| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 28, 2025 |
Hemp Acreage on the Rise U.S. industrial hemp production rose sharply in 2024, with total crop value reaching $445 million, a 40 percent increase over the previous year, according to the latest National Hemp Report. Planted acreage expanded to nearly 45,300 acres, up 64 percent from 2023. Harvested acreage climbed 60 percent to just under 32,700 acres. The growth reflects both increased planting and higher yields, which rose from 669 to 1,757 pounds per acre. Floral hemp led the surge, with production more than doubling to 20.8 million pounds, a 159 percent jump year over year. It accounted for 87 percent of the total value of hemp grown in the open, cementing its position as the industry’s economic driver. Seed hemp also posted notable gains. Its value rose nearly 500 percent to $16.9 million, the largest percentage increase among hemp categories. The report signals renewed momentum in the hemp sector, following several years of market fluctuation after legalization under the 2018 Farm Bill. ****************************************************************************** PepsiCo “Accelerating” Transition to Natural Snack Ingredients PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said the snacking giant will be “accelerating” its transition to natural ingredients amid increasing consumer demand and pressure from the White House to remove artificial colors from foods. Laguarta said during PepsiCo’s first-quarter earnings call with analysts on Thursday that the Cheetos and Doritos maker plans to have transitioned “all the portfolio into natural colors or at least provide the consumer with natural color options” in the next “couple years.” Still, he underscored that PepsiCo’s chips, puffs and other snacks are safe, and the company stands by the existing science. “Every consumer will have the opportunity to choose what they prefer,” he said. The comments come two days after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the department wants food companies to voluntarily remove or replace commonly used synthetic colors before the end of 2026. ****************************************************************************** Land O’ Lakes CEO says Trump Policies are "Real Concern" in Rural America America urgently needs immigration reform to support US farmers, Land O’ Lakes CEO Beth Ford said Thursday. Farmers want to support US President Donald Trump’s economic agenda, but there is “real concern” over possible labor shortages and lost profits. “What needs to be recognized is the necessity that [farmers] have labor available,” Ford said. “Immigration reform, broadly, is critical.” Farmers “invest in this country,” adding that the industry is over represented in the military. “At the same time, there’s real concern. The first thing they talk to me about is labor, immigration, [and] the lack of available labor for their farms.” Immigrants make up roughly half of America’s farm laborers, said Ford, who chairs the Business Roundtable’s immigration committee Commodity prices have slid in recent years and many farmers don’t turn a profit. With Trump’s tariffs now threatening exports, Ford said she is most worried about 2026, and how duties will reshape the trade landscape. ****************************************************************************** Archer Midland Daniels Closing SC Soybean Processing Plant Archer Daniels Midland said it will permanently close its soybean processing plant in Kershaw, South Carolina, later this spring as part of its cost-cutting plan announced earlier this year, according to Reuters. The Kershaw plant is the smallest of more than a dozen dedicated soy processing facilities operated by ADM in the U.S., with the capacity to crush 50K bushels per day. ADM has been cutting jobs and downsizing some operations since announcing in February that it planned to cut costs by $500M-$700M over 3-5 years. The Kershaw plant would be the first U.S. soybean processing plant to close following a multi-year, industry-wide expansion amid soaring vegetable oil demand from biofuels makers, but the biofuel sector recently has been cutting production due to uncertainty over U.S. biofuels policy and the potential for a worsening trade war. ****************************************************************************** Researchers Seeking Environmental Solutions through Cover Cropping Oklahoma State University multi-disciplinary scientists are teaming up to research how cover crops can improve the environmental impacts of cattle foraging. “We need to find new approaches to beef cattle production systems that are economically beneficial to producers, and ideally, would have an environmental benefit as well,” said Andrew Foote, associate professor in the OSU Department of Animal and Food Sciences. “The industry is making great progress with improving methane emissions from beef cattle, but we are lacking in improvement with nitrogen emissions.” Fertilizing crops and cattle foraging on harvested cropland cause methane and nitrogen emissions. “That’s why we came up with this research project to look at using legume cover crops in the summer to fix nitrogen in the soil to minimize the amount of fertilizer producers need to put down for planting wheat in the fall,” Foote said. ****************************************************************************** Egg Production Down Year-over-Year U.S. egg production totaled 8.63 billion in March 2025, a 7% drop from the same month last year. That figure includes 7.35 billion table eggs and 1.28 billion hatching eggs — with 1.18 billion from broiler-type hens and 104 million from egg-type hens. The average number of laying hens in March was 351 million, down 8% year-over-year. Despite the smaller flock, productivity slightly improved: hens produced 2,458 eggs per 100 layers, up from March 2024. As of April 1, the U.S. layer count remained at 351 million, split among 287 million producing table eggs, 60.4 million producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 4 million producing egg-type hatching eggs. The daily lay rate averaged 79.1 eggs per 100 layers, a slight dip from a year earlier. Meanwhile, 60.7 million egg-type chicks hatched in March — up 11% from March 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 28, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Weekly Crop Progress at 3 p.m. CDT Weather A low-pressure center will work from the Northern Plains through the Upper Midwest on Monday. Heavy rain in the Dakotas will move through the Upper Midwest and the setup looks pretty good for a major severe weather outbreak with all hazards being possible. Additional thunderstorms will develop south through the Southern Plains with potential for hail and heavy rainfall as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 25, 2025 |
Off-Farm Income Keeping Some Operations Afloat For most U.S. farm households, income from off-farm jobs like teaching, driving a bus, or managing a bank branch helps keep an operation running. In 2023, an AFBF Market Intel Report says 23 percent of farm household income for farm families comes from farming itself, which means 77 percent of the income comes from other sources. In 2023, 96 percent of farm operators (the principal operator and their spouse) earned money from off-farm sources. About 72 percent of the off-farm income in recent years has come from earned sources like wages and salaries (61 percent) and non-farm business income (11 percent). The other 28 percent came from unearned sources like Social Security, veteran’s benefits, pensions, dividends, and interest. The smaller the farm, the more dependent on off-farm employment. Among farms with less than $100,000 in gross sales, over 60 percent of those operators worked at least one day off the farm. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Industry Voluntarily Removing Artificial Colors From School Lunches Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins applauded the International Dairy Foods Association announcement for its “IDFA Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment.” It’s a voluntary, proactive pledge to eliminate Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 in milk, cheese, and yogurt products sold to K-12 schools for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs beginning during the 2026-2027 school year. Rollins said America’s dairy farmers and milk processors have always led the way in providing our families and schoolchildren with healthy, nutritious, and delicious milk products. “While I look forward to getting whole milk back into our schools, this announcement shows how the dairy industry is voluntarily driving change and giving consumers what they want, without government mandates,” she said. “I thank IDFA and the dairy industry for leading the way and look forward to other industries working together to Make America Healthy Again.” *********************************************************************************** Registration for the Public Land Council’s Annual Meeting Registration is open for the Public Land Council’s 57th annual meeting to be held in Flagstaff, Arizona, from September 16-18, 2025. “The Annual Meeting is when we come together as an industry to plan our advocacy efforts for the upcoming year, hammer out grassroots policies, and discuss upcoming rulemaking and legislative priorities,” says PLC President Tim Canterbury. “As federal lands ranchers, we have the opportunity to modernize antiquated laws like the Endangered Species Act, as well as cut government red tape getting in the way of meaningful, long-term planning for land health.” He also said being involved in the conversation is the best way to protect Western livestock production and its way of life. PLC is the only national group that defends the rights and interests of cattle and sheep producers who utilize federal lands and grazing permits as part of their operations. “No better time than now,” Canterbury added. ********************************************************************************** “Farmers Under Stress” Webinar Aimed at Ag Professionals An upcoming Penn State Extension webinar titled “Communicating with Farmers Under Stress” is aimed at helping participants learn the signs of stress and how to help. The webinar will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Eastern Time on May 15, 2025. The program is designed for ag 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 teach participants to build awareness of the stressors affecting farmers and their families. The webinar will help attendees recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety and warning signs of suicide. Participants will learn to assess, approach, and assist farmers who are showing changes in their mental health. The webinar is free, but attendees must register before the start to get the access link. For information, go to extension.psu.edu. *********************************************************************************** Highest Ethanol Production in Three Weeks Ethanol output jumped to the highest level in three weeks, and inventories dropped during the seven days ending on April 18. Data from the Energy Information Administration says production rose to an average of 1.033 million barrels a day. That’s up from 1.012 million barrels the week prior and the highest since March 28. The Midwest produces the most ethanol in the country, and output rose to 976,000 barrels a day from 955,000 barrels the previous week, also the highest in three weeks. Gulf Coast production increased to 25,000 barrels a day, up from 24,000 barrels a week earlier. That was all the gains, as East Coast output was unchanged for the third straight week at 12,000 barrels a day. Rocky Mountain production fell by 1,000 barrels a day to 10,000 barrels on average, and West Coast output dropped by the same amount to 9,000 barrels a day. *********************************************************************************** 12 States Sue Administration Over Tariffs A dozen states have sued the Trump administration in the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York to stop its tariff policy, claiming it is unlawful and has brought chaos to the American economy. Yahoo says the lawsuit challenges Trump’s claim that he could arbitrarily impose tariffs based on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The suit asks the court to declare the tariffs to be illegal and to block government agencies and its officers from enforcing them. The 12 states suing the administration include Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Vermont. The suit says Trump’s policy has been subject to his “whims rather than the exercise of lawful authority.” The suit claims only Congress, not the president, has the power to impose tariffs, and the president can only invoke the IEEPA when the emergency presents an “unusual and extraordinary threat” from abroad.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 25, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets Consumer sentiment at 9 a.m. CDT Food Price Outlook at 10 a.m. CDT CFTC Commitments of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather An active weather week ends with more showers and thunderstorms with a system moving through the Midwest on Friday. Widespread showers and thunderstorms are forecast from the Southern Plains into the Northeast. A briefly quiet period is setting up behind the system across the North-Central U.S., but will not last long.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 24, 2025 |
Death Taxes Threaten Farm Families Many provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are set to expire this year. The American Farm Bureau says that adds a big task to the Congressional to-do list: updating the tax code. Many of those expiring provisions provide important relief for farm families. AFBF Associate Economist Samantha Ayoub (aye-OOB) says while reductions in the corporate income tax rates were made permanent in 2017, income tax cuts for individuals began to phase out in 2022, with the biggest tax increases are coming with expirations at the end of this year. For some farm families, grieving the loss of a loved one comes with an additional burden, that being a hefty tax on everything their family member left to them. Without an act of Congress, the estate tax exemption will drop by 50 percent to $7.61 million on January 1, 2026, putting the future of thousands of family farms at risk. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Farmers Respond to Disaster Assistance USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that $340.6 million in disaster assistance is available to help farmers and rural communities affected by natural disasters. The American Soybean Association is pleased that the funding has become available and applauds the administration for following through on its promise to help the many farmers and others who’ve been in need following extraordinary circumstances. “We appreciate the administration for seeing these devastating circumstances and coming to the aid of farmers and rural communities,” says Caleb Ragland, president of the American Soybean Association and a soy farmer from Kentucky. “When natural disasters strike, we have very little recourse to protect our livelihoods.” He also says this funding will help many people who are trying to rebuild their homes and businesses and hopefully restore some normalcy after enduring hurricanes, floods, and fires and the outcomes of these disasters. ASA thanks the USDA for its Rural Development Disaster Assistance Package *********************************************************************************** Argentina Corn Production Expected to Jump The USDA’s attaché office in Buenos Aires is predicting corn exports from Argentina will climb to the third-highest level on record and will surge higher in the 2025-2026 marketing year. Shipments of corn will total 37 million metric tons in the upcoming season, which is an increase from 34 million tons during the previous year. The main destinations for corn exports from the South American country are Vietnam, Peru, Malaysia, South Korea, Chile, and Saudi Arabia. Argentina’s production will surge to 54 million metric tons, up from 49 million tons last year, which, if realized, would be the country’s fourth-largest crop on record. The planted area will rise almost 13 percent to 17.8 million acres. “Given current market conditions, farmers returns are projected better for corn than soybeans, similar to the combination of wheat followed by second soybeans on the same field in Argentina’s core production area,” USDA said. ********************************************************************************** Summit Trying to Salvage Pipeline in South Dakota Summit Carbon Solutions faces a critical decision from regulators on April 22. The Des Moines Register says the company may have found a way to salvage its planned carbon capture pipeline in South Dakota if it’s given a chance to do so. Summit’s solution would avoid a legal or political battle against a new law that bars the company from using eminent domain to obtain the land easements it needs to build the pipeline. The company filing with the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission says if it's given enough time, it can plan out a route for its $9 million carbon capture pipeline. It would make a plan to eliminate pipeline segments that connect the ethanol plants where there is significant landowner opposition. “By reducing the number of participating plants, eliminating those more problematic line segments, and thereby minimizing the project’s footprint, we can reduce the overall number of opposed landowners,” the filing said. *********************************************************************************** March Milk Production Up One Percent Milk production in the 24 major milk-producing states during March totaled 19 billion pounds, up one percent from March 2024. February revised production, at 17 billion pounds, was down 2.4 percent from February 2024. The February revision represented an increase of 26 million pounds from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major states averaged 2,125 pounds for March, four pounds above March 2024. The number of milk cows on the farms in those states was 8.96 million head, 72,000 head more than in March 2024 and 9,000 above February 2025. Milk production in the United States during the January-March quarter totaled 56.7 billion pounds, down 0.3 percent from the same quarter in 2024. The average number of milk cows in the U.S. during the quarter was 9.4 million head, 36,000 head more than the October-December quarter and 58,000 head more than the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** Global Cotton Forecast at a Seven-Year High The USDA’s cotton projections for 2024-2025 forecast global cotton production at 120.9 million bales, down slightly month-over-month but a seven percent increase from 2023-2024. It’s also the highest total since 2017-2018. The major cotton-producing countries are projected to be mixed in 2024-2025, as declines in India and Pakistan are offset by larger year-over-year increases in China, Brazil, the United States, and Australia. Global mill use is projected to increase slightly in 2024-2025 to 116 million bales, up 1.2 million bales or 1.1 percent from the previous year. Among the top spinning countries, however, only China is projected lower this season. World production in 2024-2025 exceeds the mill use estimate, with global ending stocks rising nearly seven percent. World cotton stocks are projected at 78.9 million bales, the second-highest level since the 2015-2016 marketing year. World imports are forecast at 42.4 million bales this season, down four percent from 2023-2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 24, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CDT Weather As has been the case the last couple of days, two stalled fronts, one north and one south, continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms for Thursday. A low-pressure system will form along the northern front and increase the coverage across the Central Plains and Iowa for today and tonight. Some areas of severe weather will be possible in the southwestern Plains again as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 23, 2025 |
Farm Bankruptcies Climbing in 2025 Farm bankruptcies grew 55 percent from 2023 to 2024 and are trending even higher in 2025. Farmers are continuing to struggle with low prices for their agricultural commodities and the high costs of inputs needed to grow those crops. Bloomberg says unpredictable tariffs, immigration overhauls, federal programs being cut, and frozen USDA funding are now part of the challenges farmers face as they look for financial assistance. The Federal Reserve Bank in Chicago says the share of the district’s farm loan portfolio assessed as having “major or severe” repayment problems was 4.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, the highest point it reached since late in 2020. The Kansas City Fed said at the end of March that as farm debt grew and conditions in the farm economy deteriorated, delinquency rates increased modestly from historic lows. The American Farmland Owner says Iowa leads all other states with 12 bankruptcies this year. *********************************************************************************** USGC: Value of Ag Exports Passes $28 Billion The U.S. Grains Council updated its Value of Grains Exports study with the latest available information about the financial benefits of ag exports to communities around the country. “The value of export markets for the U.S. agricultural industry cannot be understated and by providing this resource for U.S. producers, we hope to demonstrate the importance of trade worldwide,” says Bryan Jernigan, USGC director of communications. “Anyone can look at this information to better understand how exports from their state contribute to overall, top-level trade numbers that benefit the U.S. economy.” Results from the study, jointly commissioned by the National Corn Growers Association, show that the $28.96 billion in grain and grain products exported indirectly supported a total economic output of $86.2 billion in 2021. The number of jobs linked directly or indirectly to grain exports is approximately 346,400. For every dollar grain exports generate, it supports $2.98 in business sales. *********************************************************************************** NSP Looking for Board of Director Candidates National Sorghum Producers has opened applications for its 2025 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. “We often hear that getting involved is the most important thing we can do to ensure tomorrow for our industry and the next generation,” says NSP Chair Amy France. “In today’s uncertainty, there are no truer words.” She also says NSP is excited to help drive effective policy and promote, advocate for, and defend the sorghum industry. “We encourage and welcome all who have a passion for sorghum, agriculture, and the future of our family farms to apply,” France added. Board members are instrumental in advancing policies and building relationships that benefit sorghum farmers and the industry. Applications are due on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, by 5 p.m. Central Time. For more information, go to SorghumGrowers.com. ********************************************************************************** 2025 Stockmanship & Stewardship Registration is Open Registration is open for three Stockmanship & Stewardship Events taking place this summer. Stockmanship & Stewardship is an educational experience for cattle producers, featuring low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance educational sessions, facility design sessions, and industry updates. The events take place in Watertown, South Dakota, June 26-28; Canyon, Texas, August 13-14; and September 4-6 in Springfield, Missouri. During each event, producers can get BQA certified, network with other cattle producers, participate in hands-on demonstrations led by industry experts, and learn innovative handling techniques. Topics like biosecurity and the Secure Beef Supply will be among several subjects covered during the event, with the Texas program feedyard-focused and available in Spanish. NCBA CEO Collin Woodall will be the keynote speaker at all three events. “Cattle handling and stockmanship are core components of BQA,” says Dr. Ron Gill, Texas AgriLife extension specialist. “Animal handling and care directly connect to farm profitability.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Delivers Immediate Disaster Assistance Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins has announced $340.6 million in USDA disaster assistance to deliver relief to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities impacted by natural disasters that have caused devastation across the country. Secretary Rollins is delivering critical aid through the USDA Disaster Assistance Fund to provide immediate relief to communities that have waited too long for the assistance they need. “Our heart goes out to the families across our great country who have lost loved ones, homes, businesses, and livelihoods,” Rollins said. “USDA is ensuring we are doing everything we can to support state and local efforts to rebuild these communities to be even stronger than before.” The secretary made the announcement in North Dakota, where USDA is delivering more than $5 million to help rebuild electric infrastructure following damage from severe storms and wildfires. The Disaster Assistance Fund provides relief directly to rural families who need recovery help. *********************************************************************************** March Egg Production Down Seven Percent U.S. egg production totaled 8.63 billion during March 2025, down seven percent from last year. Production included 7.35 billion table eggs and 1.28 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.18 billion were broiler-type and 104 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during March totaled 351 million, down eight percent from last year. March egg production per 100 layers was 2,458 eggs, up slightly from March 2024. Total layers in the U.S. on April 1, 2025, totaled 351 million, down eight percent from last year. The 351 million consisted of 287 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 60.4 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and four million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of lay per day on April 1 averaged 79.1 eggs per 100 layers, down slightly from April 1, 2024. Egg-type chicks hatched during March totaled 60.7 million, up 11 percent from March 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 23, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets EIA Petroleum Status report including weekly ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Annual Livestock Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A couple of fronts have stalled out in the country for Wednesday, both of which should produce areas of showers and thunderstorms. One from the Upper Midwest back to the Central Plains and another across the South. This brings another round of potential rainfall to areas that need it in the Plains and Southeast.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 22, 2025 |
USTR Takes Action to Restore American Shipbuilding The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative took targeted action to restore American shipbuilding and address China’s unreasonable acts, policies, and practices to dominate maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. These actions come after a year-long Section 301 investigation. “Ships and shipping are vital to American economic security and the free flow of commerce,” says USTR Jamieson Greer. “Our actions here will begin to reverse Chinese dominance, address threats to the U.S. supply chain, and send a demand signal for U.S.-built ships.” The actions will occur in two phases. For the first 180 days, applicable fees will be set at $0. After that, fees on vessel owners and operators of China-based vessels on net tonnage per U.S. voyage will increase exponentially over the following years. Fees on operators of Chinese-built ships based on net tonnage or containers will increase incrementally in the following years. Actions also include incentivizing U.S.-built liquefied natural gas vessels. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups React to USTR Shipping Announcement The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office released its final actions related to Section 301 fees on Chinese-made vessels arriving at American ports, making significant changes from the initially proposed actions. “Our concern all along has been that any fees placed on Chinese vessels could be passed on to American farmers who rely on those ships to export corn,” says National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman, Jr. “While we are still working to understand how this new version will impact the corn industry, we believe this final action is more workable than the initial deal.” The U.S. Grains Council says the notice from USTR will allow most U.S. grain and co-product exports to continue without added costs on Chinese-built but not Chinese-operated bulk vessels. “After a year-long investigation, this decision was made with the best interest of U.S. grain producers in mind,” says Ryan LeGrand, USGC President and CEO. *********************************************************************************** Important Crop Deadlines Drawing Closer The USDA reminds agricultural producers that the final date to apply for or make changes to their existing crop insurance coverage is quickly approaching for summer planted crops, annual forage, and forage seeding. Sales closing dates vary by crop, but the next major sales closing dates are May 1, July 15, and July 31. Producers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agents soon to learn specific details for the 2025 crop year. Crop insurance decisions must be made on or before the applicable sales closing date. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency lists sales closing dates in the Actuarial Information Brower under the “Dates” tab. Producers can also access the RMA Map Viewer tool to visualize the insurance program date choices for acreage reporting, cancellation, contract change, earliest planting, end of insurance, end of the late planting period, final planting, premium billing, production reporting, and other types of important information. ********************************************************************************** Court Affirms Mexican Tomato Dumping in the U.S. The Court of International Trade confirmed findings from the Department of Commerce that Mexican companies dumped tomatoes into the U.S. market at significant margins, with some as high as 273 percent. Most other companies assigned a dumping margin of 17 percent. Robert Guenther, executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange, responded to the ruling. “We look forward to the Department of Commerce imposing antidumping duties under U.S. law at the Court-approved levels as soon as the suspension agreement terminates on July 14,” Guenther said. The member companies of the Florida Tomato Exchange produce over 90 percent of the tomatoes grown in Florida and are among the largest producers of tomatoes in California, Georgia, New Jersey, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. FTE member companies also produce approximately 50 percent of the fresh-market tomatoes grown in the U.S. The Court of International Trade is based in New York City. *********************************************************************************** Hemp Planted Acreage Jumps 64 Percent The value of U.S. industrial hemp production reached $445 million in 2024, representing a 40 percent increase over the prior year. That’s according to the National Hemp Report that came out last week. Total planted area for hemp jumped to almost 45,300 acres, 64 percent higher than in 2023, with harvested area also rising to just under 32,700 acres. Floral hemp has emerged as the industry’s driving force, with production more than doubling to 20.8 million pounds, a 159 percent increase over the previous year. Feed and Grain Dot Com says both acreage and yield contributed to the growth. Harvested area was up 60 percent, and per-acre yields climbed to 669 pounds to reach 1,757 pounds per acre. The report said floral hemp production accounted for 87 percent of the total value of hemp grown in the open. Seed hemp showed the most dramatic increase in value, surging almost 500 percent to $16.9 million. *********************************************************************************** Secure Sheep and Wool Supply Plan Workshops are Scheduled In the first three months of 2025, three European Union countries experienced outbreaks of Foot-and-Mouth disease, which illustrated the importance for livestock producers to be prepared. Sheep producers have two in-person opportunities in the coming months to learn more about how the American Sheep Industry Association’s Secure Sheep and Wool Supply Plan can help them prepare for a possible outbreak in the U.S. Trainings are scheduled in Iowa on May 9 and Nevada on June 5 as part of the USDA’s National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program Grant secured by the American Sheep Industry Association. In all, 11 states have had or will host similar training opportunities in 2025 thanks to the grant. “Stopping disease transmission from farm to farm and animal to animal is the first step in protecting your animals from diseases,” says Carolyn Ihde (EYE-dee), small ruminant specialist at the Iowa State Extension Service.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 22, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Milk Production at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A front is stalling across the South and will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday, especially in the afternoon and evening. Another system is spinning on the Canadian border with North Dakota. Showers are heavier to the north, which includes some snow. Isolated showers will develop with this system in the North-Central U.S. as well. Both of those features will combine to produce showers and thunderstorms across the Southern Plains and could create some severe weather, mostly in the form of large hail and damaging winds.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 21, 2025 |
White House Budget Plan Proposes Local FSA, NRCS Office Closures The Trump administration is planning to severely scale back or outright eliminate funding for many programs across the Agriculture Department, according to White House documents obtained, as it slashes workers and closes offices at the local level. The ‘passback’ document from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposing fiscal 2026 funding levels would gut research and conservation efforts, trim program budgets nearly across the board, and cut staff as part of what OMB called many difficult decisions that were necessary to reach the proposed spending level. In the document, the OMB directed USDA to develop plans to consolidate its local, county-based offices around the country into state committees that would service the FSA, NRCS, and Rural Development. Ironically, these are the people that are directly where the farmers are. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins last month called those agencies, along with the Risk Management Agency, the most farmer-facing mission area at USDA, which producers rely on every day. ****************************************************************************** Can Trump Solve the Farm Labor Crisis Before Harvest? Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said easing restrictions for noncitizen farmworkers is a top priority, as labor shortages continue to strain farmers across the U.S. Changes to the H-2A visa program and new legal pathways could offer relief soon. The Trump administration is working to finalize more lenient guidelines for noncitizen farmworkers by harvest season. She said it’s an issue she’s had many long conversations with the president about over the years. There is zero doubt that labor is a massive issue for probably the large majority of our agriculture industry, our farmers and our ranchers. Her remarks came just days after President Donald Trump told reporters during a Cabinet meeting that he may ease immigration restrictions for farm laborers. Under his plan, farm and hotel workers would leave the country and then return legally with the backing of their U.S. employer. ****************************************************************************** Ocean Rates See Uptick Amid Tariff Turmoil Ocean container rates from Asia to North America saw a slight uptick last week as the Trump administration’s tariff-driven trade strategy roils global markets, Freightos reported Wednesday. Rates from Asia to the U.S. West Coast were up 10% week over week to $2,465 per forty-foot equivalent unit, per an April 16 market update. Rates to the East Coast went up 3% to $3,647 per FEU. As shippers navigate trade uncertainty, a pullback in China-to-U.S. volumes, paired with an increase in demand from other Asia trade lanes, may reflect “diverging rates on the port-pair level,” according to Freightos. U.S. shippers have been frontloading goods since November to get ahead of tariffs. The administration’s plans to roll out country-specific reciprocal tariffs April 9 prompted another rush to move cargo before the new duties went into effect. ****************************************************************************** Live Animal Gifts Spark Health Concerns as Easter Nears Gifting live animals like chicks, ducklings and bunnies during Easter remains a cherished tradition, but public health officials and animal welfare advocates warn of significant risks. Salmonella outbreaks, animal abandonment, and ecological harm continue to plague this practice, prompting calls for safer alternatives like toys or candy. In 2024, the CDC reported 470 Salmonella cases linked to backyard poultry across 48 states, with 125 hospitalizations and one death. Investigations identified contact with live poultry as the primary source. Salmonella spreads through handling birds or their environments, even without direct contact. Infants, young children, seniors, and immuno-compromised individuals face the highest risk of severe illness, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps lasting up to seven days. Severe cases may require hospitalization. Food and food surfaces can become contaminated with bacteria from live animals if strict hygiene is not practiced. Animal welfare issues are significant. ****************************************************************************** Japanese Researchers Announce Breakthrough in Fake Meat Production Researchers in Japan have produced nugget-sized chunks of chicken using animal cells, signaling a breakthrough in lab-grown food production. Lab-grown or cell-cultivated meat has been around for over a decade, offering an animal-based protein option that does not derive from slaughtered animals. Previous attempts at lab-grown chicken have been made with cells taken from living animals to create chicken strips less than 1 millimeter thick that are then bound together. Creating thicker portions of meat is difficult without blood vessels, which help oxygen and nutrients keep tissue alive and healthy. Scientists at the University of Tokyo invented a process that mimics blood vessels, therefore enabling tissues to grow stronger, and produced a bite-sized chunk of chicken at 10 grams that indicates improved texture. The team believes they could build larger chunks of meat using the same process—and even create functional organs. ****************************************************************************** UK Bans EU Cheese and Meat to Stop Disease Spreading The UK government has brought in a temporary ban on holidaymakers bringing in cheese and meat products from the EU in a bid to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD). Travellers have not been allowed to bring back items such as cured meat and cheese, including in sandwiches, since Saturday due to the growing outbreak on the continent. The restrictions apply regardless of whether the goods are packed or packaged, or bought from duty free. It follows an earlier ban of similar products from Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria after rising cases of the cattle disease in those countries. FMD is a highly infectious virus that causes blisters inside an animal's mouth and under their hooves, and can cause lameness and problems feeding. It causes no risk to humans and there are currently no cases of foot-and-mouth disease in the UK.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 21, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Bioenergy Statistics at 1 p.m. CDT Chicken and Eggs Report at 2 p.m. CDT Crop Progress Report at 3 p.m. CDT Weather A system is exiting the Midwest Monday morning, shifting into Ontario. The front of the system is getting left behind from the eastern Midwest down to east Texas where showers will continue throughout the day. Another system will move into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies with scattered showers as well. This is just part of a very busy week of weather across the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 17, 2025 |
Lawsuit Filed on Trump Tariffs The Liberty Justice Center filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s authority to unilaterally issue the “Liberation Day” tariffs, which the Center says are devastating small businesses across the country. The lawsuit argues that the administration has no authority to issue across-the-board worldwide tariffs without congressional approval. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. Court of International Trade, highlights the unprecedented nature of the tariffs, including a global ten percent tariff on almost all imports and additional higher tariffs on other countries based on foreign trade barriers. The President invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to justify the Liberation Day tariffs, as well as duties on Mexico, Canada, and China. The Complaint says the IEEPA doesn’t authorize the President to impose across-the-board tariffs and doesn’t actually authorize tariffs at all. “No one person should have the power to impose taxes that have such vast consequences,” says Jeffrey Schwab of the Liberty Justice Center. *********************************************************************************** Mexico Confident It Can Renew a Tomato Agreement with the U.S. The Mexican government said it will begin talks with the U.S. to renew a bilateral agreement on Mexico’s tomato exports. The U.S. government announced it is pulling out of the agreement. The U.S. pullout would mean a 21 percent tariff will be put in place on Mexican tomato imports on July 14. Reuters reported the U.S. Commerce Department says the agreement hasn’t protected domestic tomato growers in the U.S. market. The agreement regulates tomato imports from Mexico into the U.S., and the goal was to help U.S. producers compete on a level playing field. The agreement went into effect in 1996 and was renewed in 2019 to stave off an anti-dumping investigation and end a tariff dispute. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum says that Mexican tomatoes aren’t replaceable by any other country’s exports in terms of quality or quantity. She also says that, without the pact, U.S. consumers would pay more for their tomatoes. *********************************************************************************** Bayer May Stop Producing Glyphosate Bayer says it may stop producing glyphosate, the world’s most popular weedkiller unless it can get court protection against lawsuits blaming the herbicide for causing cancer. The Wall Street Journal says Bayer currently produces about 40 percent of the world’s glyphosate needs, which farmers use to kill weeds that threaten their crops. Over the last ten years, the herbicide has also caught Bayer up in a number of lawsuits. In early March, Bayer told farmers, suppliers, and retailers that it may have to stop selling Roundup, which would force U.S. farmers to rely on imported glyphosate from China. “We’re pretty much reaching the end of our road,” Bayer Chief Executive Bill Anderson told the Journal. “We’re not talking years but months instead.” The USDA points out that more than 90 percent of soybeans, corn, and cotton crops planted in the U.S. are genetically modified to withstand the glyphosate-based weedkiller. ********************************************************************************** Bill to Delist Wolves from ESA Listing Advances A bill is moving through the House of Representatives that would delist wolves from the Endangered Species Act, and it just passed out of a key committee in the House. The bill is sponsored by Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin’s Seventh District and gained approval from the House Natural Resources Committee. Tiffany introduced a similar bill last year but says he is much more confident about its chances of passing this year now that Republicans control the House, Senate, and the presidency. The bill is called the “Pet and Livestock Protection Acy” and will now head to the full House for a vote. Tiffany said in a press release that he’s excited about clearing the first hurdle in getting it before the House. Bill supporters include several of America’s leading agricultural groups and individuals, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Public Land Council, and others. *********************************************************************************** White House Budget Proposes FSA, NRCS Closures Reports continue to say the Trump administration is planning to severely scale back or end all funding for many of the key programs in the Agriculture Department. That’s according to White House documents obtained by Government Executive, which reports that the administration wants to cut workers and whole offices at the local level. A document from the Office of Management and Budget proposes fiscal 2026 funding levels that would gut research and conservation efforts and trim almost all program budgets across the board. OMB says many difficult decisions will become necessary to reach that proposed spending level for the upcoming fiscal year. The Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and USDA’s Rural Development employ almost 20,000 workers between them. One official who helps oversee the agencies said the proposed changes to the budget would lead to office closures at the local level and affect people face-to-face with farmers. *********************************************************************************** How Many Ag and Food Careers Are There? The 2025 Feeding the Economy Report says over 47 million people in the U.S. work in the agricultural and food industries. That is 29 percent of the U.S. population, and that number may be surprising to people, depending on where they live. One interesting thing about agriculture is the sheer number of jobs that aren’t considered “ag” careers, which play a role in producing food and getting it to consumers. For example, ag business careers include everything from lawyers to human resources to office managers. There are careers in environmental services and natural resources, including careers like fisheries workers, ecologists, ethanol producers, and aquaculture workers. Ag mechanics are another key part of ag careers and include truck drivers, service techs, livestock haulers, and others. Food science is another area that includes careers like produce inspectors, food safety managers, dietitians, and many more. There are also many careers in animal and plant science.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 17, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Housing starts and Building permits at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Cattle on Feed Report at 2 p.m. CDT Weekly Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A low-pressure system is moving through the Plains and Upper Midwest Thursday which could provide some severe thunderstorms to southern Minnesota, Iowa, northern Missouri, and eastern Nebraska during the afternoon and evening. Some of the stronger storms that develop could produce damaging hail, strong straight-line winds, and a few isolated tornadoes.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 16, 2025 |
CoBank: Tariffs Compounding Economic Anxiety A new report from CoBank says rapidly worsening expectations about everything from inflation to personal income to business conditions and labor supplies are elevating economic concerns. The question of whether the declining expectations will translate into slower spending and tightening profit margins will likely come into view by late June. Uncertainty over trade and biofuel policy pulled corn, soybean, and wheat prices down last quarter despite the weaker U.S. dollar. Trade concerns weighed heaviest on wheat as world buyers have multiple suppliers available. Crop production expenses are expected to continue trending lower, but they remain elevated in relation to lower commodity prices. Also, renewable diesel and biodiesel production has scaled back to find stability in the absence of the blender’s tax credit, pushing prices above petroleum. Record high prices for beef cattle remain across the sector despite continuing herd liquidation. The U.S. pork sector is positioned for moderate growth this year. *********************************************************************************** Commerce Department to Reinstate Tariffs on Mexican Tomatoes The U.S. Department of Commerce intends to withdraw from the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico. Termination of the agreement will be in 90 days. The Commerce Department says the agreement failed to protect U.S. tomato growers from unfairly priced Mexican imports. Commerce has been flooded with comments from American producers urging the agreement’s termination. This action will allow U.S. growers to compete fairly in the marketplace. When the agreement terminates, the Commerce Department will institute an anti-dumping duty order on July 14, 2025, resulting in duties of 21 percent on most imports of tomatoes from Mexico. Commerce maintains 734 antidumping and countervailing duty orders, which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade. Antidumping and countervailing duty orders provide American businesses and workers with a mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of the unfair pricing of imports into the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Reorganized Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the cancelation of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. Following a thorough line-by-line review of each of the Biden-era partnerships, it became clear that the majority of these projects had sky-high administration fees, which in many instances provided less than half of the federal funding directly to farmers. Select projects may continue if it is demonstrated that a significant amount of the federal funds awarded will go to farmers. USDA says it’s reformed and overhauled the Biden-era Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Initiative into the Advancing Markets for Producers Initiative. “The Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities initiative was largely built to advance the green new scam at the benefit of NGOs and not American farmers,” Rollins said. “Farmers’ concerns took a back seat during the Biden administration, and we are correcting the mistakes and redirecting our efforts to set our farmers up for unprecedented prosperity.” ********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Expand Access to Meat and Poultry Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), a member of the Senate Ag Committee, joined Mike Rounds (R-SD) in reintroducing the “New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act.” The bipartisan legislation would allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection Programs to be sold across state lines. Currently, meat and poultry products inspected by those state programs are limited to markets within the same state, even though inspection at a state facility meets or exceeds federal inspection standards. More than half the states - 29, in total - have their own inspection programs. “Iowa produces some of the best meat and poultry in the world, and high-quality products that have already passed a rigorous inspection process shouldn’t require any extra inspection to sell across state lines,” Grassley said. “Our commonsense legislation would remove this regulatory overreach and provide consumers with more options at their local meat counter.” *********************************************************************************** BLM May Face More Lawsuits The Interior Department may see more lawsuits after announcing it would no longer require the Bureau of Land Management to create an environmental impact statement for more than 3,200 oil and gas leases in seven states. The Biden administration started work on the review four days before President Trump took office in January. E and E News says the review was the “culmination” of almost a decade’s worth of lawsuits on federal leases that date back to the Obama administration. The leases cover 3.5 million acres across Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. The Center for Biological Diversity says the work done by the Bureau to guard against the environmental effects of oil and gas production on federal lands has been “weak.” Jeremy Nichols, a senior advocate for the Center, says the Interior Department’s decision to walk back the environmental impact statement is likely illegal. *********************************************************************************** Corn and Wheat Inspections Climb Higher The USDA says inspections of corn and wheat were higher, while soybean assessments declined during the week ending on April 10. Corn inspections rose week to week, increasing to 1.83 million metric tons, up from 1.61 million tons a week earlier and 1.36 million during the same week last year. Examinations for overseas delivery rose to 604,000 metric tons from just over 355,000 tons the prior week and 620,000 at the same point last year. Soybean inspections dropped to 546,300 metric tons from 814,300 tons the previous week. That’s higher than the 447,550 tons assessed during the same week in 2024. Wheat inspections since the start of the marketing year are now at 18.3 million metric tons, up from 16 million at this point a year ago. Since the start of their respective marketing years, USDA has inspected 37.5 million metric tons of corn and 42.1 million metric tons of soybeans.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 16, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Retail Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT U.S. Industrial Production and Capacity at 8:15 a.m. CDT Home builder confidence at 9 a.m. CDT EIA Petroleum Status Report including weekly ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Fed Chair Jerome Powell Press Conference at 12:30 a.m. CDT ERS Livestock Outlooks at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A system will be developing across the West Wednesday but much of the Central U.S. will remain dry for one more day before the system enters the Plains on Thursday, providing a risk for severe thunderstorms in the north.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 15, 2025 |
FCS Provides Quarterly Ag Economy Update The Farm Credit System says the U.S. economy entered 2025 with key indicators in favorable positions. Expectations for first quarter growth have been reduced, however, by weaker personal consumption, higher imports, and uncertainty around changes in global trade. FCS says the U.S. farm sector enters the uncertain trade environment and spring planting season with strong balance sheets and favorable liquidity. Farm income in early 2025 is being supported by payments to crop producers authorized under the American Relief Act as well as generally favorable returns for livestock producers. But, extended periods of lower commodity prices, particularly for cash grains and tree nuts, are evidence of increasing risk. Negative retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural products will depend on tariff levels and duration and present additional uncertainty for the sector. Farmland values are showing signs of weakness and increased volatility, particularly for lower-quality land and in regions producing the commodities currently at weaker prices. *********************************************************************************** Ag Retailers Need Predictable Trade Policy The Agricultural Retailers Association understands the desire of the Trump administration to stop unfair trading practices in the global marketplace that lead to artificial trade imbalances. Some of the countries singled out by the White House have lengthy patterns of putting their proverbial thumbs on the scale to the disadvantage of U.S. producers and exporters. The ARA says global supply chains can’t adjust overnight, nor can they function in an unpredictable tariff environment. It takes years to build new production capacity anywhere in the world. Many of the products and ingredients that are used in agricultural inputs in the U.S. are only available in commercial quantities from offshore sources. Immediate-effect tariffs that allow no adjustment period to complete current contracts and arrange for new supply sources will only result in higher costs and less product availability for U.S. farmers in the short term. Damage to export relationships can also be long-lasting. *********************************************************************************** Thousands Accept Buyouts at USDA Thousands of workers have accepted the Trump administration’s buyout offers at the USDA. E & E News says employees who’ve seen the internal numbers at USDA say the count has reached 3,100 at the Forest Service, 1,200 at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and possibly up to 12,000 people through the entire agency. That’s over 10 percent of the department’s 100,000 employees. The buyouts are deferred resignations with paid leave through September and are said to be preludes to firings expected to hit USDA in the weeks ahead. An employee at the Natural Resources Conservation Service who took the buyout offer said the numbers are subject to change if workers clicked on the offer but don’t sign the resignation agreement. Another report says the USDA is planning to relocate a sizable number of employees that it doesn’t lay off to one of three locations around the country. ********************************************************************************** Governors Ask EPA for More Renewable Fuels Four state governors sent a letter to Lee Zeldin, administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, asking him to set higher Renewable Volume Obligation levels. “Over the past several years, the biofuels industry made significant investments to expand domestic production capacity and strengthen feedstock supply,” the governors wrote. “Unfortunately, the Renewable Volume Obligation levels set by the previous administration failed to reflect that growth.” Because of the inadequate levels, an increasing number of biofuel producers have been forced to slow or cease operations, costing rural communities jobs and weakening key markets for American farmers. The governors asked the EPA to establish a 2026 RVO of no less than 15 billion gallons for conventional ethanol and 5.25 billion gallons for biomass-based diesel. These higher volumes would be reflective of the growth within the U.S. biofuels industry and would create long-term stability. Governors from South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska signed the letter. *********************************************************************************** Breakthrough in Water Dispute Between the U.S. and Mexico USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins is turning up the heat on Mexico over a growing water crisis squeezing farmers struggling with drought in south Texas. She said late last week that high-level negotiations with Mexican officials may be about to lead to a breakthrough. Rollins said a post from President Trump’s account on Truth Social about Mexico “stealing our farmers’ water” led to a quick phone call from Mexican officials to schedule talks on the subject. The President led his post with “Mexico owes Texas 1.3 million acre-feet of water under the 1944 Water Treaty, but Mexico is unfortunately violating their treaty obligation.” The treaty requires Mexico to send 1.75 million acre-feet of water to the United States every five years from tributaries that feed the Rio Grande. Rollins spoke about the pending discussions as frustration continued to build over Mexico falling short on its water deliveries under the 1944 Water Treaty. *********************************************************************************** Dems Want Information on How Tariffs Affect Farmers Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and 18 colleagues are asking U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for information on how the Administration’s tariff taxes will impact farmers across the U.S. “We write with great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers,” the senators wrote. “Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning.” They also said farm organizations and economists have pointed out for months that key trading partners will continue retaliating against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs. “The direct economic impact and uncertainty on America’s farmers stand to change the future of agricultural trade relationships for generations,” the letter added. “Farmers are already facing tighter margins resulting from declining commodity prices and rapidly increasing input costs.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 15, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Import and Export Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weather Light rain and snow showers will linger in the Great Lakes and Eastern Midwest Tuesday on the back side of a system that's moving into the Northeast. High pressure across the Plains and Western Midwest will lead to mostly dry conditions.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 14, 2025 |
China Raises Tariffs on US Imports to 125% China will increase its tariff on U.S. imports to 125% on Saturday, the country’s Ministry of Finance announced Friday. The move is in response to the U.S. increasing its duties on goods from China to 125%, according to the Ministry of Finance, which said the U.S. government’s actions violate trade rules. The two countries have rapidly raised tariffs against each other since President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 34% duty for imports from China last week. When China responded in kind, the U.S. increased its tariffs by 50%. China countered the hike by announcing an 84% tariff on U.S. imports. The tit-for-tat trade exchange escalated further when Trump on Wednesday increased tariffs on imports from China again despite pausing most other country-specific duties. ***************************************************************************** Trump Floats Plan to Legalize Undocumented Farm Workers President Trump on Thursday suggested a new program will be set up to help legalize farmworkers and reduce the risk of farmers losing undocumented workers to mass deportations. Trump discussed easing restrictions around undocumented farm labor during a Cabinet meeting Thursday. It was the first time the president had signaled a willingness to temper his mass deportation plans to help protect the labor pool for industries such as agriculture. Undocumented workers will be given a chance to self-deport and return to the country legally, he said. That should be an incentive for people in the country illegally to identify themselves under the Alien Registration Act with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Trump said, “We're going to work with people so that if they go out in a nice way and go back to their country, we're going to work them right from the beginning on trying to get them back legally.” ***************************************************************************** Senate Measure Would End California's Animal-Welfare Law Created by Prop 12 Republican lawmakers in the U.S. Senate introduced legislation Tuesday that would strike down California's animal-welfare law created as a result of Proposition 12, drawing support from the nation's largest pork interest group. The Food Security and Farm Protection Act introduced by Sens. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, would prevent any state or local government from passing laws that interfere with commerce and agricultural practices outside their jurisdictions. Proposition 12 makes it a criminal offense and civil violation to sell whole pork meat in California unless the pig it comes from is born to a sow that was housed within 24 square feet of space and in conditions that allow a sow to turn around without touching an enclosure. Proposition 12 applies to any uncooked pork sold in the state, regardless of whether it was raised in California. ***************************************************************************** USDA Prepares for 'Reduction in Force' USDA has warned its 100,000-plus employees that major staff cuts are coming, offices will be closed, and people will be forced to relocate if they want to keep their jobs. USDA employees have been given the option to quit with up to six months in pay if they choose to take it. Citing the president's executive order in February implementing the "Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimization Initiative," the memo warned of more cuts to come. "While final plans are still under development, USDA aims to be transparent about what employees can expect." USDA plans to further reduce the size of the workforce and consolidate offices. That includes moving more people out of Washington, D.C., or the "National Capital Region," so staff can be "closer to the farmers, ranchers, foresters, and consumers we serve." ***************************************************************************** Export Sales of Corn, Beans, Wheat Decline Sales of corn, beans and wheat all plunged week to week in the seven days that ended on April 3, according to data from the Ag Department. Corn sales in the week through April 10 dropped to 785,600 metric tons, down 33% from both the previous week and the prior four-week average, the agency said. Korea was the big buyer at 204,200 tons, Colombia was in for 196,700 tons, Japan took 180,800 tons, Mexico bought 151,000 tons and Vietnam purchased 59,800 tons of U.S. corn. The total would’ve been higher but an unnamed destination canceled orders for 57,200 tons and Panama nixed shipments of 37,600 tons. Corn exports for the week dropped 32% to 339,100 tons. Soybean sales last week totaled 172,300 metric tons, USDA said. That’s down 58% from the week prior and 63% from the average. An unnamed country canceled shipments of 256,700 tons. ***************************************************************************** Demand Rages Ahead of U.S. Pistachio Supply This year’s pistachio crop is estimated at 1.1 billion pounds. As world pistachio supply continues to climb, the U.S. is the largest contributor to this, producing over half the global supply. Jim Zion with Meridian Growers said in late March that this year’s U.S. crop of over one billion pounds is largely sold out because of growing demand for the high-quality crop and that most processors are probably at 90% sold right now. The U.S. pistachio industry struggles with predicting what the upcoming harvest yield will be; early estimates can vary widely. Last year’s off-year crop was initially estimated at 1.1 billion pounds, but Zion added, “then we dropped it to 800 million pounds, then back up to 1.2 (billion pounds) and 1.3 (billion pounds). We ended up right at 1.1 billion pounds."
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 14, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Economic Research Service Commodity Outlooks at 2 p.m. CDT Crop Progress Report at 3 p.m. CDT Weather A storm system is moving through Ontario for Monday but is sending a cold front through the Corn Belt as well. The front will produce some limited showers, but there is potential for severe weather in the Upper Ohio Valley Monday afternoon and evening. Colder air rushing in behind the front may cause some isolated showers to form across the Upper Midwest as well as a few stronger wind gusts.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 11, 2025 |
Thursday’s WASDE Bullish for Corn and Soybeans, Bearish for Wheat USDA cut domestic corn ending stocks more sharply than pre-report estimates and boosted corn exports by 100 million bushels. In USDA’s latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) and Crop Production reports released Thursday, ending stocks for corn in the 2024-25 crop were lowered to 1.465 billion bushels (bb) with 100 million more bushels of export demand. Corn production for the 2024-25 crop was held at 14.87 billion bushels. USDA held the national yield at 179.3 bushels per acre. Harvested acres were 82.9 million. In soybeans, USDA lowered ending stocks for the old-crop 2024-25 by 5 million bushels to 375 mb, within the range of pre-report expectation. USDA estimates increased U.S. wheat ending stocks for the 2024-2025 season at 846 million bushels from 819 mb in March. USDA cut total use by 17 million bushels, down from 1.99 mb last month. ****************************************************************************** Trump Tariff Pause a Positive and Appreciated by Farmers Farmers across the U.S. were pleased to hear most countries will get a 90-day reprieve from the new individualized tariffs announced April 2—an opportunity for negotiations with our trading partners that could lead to consensus and potentially avoid permanent tariffs, along with improving market access for U.S. agriculture. “Farm Bureau appreciates President Trump’s decision to pause the reciprocal tariffs on dozens of America’s trading partners for 90 days,” said American Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall. “We have been engaging directly with the White House, U.S. Trade Representative and U.S. Department of Agriculture to emphasize the toll tariffs will take on America’s farmers and ranchers, who are already strapped because of high supply costs and shrinking paychecks. Creating more market challenges puts at risk more than 20% of U.S. farm income. We’re encouraged that those concerns are being heard.” With the pause came a rate drop to 10% for each of the countries itemized during that announcement—except for China. After including the “normal” VAT and standard duty rate for soy, the effective rate for soybeans shipped to China is 114.73%. ****************************************************************************** Trump says Administration to Slow Deportations on Illegal Farm, Hotel Workers President Donald Trump held a Cabinet meeting with his top officials Thursday and said his administration would provide some relief to farmers and hotel operators who employ immigrants lacking legal status. "We have to take care of our farmers, their hotels and, you know, various places where they need the people," he said. “A farmer will come in with a letter concerning certain people saying they're great, they're working hard. We're going to slow down a little bit for them, and then we're going to ultimately bring them back. They'll go out, they're going to come back as legal workers," Trump explained. More than two-thirds of U.S. crop workers are foreign-born, according to the USDA. Many of them came to the country through the H-2A visas, but officials estimate that 42% of the workers are undocumented migrants. ****************************************************************************** Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act Reintroduced in Senate Bipartisan legislation has been reintroduced in the U.S. Senate to address anticompetitive markets and vertical consolidation in the meatpacking industry. The “Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2025 would create the “Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters” within the Packers & Stockyards Division at USDA. The Office of the Special Investigator would hold legal powers to address violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act taken by large meatpackers. “Producers have gone too long without fair options when it comes to processors and meatpackers," according to U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper. “The industry is much more consolidated than is equitable, with the four largest beef packers controlling 85 percent of the space.” The House released their version of the bill on March 20. ***************************************************************************** U.S. Ethanol Exports Up 27 Percent Year-over-Year U.S. ethanol exports have crossed the one-billion-gallon threshold halfway through Marketing Year (MY) 2024/2025, a 27 percent increase from the same period in MY 2023/2024, according to new information from the USDA. The sharp rise in ethanol sales contributed to an 11 percent increase in U.S. grains in all forms (GIAF) exports compared to last year’s data. “Passing one billion gallons in ethanol exports just six months into MY 2024/2025 is a testament to the quality and versatility of U.S. ethanol,” said Alicia Koch, U.S. Grains Council (USGC) director of global ethanol export development. Canada is maintaining its place as the top importer of U.S. ethanol, purchasing 19 million more gallons than at this point in the last marketing year, and the European Union is showing strong appetite for U.S. ethanol by importing 78 million additional gallons. ****************************************************************************** Senators Press USDA on Avian Flu Response Senate Agriculture Committee members have written Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins urging her department to broaden its strategy for managing avian flu to include measures for turkeys and dairy herds. “Since the beginning of the outbreak, the virus has impacted more than 160 million birds, including more than 18.6 million turkeys, and nearly 1,000 dairy herds across the country,” the letter stated. “We appreciated your commitment to make addressing avian flu a top priority during your confirmation process and believe this strategic plan is an important first step in this effort… We request an update on the Department’s plan for ensuring turkey producers, dairy and other impacted livestock and wildlife species are covered under the plan. In addition, we request the Department develop a strategy and timeline for working with foreign trading partners to ensure potential vaccination of avian flu in poultry and cattle does not disrupt trade.” Signatories included Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Committee, along with Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 11, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets Producer Price Index data at 7:30 am. CDT Consumer Sentiment for April at 9 a.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A small system continues to move through the East on Friday, producing scattered showers mainly for coastal states. Another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies that will bring showers to northern areas of the U.S. over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 10, 2025 |
Administration Discussing Farmer Tariff Relief Package The White House and congressional lawmakers have begun discussing a tariff relief package. The talks are starting as agricultural trade groups continue to warn elected officials about the economic repercussions of tariffs. “We’re setting up the infrastructure that if, in fact, we have some short-term economic consequences for our farmers and ranchers, we’ll have programs in place to help,” Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins told Fortune. She also told CNN that the administration will be prepared in case of ‘longer-term damage’ by lining up funds with lawmakers. During a trade war in President Trump’s first term, U.S. farmers were hit hard, forcing the USDA to authorize $23 billion in assistance to crop, livestock, and fruit and vegetable producers. The ag secretary wouldn’t be specific about how much money the USDA might need to make farmers whole. “We’ve got the same team that built the first program under Sonny Perdue,” she added. *********************************************************************************** New Tariff Deals by Week’s End Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins predicted that some new deals could be reached on trade tariffs as soon as the end of this week. Reuters says President Donald Trump imposed a ten percent baseline tariff on all imports into the U.S. and higher duties on other countries that include some of America’s largest trade partners. China retaliated on U.S. tariffs with some of its own, so the White House said Tuesday that 104 percent duties on Chinese imports would begin shortly after midnight Wednesday. That announcement came out as the administration moved quickly to start talks with other trading partners targeted by tariffs. “I believe, sincerely, it’s going to be sooner rather than later,” Rollins said Tuesday. “I believe we’ll be hearing about new deals being struck, perhaps by the end of this week.” She added that 70 countries had already reached out to talk trade and tariffs with the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Applaud Legislation Protecting Food and Farmers Duane Stateler, president of the National Pork Producers Council, reacted positively to the introduction of the Food Security and Farm Production Act into the Senate. The bill, sponsored by Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Roger Marshall (R-KS), would avert a disastrous patchwork of contradictory state-by-state farm regulations that would hit small and medium-sized pork producers the hardest. “We sincerely thank the senators for standing up for the American pork producer, especially during these times of uncertainty,” Stateler said. “U.S. pork producers have just suffered the worst 18 months of financial losses in history, and many farm families are contemplating whether they’ll get to pass their farm along to the next generation.” Bipartisan support for relief is growing. Without the certainty the Act would provide, sponsors say there will be a significant chance of increased prices at the grocery store, as much as 41 percent for certain pork products. *********************************************************************************** White House Considering Adjustments to Port Fee Plan The Trump administration is considering a different plan for fees on Chinese ships visiting U.S. ports. The Economic Times says significant pushback against the plan came from industries that all said the idea would bring economic devastation. The changes being considered include delaying the plan implementation and a new fee structure that would lower the cost for Chinese ships to visit U.S. ports. The subject came up during U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s testimony at a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing this week. He told the lawmakers that not all of the proposed multi-million-dollar fees for Chinese ships to dock at U.S. ports would be implemented and might not be cumulative. The USTR office had suggested fees that could top $3 million per port call in the U.S. for those Chinese-built ships. The administration says the fees would halt China’s growing maritime influence and help promote America’s domestic maritime industry. *********************************************************************************** Don’t Forget Crop Protection Signup Deadline There’s no question that farmers always have a lot to do. With everything stacked up on the to-do list, it can be easy to forget to sign up for USDA’s farm safety net programs. However, the deadline is rapidly approaching. The Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs are two key safety net programs created to protect farmers from significant crop losses due to fluctuations in crop prices or revenue. Time is growing short, so the agency says, don’t delay. Farmers must make elections and enroll by April 15, 2025. The quickest way to do that is to reach out to your local FSA office. Make the most of the office visit by signing up for key FSA programs, including the new Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, checking on loan activity, and learning more about disaster assistance programs. To apply or learn about eligible commodities, visit fsa.gov. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Launch the Bipartisan Congressional Coffee Caucus Representatives Jill Tokuda (toe-KOO-dah) (D-HI) and William Timmons (R-SC) launched the Congressional Coffee Caucus. The goal is to work together to highlight coffee’s positive impact on the U.S. economy and help strengthen the resilience of the crop’s global supply chain. “Coffee is more than just a daily ritual – it’s a vital pillar of our economy,” Tokuda said. “From the fields in Hawaii to the roasteries and manufacturing plants in South Carolina and Vermont, coffee is consumed and enjoyed in every congressional district in the nation.” She also says coffee supports millions of farmers, businesses, and communities across the country and around the world. Focus areas of the caucus include increasing agricultural resilience by strengthening and increasing research and development funding to assist coffee farmers domestically and globally. "Two-thirds of American adults drink coffee daily, so the National Coffee Association is grateful for the new Caucus,” says NCA President and CEO William Murray.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 10, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT March Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT April WASDE Report at 11 a.m. CDT Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A small system is working through the Midwest on Thursday after already bringing some showers through on Wednesday. Some thunderstorms will occur across the south through the Mid-South, bringing unneeded rainfall to soaked areas trying to recover from flooding.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 9, 2025 |
February Pork and Beef Exports Below 2024 February exports of U.S. pork were lower than last year despite continued success in Mexico and Central America. February pork exports totaled 241,179 metric tons, down four percent from the large volume last year. Value dropped two percent to $671.5 million. Exports soared to Central America in February, and export value to Mexico exceeded $200 million for the eighth straight month. For January-February 2025, pork exports were three percent below last year’s record pace. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says February beef exports were also below last year after a higher trend in January. Beef exports totaled 98,198 metric tons in February, down 5.5 percent from 2024, while value dropped four percent to just over $800 million. February exports increased year-over-year to South Korea, Canada, Egypt, and the Philippines. January and February shipments were one percent below last year’s pace at 201,038 metric tons, but value increased one percent to $1.6 billion. *********************************************************************************** Senators Want Integrity Restored to RFS Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) are leading a bipartisan group of 16 senators in urging the Environmental Protection Agency to restore integrity to the Renewable Fuel Standard. They want the agency to raise the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels to help restore stability and growth to the U.S. biofuel sector. The Biden-era EPA set RVOs at levels that failed to align with market conditions and production outlook, which has contributed to biodiesel plant closures in the Midwest. In a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the senators pressed the agency to implement multi-year RVO standards to provide more clarity and growth for the biofuels industry. “The biofuels market continues expanding to new frontiers, including marine shipping, aviation, and rail,” the letter says. “Biofuels provide a buffer to market fluctuations in the liquid fuel market, consistently costing consumers less than traditional liquid fuels.” *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Increase Access to Dairy and Support Farmers Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act. It’s a bipartisan bill designed to increase access to dairy products for SNAP participants and support dairy farmers across rural America. The Act would allow SNAP participants to buy more milk, cheese, and yogurt with their benefits, expanding access to affordable and nutritious options. “Making sure more Americans have better access to food like yogurt and cheese while supporting their dairy farmers is a win-win for everyone,” Klobuchar says. “Our bipartisan legislation will help support healthy diets, make sure families can bring home more of the foods they love, and help dairy farmers feed the world. Marshall, a practicing physician for over two decades, says he can’t stress enough the importance of drinking whole milk, which serves as an excellent source of critical nutrients and contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system for all Americans. ********************************************************************************** Soybean Industry Studies Possible Oilseed Ban The results of a soy industry project to examine the impacts of a potential seed oil ban in the U.S. food supply are in, and the answers aren’t good. The seed oil study with funded by the United Soybean Board and conducted by the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Services. WAEES maintains agricultural economic models that allow it to examine potential industry changes, and where it found forecasting a ban was this: the seed oil industry, which primarily includes soybeans, canola, corn, cottonseed, grapeseed, rice bran, and others, would see a sizable drop in consumption for domestic products while imported palm oil would most likely flourish. ASA President and Kentucky farmer Caleb Ragland said this study simply confirms what they already know. “A ban on seed oils, including soy, is going to have costly impacts on farmers and consumers, and not just in the pocketbook either”, Ragland said. *********************************************************************************** TX Ag Commissioner Says to End Weaponization of the ESA The Endangered Species Act, once a vital tool for genuine conservation, was twisted into a weapon by the Biden Administration and their radical 30X30 land grab agenda. Those are thoughts from Sid Miller, the Commissioner of Agriculture in Texas. “Time and again, we’ve fought back against the reckless misuse of the law, including the listing of the Lesser Prairie Chicken, the expansion of a wildlife refuge, or the current listing of the Monarch Butterfly,” Miller said. “These heavy-handed decisions blatantly disregarded the successful, voluntary conservation efforts led by landowners, farmers, ranchers, and our energy producers.” Miller also said he proudly stands with those asking Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to promptly remove the Dune Sagebrush Lizard and Lesser Prairie Chicken from the Endangered Species list. “I also strongly advocate for the removal of the Eastern Monarch Butterfly from consideration under our Endangered Species Act,” he added. “Let’s restore some common sense.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Foundation Accepting Scholarship Applications The National Sorghum Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 academic scholarships for college students studying agriculture. “The future of agriculture depends on strong, passionate leaders,” says Foundation Chair Jeff Dahlberg, Ph.D. “These scholarships are one way we can invest in the next generation and support students who are committed to advancing sorghum and agricultural innovation.” Students applying for the Bruce Mander Memorial Scholarship must be sophomores through seniors and enrolled in agriculture-based degree programs. Applicants for the Darrell Rosenow Scholarship must be sophomores through seniors and enrolled in agriculture-based science programs related to agronomy, plant pathology, or plant breeding, with an emphasis on sorghum. Applicants for the Bill Kubecka Memorial Scholarship must be sophomores through seniors and enrolled in a curriculum related to ag economics, ag policy, or agricultural law. Each scholarship is valued at $1,500, and the application window is open through June 1, 2025, at sorghumgrowers.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 9, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets EIA Petroleum Status Report including weekly ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Minutes of March FOMC Meeting at 1 p.m. CDT Weather A small system will move through the Midwest, bringing scattered showers to the region on Wednesday. Some moderate showers and a few thunderstorms will be possible for southern areas that are dealing with excessive wetness and flooding. Some northern areas could see patches of snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 8, 2025 |
Some Ag Inputs Exempt from Tariffs Several agricultural inputs are exempt from the ten percent across-the-board tariffs and the higher reciprocal duties applied to specific trade partners. Agriculture Dot Com says that’s according to a list of carve outs published by the White House. Products excluded from the new duties include potash, certain herbicides and pesticides, peat, lumber products, lubricating oils, some energy products, and certain pharmaceuticals, including tranquilizers and vaccines for veterinary use. Diquat and paraquat are among the herbicides listed. Representatives from the agriculture industry and farm-state lawmakers have been pushing the administration for weeks for a slate of exemptions to any new duties. While the exemptions apply to the new ten percent duties and reciprocal tariffs, the list doesn’t apply to the 25 percent tariffs already in place on Mexico and Canada, even though Canada is a major U.S. supplier of some of the listed items. Multiple U.S. ag organizations fought hard for the exemptions. ************************************************************************************* Senators Attempt to Stop Tariff Chaos Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025, which would restore congressional oversight over President Trump’s tariff taxes. The bill aims to bring stability and accountability to U.S. trade policy by reestablishing limits on the president’s ability to unilaterally impose tariffs without the approval of Congress. The legislation was also sponsored by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and several others. The legislation follows Senate passage of Klobuchar’s bipartisan resolution with Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) to end President Trump’s tariff taxes on Canadian goods. Altogether, the senators say Trump’s tariff taxes will raise consumer costs by almost $4,000 per household. “The erratic way these tariffs have been announced, unannounced, and re-announced has made it difficult for families and businesses to plan for the future,” Klobuchar said. “The legislation would restore stability to our trade policy by ensuring they’re subject to additional review.” ************************************************************************************* NCGA Launching a New Consider Corn Challenge The National Corn Growers Association is launching the fifth Consider Corn Challenge, a contest in which participants can submit proposals for new uses of field corn that have quantifiable market demand. The Corn Growers Association says biobased products are a win-win for everyone. “NCGA is investing in these biobased solutions and positioning corn as the feedstock of choice,” says Chad Epler, the NCGA Research & New Uses Committee Chair. “To demonstrate our commitment to identifying and developing these new uses, we are increasing the prize by $50,000 to a total of $300,000.” Previous contest winners have scaled up to the next phase of development, received additional grant funding, entered into joint agreements, and obtained registration for state biobased production incentives. If all 19 winners of the first four Consider Corn Challenge contests get to full commercialization with products available in the marketplace, additional corn demand could be approximately 3.4 billion bushels. ************************************************************************************* Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Statement on Tariff Policies The Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Council says the last several months have shaken the foundation of North America’s deeply integrated manufacturing sector. Canadian and American manufacturers are not competitors but “partners,” co-producing goods that sustain millions of jobs and support thousands of communities across both countries. Canada has, for now, avoided the new levies under the reciprocal tariffs announced last week by the Trump Administration. However, the 25 percent tariffs on automotive, steel, and aluminum products remain in effect. “These unfair measures continue to harm manufacturers, workers, supply chains, investment decisions, and overall business confidence,” the Council said. Manufacturers urge both governments to work together to reinforce rather than unravel the North American manufacturing advantage by pursuing a comprehensive renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement to restore trade certainty and bolster industrial resilience across the continent. The Council is asking the government to minimize the collateral damage to manufacturing. ************************************************************************************* TFI Applauds Critical Mineral Decision The Fertilizer Institute thanked members of Congress in both chambers for sending a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in support of potash and phosphate being included on the list of critical minerals. “We thank the multiple senators and representatives for working together and uniting a bipartisan voice urging the Secretary of the Interior to rightfully recognize the essential nature of phosphate and potash,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The majority of the world’s phosphate and potash resources are concentrated in only a few countries, leaving them open to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability.” He also said the events of the past few years have shown us that food security is national security and now is the time to change how we talk about these vital resources. The U.S. imports about 98 percent of its potash needs, most of which (at 85 percent) comes from Canada. ************************************************************************************* 80-to-90 Billion Dollars Damage from Flooding AccuWeather says a rare atmospheric river that funneled extreme rainfall in parts of the Central United States caused an estimated $80 to $90 billion in total damage and economic loss. The atmospheric river combined with a multi-day outbreak of severe weather and tornadoes that were caused by a series of slow-moving storms. AccuWeather experts say the atmospheric river, the thunderstorms moving over the same areas, and the rounds of downpours unleashed 8-16 inches of rainfall and even higher localized amounts of around 20 inches in communities across Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana from April 2 to April 6. That triggered extreme flash flooding. Roads and railroad tracks across the region are damaged and even washed away in some spots by the force of fast-moving and rising floodwaters. The damage can and will have long-lasting impacts on commerce routes and shipping logistics in the region.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 8, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets No major U.S. economic or USDA reports scheduled but expect another active day of tariff related news. Weather Colder air continues across the eastern half of the country on Tuesday. While temperatures are rising in the West, a small disturbance will sneak through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains with some isolated showers.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 7, 2025 |
China Announces Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S. Goods China’s Finance Ministry will impose a 34 percent tariff on all U.S. imports starting on April 10. CNBC says it’s a response to duties imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. China’s state news agency says the Chinese government is calling on the U.S. to immediately cancel its unilateral tariff measures and resolve trade differences between the two countries in a manner beneficial to both sides. The ministry also said the now-54 percent tariffs on Chinese imports into the U.S. are “inconsistent with international trade rules and seriously undermines Chinese interests.” It also endangers global economic development and the stability of supply chains around the world. Bloomberg says the two countries are locked in a stalemate over China’s alleged role in the flow of fentanyl into America, which Trump cited as a reason behind the previous two rounds of tariffs. The commodity likely hit hardest by Chinese tariffs is U.S. soybeans. ************************************************************************************* FAPRI Releases 2025 U.S. Ag Market Outlook The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri released its 2025 U.S. Agricultural Market Outlook report. The outlook for U.S. farm finances is characterized by two competing story lines. For producers of many crops, net returns are down sharply from recent peaks as output prices have declined more than input costs. The cattle sector, in contrast, is experiencing record prices and returns to cow-calf producers. At the same time, uncertainty surrounding domestic programs and trade policy is unusually high. Corn prices, which peaked at $6.54 a bushel in 2022-2023, are projected to average $4.23 for the crop harvested in 2025. Soybean prices reached $14.20 per bushel in 2022-2023 and are projected to drop to $10.02 a bushel in 2025-2026. Prices for cotton, rice, sorghum, and many other crops have also declined sharply from recent peaks. Egg price volatility will continue depending on the prevalence of future HPAI disease outbreaks. ************************************************************************************* Ag Groups Call for Swift Trade Resolution U.S. agriculture groups are responding to the reciprocal tariffs announced by President Donald Trump by calling for a swift resolution to the trade conflict. “Approximately 15 percent of the U.S. corn crop is exported every year, and international markets are critical to our bottom line,” says National Corn Growers Association President Ken Hartman Jr. ‘So, we are well aware of the potential effects that these new tariffs could have on corn growers who are already facing a troubling economic landscape.” Also, the ten percent baseline tariffs on all countries and the individualized tariff rates on about 60 countries impact all of U.S. soy’s top ten markets. “We’re hoping that from obstacles can come opportunity and that the administration will swiftly work with the affected countries to create new market opportunities for U.S. soy,” says American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland. The group wants a quick update to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. ************************************************************************************* Weekly Export Sales Improve The USDA says export sales of corn, beans, and wheat all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on March 27. Corn sales during those seven days totaled 1.17 million metric tons, which the agency said was up 13 percent from the previous week and six percent from the prior four-week average. South Korea was the biggest buyer at 339,400 tons. Export sales for the week rose nine percent to 1.81 million tons. Soybean sales were reported at 410,200 metric tons, up 21 percent from the previous week but down nine percent from the four-week average. China was the top buyer at 285,900 tons of U.S. beans. Exports of the oilseeds fell by nine percent to 841,900 metric tons. Wheat sales jumped to 340,000 metric tons from 100,000 tons the prior week and were 40 percent higher than the four-week average. Ecuador was the top wheat buyer, purchasing 71,900 tons. ************************************************************************************* NCBA Applauds New Tariff Policy Ethan Lane, the senior vice president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, attended President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff announcement at the White House. “For too long, America’s family farmers and ranchers have been mistreated by certain trading partners around the world,” he said after the event. “NCBA will continue engaging with the White House to ensure fair treatment for America’s cattle producers around the world and optimize opportunities for exports abroad.” As an example, Australia has sold roughly $29 billion worth of beef to American consumers. Meanwhile, Lane said America hasn’t been able to sell even $1 of fresh U.S. beef in Australia due to non-scientific barriers. Vietnam has a 30 percent tariff on U.S. beef, while Australian beef faces no such tariff. Thailand places a 50 percent tariff on U.S. beef. Brazil and Paraguay each have a history of dangerous foot-and-mouth disease yet still have full U.S. market access. ************************************************************************************* USB Celebrates Soy Foods Month As the conversations around seed oils grow, U.S. soybean farmers can be confident that their investment in the edible oils market is backed by strong, peer-reviewed science. Research continues to reaffirm the health benefits of seed oils, particularly soybean oil, emphasizing its value in the food industry and strengthening consumer trust in U.S. soy. This Soy Foods Month, the United Soybean Board is highlighting the essential role of soybean oil in American diets. This product continues to benefit consumer health and drive profitability for U.S. farmers. “The Soy Checkoff invests to protect U.S. soybean farmers’ stake in the edible oils market and uphold the reputation of the healthiness of soybean oil,” says Sara Stelter, USB farmer-leader and Wisconsin farmer. “Together with our partners, we’re working to reclaim the narrative around seed oils.” Despite the misinformation circulating about seed oils, the Soy Checkoff is leading efforts to set the record straight.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 7, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Crop Progress at 3 p.m. CDT Weather A cold front continues to push through the East on Monday, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Areas behind the front in the Mid-South and Midwest are thankful for a dry day after massive amounts of rain had fallen in the previous five days. Floodwaters will take quite a long time to recede in some of these areas that saw more than eight inches from Arkansas to Kentucky.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 4, 2025 |
Trade War Will Force Farms to Close, and More Reactions From Ag Industry on Latest Tariffs President Donald Trump announced a swath of reciprocal tariffs on Wednesday in an address at the White House Rose Garden. Calling it a “Liberation Day,” Trump signed an executive order declaring a national economic emergency due to “foreign trade and economic practices” from countries around the world. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-North Carolina, criticized the move, saying in a video interview that “anyone who says there will be a little bit of pain before we get things right, needs to talk about farmers, who are one crop away from bankruptcy.” According to a fact sheet released by the White House in the wake of the executive order, a 10% tariff on imported goods from all countries will go into effect on April 5 at 12:01 a.m. ET. In addition, there will be an “individualized reciprocal higher tariff” on countries with which the Trump administration says the United States has the largest trade deficits. These tariffs have ranges varying by country and go into effect April 9 at 12:01 ET. ************************************************************************************** How Trump's Team Used Trade Deficits to Calculate Tariff Rates President Trump’s administration calculated its raft of new tariffs primarily based on existing trade balances — a departure from pledges to match the tariff rates and other trade barriers from other countries. In a statement published Wednesday night to explain its methodology for tariffs that rocked the globe, the United States Trade Representative detailed a formula that divides a country’s trade surplus with the U.S. by its total exports, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau for 2024. That number was then divided by two, producing the “discounted” rate. China, for instance, had a trade surplus of $295 billion with the U.S. last year on total exports of $438 billion — a ratio of 68%. Divided by two according to Trump’s formula, that yielded a tariff rate of 34%. The same calculations roughly produced the rates for other economies like Japan, South Korea and the European Union. Countries where the U.S. runs a trade surplus were also hit, facing a flat 10% rate regardless, as did nations where trade was roughly even. ************************************************************************************** Corn, Soybeans, Wheat Plunge Following Tariff Announcement Corn, soybean, and wheat futures all plunged in overnight trading after President Trump said the U.S. would impose tariffs on several trading partners. The president said at an event at the White House Rose Garden that the U.S. would put a 54% tariff on goods imported from China, the world’s largest buyer of soybeans, which will take effect on April 9. Tariffs were imposed on many countries including a 24% levy on goods from Japan, 36% on items from Thailand, and 20% on products from the UK. Canadian and Mexican goods will still face 25% tariffs. China said it “firmly opposes” the sweeping duties and will take “resolute countermeasures” to counteract the sweeping duties. The European Union, which faces 20% levies on its products, is preparing additional tariffs of its own on U.S. products and Canada said it will unveil countermeasures today. Corn futures dropped 8¢ to $4.49¾ a bushel. ************************************************************************************** U.S. Honeybee Deaths Soar, Grocery Store Bills Could Take the Hit Beekeepers across the country are sounding the alarm as honeybee populations are dwindling at an unprecedented rate, a trend that could affect Americans' wallets at the grocery store. Honeybees are the backbone of the food ecosystem, pollinating 75% of the world's natural supplies, but a recent nationwide survey by Project Apis found catastrophic honeybee declines across the industry. Commercial operators reported an average loss of 62% from June to February nationwide. These alarming losses could significantly impact U.S. agriculture, particularly crop pollination for almonds, fruits, vegetables, and other essential food sources. There are many contributing factors that can cause a colony to die, including pathogens; varroa mites, a parasite that feeds on bees; and a lack of nutrition. Bees are responsible for $17 billion in agricultural production in the United States every year. A loss of pollinators would result in food prices going up. Bees, the only insects that produce food for human consumption, have become a hot commodity as their numbers dwindle. ************************************************************************************** Sec. Rollins Calls on Congress to Pass a Farm Bill Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says farmers and ranchers need a new five-year farm bill in 2025. It has failed now to get through Congress the last two times under the Biden administration, and it is a very, very big priority of mine, Rollins said Monday. But she says getting it across the finish line will be a complicated process. The farm part of the farm bill is only about 15-to-18%, and 60 votes are required to get it through the Senate. That means that it will need, depending on the Republicans, between 10-to-13 Democrat votes. There’s a lot of conversations that have to go on and a lot of negotiations that have already happened. U.S. Senator Joni Ernst says the cost for a new farm bill keeps going up as negotiations continue. Our farm bill had grown in cost from over $800 billion in the last farm bill to $1.5 trillion. The current farm bill extension expires in September. ************************************************************************************** Lawmakers Discuss Bill to Bring Whole Milk Back to Schools More than a dozen years after higher-fat milk was stripped from school meals to slow obesity in American kids and boost their health, momentum is growing to put it back. Federal lawmakers have revived bills that would allow whole and 2% milk to be served again in schools, in addition to the skim and low-fat milk mandated since 2012. A U.S. Senate committee hosted a hearing Tuesday on a bill that has bipartisan support. “Kids need wholesome, nourishing food to grow strong and stay healthy, and whole milk is packed with the nutrients they need,” said Sen. John Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat who is co-sponsoring the legislation. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called the federal dietary guidelines requiring low-fat milk “antiquated” and last month encouraged “full fat/whole milk” to be used in Head Start programs for the nation’s youngest children.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 4, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Unemployment and Wage Data for March at 7:30 a.m. CDT Fed Chair Jerome Powell Press Conference at 10:25 a.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A stalled front has been the focus of some very heavy rainfall and severe weather the last couple of days from the Southern Plains through the Ohio Valley. This area continues to see these hazards on Friday and into the weekend. Some areas have already seen more than six inches of rainfall with more to come, causing widespread flooding.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 3, 2025 |
Ag Leaders Speak Out on 2,4-D Farmers would suffer if the U.S. government granted a petition to place anti-dumping and countervailing duties on imports of the herbicide 2,4-D. The president of the National Corn Growers Association testified about that before the International Trade Commission. “First, 2,4-D is a growth regulator that targets broadleaf weeds that cause significant harm to corn and has minimal effect on grasses,” said NCGA President Ken Hartman, Jr. “This makes it useful for corn, which is a grass, because it kills the weeds but not the corn plants.” The American Soybean Association points out that because dicamba is no longer available as a key herbicide for soybeans, which means their farmers need a reliable supply of herbicides like 2,4-D now more than ever. “New import duties on 2,4-D would make things even harder, further disrupting our access to reliable herbicide tools in our toolboxes,” says ASA President and Kentucky farmer Caleb Ragland. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Group Celebrates Support for Whole Milk Act The National Milk Producers Federation celebrated strong bipartisan Senate support for the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act as senators began considering this crucial legislation. In a Senate Ag Committee hearing to review the measure, committee members and panelists highlighted the role this bill could have in increasing student milk consumption and nutrition access while also potentially decreasing waste. “We know that Americans are under-consuming dairy products, and as we heard today, students have said they want the milk they’re familiar with and find satisfying,” said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “For many students, that’s whole milk.” The federation commends Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Peter Welch (D-VT) for advocating for the nation’s students to have more access to nutrient-rich dairy by allowing schools to offer whole milk with school meals. The House of Representatives is considering similar legislation led by House Ag Chair GT Thompson and Kim Schreier (D-WA). *********************************************************************************** Sheep Farmers Descend on Capitol Hill The American Sheep Industry Association conducted its annual Spring Trip to Washington, D.C., with approximately 50 sheep producers from all over the U.S. The group made the yearly trip to advocate for the industry’s priorities. Attendees met with key officials from the USDA, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to discuss many of the critical issues facing American sheep producers. Conversations centered around near-term tariff and trade announcements from the White House, the importance of risk management for sheep producers in passing a new farm bill, and the sheep-specific requests for changes to the H-2A Program. Following the agency meetings, attendees visited individually with members of their respective state congressional delegations, focusing many of those conversations on most of the same issues, as well as animal health, the important role the Wildlife Service plays for producers, and the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Growers CEO Steps Down The National Association of Wheat Growers announced that CEO Chandler Goule will be stepping down from his position in July 2025. “The past nine years I’ve been with the Wheat Growers have been incredibly rewarding,” Goule said. “I’m confident that the Association is in a stronger position today than it was when I first started with the organization.” He also said one of his proudest accomplishments was winning the Prop 65 case against the state of California, ensuring facts and science guided the outcome. “I encourage all wheat farmers to stay actively engaged with the Association because your participation amplifies your voice and strengthens our industry,” he added. “As for me, I won’t be going far – where that leads is still to be determined.” NAWG President Pat Clements says they are “deeply grateful” for Goule’s nine years of dedicated service. “His leadership has been instrumental in our many successes,” Clements added. *********************************************************************************** Oil and Biofuel Coalition Meets with EPA A coalition of U.S. oil and biofuel groups met with the Environmental Protection Agency this week to push for higher federal mandates for biomass diesel blending. Three sources familiar with the plans told Reuters that the EPA meeting may signal that the agency is getting closer to releasing fresh biofuel blending quotas for the Renewable Fuel Standard. The forthcoming proposal is predicted to cover two years’ worth of mandates. Two sources familiar with the matter say the EPA could release the proposal as early as this month. Big Oil and the Farm Belt’s biofuel makers haven’t worked well together in the past. The two sides are traditionally competitors in the multi-billion-dollar U.S. fuel market. A document viewed by Reuters shows the coalition pushed for biomass diesel blending mandates of 5.5 billion to 5.75 billion gallons. The current level is 3.35 billion gallons, which the industry says is far below production capacity. *********************************************************************************** Adjuvants Market Predicted to Grow 14 Percent by 2032 The agricultural adjuvant market will grow by 14 percent from 2024 to 2032. The growth is attributed to the increasing need for effective crop protection solutions. With the growing global population and subsequent demand for food, the agricultural sector is under pressure to maximize crop yields. According to the United Nations, the world population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050, which means food production will need to grow by 70 percent to keep up. Agricultural adjuvants, which enhance the effectiveness of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, play a crucial role in improving crop protection and minimizing environmental impact. The rising awareness of sustainable farming practices further drives the adoption of these products, which will support market expansion. Europe will drive significant gains in the agricultural adjuvants market between 2024 and 2032, supported by the region’s advanced agricultural practices, stringent regulations promoting sustainable farming, and its growing need for increasing food production.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 3, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services at 7:30 a.m. CDT Buenos Aires Grain Exchange (Argentina) Weekly Crop Progress Report at 12 p.m. CDT Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A system that cleared the Midwest on Wednesday and brought widespread severe weather left its cold front hanging from Texas up through the Ohio Valley. This area will continue to see showers and thunderstorms throughout the entire day Thursday, bringing some risks of severe weather and adding heavy rain to areas that already saw a lot on Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 2, 2025 |
Farmer Sentiment Slips on Policy Uncertainty Farmer sentiment dropped during March as concerns over agricultural trade and farm policy weighed on producers’ outlook for the future. The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 12 points to 140, down from 152 in February. The Index saw a 15-point drop in the Index of Future Expectations to 144, and the Current Conditions Index fell five points to 132. The drop was influenced by falling crop prices since mid-February, along with the increasing uncertainty surrounding agricultural trade and farm policy. The Farm Capital Investment Index fell five points to 54 in March. Despite the dip, that’s the second-highest reading since June 2021. The Short-Term Farmland Value Expectations Index remained steady at 118 in March, only six points lower than in March 2024. The Farm Financial Performance Index also dropped eight points to 102. The Index indicates that producers still anticipate better financial performance this year than in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Rollins Heads Overseas to Expand Market Access Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins will visit six international markets in her first six months on the job to help expand markets and boost American agricultural exports. At a time when the agricultural trade deficit is at almost $50 billion following the previous administration’s little to no action taken in the international marketplace, the USDA is now working to diversify global markets, strengthen existing markets, and hold existing trade partners accountable for their end of the deal. “USDA remains committed to expanding market access around the world,” Rollins said. “I’m going abroad to sell the bounty of American agriculture and to ensure the prosperity of our hard-working agricultural producers. Everything is on the table to get more markets for our products.” This year, the Ag Secretary will visit Vietnam, Japan, India, Peru, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. Other USDA trade missions include stops in Hong Kong, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan, and Mexico. *********************************************************************************** Meat Export Federation Says Shipbuilding Idea Not Feasible The U.S. Trade Representative recently held hearings on a proposal to impose million-dollar port call fees on Chinese vessels. The U.S. Meat Export Federation joined more than 300 other organizations in saying the fees would hurt U.S. exports. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom supports the intent of the proposal to incentivize U.S. shipbuilding. “The reality is it’s not feasible right now,” Halstrom said. “It’s going to take some time to become viable, and we don’t want to have our exporters get penalized by other countries while we wait for this to happen.” Shippers have already indicated they would reduce port calls, including a key port for the red meat industry. “The Port of Oakland represents about 40 percent of our waterborne exports on the beef side,” he said. “We’ve had some companies publicly say that Oakland would be a candidate to stop service to if this current policy were installed.” *********************************************************************************** Poultry Markets Strong but Face Headwinds Improved economic conditions in many regions, together with ongoing high prices for other proteins, make poultry an attractive option for worldwide consumers. Rabobank says global consumption growth is predicted to reach 2.5 to three percent this year. This marks the second year of above-average market growth, which led to significant improvements in margin performance. However, dealing with avian influenza remains a significant challenge for the U.S. poultry industry and one of its biggest concerns. Additionally, the supply of parent stock remains tight, and hatching egg prices are still high, restricting growth. Aside from the ongoing flu risk, rising geopolitical tensions and competition pose the biggest challenges for global trade. The geopolitical tension includes U.S. tariffs on imports and retaliatory tariffs on U.S. poultry from affected regions, which could lead to a trade war and shifting global trade flows. Rabobank says global traders should be prepared to respond quickly to developments. *********************************************************************************** AFT Again Sponsors “America the Bountiful” American Farmland Trust has renewed its sponsorship of the national public television series “America the Bountiful,” which began season number two on April 1, 2025. “America the Bountiful” is a food, history, and travel series exploring the regional food traditions of America’s heartland and it’s hosted by TV personality, cookbook author, and radio podcast host Capri Cafaro. In the second season, the series takes viewers on a journey into America’s heartland to learn about culture and find inspiration in the chronicles of farmers, artisans, restaurants, and home cooks through the bounty they grow, produce, and eat. “AFT is focused on saving the land that sustains all of us, and our Season Two partnership with ‘America the Bountiful’ will help us reach an important national public television audience of engaged and committed conservationists, farmers, and food lovers across the country,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (pee-OT-tee). “It’s an exciting partnership.” *********************************************************************************** AVMA Echoes Calls for Getting More Veterinarians into High-Need Areas After working with congressional offices and other stakeholders, the American Veterinary Medical Association’s advocacy work led to the reintroduction of the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act in the House and Senate. The bipartisan legislation would help recruit and retain veterinarians in underserved and rural areas. The AVMA strongly endorses the bill, which would expand the reach and maximize the allocated funding of the highly successful Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program, which helps by assisting with the significant obstacle of educational debt. Earlier this year, the USDA declared 243 rural veterinary shortage areas in 46 states, which is the highest number of shortage areas ever. The Association says recruiting and retaining veterinarians through the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act is key to protecting our nation’s food supply, preserving animal welfare, and upholding public health. Livestock and public health veterinarians are essential to strengthening the nation’s animal health infrastructure and the animal agriculture economy.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 2, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets EIA Petroleum Status Report including weekly ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT President Trump will unveil and discuss the Administrations April 2 tariff actions at 3 p.m. CDT Weather Another big system will move through the Midwest on Wednesday. A mix of rain and snow across the north will lead to some heavy snowfall totals in some areas. But the cold front to the system is producing a line of strong-to-severe thunderstorms across the Plains early Wednesday morning. That front will move eastward throughout the day and thunderstorms should grow. A high risk of severe weather should accompany the storms as they get into the Mississippi Valley, with the expectation of a tornado outbreak this evening particularly across the northern Delta and Lower Ohio Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 1, 2025 |
USDA Says Corn Acres Up 5% in 2025 U.S. farmers will plant nearly 5 million more corn acres in 2025 compared with last year. In its 2025 Prospective Plantings report released Monday, the agency pegged corn acres for the 2025/2026 crop year at 95.3 million. This was up 5% from last year and above the average trade expectation. Soybean acres projected below last year at 83.5 million acres, below last year and the average trade expectation. Wheat acres were also pegged lower year-over-year at 45.4 million acres, below the trade expectation of 46.5. USDA also released the quarterly Grain Stocks report today. Corn stocks were in line with the average trade expectation and lower year-over-year. Soybeans and wheat, however, were higher than the average trade expectations and higher year-over-year. Jeremy McCann, account manager with Farmer’s Keeper, told Successful Farming, “Immediately after the report, old crop corn and wheat seem to be the only markets getting a positive bounce.” ************************************************************************************* Big Week for Tariffs; GOP Leaders Seek Path for Budget Bill President Donald Trump this week is set to unveil his reciprocal tariffs on U.S. trading partners. Trump says Wednesday is the “big one” for his next move on trade policy, but it’s unclear how broad the new reciprocal duties will be, based on recent messaging from the administration. The tariffs are supposed to vary depending on the size of the barriers the target country imposes on U.S. exports. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested earlier this month that the initial tranche of reciprocal duties could focus on just 15 trade partners with which the U.S. has persistent trade deficits. But Trump told reporters last week that this week’s tariff announcement would, in fact, cover every country. New, secondary tariffs on countries buying oil and gas from Venezuela could also be on the table, according to a Trump Truth Social post last week. Whatever comes, some trade partners are already signaling they’re ready to respond. ************************************************************************************* Can Broiler Eggs Help Table Egg Prices? There have been over 20 million commercial table/shell egg laying hens lost already in 2025 alone due to High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Losses have impacted egg supply and prices have spiked. As a stopgap measure to boost egg supplies, it has been suggested that surplus eggs from broiler hatcheries could be transferred into the egg products market, replacing shell eggs that could then be sold as fresh, helping lower prices. The surplus broiler eggs come from the occasional over-supply of hatching eggs not being able to be set to hatch. They are currently used for animal feed products or often simply disposed of. It is estimated by the National Chicken Council that there would be an annual surplus of “…almost 400 million broiler eggs (going) into the egg breaking supply each year. Total table egg production for 2024 over 93 billion eggs. The surplus broiler egg supply, it could provide an additional 33.6 million eggs per month, or about 0.4% of the monthly total. ************************************************************************************* Some Texas Corn Farmers May Switch to Planting Cotton Due to Dry Conditions Although corn and sorghum planting continues to progress across Texas, agronomists suggest that some farmers might switch from planting acres in corn and sorghum to cotton this year amidst continuing drought. In West Central Texas, Reagan Noland, an assistant professor and extension agronomist for Texas A&M University, said both corn and sorghum acreage will be extremely limited this year due to dry conditions and depleted irrigation water supplies. Noland said it is a possibility for farmers to still plant grain sorghum through mid-April, but it’s not likely unless it starts raining soon. Instead of growing dryland grain sorghum, Noland said many growers are likely to change plans and grow cotton instead as a result of the continued drought conditions in the region. “We haven’t received any rain in March,” Noland said, “and rainfall over the past several months has been very marginal.” ****************************************************************************** UK Detects First Case of Bird Flu in a Sheep, Stoking Fears of Spread Bird flu has been detected in a sheep in northern England, the first known case of its kind in the world, Britain’s government said, adding to the growing list of mammals infected by the disease and fueling fears of a pandemic. Many different mammals have died of the H5N1 bird flu virus across the globe including bears, cats, dairy cows, dogs, dolphins, seals and tigers. The case was identified following routine surveillance of farmed livestock on a premises in Yorkshire where highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) had been confirmed in other captive birds, Britain’s government. There have been cases among humans which have ranged in severity from no symptoms to, in rare cases, death. But there has not yet been any confirmed transmission between humans. ****************************************************************************** Estimating the Impact of Low Mississippi River Levels on Soybean Basis in the Midsouth Extreme weather events, like drought, jointly impact agricultural production and rural infrastructure, including transportation infrastructure. An important part of this transportation infrastructure is the Mississippi River. It serves as one of the most critical networks for moving agricultural commodities. Soybeans, the leading U.S. agricultural export, rely heavily on barge transportation, with 53 percent of exports moved by barge. Despite this reliance on barges for moving U.S. grain, little is known about the link between extreme weather, rural transportation infrastructure, and crop prices. Record-low water levels increased transportation costs and barge freight rates. Higher transportation costs are transmitted to row crop producers through lower cash bids or a weakening of local crop basis. Historic lows in Mississippi River levels during the fall harvest of the last three years have highlighted the need to measure the impact of these low river levels on rural infrastructure and communities. When the river stream gauge in Memphis, Tennessee reads -5 feet, Arkansas soybean basis weakens (widens) by $0.58 per bushel.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 1, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets ISM Manufacturing Index for March at 9 a.m. CDT USDA Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushing Report for February at 2 p.m. CDT USDA Grain Crushings and Co-Products Report for February at 2.p.m. CDT Weather Another strong storm system is moving into the Plains on Tuesday. A mix of rain and snow has already formed across the north and will spread into the Upper Midwest for Tuesday. Severe thunderstorms are forecast across the Central and Southern Plains, getting into the southwestern Midwest as well. Strong winds will form in the Plains, drying out soils where the rain doesn't fall and potentially leading to blowing dust and spreading wildfires.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 31, 2025 |
Just Ahead of USDA Report, FBN Data Signals Corn is King for 2025 Survey results showed U.S. farmers plan to plant more corn while cutting back on soybeans and wheat acres. For the fifth year in a row, Farmers Business Network (FBN) has published its Planting Intentions Report for major crops including corn, soybeans, and wheat. FBN’s estimates were derived from a survey of almost 1,000 U.S. farmers that represent 2 million acres of total production. These survey results were published less than a week before USDA is set to release its latest projections in the Prospective Plantings report scheduled for Monday, March 31, 2025. Grain and commodity markets are known to swing dramatically based on this report. With the tremendous uncertainty in the farm economy today, we’re proud to provide insights like these back to our farmer members who are trying to manage risk in a difficult pricing environment, said Cody Bills, director of U.S. market advisory. ****************************************************************************** Survey: Farmers Defy Market Predictions, Stick to Rotations Despite Corn Price Optimism Meanwhile, another survey, this one by Farm Futures, indicates that while corn prices may look better than soybean prices, they’re not hot enough to lure farmers away from their crop rotations. Ahead of Monday’s Prospective Plantings report from USDA, farmers said that on average they plan only a slight increase in corn acres and a higher increase in soybean acres. In states with the most acres dedicated to those golden kernels, planting intentions are a mixed bag, according to the survey results. Farmers prioritize agronomic considerations over market trends, with most unable or unwilling to significantly alter their crop mix. In the survey that closed March 18, half of the farmer respondents in the top 10 corn-producing states reported drops in their average planted corn acres. For Illinois and Iowa, which together grow about one-third of the corn produced in the U.S., the survey shows the market isn’t buying many acres. In Illinois, the average number of corn acres per respondent is up 6 acres to 590 acres. Iowa farmers dropped their average from 568 acres to 556, nearly level with their 2023 corn acreage. ****************************************************************************** U.S. Beef Sales to China Skid After Beijing Lets Export Registrations Lapse U.S. beef sales to China have taken a dive, U.S. government data showed on Thursday, after Beijing allowed the expiration of registrations that had permitted exports from hundreds of American meat facilities. A tit-for-tat tariff dispute has also raised duties on U.S. meat and other goods shipped to China, making the products less attractive to Chinese buyers. The spat adds new strains to relations between the countries that had already reached historic lows in recent years. China has not renewed export registrations for U.S. beef facilities that expired on March 16, though it updated registrations for pork and poultry plants, according to traders and the U.S. Meat Export Federation trade group. As a result, U.S. exporters and Chinese buyers are reluctant to strike deals for American beef produced after that date due to uncertainty about whether it will be cleared for delivery, federation spokesperson Joe Schuele said. Nobody wants to put product at risk. ****************************************************************************** Producers Have Until April 15 to Enroll in USDA’s Key Commodity Safety Net Programs Agricultural producers who have not yet enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2025 crop year have until April 15, 2025 to revise elections and sign contracts. Both safety net programs, delivered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provide vital income support to eligible farmers who experience substantial declines in crop prices or revenues for the 2025 crop year. Agriculture Risk Coverage or Price Loss Coverage programs provide excellent risk protection, for market declines, at no cost to the producer, said Brenda Archuleta, deputy state executive director for FSA in New Mexico. If you haven’t made your program election or signed a contract, please contact your local FSA county office as soon as possible to set an appointment so you don’t miss the April 15 deadline. ****************************************************************************** Inoculation Critical for New and Old Peanut Ground One of the most important jobs a peanut farmer can do to ensure good yields is to use inoculation for nitrogen fixation in both old ground and new. David Jordan, North Carolina State University Extension peanut specialist, emphasized that there is no substitute for successful inoculation in new peanut ground. But the practice is a must on all ground where peanuts are planted. He stressed that with longer rotations in place and some expansion to new ground, making sure inoculants perform well is very important. Correcting a nitrogen deficiency with ammonium sulfate or other sources of nitrogen is very expensive, he says. On new ground with no history of peanut production, Jordan recommended an in-furrow inoculant and a peat-based inoculant in the hopper with seed. He said this is for insurance for failure, including clogs and product issues. ****************************************************************************** Researchers Find New Way to Fight Parasitic Weeds The trick is detailed in the journal Science, and at its heart lies a class of hormones called strigolactones. Most of the time, plant hormones do not radiate externally — they aren’t exuded. But these do, says University of California Riverside plant biologist and paper co-author David Nelson. Plants use strigolactones to attract fungi in the soil that have a beneficial relationship with plant roots. Unfortunately for farmers, parasitic weeds have learned to hijack the strigolactone signals. “These weeds are waiting for a signal to wake up,” Nelson says. “We can give them that signal at the wrong time — when there’s no food for them — so they sprout and die. It’s like flipping their own switch against them, essentially encouraging them to commit suicide.” This breakthrough allows researchers to study strigolactone synthesis in a controlled environment and potentially produce large amounts of these valuable chemicals.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 31, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10:00 a.m. CDT Prospective Plantings Report at 11:00 a.m. CDT Grain Stocks Report at 11:00 a.m. CDT Weather A storm system from the weekend will continue to push through the Gulf Coast and East on Monday, spreading showers and thunderstorms and potential for some severe weather in the Southeast. The break between systems will not last long as another is moving through the West that will bring widespread impacts to the middle of the country Monday night and especially Tuesday and Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 28, 2025 |
Ag Economists say the U.S. is Already in a Trade War Most respondents in Farm Journal’s March Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor agree the U.S. is already in a trade war. U.S. agriculture hit a record trade deficit last year as imports soared, and President Donald Trump wants to reverse the trend. Over 90 percent of the economists surveyed think the president’s strategy of using tariffs as a negotiating tool will not be a benefit to American agriculture in the long run. One economist in the survey said food as a weapon doesn’t have a successful track record, as seen with Jimmy Carter in the 1980s. Another economist wasn’t quite as certain, saying that for it to be beneficial, tariffs depend on being short-lived and resulting in trade initiatives with market access or purchase commitments. According to the administration, when it comes to tariffs and their impact on the overall economy, the long-term gain will be worth the short-term pain. *********************************************************************************** Deere Responds to Right-to-Repair Lawsuit Deere and Co. filed an answer to the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit alleging the tractor manufacturer holds a monopoly over its repair services. The FTC says that hold unfairly drives up costs and restricts farmers from fixing their equipment in a timely manner. Attorneys defended John Deere in federal court by repeatedly denying allegations that its “business practices are unlawful.” Manufacturing Dive says the issue over equipment repair practices has been building for years, with technological advancements that companies say are designed to make consumers’ lives easier create headaches for those looking to fix their tractors. While Deere offers a different repair tool to customers and independent repair shops, the FTC claims that version is inferior to the one available to authorized dealers, saying the tool is allegedly incapable of doing all repairs on Deere equipment. The company acknowledged the existence of two tools but denied one was inferior. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for World Pork Expo 2025 Registration is open for the 2025 World Pork Expo, hosted by the National Pork Producers Council. This year’s Expo will take place June 4-5 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. Pork producers and industry professionals from across the globe attend every year. With two full days of exhibits, education, and networking, the 2025 Expo will feature the industry’s top experts, innovative solutions, and the latest products and services designed to help pork producers succeed. It’s the world’s largest pork-specific trade show, with over 700 booths showcasing cutting-edge technology, services, and equipment across 300,000 square feet of exhibit space. There will also be a young pork advocates’ Issues Meet, which is a unique platform highlighting future industry leaders’ voices and perspectives on multiple pork production topics. Expanded educational sessions will feature practical insights from experts designed to address the evolving challenges and opportunities facing pork producers. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Sales Highlighted at Meat Conference The American Lamb Board attended the 2025 Annual Meat Conference sponsored by the Meat Institute. It brings together all segments of the retail meat industry to learn how to improve meat and poultry marketing, operations, and profitability. In 2024, dollar and volume sales of meat and poultry experienced growth. One exceptionally bright spot for lamb was the growth in fresh meat sales. Fresh meat had a remarkable year, with sales exceeding $73 billion, which was a 6.7 percent increase over 2023. “You see that fresh meat had a tremendous year, led by beef, but almost all proteins gained in pounds,” says Anne-Marie Roerink, president of 201 Analytics, which conducted the 2025 Power of Meat Study. “Lamb, for instance, will likely become a billion-dollar category over the next year.” Many consumers in the study indicated a desire to create more premium meals at home, another bright spot for American lamb. *********************************************************************************** University of Minnesota, USDA to Study Bird Flu in Dairy Cattle Researchers from the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine received a $1.5 million cooperative agreement grant from USDA to work on collaborative projects on avian influenza. The goals are better understanding of disease transmission and mitigating the impacts of the disease on dairy herds and the broader agriculture industry. The presence of bird flu in U.S. dairy cattle was first confirmed in early 2024, renewing urgent concerns for animal and farmworker health and the dairy supply chain. The virus has been far less lethal to cows than it is for poultry. However, researchers say the growing recognition of interspecies transmission underscores the necessity for immediate scientific investigation. There have been 68 confirmed cases in humans with one death. The collaboration among research teams will include experts in virology, epidemiology, microbiology, veterinary medicine, and agricultural biosecurity. Nine projects funded under the grant will contribute to safeguarding human and animal health. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Two-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output in the U.S. dropped to its lowest level in almost two months during the week ending on March 21. The agency said production fell to an average of 1.053 million barrels a day during those seven days. That’s down from 1.105 million barrels a day during the prior week and the lowest since the seven days ending on January 24. Midwest output averaged 1.002 million barrels a day, down from 1.057 million the week prior. The EIA says that’s the entirety of the weekly losses, as three regions saw no change in their production. Gulf Coast output was steady at 19,000 barrels a day, Rocky Mountain production was unchanged at 11,000 barrels a day, and West Coast output was 10,000 barrels a day. East Coast production was the only gainer, reaching 11,000 barrels a day from 9,000 a day a week earlier.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 28, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets Personal Consumption Expenditure at 7:30 a.m. CDT Consumer Sentiment at 9 a.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A multiphase storm system will move through the country over the weekend, with the first phase occurring on Friday. A mix of freezing rain and snow along the Canadian border and scattered thunderstorms across the Midwest and Southeastern Plains are occurring Friday. Winds may be breezy in the Plains, but strong, damaging winds are not expected with this storm.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 27, 2025 |
Groups Call for Shipping Exemptions Groups like the National Corn Growers Association are asking the Trump administration to grant exemptions on bulk shipments for America’s commodity groups as it considers implementing fees on Chinese vessels. The goal is to level the playing field between U.S. and Chinese shipbuilders. “Adding further financial strain through higher transportation costs will bring instability for our members, particularly those who depend on global export markets to remain competitive,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office also seeking an exemption for agricultural exports from both newly proposed fees on Chinese vessels and graduated sourcing requirements for U.S.-built and flagged vessels. The group wants the exemptions in place until U.S. ship production can meet the requirements to keep U.S. agriculture competitive in the global market. “Efficient and reliable export transportation is critical to agricultural viability,” says RFA President Geoff Cooper. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Outlines Trade Priorities in Hearing National Cattlemen’s Beef Association member Robby Kirkland testified before the House Ways and Means Committee about the association’s trade priorities. He spoke at a hearing titled “American Trade Negotiation Priorities” and highlighted the benefits of past trade agreements for U.S. cattle producers and the need for greater access to foreign markets. “Unfortunately, the previous administration stepped back from market access negotiations while our competitors negotiated robust trade agreements and gained advantages in overseas markets,” he said. “It’s past time to re-engage in trade talks to secure preferential and expanded access with our allies in the United Kingdom and key markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.” He also told the committee that any country granted access to the U.S. doesn’t put America’s consumers and cattle herds at risk. “There’s a major concern with countries like Brazil and Paraguay, who have a history of Foot-and-Mouth Infection,” he said. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds New NRCS Chief The National Association of Conservation Districts applauds the appointment of Aubrey Bettencourt to serve as Chief of the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Bettencourt will lead NRCS staff and conservation programs that provide critical resources and technical assistance to America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners to invest in their operations to improve working lands conservation, increase the competitiveness of American agriculture, and improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and wildlife habitats. “Our country’s 3,000 local conservation districts play a vital role in the effective administration of NRCS conservation programs, and they stand ready to work closely with Chief Bettencourt to serve our producers and champion the effectiveness of voluntary, locally led conservation,” says National Association of Conservation Districts President Gary Blair. “Her experience in farming, conservation, and government programs will enable her to be highly effective.” Bettencourt is a third-generation farmer and recently worked for an irrigation technology firm. *********************************************************************************** USDA Delivers on Rural Energy Commitments Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the agency would release previously obligated funding under the Rural Energy for America Program, Empowering Rural America, and Powering Affordable Clean Energy programs. Recipients will have 30 days to review and voluntarily revise their project plans to align with the “Unleashing American Energy Executive Order.” This process gives rural electric providers and small businesses the opportunity to refocus their projects on expanding American energy production while eliminating DEI and climate mandates embedded in previous proposals. Respondents will be asked to answer several questions and provide a short narrative description of any proposed changes. “This allows us to tackle America’s energy emergence and allows energy providers and small businesses to realign their projects with that mission,” Rollins said. The broader guidance reflects a shift away from the Green New Deal and the Inflation Reduction Act and toward investments that prioritize the needs of rural communities. *********************************************************************************** Common Sense Butterfly Conservation Efforts Yielding Results The Texas Department of Agriculture announced good news about monarch butterfly conservation. The eastern monarch butterfly population nearly doubled in 2025, according to the latest World Wildlife Fund survey. The survey shows that the population wintering in central Mexico’s forest occupied 4.42 acres, up from 2.22 acres the previous winter. “This is exactly the kind of result we can achieve when we focus on real solutions instead of heavy-handed mandates,” said Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller. “Texans have always been good stewards of the land, and farmers, ranchers, and private landowners are crucial in preserving monarch habitat without excessive government overreach.” He added that there’s a need for policies to empower conservation partnerships rather than penalize the people already making a difference. The monarch butterfly survey is a key indicator of the species’ population health. Scientists say improved weather conditions along their migration routes are a key to the population growth. *********************************************************************************** Beef Advocacy Strengthened with New Trailblazers After a competitive application process, ten new Trailblazers have been selected for the program’s fourth cohort of beef community spokespeople. The Trailblazers program was developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. It takes advocacy to an unprecedented level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths. Current participants collaborate with a collection of 40 previous Trailblazers to promote community, mentorship, and connection and continue creating opportunities to elevate voices at the grassroots level. “We are entering our fourth year of the Trailblazers program and continue to see an overwhelming response of interest and an increased number of applications from beef community members,” said Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development at NCBA. Trailblazers receive in-depth training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews, and understand how to build confidence in beef-related practices when talking to consumers.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 27, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Q4 GDP second revision at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Argentina Crop Report at 12 p.m. CDT Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report at 2 p.m. CDT Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CDT Weather Streaks of showers and thunderstorms will continue to build across the middle of the country on Thursday, which could lead to small areas of heavy rain and a few severe wind and hail reports. A bigger system is moving through the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Prairies with more widespread precipitation.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 26, 2025 |
Farmers Concerned About Proposed USTR Shipping Rules The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office launched an investigation into China’s efforts to dominate the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. After an investigation, the USTR released proposed actions, including assessing fees up to $1.5 million on ships arriving at U.S. ports if the ships are Chinese-built, operated or flagged. A comment period is open for the proposal, and farmers say imposing fees will only increase costs for U.S. farmers importing inputs like seed and fertilizer and getting crops to market overseas. The American Soybean Association estimated the cost of a $1 million fee on soybean exports. For ships loaded with 70,000 metric tons of soybeans, vessels going from the Pacific Northwest to China would see a cost increase from $11.90 per bushel to $12.29 a bushel. Farmers also point out that U.S. competitors like Brazil and Argentina will not be subject to those same regulations and have a distinct advantage. *********************************************************************************** Democrats Ask USDA About Food Bank Funding Cancelation Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Ag Committee, led 25 colleagues in pressing the USDA for information about previously approved funding for food banks and other emergency providers. USDA’s taking away funds from the Emergency Food Assistance Program hurts hungry Americans who already face high grocery prices and hurts American farmers getting squeezed by tariffs and other cuts to domestic markets. “Canceling these funds could result in $500 million in lost food provisions to feed millions of Americans at a time when the need for food shelves is extremely high due to costly groceries and an uncertain economy,” the senators said in a letter to Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins. “This major shift in a program utilized by emergency food providers in every state in the nation will have a significant and damaging impact upon the millions of people who depend on this program for critical food assistance.” *********************************************************************************** Groups Ask for Permanent Extension of Section 199A A large number of organizations representing farmers, ranchers, forest owners, agricultural cooperatives, and industry stakeholders sent a letter to Congressional leaders regarding Section 199A in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. “We urge Congress to permanently extend the expiring 199A provision within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017,” they said. Section 199A has been essential in keeping co-ops and their farmer members competitive with corporations that have benefited from the permanently reduced corporate tax rate in the 2017 Act. Each year, farmer cooperatives pass roughly 95 percent of the benefits, totaling over $2 billion, directly back to farmers across rural America. The deduction has fueled job creation, economic growth, and rural investment. “However, without congressional action, Section 199A will expire at the end of 2025, leaving farmers with significantly higher tax burdens, including many who would face double-digit increases,” the letter adds. “Support families by making Section 199A permanent.” *********************************************************************************** Americans See Meat as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle Meat sales hit a record high of $104.6 billion in 2024. The pounds sold increased by 2.3 percent compared to 2023, and consumers, on average, purchase meat more than once per week. That keeps meat the largest fresh department in grocery stores. The 20th annual Power of Meat Report says almost all (98 percent) American households purchase meat, and 73 percent of Americans view meat as an overall healthy choice. Getting enough protein is important to 90 percent of Americans, and animal proteins, including eggs (83 percent), chicken (82 percent), and beef (76 percent), top the list of foods that most consumers view as protein-rich foods. “As shoppers’ definition of value has expanded to include price, quality, relevance, convenience, and experience, they’re including meat in 90 percent of home-cooked dinners and want options that suit their interests,” says Rick Stein, vice president of fresh foods for The Food Industry Association. *********************************************************************************** Exports Inspections of Corn and Wheat Decline The USDA says inspections of corn and wheat for export were down week to week while soybean assessments increased during the seven days that ended on March 20. Corn inspections that week totaled 1.46 million metric tons. The agency says that’s down from 1.69 million tons a week earlier but still ahead of the 1.26 million tons assessed during the same week in 2024. Wheat assessments were reported at 484,700 metric tons, down from just over 495,000 tons during the prior week but up from the 432,764 tons in the same week last year. The USDA says soybean inspections rose to 822,214 metric tons from almost 658,000 tons the previous week and 785,600 tons at the same point last year. Soybean inspections since the beginning of September total 39.9 million metric tons, 32.4 million metric tons of corn, and wheat since June 1 is at 16.9 million metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Groups Call for Trade De-escalation The National Farmers Union and Coldiretti issued a joint declaration and letter to President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding trade. The groups are concerned about the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and the European Union. “Farmers on both sides of the Atlantic are feeling the stress and uncertainty from the threat of tariffs,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “Trade tensions will raise costs, disrupt supply chains, and restrict markets, causing farmers, consumers, and businesses to suffer.” The groups are asking leaders to begin negotiations as soon as possible to prevent further economic hardships for American and European farmers and communities. A statement from Coldiretti says the trade war puts all agricultural producers at risk and must be stopped before it causes further damage. Coldiretti is the leading organization representing agricultural entrepreneurs in Italy and Europe. NFU is the second-largest farm group in the U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 26, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Durable goods orders at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weather A couple of streaky areas of showers are forecast for Wednesday. Some across the Southern Plains early in the day, more across the western Corn Belt later in the day. A bigger storm will move into the Pacific Northwest late in the day, which could produce severe weather.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 25, 2025 |
U.S. Rapidly Increasing Egg Imports to Combat High Prices The U.S. has almost doubled egg imports from Brazil and is considering relaxing regulations for eggs laid by chickens raised for meat. The moves come as the Trump Administration is trying to lower record-high egg prices caused by avian influenza. Reuters says the administration is also pushing for more imports from countries like Turkey and South Korea, which usually send few eggs to the U.S., and has asked the EU to send more eggs. None of the Brazilian or broiler chicken eggs will make it to the grocery store, but they could be used in more processed foods like cake mixes, ice cream, or salad dressing, freeing up more fresh eggs for American shoppers. Ag Secretary Brook Rollins has said they’re talking about importing hundreds of millions of eggs in the short term. It’s significant enough that it will help continue to bring the prices down in the short term. *********************************************************************************** President Signs EO to Increase Potash, Other Mineral Production President Donald Trump signed an executive order to increase domestic production of critical minerals, including potash. The president directed federal agencies to compile lists of pending mineral projects and expedite their review in coordination with the National Energy Dominance Council led by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. The president also directed Burgum to prioritize critical mineral production on federal lands over other activities. The Interior Secretary can determine whether other minerals, such as coal, are covered by the order. A White House Official told CNBC that Trump would utilize the Defense Production Act to increase mineral production. President Joe Biden also used the DPA to boost the nation’s critical mineral output in 2022. The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation will fund new production projects through a dedicated critical minerals allocation in cooperation with the Defense Department. The U.S. Geological Survey says America imported 91 percent of its potash in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Report Called “Bullish” The U.S. Cattle on Feed Report showed the U.S. beef herd was down two percent from the previous year. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head of cattle totaled 11.6 million head on March 1, 2025. Placements in feedlots during February totaled 1.55 million head, 18 percent below the total in 2024.Net placements totaled 1.49 million head. Placements of cattle and calves under 600 pounds hit 295,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 275,000 head, 700-799 pounds totaled 415,000 head, 800-899 pounds reached 389,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 130,000 head and 1,000 pounds and greater were 50,000 head. Fed cattle marketings in February totaled 1.63 million head, nine percent below last year. Other disappearances totaled 60,000 head during February, seven percent above 2024. A DTN analyst says there is no doubt the report should be called “bullish.” *********************************************************************************** ASI Wants Imported Lamb to Be Included in Tariffs The American Sheep Industry Association will continue to request that the White House and Congress include Australian and New Zealand lamb in the food and agriculture tariff plans during its annual fly-in this week. Fifty sheep industry leaders representing ASI and 16 of its state affiliates will descend on the nation’s capital Tuesday through Thursday to meet with congressional and administration officials to promote the sheep industry request. ASI says it’s crucial to find support in addressing the surge in foreign lamb and include lamb imports in the agriculture-food tariff plan expected to be announced on April 2 to ensure consumers have access to American lamb, as well as the future sustainability of the American sheep and lamb industry. ASI is also encouraged that the Trump administration is pursuing tariff action on food and agricultural imports, and the fly-in timing appears perfect for talking with officials about the topic. *********************************************************************************** Ag Industry Leaders Debut ESA Workplan Resources CropLife America, the Ag Retailers Association, and the Distributors of Agrotechnology announced the release of a new resource designed to assist farmers and ag retailers in navigating the upcoming changes to pesticide labels. The changes are taking place under the Environmental Protection Agency’s Endangered Species Act Workplan. To support stakeholders, they’ve developed a decision guide that will facilitate the understanding and implementation of the updated label requirements. “Farmers and retailers play a crucial role in helping ensure pesticide products are used responsibly and effectively,” says CLA President and CEO Alexandra Dunn. “By our associations coming together to create resources, we aim to meet a need that helps stakeholders feel confident in navigating new regulations.” The groups encourage all industry participants to utilize the resource as stakeholders commit to responsible and effective pesticide use. People who want more information should go to the CLA website and click on the ESA page. *********************************************************************************** Producer Team Explores Mexican Market A team of livestock and grain producers traveled with the U.S. Meat Export Federation to Monterrey, Mexico for a firsthand look at market conditions and to participate in a local trade show. The group also visited a broad selection of retail outlets featuring U.S. beef, pork, and lamb, ranging from traditional markets to Costco, as well as high-end grocery stores and butcher shops. David Hardin, a corn, soybean, and pork producer from Indiana, says the interactions showed that while Mexico is a well-developed market, there is still potential for growth, particularly for the higher-value products. Matthew Lucas, an Indiana grain and pork producer, says the trip gave him a close-up view of the growing competition in Mexico and the work USMEF does to defend the U.S. industry’s hard-earned position as the market’s top red meat supplier. Mexico was the top destination for American pork last year at a record 1.15 million metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 25, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Confidence at 8 a.m. CDT ERS Food Price Outlook at 8 a.m. CDT Weather A few very small disturbances are bringing a couple of streaks of showers through parts of the Corn Belt on Tuesday. In general, amounts should be light, though there could be a couple of spots that pick up some moderate rain. More thunderstorms will develop overnight in parts of the Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 24, 2025 |
Fertilizer Institute Applauds Action on Critical Minerals The Fertilizer Institute thanked President Donald Trump for including Potash alongside critical minerals in an Executive Order. This designation, combined with the provisions in the EO, sets into place a framework to ensure that Potash and America’s other critical mineral resources are leveraged to create jobs and fuel American prosperity. The Order will also help ensure a stable and abundant supply of fertilizers, which are critical to maintaining the global competitiveness of U.S. farmers, strengthening rural economies, and keeping food prices in check. “This forward-looking action by the president to recognize potash as a critical mineral will help ensure U.S. farmers have access to the essential nutrients they need to grow the crops that feed our nation,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. He also said 98 percent of annual U.S. potash consumption comes from imports. Despite having natural reserves, the U.S. accounts for only 0.2 percent of global supply. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Sorghum Graded at No. 1 Certification The U.S. Grains Council released its 2024-2025 Sorghum Quality Report, which shows that U.S. sorghum was, on average, graded above the requirements for U.S. No. 1 certification. “The Council’s mission is to develop markets, enable trade, and improve lives, and what better way to support that mission than to offer transparent reports on grain quality as a service to our partners worldwide to help them make the best purchasing decisions,” said Verity (VER-ih-tee) Ulibarri (oo-lih-BAR-ee), USGC Chair. “We hope it provides valuable information for them.” Total sorghum damage came in at 0.3 percent in the aggregate, and no heat damage was observed in samples. Kernel diameter, an indicator of maturity and resiliency, was similar to last year and the five-year average of previous reports. Also, tannins were absent from the sorghum samples for the sixth consecutive year, and starch and oil content both increased from last year’s crop. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Commends USDA on Interim Rule for Climate-Smart Ag Last week, Clean Fuels Alliance America submitted comments in support of USDA on its “Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks Interim Rule.” Clean Fuels recommends the USDA incorporate intermediate oil crops, such as winter canola, as a conservation crop rotation practice. Clean Fuels also urges the agency to ensure that the standards and requirements in the Clean-Smart Agriculture program are complementary to the requirements for other USDA programs, particularly crop insurance. “By establishing these technical guidelines, USDA is creating a novel market opportunity for U.S. farmers to distinguish their produce and bring additional revenue to rural America,” Clean Fuels wrote in its comments. Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels, says, “Biofuels are essential to farm security and prosperity. Farmers have a financial stake in employing conservation practices and expanding oilseed crops that will unleash American biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel growth.” *********************************************************************************** Argentina Cuts Soybean Forecast by One Million Tons One of the top grain exchanges in Argentina dropped its forecast for the soybean crop by one million metric tons. The impact of a drought is becoming clearer on the 2024-2025 soybean crop. The Buenos Aires exchange now predicts the crop’s output to reach 48.6 million tons. That’s down from its prediction of 49.6 million tons published a week earlier. Argentina is the world’s largest exporter of soybean oil and meal. The lower output was due to a drought that reduced yields in the country’s northeast region. “High temperatures and the prolonged water deficit have caused heat and water stress in the Northeast Area,” the exchange said in its weekly report. “These adverse conditions have impacted plant stands and the growth of reproductive structures, reducing yield potential by 22 percent.” Reuters also says approximately 10 percent of Argentina’s total area sown with soybeans is in the northeast, totaling about 4.6 million acres. *********************************************************************************** FSA Gets New Administrator The USDA announced Bill Beam as the next administrator of the Farm Service Agency. Beam is a Pennsylvania farmer and president of Rural Investment to Protect our Environment, or RIPE. The new administrator will work with the USDA to provide leadership and manage conservation, commodity, disaster, and farm marketing programs. Beam is the Owner and Operator of Beam Farms, Inc., a fourth-generation farmer raising corn, soy, wheat, hay, specialty crops, and beef in Elverson, Pennsylvania. He’s also a champion for conservation and a no-till producer and served as the Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs at the FSA from 2018-2021. He and his staff oversaw the implementation of the farm bill programs that help farmers, ranchers, and forest stewards manage market risks, recover from disasters, and conserve and protect natural resources with the help of over 2,100 state and county FSA offices, and helped oversee the implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates Public on Avian Flu Strategy Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins hosted a stakeholder update to provide a progress report on USDA’s five-pronged strategy to combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and lower egg prices. Less than a month after the plan’s rollout, USDA reports significant advancements across all five areas. “Egg prices are falling, farmers are getting some relief, and we are seeing meaningful progress in the fight against avian flu,” Rollins said. “USDA is making targeted investments and driving innovation to keep our food supply strong and affordable.” Since February 26, wholesale egg prices have dropped almost 50 percent. The New York wholesale egg price peaked at $8.53 a dozen before dropping to $4.08 as of March 19. While seasonal Easter demand may cause some fluctuations, the downward trend underscores the USDA approach is working. The five prongs of the strategy include biosecurity measures, expediting repopulation relief, reducing regulatory burdens, investing in research, and exploring import-export adjustments.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 24, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets S&P U.S. Services and Manufacturing PMI at 8:45 a.m. CDT Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Weather A system that brought some streaks of heavier rain and thunderstorms across the Central states over the weekend is moving through the East on Monday. Some snow will move through northern areas while the Southeast sees some heavier rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 21, 2025 |
NCBA Applauds Return of July Cattle Report The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thanked the USDA’s National Agriculture Statistics Service for reinstating the July Cattle Report, as well as the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock. These reports were discontinued last year but have provided critical data to farmers and ranchers for years. “The return of the July Cattle Report and County Estimates is a big win for cattle producers who utilize these reports to efficiently run their operations and make important marketing decisions,” says Tanner Beymer, NCBA’s Executive Director of Government Affairs. “NCBA thanks USDA-NASS for bringing back these vital reports and continuing to deliver timely, accurate, and useful transparency to livestock markets across the country.” NASS also says the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock reinstatement is effective for the 2024 crop season for corn, cotton, peanuts, rice, sorghum, and soybeans. It’s effective for the 2025 crop season for small grains like barley, oats, and wheat. *********************************************************************************** Proposed Fees on Ocean Carriers Bad for Farmers A proposal from the U.S. Trade Representative to impose new fees on ocean carriers with ties to China could take a major toll on U.S. farmers and ranchers. Two-thirds of all agriculture exports by volume are shipped overseas, and the cost of transporting exports to international trading partners could increase dramatically. In an effort to address China’s dominance in global shipbuilding and logistics, the Trump administration has proposed a series of fees as high as $1.5 million targeting Chinese-operated vessels and Chinese-built vessels that access American ports. “Depending on the fees set, bulk agriculture exporters could face an additional $372 million to $930 million in annual transportation costs,” says an American Farm Bureau Market Intel Report. Bulk agricultural exports, particularly grain and oilseeds, are especially vulnerable. “Farmers have lost money on almost all major crops recently,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “They cannot afford the extra costs these fees would impose.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant to Support Rio Grande Farmers Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $280 million grant agreement between the USDA and the Texas Ag Department to provide critical relief to eligible Rio Grande Valley farmers. The agreement comes as farmers and producers are being hurt by Mexico’s ongoing failure to meet its water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty. “Farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley have worked for generations to feed communities across Texas, the U.S., and beyond,” Rollins said. “A lack of water has already ended sugarcane production in the Valley and is putting the future of citrus, cotton, and other crops at risk.” She also says with the grant, USDA is expediting much-needed economic relief while working with federal, state, and local leadership to push for long-term solutions that protect Texas producers. Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller says the 1944 Water Treaty Grant Agreement rollout is exactly what Texas farmers need. *********************************************************************************** Over $1.6 Million Raised for FFA The National FFA Organization is proud to announce that its more than one million members, alumni, and supporters raised more than $1.6 million during the tenth annual Give FFA Day. The money raised will directly support FFA and agricultural education for local FFA Chapters, state FFA associations, and the National FFA as a whole. It’s the most money raised for FFA in a single day, following more than $1.4 million donated during last year’s Give FFA Day event. Give FFA Day was created as a way to make a difference in the lives of FFA members across the country, growing the next generation of leaders who will feed, clothe, and change the world. “By contributing on Give FFA Day, supporters did more than donate,” says Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation. “They became a part of a movement that empowers the next generation of leaders in American agriculture.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Grains Council Releases Export Quality Report The U.S. Grains Council released the 2024-2025 Corn Export Quality Report showing the average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors. “It’s difficult to understate transparency’s role in building trust between business partners, and the Council seeks to make detailed, accurate information about the quality of U.S. corn available to buyers around the world and facilitate international trade,” says Verity (VEHR-ih-tee) Ulibarri (oo-lih-BAR-ee), USGC Chairwoman. The report says the average test weight came in at 58.3 pounds per bushel and was higher than in 2023-2024 and the five-year average. Broken corn and foreign materials registered at 2.5 percent after moving through export channels, lower than the five-year average. All samples tested below the Food and Drug Administration’s action level for aflatoxins. The Council’s international offices will announce the results in a series of seminars for potential buyers. *********************************************************************************** EU Delays Retaliatory Tariffs The European Union delayed its first round of retaliatory tariffs until mid-April. Supply Chain Dive says the EU originally planned to lift a suspension on previously installed retaliatory tariffs on April 1. That would have been in response to America’s 25 percent duties on steel and aluminum imports. The EU will implement a new round of countermeasures by mid-April. An EU spokesman says this delay provides additional time for more negotiations with the U.S., but pushing back the duties won’t diminish their response. The delayed duties will cover 26 billion euros worth of American exports, including bourbon. The amount of EU duties is expected to mirror the $28 billion worth of economic impact from the U.S. tariffs. Last week, U.S. President Trump threatened to place 200 percent tariffs on alcoholic goods from France and other European countries, including wine and champaign, if the EU didn’t rescind its countermeasures.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 21, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets World markets retreated Friday after a lackluster session on Wall Street as investors remained uneasy over policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. Weather A weak storm system and cold front will move through the Midwest on Friday. Isolated showers will develop but will be light. Yet another system will move into the Pacific Northwest with more significant impacts east of the Rockies this weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 20, 2025 |
FFFT Celebrates National Ag Trade Day Farmers for Free Trade Board Chair Bob Hemesath commended the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and other ag leaders for recognizing National Ag Trade Day. It’s a day highlighting the vital role agricultural trade plays in supporting America’s farmers, strengthening rural economies, and ensuring the global competitiveness of U.S. agriculture. “Trade is essential for American agriculture,” says Hemesath, a farmer from Iowa. “Farmers and ranchers depend on exports and access to new markets to sustain their businesses and keep rural communities thriving.” NASDA’s National Agriculture Trade Day, recognized by more than 15 state agriculture departments, serves as a reminder of the impact agricultural trade has on state and national economies. U.S. agriculture, food, and related industries contributed 5.5 percent to the U.S. GDP in 2023 and supported 10.4 percent of American jobs. The day reinforces the need for policies that eliminate trade barriers and foster strong international relationships. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Would Lower Egg Prices Representatives Josh Riley (D-NY), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and others introduced “The Lowering Egg Prices Act.” The bipartisan bill would lower egg prices for consumers by cutting bureaucratic red tape that forces farmers to discard hundreds of millions of eggs each year. Federal regulations require farmers to refrigerate eggs immediately after they are laid. But that rule doesn’t distinguish between table eggs, which are raw products that need to be refrigerated, and breaker eggs, which are pasteurized for use in everyday grocery products like salad dressing, cake mix, and pasta. This has forced chicken farmers to throw away almost 400 million perfectly good eggs every year. The rule didn’t make sense when it was enacted and makes even less sense now when egg prices are too high. “The Lower Egg Prices Act undoes unnecessary regulations, puts hundreds of millions of eggs on the market, and lowers grocery bills,” says Riley. *********************************************************************************** Tariffs Don’t Solve Underlying Dairy Challenges National Farmers Union President Rob Larew discussed the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada and its impact on dairy farmers. He says policymakers are focused on U.S. trade policy without solving the underlying problems in the dairy industry. “Those challenges include corporate consolidation and continued overproduction,” Larew said. “Broad dairy tariffs don’t solve these problems; they destabilize the industry, drive up costs, and create more uncertainty for American dairy farmers, processors, and rural communities.” The number of U.S. dairy farms has plummeted by 84 percent since 1992, and tariffs only add to the uncertainty, making it even harder for family farmers to stay in business. “Canada’s dairy system operates differently, but rather than undermining a system that ensures fair prices for farmers, we should be advancing policies that guarantee U.S. dairy farmers receive a fair price for their milk,” Larew added. “Family farmers always feel the tariff impact first.” *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Trade Mission to the Dominican Republic The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications for its agribusiness trade mission to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, scheduled for July 13-17, 2025. Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in exploring trade opportunities in the region must apply by April 2, 2025. “With strong economic growth and rising demand for high-quality food in the Dominican Republic, now is the ideal time for U.S. agribusinesses to expand their presence,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitely. “This trade mission will connect U.S. exporters with key buyers and help them forge partnerships to tap into this dynamic market.” The Dominican Republic is the largest economy in the Caribbean and the seventh-largest economy in Latin America. Consumer-oriented products represent the largest share of U.S. agricultural exports to the Dominican Republic, with growing demand across several sectors like beef, pork, poultry, dairy, and related products, as well as fresh fruits and many other sectors. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Landowners Rally Against Eminent Domain Iowa landowners who oppose the carbon pipeline project from Summit Carbon Solutions rallied with renewed energy this week at the state capitol. The renewed energy comes after South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed a law blocking the company from using eminent domain to build its carbon-capture pipelines. Since the South Dakota governor signed the law, Summit has asked the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission to suspend its pipeline permit application. The Des Moines Register says Summit Carbon Solutions intends to build a carbon sequestration pipeline extending 2,500 miles across South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and North Dakota to connect over 50 ethanol plants. Several dozen Iowa landowners demanded lawmakers approve House File 943, which would eliminate eminent domain as a way to build carbon dioxide pipelines on agricultural land. Summit’s communications director told the Register that it’s “unfortunate South Dakota’s laws changed the rules in the middle of the game.” *********************************************************************************** Australia’s Beef Production and Exports Set Records Beef output and exports from Australia, the world’s second-largest meat shipper, are expected to set records this year amid increased slaughter rates for female animals. A USDA report from the agency’s office in Canberra, Australia, says production will be 2.65 million metric tons (carcass weight equivalent) in 2025, a 2.4 percent year-over-year increase and up from the prior projection of 2.56 million tons. That would be the highest level on record, topping the previous peak set in 2014. The agency says female slaughter rates are expected to remain at elevated levels, and the number of cattle on feed has risen in recent years. Grain-fed cattle tend to have higher slaughter weights than their grass-fed counterparts. About 38 percent of cattle slaughtered in Australia will be grain-fed this year. Beef exports are expected to rise 2.5 percent this year to a record 1.95 million metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 20, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CDT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Buenos Aires Grain Exchange -- Argentina Weekly Crop Conditions at 12 p.m. CDT Weekly Livestock Slaughter at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A system that produced a blizzard, strong winds, and severe weather for the middle of the country on Wednesday is much weaker now moving through the East. However, there are still some showers and thunderstorms as well as a little snow across the north. The next system is moving into the Pacific Northwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 19, 2025 |
USDA Expediting Direct Help for Producers On National Ag Day, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said the agency is issuing up to $10 billion directly to ag producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program for the 2024 crop year. ECAP will help agricultural producers mitigate the impacts of increased input costs and falling commodity prices. “Producers are facing higher costs and market uncertainty, and the administration is making sure they get the support they need without delay,” Rollins said. “With clear direction from Congress, USDA has prioritized streamlining the process and accelerating these payments ahead of schedule, ensuring farmers have the resources to manage rising expenses and secure financing for next season.” Authorized by the American Relief Act of 2025, the payments are based on planted and prevented planted crop acres for eligible commodities for the 2024 crop year. FSA will soon send out pre-filled applications. Find out the eligible commodities and payment rates at fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Applauds Line Speed Program The National Pork Producers Council applauded USDA’s plan to make the New Swine Inspection System increased line speed program permanent. “America’s pork producers thank Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins and the Food Safety and Inspection Service for the needed action that will provide financial security and more stability for pork producers,” says NPPC President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from Ohio. “Without this program, some pork producers could have incurred an additional loss of nearly $10 a head.” NPPC is grateful that USDA, under Secretary Rollins, recognizes that food safety remains without compromise while greater efficiency benefits producers and consumers. Under the new policy, FSIS will extend waivers that allow pork and poultry facilities to maintain higher line speeds, ensuring they can meet demand without excessive government interference. FSIS will also no longer require plants to submit redundant worker safety data as research confirms no direct link between processing speeds and workplace injuries. *********************************************************************************** Workers Union Opposes Line Speed Waiver Program The USDA announced new waivers to increase line speeds in U.S. poultry and pork plants. Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union, which represents over 15,000 poultry workers at facilities across the southern U.S., as well as meatpacking and processing workers in other parts of the country, reacted to the announcement. “Increased line speeds will hurt workers,” Appelbaum said. “It’s not a maybe, it’s a definite, and increased production speeds will jeopardize the health and safety of every American that eats chicken.” He also says the announcement by the USDA echoes the same lack of consideration they had for our essential food processing workers during the first Trump administration, and it will put all workers at risk. “Worker safety must be a priority, and these facilities cannot operate at these speeds without increased staffing, which cannot happen the way they are constructed now,” Appelbaum added. *********************************************************************************** All U.S. Pork Facilities Reinstated for Export to China The National Pork Producers Council is pleased to announce successful efforts to renew registrations of all 300-plus U.S. pork harvesting and cold storage facilities eligible to export to China. “U.S. pork producers now have maintained access and increased certainty to export their products to the 1.4-billion-person Chinese market,” says NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. “NPPC’s leadership and focus on market access for U.S. pork is paying off, and we’re not stopping here.” Over the past few months, the USDA and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office have actively engaged with China’s General Administration of Customs to renew the registration of U.S. pork facilities that were set to expire or had recently expired. These U.S. facilities have been renewed to export to China for the next five years. Exports account for more than 25 percent of U.S. pork production and support more than 140,000 U.S. jobs. Pork exports totaled $8.6 billion in 2024. *********************************************************************************** CropLife America Supports Feeding the Economy Report The annual Feeding the Economy Report was released in conjunction with National Agriculture Day on Tuesday, March 18. The report is a farm-to-fork economic impact study that estimates the direct and indirect economic contributions of the food and agriculture industries on jobs, wages, economic output, and business taxes. CropLife America was pleased to work with 36 other food and agriculture groups to sponsor the report. “The Feed the Economy Report spans the entire food chain and is an incredibly useful tool to share the economic contributions of the agricultural industry with lawmakers and American consumers,” says Alexandra Dunn, CLA President and CEO. “We are very proud of the role our members play in supporting a safe, affordable, and healthy food supply for American families and many people around the world.” CLA is a group committed to advocating for science-based policies that enable farmers to continue producing safe, affordable, and sustainable food. *********************************************************************************** Stakeholders Celebrate National Agriculture Day on Tuesday Several groups and individual stakeholders celebrated National Agriculture Day this week. It’s set aside to celebrate the farmers, ranchers, and producers who dedicate their lives to feeding, fueling, and clothing the world. “Agriculture isn’t just an industry, but a way of life,” says UDA Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins. “I know that firsthand from growing up in agriculture and being a part of 4H and FFA shaped who I am today.” National Agriculture Day celebrates the fact that, through challenges and triumphs, the men and women in agriculture show up every single day. The Agriculture Council of America was formed in 1973 when the first National Agriculture Day program began. The organization is uniquely composed of leaders in the agriculture, food, and fiber communities dedicated to increasing public awareness of the vital role agriculture plays in today’s society. National Ag Day encourages the public to learn more about producing food and fuel.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 19, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT FOMC Interest Rate Decision followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A strong storm system continues to develop across the Central Plains and into the Midwest on Wednesday. A band of heavy rain and snow is developing on the north side of the system with heavy snowfall rates. Strong winds with the system will create blizzard conditions where the snow falls, and potential damage and dust storms elsewhere. Severe storms are forecast in the Midwest as well, with a focus on Illinois into Indiana.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 18, 2025 |
Courts Order Trump Administration to Reinstate Terminated Workers Federal court rulings in California and Maryland have ordered multiple government agencies to reinstate probationary employees who they say were unlawfully terminated under directives from the Office of Personnel Management. U.S. District Judge William Alsup of California found that the firings violated legal protections, while U.S. District Judge James Bredar of Maryland ruled that the Trump administration had failed to follow proper procedures for large-scale layoffs, including providing a 60-day advance notice. As a result, 14 federal departments — including Agriculture, Defense, Energy, Interior, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs — along with several agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, the Small Business Administration, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, have been ordered to offer reinstatement to affected employees. The U.S. Department of Agriculture released the following statement regarding the status of probationary employees: “The Department will work quickly to develop a phased plan for return-to-duty, and while those plans materialize, all probationary employees will be paid.” ************************************************************************************* USDA Cancels Local Foods for Schools Program USDA is ending two pandemic-era programs that provided more than $1 billion for schools and food banks to purchase food from local farmers and producers. About $660 million of that went to schools and childcare centers to buy food for meals through the Local Foods for Schools program. A separate program provided money to food banks. USDA said the programs are a legacy of the pandemic and no longer supported the agency’s priorities. “The COVID era is over — USDA’s approach to nutrition programs will reflect that reality moving forward,” a USDA spokesperson said in a statement. Proposed spending cuts to fund Republican’s tax bill include raising the poverty level needed for schools to provide universal free meals without an application. Restricting eligibility for food assistance programs and requiring income verification for free or reduced-price school meals, two proposals for cutting costs, would also likely cut out eligible families from accessing food, the School Nutrition Association said. ************************************************************************************* TFI Applauds Trump Action on Fertilizers The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) praised President Donald Trump for signing an Executive Order (EO) that continues his long-standing recognition for the importance of fertilizers to farmers and the overall U.S. agriculture economy. The President’s action ensures that Canadian and Mexican imports of fertilizers meeting USMCA preference status will be subject to no duty while this round of tariffs remains in effect. Additionally, the EO further establishes that potash imports from Canada and Mexico lacking USMCA preference status will be subject to a reduced import tariff of 10 percent. “President Trump has long been supportive of U.S. farmers and rural communities,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “As the important spring planting season kicks off on farms around the country, the President’s recognition of the critical nature of fertilizers will ensure growers have access to the vital crop nutrients that make possible bountiful harvests and profitable grower operations.” ************************************************************************************* Rollins: Aid to Hurricane Helene Victims is On the Way Tens of billions in aid for victims of Hurricane Helene should start flowing later this month, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins pledged last week, but delays are already making it hard this year for some farmers to plant crops. Congress set a deadline of March 21 to hand out the money when it passed a $100 billion disaster relief package on Dec. 21. The late September storm cut a swath from Florida’s Big Bend across eastern Georgia and upstate South Carolina before causing historic flooding in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. Farmers had hoped the money would come sooner, in January or February, so they could pay off creditors before planting season. Some have sold equipment or even land to generate enough cash to get new crops started. Beyond devastation to the cotton crop, the storm toppled pecan trees and flattened chicken houses in Georgia. Farming in western North Carolina is dominated by specialty crops including Christmas trees and nursery plants, with fewer growers covered by crop insurance. ************************************************************************************* Thune, Luján Reintroduce Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) recently reintroduced a bill to assist agricultural producers after adverse weather events. The Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act directs the USDA to improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which factors into disaster programs. "I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation that would make the Drought Monitor a more effective tool and help ensure USDA programs are using accurate and consistent data in administering programs that are designed to help the agriculture community," said Thune. Some of the information from the legislation would include clarifying state and federal grazing permit holders who are eligible for the Emergency Conservation Program and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program. One example would be the Farm Service Agency, which waives the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency. Another area was the BLM accepting archeological reviews completed by Natural Resource Conservation Service field staff during a drought emergency. ************************************************************************************ Honoring Aerial Applicators on National Ag Day As the nation celebrates National Ag Day on Tuesday, March 18, the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) is proud to honor the men and women of agriculture and the vital service that aerial application plays in aiding global food production. National Ag Day is a time to recognize the significant contributions that farmers, ranchers, aerial applicators and the entire agriculture industry make to our daily lives. For 104 years, aerial applicators have aided farmers in producing a safe, affordable and abundant supply of food, fiber and bioenergy, in addition to protecting forestry and controlling health-threatening pests. American farmers use aerial application to treat 127 million acres, approximately 28%, of cropland each year to control insects and plant diseases, as well as apply fertilizer and seeds. With aerial applicators’ efficiency and ability to attack pests or apply fertilizer and seeds over large stretches of acreage at just the right time, the yield benefits associated with aerial crop care are well documented.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 18, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing starts and building permits at 7:30 a.m. CDT U.S. Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization at 8:15 a.m. CDT March FOMC Meeting Weather Though there is a small streak of precipitation in Wyoming and South Dakota, it is quiet Tuesday morning. That is ahead of a system moving through the Rockies that will build in the Plains later Tuesday. Strong winds will develop throughout the day and a band of heavier precipitation will develop in the Central Plains Tuesday night, mostly as heavy snow. The two will combine to create blizzard conditions overnight into Wednesday which will extend into the Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 17, 2025 |
Brazil Raises Soy Crop Forecast Brazilian soybean farmers will reap an even bigger crop in the 2024-25 season than previously expected, according to forecasts released by crop agency Conab, as deepening trade tensions are likely to increase demand from China. Reuters reports Brazil’s soybean crop, which farmers are harvesting now, is expected to total 167.37 million tons, about 1.3 million tons more than in Conab’s February forecast and above an all-time record of 155.7 million tons in the 2022-23 season. Conab data showed that more than 105 million tons of that production will be exported, up 7% from the previous season. Brazil, the world’s biggest producer and exporter of the oilseed, competes with the United States and Argentina in global markets and sells most of its soybeans to China, which processes it domestically for oil and livestock feed. Chinese demand for Brazilian exports is likely to increase after Beijing imposed import levies on U.S. agricultural and food products, including soybeans earlier this month, in response to Trump administration tariff hikes on Chinese goods. ****************************************************************************** Trump Floats 200% Levy on EU Champagne, Wines, Spirits President Donald Trump has threatened more retaliatory tariffs on the European Union, proposing via social media a new, 200% levy on all EU champagnes, wines and spirits sent to the U.S., in response to the EU’s retaliatory tariff of 50% on U.S. spirits. President Trump said on social media outlet Truth Social that he would put the tariff in place unless the EU removed the tariffs it imposed on U.S. spirits on Wednesday. He called the tariff on bourbon “nasty” and said that this 200% levy “will be great for the Wine and Champagne businesses in the U.S.” The retaliatory tariffs the EU announced would go into effect in April and impact about $28 billion worth of U.S. goods, including spirits. The EU made this announcement — which in effect peels back decisions from 2018 and 2020 to continue to suspend tariffs on these goods from the U.S. — after President Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum products earlier last week. ****************************************************************************** Demand for Guatemalan Heirloom Tomatoes Could Strengthen Due to Tariffs The heirloom tomato supply is steady right now. "We have good supplies of our large Southern Select heirloom tomatoes and our supplies are slightly higher in accordance with our projections," says Charlie Eagle of Southern Specialties. The company's heirlooms are greenhouse-grown in Guatemala and therefore supply isn't subject to the seasonality that field-grown product is. "The conditions are favorable in this region with abundant sunlight and a temperate climate," says Eagle. On top of Guatemala, industry product right now is also coming from both Canada and Mexico–two countries whose potential 25 percent tariffs on product coming into the U.S. are on pause until April 2. "Demand may pick up for Guatemalan product as our government institutes tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods," says Eagle. Right now pricing is generally lower on heirloom tomatoes with good promotional opportunities available. Supplies are anticipated to stay steady. ****************************************************************************** U.S. Asks Countries to Help Lower Soaring Egg Prices The United States has reached out to Denmark and other European nations asking if they can export eggs as Americans face surging egg prices, the Nordic country’s egg association said on Friday. The request from the U.S. Department of Agriculture coincides with a raft of new U.S. tariffs on countries, including in Europe, and the threat of more. President Donald Trump has also threatened economic sanctions unless Denmark hands over control of Greenland to the United States. U.S. wholesale egg prices are shattering records as an accelerating outbreak of bird flu in laying hens slashes supplies. Trump promised to lower egg prices on his first day in office but prices increased 59% on a year-on-year basis in February, the first full month of his administration. A letter reviewed by Reuters showed that a representative of U.S. Department of Agriculture in Europe had sent formal inquiries to egg producing countries in late February seeking information on their ability and willingness to export eggs to the American market. ****************************************************************************** Canada Reinstates Smithfield’s Tar Heel, NC Facility for Exports Canadian exports from Smithfield’s Tar Heel, North Carolina facility have resumed. Two weeks ago, Canada temporarily suspended imports from this facility following an issue with a limited number of certain offal shipments. No other Smithfield Foods facilities or U.S. pork processing plants were named in the original FSIS announcement. News of the suspension came as President Trump announced temporary tariff exemptions for some Canadian and Mexican goods that are compliant under the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement until April 2. However, Smithfield Foods said at the time that the suspension of shipments to Canada was unrelated to the trade negotiations. In a statement, Smithfield said they are grateful to the USDA and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for a quick resolution of this matter. ****************************************************************************** US Produce Market Sees Mixed Price Trends and Rising Imports Produce movement and pricing across U.S. markets are showing mixed trends as import volumes shift and seasonal changes take effect. Avocado shipments from Mexico are increasing with varied pricing, and movement from Mexico's crossings through Texas is expected to increase. Trading is moderate. Prices of 32s are slightly higher, 84s and organic are generally unchanged, others are lower. Blueberry imports from Chile are rising and Peruvian volumes are beginning to taper. Movement of Chile imports, mostly via boat, through Philadelphia area ports of entry is expected to increase. Trading is moderate. Prices are unchanged. Strawberry movement remains steady but prices have dropped, and cucumber supplies from Mexico are climbing due to warm weather. Green bell pepper availability is stable, with higher prices noted across key shipping points. Movement from Central and South Florida is expected to remain about the same.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 17, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Retail Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Weather A weak system is moving across the Canadian border on Monday with scattered snow, but much of the country is rather quiet for the day with the intense weekend system now moving off the East Coast. However, the next system is moving into the Pacific Northwest with some showers and it'll be another big storm in a fairly active week of weather.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 14, 2025 |
EPA to Revise Waters of the U.S. Rule Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin says the agency will work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review the definition of the “Waters of the United States.” The agencies will move quickly to ensure that a revised definition follows the law, reduces red tape, cuts overall permitting costs, and lowers the cost of doing business in communities across the country while protecting the nation’s navigable waters from pollution. “We want clean water for all Americans supported by clear and consistent rules for all states, farmers, and small businesses,” Zeldin said while making the announcement. “The previous administration’s WOTUS definition placed unfair burdens on the American people and drove up the cost of doing business.” Given the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett vs. the EPA, the agency says it’s time to finally address the issue in a way that provides clear and simplified directions to all stakeholders in the discussion. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Applauds EPA’s Tailpipe Decision Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, commended the Environmental Protection Agency after it announced that it would reconsider its Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for model years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles, otherwise known as the tailpipe emissions rule. “We’re glad to see the agency reconsidering this rule, which arbitrarily puts its thumb on the scale for a single vehicle technology instead of embracing homegrown renewable fuels,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We look forward to working with EPA as they restructure these standards in a way that achieves the agency’s environmental and economic goals by maximizing the use of American biofuels.” Growth Energy previously submitted comments and an amicus brief objecting to the tailpipe emissions rule. As GE said in the brief, the benefits of biofuels are readily available right now, all while “enhancing energy security and supporting U.S. jobs,” and called the Biden rule a “missed opportunity.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Wants a Level Playing Field with Canada Senators from three U.S. dairy states are calling on the Trump administration to help level the playing field for dairy farmers as trade talks continue between Canada and the U.S. For years, Canada has skirted international trade agreements, including the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement, by blocking American producers from Canadian markets and exporting Canadian dairy products at artificially low prices, undercutting American dairy products and hurting U.S. farmers. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) sent a letter to the White House pointing out that Canada has failed to live up to its commitments to provide access to its market, and this remains the case even with new provisions in the USMCA. “In addition, Canada appears to be evading USMCA disciplines designed to deal with excessive exporting at artificially low prices,” the senators said in the letter. “Canada hasn’t lived up to its agreements for years.” *********************************************************************************** Egg Board CEO Talks About High Egg Prices The egg industry has been watched closely as rising egg prices and shortages in retail stores across the U.S. have drawn negative attention to the industry. Feedstuffs says the supply has gotten short enough that some stores are limiting how many packages of eggs customers can buy at one time, while restaurants are adding extra charges to diners who order items with eggs. Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, says the disruption in supply and rising prices are due to the continued impact of bird flu on the nation’s poultry flocks. The HPAI outbreak is in its fourth year of affecting U.S. birds, and it will take a “sustained period” with no additional HPAI detections on American poultry farms to help stabilize the egg supply. But demand is beginning to moderate ahead of the Easter season. Egg prices are down by almost 22 percent in the wholesale market. *********************************************************************************** EU Responds to U.S. Steel and Aluminum Tariffs The European Union placed tariffs on U.S. grain imports as a response to U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the EU. Reuters says the duties on feed grains will likely hurt the EU’s livestock sector, which relies on imports for its animal feed. While the U.S. is the biggest supplier of soybeans and a major corn supplier for the EU, the EU’s large trade surplus is a complaint for U.S. President Donald Trump. The European Commission earlier announced plans to impose tariffs worth an extra $28 billion on U.S. imports. This would involve reintroducing tariffs on goods like corn that were suspended after a previous trade battle during Trump’s first term in the White House and imposing duties on April 13 on products from a new list that does include soybeans. Livestock industry experts say tariffs on grain imports would “adversely affect resilience and competitiveness of EU Livestock.” *********************************************************************************** National Dairy Board Scholarship Applications are Open The National Dairy Board says it’s accepting applications for college scholarships that are awarded by America’s dairy farmers and importers. Applications are open for eleven scholarships worth $2,500 each, with one additional scholarship of $3,500, the James H Loper Jr Memorial Scholarship, going to one outstanding recipient. NDB funds, in part, Dairy Management Inc., which manages the national dairy checkoff program. Undergraduate students in their sophomore through senior year for the 2025-2026 academic school year and enrolled in college or university programs that emphasize dairy are eligible. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, an interest in a dairy-related career, and demonstrated leadership, integrity, and initiative. Applications must be filed no later than May 15. Candidates must complete an application form, submit an official college transcript, and write a short statement on their career aspirations, dairy-related activities, and work experiences. For more information or to fill out an application, go to dairycheckoff.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 14, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Sentiment at 9 a.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A massive storm system, deepening rapidly enough to be named a bomb cyclone, is moving into the Plains on Friday. Strong winds are developing around the low, which could exceed 80 mph in parts of the Southern Plains. The system will also be producing scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which may be severe as the system spreads moisture toward the Mississippi River Friday evening.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 13, 2025 |
Tariffs May Threaten Shift to More Corn Acres Industry experts have been predicting farmers may make a shift to planting more corn acres this spring due to tighter supplies and cut back on soybeans. However, recent reports say that President Donald Trump’s tariffs may mean America’s farmers might not make that shift after all. Bloomberg says levies on some products from Canada, Mexico, and China have shifted a key market indicator in favor of soybeans. Farmers need more inputs to raise corn than soybeans, and tariffs may make inputs like fertilizer much more expensive. An Iowa farmer told Bloomberg he’s considering scrapping the idea of more corn and fewer soybeans than usual this year. The corn-to-soy ratio is a key indicator of what farmers intend to plant in the spring and is currently about 2.2. That’s up from the low of 2.04 on February 19. A ratio of 2.5 or more means farmers tend to favor soybeans over corn. *********************************************************************************** Biofuel Champions Rally for Year-Round Ethanol Access Corn grower leaders joined Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Congressional biofuel leaders at a press conference on Capitol Hill this week. Ethanol champions came together to push for the passage of legislation that would extend consumer access to fuel with a 15 percent blend of ethanol. Eliminating barriers to high ethanol blends would be good for farmers and the economy,” says Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association. “That’s especially true as we face uncertainty in our foreign markets, and increasing demand for corn domestically would be a much-needed boost for farmers and rural communities.” The press conference came as leaders push for a way to use the legislative process to eliminate an obsolete policy that bans the sale of E15 during the summer months. “We are very disappointed that extended access to E15 was not included in the continuing resolution that passed the House this week,” Hartman added. *********************************************************************************** Sales of Ag Tractors and Combines Decline in February New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says U.S. sales of Ag tractors and combines continued to decline in February 2025, in contrast to last year. U.S. sales of agricultural tractors declined 17.7 percent in February, while U.S. sales of combines fell by 48 percent. “While the recent decline in agricultural tractor and combine sales reflect current market challenges, including global trade concerns and tariffs, we continue to remain optimistic about the long-term future of agricultural equipment,” says Curt Blades of AEM. “The resilience and adaptability of our industry have been proven time and time again.” Four-wheel drive tractors took the biggest drop, falling 41 percent last month compared to February 2024. In Canada, four-wheel drive tractor sales rose 237 percent from February 2024, while self-propelled combine sales dropped 32 percent during the same time. “We are confident that through innovation and collaboration, equipment manufacturers can navigate these challenges,” Blades added. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Inventory Sees First Increase Since 2016 The American Sheep Industry Association prepares an annual market report for the American Lamb Board that summarizes key statistics and trends in the sheep industry. Among the report highlights, the industry saw an increase in inventory. On January 1, the sheep and lamb industry totaled 5.05 million head, an increase of 20,000 head. Market lambs were up 9,000 head for a total of 1.288 million. The total breeding flock grew by 10,000 head to 3.68 million. While wholesale lamb prices remained stable due to favorable cuts, feeder and slaughter lamb prices fluctuated, especially in the latter half of the year, due to larger supplies. Retail lamb prices remained high, reflecting steady consumer demand despite inflationary pressures. Overall, lamb and mutton prices increased by 2.4 percent, driven by higher slaughter volumes. The 2024 lamb crop experienced an increase, with a lambing percentage of 105.9 percent, the highest since 2020. *********************************************************************************** NFU Convention Wraps This Week National Farmers Union concluded its 123rd Anniversary Convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, after the assembled delegates voted to finalize NFU’s 2025 policy priorities. NFU hosted over 450 family farmers, ranchers, and supporters in Oklahoma for the three-day convention. NFU President Rob Larew called this a “challenging moment” for U.S. farmers and ranchers. “Rising costs, corporate consolidation, and uncertainty around federal programs – including the lack of a renewed farm bill – are creating real hardships,” Larew said. “Through it all, Farmers Union remains strong, resilient, and prepared to turn the policies set at this convention into action for a stronger future in agriculture.” The finalized policy priorities approved by NFU delegates include three special orders on timely topics: Fairness for Farmers, Family Farming and the Farm Bill, and Family Farming and our Federal Government. “We are leaving Oklahoma City energized and ready to tackle the challenges ahead,” says NFU Vice President Jeff Kippley. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Hail WOTUS Guidance The Environmental Protection Agency released new guidance on the “continuous surface connection” definition under the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule, and cattlemen hailed the announcement. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart issued a positive statement in response to the guidance. “For years, NCBA has worked across the federal government – educating members of Congress, participating in agency rulemaking, and fighting for cattle producers in federal court to secure a WOTUS definition that protects both our nation’s natural resources and American property rights,” Hart said. “We are grateful for the administration’s efforts to further conform the WOTUS definition to the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett vs. EPA.” She also said they thank EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for his work to finally close a decades-long chapter of regulatory whiplash. Federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act is limited to the “Waters of the United States,” or WOTUS rule for short.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 13, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Brazil CONAB Monthly Crop Report at 7 a.m. CDT Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CDT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CDT USDA Feed Outlook at 2 p.m. CDT North American Grain and Oilseed Crushings Summary at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A big spring storm system is moving through the West on Thursday, with widespread valley rain and mountain snow. This system will continue eastward through the weekend and bring multiple impacts throughout the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 12, 2025 |
USDA Releases March WASDE Report The USDA’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report shows the 2024-2025 U.S. corn outlook is unchanged relative to last month. The big news in the corn market is the major global trade changes in 2024-2025, which include reduced corn exports for Brazil and South Africa. The season-average corn price received by U.S. producers is unchanged at $4.35 per bushel. U.S. 2024-2025 soybean projections are unchanged this month as well. The season-average soybean price is projected at $9.95 a bushel, down 15 cents from last month. The soybean oil balance sheet includes higher exports and lower soybean oil used for biofuel. The 2024-2025 wheat outlook calls for larger supplies, unchanged domestic use, lower exports, and higher ending stocks. Supplies are raised on increased imports, up 10 million bushels to 140 million at a continued robust pace. The season-average farm price dropped five cents a bushel from last month to $5.50. *********************************************************************************** A Campaign to Stop the EATS Act The Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action have launched a $100,000 ad campaign to fight the imminent reintroduction of the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. The groups say this legislation threatens states’ rights and family farms by eliminating state agricultural laws. The campaign highlights the growing concerns about foreign ownership of U.S. farmland, particularly by Chinese interests. “If EATS or anything like it is added to the farm bill or passed by Congress, it will be devastating for dairy producers across America,” says Deborah Mills, former Chair of the National Dairy Producers Organization and an OCM board member. Enacting the bill via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, paving the way for increased foreign control without necessary safeguards. “OCM is ready to roll up our sleeves to help prevent the EATS Act from being enacted in the upcoming farm bill,” says OCM President Taylor Haynes. *********************************************************************************** Mississippi River Mayors Lobby for Funding Mississippi River levels have risen in the lower basin again as snowmelt makes its way south. Mayors of cities and towns along the river experienced increased flooding, heavier rainfall, and more frequent droughts in recent years. Now, they are lobbying Congress for help. Members of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative traveled to Washington, D.C., to ask leaders to support funding for flood control programs and shipping infrastructure along America’s largest river. While the Initiative isn’t shying away from using words like “climate” and “resilience” in its policy goals, its members are uncertain how much federal support they can count on, given the recent government cutbacks. “We quickly learned to temper our expectations and look more aspirationally to how we can achieve these goals,” said Mitch Reynolds, Mayor of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and co-chair of the MRCTI. The group hopes the economic value of the river will ensure they are heard. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Attend Net Gen Conference in Florida The National FFA Organization recently hosted its first Next Gen Conference of the year in Orlando, Florida, March 4-8. Next Gen conferences help FFA student members map out future career opportunities in agriculture. The conference brought 75 high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors together to experience plant science careers and companies through informational sessions, roundtable discussions, and tours. “It’s always a privilege watching students attend Next Gen Conferences as they are eager to learn, network, and grow,” says Joe Martin, program specialist for advocacy, literacy, and ag-based experiences at FFA. “Once the conference is over, they’re even more empowered to continue equipping themselves with the skills they need to pursue their own individual goals.” Next Gen conferences are one impactful way FFA prepares students for the more than 350 careers in agriculture, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to make their best next steps after high school graduation. *********************************************************************************** National Farmers Union Launches Capital Innovation Fund National Farmers Union launched the Farmers Capital Fund, a $25 million investment initiative dedicated to supporting early- and growth-stage companies that accelerate agricultural productivity. In turn, that will help advance the economic success of family farmers and ranchers, who NFU President Rob Larew calls the “backbone of rural America.” By investing in innovative, economically sustainable solutions, the Farmers Capital Fund will promote cutting-edge technologies, operational efficiencies, and market expansion opportunities that enhance farm profitability. The fund is strategically aligned with the NFU mission of fostering a fair and resilient food system that benefits both producers and rural communities. The Farmers Capital Fund will focus on sectors ranging from ag-tech and automation to conservation, efficiency, and value-added food production. Investments will be guided by three principles, including economic sustainability, productivity, and profitability with an emphasis on solutions that reduce input costs, improve resource efficiency, and expand equal market access for farmers. *********************************************************************************** ASA Congratulates New Labor Secretary The American Sugar Alliance congratulated newly confirmed Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer (REE-mer). “The new Labor Secretary has been a strong advocate for America’s sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers, and we congratulate her on a well-deserved confirmation to her new position,” the ASA said. “We were honored to host her at last year’s International Sweetener Symposium, where she reiterated that ‘federal policies must ensure that our farmers and ranchers have the support they need.’” The group says America’s sugar industry is proud to offer good American jobs, many of which are union jobs and are often located in communities where other job opportunities may be limited. America’s sugar producers support more than 151,000 jobs coast to coast, drive $23.3 billion in annual economic impact, and provide a steady, affordable supply of sugar made right here in America. America’s sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and workers supply 75 percent of the sugar consumed nationwide.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 12, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets StatsCan Principal Field Crop Areas at 7:30 a.m. CDT U.S. Consumer Price Index for February at 7:30 a.m. CDT EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Weather Though quiet and warm east of the Rockies on Wednesday, a big storm system is moving into the West. This system will produce widespread precipitation and mountain snows, which could be hazardous in some areas. Strong winds will also be a factor.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 11, 2025 |
Consumers Worry About Tariffs and Food Prices Grocery stores and gas pumps are important inflation indicators. While inflationary concerns have been persistent in recent years, the back and forth regarding tariffs on Canada and Mexico, as well as the tariffs on Chinese goods, have prompted additional concerns about prices. Results from the Gardner Food and Agricultural Policy Survey find most consumers across both political parties expect tariffs to increase the prices they pay for food. This was highest for Democratic voters as 85.4 percent expected prices to increase, while 74.6 percent of Republican participants and 74 percent of Independent/Other participants also expected prices to rise. Results show that consumers are bracing for the impact. Just over 77 percent of participants responded that they are either somewhat or very worried about tariffs, and those who are worried about tariffs’ impacts on food prices are also pessimistic about short-term inflation, expecting inflation to get worse over the next few months. *********************************************************************************** China Turns Tariff Attention to Canada China recently responded to the U.S. increasing tariffs by increasing retaliating against American imports, and now, the Southeast Asian nation is turning its attention to Canada. China implemented tariffs on more than $2.6 billion worth of agricultural and food products from Canada. Reuters says the move is retaliation against levies Ottawa introduced in October 2024 and opens a new front in a global trade war. The levies announced by the commerce ministry will take effect on March 20 and match the 100 percent and 25 percent tariffs Canada placed on Chinese-made electric vehicles and steel and aluminum products just four months ago. The tariffs could be a warning shot as the Trump administration showed it may be willing to ease 25 percent duties on Canadian and Mexican goods if they apply the same extra 20 percent duty he has slapped on Chinese goods over the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Disappointed with RFS Delays Clean Fuels Alliance America expressed frustration over ongoing delays in the Renewable Fuel Standard program. The Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule to delay compliance with the 2024 RFS standards. The compliance deadline would have fallen on March 31. The rule also updates the definition of “biodiesel” in the program to reference the most recent quality specifications. “The biomass-based diesel industry needs policy certainty that supports our continued growth and contributions to America’s energy security,” says Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels VP of Federal Affairs. “In response to the proposed waiver of cellulosic volumes, Clean Fuels asked the EPA to make decisions on outstanding small refinery exemptions to assess the political impact on 2024 RIN availability.” It’s also frustrating that the EPA is delaying important program decisions and adding to the uncertainty for the entire industry. Last year, Clean Fuels petitioned the EPA to reconsider its low diesel volumes for 2024 and 2025. ********************************************************************************** Thousands of Farmers Call for Immediate Action on E15 A letter signed by 9,000 corn growers and advocates from 47 states was sent to House and Senate leadership last week on year-round E15. The letter urges Congress to remove an obsolete federal policy preventing the sale of E15 during the summer months. “A legislative solution for consumers to access year-round E15 comes at no cost yet would provide critical support to our nation’s energy sector, overdue relief for American families, and provide necessary economic security to rural communities,” the letter said. “Standardizing year-round E15 will increase corn demand by about 2.3 billion bushels per year.” NCGA also says that considering about one-third of the corn produced in the U.S. is used for ethanol production, this demand creation will result in an impressive improvement in profitability for operations across the nation, and rural communities will reap the benefits. Congress fell short of an E15 fix late last year. *********************************************************************************** Rollins Surveys Damage in North Carolina Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins surveyed damage from natural disasters and met with U.S. Forest Service members in western North Carolina last week. Recent wildfires and hurricanes have caused significant destruction throughout the region. During her visit, the secretary toured the Blue Ridge Parkway to witness the devastation left by Hurricane Helene. She then received a wildfire operational briefing and participated in a U.S. Forest Service Roundtable with local leaders in Asheville, North Carolina. “I met with North Carolina residents who have suffered unimaginable loss from recent natural disasters,” Rollins said. “The U.S. Forest Service was well-prepared, assessing wildfire risks in advance and strategically positioning resources to respond quickly.” As a result, she said they were able to rapidly contain the wildfires. “USDA continues working closely with state and local agencies and first responders to support these communities and restore the public lands that many rural residents depend on,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Deadline Approaching for Peru Trade Trip The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is still accepting applications for its agribusiness trade mission to Peru, scheduled for June 9-12, 2025. The deadline is this week. Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in participating must apply by this Wednesday, March 12. “Consumers in Peru are eager to stock their shelves with world-class food and farm products,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitely. “This mission will offer a unique opportunity for U.S. exporters to meet that growing demand.” He also says the mission will help the U.S. agricultural community establish meaningful partnerships and unlock new avenues for growth in South America. Peru is the third-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports in South America. Since the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, bilateral agricultural trade has risen from $1.46 billion to $5 billion in 2023, a 242 percent increase. In that same year, the U.S. was Peru’s second-largest agricultural supplier, with a 13 percent market share.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 11, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report at 11 a.m. CDT Crop Production Report 11 a.m. CDT Weather Relatively quiet conditions are forecast for Tuesday, with the only real precipitation expected in the far Southwest. Though readings took a step back across the north from a passing cold front, temperatures are still awfully warm for most areas east of the Rockies for March.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 10, 2025 |
Trump Delays Tariffs for Some Mexican and Canadian Products, Lowers Potash Duty President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on Thursday postponing tariffs for products arriving from Mexico and Canada that are covered by a North American trade pact by a month, while lowering the duty to be applied to potash imports. Anything that was covered under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is exempt from the 25% tariff, until April 2, a White House official reports, including potash. There’s still the 10% energy tariff referring to the lower duty applied to Canadian energy exports. The president has also decided to reduce the duty rate that will apply to Canadian potash after April 2 to 10%. A senior administration official told reporters in the Oval Office that the decision was to protect American farmers. Around 38% of U.S. imports from Canada are covered by the USMCA agreement, while roughly half of those from Mexico are eligible, a senior administration official told reporters. ********************************************************************************************************** Global Demand Forecasts for U.S. Crops to Factor in Tariffs in Effect, USDA Says A monthly U.S. Department of Agriculture supply and demand report due this week will consider trade policies in place when the forecasts for grains and soybeans are issued, an agency official said on Thursday, as President Donald Trump suspended tariffs he imposed this week on Canada and Mexico. Grain traders and farmers will look closely at how USDA adjusts its World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, due on March 11, as tariffs have fueled worries the U.S. will lose export markets for farm products. The nation relies on exports and competes with rival suppliers, such as Brazil, for global sales of crops like corn and soybeans. Trump on Thursday exempted goods from Canada and Mexico under a North American trade pact for a month from the 25% tariffs that he had implemented, the latest twist in fast-shifting trade policy. The president has also imposed tariffs of 20% on all imports from China, prompting Beijing to retaliate against American agricultural and food products. ********************************************************************************************************** New South Dakota Law Prohibits Use of Eminent Domain for CO2 Pipelines South Dakota’s governor has signed a bill prohibiting use of eminent domain for pipelines carrying carbon dioxide, throwing a wrench into Summit Carbon Solutions' project to build a pipeline carrying liquefied carbon dioxide to a sequestration site in North Dakota. The new law injects uncertainty into Summit’s plans, which include 2,500 miles of pipeline through Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and the Dakotas that would carry liquefied carbon dioxide from 57 ethanol plants. The project aims to lower the carbon intensity scores of participating ethanol plants, which could help them qualify for federal and state incentives. A federal tax incentive offers $85/ton for permanently stored CO2. ********************************************************************************************************** Texas Farmers Hustle to Plant Corn While Winter Wheat and Oats Begin Heading Progress is being made planting corn in parts of Texas, and winter wheat and oats headed are being reported. Some corn has already been planted in parts of Texas. Rain in the forecast as March began pushed growers in central Texas to begin planting their corn crop in order to take advantage of the moisture. Central Texas saw a high level of activity this week to get corn planted before the rain arrived. The Texas Crop Progress report said that much of Texas experienced dry, windy weather during the week of Feb. 24–March 3. Rainfall ranged from trace amounts up to one inch with the Blacklands and the Upper Coast receiving the most rain, USDA reported. For those that didn’t get their corn planted before the rain fell, they will now need to wait for things to dry out to get their equipment in the fields. *********************************************************************************************************************** Trade Groups Applaud Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act Clean Fuels Alliance America and other groups representing agriculture and maritime fleets thanked Senate and House champions for introducing the bipartisan Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act. Sens. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) sponsored the legislation in the Senate. Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), John Garamendi (D-CA) and six others sponsored identical legislation in the House of Representatives. The legislation designates renewable fuel used in ocean-going vessels as an “additional renewable fuel” eligible for credit under the Renewable Fuel Standard. It will enable companies to preserve Renewable Identification Number credits (RINs) in the RFS program when renewable fuel is used in certain maritime vessels. “Global shipping companies are looking to U.S. farmers and fuel producers to take the lead in providing clean fuels,” said Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels. “This commonsense legislation will remove a regulatory roadblock and enable U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel producers in partnership with soy and canola growers to meet the needs of shipping companies at a competitive price. It will allow refiners and blenders to keep RFS credits for fuel used in ocean-going vessels that are currently being sacrificed.” ********************************************************************************************************** Bacon Sales Up Over Past 12 Months Bacon has experienced modest growth across the last year fueled mainly by an increase in retail prices. Over the past year, the bacon category has seen solid growth, with units up more than 2% and sales rising over 2.7%, according to Circana. That’s faster than the overall edible sales growth of 0% in units and 1.9% in dollars. It shows bacon dollar and unit sales are positive across the category, with the natural channels leading category growth. At the retail level, the banners that are embracing the “better for you” trends and including more of these SKUs in their bacon set have realized higher lift in their sets vs. those who have not. Melissa Myres, director of insights for data marketing company 84.51°, noted despite shopper’s concerns over inflation, more than 1 in 3 households purchased bacon at least once in 2024. “In some food categories, consumers state that they are buying in bulk and in larger sizes to save money, though for bacon, the smaller pack sizes—under 16 ounces—are growing at a faster rate than the larger pack sizes,” she said.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 10, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CDT No other major economic reports scheduled. Weather Well above normal temperatures are building east of the Rockies on Monday. Though a cold front will move into the Northern Plains later Monday, it should remain dry. The only showers are found across the Southeast with a departing disturbance.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 7, 2025 |
Trump Postpones Tariffs on Mexican Imports for One Month President Trump reversed course and postponed 25 percent tariffs on Mexican goods amid widespread concerns about the impact a broader trade war will have on the U.S. economy. The Associated Press says the announcement was made shortly after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had said tariffs on both Canada and Mexico would likely be delayed. Despite the Secretary’s announcement, no change was reported on the status of tariffs on Canadian imports. Trump first announced the tariffs in February, and this is the second time the president has postponed the import duties. “After speaking with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico, I have agreed that Mexico will not have to pay tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA agreement,” Trump said on Truth Social. “I did this as an accommodation and out of respect for President Sheinbaum, as our relationship has been very good, and we are working hard together on border security.” *********************************************************************************** Senators Ask Trump to Reverse Course on Tariffs Even though President Trump paused tariffs on Mexico for a month, duties still remain in place on Canadian and Chinese imports into the U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led 14 other Senators in urging President Donald Trump to reconsider his recently imposed tariffs that threaten American farmers, ranchers, businesses, and consumers. The tariffs on China and Canada will make it harder for farmers to sell their products, increase input costs, and make it harder for Americans to put food on the table. In a letter to the White House, the Senators said, “At a time when farmers operate on razor-thin margins due to low commodity prices and increased input costs, the chaos and uncertainty of these tariffs threaten their livelihoods.” It also makes it harder for farmers to sell their products and for people to put food on their tables. “Farm families should not be collateral damage,” they added. *********************************************************************************** USDA Ordered to Reinstate Over 5,000 Probationary Workers An independent commission says thousands of USDA employees terminated by the Trump Administration will return to their positions for now. The commission said their firing broke the laws that protect career employees from political influence. Bloomberg Law says the Merit Systems Protection Board found reasonable grounds to believe that USDA violated civil service laws when it fired over 5,000 probationary employees. The Board also ordered USDA to reinstate the temporary employees fired since February 13 because of performance while the Office of Special Counsel investigates the firings. Reuters says it’s estimated that over 20,000 federal employees have lost their jobs and another 75,000 have taken a buyout, of the 2.3-million-member federal civilian workforce. Probationary workers typically have less than one year of service in their current roles, although some of them are still long-time federal workers. The Department of Government Efficiency is spearheading a never-before-seen effort to shrink the federal bureaucracy. ********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Reaches Highest Level in a Month The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output rose to its highest level in almost a month while inventories declined slightly during the week ending on February 28. Production rose to an average of 1.093 million barrels a day during the week. That’s up from 1.081 million barrels a day, on average, and the highest since the week ending January 31. In the Midwest, output averaged 1.04 million barrels a day, up from 1.033 million the prior week and the highest level since January. The EIA says Gulf Coast production increased to 21,000 barrels a day from 17,000 the previous week. East Coast, Rocky Mountain, and West Coast production was unchanged at 12,000, 11,000, and 8,000 barrels per day, respectively. Data from the Energy Information Administration also showed that ethanol stockpiles fell for the first time in three weeks to 27.289 million barrels, down from 27.751 million barrels during the previous week. *********************************************************************************** Flows Increasing on Missouri River for Navigation Support The updated 2025 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. February runoff in the Basin above Sioux City was one million acre-feet, 91 percent of the average. “Runoff in the reservoir system was slightly below average for February, and the conditions across most of the basin remain dry,” said John Remus of the Army Corps of Engineers. “Mountain snowpack improved in February but is still below average, while the Plains snowpack, which was already below average, has mostly melted.” As a result, Remus says they are forecasting a below-average runoff year for the basin. The 2025 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 22.1 million acre-feet, 86 percent of the average. The volume of water stored in the Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System is at 50.4 million acre-feet, 5.7 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canadian Cattle Inventory Down One Percent All cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined totaled 97.6 million head on January 1, 2025. That’s down one percent from the 98.2 million head on January 1, 2024. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 41.6 million head, down slightly from last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. totaled 86.7 million head, one percent below the 87.2 million head on January 1, 2024. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 37.2 million head, down slightly from January 1, 2024. All cattle and calves in Canada as of January 1, 2025, totaled 10.9 million head, one percent below the 11 million head on January 1, 2024. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 4.34 million head and down one percent from last year. All sheep and lambs in the U.S. and Canada combined to hit 5.86 million head on January 1, 2025.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 7, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Unemployment and Wage Reports for February at 7:30 a.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A small storm system that dropped some heavy snow in Wyoming and Nebraska on Thursday continues through the Midwest on Friday, where showers will become more scattered as the day wears on. A second impulse to the storm will move out of the Southwest and into Texas tonight.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 6, 2025 |
Farmer Sentiment Rises in February The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 152 in February, 11 points higher than January. An improvement in the current situation on U.S. farms drove the stronger sentiment among producers. The Current Conditions Index hit 137, 28 points higher than January. The Future Expectations Index rose only three points in February to 159. This month’s Current Conditions Index capped a long climb from late summer and early fall 2024 when the index bottomed out at 76. A recent crop-price recovery, anticipated federal aid coming, and a strong livestock sector contributed to the optimism. The Farm Capital Investment Index jumped 11 points to 59 in February. This month’s rise in the investment index pushed the index four points above the November reading, which was taken just after the fall election. The February index was also the most positive reading of the investment climate provided by farmers since May 2021. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Group says FMMO Change Brings Fairer Milk Prices Dairy producers from across the nation celebrated fairer milk prices for farmers during the National Milk Producers Federation Board of Directors meeting, which concluded this week. They also pledged to work together to meet significant challenges on labor, trade, and other issues. Dairy farmers heard presentations updating pressing dairy issues, including the agricultural labor supply, trade, and H5N1 bird flu, which has been circulating in the nation’s dairy herds for a year. “The top two issues we have today are immigration and tariffs,” says NMPF Board Chair Randy Mooney. “Nothing else will mean anything if we don’t have enough people to milk our cows.” On trade, he said day-to-day turbulence doesn’t change dairy’s commitment to building exports. “We intend to play in the world market, and we will invest in the world market to do that,” he said. The group also celebrated the adoption of a new Federal Milk Marketing Order. *********************************************************************************** Soy Farmers are Frustrated with Tariffs Farmer members of the American Soybean Association do not support using tariffs, which now threaten important soybean export markets and raise input costs for farmers, as a negotiation tactic. “Farmers are frustrated,” said Caleb Ragland, ASA president and soy farmer from Kentucky. “Tariffs are not something to take lightly and have fun with.” He says not only do they hit family businesses square in the wallet, but they rock a core tenet on which trading relationships are built, and that is reliability. Farmers for Free Trade also reacted negatively to the new tariffs in effect. “We are deeply concerned about escalating tariff tensions and their impact on America’s farmers, ranchers, and businesses,” says Brian Kuehl, executive director of Farmers for Free Trade. “We are hoping that lawmakers from all parties will listen to their constituents, who are concerned that everyone loses when barriers to trade are put in place.” *********************************************************************************** BeefTech Producer Summit Talks Cattle Herd Expansion The beef market outlook, cow herd expansion, the benefits of data collection, and the value of technology in cattle production were highlighted during the BeefTech Producer Summit. Kevin Good of CattleFax spoke about the current state of the U.S. cattle herd and expansion possibilities. He talked about the record-high values during the past month, and thinks market highs are approaching within the next one to two years. However, cattle feeders may pay more than they’d like for yearlings and calves. Year-to-date, beef cow slaughter is down 21 percent, dairy cow slaughter is down four percent, and the cow market is within a few cents of last summer’s highs. The numbers suggest cow herd expansion is coming, but the heifer numbers tell a different story. “The challenge to expansion is heifers that will either be bred or intended to be bred in the coming year are at a record-low,” Good added. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Sees Improvement in 2026 After Profits Drop in 2025 Bayer anticipates a return to earnings growth in 2026. That prediction came after revenues dropped in 2025. Reuters says Bayer, which makes farming pesticides, says this year will be the most difficult in terms of financial performance, with net sales basically even with the prior year and a drop in earnings and free cash flow. “The company expects improved performance from 2026 onward,” says CEO Bill Anderson. He’s facing increasing pressure from investors to make good on restructuring efforts and turn around what’s predicted to be the third annual operating income drop in 2025. Beyond 2026, the company says it was aiming for an adjusted operating margin percentage in the mid-20s at its Crop Science division by 2029, up from 19.4 percent last year. Anderson is cutting managerial jobs, speeding up company decision-making, and slashing red tape. He reaffirmed delaying plans to break up Bayer’s diversified businesses for another two years. *********************************************************************************** Response Deadline for 2024 Census of Ag Horticultural Specialties Extended The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will continue to collect the 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties through April 18, 2025. Conducted once every five years, the Census of Horticultural Specialties is the only source of detailed production and sales data for U.S. floriculture, nursery, and specialty crop industries, including greenhouse food crops. Growers are encouraged to complete the survey online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail as soon as possible. The online questionnaire is user friendly, accessible on most electronic devices, and saves producers time by calculating totals and automatically skipping questions that don’t apply to their operations. The 2024 Census of Horticulture Specialties data will expand on the 2022 Census of Ag data with information on horticultural crop production, value of products, square footage for growing crops, and production expenses. Producers who receive the 2024 Census are required by law to respond, as it’s part of the Census of Agriculture program.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 6, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services at 7:30 a.m. CST Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Crop Progress report at 12 p.m. CST Weather The last bits of the major spring storm are moving through the Northeast and southeast Canada on Thursday and some breezy conditions continue with it. The next storm system will move out of the West and into the Central Plains throughout the day. A band of heavy snow is forecast to develop over Wyoming and Nebraska, extending a bit into Iowa overnight as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 5, 2025 |
Trade Wars Underway as U.S. Tariffs Take Effect President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports went live at 12:01 am on Tuesday. The 25 percent tariffs on imports from America’s neighbors were joined by an additional ten percent duty on Chinese goods, bringing that total to 20 percent. Reuters says the tariff actions launched new conflicts with the top three U.S. trading partners and may interrupt more than $2 trillion in two-way trade. China immediately responded, implementing additional 10-15 percent tariffs on certain U.S. imports and a series of new export restrictions for designated U.S. companies. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Ottawa would respond with immediate 25 percent tariffs on $21 billion worth of U.S. imports and another $86.2 billion if the tariffs are still in place in 21 days. “Tariffs will interrupt a very successful trading relationship,” said Trudeau, adding that they violate the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement signed during Trump’s first term. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups React to Tariff Implementation Many U.S. ag groups reacted to the President’s decision to implement tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union, says tariffs will have serious consequences for American agriculture. “We’re already facing significant economic uncertainty, and this only adds to the strain,” Larew said. Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of the American Fertilizer Institute, points out that 85 percent of America’s potash comes from Canada. “It’s an irreplaceable component of modern agricultural production,” Rosenbusch said. National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman, Jr., says farmers are already facing a troubling economic landscape due to rising input costs and declining corn prices. “We ask the President to quickly negotiate agreements with Mexico, Canada, and China that will benefit America’s farmers and address issues important to the U.S.,” Hartman added. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says tariffs and retaliatory responses will take a toll on rural America. *********************************************************************************** Rollins Announces Next Steps for Disaster Relief Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins spoke at Commodity Classic this week and announced USDA’s plan to distribute the economic and disaster aid passed by Congress last year. The Ag Secretary said the agency has completed the necessary reviews and released funds for the Environmental Quality Incentive Program, the Conservation Stewardship Program, and the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program. “We’re still reviewing other programs to make sure they are focused on making American agriculture the most competitive in the world,” she added. Rollins also announced a new economic assistance program called the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program, or E-CAP. “Congress gave us 90 days to start distributing the first $10 billion in assistance, and we are on track to begin applications on or before March 20,” she told the attendees. “We are simultaneously working on the rapid implementation of the $20 billion in disaster assistance due to weather conditions that were outside of farmers’ control.” *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Want Prop 12 Fix Reinstituted in Farm Bill National Pork Producers Council President Lori Stevermer testified during the “State of the Livestock Industry” hearing before the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. Stevermer emphasized the need for a federal solution for the problems caused by one state’s overreaching regulation threatening all of American Agriculture – California’s Prop 12. “It reaches far beyond California’s borders to include farmers in other states and even other countries,” she said during testimony. “The outcomes of Prop 12 defy common sense and create a patchwork of differing state regulations if Congress doesn’t act.” The NPPC President also says America’s 60,000-plus pork producers appreciate House Ag Chair G.T. Thompson addressing Prop 12 in his Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024. The House Ag Committee passed its bipartisan Farm Bill last year, which included 100 percent of pork producer’s priorities, and the NPPC wants it introduced and passed again this year. *********************************************************************************** Corn and Wheat Export Inspections Improve The USDA says inspections of corn and wheat for offshore delivery rose last week while soybean assessments dropped in the seven days ending on February 27. Corn inspections totaled 1.35 million metric tons, which is up from 1.17 million the week prior and the 1.15 million tons examined during the same week last year. Wheat assessments rose narrowly to 389,600 metric tons from 387,855 tons the previous week. That’s also higher than the 358,298 tons inspected at the same point in 2024. Soybean inspections totaled 695,158 metric tons, down from 878,615 a week earlier and the 1.16 million tons from the same week last year. Since the marketing year began, USDA has inspected 27.3 million metric tons of corn compared to 20.7 million a year earlier, 37.6 million tons of soybeans, up from 34.3 million, and 15.6 million metric tons of wheat, also higher than the previous year. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Growers Celebrate 75 Years The National Association of Wheat Growers celebrated the organization’s 75th anniversary during the 2025 Commodity Classic. “This event recognizes the hard work of those who have been part of the National Association of Wheat Grower’s history and reaffirms our ongoing commitment to ensuring that wheat growers and rural America can continue to thrive for generations to come,” said NAWG CEO Chandler Goule. The 75th-anniversary celebration brought together current and past leaders of the organization to reflect on its accomplishments and look ahead. During the event, the group discussed the future of wheat advocacy, including the continued efforts to get a long-term farm bill that meets the needs of today, including a stronger safety net. “As we look back at the past 75 years, it’s amazing to see what NAWG has accomplished,” says Keeff Felty, Wheat Growers President. “Our work is more important than ever to move the industry forward.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 5, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Factory Orders at 9 a.m. CST USDA Weekly Weather: State Stories including winter wheat crop conditions at 11 a.m. CST United States and Canadian Cattle and Hogs Reports at 2 p.m. CST Weather A big spring storm system continues to mature, bringing widespread showers to the Midwest and East for Wednesday. Strong winds continue to be an issue with the system as well, creating blizzard conditions where it coincides with the snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 4, 2025 |
U.S. Ag in China’s Sights U.S. President Donald Trump threatened China with an additional ten percent tariff, which would bring the total to 20 percent on Chinese imports. He accused China of not doing enough to prevent fentanyl flow into the U.S., and China responded by calling the move blackmail. As a result, Reuters says China is looking directly at U.S. agricultural exports as it prepares retaliatory tariffs, a move which raises the stakes in an escalating trade war between the two countries. The countermeasures are expected to include tariffs and a series of non-tariff measures, and U.S. agricultural and food products are expected to be on China’s list when made public. A researcher at the Oxford Global Society says China is the biggest market for U.S. ag products, and the sector has long been vulnerable to being used as a “punching bag” in times of trade tensions. The White House calls the situation “fluid.” *********************************************************************************** The SAF Coalition Applauds the Farm to Fly Act Allison Graab, executive director of the Sustainable Aviation Coalition, applauded the reintroduction of the Farm to Fly Act in the House of Representatives. “Sustainable aviation fuel is rooted in America’s agricultural sector,” she said. “The Farm to Fly Act expands opportunities for U.S. farmers and strengthens the Department of Agriculture’s role in developing sustainable aviation fuels.” She also says the Act will enhance the energy dominance of the U.S., drive rural economic growth, and reinforce American innovation in fuel production.” The Act was first adopted in the 2024 House Agriculture Committee Farm Bill. It would clarify eligibility for SAF within USDA’s Bio-Energy Programs, expanding markets for American crops through aviation bioenergy. Industry coalitions and associations, including the SAF Coalition, Airlines for America, the Renewable Fuels Association, and others, also support the bill. Multiple congresspeople, including Democrats and Republicans, reintroduced the Act to support SAF production through domestic agriculture resources. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Pork Exports to Central America Reach Record Levels U.S. pork exports to Central America were record-large last year, breaking previous highs in both volume and value. Lucia Ruano (Loo-SEE-ah Roo-AN-no) represents the U.S. Meat Export Federation in Central America. Ruano says consumer education programs, made possible through support from USDA and the National Pork Board, have helped position U.S. pork as a high-quality, center-of-the-plate protein. The record performance was achieved despite some obstacles in Panama, which has imposed a cap on pork imports that is inconsistent with its obligations under the U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement. This has frustrated importers in Panama and led to some product shortages, including pork ribs sought by the country’s restaurants. U.S. pork has full, duty-free access to all other Central American countries under the Central America-Dominican Republic-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. In 2024, pork exports to Central America increased 21 percent, reaching 166,000 metric tons. Export value climbed 29 percent to $523 million. *********************************************************************************** World Trade Expo Wrapped Up Last Week Attendees and exhibitors from around the world gathered last week in Tulare, California, for the 58th Annual World Ag Expo, the world’s largest annual outdoor agricultural exposition. The three-day show featured 1,274 exhibitors spread out across 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. The event also welcomed more than 100,000 attendees from 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 80 countries. Farmers, students, and ag professionals returned in large numbers for the 2025 show. Many exhibitors showcased live demonstrations, providing a more hands-on experience. The event offers a valuable opportunity for attendees to network while exploring the latest innovations in agriculture equipment, services, and technology. Autonomous solutions, electric vehicles, and AI highlighted the ongoing technological advancements in the industry. Over 80 educational seminars, demonstrations, and workshops were held over the three days and covered a variety of topics. The new Women’s Conference Pavilion also featured a series of sessions. *********************************************************************************** Targeted Grazing 101 If you’re looking to break into the sheep industry or expand an existing operation, targeted grazing offers an avenue of opportunity that continues growing in the U.S. The American Sheep Industry Association released a book titled “Targeted Grazing 101: Starting and Sustaining a Grazing Service Enterprise.” The new book offers those new to the industry a resource for getting started. Interviews with more than three dozen experienced targeted grazers led to the creation of a 300-page manual that will help aspiring grazers understand what it takes to thrive in the industry. “An earlier version of this book relied on a lot on the academic world, but this new version draws on more input from people who are out there doing targeted grazing on a daily basis,” says John Walker, Ph.D., who oversaw the review process for the new book. Chapters include Getting Started, Keys to Success, and many others. *********************************************************************************** Minneapolis Fed Survey Shows Dropping Farm Income Lenders responding to a fourth-quarter Ag Credit Survey by the Minneapolis Federal Reserve said farm incomes decreased broadly at the end of 2024. The outlook for the first quarter of 2025 was pessimistic, with survey respondents expecting a further decrease in incomes. District-wide, 89 percent of the agricultural lenders surveyed said incomes decreased in the third quarter from a year earlier, while only four percent reported increased incomes. Capital expenditures also dropped, with 69 percent of respondents reporting decreased investment in equipment and buildings from a year ago, though farm household purchases increased on balance. With weaker cashflows, loan demand increased, while the rate of loan repayment dropped, and loan renewal and extension activity increased. The district average cash rent for non-irrigated land decreased by almost two percent from a year ago, while irrigated land rents fell almost four percent. In contrast, cash rents for ranchland increased almost five percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 4, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets No major economic reports are scheduled. Tuesday is day one of the implementation of U.S. tariffs on Mexico, Canada, as well as additional tariffs on China. The markets will be watching closely for developments. Weather A big spring storm system is moving into the Plains on Tuesday and is already producing clusters of thunderstorms in the southeastern Plains that may be severe. Those severe storms will track east through the Delta throughout the day. To the north, colder air moving in will change scattered rain showers over to snow for the Central Plains and Upper Midwest. Strong winds will create blizzard conditions where they coincide with the snow, but strong winds elsewhere will also cause damage for the middle of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 3, 2025 |
Threatened Port Strike is Officially Off The final approval for a new six-year contract agreement between the International Longshoreman’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance was given by the ILA. The approved contract will run from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2030. Almost 99 percent of the ILA members voted to approve the agreement. “I’m pleased to announce that thousands of ILA longshore workers overwhelmingly supported this contract, and we now have labor peace for the next six years,” said ILA President Harold Daggett, who served as the Union’s chief negotiator. “Our ILA rank-and-file members are not only the greatest longshore workers in the world, but they’re the strongest union anywhere.” The agreement includes a record 62 percent wage increase, full protections against automation, a strengthening of the Union’s health care plan, and many other benefits. Daggett also praised his USMX negotiating counterpart Paul DeMaria, the lead management negotiator, for helping to bring about a settlement. *********************************************************************************** Ag Export Values to Drop in 2025 The value of U.S. agricultural exports in fiscal year 2025 is expected to drop to the lowest level in five years. USDA says shipments this year are projected to be valued at $170.5 billion, up from the $170 billion in the November 2024 outlook. That would still be the lowest level since 2020. Corn exports will total $13.8 billion, up from the prior forecast of $12.4 billion. Soybean shipments will reach $21.2 billion, down from the previous forecast of $22.6 billion and well below the value of last year’s shipments. Wheat exports will be valued at $5.8 billion this year, down from the November project of $5.9 billion. Livestock, dairy, and poultry exports will be valued at $39.7 billion in fiscal 2025, up from the prior outlook of $39.3 billion and ahead of last year’s total. Beef exports are pegged at $9.1 billion, and pork shipments will be worth $7.6 billion. *********************************************************************************** NFU Applauds EPA Decision on E15 National Farmers Union President Rob Larew reacted after Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin decided to uphold the April 28, 2025, implementation date for year-round ethanol sales in the Midwest. “Administrator Zeldin’s announcement is a welcome reassurance to corn growers and producers in the Midwest,” said Larew. “Expanding access to E15 year-round strengthens the American biofuels economy, giving farmers new market opportunities while delivering lower fuel costs and greater choice for consumers at the pumps.” Family farmers and ranchers outside the Midwest also look for federal guidance to build year-long markets for E15 and higher blends like E30. He also said NFU was proud to support the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act that was reintroduced in the Senate and the House. “We urge Congress to act swiftly to pass this critical legislation, ensuring stronger, more reliable biofuels markets and a more sustainable future for rural communities. *********************************************************************************** Mycotoxin Risks are Increasing Alltech released the complete Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis report, which shows that a combination of heavy early-season rains and late-season droughts created distinct challenges for crop producers in the U.S. and indicates the overall risk of mycotoxins is moderate to high. Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by molds and fungi, are more of a problem in agriculture than ever before. Over 95 percent of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, and usually with two or more. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they’re present. A proactive mycotoxin management program is essential, and the first step is always learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops, and species. “Corn grain and silage risk is somewhat higher across all regions of the U.S. than in 2023,” says Dr. Max Hawkins of Alltech. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Meets with Elected Officials on Capitol Hill The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition met with key lawmakers on Capitol Hill to discuss critical policies supporting the domestic growth and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel in the U.S. As part of SAF Hill Day, these meetings underscored the vital role of SAF in creating new opportunities for Americans, including opening new markets for U.S. farmers, generating new and well-paying jobs in rural communities, and promoting America’s energy dominance. “The SAF Coalition’s conversations with our partners on Capitol Hill reinforced the broad, multi-sectoral, and bipartisan support for SAF policies,” says SAF Coalition Executive Director Allison Graab. “By working with lawmakers and industry stakeholders, we can ensure that the U.S. will maximize the potential and benefits of SAF.” Throughout the day, Coalition members met with key Congressional leaders to advocate for long-term policies that will drive the large-scale production and adoption of SAF. The Coalition has grown to nearly 60 organizations. *********************************************************************************** Public-Private Partnership Will Combat Wildfire Risk Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that USDA is embarking on a new era to mitigate wildfire risk. Secretary Rollins, USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore, and Sierra Pacific Industry CEO Mark Emmerson announced a $75 million Stewardship Agreement for constructing and maintaining strategically placed fuel breaks in national forests in California and Oregon. This investment significantly expands upon unprecedented efforts to create a network of fuel breaks across private and federal land to protect rural communities, reduce wildfire risk, and pave the way for historic rural prosperity. “Protecting the people we serve is one of our most sacred trusts, and this partnership with Sierra Pacific Industries stands as a testament to that commitment,” Rollins said. The agreement will initiate the process to develop, construct, and maintain shaded fuel break projects over a three-year period in California, adding another 400 miles to the existing 2,200 miles of interconnected fuel breaks.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 3, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. ISM Manufacturing Index at 9 a.m. CST Grain Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST USDA Fats and Oils Report at 2 p.m. CST USDA Grain Crushings and Co-Products Report at 2 p.m. CST USDA Cotton Consumption and Stocks at 2 p.m. CST Weather It is relatively quiet early Monday with only some patchy showers in Illinois and the Lower Mississippi Valley. However, a big storm system is moving through the West and will move into the Plains Monday night, with widespread showers and thunderstorms developing. Snow will develop in the Northern Plains by early Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 28, 2025 |
Prop 12 Threatens All of American Agriculture Lori Stevermer, president of the National Pork Producers Council, testified before the U.S. Senate Ag Committee on the state of the U.S. agricultural economy. Stevermer highlighted the top pork industry issue, California’s Prop 12, a state regulation posing an “existential threat” to all of U.S. agriculture. “We must fix the problems caused by Prop 12, which has increased farmers’ operating costs, created business uncertainty, and raised pork prices at the grocery store,” she said. “We stand with farmers across the country and are grateful to have the support of both President Trump and President Biden in clearly and decisively opposing Prop 12.” Developed without input from pork producers, veterinarian, or animal welfare experts, Prop 12 prohibits the sale of uncooked whole pork meat not produced under the law’s arbitrary and costly housing dimensions. Other industry priorities she discussed included preventing foreign animal diseases, ongoing trade issues, and finding enough labor. *********************************************************************************** Farmers to Plant More Corn Than First Thought U.S. farmers are seriously considering planting more corn and less soybean acres this spring than they did last year. Both growers and analysts told Reuters that they’re hoping to squeeze out more profits and shield themselves from possible tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Frayne Olson, an ag economist at North Dakota State University, says when you look at the profitability of each crop, corn is winning in the acreage battle. Iowa State University economist Chad Hart says it’s possible that some farmers may be able to earn “a nickel or two” on every corn bushel. For soybeans and other crops, prices have fallen below what it costs to produce them. “Given what the cost structures look like right now, corn has the best chance to make a little profit in 2025.” Several industry analysts are forecasting corn plantings will rise to 93.6 million acres, while soybean planting dropping to 84.4 million acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Peru Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications for an agribusiness trade mission to Peru scheduled for June 9-12, 2025. Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in participating must apply by March 12. “Consumers in Peru are eager to stock their pantries with world-class, high-quality food and farm products, and this mission offers a unique opportunity for U.S. exporters to meet that growing demand,” says Daniel Whitley, FAS Administrator. “It will also help our agricultural community forge meaningful partnerships and unlock new avenues for growth in South America.” Peru is the third-largest market for American ag exports to South America. Since the 2009 U.S.-Peru Trade Agreement, bilateral agricultural trade has risen from $1.46 billion to $5 billion in 2023, a 242 percent increase. In 2023, the U.S. was Peru’s second-largest agricultural supplier with a 13 percent market share. Opportunities exist for beef, pork, and poultry products, dairy, tree nuts, and more. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Ethanol Supporters React to EU Court Decision Leaders of the U.S. ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel industries were disappointed by an EU court’s decision to dismiss a challenge to the ReFuelEU Aviation regulations brought by EU biofuel producers. The court ruled that ePURE and Pannonia Bio lacked the standing needed to bring the challenge that asserted the EU’s sustainable aviation fuel regulation illegally discriminates against crop-based biofuels. In May 2024, groups including Growth Energy and the U.S. Grains Council petitioned the court to intervene in support of the European biofuel interests. But because the underlying challenge was dismissed, the objections to the EU regulation raised by the U.S. groups were not considered by the court. “We are disappointed and strongly disagree with the Court’s finding that biofuel producers in the EU and U.S., who both manufacture the biofuels that become SAF, are not harmed or affected by the EU’s unfair and unscientific SAF requirements,” the U.S. groups said. *********************************************************************************** 2025 NASDA Policy Calls for Significant Labor Reform At its 2025 Winter Policy Conference, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture called on Congress to develop comprehensive strategies to address agricultural labor challenges and border security. The new policy item says comprehensive agricultural labor reform is needed to allow access to the H-2A program for year-round agriculture industries, creating a pathway to legal status for agriculture and agribusiness workers who are employed but may be under questionable status. “Labor shortages in the agricultural industry affect the entire supply chain, making it more difficult for the country to compete in the global marketplace and weakening our local economies,” says NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. “Given the range of agricultural production represented by NASDA members and the nonpartisan nature of our organization, NASDA intends to continue to be actively engaged on labor reform at the national level.” Other policy priorities include supporting farmers and increasing U.S. biofuel production levels. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Groups React to Update HPAI Response Plan The National Milk Producers Federation and the International Dairy Foods Association reacted positively to the USDA’s updated response plan for combating highly pathogenic avian influenza. “Dairy farmers and cooperatives appreciate USDA’s leadership in supporting American agriculture and safeguarding animal health as it deals with what soon will be a second year of H5N1 bird flu disruptions in dairy cattle,” says NMPF president and CEO Gregg Doud. “Dairy farmers and all of agriculture take biosecurity seriously, and we’re thankful for these actions that will further those efforts.” IDFA President and CEO Dr. Michael Dykes, says they’re grateful Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins invested up to $100 million in new and ongoing research into animal vaccinations and therapeutic tools to manage HPAI in the nation’s dairy herds and commercial poultry flocks. “We continue to urge the agency to quickly develop and approve safe and effective bovine vaccines to guard against the disease,” Dykes said.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 28, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA 2025 Ag Outlook Forum Day 2 -- Program begins at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditure for January at 7:30 a.m. CST Advanced International Trade in Goods at 7:30 am CST Mato Grosso (Brazil) Institute of Agricultural Economics' Weekly Crop Report at 1 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system will move through the Midwest and Great Lakes Friday, mainly leading to snowfall near the U.S.-Canada border. Gusty, northwest winds are expected through the Dakotas into the western Midwest, with gusts reaching as high as 45-55 mph. Gusty winds, dry air, and mostly dry conditions will lead to elevated wildfire conditions across South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 27, 2025 |
USDA to Spend One Billion Dollars to Curb HPAI Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $1 billion comprehensive strategy to curb highly pathogenic avian influenza, protect the U.S. poultry industry, and lower egg prices. This is in addition to funding already being provided to indemnify growers for depopulated flocks. As the Secretary outlined in a Wall Street Journal op-ed piece, she has a five-pronged strategy that includes an additional $500 million for biosecurity measures, $400 million in financial relief for affected farmers, and $100 million for vaccine research, action to reduce regulatory burdens and explore temporary import options. “The Biden administration did little to address the repeated outbreaks and high egg prices that followed,” the Secretary said. “The Trump administration is taking the issue seriously. American farmers need relief, and American consumers need affordable food.” Rollins also said, “To every family struggling to buy eggs, we hear you, we’re fighting for you, and help is on the way.” *********************************************************************************** Rural Mainstreet Index Hits New Low Due to Uncertainty For the 17th time in the last 18 months, the Rural Mainstreet Index dropped below 50 in February. That’s from the monthly survey of bank CEOs across a ten-state region reliant on agriculture and energy. The index fell to a concerning 38 in February, down from 42.3 in January. The RMI ranges from 0 to 100, with a score of 50 equaling growth-neutral status. Only nine percent of bankers anticipate positive outcomes for Rural Mainstreet resulting from President Trump’s tariff policies. “The economic outlook for grain farmers looks bleak for 2025,” says Ernie Goss of Creighton University. “While there has been a recent uptick in grain prices, it’s not enough for profitability.” On the other side of the index, regional livestock producers are experiencing good prices, with only nine percent of bankers predicting negative cash flow for ranchers in 2025. Farm equipment sales also dropped for the 18th straight month. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Would Crack Down on Foreign Purchases of Farmland Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced the Farmland Security Act of 2025 to help safeguard rural communities and protect American farmland from being secretly bought by foreign investors. The bipartisan legislation will build on current law to ensure that all foreign investors, including “shell companies” who buy American agricultural land, report their holdings, strengthen penalties for those who evade filing, and invest in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland has on agricultural production capacity. “America’s farmland is critical to the health of our rural communities and our national security,” says Baldwin. “Our legislation will help bring to light foreign investments in rural America, so we know who’s buying up land critical to our safety and the future of U.S. agriculture.” USDA has cataloged foreign ownership of approximately 45 million acres of American agricultural land, an 85 percent increase since 2010. *********************************************************************************** Democrats Press USDA on Indiscriminate Layoffs Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, led all committee Democrats in pressing the USDA to explain the recent mass layoffs at the Department. The Senators asked how many USDA employees were fired and for a breakdown by state, agency, job position, and veteran status, all details the administration has not provided to date. “These widespread layoffs jeopardize USDA’s ability to respond to the ongoing avian flu outbreak, process farm loans, disaster relief and other assistance for farmers, and distribute grants and loans for infrastructure and services that rural Americans rely on,” the Senators wrote in a letter to Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins. The Senators also said they have deep concerns that the termination of thousands of nonpartisan USDA employees and contracts in less than a month will hinder the Department’s ability to address the challenges facing American agriculture and rural America. *********************************************************************************** Beef and Dairy Crossbred Cattle Boosting Beef Supply Chain The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service released new data showing the impact of beef and dairy crossbred cattle on the beef supply chain. While limited in scope, the data collected to date suggests the growing number of beef-on-dairy animals is contributing to higher cattle prices for producers and delivering added value to feedlots and processors. The practice of using beef genetics in dairy reproductive programs, commonly referred to as “beef on dairy” within the industry, has steadily increased as the U.S. beef cow herd has contracted. According to an analysis outlined in a new CoBank Knowledge Exchange report, the slaughter auction prices for beef-on-dairy cattle were slightly higher than for beef cattle and significantly higher than for dairy cattle. The weight of beef-on-dairy animals fell between the ends of the beef and dairy cattle spectrums. Beef-on-dairy cattle maintained the largest portion of their value from feeder cattle price to slaughter cattle auction price. *********************************************************************************** Greer Confirmed as USTR The Senate confirmed Jamieson Greer as the new United States Trade Representative and U.S. agriculture groups offered congratulations to the new chief. “He steps into the job at a critical time for American agriculture,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Growing trade imbalances and potential tariffs by trading partners threaten rural America with even more economic hardship.” Growth Energy also applauded the confirmation. “After a record-setting year for exports, the U.S. biofuels industry is more focused than ever on accelerating growth through international sales,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Accomplishing that goal will require a strong voice to speak on behalf of America’s farmers and biofuel producers when negotiating new trade agreements, expanding export markets, and addressing unfair trade issues.” Greer is a trade lawyer who served as chief of staff to then-USTR Robert Lighthizer during the previous Trump administration. Five Democrats and 51 Republicans voted for the confirmation.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 27, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets 2025 USDA Ag Outlook Forum Commodity Outlooks available at 6 a.m. CST Program begins at 7 a.m. CST (register virtually on USDA website) Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Q4 2024 GDP -- Second Reading at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Argentina Crop Conditions Update at 12 :00 p.m. CST Weekly Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather On the back side of Wednesday's clipper system, another disturbance will provide a few isolated rain showers to the Great Lakes Thursday. Light snow showers may try to mix in at times, but accumulations will be minor. High pressure will keep the Plains dry today and temperatures remain above average
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 26, 2025 |
Trump Says 25 Percent Tariffs on Canada, Mexico Are Going Forward U.S. President Donald Trump says tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports are still going forward despite efforts by both countries to boost border security and halt fentanyl ahead of the March 4 deadline. During a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, he told reporters that the tariffs are “going forward on time, on schedule.” Reuters said many were hopeful the top two U.S. trade partners could persuade the administration to hold off on the tariffs that would apply to over $918 billion worth of U.S. imports from the two countries. During the press conference, Trump didn’t specifically mention the March 4 deadline but later restated his desire for reciprocal tariffs to match the duty rates and offset the trade barriers of all countries. The Associated Press says the president claims that the taxes on imports would generate revenues to help reduce the budget deficit and new jobs for workers. *********************************************************************************** USDA Leading March Trade Mission to Guatemala The USDA will spearhead a trade mission to Guatemala from March 3-7 to strengthen trade ties and expand U.S. agricultural exports across Central America. The mission includes more than two dozen agribusinesses, trade organizations, and representatives from two state departments of agriculture. “Strengthening export opportunities for American farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses is a top priority of USDA,” said Foreign Agricultural Service Acting Associate Administrator Mark Slupek. “The trade mission will connect U.S. producers with key buyers in Central America.” Guatemala is the largest economy and most populous country in Central America, with projections indicating continued economic growth. In 2024, it was the largest Central American market for U.S. agricultural products and the 16th largest globally, with exports totaling $1.9 billion. That same year, U.S. agricultural exports reached $1.4 billion to Honduras and $832 million to El Salvador. Guatemala and its neighbors are covered by the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Deadline Draws Near The USDA reminds agricultural producers that the final date to apply for or make changes to their existing crop insurance coverage is approaching for spring planted crops, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, and Micro Farm. Sales closing dates vary by crop and location, but the next major closing dates are February 28, March 15, and April 15. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency lists the closing dates in the Actuarial Information Brower under the “Dates” tab. Producers can also access the RMA Map Viewer tool to visualize the insurance program date choices for acreage reporting, cancelation, contract changes, earliest planting dates, and other important details. Producers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2025 crop year. Crop insurance coverage decisions must be made on or before the sales closing date. Producers can access the RMA Information Reporting System tool to identify applicable dates for their operations. *********************************************************************************** Doud Urges More Trade Opportunities for Dairy Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, told the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee about the paramount importance of expanding market access and enforcing existing trade agreements for America’s dairy producers, workers, and exporters. “To keep up with our competitors from Europe and New Zealand, our dairy exporters need new trade deals that cut tariffs and tackle non-tariff barriers,” Doud said in written testimony. “Whether the U.S. government prioritizes the enforcement of the trade agreements it has negotiated and addresses trade barriers targeting U.S. exports will determine whether America’s farmers and workers will benefit from the market access that has and will be promised.” Last year, U.S. dairy exported close to $8.3 billion in dairy products overseas, supporting thousands of jobs across the country, despite competing against global counterparts who benefit from more recent and expansive trade agreements. “Our competitors aren’t slowing down,” he added. *********************************************************************************** EPA Allows Expanded E15 Access in Eight Midwest States The Environmental Protection Agency says it will uphold the current April 28, 2025 implementation date for year-round use of E15 and E10 in eight states. The action provides certainty for fuel suppliers and expands consumer access to year-round E15 in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin says this underscores EPA’s commitment to consumer access to E15 while ensuring a smooth transition for fuel suppliers and refiners. The approach provides certainty for states that are ready to move forward with year-round E15, while also accommodating those states that requested additional time. The EPA intends to consider granting requests for a one-year delay for those states seeking additional time for compliance. Any state requesting a one-year delay must notify the EPA in writing no later than this Wednesday, February 26. Congress is negotiating a plan to allow for the permanent, year-round sale of E15 nationwide. *********************************************************************************** January Egg Production Drops Four Percent U.S. egg production totaled 8.86 billion during January 2025, down four percent from last year. Production included 7.57 billion table eggs and 1.3 billion hatching eggs. Of the hatching egg total, 1.2 billion were broiler-type, and 100 million were egg-type. The total number of layers during January 2025 averaged 363 million, down four percent from last year. January egg production per 100 layers was 2,440 eggs, down slightly from January 2024. All layers in the U.S. on February 1, 2025, totaled 357 million, down five percent from last year. The 357 million layers consisted of 292 million layers producing table or market eggs, 61.9 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.92 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Egg-type chicks hatched during January 2025 totaled 56.4 million, up six percent from January 2024. Broiler-type chicks hatched during January totaled 869 million, up three percent from January 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 26, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. New Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST USDA Cold Storage Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system will continue to move east through the Midwest and Great Lakes Wednesday, providing spotty light rain showers. Temperatures may be cold enough for a few wet snow showers or freezing drizzle to develop, especially across southern Michigan, northern Indiana, and northern Ohio.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 25, 2025 |
Replacement Dairy Heifers Tumble to 47-year Low USDA just released its Cattle report. Any way you work the corral, there’s fewer heifers in that corral with each passing year as dairy farmers pivot to breeding dairy cows to native beef bulls to capitalize on record beef prices. That trend will not slow down anytime soon, as live cattle futures have pushed into the $200-per-cwt range and represent an all-time high. In its latest estimate, published in late January, USDA projects there are 3.914 million dairy heifers in the 500-pounds-and-higher category. Generally speaking, those dairy heifers 500 pounds and larger are either ready to enter breeding pens or those that are pregnant and will soon enter the milk barn. That 3.914 million total is the lowest since 1978, when USDA calculated that there were 3.886 million heifers in that herd category. ****************************************************************************** USDA Drops 2025 Milk Production Forecast A slight drop in dairy production has led to varied prices for the month of February. USDA reduced production by 400 million pounds based on recent Milk Production and Cattle Inventory Reports. They showed a tighter supply of dairy heifers than expected. World Ag Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski said that the month-over-month changes on prices are notable. Jakanowski said, “In terms of product prices, kind of mixed there. So, cheese prices we raised $0.02 per pound, reflecting pretty tight inventories, but the other main products— butter, non-fat dry milk, dry whey. We lowered butter, we reduced $0.05 per pound. Non-fat dry is down $0.04 and dry whey forecast we reduced $0.03 per pound...” Meanwhile, all milk prices fell compared to the month prior. Jekanowski attributes some of this month’s price changes to the new Federal Milk Marketing Order. That is especially true for class prices, because of changes to how they are calculated. ****************************************************************************** EPA Changes Create Unintended Consequences A lot is happening these days at the Environmental Protection Agency, including Endangered Species Act changes that will impact farmers across the country. Trump’s nominee Lee Zeldin is the new EPA administrator, but it’s unclear yet how funding cuts will affect the agency. Look for plenty of movement at the agency. Including a physical move of EPA’s headquarters out of Washington, D.C. and cutting of existing regulations when new ones are added. Expect to see budget cuts. The number of employees at EPA’s pesticide policy office has declined dramatically, meaning fewer folks are available to approve pesticides and re-register existing ones. The result? A likely longer wait time for pesticide registration. ****************************************************************************** Canada Stocks Avian Flu Vaccine as H5N1 Found in U.S. Rats For the first time, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of H5N1 avian influenza in rats, raising fresh concerns about the virus’s ability to spread among mammals. The infected black rats were found in Riverside County, California, near recent poultry outbreaks. This discovery comes amid broader concerns about avian flu transmission, with additional detections in a harbor seal, a fox, a bobcat, and a domestic cat. In response to the ongoing threat, the Public Health Agency of Canada has secured 500,000 doses of GSK’s human vaccine against avian influenza to protect those at the highest risk of exposure. Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization has recommended targeted use for individuals with potential exposure, such as lab workers and those handling infected animals. Other countries, including the U.S., the EU, and the UK, have also stockpiled avian flu vaccines, with Finland already administering doses to high-risk workers. ****************************************************************************** Farm Bankruptcies Increased 55% in 2024 An indicator of farm financial health across the country, Chapter 12 bankruptcy provides farmers and ranchers with increased flexibility for paying off debt, and is used when all other options have been exhausted. AFBF Market Intel reports have long followed annual filings of Chapter 12 farm bankruptcies, through good and bad years for the farm economy. Unfortunately, as we look ahead to another year of declining farm receipts, particularly in crop markets, we can look back to 2024 and see the impacts of that drop in income in the increase in the number of farms filing for bankruptcy. The U.S. Courts reports that 216 farm bankruptcies were filed in 2024, up 55% from 2023. This is still 64% lower than the all-time high of 599 filings in 2019. All but one region had increases in Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings last year. Bankruptcy filings in territories and states outside the contiguous 48 states more than tripled in 2024 ****************************************************************************** MyLand Announces $4.8M Program to Enhance Soil Health in Washington State MyLand, a leading innovator in soil health, today announced a new $4.8 million dollar opportunity in Washington State to enhance soil health for farmers. The program, funded in combination by the Washington State Department of Agriculture and Washington State Department of Commerce, focuses on supporting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. MyLand’s new program, aiming to cover 9,000 acres in Washington, is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Growers that qualify to participate in the program will receive the MyLand Service at no cost in the first year. The MyLand Service leverages the power of live, native microalgae to rejuvenate soil health, improving productivity, profitability, and sustainability. MyLand integrates seamlessly into existing farm operations, providing a scalable, farmer-friendly service that delivers measurable improvements across key metrics like crop yields, product quality, water efficiency, and soil vitality.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 25, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Food Price Outlook -- ERS at 8 a.m. CST Consumer Confidence at 9 a.m. CST Weather A clipper system is in the Midwest with isolated showers Tuesday morning that will head through the Northeast. Another clipper will move out into the Northern Plains Tuesday with some isolated showers of its own before moving through the Midwest on Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 24, 2025 |
USDA Says It Will Release $20 Million of Frozen Farmer Funds USDA will release approximately $20 million in funding for previously approved contracts that had been frozen by the Trump administration’s push to overhaul the federal government, the agency said late on Thursday. The sum represents a tiny sliver of program funding the USDA suspended after the White House’s broad freeze of federal loans and grants last month. Although the administration rescinded the memo ordering the freeze and it has been blocked in court, a U.S. judge has said the government was still withholding funds. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said the released funds will go to honor contracts that were already made directly with farmers, according to a statement on the USDA’s website. The USDA is releasing $20 million in contracts for the Environmental Quality Incentive Program, the Conservation Stewardship Program and the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program. ****************************************************************************** Farm Bankruptcies Up Sharply in 2024 Federal courts report that 216 farm bankruptcies were filed in 2024, up 55% from 2023. All but one region had increases in Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings last year. Bankruptcy filings in territories and states outside the contiguous 48 states – designated “Other” by the U.S. Courts – more than tripled in 2024, hitting a five-year high of 14 bankruptcies. However, this is still lower than any year between 2007 and 2019. The American Farm Bureau reports Chapter 12 bankruptcies filed in the Northwest doubled from 2023 to 2024. With 12 filings, they tied the Southwest for the region with the second fewest filings. The Southwest was the only region with a decrease in filings (down 14% from 2023) after being the only region to increase in Chapter 12 filings in 2023. After experiencing significant droughts and weather-related losses in the Southwest in 2023, all states except Utah had lower weather losses in 2024. All other regions – Southeast, West, Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest – had double-digit increases in filings from 2023 to 2024. ****************************************************************************** Ohio Poultry Farmers Push Lawmakers for Additional Funding, Vaccines Since the beginning of this year, Ohio poultry farmers have culled almost 11 million birds infected with avian flu according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In an update to state lawmakers, Ohio Poultry Association Executive Vice President Jim Chakeres said the virus has wreaked havoc on commercial flocks. Ohio’s 2025 highly pathogenic avian influenza figures continue to outpace the rest of the country. The 10.9 million birds reported culled through of Feb. 14 is 4 million more than the next closest state — Indiana — and about half a million more than Ohio Capital Journal’s last report, which included USDA data through Feb. 10. The virus has spilled from birds to cows and there have been 68 confirmed cases of bird flu in humans since the beginning of 2024. One of those cases was in Ohio, and another, in Louisiana, proved fatal. Still, state and federal health officials say there have been no incidents of person-to-person transmission and the public health risks remain low. ****************************************************************************** California Senate Bill Takes Aim at Saving Farm Lands A bill before the California state legislature would help pay landowners who promise to keep their land in farming. Amid a push by local leaders to conserve farmland and open spaces in the Bay Area from future development, state senator David Cortese has introduced a bill that would shore up funding to preserve agricultural land throughout the state despite the measure’s uncertain financial outlook. The bill, SB 462, would bolster an existing program called the California Farmland Conservancy Program, which supports agricultural conservation and sustainable land management. If enacted into law, the bill would offer an annual $20 million infusion of funds dedicated specifically to conservation easements. Under that system, the landowner receives payment in exchange for permanently limiting their land to agricultural use – even if it changes owners. The best part is that it is dollars going directly into agricultural preservation. ****************************************************************************** Stricter Lobster Fishing Rules Scrapped After Complaints from Fishermen Fishing industry regulators have decided to scrap stricter new lobster fishing standards off New England in the wake of months of protest from lobster fishermen that the rules were unnecessary and would bankrupt harvesters. The regulators were planning to institute new rules this summer that increased the minimum legal harvest size for lobsters in some of the most important fishing grounds in the world. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Council, which manages the fishery, said the changes were important to preserve the future of a lobster population that has shown recent signs of decline. Many commercial fishermen adamantly opposed the changes, which would have required them to throw back previously market-ready lobsters. An arm of the commission voted on Feb. 4 to initiate a repeal of the new rules in the face of fervent industry concerns about the potential economic impacts of the changes, the commission said in a statement. ****************************************************************************** UPL’s Latest Corn Herbicide Offers New Active Ingredient Amicarbazone offers increased control over atrazine- and HPPD-resistant pigweeds. UPL Corp. announced the EPA registration of Intrava DX, a preemergent herbicide for corn. The Group 5 herbicide will be available for use this season and aims to offer control over atrazine- and HPPD-resistant pigweeds as well as a broad spectrum of grasses and broadleaf weeds. Intrava DX contains amicarbazone, a new active ingredient for the corn market that has no known resistance issues. Partnered with metribuzin, these active ingredients should offer 30-plus days of residual control. The product will give growers an effective and long-lasting residual solution to growing threats from atrazine and HPPD-resistant weeds in a news release. We are also committed to building on this novel active ingredient in corn to develop an exciting Intrava brand portfolio as part of our growing pipeline of proprietary crop protection and biological products.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 24, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Grain Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST USDA Monthly Chicken and Eggs Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A clipper is moving through eastern Canada on Monday. Some showers are scraping through the northern Great Lakes. Another disturbance is moving through the Northern Plains with some breezy winds and light showers of its own, but most of the country is warm and dry to start the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 21, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Existing Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST Mato Grosso (Brazil) Institute of Agricultural Economics Weekly crop progress report at 1:00 p.m. CST USDA Cattle on Feed report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather Cold air that has been spreading through the country this week is shifting eastward. Areas in the Plains are seeing temperatures rise Friday morning and that trend will continue eastward through the weekend. Limited areas of showers around the Great Lakes and Colorado are active Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 20, 2025 |
Ranking Members of Ag Committees Want Answers The Ranking Members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees are pressing the Trump administration for answers on international food aid disruptions. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Angie Craig, both Minnesota Democrats, asked for an explanation following a stop-work order that halted the delivery and distribution of hundreds of millions of metric tons of American-grown food aid, which could impact American farmers and U.S. agricultural markets. In a letter to Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins, they said, “We received reports of American-grown commodities sitting in storage without the ability to monitor whether this aid will get to the more than 75,000 children who would have otherwise received school meals.” They also said with Food for Progress, buyers in other countries have bought U.S. commodities but haven’t received them due to this pause. “It’s our understanding that this also encompasses hundreds of thousands of tons of U.S. wheat, rice, and soy,” they added. *********************************************************************************** Boosting Ethanol Can Avert a Farm Crisis In an annual address on the state of the industry, Renewable Fuels President and CEO Geoff (Jeff) Cooper highlighted the ethanol industry’s pivotal role in American agriculture. He also outlined how ethanol can again help the farm sector thrive in the face of current economic challenges if the right actions are taken by Congress. Speaking at the RFA’s 30th Annual National Ethanol Conference, Cooper’s report not only reflected on the industry’s history but also looked toward the future under the leadership of President Trump and a new Congress. “From the early days of ‘gasohol’ during the Carter administration to the transformative passage of the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2005, the ethanol industry has evolved into a cornerstone of energy security and agricultural prosperity,” Cooper said. “The success of ethanol has had a profound impact on American consumers and farmers alike, lowering pump prices, enhancing energy independence, and bolstering rural communities.” *********************************************************************************** No Ban Coming After New Case of Mexican Screwworm Another case of New World screwworm was found in a Mexican cow south of the border. Despite that, USDA says it won’t limit cattle imports from Mexico. Reuters says U.S. cattle supplies in recent months grew tight after Washington blocked Mexican livestock shipments into the U.S. in late November due to the screwworm. The World Organization for Animal Health says the disease was found in a cow located in the Mexican state of Tabasco. The pest can infect wildlife, cattle, and in rare cases, people. Maggots from the screwworm flies burrow into the skin of living animals, causing serious and often fatal damage. USDA says the comprehensive pre-clearance inspection and treatment protocol will help cattle and bison move safely from Mexico into the United States. America's cattle supplies are at their lowest levels in more than 70 years, and beef prices are high because ranchers slashed production due to drought. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Inspections for Export Rise Data from the USDA shows inspections of corn for export rose last week while soybean and wheat assessments declined during the week ending on February 13. Weekly corn inspections totaled 1.61 million metric tons. The agency said that’s up from 1.36 million tons a week earlier and the 1.05 million tons examined at the same time last year. Soybean assessments dropped to 720,332 metric tons, well below the 1.1 million tons inspected during the prior week and 1.29 million tons at the same time in 2024. Wheat examinations for delivery were lower at 249,812 metric tons versus 570,300 tons the previous week and the 420,268 inspected in 2024. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 24.7 million metric tons of corn for export, 36 million tons of soybeans, and 14.8 million tons of wheat. The corn, soybean, and wheat inspection totals are all higher than they were last year. *********************************************************************************** EU Exploring Import Restrictions Which Might Include Soy The European Union wants to block imports of particular foodstuffs made to different standards to protect its farmers, which is similar to President Trump’s reciprocal trade policy. The Financial Times says the EU Commission will look into the possibility of greater import limits, which is a move that would raise tensions between the trading partners. Early reports say the targets could include U.S. soybeans, which are grown using pesticides that EU farmers are not allowed to use. The EU’s Health Commissioner says that leaders have “very clear signals from the parliament, very clear signals from member states, and our farmers, which says whatever is banned in the EU, it should stay that way, even if it’s an imported product.” These latest moves could bring pushback from Donald Trump, who repeatedly has accused the EU of treating the U.S. farmer unfairly, and he shrugged at the EU’s pushback. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Soy Announces NEXTILE Challenge Winners The next wave of sustainable fashion is soy-based textiles, which are on the rise. To spur innovation in that space, U.S. Soy announced Clara Padgham (PADJ-hum) from the University of Wisconsin as the national winner of the NEXTILE: The Soy in Textile Design Challenge. In its second year, the NEXTILE competition is designed to highlight the creativity and originality of students studying design by encouraging the use of sustainable textiles, namely soy-based products. Padgham’s winning design is a women’s textile bucket hat that utilizes a number of soy-based components, including silk yarn. As the competition winner, Padgham will get a $1,000 scholarship. This year’s competitors were provided with a soy-based product design kit, which included soy silk, soy cashmere, organic pigment, soy wax, and other soy products. “The students showed their creativity and innovation,” said Carla Schultz, a Michigan farmer who also served as a judge during the competition.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 20, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Argentina Crop Conditions Update at 12 p.m. CST USDA Livestock Slaughter Reports at 2 p.m. CST Weather Thursday is very cold across a large majority of the country east of the Rockies. However, the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies have seen significant rises in temperatures over where they were just Wednesday with that trend continuing and spreading into the weekend. Some light snow is occurring around the Great Lakes and Appalachians.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 19, 2025 |
Legislation Would Allow Year-Round E15 Sale Senators Chuck Grassley and Deb Fischer of Iowa, both Senate Ag Committee members, reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. The legislation is currently the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleash the power of E15, which would fulfill the White House mandate for energy independence. The legislation would end years of patchwork regulations and provide certainty for producers and consumers. “E15 is good for consumers, the environment, and our national security,” Grassley said. “Authorizing the year-round, nationwide sale of E15 is common sense, and it will help cut prices at the pump, create jobs in rural America, and restore America’s energy dominance.” Monte Shaw, executive director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, says, “As farm income has plummeted, year-round E15 represents the single biggest way to build demand for corn in the near term. “Rural America is done waiting, and the time for E15 is now.” *********************************************************************************** Administration Moving Away from Depopulation for Bird Flu The Trump administration is preparing to move away from depopulating entire flocks infected by bird flu. The focus will instead be on biosecurity and medication to contain the outbreaks. Reuters reported last week that the USDA has given conditional approval to Zoetis (zoh-EH-tis) to use its bird flu vaccine in poultry. Zoetis, which deals with vaccines, medicines, and diagnostics for animals, said the conditional license was granted based on safety and a reasonable expectation of efficacy. A conditional approval, also called a conditional license, is used for emergencies, limited market availability, or other special circumstances and is only issued for a certain period. Last month, USDA committed to rebuilding a stockpile of bird flu vaccines for poultry that match the strain of virus circulating in commercial flocks and wild birds. Moderna is developing a bird flu vaccine for humans and received a large government grant for its advancement. *********************************************************************************** Caucus Members Want Assurances Regarding Chicken Exports The co-chairs of the Congressional and Senate Chicken Caucuses wrote the USDA to seek assurances to protect America’s chicken exports should vaccination be contemplated as part of a strategy to combat HPAI. With the recent attention around increased egg prices due to HPAI, there have been renewed conversations about whether the U.S. should vaccinate commercial poultry flocks against the virus. “There should be a very clear distinction between all ‘poultry’ to protect America’s family farmers and global trading relationships,” they wrote. “To be clear, vaccination in any poultry sector, including egg layers, turkeys, broilers, or ducks, will jeopardize the entire export market for all U.S. poultry products.” The letter points out that broilers, or chickens raised for meat, are an entirely separate industry from the egg-laying sector. More than 77 percent have been commercial egg-laying hens, 12 percent of commercial turkeys, and eight percent of commercial broilers have been infected. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Soybean Farmers See Checkoff’s Impact for Themselves Ten young U.S. farmers currently working in production agriculture journeyed to Honduras and Guatemala during a United Soybean Board “See for Yourself” mission trip. The group looked in-depth at the soy checkoff’s investments in international market growth. With about 60 percent of the U.S. soybean crop exported, in addition to value-added poultry and meat products traveling overseas, these next-generation U.S. farmers experienced the global impact of U.S. soybeans. “With these U.S. soybean farmers across several states contributing to the soy checkoff, this mission allowed them to see firsthand how their investments grow export markets,” says Phillip Good, USB Chair and Mississippi farmer. “They also got a better understanding of how the ports and infrastructure affect U.S. soy products internationally, and the importance of the Panama Canal was critical to the discussion. Guatemala is the 15th-largest market for U.S. ag exports, and Honduras gets most of its soybean meal from the U.S. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Fighting for Death Tax Relief The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association strongly supports the Death Tax Repeal Act, led by Representatives Randy Feenstra (IA) and Sanford Bishop (GA). Repealing the federal estate tax, also known as the death tax, is NCBA’s top priority. NCBA President and Nebraska cattle producer Buck Wehrbein says the death tax isn’t pro-growth, but instead, it’s a death warrant for family businesses. “It’s the top threat to the future of family farms and ranches in the U.S., and cattle producers need relief from this insidious tax,” he said. “Family-owned farms and ranches operate with limited cash flow, with most of their value tied up in assets like land.” As farmland and pastureland values rise, more producers will be hit with this punitive tax, forcing them to sell assets or take on debt. “This is not a tax on the rich,” Wehrbein added, “it’s a boot to the neck of family businesses.” *********************************************************************************** Update on Port Negotiations On February 7, the International Longshoremen Association’s Wage Scale Committee unanimously approved a new six-year contract between the ILA and the U.S. Maritime Alliance. The next step is a ratification vote on February 25 by the ILA rank-and-file membership. Assuming the ILA rank-and-file approves the contract on February 25, the final step will be for the Maritime Alliance to vote on the proposed contract. “It’s therefore likely that the new contract will be finalized by the end of February or early March,” says Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. “If approved, the contract and all its benefits will be retroactive to October 1, 2024, and will be in effect until September 30, 2030.” Over 200 ILA Wage Scale Committee members met on February 7 in Hollywood, Florida, to discuss and approve the contract. “We welcome the news that they’re about to approve a six-year contract,” Steenhoek added.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 19, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing Starts at 7:30 a.m. CST ERS Food Expenditure Series at 9 a.m. CST U.S. FOMC Minutes from January meeting at 1 p.m. CST Weather A storm system is cruising through the southeastern quadrant of the country on Wednesday, bringing a mix of rain and snow. Some light snow trails behind it across the Central Plains early in the morning and will push eastward into the Midwest later today. Very cold air remains in place across the Plains and Upper Midwest, spreading to the Southeast behind the system.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 18, 2025 |
Brazil Says U.S. Ethanol Tariff Would Be Unreasonable Brazil’s Energy and Mining Minister Alexandre Silveira said on Thursday that a potential U.S. tariff on Brazilian ethanol would be unreasonable, emphasizing that the two countries have historically negotiated ethanol and sugar trade together. His remarks came after President Donald Trump moved to scrap decades-old low tariff rates, raising them to match those of other countries. A White House fact sheet on the plan pointed to Brazil’s ethanol tariffs as an example of unfair trade practices. The U.S. tariff on ethanol is a mere 2.5%, yet Brazil charges U.S. ethanol exports an 18% tariff. As a result, in 2024, the U.S. imported over $200 million in ethanol from Brazil while exporting only $52 million in ethanol to Brazil, the document said on Thursday. *************************************************************************************** U.S. Bird Flu Response Disrupted in Early Weeks of Trump Administration The Trump administration has disrupted the U.S. response to bird flu as the outbreak worsens, leading to confusion and concern among federal staff, state officials, veterinarians, and health experts. Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, two federal agencies responsible for monitoring and responding to the epidemic have withheld bird flu reports and canceled congressional briefings and meetings with state health officials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) withheld two weekly reports, one on bird flu transmission and another on surveillance, and canceled several meetings on bird flu with state officials. The CDC and U.S. Department of Agriculture held no congressional briefings for three weeks, and the USDA did not respond to a state official’s request for information on a new program to protect the nation’s food supply. The result has been anxiety among federal health staff that critical information about bird flu will not be disseminated in a timely manner or at all, even as more people and livestock test positive for the virus. *************************************************************************************** The ‘Billion-Dollar Pest’ Reappears in Canada, Connecticut In 2018, farmers in Nova Scotia, Canada, noticed a pest they hadn’t seen in a long time — the European corn borer. The pest was introduced to the United States in 1917 and spread to most major corn-growing regions by the 1940s. Coined “the billion-dollar pest,” the European corn borer caused yield loss by burrowing into cornstalks and feeding on them until the introduction of Bt corn in 1996. The main indicator of the borer is a horizontal line of shot holes in the corn leaves. The discovery in Nova Scotia led researchers to investigate throughout Canada, where they continued to find the same Cry1F resistance in the borer as they found in Nova Scotia. Cry1F is the crystalline protein used in Bt corn that keeps larvae at bay. “In the years from 2018–2023, researchers started to make collections all across Canada and they were finding European corn borer resistance to Cry1F toxins all across the board. *************************************************************************************** Farmers Still Caught in USDA Funding Freeze USDA is withholding funds from farmers for conservation programs, despite the White House stating last week that funds to individuals would not be frozen. Contractors for conservation programs also have been affected by a funding freeze. The Iowa Soybean Association, for instance, cited in a letter to lawmakers that $11 million owed to farmers is at risk. Farmers are learning their conservation payments are frozen because those contracts were funded through the Inflation Reduction Act. Two federal judges over the past week have ruled that the Trump administration did not have authority to block funding that was appropriated by Congress. Repeated efforts to question USDA over which programs are frozen and questioned why payments to individual farmers were frozen. USDA's press office did not respond. Officials with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) also did not respond. At least one Missouri producer posted videos on TikTok worried he could lose his farm because USDA "reneged" on his cost-share contract with NRCS under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). *************************************************************************************** Soybean Research Projects Shutting Down as USAID Funding Cut Off A major soybean research project, which collaborates with the University of Missouri (MU), will shut down April 15 due to President Donald Trump's dismantling of funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The Soybean Innovation Lab, based at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, was formed in 2011 to provide researchers and organizations with the resources needed to advance soybean development. The lab is comprised of over 100 technical soybean experts from 24 countries, each representing a variety of institutions. The land-grant system will lose 19 innovation labs across 17 states, including Missouri. MU has been involved in the Soybean Innovation Lab since 2013, said Kerry Clark, an MU researcher who leads the mechanization division for the lab. Clark said MU's sector of the Soybean Innovation Lab research received $1.2 million, or about $150,000 annually, before losing funding. **************************************************************************************** Little Snow Leaves Nearly All of Nebraska Facing Drought Conditions Snowfall has been sparse across Nebraska this winter, but a cattleman said the lack of snow has made for “beautiful cattle feeding” conditions. Craig Uden, a fourth-generation cattleman and part-owner of Darr Feedlot in central Nebraska, said there have only been about six inches of snow all winter long. Despite the lack of snow, Uden said the weather has been “wonderful for cattle feeding conditions.” A lot of Uden’s cattle have been able to stay in the corn fields as a result of “so many 50–60 degree days. It’s actually been a tremendously easy year to winter cows,” according to Uden. The concern of being able to find grass increases the stress of keeping additional heifers. According to the latest drought monitor map, less than 1% of Nebraska is free from drought stress. Eight percent of the state is abnormally dry, 44% is in D1 moderate drought, 40% is in D2 severe drought, and the remaining 8% is in D3 extreme drought.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 18, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing Market Index at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST ERS Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook, Feb 2025 at 2 p.m. CST USDA Agricultural Projections to 2034 at 2 p.m. CST USDA Annual Chicken and Eggs Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A storm system in the Plains is producing snow for early Tuesday. The system will build as it works across the Delta region later Tuesday and Tuesday night. Some areas of heavy snow are forecast on the system's northern edge from Kansas and northern Oklahoma east through the Tennessee Valley. Very cold air is socked in to the north and west behind the system, leading to dangerously cold conditions in the Plains and Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 14, 2025 |
Rollins Confirmed as Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins won confirmation as the new Secretary of Agriculture by a 72-28 Senate vote. Several U.S. agriculture groups congratulated the Texan on her confirmation. “America’s pork producers are eager to work with Secretary Rollins to fix the multitude of problems caused by California’s Prop 12 and ensure farm families have reasonable policies to pass down our farms to future generations,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfert says it’s crucial to have leaders who understand the unique needs of agriculture, and they look forward to working with Rollins in good times and bad. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney congratulated Rollins on taking over as the 33rd Secretary of Agriculture, saying, “The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture is ready to work with the new Secretary on increasing economic opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and food producers, as well as getting a new farm bill approved.” *********************************************************************************** The Food Price Index Moves Higher in January The Food Price Index increased 0.4 percent in January. The food at home index rose 0.5 percent over the month as four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The indexes for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 1.9 percent over the month, as the index for eggs led the way by rising 15.2 percent. This was the largest increase in the eggs index since June 2015 and accounted for about two-thirds of the total monthly food-at-home increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the fruits and vegetables index fell 0.5 percent in January. The cereals and bakery products index decreased 0.4 percent over the month as the breakfast cereal index fell 3.3 percent. The food away from home index rose 0.2 percent in January. The index for limited-service meals rose 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for full-service meals rose 0.1 percent. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Applaud Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act The National Milk Producers Federation applauds the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act to help increase kids’ access to milk’s vital nutrients. The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee reaffirmed in its Scientific Report last December that most kids and adolescents are not meeting daily dairy intake recommendations,” says NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “Good nutrition is the cornerstone of children’s health and development, and milk plays an unparalleled role in providing the nutrients kids need to grow and thrive.” He also points out that kids drink more and more milk in schools when they have nutrient-dense options they like. “A growing body of evidence shows dairy foods at all fat levels have a neutral or positive effect on health outcomes ranging from lower obesity rates and diabetes to reduced heart disease risk and healthy cholesterol levels,” Doud added. The House Education and Workforce Committee approved the Act. ********************************************************************************** Wheat Groups Support USDA Administration of Food for Peace U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers welcomed new legislation that would move the Food for Peace international food assistance program under the USDA’s administration. “U.S. Wheat has long been proud of the role America’s farmers play in feeding hungry populations around the world,” says USW President Vince Peterson. “Realigning administration of Food for Peace, our flagship global hunger program, to USDA makes perfect sense and ensures that the agency most closely connected with food is equipped to deliver wholesome food from American farmers to those who need it.” NAWG CEO Chandler Goule says his group welcomes the legislation that supports American farmers while working to address hunger around the world. “Each year, the Food for Peace program buys more than one million metric tons of food, including wheat, to feed millions of starving people,” Goule says. “The program will feed people more efficiently and effectively this way.” *********************************************************************************** Iowa Senators Work Protect Higher Education Access for Farm Families Republican Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa joined Democrat Michael Bennet of Colorado in introducing bipartisan legislation protecting farm families’ access to higher education. The Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act would amend the FAFSA Simplification Act to restore the original exemption of non-liquid, farm, and small business assets when determining a family’s FAFSA eligibility. “Farm assets can’t be cashed out in the same way traditional investments can,” Grassley said. “Last Congress, I worked with the Department of Education to ensure the FAFSA asset test is only applied to investment farms, not family farms.” Ernst added that no one should have to sell their farm or small business to afford college. “As a farm kid, I know the enormous impacts grants and financial aid have on rural students’ decisions to go to college,” Ernst said. “We’re fighting for farm families, so unfair policies don’t hold them back.” *********************************************************************************** Apply for a Spot at the Global Sheep Forum If you’re a passionate sheep producer looking to expand your horizons, the American Lamb Board and the American Sheep Industry Association have an exciting opportunity. The ASI’s Young & Emerging Entrepreneurs Committee presents an exciting opportunity to participate in the Global Sheep Forum’s Young Leaders Program, which takes place during LambEx, the world’s premier event for sheep, lamb, and wool education in Australia in August 2026. This unique program aims to connect young producers and leaders from around the globe, fostering the exchange of ideas and networking opportunities. You’ll also get valuable insights into the innovations and technologies shaping the sheep industry. Among the eligibility criteria, producers are encouraged to be an existing active member of ASI and an ALB contributor. As part of the program, selected participants will be asked to engage in several education and leadership programs through 2025 and 2026. Applications are open until April 15 at lambboard.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 14, 2025 |
Another Agriculture Group Takes Issue with Dietary Guidelines Report The National Chicken Council urged the Department of Health and Human Services to reject recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee emphasizing plant-based proteins over lean meats like chicken. Among the recommendations that the NCC took issue with was the emphasis on eating beans, peas, and lentils as optimal protein sources above chicken. There was no specific mention that lean meat, like chicken, can be part of a healthy dietary pattern. “We believe these recommendations and omissions are harmful to the human health of all Americans, especially those relying on federal feeding programs,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, NCC senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs. “The committee also provided no scientific fact or justification to support why protein subgroups need to be reordered to deemphasize lean meats, like chicken.” NCC also says plant proteins are not nutritionally equivalent at all to animal proteins from a protein quality and quantity standpoint. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Officers Visit Japan The 2024-2025 National FFA Officer Team returned from the National FFA Officers International Experience Program in Japan. The Officers had a chance to experience Japanese culture and agriculture in partnership with the sister organization Future Farmers of Japan. This annual trip provides these young people the chance to experience firsthand how agriculture transcends geographical boundaries and strengthens a partnership that dates back to 1950. The International Experience Program develops the national officers’ language skills, business practices, and communication techniques to build cross-cultural cooperation while providing an opportunity for them to practice peer leadership on an international scale. “As I travel the country and world as a part of National FFA, I’m consistently reminded that agriculture is a common thread that brings us all together,” says Caroline Groth, Eastern Region Vice President. “We have more in common than we have differences, and we’re working to make our communities and world better.” *********************************************************************************** Enhanced Coverage Option for 2025 a Better Choice The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says some farmers should possibly consider the Enhanced Coverage Option in 2025 as premium costs will be lower this year. The ECO is a crop-insurance product where farmers have the option to insure at either a 90 percent or 95 percent coverage level. One important fact about the ECO is that, unlike SCO, ECO does not restrict the choice of commodity title program. Farmers can’t purchase SCO coverage on acres enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage commodity program, but in contrast, ECO can be used even if ARC is selected as the commodity title choice. The Risk Management Agency has increased the premium subsidy rate for ECO to 65 percent for 2025 and future years. Farmers may wish to consider ECO because its premium will be lower than last year, and revenue protection will likely cover less of the 2025 cost of production. *********************************************************************************** Texas Farm Field Lack Water, Get Plowed Under South Texas was once home to the farmer-owned Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers cooperative. It was comprised of more than 100 family farmers growing sugarcane and the raw sugar mill in Santa Rosa. The American Sugar Alliance says due to Mexico’s failure to deliver the water it owes the United States under the 1944 Water Treaty, the mill is now shuttered, and the few remaining acres of sugarcane were plowed under. Nearly 40,000 acres of sugarcane once grew in the Rio Grande Valley, fueling the sugar mill and providing approximately 500 jobs critical to the surrounding rural communities. With irrigation water supplies at critical levels and with little water coming from Mexico, growers were forced to make the hard decision to plow under their sugarcane. In early 2023, farmers planted 34,000 acres and were down to 10,000 acres in early 2024. Now, zero acres are getting planted in the valley. *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Free Trade Comment on Section 232 Tariffs Brian Kuehl (KEEL), executive director of Farmers for Free Trade, the nation’s leading coalition of American ag and food producers that depend on trade and exports, reacted to the imposition of Section 232 tariffs. “Recent history shows that indiscriminate 232 tariffs trigger harsh retaliation against U.S. farmers and food producers,” Kuehl says. “In 2018, targeted countries responded with tariffs on uniquely American agricultural products, everything from soybeans and pork to bourbon.” Farmers for Free Trade says when these American products get saddled with onerous tariffs, it directly hurts American farmers, ranchers, and food manufacturers – American businesses that depend on exports to survive. “Rather than strengthening American industry, these tariffs make it harder to sell the very products the world wants from us,” Kuehl adds. “If we truly want to grow our economy and support Americans that are producing right here at home, we need to expand exports, not make them a target.” *********************************************************************************** NCGA Hires a New Director of Biofuels The National Corn Growers Association announced Lane Howard has joined the staff as director of biofuels. “Ethanol is one of our marquee issues and is important to rural economies,” says Sean Arians, vice president of sustainable production and value chain engagement at NCGA. With close to ten years of experience handling agricultural issues, Howard most recently managed the market development portfolio for the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council and Missouri Corn Growers Association. In that role, he oversaw issues related to all corn use and demand growth, including biofuels, livestock, trade, new uses, research, and developing industry relationships. Howard also has experience on the national level, serving on various NCGA action teams and participating in monthly working group meetings for ethanol, new uses, and animal agriculture. He also played a key role in NCGA’s recent strategic planning process and served as a content area expert for the organization’s staff and state colleagues.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 14, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Retail Sales 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Industrial production and capacity at 8:15 a.m. CST Mato Grosso Institute of Ag Economics Crop Reports at 1 p.m. CST CFTC Commitments of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A stronger system will drop out of the Rockies and enter the Plains later Friday. Ahead of the system, widespread snow showers are expected to develop across the Midwest, especially through the afternoon and evening. Farther south, a few spotty rain showers are possible across the Mississippi Delta.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 12, 2025 |
Dietary Guidelines Recommendations Bad for Public Health The National Pork Producers Council expressed serious concerns about the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s so-called “scientific” report in comments to the Department of Health and Human Services. “While pork producers are committed to supporting human health and nutrition with safe, wholesome, and nutritious protein, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s recommendations do not,” says Rob Brenneman, NPPC Vice President and a pork producer from Washington, Iowa. “Our nation’s health is at risk as these Guidelines inform all federal nutrition programs, including those affecting the military and schoolchildren, and provide recommendations to health professionals.” The Committee’s most egregious “scientific” recommendations include replacing red meat with plant-based proteins, which would lead to several, significant nutrient gaps and deficiencies. This move will especially put at-risk infants, young children, adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women, and older adults, as they require higher amounts of protein and nutrients that are provided by animal-based proteins. *********************************************************************************** World Ag Expo Underway in California The World Ag Expo is underway today and runs through Thursday in Tulare, California. The World Ag Expo, established in 1968, had more than 100,000 visitors come from 49 states and 81 countries to attend last year’s show. The show is produced by the International Agri-Center, an education-based non-profit organization. New for 2025, there will be a lot of movement on the grounds this year with expanded live demonstrations. That movement includes the Western State Beefmasters Breeders Association Live Cattle Auction. World Ag Expo has over 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, which is the equivalent of 45 football fields. The International Agri-Center owns nearly 700 acres. Outside of the show grounds and parking lots, the remaining 400-plus acres get farmed, with crops including cotton and almonds. The World Ag Expo also gives back by providing the opportunity to fundraise by managing more than 30 food booths at the show. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Cattlemen Becomes New NCBA President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattleman, took over the role of NCBA president during CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. Wehrbein has a 45-year career in the cattle feeding sector, so he brings decades of dedication to the industry and leadership experience to NCBA’s top post. He sees both challenges and opportunities ahead, but he’s confident that NCBA’s unifying presence will remain critical to addressing key issues facing farmers and ranchers. He’s particularly passionate about fostering opportunity for the next generation of producers, recognizing their ability to drive innovation and industry progress. “They’re ahead of where we were in my time,” he noted. “They understand the issues and are ready to make a difference.” Wehrbein’s focus during his time as president is to advocate for profit opportunities while strengthening the freedom to operate. “The overarching principle and aim of NCBA is to make things better for our members,” he said. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Talks About Boosting U.S. Energy Dominance Alison Graab, Executive Director of the SAF Coalition, highlighted the opportunity for the new Administration to boost U.S. energy dominance through supportive Sustainable Aviation Fuel policies. She said America is well-positioned to be a global leader in SAF, leveraging America’s agricultural abundance, bioenergy expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit to create an alternative jet fuel. “Extending and improving tax credits for SAF production is essential,” Graab says. “Investors and energy producers need long-term policy certainty to commit to building facilities and scaling operations.” It’s also important to embrace all potential feedstocks as American innovators have developed ways to produce SAF from diverse sources, including crops, waste, biomass, captured gases, and cooking oil. Graab would also like to see red tape get cut as streamlining permitting processes and providing clear regulatory guidance can accelerate SAF production. “The Administration talks of ‘energy dominance,’ and SAF is a natural extension of that vision,” Graab adds. *********************************************************************************** AARP Supports AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act AARP has voiced its strong support for the AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act, urging Congress to swiftly pass the bipartisan legislation to protect the most vulnerable during emergencies. Bill Sweeney, AARP’s Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, sent a letter to lawmakers emphasizing AM radio’s critical role in emergency communications and its significance for older Americans. “Older adults are over-represented in rural areas where wireless and broadband connections are limited or non-existent,” Sweeney wrote. “AM radio connects millions of older residents to their communities through targeted programming, including the latest local news and weather.” Citing a 2023 letter from seven former FEMA Administrators, AARP also pointed to AM radio as a big part of the National Public Warning System. Seventy-seven AM stations are Primary Entry Points, equipped with backup generators and emergency communication equipment, ensuring uninterrupted broadcasts reaching more than 90 percent of the U.S. population during disasters. *********************************************************************************** February WASDE Neutral for U.S. Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA’s February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report says the 2024-2025 U.S. corn supply and use outlook is unchanged from last month. The biggest change took place in global corn production, which is forecast to drop 1.8 million tons to 1.492 billion. Foreign corn production is forecast down due to production declines in Brazil and Argentina. The projected season-average farm price is up 10 cents to $4.35 a bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use forecasts are also unchanged. Global numbers also took center stage in soybeans, with the global supply forecast to drop because of reduced production in Argentina and Paraguay because of persistent heat and dryness in January. The season-average soybean price is projected at $10.10 a bushel, down ten cents. The U.S. wheat supply and demand outlook is for slightly higher domestic use and lower ending stocks. The season-average wheat price is unchanged at $5.55 a bushel.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 12, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST ERS Reports including wheat data and seasonal prices at 2 p.m. CST Weather A strong system will exit the Central Plains through Wednesday afternoon and spread across the Midwest, providing widespread snow across Iowa, southern Wisconsin, and northern Illinois. On the southern side of this system, areas of heavy rain are forecast across the Mississippi Delta and Southeast; some swaths of rain could exceed 3-4 inches over 24 hours.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 11, 2025 |
USDA Freezes Conservation, Farmer Payments The USDA has frozen some funding for farmers as it goes through a sweeping review, despite assurances from the Trump administration that programs helping farmers wouldn’t be affected during the government overhaul. Reuters says the impact has been wide-ranging, from cash assistance for ranchers to fixing cattle watering systems to help for corn growers wanting to plant cover crops that curb wind erosion. The freeze adds even more economic uncertainty for farmers already struggling after consecutive years of incomes dragged down by low crop prices. Bloomberg says the American Soybean Association has been notified by growers that payments associated with the Climate-Smart Commodities Program have been suspended. The ASA stressed to the USDA that it should honor the contractual agreement it made with farmers. Senate Ag Committee Democrats joined Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar in sending a letter to USDA requesting information on actions taken by USDA to pause these payments. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Pork Exports Record-Large in 2024 U.S. pork exports eclipsed previous highs in both volume and value in 2024. December pork exports totaled 267,132 metric tons, slightly below last year’s large volume, while value increased one percent to $771.8 million. The results pushed 2024 volume to 3.03 million tons, up four percent from the previous year and topped the previous high set in 2020. Export value totaled $8.63 billion, six percent above 2023’s record. Pork export efforts delivered a value of $66 per head of slaughtered pork. December beef exports reached 119,171 million tons, 1.5 percent higher than the prior year, while value rose four percent to $897.6 million. Full-year beef exports were 1.29 million tons, down 0.5 percent, while value increased five percent to $10.45 billion. Market diversification delivered a value of $415 per fed head slaughtered for beef. USDA also says lamb exports trended higher than the previous year in both volume and value. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Appreciates Letter to New EPA Chief Clean Fuels Alliance America thanked 28 members of Congress who sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin. The lawmakers’ letter urged Zeldin to put the Renewable Fuel Standard back on track and provide a path for the growth of the U.S. biofuel industry. The letter specifically requests that the EPA set timely, robust volumes for 2026 and beyond in the “Set 2” rule; to reject the abuse of small refinery exemptions; and avoid proposals that retroactively lower set volumes or erode demand. “Steady growth in U.S. biofuel production means more American fuel in the marketplace and lower prices at the pump for hardworking families who have spent years suffering under high inflation,” the Congressional Biofuels Caucus wrote in the letter. “Rural communities are counting on you to maintain this trajectory by providing stable, predictable growth in U.S. biofuel targets and preserving the integrity of the RFS.” *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports American Beef Labeling Act National Farmers Union announced its support of the American Beef Labeling Act, which was introduced by Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The legislation will codify mandatory country-of-origin labeling, or MCOOL, for beef sold in the U.S., distinguishing American-produced products in grocery stores. They urge additional co-sponsors to endorse the bill and support its swift passage. “America’s family farmers and ranchers produce the best agricultural products in the world, and consumers have the right to know where their products come from,” says NFU President Rob Larew. Specifically, the ABLA will give American farmers and ranchers more power in production and marketing by including package labeling indicating that their product was born, raised, slaughtered, and packaged entirely in the U.S. This will allow small and mid-sized producers to occupy a larger market share and receive a greater share of the American consumer’s food dollar, creating a more competitive marketplace. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Sets 2025 Policy Priorities The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association set the organization’s 2025 policy priorities at CattleCon 2025. The focus will be on engaging with the Trump administration and Congress to expand opportunities for producer profitability. “NCBA will advocate for passage of a long-term farm bill and push to extend the critical tax provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that expire at the end of the year,” says new NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “Over the past few years, producers have been increasingly squeezed by onerous regulatory burdens, including unscientific Endangered Species Act listings and the rapidly changing enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act.” He also says government overreach has prevented meaningful conservation efforts, leaving America’s natural resources in worse conditions and cattle producers in a position of significant uncertainty with soaring legal and accounting bills. The priorities include retaining the wins in the 2004 House Ag Committee’s farm bill. *********************************************************************************** February is Lamb Lovers Month For more than ten years, the American Lamb Board has celebrated February as Lamb Lovers Month, the perfect time to enjoy delicious American lamb. With Valentine’s Day approaching, ALB is serving up inspiration for romantic, cozy meals at home. The American Lamb website is packed with mouth-watering recipes, from heart-shaped lamb dishes to elegant wine pairings and even unexpected yet delightful lamb and chocolate combinations. Whether you are planning a special date night or just want to try something new, there’s something for every lamb lover. ALB is teaming up again with the Lambassador Network to spread the love for American lamb all over social media. Throughout the month, Lambassadors will share their favorite recipes and give followers a chance to win an American Lamb prize pack. There will also be a live cooking class on February 13 with Chef Joel, when he’ll cook Cherry-Braised Lamb Shanks.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 11, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report at 11 a.m. CST NASS Crop Production Report at 11 a.m. CST FAS World Markets and Trade Reports at 11:15 a.m. CST Weather A large system will move across the Southeast Plains, Southeast, Tennessee Valley, and Mid-Atlantic Tuesday. A wintry mix of precipitation and snow will mainly favor the Mid-Atlantic and far southern areas of the Eastern Midwest while rain remains farther south. Parts of Virginia could see over six inches of snow with this system.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 10, 2025 |
Mexico Repeals Ban on US Biotech Corn Imports Following USMCA Dispute Loss The Mexican government on Thursday repealed its ban on genetically modified corn imports from the U.S. after losing an arbitration ruling under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, in December 2024. In a statement, USDA commended Mexico's action, saying it safeguards approximately $5.6 billion in U.S. corn exports to Mexico. USDA, in coordination with USTR, will continue to monitor Mexico's compliance with its USMCA commitments. USDA added, "The Trump Administration will continue to stand up for U.S. farmers and producers, including tackling countries' unjustified barriers to products of agricultural biotechnology." The U.S. exported $5.6 billion of corn to Mexico in 2024, which is the largest export market for U.S. corn. In the 2023-2024 season, the U.S. exported a record 24.5 million tons of corn to Mexico, according to the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service. *************************************************************************************** New York Live Poultry Markets Shuttered Due to Bird Flu All live poultry markets in New York City and Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties of New York were shut down Friday after seven cases of avian flu were detected at markets in the five boroughs during routine inspections, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said during a public health briefing. The closure is in effect through at least Feb. 14. During that time, no poultry can be delivered and healthy birds must be sold, Hochul said. Markets must disinfect, remain closed for five days and undergo state inspection before reopening. The governor said the shutdown was out of an abundance of caution. The state reports no cases of bird flu in humans. Avian flu is on the rise around the country, mostly impacting animals. But 66 humans contracted in the virus in the U.S. in 2024 and one person died, according to the New York State Department of Health. *************************************************************************************** China targets US Farm Equipment with Latest Tariffs Agricultural and farm machinery manufacturers could soon be affected by retaliatory tariffs from China after President Donald Trump’s levies took last Tuesday. Trump ordered 10% higher tariffs on imports from China and threatened Canada and Mexico with duties that were later delayed. After the president’s tariffs on Chinese goods took effect, the country struck back with its own 10% tariffs on U.S. goods, including agricultural machinery, which take effect Feb. 10. More than 50 U.S. farm and gardening products such as mowers, egg sorting machines, sugarcane harvesters and combines were listed as subject to tariffs, according to China’s Ministry of Finance. Several types of tractors, sprayers and planters were also included on the list. China’s tariffs come as Deere & Co, CNH and other farm equipment makers struggle with sluggish demand. After peaking in 2022, farmer incomes have drastically declined in response to lower corn and grain prices, leaving little to no room for heavy equipment upgrades. *************************************************************************************** Former Express Grain CEO Sentenced The former CEO of Greenwood, Mississippi-based Express Grain has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to immediately pay $69.8 million in restitution after pleading guilty to one count of wire fraud while working for the company. John R. Coleman was sentenced in the U.S. District Court for the District of Northern Mississippi on Jan. 30, 2025. As part of the judgement, the court released a list of 152 farmers and institutions to whom Coleman is ordered to pay restitution. Coleman was arrested on six-count indictment on wire fraud charges that came in connection with Express Grain's Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. In a plea agreement signed by Coleman, he admitted that he "did devise and intend to devise a scheme to defraud” farmers, UMB Bank and the Mississippi State Board of Agriculture and to obtain money by means of false and fraudulent pretenses. *************************************************************************************** JBS USA Settles Child Labor Violations The nation's largest meatpacking company JBS USA Food Company will pay $4 million as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), in connection with the company's use of child labor at meatpacking plants across the country. The DOL said on Monday the funds would be used to "prevent illegal child labor" and support victims of child labor nationwide while prioritizing those efforts in Guntersville, Alabama; Greeley, Colorado; Ottumwa, Iowa; Worthington, Minnesota; and Grand Island, Nebraska -- communities where JBS operates meatpacking plants. In addition, JBS will be required to hold third-party contractors and service providers accountable for illegal child labor. In 2022, the DOL investigated JBS meatpacking plants in several states and found that sanitation company Packers Sanitation Services Inc. employed at least 31 minors in hazardous occupations to do overnight cleaning at JBS plants. *************************************************************************************** Farmers Hit by USDA Funding Freeze USDA is withholding funds from farmers for conservation programs, despite the White House stating last week that funds to individuals would not be frozen. Contractors for conservation programs also have been affected by a funding freeze. The Iowa Soybean Association, for instance, cited in a letter to lawmakers that $11 million owed to farmers is at risk. Farmers are learning their conservation payments are frozen because those contracts were funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Two federal judges over the past week have ruled that the Trump administration did not have authority to block funding that was appropriated by Congress. At least one Missouri producer posted videos on TikTok worried he could lose his farm because USDA "reneged" on his cost-share contract with NRCS under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 10, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST No other major economic reports scheduled. Weather Two pieces of energy will combine across the Plains on Monday, with some snow across the North and rain across the South. The southern portion of the storm will become more dominant as it moves into the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys for Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 7, 2025 |
Strong Demand and High Prices Ahead for Cattle Producers The CattleFax Outlook Seminar held at CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio, Texas, shared expert market analysis. The U.S. beef industry is poised for another year of strong market performance, driven by tight cattle supplies and robust consumer demand. As the beef cow herd enters a stabilization phase following years of contraction, the resulting supply constraints have shifted market leverage decisively toward cattle producers. Weather conditions will remain a critical factor influencing grazing availability, herd expansion, and cattle prices. Meteorologist Matt Makens said La Niña this winter brings volatile weather changes across North America. U.S. producers will likely see drought acreage increase as it has nationwide since June. “Drought will likely increase across the Western U.S. this spring and into the Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, and Canadian prairies through this summer,” Makens said. Troy Bockleman, director of protein and grain analysis, noted that inflation eased in 2024, ending the year at 2.9 percent. ********************************************************************************** U.S. Ag Export Volumes Surged in 2024 Last year, most global importers took advantage of plentiful and cheaper U.S. bulk agricultural commodities, including soybeans and corn, the top ticket items. Reuters says milestones were notched among the top U.S. bulk grain destinations in 2024 as average export prices fell by more than one-fifth versus 2023. Lower prices meant this group of commodities pulled in five percent less revenue than the previous year, but the quantity was up significantly. By volume, U.S. bulk agricultural exports in 2024 surged 22 percent on the year, the largest annual rise in a decade. By value, U.S. agricultural and related product exports totaled $191 billion in 2024, up fractionally from 2023. That’s the third-largest on record in nominal dollar terms, down from 2022’s high of $213 billion. Canada, China, and Mexico are the top three markets for U.S. agriculture. Canada was the number one destination for U.S. farm goods in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Farm Sector Profits to Grow in 2025 USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts inflation-adjusted U.S. net cash farm income, defined as gross cash income minus cash expenses, to increase by $30.6 billion from 2024 to $193.7 billion in 2025. U.S. net farm income, a broader measure of farm sector profitability, is forecast to increase by $37.7 billion to $180.1 billion in 2025. The projected growth comes after net farm income declined in 2023 and is forecast to have declined in 2024. Most of the projected increase in 2025 corresponds to an increase in direct government payments to farmers, projected to increase from $9.6 billion in 2024 to $42.4 billion this year. This increase is expected largely because of supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance to farmers and ranchers from the American Relief Act of 2025, which became law in December 2024 and authorized assistance payments to producers and payments for losses related to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. *********************************************************************************** Thune, Booker Reintroduce the American Beef Labeling Act South Dakota Senator and Senate Majority Leader John Thune and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would reinstate mandatory country-of-origin labeling for beef. The American Beef Labeling Act would require the U.S. Trade Representative, in consultation with the USDA, to develop a World Trade Organization-compliant means of reinstating MCOOL for beef within one year of passage. Thune, a longtime supporter of MCOOL, said ranchers work tirelessly to produce some of the highest quality beef in the world, and they deserve a fair labeling system that provides consumers with basic information about the origin of their beef. Booker said, “For too long, the big meatpackers have been misleading people with deceptive labeling. More transparency will enable consumers to support local family farmers and ranchers.” The bill says the USTR would have six months to develop a reinstatement plan, followed by a six-month window to implement it. *********************************************************************************** Below Average Runoff in Upper Missouri River Basin The updated 2025 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. January runoff in the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 0.7 million acre-feet, 92 percent of the average. Runoff was near or below average for most of the Missouri River Basin, and most of the upper basin had below-normal precipitation. “Runoff into the reservoir system was below average for the month of January, and conditions across the basin remain dry,” said John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “With the below-average plains and mountain snowpack, we are forecasting a below-average runoff year for the basin.” The 2025 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 20.6 million acre-feet, 80 percent of the average. The start of the runoff season typically is March 1, when the total volume of water in the System is expected to be 50 million acre-feet. *********************************************************************************** Chinese Mystery Seed Packages are Back Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is urging all Texans to exercise extreme caution if they receive unsolicited packages containing unknown seeds or liquids. The Texas Ag Department has recently been alerted to a mystery package delivered to Clute, Texas, containing unidentified seeds and a liquid container sent unsolicited from China. “We’re asking you to take this matter seriously,” Commissioner Miller stressed. “Receiving any unsolicited liquid or chemical at your doorstep poses a significant risk to the health of you and your family.” He also says Texas residents cannot allow unidentified seeds to enter Texas. If they are invasive species and get planted, they will substantially harm the Texas agriculture industry. The Texas Ag Department promptly forwarded the package and its contents to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for thorough identification and testing. People who do get a foreign package containing seeds should never open it.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 7, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Employment and Wage Data for January at 7:30 a.m. CST StatsCan Stocks of Principal Field Crops in December at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Agricultural Trade Data -- USDA Economic Research Service at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitments of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A storm system moving through the Intermountain West on Friday morning should make it out into the Plains this evening. A band of snow will develop across the Northern Plains and into the Upper Midwest throughout the day, but rain will probably hold off farther south until this evening or overnight across the southeastern Plains and Ohio Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 6, 2025 |
Ag Manufacturers and Traders Report Tough Profit Outlooks Several of the biggest agricultural companies in America are feeling a pinch to their bottom lines. Reuters says Archer-Daniels-Midland posted its lowest fourth-quarter profits in six years, thanks to weak oilseed crush margins and uncertainty over U.S. biofuel policy. ADM, based in Chicago, says it’s going to cut costs by $500 million to $750 million during the next three to five years, including cutting 700 jobs to weather the downturn in the market. Bunge Global missed industry expectations for fourth-quarter profits after a global glut in crop prices took a hit on the grain traders’ margins. The agribusiness segment represents over 80 percent of the company’s revenue and saw its adjusted core earnings decline to $364 million in the fourth quarter from $639 million a year earlier. It’s also a tough go for machinery manufacturers as CNH Industrial forecast its full-year profit below Wall Street estimates because of low demand in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Investigates Farmworker Exploitation Case A Minnesota state investigation into farmworker exploitation at a Stearns County dairy farm has resulted in felony charges. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced that Keith Lawrence Schaefer is charged with four counts of wage theft of more than $5,000 and one count of racketeering. Ellison’s office brought civil action against the Evergreen Acres Dairy in Paynesville, Minnesota, last year, alleging theft of wages and mistreating workers from other countries. Investigators say he failed to pay overtime, withheld pay illegally, and made workers live in overcrowded and deplorable conditions. He also allegedly threatened to call immigration authorities when workers complained about the mistreatment. A criminal complaint filed in Stearns County this week outlines four consecutive six-month periods from 2022-2023 in which Schaefer reportedly stole $5,000 in wages or more. In one case, an employee never received his final paycheck of $3,000 owed for 204 hours worked in the last pay period. *********************************************************************************** Wisconsin Using Cheese Brine to Clear Icy Roads Cheese brine is being used to melt snow and ice off the roads in Monroe, Wisconsin. Green County Highway Commissioner Chris Narveson says the liquid is made up of 23 percent salt and is better for the environment. He says the salt doesn’t melt the snow, but it’s the brine that does it. The County has already used more than 75 thousand gallons of cheese brine. Business Insider points out that because cheese brine is a waste product that wouldn’t otherwise be used for any purpose, counties usually get it for free and only have to pay to transport it. “It costs Green County around $2.80 to $4.20 per mile to use cheese brine on its roads, while it costs more than ten times that amount - $15 to $25 per mile – to use rock salt,” Narveson said. Green County has a functioning cheese factory that can provide cheese brine. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle Herd Contraction is Slowing The recent Cattle on Feed Report was called neutral-to-slightly-positive by Bernt (BEAR-ent) Nelson, an economist with the American Farm Bureau. He says the overall rate of contraction in the U.S. cattle herd has slowed. However, factors like demand, beef prices, and trade, among other factors, will influence producers’ decisions about what to do with their animals. “Cash prices for fed steers recently hit record highs,” Nelson said. “While that’s good for sellers, it’s important to remember that they create obstacles for cattle buyers and can be a barrier for farmers who want to expand their herds.” He also says this isn’t a typical cattle cycle where high prices lead to growth in the U.S. herd. High cattle prices combined with the unpredictability of future prices and profitability could compel farmers to continue marketing a higher percentage of females for beef rather than breeding, which could continue the current contraction cycle. *********************************************************************************** Ukraine Grain Output and Exports Expected to Fall Ukraine’s Ag Department says the country’s grain output in the 2024-2025 marketing season is now forecast to drop 13 percent compared to the previous year. Production in the year ending on June 30 is expected to fall 13 percent annually as corn, barley, and rye output are all projected to drop. Corn production will plunge 24 percent from its 2023-2024 estimate to 24.6 million metric tons. The agency says Ukraine’s barley output is projected to drop three percent to 5.9 million metric tons. Rye production is projected to be 190,000 tons, an 18 percent year-over-year decrease. Wheat production is forecast at 22.9 million metric tons, little changed from the 2023-2024 estimate. Exports in the 2024-2025 marketing year are also expected to plummet. Two factors will limit grain exports, including the depletion of ending stocks in the calendar year 2022 due to the Russian invasion and to lower corn production estimates. *********************************************************************************** New Platform to Review Biologicals AgList is a new platform to help farmers discover ag biological products and see what other growers are using and recommending. There are hundreds of companies manufacturing ag biologicals, a broad category that includes biocontrols, biostimulants, and biofertilizers, to name a few. To date, farmers didn’t have a way to figure out which products might work best for their operations. Plus, the sheer number of products makes it difficult for manufacturers to stand out in a crowd. “It’s an extremely crowded space,” Dr. Pam Marrone said during the Salinas Biologicals Summit. “There are opportunities, but often the ones that come first are the easiest technically and don’t necessarily target what the growers need.” Brothers Tim and Tyler Nuss are family farmers themselves and are behind the launch of AgList. They know firsthand about the difficulties of finding the right ag biologicals. They plan to expand the platform in the future at aglist.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 6, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Argentine Crop Conditions Update at 12 p.m. CST Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Weather A system that brought a wintry mix of precipitation on Wednesday to the Midwest continues through the Northeast on Thursday with the same hazards. The next system in the pipeline will be moving into California later Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 5, 2025 |
U.S. Farmers Staying Optimistic for 2025 U.S. farmers retained their post-election optimistic outlook at the start of 2025 as the January Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose five points above December to 141. The barometer’s rise was primarily attributed to a nine-point rise in the Current Conditions Index. The Index of Future Expectations rose only three points in comparison. Compared to previous surveys, fewer producers in January pointed to lower crop and livestock prices as a top concern, which helped explain why producers felt better about the current situation. The shift in attitudes was attributable in part to an improvement in crop prices between December and January. Farmers remain more optimistic about the future than the current situation, as the Future Expectations Index was still 47 points above the Current Conditions Index. The Farm Financial Performance Index rose 14 points in January, a sign that producers expect this year to be better than 2024. *********************************************************************************** Ag Committee Unanimously Approves Rollins’ Nomination The Senate Agriculture Committee unanimously voted to advance Brooke Rollins to be the Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins will now be considered by the full U.S. Senate. National Association of Wheat Growers CEO Chandler Goule applauded the move. “Brooke Rollins will be an outstanding Secretary of Agriculture,” he said. “She is deeply committed to advocating for our country’s producers and understands what rural America faces.” He also said the Wheat Growers Association encourages the Senate to get her confirmed as quickly as possible. Ranking Democrat Amy Klobuchar said she would support the nomination, but Democrats are worried about workforce, tariff, and conservation issues. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a committee member, told the Hagstrom Report that he wants to bring up the nomination quickly but also said the pipeline is “full” this week. Groups like the American Farm Bureau, the American Sugar Alliance, and many others called for quick confirmation. *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Canadian Farmers Concerned About Tariffs New data from RealAgristudies confirms and quantifies the level of concern Canada’s farmers have regarding potential U.S. tariffs. Fifty-nine percent of respondents expect proposed U.S. tariffs will negatively impact their businesses. Only seven percent think there won’t be an effect on their operations. Another seven percent aren’t sure what the impact will be. Farmers who primarily produce livestock are slightly more likely to expect an impact on their business than mixed or primarily crop-focused farmers. There isn’t much difference in how farmers see the potential impact when you compare age, farm size, and geography. Overall, 88 percent of the survey respondents say they are very or somewhat concerned about the impact of tariffs on the Canadian economy. Only three percent of the respondents say they aren’t concerned. Livestock producers tend to see a trade war as more likely (88 percent) than mixed (72 percent) or primarily crop producers (75 percent). *********************************************************************************** Trump Pauses Tariffs on Canada and Mexico Leaders from Mexico and Canada said President Donald Trump stepped back from his threat to impose tariffs on its North American neighbors. However, tariffs on China were still set to take effect. The tariffs were part of a demand from U.S. President Trump that Canada and Mexico crack down on illegal immigration and drug smuggling. Reuters says Trudeau committed to deploying new technology and personnel along the U.S. border to stop the flow of fentanyl. Mexico agreed to reinforce its northern border with the U.S. with 10,000 National Guard members. The U.S. also committed to preventing the trafficking of high-powered weapons to Mexico. Trump warned Monday that he might increase the tariffs on Beijing beyond the ten percent he imposed and that he would discuss the matter with the Chinese government’s leadership in the next day or so. “China will stop sending fentanyl or the tariffs go higher,” Trump warned. *********************************************************************************** China Responds to Trump Tariffs China responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs by implementing a 15 percent tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas products. The Associated Press says China will also impose a ten percent tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine cars imported from the U.S. Both the 15 and ten percent tariffs will go into effect on Monday. “The unilateral tariff increase by the U.S. seriously violates the rules of the World Trade Organization,” the Chinese State Council Tariff Commission said in a statement. ‘It is not only unhelpful in solving its own problems but also damages normal economic and trade cooperation between the U.S. and China.” Some experts believe the limited reply of a 10 percent duty to President Trump’s tariffs is an attempt by China’s policymakers to engage the U.S. President in talks to avert an outright trade war between the world’s two largest economies. *********************************************************************************** National Ag Day is Next Month National Ag Day is scheduled for March 18, 2025. It’s a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies, and countless others across America join together to recognize the contributions that agriculture makes to our lives. The Agriculture Council of America hosts the campaign on a national level, but awareness efforts in communities across America are vital. The Ag Day Planning Guide has been created to help communities and organizations more effectively host Ag Day events. The National Ag Day Program encourages Americans to understand how food and fiber products are produced, value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy, and appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products. Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use, and wear daily, but too few people truly understand this contribution.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 5, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services for December at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST NASS State Stories including winter wheat conditions update at 11 a.m. CST Weather A system exiting the West is moving into the Plains on Wednesday. Though snow is moving across the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies with the system, the real precipitation response will occur in the Midwest for Wednesday. Temperatures will be borderline, however, causing a mix of rain, freezing rain, and some snow to develop later Wednesday and especially overnight.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 4, 2025 |
Tariff on Mexico Placed on Hold President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum say their planned tariffs were on hold for a month to allow for more time for negotiations. The Associated Press says Mexico announced plans to deploy 10,000 members of its National Guard to the U.S. border to address drug trafficking. The announcement came after what President Trump described on social media as a “very friendly conversation” and said he looked forward to the upcoming discussions. Trump said the talks will be headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and representatives from the Mexican government. “I look forward to participating in the negotiations with President Sheinbaum as we attempt to achieve a deal between our two countries,” Trump added. As a condition of the talks, Sheinbaum laid out changes in border policies, and Trump confirmed Mexico’s deployment of troops. *********************************************************************************** Canada to be “Forceful but Reasonable” Responding to Tariffs As Canada braces for a possible trade war and the economic fallout, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says his country will bring a “forceful but reasonable” retaliation to any U.S. tariffs. The Guardian says Trudeau acknowledged potentially difficult economic times ahead. Speaking to an advisory council on Canada-U.S. relations, Trudeau said, “I know Canadians might be anxious and worried, but I want them to know that all levels of government have their backs.” Canada sends 75 percent of all its goods and services exports to the U.S., its largest trading partner and closest ally. Trudeau points out that the trade spat is “not what we want,” but said if President Trump follows through on his threats, “We will also act.” A first round of retaliatory tariffs would cover $37 billion of U.S. exports to Canada. If needed, the second round would escalate by imposing tariffs on $110 billion worth of goods. An announcement on Monday afternoon put a 30 day delay in place for tariffs on Canada as well as Mexico. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle Inventory Down One Percent in January All cattle and calves in the United States as of January 1, 2025, totaled 86.7 million head, one percent below the 87.2 million head on January 1, 2024. All cows and heifers that have calved at 37.2 million head were slightly below the 37.4 million head last year. Beef cows, at 27.9 million head, were down one percent from a year ago. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the U.S. for all feedlots totaled 14.3 million head on January 1, 2025. That inventory is down one percent from the January 1, 2024, total of 14.4 million head. The USDA report says cattle on feed in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head accounted for 82.7 percent of the total cattle on feed on January 1, 2025. The 2024 calf crop in the U.S. was estimated at 33.5 million head, down slightly from the previous year’s calf crop. *********************************************************************************** Cattle and Bison Imports Resume from Mexico The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is announcing the resumption of cattle and bison imports from Mexico. Those imports will resume in the next several days. To protect U.S. livestock and other animals, APHIS halted shipments of bison and cattle from Mexico in November after positive detection of New World screwworm in southern Mexico. After extensive discussions between representatives of the U.S. and Mexico, APHIS and Mexico agreed to and implemented a comprehensive pre-clearance inspection and treatment protocol to ensure safe movement and mitigate the screwworm threat. Animals will be inspected and treated for screwworm by trained veterinarians before entering pre-export inspection pens, where they will again undergo inspection by Mexican officials before finally heading to final inspection by APHIS. Cattle and bison approved for importation into the United States will also be dipped in a solution to ensure they are insect- and tick-free. *********************************************************************************** Potential Settlement in Antitrust Case The National Farmers Union, R-CALF USA, and four fed cattle producers who filed a class-action antitrust lawsuit against JBS, Tyson, Cargill, and National Beef filed a motion looking for preliminary approval of a settlement. The motion was filed in a U.S. District Court for Minnesota and seeks approval of a proposed $83.5 million class action settlement with the defendants. Through their representation, the plaintiffs agreed to the proposed settlement, which includes an $83.5 million cash payment and certain non-monetary considerations. The settlement is not an admission of liability by JBS, which continues to deny any wrongdoing. “We are pleased to have reached a significant milestone in the case with the JBS settlement,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “We look forward to prosecuting our claims against the remaining defendants, Tyson, Cargill, and National Beef.” He also says the National Farmer’s Union is continuing its work to restore pricing transparency and competitiveness. *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Free Trade Talks Tariffs Farmers for Free Trade released a statement on the harm tariffs against Mexico and Canada would cause farmers and U.S. agriculture. Bob Hemesath (HEE-meh-sath), Farmers for Free Trade Board Chair, says, “Canada, Mexico, and China together buy half of all America’s ag exports. They are indispensable markets for the American ag economy’s health.” Hemesath adds that placing tariffs on the three largest export markets for American farmers and ranchers, particularly for any extended period, will have severe consequences because U.S. farmers are already struggling. “Record-high input costs, declining crop prices, and global supply gluts have created an environment where many farmers are operating at a loss,” Hemesath said. “Adding tariffs to the mix will only exacerbate the situation across most of rural America.” Mexico and Canada have been partners in trade agreements that have grown U.S. ag exports to those countries by over 300 percent in recent decades.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 4, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Factory Orders at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey at 9 a.m. CST No major USDA reports Weather A storm system is moving through the West on Tuesday, bringing areas of moderate to heavy precipitation to the Pacific Northwest. Areas east of the Rockies will have mostly quieter conditions outside of the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies, which will share some of the snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 3, 2025 |
Trump Tariffs to Take Effect Over Weekend President Donald Trump's threatened tariffs on China, Canada, Mexico and other countries are set to take effect Saturday, 2/1/2025. Goods from China could be subjected to a 10% tariff, while those from Mexico and Canada could come under tariffs of 25%. Trump confirmed that he's "in the process" of implementing the trade sanctions on China and left the door open to including oil in those tariffs. “I’ll be putting the tariff of 25 percent on Canada and Mexico, and we will really have to do that because we have very big deficits with those countries,” he said. “Those tariffs may or may not rise with time.” The action would make good on a threat Trump first made in the final days of the 2024 campaign, when he threatened to impose a tariff of 25 percent on all imports from Mexico, which is the top trade partner with the U.S., unless the Mexican government curbed the flow of migrants at the southern border. **************************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Protect AM Radio in New Vehicles A bipartisan group of senators has introduced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. The legislation would require automakers to keep AM radio accessible in all of their new passenger vehicles, including electric vehicles at no additional charge. The legislation comes as many major automakers are removing AM radio from their new vehicles. If enacted, the bill would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue a rule requiring new vehicles to maintain access to broadcast AM radio at no additional cost to the consumer and provide small vehicle manufacturers at least four years after the date DOT issues the rule to comply. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act also requires automakers to inform consumers, during the period before the rule takes effect, that the vehicles do not maintain access to broadcast AM radio. ********************************************************************************************* Ethanol Output Falls to Near Three-Month Low Ethanol production dropped to the lowest level in almost three months and inventories declined in the seven days that ended on Jan. 24, according to data from the Energy Information Administration. Output declined to an average of 1.015 million barrels a day, the agency said. That’s down from 1.099 million the previous week and the lowest level since the week that ended on Sept. 27, EIA said. Midwest production plunged to an average of 964,000 barrels a day, down from 1.042 million the week prior. That’s also the lowest since late September. Gulf Coast output dropped to 19,000 barrels a day, on average, from 24,000 barrels a week earlier, the agency said. That was the entirety of the losses as the remaining three regions' production was unchanged. East Coast and Rocky Mountain output were both steady at 11,000 barrels per day, and West Coast production was unchanged at 10,000 barrels a day for the fifth straight week, the government said. **************************************************************************************** Egg Prices are Soaring Due to Bird Flu Bird flu is forcing farmers to slaughter millions of chickens a month, pushing U.S. egg prices to more than double their cost in the summer of 2023. And it appears there may be no relief in sight, given the surge in demand as Easter approaches. The average price per dozen nationwide hit $4.15 in December. That’s not quite as high as the $4.82 record set two years ago, but the Agriculture Department predicts prices are going to soar another 20% this year. Shoppers in some parts of the country are already paying more than double the average price, or worse, finding empty shelves in their local grocery stores. Organic and cage-free varieties are even more expensive. Some grocery stores have even limited how many eggs shoppers can buy. **************************************************************************************** Smithfield’s CEO Touts Growth Outlook, Minimizes Threats from Deportations, Bird Flu Smithfield Foods’ CEO says he hopes that everything the company has done to make working in its plants more attractive ever since COVID tore through the industry during the pandemic will help it weather the impact of President Donald Trump’s promised mass deportations. Smithfield went public Tuesday more than a decade after the world’s largest pork producer was bought by China’s WH Group. CEO Shane Smith says he believes the company is positioned to grow in the next few years. He said Smithfield has streamlined its costs and is focused on more profitable packaged meats business through its brands like Eckrich, Armour, and Nathan’s Famous. The company’s shares went on sale for $20 and dipped less than a dollar in trading Tuesday before finishing close to the offering price, generating about $522 million for the Smithfield, Virginia-based company. **************************************************************************************** Bonsai Robotics Secures $15M to Advance Automated Fruit Harvesters Bonsai Robotics raised $15 million from investors to advance production of its automated harvester Visionsteer, which uses artificial intelligence to pick fruits and nuts in orchards. The recent funding will be used to enhance Bonsai’s software and expand the startup’s artificial intelligence platform and data set, according to a news release. The San Jose, California-based firm also plans to build its partnerships with manufacturers and farmers, as well as accelerate bringing its products to market. Bonsai’s flagship Visionsteer is a retrofit hardware kit that uses cameras and computers to make existing farm equipment operate autonomously. The company has conducted field trials with more than 40 farm vehicles integrated with the computer-vision technology across the U.S. and Australia. In 2023, Bonsai secured $13.5 million in early funding to accelerate production by making investments in hiring, sales and marketing. The latest funding round was led by Bison Ventures, with participation from Cibus Capital, Acre Venture Partners and other investors.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 3, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets S&P Manufacturing PMI at 8:45 a.m. CST Construction Spending at 9 a.m. CST ISM Manufacturing data at 9 a.m. CST Weekly Export Inspections 10 a.m. CST Fats and Oils report at 2 p.m. Grain Crushing and Flour Milling at 2 p.m. Weather A system moving through Canada has dropped a cold front down into the Corn Belt on Monday. A streak of snow has developed across the northern tier of the country with some moderate amounts. Very cold air has built up north of the front, but it is much warmer to the drier south.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 31, 2025 |
Rural Mainstreet Economy Contracts Again The January 2025 Rural Mainstreet Index fell below growth neutral for the 16th time in the past 17 months. For the eighth time in the past nine months, farmland prices took a tumble. On average, bank CEOs who responded to the monthly survey expect annual cash rents of $278 per acre of non-irrigated, non-pasture farmland. Farm equipment sales also dropped, making it 18 months in a row. Also on the survey, bankers expect one in five grain farmers to experience a negative cash flow for 2025. Approximately one-third of bank CEOs recommend that the Federal Reserve leave short-term interest rates unchanged in 2025. Data from the International Trade Association says regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for the first 11 months of 2024 rose by $673.4 million to $11.6 billion from the same period in 2023 for a 6.2 percent gain. Mexico was the top destination for 2024 ag exports. ********************************************************************************** NASDA Sets 2025 Policy Focus The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s member-led Board of Directors chose five issues to serve as the organization’s primary policy focus for 2025. The priorities include a new farm bill, food systems, pesticide regulation, PFAS, and state cooperative agreement funding. “NASDA members specified these areas as necessary to work on to best support farmers, ranchers, and communities nationwide,” says NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. “We believe these areas represent critical opportunities where state departments of agriculture can lead impactful change and champion effective policy solutions this year.” Among the main priorities, NASDA will advocate for policies and programs that fortify U.S. food systems, enhance supply chain resilience, and improve reliable access to nutritious foods. NASDA says it will engage with the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure science-based standards and state input are incorporated in regulatory initiatives such as the Endangered Species Act Workplan. For more information, go to nasda.org. *********************************************************************************** Zeldin is the New Head of the EPA Lee Zeldin was sworn in as the new administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Administrator Zeldin will work closely on the EPA’s mission. Zeldin says he’s honored to be the 17th administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. “We will take great strides to defend every American’s access to clean air, clean water, and clean land,” he said. “We’ll maintain and expand the gold standard of environmental stewardship and conservation we saw in President Trump’s first term.” U.S. ag groups reacted positively and noted that they’re ready to work with the new EPA chief. “We look forward to working with him on corn grower issues like increasing ethanol blends and ensuring access to inputs required to produce food, feed, and fuel,” says Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association. “For far too long, the EPA has stood for ‘Ending Production Agriculture,” says NCBA Vice President Ethan Lane. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agriculture Directly in the Bullseye Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said she doesn’t believe the U.S. will impose tariffs on Saturday, February 1, as President Donald Trump had pledged. Reuters says her administration has already put a response plan in place if it becomes needed. The report says retaliatory tariffs would initially exempt the auto industry, sparing what has become Mexico’s most important manufacturing sector and one closely integrated with the U.S. The retaliatory tariffs will likely hit pork products, cheese, apples, grapes, potatoes, cranberries, and Bourbon whiskey, as well as manufactured steel and aluminum. “Mexico has chosen these products because they have a big impact on regions that overwhelmingly voted for President Trump,” Sheinbaum said. Bloomberg says Howard Lutnick, Trump’s pick to lead the Commerce Department, says Mexico and Canada can avoid the tariffs if they tighten border security. “If we’re your biggest trading partner, show us some respect and shut your border,” Trump had said. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Falls to Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production dropped to its lowest level in almost three months, and inventories declined during the week ending on January 24. Output declined to an average of 1.015 million barrels a day. That’s down from 1.099 million the previous week and the lowest level since the week that ended on September 27. The EIA says Midwest production plunged to an average of 964,000 barrels a day, down from 1.042 million the week before. That’s also the lowest level since September. Gulf Coast output dropped to 19,000 barrels a day from 24,000 barrels a week earlier. That’s the entirety of the losses because the remaining three regions’ production was unchanged. East Coast and Rocky Mountain output were both steady at 11,000 barrels a day, while West Coast production averaged 10,000 barrels. Ethanol inventories were down to 25.72 million barrels. That’s down from 25.8 million the previous week. *********************************************************************************** Chicken Wings and the Super Bowl Kansas City is known for its barbecue, and Philadelphia for its cheesesteaks. When it comes to Super Bowl menus, nothing is hotter than wings. The National Chicken Council released its annual Chicken Wing Report, projecting Americans will consume 1.47 billion chicken wings while watching the Chiefs and Eagles battle for the Lombardi Trophy. “Matthew McConaughey was right: football is for food,” says NCC Spokesman Tom Super. “Sure, there will be pizza, guacamole, chips, and dips, but when it comes to the Super Bowl, chicken wings will rule the roost.” To put it in context, if every player in the NFL ate 50 wings a day (and was immortal), it would take them collectively 720 years to eat 1.47 billion. 1.47 billion wings laid end to end would stretch from Arrowhead Stadium in KC to Lincoln Financial Field in Philly about 63 times. “We love our football and wings,” Super said.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 31, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditure data at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Monthly Biofuels Capacity and Feedstocks at 11 a.m. CST USDA Cattle Inventory Report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A system that dumped some heavy rain in the South-Central states on Thursday continues east through the Midwest, Southeast, and East Coast for Friday. Most of its precipitation is rain but some snow will mix in across the northern edge in the southern Great Lakes. The Pacific Northwest is seeing heavy precipitation move into the region while cold air is starting to build into western Canada.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 30, 2025 |
Kansas Aquifer Drops a Foot Kansans rely on the Ogallala (oh-gah-LAH-lah) Aquifer in western Kansas for everything from irrigation to drinking water, and it fell more than a foot last year. The Kansas Geological Survey recently completed its annual campaign to measure the aquifer, which supplies one-third of the state with water. The Ogallala is the largest underground source of fresh water in the nation. The Kansas Reflector reports that aquifer levels in the groundwater management area fell by 1.52 feet between January 2024 and this month, a larger drop than the 1.43-foot decline the year before. Oklahoma State University reported that approximately 14 percent of the total aquifer consists of irrigated acres capable of producing $7 billion in crop sales. The aquifer also provides one-fourth of the total water supply used for agricultural production across the U.S. Kansas Governor Laura Kelley says if nothing happens, the farming industry and western Kansas will dry up. ********************************************************************************** Bill Would Repeal the 45Z Tax Credit Representative Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) recently introduced a bill that aims to repeal the Section 45Z clean fuel production credit. The tax credit, established by the Inflation Reduction Act, supports the production of various low-carbon transportation fuels. The technology-neutral credit is available for numerous biobased and renewable fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, ethanol, renewable natural gas, and biodiesel, provided they meet lifecycle greenhouse gas reduction requirements. Fuels must be produced in the U.S. and not emit more than the limit of carbon dioxide equivalent established by the GREET model to qualify for the credit. Initial guidance on 45Z was released on January 10. The bill introduced on January 16 would repeal the 45Z tax credit, effective on December 31, 2024. Following its introduction, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. Ethanol Producer Dot Com says to date, no other lawmakers have cosponsored the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Meat Institute Strategies to Reduce Meat Prices The Meat Institute sent a letter to President Donald Trump to provide strategies to reduce burdensome regulations and address meat prices for consumers. The letter included a list of recommended actions for the administration to take, including rescinding the final rule under the Packers and Stockyards Act put in place in March 2024. “Despite a lack of legal authority and court precedent to the contrary, the rule attempts to enshrine diversity, equity, and inclusion concepts into the Packers and Stockyards Act,” The Institute said. It also recommends directing the Ag Secretary to rescind the final rule, “Poultry Grower Payment Systems and Capital Improvement Systems.” Paired with the complete list of recommendations to clear up regulatory impediments, the Meat Institute also supports the USDA’s inspection modernization for pork and poultry processing. The Institute also encourages USDA to issue Interim Final Rules to allow pork and poultry facilities to operate above traditional line speed restrictions. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Establishes 2025 Policy Priorities Farmer and rancher delegates to the American Farm Bureau’s annual convention adopted policies to guide the organization’s work in 2025. “Policy priorities include everything from passing a new farm bill, enacting regulatory reform, and creating new markets for the men and women dedicated to keeping America’s pantries stocked,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. Delegates also adopted policy supporting the development and sale of domestically sourced sustainable aviation fuel, including expanding the list of acceptable conservation practices for feedstock eligibility. They also strengthened policy on alternative energy production, including increasing the responsibility of energy companies to manage land used for development and prioritizing energy production on land not suitable for agriculture. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a strong agricultural workforce, delegates voted to stabilize labor costs to avoid drastic swings that put the economic sustainability of farms at risk. Next year’s AFBF Convention will be in Anaheim, California. *********************************************************************************** Sugar Alliance Congratulates Officials on Confirmations On behalf of the nation’s sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and workers, the American Sugar Alliance congratulated Kristi Noem on her confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security. “We look forward to once again partnering with Secretary Noem to address the needs and priorities of America’s sugar producers,” the Alliance said. “From her time in Congress and as Governor of South Dakota, Secretary Noem knows well the challenges faced by the agriculture industry, which includes strong enforcement of U.S. trade and customs laws and safeguarding the supply chains that power America’s rural economies.” The Alliance also congratulated Marco Rubio on his confirmation as Secretary of State. “As the former Senator from Florida, Secretary Rubio understands just how deeply American sugar production is tied to America’s economy, food security, and rural communities,” the Alliance said. American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and their workers supply about 75 percent of the sugar consumed nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Give FFA Day is February 20 February 20 is the tenth annual Give FFA Day during National FFA Week. The day is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of over a million FFA members across the country and growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world. The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization with the mission of helping students develop their leadership skills and explore career paths in agriculture. Funds raised on Give FFA Day support the FFA and agricultural education at the local, state, and national levels. The money supports special programs and events, provides the iconic FFA blue jackets to students, supplemental travel costs for career and leadership training, and pays for teacher support and resources throughout the year. “We know that every gift makes a difference and are grateful to our donors for their continued support,” says Kim Coveney, FFA’s manager of individual giving.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 30, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. 4Q GDP at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Argentina's Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Crop Update at 12:00 p.m. CST U.S. Weekly Slaughter at 2:00 p.m. CST Weather A storm system building in the Southern Plains with areas of thunderstorms and heavy rain from Texas into Arkansas will spread northeast into the Ohio Valley and Delta for Thursday. Heavy rain could cause flooding in some areas. Some severe thunderstorms will be possible around Louisiana as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 29, 2025 |
New Strain of Bird Flu Hits California Flock The United States reported its first outbreak of H5N9 bird flu in poultry on a duck farm in California. Reuters said that authorities also detected the more common H5N1 strain on the same farm in Merced (mer-SAID) County, California. Almost 119,000 birds on the farm had been killed by December 2. A recent outbreak of bird flu in poultry in Georgia, the biggest chicken producer in the U.S., is set to trigger trade restrictions from major meat importers. Reuters said an industry group warned last week that a move of that kind could financially harm farmers and processors. The USDA’s most recent egg price outlook says egg prices were predicted to increase by 20 percent in 2025, compared to 2.2 percent for overall food prices. USA Today says, “The USDA attributed the rise in egg costs to the bird flu outbreak which caused a strain in the number of layers.” ********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Lead World Food Prize Foundation The World Food Prize Foundation says former Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will serve as the new CEO of the organization beginning on March 1, 2025. As the CEO, the Foundation says Vilsack will leverage his extensive leadership and diplomatic experience to enhance the Foundation’s global impact in food security and sustainable agriculture. “The World Food Prize Foundation has a phenomenal and important history of advancing innovation to address global food security,” Vilsack says. “I look forward to forging new partnerships, helping bring to life new solutions in the fight against hunger, and championing efforts to ensure a sustainable and equitable food system for future generations.” In his new role, Vilsack will focus on expanding the Foundation’s global network and will further position the Foundation as a leader in addressing global food insecurity. “I’m honored to help build on the outstanding legacy of the World Food Prize Foundation,” Vilsack adds. *********************************************************************************** SD Bill Aims to Prevent Eminent Domain The South Dakota House State Affairs Committee voted 10-3 to advance a bill preventing the use of eminent domain for the development of carbon dioxide pipelines in the state. The legislation was introduced on January 15 and referred to the House State Affairs Committee, which addressed it on January 24. During the hearing, numerous landowners testified in support of the bill, while representatives from Summit Carbon Solutions, the South Dakota Ethanol Producers Association, and several other ethanol producers testified against the legislation. Ethanol Producer Dot Com says an attorney representing Summit clarified that the bill purports to eliminate the privilege of eminent domain from the Summit pipeline project based on what it carries, which is a non-flammable, not-explosive gas that is emitted into the state’s air daily. To develop the pipeline project, Summit is seeking easements from landowners to bury a pipeline underground. The company says, “There’s no land grab here.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Organizations Conclude Mission to India National Sorghum Producers and the United Sorghum Checkoff Program recently joined the U.S. Grains Council for its annual Joint Officer’s Mission in India. The goal was to strengthen relationships with the country’s feed industry, explore sustainable aviation fuel priorities, and highlight U.S. sorghum as a non-genetically modified option for India’s importers. “Promotional efforts by the Council and sorghum organizations have generated notable interest from Indian poultry producers facing escalating input costs,” says Verity Ulibarri (oo-lih-BAR-ee), chairwoman of the USGC. “Our discussions emphasized U.S. sorghum’s benefits and laid the groundwork for deeper trade ties.” India’s emergence as a net coarse grains importer highlights the growing demand for reliable, high-quality feed grains. With record feed costs and ambitious ethanol blending targets, Indian buyers sought insights into how U.S. sorghum can support economic and environmental goals. “As India’s poultry production grows, U.S. sorghum offers a dependable, low-carbon solution,” says Amy France, NSP Chair. *********************************************************************************** Korean Unrest Not Affecting Beef Demand South Korea’s President was arrested and indicted after briefly imposing martial law in December. He also faces an impeachment trial that will determine if he’s removed from office. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says that while the political turmoil has further weakened Korea’s currency, consumers are largely unfazed by the situation, and it has not affected demand for U.S. red meat. South Korea is the leading value market for U.S. beef exports, with shipments through November of last year totaling over $2 billion, up five percent from the previous year. U.S. pork exports to Korea climbed 21 percent over the same period to $669 million, although exports slowed to some degree in the fourth quarter of this year. This week marks the Lunar New Year, a holiday celebration that typically drives both retail and food service sales of red meat. The South Korean government is extending the holiday to boost consumer spending. *********************************************************************************** Don’t Run the Clock Out on Food Safety During the Super Bowl The USDA says if you’re hosting a Super Bowl party this year, keep food safety in your playbook to ensure that bacteria doesn’t run out the clock. The Food Safety and Inspection Service has a plan to keep your Super Bowl servings penalty-free. “One of the biggest threats to a successful game day meal is bacteria that causes foodborne illness,” says FSIS Administrator Dr. Denise Eblen. “Make sure the takeout or delivered food is quickly refrigerated or placed in an oven until your guests arrive.” Pizza, chicken wings, hamburger sliders, chili, and other Super Bowl favorites cannot stay at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria will multiply to unsafe levels if perishable food is left out in the open. Whether it’s takeout or delivered food, serve promptly or divide the food into smaller portions and place it in shallow containers until you’re ready to reheat the food and serve guests.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 29, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Advanced U.S. Trade Balance in Goods at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST U.S. FOMC Interest Rate Announcement at 1 p.m. CST followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference Weather A storm system is leaving the Southwest and moving into the Southern Plains on Wednesday. Showers will increase throughout the day and some severe weather will be possible in Texas by the evening. Other areas of the country will remain warm and dry outside of the snow carried by a clipper moving through the Northeast.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 28, 2025 |
USDA Trade Mission to Expand Exports to Thailand The USDA will spearhead a trade mission to Thailand from February 3-6, 2025, to expand agricultural exports and strengthen trade ties in Southeast Asia. The mission includes 40 agribusinesses, trade organizations, and representatives from five state departments of agriculture. “The mission isn’t just about boosting exports,” said Patrick Packnett of the Foreign Agricultural Service. “It’s about creating enduring partnerships that benefit American farmers and meet the growing demand of Southeast Asian consumers for high-quality U.S.-grown products.” In 2023, the U.S. exported $1.2 billion in agricultural products to Thailand, making America the country’s fifth-largest supplier. While bulk commodities dominate current exports, Thailand’s expanding middle class and growing demand for imported goods create strong opportunities for U.S. consumer-oriented products. With a population of 70 million and real GDP projected to rise 2.6 percent in 2024, the region offers significant growth potential. The mission will include meetings with officials from Thailand and Burma. ********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Down One Percent 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 11.8 million head on January 1, 2025. The inventory was one percent below January 1, 2024. The inventory includes 7.25 million steers and steer calves, up one percent from the previous year. This group accounted for 61 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.58 million head, down three percent from 2024. “This report was about as bullish of a report that cattlemen could have hoped for,” says DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart. “It’s a relief to see more marketings taking place, which, in combination with lighter placements, helped decrease the total number of cattle on feed.” Marketings of fed cattle during December totaled 1.74 million head, one percent higher than last year. Other disappearances totaled 59,000 head during December, two percent below 2023. *********************************************************************************** Communicating with Farmers Under Stress Webinar An upcoming Penn State University Extension Service webinar titled “Communicating with Farmers Under Stress” is scheduled for February 24, 2025. The webinar will help participants learn the signs of stress and how to help. The program is designed for agriculture industry professionals, loan officers, family members of farmers, and concerned citizens. The webinar will help participants build awareness of the stressors affecting farmers and their families and recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety and warning signs of suicide. They’ll learn to access, approach, and assist farmers who are showing changes in their mental health and help access local, state, and national resources. The webinar is free, but attendees must register before the start of the webinar to get the access link. Those who register also get a link to watch the recording of the program. For more information or to sign up, go to the Penn State Extension website. *********************************************************************************** ASI Convention Shines a Light on Flock’s Future Sheep producers from across the country shared a renewed excitement for the industry’s future as a panel of solar grazers pointed toward new heights for the American sheep flock. Agrivoltaics is the practice of using land for both agriculture and solar energy production, and more often than not, at this point, that agricultural use is the grazing of sheep. The explosion of solar fields throughout the country has created a whole new job for America’s sheep, and producers are welcoming the opportunity to supplement their incomes with grazing fees. While solar grazing has allowed producers to expand their flocks, it has also welcomed newcomers who often found the lack of land an expensive barrier to getting into the industry. The Western wildfires that dominated the news in recent weeks have also put a spotlight on grazing and the role it can play in the climate discussion and wildfire prevention. *********************************************************************************** House Passes Key Land Management Bills The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council applauded House passage of two significant land management bills that are strongly supported by America’s livestock producers. They are the ACRES Act and the Fix Our Forests Act. “Devastating wildfires throughout the West have shown that the federal government needs to step up their protection of western landscapes, and that starts by supporting farmers and ranchers on the ground whose hard work helps reduce wildfire risk,” says NCBA President and Wyoming rancher Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). These bills increase the West’s resiliency against wildfires and strengthen the accountability of federal agencies. The ACRES Act requires USDA and the Interior Department to accurately report their activities in reducing hazardous wildfire fuels. The Fix Our Forests Act supports livestock grazing as a valuable tool for reducing wildfire risk, reduces frivolous lawsuits, and supports other measures to protect the West from enduring catastrophic wildfires. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Share of China’s Soybean Market Dropped in 2024 China’s soybean imports from the United States dropped five percent in 2024 from the previous year. Reuters says, “U.S. soybean imports were replaced in the Chinese market by shipments from Brazil and Argentina as fears of a renewed trade war between China and the U.S. dropped America’s market share.” Brazil remained China’s top soybean supplier last year as Beijing expanded its efforts to reduce its reliance on the United States and deepened cooperation with other suppliers to ensure China’s food security. “Brazil’s market share rose to 71 percent while the U.S. market share dropped to 21 percent,” Reuters reported. “Argentina’s soybean exports to China more than doubled to 4.1 million tons in 2024 from 1.95 million tons in 2023.” The report said that U.S. shipments to China have risen since April 2024 and accelerated during the past few months as traders prepared for a potential halt to soybean trade between the two countries.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 28, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. FOMC Meeting Begins U.S. Durable Good Orders at 8:30 a.m. CST U.S. Consumer Confidence at 9 a.m. CST Weather A clipper is moving through the Northeast Tuesday with another on its heels to move through the Great Lakes. Both are producing areas of snow and gusty winds. The rest of the country awaits an upper-level low-pressure center in the Southwest that will cause a larger storm system starting in the Southern Plains on Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 27, 2025 |
Supreme Court Lifts Corporate Transparency Act Injunction National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus reacted to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to lift the injunction that temporarily halted enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act’s reporting requirements. “Cattle producers across the country are disappointed in the Supreme Court ruling, which will allow the federal government to blanket family-owned farms and ranches in fresh red tape while subjecting millions of law-abiding small business owners to potential legal jeopardy,” Bacus said. “We urge President Trump and his administration to rescue millions of American small business owners from these burdensome reporting requirements and delay enforcement until a meaningful solution is found.” The Court placed a previous injunction on hold that had been in place since December. Reuters says enforcing the law is still blocked and companies aren’t required to report the information resulting from a separate order issued on January 7 by a U.S. District Judge in Texas. ********************************************************************************** USDA Secretary Nominee Has Confirmation Hearing Ag Secretary nominee Brooke Rollins spoke with Senators on a wide range of topics during her confirmation hearing last week. As President Donald Trump considers another round of tariffs, she said USDA will be prepared again to give aid to farmers if they face retaliatory tariffs from other countries. Rollins mentioned that she’s already spoken with Sonny Perdue, Trump’s Ag Secretary during his first term, about USDA’s previous response to the trade war with China. Also, despite concerns about farmworkers being deported, Rollins said she’s willing to work with the Departments of Labor and Congress to reform the H-2A migrant-labor program. Farm Policy News reported that the hearing was “congenial and bipartisan,” but that didn’t stop Senators from raising several concerns, including biofuels. The Renewable Fuels Association said it was great to hear Rollins say she will “defend, elevate, and honor” all sources of fuel, including ethanol. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Rises in Mid-January Ethanol output rose during the seven days ending on January 17 as inventories climbed to their highest level in nine months. Data from the Energy Information Administration says production increased to an average of 1.099 million barrels a day, up from 1.095 million barrels during the prior week. The agency said the Midwest, which produces the most ethanol in the country, produced a slightly higher 1.042 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.041 million barrels during the previous week. The Gulf Coast region’s output rose to an average of 24,000 barrels a day from 22,000 during the prior week. That was all the weekly gains as the output in the East Coast and Rocky Mountain regions remained unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol stockpiles jumped during the week to 25.874 million barrels. That’s up from 25.008 barrels a week earlier and the largest since the week ending on April 12. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska, SD Say No to Lab-Grown Meat Following an executive order last year prohibiting Nebraska state agencies from buying lab-grown meat, Nebraska’s Governor Jim Pillen recently vocalized his support of proposed bill LB246. The National Agricultural Law Center says the bill would ban the manufacturing, production, importation, distribution, and sale of lab-grown meat in Nebraska by classifying “cultivated-protein food product” as an adulterant. It was introduced at the governor’s request and has been referred to the Agriculture Committee. To become law, it has to pass the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature and get signed into law by the governor. Also, a bill defining and requiring lab-grown meat to be clearly labeled has advanced through a committee in the South Dakota House of Representatives. HB1022 defines “cell-cultured protein” and classifies cell-cultured proteins that are not labeled as such to be misbranded. The bill has to pass both the South Dakota House and Senate and be signed into law by the governor. *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Revoke China’s Normalized Trade Relation Status Congressmen John Moolenaar (MOE-leh-nar) (R-MI) and Tom Suozzi (soo-OZZY) (D-N Y) introduced the Restoring Trade Fairness Act, the first bipartisan bill that would revoke China’s Permanent Normalized Trade Relations. “The Act is a critical step toward ending the unfair economic practices of the Chinese Communist Party that have hurt American workers and weakened our national security,” Moolenaar said. “For too long, permanent normal trade relations with China have undermined our manufacturing base, shifted American jobs abroad, and allowed the CCP to exploit our markets while betraying the promise of fair competition.” This legislation will safeguard U.S. national security, enhance supply chain resilience, and bring manufacturing jobs back to America and our allies. “This bipartisan bill makes the message clear that the Chinese Communist Party cannot receive preferential treatment because of its unfair trade practices,” said Congressman Suozzi. Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jim Banks (R-IN) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation Highlights January Success January successfully launched an exciting new year for the Angus Foundation, bringing with it numerous opportunities to advance education, youth, and research. Thanks to the enthusiastic and generous support garnered through the events held in conjunction with the Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, this year is shaping up to be another year of impact for the Foundation. Contributions in support of the Foundation’s missions helped raise over $150,000 through “Join us in January” events like the Angus Foundation Heifer Package and Herdsman Social Auction. “The funds help us to have continued success for our Angus membership through leadership and educational development, advancement of the breed’s genetics, and development of our next generation," said Jaclyn Boester, executive director of the Angus Foundation. “It is astonishing to have the unwavering support of our donors and supporters to keep advancing our Foundation’s mission.” You can learn more about the Angus Foundation at angus.org/foundation.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 27, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. New Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Weather A small disturbance is moving through the Southeast on Monday with scattered rain. To the north, a clipper system is moving across Canada. Its cold front will drag down into the Great Lakes and Northeast, producing some strong winds and areas of snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 24, 2025 |
Amazon-Backed Windfall Bio Hits Commercial Milestone for Methane-Eating Microbes Amazon-backed startup Windfall Bio said it successfully scaled production of methane-eating microbes, a milestone in sustainable fertilizer development. Windfall Bio said fermentation of the microbes reached 17,000 liters, representing commercial-scale production of its methane removal solution. The microbes consume methane and transform into nitrogen-rich biomass that can be processed into high-value organic fertilizer. Windfall is testing its organic fertilizer as it pursues regulatory approvals. It is also providing large samples to customers to establish a market. This achievement not only demonstrates our ability to deploy a nature-based solution at scale but also redefines how industries can turn harmful methane emissions into valuable products like organic fertilizer, Josh Silverman, co-founder and CEO of Windfall Bio, said in a statement. ********************************************************************************************* Farm Costs in 2025? Here Are the Results from the Latest Poll A recent poll asked farmers where they plan to cut costs. Equipment purchases topped the list, but farmers also plan to scale back on fertilizer rates, use more generic products and reduce tillage or field passes. The theme that consumed the crops side of agriculture in 2024 was this: tighter margins with producers from coast to coast searching for ways to cut back. It was tough, tough recipe for a lot of farmers, and it could be a similar story for 2025. Out of the more than 1,300 farmers who responded to the online poll, the most glaring answer was machinery. Nearly 80 percent of farmers say that’s an area they’re likely to cut. Purchasing machinery was also a place farmers decided to scale back on in 2024. The latest Association of Equipment Manufacturers flash report shows sales of total farm tractors were down 13 percent on the year and combines fell 24 percent. ********************************************************************************************* Perdue Farms to Shutter Tennessee Chicken Plant Perdue Farms is set to close a chicken production plant in Monterey, Tennessee and will lay off more than 400 workers, the company confirmed to Agriculture Dive on Tuesday. The processor will shut down the facility on March 28, citing changes in market demand and how it processes and supplies chicken products for today’s customers. Addressing the Monterey plant’s challenges would require substantial additional investments to maintain operations. About 433 jobs will be eliminated as part of the closure. Perdue CEO Kevin McAdams said in a statement that the company will provide severance packages and job placement support to affected workers. They said the decision was not made lightly, and they are committed to treating every impacted associate with dignity, respect, and care. The poultry processor is one of the latest meatpackers to roll back production capabilities. In 2023, Tyson Foods closed six chicken processing plants to address supply and demand imbalances and shore up costs. ******************************************************************************************** USDA Releases Guidance on Climate-Smart Crops in Biofuels USDA has issued guidance regarding climate-smart crops used in the manufacture of biofuels. The interim rule gives insight into how farmers can access renewable fuel tax credits, though a Trump administration freeze on recent federal regulations is creating more uncertainty. The U.S. Department of Agriculture introduced guidance to help farms measure the emissions saved from climate-smart crops grown for biofuels, a step toward helping producers access renewable fuel tax credits. The interim rule, released roughly a week before the end of Former President Joe Biden’s term, establishes standards to track and report the impacts of sustainable farming practices in corn, soy and sorghum — three major feedstocks used in alternative fuels. The guidance had been expected to increase farm participation in biofuel tax credit programs. However, a Trump administration freeze on recent federal regulation injects uncertainty into the future of these new opportunities. ******************************************************************************************** SARE Fellows Program Temporarily on Hold The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Outreach and its national partners have announced they will temporarily suspend the SARE Fellows program and will not by accepting Fellows applications this year. SARE Fellows, which began in 2007, has been utilized by agricultural professionals for professional development opportunities through national study tours focused on sustainable agriculture. In a statement, SARE says the Fellows program has not changed since it began and program updates are necessary to meet the current needs of the nation’s sustainable agricultural communities and partners. Pausing the program will allow them time to focus on improvements. They plan to relaunch a new SARE Outreach program in the future that is similar in its intention to the SARE Fellows program. They say the new program will still provide professional development opportunities to agricultural professionals and will continue to keep sustainable agriculture and farmers at the center of its mission. ******************************************************************************************* NCBA Announces Two Internship Opportunities The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced applications for two internship opportunities available summer 2025, a public policy internship based in Washington, D.C. and a meetings and events internship based in Centennial, Colorado. The public policy internship is held in conjunction with the Public Lands Council (PLC) and interns will have the opportunity to work on government advocacy projects that advance NCBA’s and PLC’s policy priorities. Interns will participate in research, monitor federal regulations and congressional activity, and participate in meetings with policy stakeholders. The meetings and events internship will give students an opportunity to learn about managing public events including logistics, marketing, venue coordination, and budgeting. Meetings and events interns will assist in the planning of NCBA’s annual Summer Business Meeting and CattleCon. For more information and to complete an application, visit ncba.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 24, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Consumer Sentiment at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Existing Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST USDA Cattle on Feed Report at 1 p.m. CST Mato Grosso Institute of Agricultural Economics Weekly Soybean Harvest Update at 1 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system is moving across northern areas of the country on Friday, bringing areas of mostly light snow. Much of the rest of the country will remain dry.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 23, 2025 |
Ten Percent Tariff Coming on Chinese Imports In his second day in office, President Donald Trump aimed at China and the European Union with tariff threats. That’s after putting Canada and Mexico in the bullseye on day one. Bloomberg says that White House officials are discussing a ten percent tariff on China, based on the fact they’re sending fentanyl to the U.S. through Mexico and Canada. In response to the tariff threat, Farm Policy News says China is “willing to maintain communication with the U.S. to properly handle differences and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.” While the U.S. is China’s largest trading partner, China’s imports from the U.S. dropped 0.1 percent in dollar terms last year while exports grew 4.9 percent. China’s trade surplus with the U.S. was $361 million in 2024, higher than the $316 million reported in the last year of President Trump’s first term. President Trump’s first action on trade was ordering an investigation into U.S.-China trade. ********************************************************************************** Cargill to Pay $32 Million to Settle Lawsuit Cargill has agreed to pay $32.5 million to settle a class action lawsuit that accuses the meatpacking giant of conspiring with other companies to artificially raise the price of turkeys. The deal was filed in the Northern Illinois U.S. District Court and still needs to be approved by the court. The lawsuit accused Cargill and Tyson, plus other major producers like Butterball and Perdue Farms, of coordinating to intentionally reduce the U.S. turkey supply to raise consumer prices. A class action lawsuit was filed in 2019 that claims for years, the nation’s largest turkey producers illegally increased prices in a scheme that cost consumers millions of dollars and forced grocery stores to pay higher prices for deli meat and other products. Agricultural Dive says the meat producers allegedly used data company Agri Stats to exchange sensitive information about production and pricing. The suit covers meatpacker activities from 2010-2017. *********************************************************************************** Irrigation Association Applauds Fordyce Nomination The Irrigation Association expressed its strong support for the nomination of Richard Fordyce as USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. Fordyce, a Missouri farmer and former Farm Service Agency Administrator, brings extensive experience to the role. The association says he has a “strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing American agriculture.” Irrigation Association CEO Natasha Rankin says she’s pleased to congratulate Fordyce for his nomination on behalf of the association. “We look forward to working with him to help support American farmers increase their productivity while showcasing the positive impacts of irrigation,” Rankin says. “Together, we can advance the stewardship of our nation’s water and natural resources, ensuring the vitality of agriculture, and continuing to demonstrate the benefits of adopting sustainable irrigation practices.” The Irrigation Association also emphasized Fordyce’s background as both a farmer and leader at the federal and state levels, noting his potential to champion policies promoting innovation. *********************************************************************************** December Egg Production Down Three Percent Egg Production in the United States totaled 9.12 billion during December 2024, down three percent from 2023. Production included 7.83 billion table eggs and 1.29 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.9 billion were broiler-type and 95.9 million were egg-type. The total number of layers during December averaged 373 million, down three percent from 2023. December egg production per 100 layers was 2,448 eggs, one percent lower than December 2023. All layers on January 1, 2025, totaled 369 million, down two percent from last year. The 369 million layers consisted of 304 million layers producing table or market eggs, 61.2 layers producing broiler-hatching eggs, and 3.91 million producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of laying per day on January 1, 2025, averaged 78.6 eggs per 100 layers, one percent lower than January 1, 2024. Egg-type chicks hatched in December were down one percent while broiler-type chick hatching was up three percent from 2023. *********************************************************************************** Moffitt Returns to American Farmland Trust Former USDA Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt joined American Farmland Trust as Senior Fellow, where she’ll focus on enhancing rural America’s vitality. She’ll help support agricultural producers in building their farming operations for future success. Her portfolio will include work at the intersection of farming, ranching, and the communities in which they play a critical part in future-proofing economies and preserving a rural way of life. Moffitt joins AFT after serving as the USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, the first woman to ever hold that position. While there, she provided leadership to both the Agricultural Marketing Service and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. “We are so pleased to have someone of Jenny’s caliber on our team supporting the never more critical work of building resilience within America’s farm and ranches and the rural communities they are a part of,” says John Piotti (pee-AHT-tee), president and CEO of AFT. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Associates Board Elects New Officer The U.S. Wheat Associates Board of Directors elected new officers for the organization’s 2024-2025 fiscal year at their meeting on January 15 in Washington, D.C. Mike Carstensen of Almira, Washington, was newly elected as the organization’s next Secretary-Treasurer and will take office in July 2025. “As a farmer, I believe we have to engage in activities that propel our industry forward,” Carstensen said. “I know the success of our market development efforts is critical to the success and sustainability of any operation.” Carstensen also says he’s very familiar with the great work done by the U.S. Wheat Associates staff and says it’s an honor to support their efforts to help guide the organization in representing wheat farmers from across the country. At the July board meeting in Boise, Idaho, current Vice Chairman Jim Pellman of North Dakota will take the office of Chairman. Pellman has been farming since 1990.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 23, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including weekly ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange weekly crop conditions update at around 12 p.m. CST NASS Weekly and Monthly Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system is bringing scattered snow showers through the Great Lakes Thursday morning and will continue to spread them into the Northeast throughout the day. Colder air is briefly filling in behind the snow, which is causing some lake-effect as well. Cold air continues to be embedded across the Gulf and Southeast Coasts from snowfall earlier this week that is slowly melting.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 22, 2025 |
Trump Doesn’t Implement Tariffs Right Away President Donald Trump didn’t impose tariffs against Mexico and Canada right away as he previously stated. Instead, Farm Policy News says President Trump is thinking about possible 25 percent duties on imports from the USA’s North American neighbors by February 1 because of illegal immigrants and fentanyl crossing into the U.S. Trump did direct federal agencies to investigate persistent U.S. trade deficits, unfair trade practices, and alleged currency manipulation by other countries. Reporters did ask whether the White House would impose an across-the-board tariff on all imports, and the president said, “We may, but we aren’t ready for that right now.” He also held off on imposing day-one tariffs on Chinese goods, instead ordering his administration to investigate whether Beijing had lived up to the Phase One Trade Deal from his first term. In response, Canadian officials said that they would be ready to retaliate against potential U.S. tariffs. ********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Congratulate President Trump on Inauguration President Donald Trump was officially sworn in as the 47th president of the U.S., and ag groups congratulated him. “We know the new president is a staunch ally of the U.S. farmer and second to none when it comes to negotiation acumen,” says National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman, Jr. “We look forward to working with him to advance issues of importance to the nation’s corn growers. The National Milk Producers Federation is also eager to get to work on a number of challenging issues. “We’re ready to work with leaders from the White House and Congress to help America prosper and for its world-leading dairy industry to grow and thrive,” says Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the NMPF. Doud also called for swift confirmation of Brooke Rollins to become the next Agriculture Secretary, noting that many key issues await her, the administration, and the new Congress. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Asks EPA to Pause Cellulosic Waiver Proposal Clean Fuels Alliance America filed written comments on the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed Partial Waiver of 2024 Cellulosic Biofuel Volumes. Clean Fuels is asking the agency to pause the rulemaking process until the agency can provide a full accounting of available cellulosic RINs for 2024 and consider whether pending small refinery exemptions or other mechanisms provide relief to refiners. Also, the group encourages the EPA to address the significant underestimation of biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuel volumes for 2024 and 2025. “We cannot accurately evaluate EPA’s calculation of an inadequate supply of cellulosic RINs for 2024 without first knowing the number of RINs that might be returned to the market through small refinery exemptions,” Clean Fuels wrote. “We ask that EPA finalize a step-change in 2024 advanced RVOs to EPA’s own projected advanced RIN generation, which is currently expected to exceed the required volumes by at least 2.6 billion RINs.” *********************************************************************************** NIAA Selects Fourth Leadership Class The fourth class participating in the National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders has been selected. The group will convene for the first session in Washington, D.C., in March. The Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders furthers NIAA’s mission to foster collaboration throughout the industry. NIAA established the leadership program in 2021 to provide an opportunity for animal agriculture leaders to gain next-level leadership and professional development training. “It’s refreshing to see professionals from very diverse backgrounds, with different roles, from varying geographical areas come together to problem solve, discuss, and work together for the betterment of animal agriculture as a whole,” says Jessie Wadle, NIAA manager of education and the supervisor of the leadership program. The cohort attends five in-person meetings with additional monthly virtual working sessions to focus on four areas of development, including critical thinking, leadership development, connecting and relating skills, and operational excellence. *********************************************************************************** Gary Washington Named Acting Ag Secretary Long-time USDA Chief Information Officer Gary Washington was named the Acting Secretary of the USDA. Fed Scoop says while the newly inaugurated Trump administration is waiting for Senate confirmation of its initial nominations for Cabinet and Cabinet-level officials, one of the first actions by the White House on Monday was appointing temporary leaders in several departments. Washington has been the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s CIO for almost seven years and a government employee since 1997. Washington was also the CIO for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Washington spent five years in private industry as well as ten years as a Computer Operator and a Command Control Specialist in the U.S. Air Force. He will handle the administrative duties of the office while Brooke Rollins’ nomination moves through the Senate. Her confirmation hearing is scheduled for this Thursday before the Senate Ag Committee. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Applauds Reintroducing the Farm to Fly Act The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition’s Executive Director Alison Graab applauded the reintroduction of the Farm to Fly Act. “The Farm to Fly Act is a meaningful step forward in harnessing the full potential of American agriculture to advance sustainable aviation fuel,” she says. “By creating new markets for U.S. farmers, this legislation not only strengthens our nation’s energy dominance but also uplifts rural communities across the country.” Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, one of several sponsors, says, “Sustainable aviation fuel is a promising alternative fuel source that can provide new markets for farmers while increasing our domestic energy production and security,” he said. “This legislation would increase the accessibility of biofuels for commercial use and directly support rural America and its farmers.” The Act clarifies SAF eligibility in USDA Bio-Energy Programs to expand markets for American agricultural crops in aviation bioenergy. The bill has garnered support across the ag and energy sectors.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 22, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Leading Economic Indicators at 9 a.m. CST No other major reports scheduled; market will continue to monitor South American weather as well as trade relation news. Weather Cold air continues over the snow across the South all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico as well as across the eastern Great Lakes. Another clipper is moving down from Canada and bringing some light snow showers with it and will also bring in some colder air for a couple of days as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 21, 2025 |
Hundreds of Ag Groups Write Senators Backing USDA Secretary Nominee Rollins Last week, 427 national and state agricultural groups and agribusinesses sent a letter to leaders of the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee supporting Brooke Rollins' nomination as Agriculture Secretary and calling on the committee and entire Senate to "promptly confirm" her for the Cabinet post. The Senate Agriculture Committee has set Rollins confirmation hearing for Jan. 23. The groups noted they represent farmers, ranchers, growers, hunters, forest owners, conservationists, cooperatives, state departments of agriculture, renewable fuel producers and agribusinesses nationwide -- encompassing all aspects of American agriculture, food nutrition and rural America. A native of Glen Rose, Texas, Rollins is the founder and CEO of the America First Policy Institute and America First Works, a pair of organizations that have championed Trump's agenda. Rollins was also a member of President-elect Donald Trump's Economic Advisory Council in 2016. ******************************************************************************************** Trump Names USDA Undersecretary Nominees President-elect Donald Trump has announced a slate of undersecretary nominees for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Via social media, Trump announced that he will nominate Richard Fordyce as Agriculture undersecretary for farm production and conservation; Dudley Hoskins as undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs; Luke Lindberg as undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs; and Michael Boren as undersecretary for natural resources and environment. Fordyce is a fourth-generation soy, corn, and beef cattle farmer, who served as the administrator of the Farm Service Agency (FSA) during Trump's first term, and was formerly Missouri's director of Agriculture. During Trump's first term Lindberg served as chief of staff and chief strategy officer at the Export-Import Bank. He is currently the President & CEO of South Dakota Trade. Boren is a businessman, who has founded six companies, including Clearwater Analytics. Hoskins currently serves as counsel on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and previously spent four years at USDA during Trump's first term as the chief of staff for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, and senior advisor to the secretary. ******************************************************************************************* McDonald’s Abandons Commitment to DEI in Supply Chain McDonald’s is ending its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion within its supply chain and “retiring setting aspirational representation goals,” per a letter to employees and suppliers made public Jan. 6. Despite the change, McDonald’s said it met its U.S. goal of spending 25% of its supplier budget with diverse-owned companies three years ahead of schedule, the letter says. The company said it will continue to report demographic information about its board, employees and suppliers in an annual report, according to the letter, which was signed by several executives, including EVP and Global Chief Supply Chain Officer Marion Gross. McDonald’s is also abandoning its DEI initiatives across the rest of the company in favor of a focus on “inclusion,” following a “comprehensive” civil rights audit it completed last year, per the letter. The company said it weighed several factors in making the change, including shareholder proposals, the 2023 Supreme Court decision that struck down affirmative action, and decisions by other companies that have re-evaluated their own programs. ********************************************************************************************* Nevada Dairy Farm to Become Solar Facility A land option agreement has been brokered between Rockview Family Farms and Balanced Rock Power to convert the 2,000-acre dairy farm, Ponderosa Dairy, into a solar energy facility. BRP will have the option to acquire the land — with the option period estimated to be between two and five years, according to a news release from the parties. The dairy farm would relocate. Due to rising operational costs and declining revenue, Rockview decided to come together with BRP to transform the farm altogether. Ponderosa Dairy has been struggling financially since 2023 due to fuel costs to transport, inflation and when their milk operator, Meadow Gold, lowered the price paid to Ponderosa by almost 15 percent. As the process moves forward, we are committed to working with Rockview to support job retraining programs for former dairy employees and partnering with the community on the project’s development and robust water conservation efforts. ********************************************************************************************* Farms Retire Thousands of Acres in Water-Short Northeastern Colorado With the help of $30M in state and federal funding, Colorado has retired some 10,000 acres of irrigated farm lands, with another 7,000 acres contracted for dry up. Farm communities on the Eastern Plains, under the gun to deliver water to Kansas and Nebraska, are poised to permanently retire 17,000 acres of land, with the help of $30 million in state and federal funding. From Wray, to Yuma to Burlington, growers are being paid to permanently shut off irrigation wells linked to the Republican River to ensure the vital waterway can deliver enough water to neighbors to the east, as required under the Republican River Compact of 1943. As of this month, ranchers had already retired 10,000 acres under the program, and the rest will be set aside in coming months. According to Colorado State University, it is one of the largest dry-ups of irrigated agricultural land in the West. ********************************************************************************************* Oregon Housing Rules Could Lead to Worker Shortages Oregon farmers say new farmworker housing rules could lead to workforce shortages. Farmworker advocates say the rules don’t address all of their concerns, while farmers say they can’t afford the changes. Oregon is updating farmworker housing rules that some advocates have said are alarmingly outdated. The requirements come after years of negotiations and include sweeping changes, such as mandating kitchens. The current rules don’t require farmworker housing to have a kitchen — though Oregon OSHA officials say most of the state’s registered labor housing does have some sort of kitchen facility. Other changes require houses to have at least 50 square feet per bed in sleeping rooms with bunk beds; currently the rules allow for 40 square feet per bed. The changes were made over several meeting sessions with farmers, and farm worker groups and were meant to strengthen health and safety standards in farmworker housing, while also giving employers time to adjust to the changes and financial resources, according to Aaron Corvin, a spokesperson for Oregon OSHA.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 21, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST U.S. Bioenergy Statistics at 2 p.m. CST USDA Chickens and Eggs Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather Temperatures are cold enough to lend to widespread snow and mixed wintry precipitation across the Gulf of Mexico coast Tuesday into early Wednesday. Portions of southern Louisiana could see over six inches of snow by Tuesday evening. As this system advances east, southern Alabama and Georgia are also forecast to see a few inches of snow with freezing rain in the panhandle of Florida.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 17, 2025 |
U.S. Dairy Producers Okay FMMO Changes The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service announced a final rule amending the uniform pricing formulas applicable in all 11 Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The final rule will be published in the Federal Register on Friday, January 17 (today). The amendment changes included returning the base Class 1 skim milk price formula to the higher-of the advanced Class 3 or 4 skim milk prices. The Class 3 and 4 make allowances are now 25.2 cents for cheese, 22 cents for butter, 24 cents for nonfat dry milk, and 26 cents for dry whey, all on a per-pound basis. USDA also removed the 500-pound barrel cheddar cheese prices from the Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting Program Survey. The skim milk composition factors are updated to 3.3 percent true protein, 6.0 percent other solids, and 9.3 percent nonfat solids, with a six-month implementation delay. The rest of the new rule will be effective June 1, 2025. ********************************************************************************** Tax Cut Expiration Would Damage U.S. Agriculture The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will sunset at the end of 2025 if Congress doesn’t extend the legislation or make the measures permanent. Successful Farming says provisions scheduled to end include a pass-through deduction for business owners, lower individual income tax rates, expanded tax brackets, and a higher estate tax exemption threshold. Other provisions in the Act have already lapsed or begun phasing out ahead of the expiration. “If these policies expire, that could put as many as 5.9 million U.S. jobs, $540 billion of U.S. employee compensation, and $1.1 trillion of U.S. GDP at risk,” says a new analysis from the consultancy firm EY. While the manufacturing sector would lose the most jobs, the report also says that agriculture, forestry, and the fishing and hunting industries could lose a combined 50,000 jobs, leading to lost wages and benefits totaling $3 billion and reduced economic activity of $10 billion. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Hong Kong Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications for its agribusiness trade mission to Hong Kong, scheduled for May 12-16, 2025. Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in participating must apply by January 30. “This mission offers exporters a vital platform to build connections and gain insights essential for success in Asia,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitely. “it’s an opportunity to showcase the quality and reliability of U.S. agricultural products to a thriving market.” In 2023, Hong Kong ranked as the 17th-largest global market for U.S. agricultural products, importing $1.5 billion worth of goods. As a free port and gateway to broader markets in other countries, Hong Kong provides significant opportunities for U.S. exporters across many sectors, including poultry, beef, pork, seafood, fresh fruits, and others. During the trade mission, participants will engage in tailored business-to-business meetings with buyers from Hong Kong, attend market briefings, and take part in site visits. *********************************************************************************** John Deere Expands Self-Repair Options John Deere says it’s aiming at a long-standing issue that has been a major source of contention with equipment owners: the right to self-repair their equipment. In a release, the company says it’s made a “significant step forward in supporting the customers’ ability to maintain and repair their machines across the agricultural and construction industries.” The latest addition gives customers and independent repair technicians more ability to reprogram Deere’s electronic controllers. The company says it has a long-standing commitment to enhancing its customers’ ability to repair their equipment. “And consistent with that commitment, we’ve continued to deliver new and enhanced solutions designed to improve that experience,” says Denver Caldwell, vice president of aftermarket and customer service. “As our equipment has become more technologically advanced, so to have the repair tools needed to advance customer capabilities.” Caldwell also says this offering advances Deere’s goal of minimizing its customers’ unplanned downtime. *********************************************************************************** Veterinary Fellows Applications Open The need for skilled veterinarians to safeguard the nation’s food supply has never been more urgent. However, the U.S. is experiencing a critical shortage of veterinarians specializing in livestock and poultry, threatening public health, food safety, and the economic vitality of agricultural communities. To support the development of future veterinary researchers, the Foundation for Food & Agricultural Research and the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges established the FFAR Veterinary Student Fellowship in 2018. This year, the fellowship features several updates to expand its scope, eligibility, and impact. Veterinary research is critical to solving challenges affecting nutritional security, environmental sustainability, and public health. However, most fellowships available to veterinary students are limited to traditional biomedical research. The fellowship is open to domestic and international students currently enrolled in a DVM or VMD degree program. Students don’t need prior research experience, and matching funds are not required for this program. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Receive W.D. Farr Scholarships Conrad Schelkopf of Geneva, Nebraska, and Tyler Thomas of Baker City, Oregon, have each been awarded a $15,000 W.D. Farr Scholarship by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation. The annual scholarship program recognizes outstanding graduate students for their academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to the beef industry. The scholarship recipients will be recognized during CattleCon 2025, February 4-6 in San Antonio, Texas. Schelkopf got a bachelor’s degree in animal science at Colorado State University and is pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine at Kansas State University. Thomas earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Kansas State University. The scholarship was established by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation in 2007 and honors the successful career of W.D. Farr, a third-generation Colorado native, pioneer rancher, statesman, and banker known for his extraordinary vision. His dedication to improving agriculture resulted in significant changes in farming methods that have influenced farmers and ranchers throughout the nation.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 17, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing Starts and Permits at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Industrial Production at 8:15 a.m. CST Mato Grosso Institute of Agricultural Economics Weekly Soybean Harvest Update at 1 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather Scattered snow showers will drift through the Northern Plains and western Nebraska Friday. By Friday evening, scattered rain showers will overtake the Mississippi Valley and spread into the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys through Saturday morning. Rainfall amounts are not expected to be heavy; rather, up to 0.50 inch of rain is expected for these regions.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 16, 2025 |
USDA Publishes Rule on Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops The USDA announced the publication of an interim rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks. It establishes guidelines for quantifying, reporting, and verifying the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of biofuel feedstock commodity crops grown in the U.S. The rule covers three feedstocks, including soy, corn, and sorghum. It also covers climate-smart practices that could reduce GHG emissions or sequester carbon, including reduced till and no-till, cover cropping, and nutrient management practices like using nitrification inhibitors. The interim rule also allows for the adoption of CSA practices both individually and in combination. This means farmers would have the flexibility to adopt the CSA practices that make sense for their operation while still being able to produce feedstocks with reduced carbon intensities under the rule. USDA is requesting public comment on the interim rule to help inform future revisions or additions. Go to regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** Farm Action Applauds FTC Right to Repair Lawsuit Farm Action reacted to the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit against John Deere over the right to repair. The Commission alleges John Deere is illegally driving up costs by forcing farmers to repair their equipment at authorized dealers. Farm Action’s Chief Strategy Officer Joe Maxwell says they applaud the FTC for taking this bold action to bring justice to farmers who have been stripped of the right to repair their own equipment. “That robs them of time and money as a result,” Maxwell says. “By withholding software information to diagnose and repair equipment, manufacturers are forcing farmers to often face long wait times and sometimes drive hundreds of miles to find an authorized dealer.” The long drives or wait times jeopardize hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential yields. Farm Action has led a nationwide Right to Repair campaign demanding that farmers are given the right to repair their own equipment. *********************************************************************************** Groups React to Packers and Stockyard Act Revision American agriculture groups reacted to the final USDA poultry tournament rule under the Packers and Stockyards Act. “AFBF has long advocated for more stability for farmers who raise poultry under the tournament system,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We’ve long advocated for more stability in the sector and increased transparency in how farmers are paid.” The Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action is also pleased with the new rule. “We applaud USDA’s finalization of regulations like this that are long overdue,” says Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets. “We call on President Trump to keep these regulations intact.” The Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association said in a release that they applaud USDA for finalizing their third rule reform. With so much outside of the control of contract poultry growers, it makes common sense to not base so much of their compensation on the tournament system. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Publishes Corn Competitiveness Report The National Corn Growers Association published the 2025 Corn Competitiveness Report. It’s a roadmap for the Trump Administration and Congress to bolster the economic outlook for farmers and rural America. The report comes as corn growers are forecasted to face a third year of negative returns in 2025. “The U.S. is a corn-producing superpower, growing about one-third of the world’s corn and doing so more sustainably than anywhere else on Earth,” the report says. According to the report, the U.S. can “turbocharge” American competitiveness in several ways, including increasing global market access for U.S. corn, expanding the use of U.S. corn in ethanol, and strengthening farm risk management programs. The report provides specific examples of the ways how the U.S. can achieve these targets, including developing new foreign markets, passing legislation that will expand consumer access to higher ethanol blends, and extending the estate tax exemptions farmers depend on. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agriculture Dominated by Family Farms In 2023, roughly 86 percent of all farms were small family farms. A USDA report says these farms have a gross cash income below $350,000 and operate on 41 percent of all U.S. agricultural land. The family farms produced 17 percent of the total value of U.S. agricultural production. Large-scale family farms, those with gross cash income above $1 million, represented four percent of farms and accounted for 31 percent of agricultural land and 48 percent of the total value of agricultural production in 2023. Midsized family farms, with income between $350,000 and $999,999, represented six percent of farms and accounted for 18 percent of agricultural land and 18 percent of the total value in agricultural production. In total, family farms accounted for about 96 percent of total farms, 90 percent of agricultural land, and 83 percent of the total production value in 2023. The remaining four percent are non-family farms. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Leads Cage Free Egg Transition Compassion in World Farming U.S. has released its latest Egg Track Report, which highlights the evolving landscape of higher-welfare egg production in North America. While the U.S. continues to lead at about 40 percent of egg-laying hens now in cage-free systems, Canada trails behind, with over 81 percent still confined in cages. Compassion says these cages are small wire structures that barely allow hens to spread their wings or engage in natural behaviors like wing flapping, perching, or dustbathing. This disparity underscores both the progress made and the challenges that remain in the transition toward a cage-free future. “North America’s egg producers are at the forefront of transforming the global egg market,” says Julia Johnson, U.S. Head of Food Business at Compassion in World Farming. The organization says cage-free is gaining momentum as the U.S. has seen steady growth in cage-free systems that now cover 124.8 million laying hens.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 16, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Crop Update at around 12 p.m. CST ERS Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook -- Jan 2025 at 2 p.m. CST Weekly Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather Light snow showers will exit the eastern Midwest throughout the day, but a system will move through the Canadian Prairies, providing a band of moderate to heavy snow showers. By Friday, some leftover light snow showers from the Canadian Prairies system will graze the Northern Plains, putting down less than one inch of snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 15, 2025 |
USDA Finalizes Third New Packers and Stockyards Regulation Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the third installment in a series of regulatory reforms under the Packers and Stockyards Act. That, in combination with other updates, is intended to level the playing field for farmers raising chickens, turkeys, hogs, cattle, and sheep under contract or for sale to meat and poultry processing companies. The newest rule gives chicken farmers better insight into companies’ payment rates for their birds, will institute stability and fairness in what is commonly known as the “tournament system,” will provide farmers with key information on capital improvements the companies require farmers to make in order to keep or renew contracts and give farmers stronger leverage when companies don’t stick to the rules. “We’ve heard many stories of farmers who lost their life savings or went bankrupt because of an unfair system they entered into when they agreed to raise animals for a meat conglomerate,” Vilsack said. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Introduces the Pork Leadership Institute Class of 2025 The National Pork Producers Council and the National Pork Board are excited to announce the Class of 2025 for the Pork Leadership Institute. It’s a premier program dedicated to equipping pork producers with the knowledge and skills to lead the industry into the future. This year, 17 people from across the country were selected to join the program, and they represent a diverse group of leaders poised to drive innovation and advocacy within the pork sector. “As we step into 2025, ensuring the long-term success of America’s pork producers remains our top priority,” says Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO. “These individuals will serve as steadfast voices on the issues that matter most, including navigating legislative challenges to securing the freedom to operate.” The yearlong program is a comprehensive leadership development initiative featuring five intensive sessions that cover key areas of industry knowledge and advocacy. More information is available at nppc.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces 2025 Safety-Net Program Enrollment Periods The USDA announced the 2025 enrollment periods for key safety-net programs, including Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage, as well as Dairy Margin Coverage. Producers can submit applications to USDA’s Farm Service Agency for ARC and PLC for the 2025 crop year from January 21 to April 15. DMC applications for the 2025 coverage year can be submitted from January 29 to March 31. “Our safety-net programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers, so don’t delay enrollment,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA Administrator. “Even if you aren’t changing your program election for 2025, you still need to sign a contract to enroll.” He also says at 15 cents per hundredweight for $9.50 coverage, risk protection through Dairy Margin Coverage is a relatively inexpensive investment in a true sense of security and peace of mind. For more information, go to your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Foreign Ownership of U.S. Ag Land Increases Between 2022-2023 The latest report on foreign ownership of U.S. ag land shows that 45.85 million acres of U.S. farmland were held by foreign investors in 2023. That represents 3.61 percent of total privately-held agricultural land in the U.S. This marks a 1.58-million-acre, or 3.6 percent, increase from 2022 and a five-million-acre (12.2 percent) rise since the American Farm Bureau’s last analysis in 2021. Canadian investors own the largest portion of foreign-held U.S. ag land with 33.5 percent, or 15.35 million acres of the total and 1.21 percent of all U.S. ag land. Following Canada, investors from the Netherlands, Italy, the U.K., and Germany round out the top five in that category. By state, Texas has the largest quantity of foreign-held U.S. agricultural land at 5.7 million acres, making up 3.6 percent of the state’s 1.58 million acres of privately-held agricultural land. Maine has the second-largest quantity at 3.5 million acres. *********************************************************************************** SCN Continuing Spread Renews Focus on the Threat Researchers have been updating the map of known soybean cyst nematode distribution regularly since 2000, and with each update, the threat spreads. The latest update, spearheaded by Greg Tylka, a nematologist from Iowa State University, reveals 31 counties in ten states reporting SCN for the first time between 2020 and 2023. In Canada, ten rural municipalities in Quebec and three counties across Manitoba and Ontario reported SCN for the first time during that three-year span. In the U.S., SCN is in every county across Illinois and Iowa, the top two soybean-producing states. Just because an area doesn’t report any SCN doesn’t mean fields are free from infestation. “Fields may be infested for many years before the infestations are discovered,” Tylka added. The SCN Coalition encourages producers to develop a plan that includes testing their fields to know the numbers, rotating resistant varieties, rotating to non-host crops, and using a nematode-protectant seed treatment. *********************************************************************************** Corn Stocks Down While Soybean and Wheat Supplies Are Higher Corn stored in all positions on December 1, 2024, totaled 12.1 billion bushels, down one percent from the same time last year. Of the total, 7.66 billion bushels are stored on farms, down two percent from the previous year. Off-farm stocks are at 4.41 billion bushels, two percent higher than the prior year. Soybeans in all positions on December 1, 2024, totaled 3.1 billion bushels, three percent above December 1, 2023. On-farm stocks were at 1.54 billion bushels, up six percent. Off-farm stocks were 1.56 billion, one percent higher than the previous December. All wheat stored in all positions on December 1, 2024, was at 1.57 billion bushels, 10 percent above the previous year. On-farm stocks were at 467 million bushels, up 16 percent over December 2023. Off-farm stocks, at 1.1 billion bushels, were up eight percent from the previous year. All three commodities had higher disappearance levels than the prior year.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 15, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather It's an overall quiet day on Wednesday, though some lake-effect snow is still hanging on in the Great Lakes. A small system will move through southern Canada and bring more light snow to the Great Lakes Wednesday and especially Wednesday night. It will also bring in some warmer air for the next couple of days.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 14, 2025 |
Treasury Department Releases Partial 45Z Guidance The government released short-term guidance on accessing clean fuel tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. However, the announcement fell short of finalizing the program’s details. Farm Policy News says biofuel groups were hoping for more clarity on the tax credits for fuels that help combat climate change. The groups are hopeful that more complete guidance will provide a pathway for corn-based ethanol to expand its market as a sustainable aviation fuel feedstock. The Treasury Department says it provides further details on how to ensure fuels meet certain emissions-reductions criteria to access the subsidy and adds that a crucial climate model upon which the program relies will be available in the future. Reuters says the administration intends to release the program’s climate model this week, but it will not include adjustments for so-called climate-smart agricultural practices like no-till farming, which ethanol hoped it could use to meet the lifecycle emissions requirements. *********************************************************************************** Reaction to 45Z Tax Credit Guidance U.S. agriculture groups waiting for the Treasury Department’s guidance on accessing the 45Z Tax Credit had mixed reactions to the announcement last Friday. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the long overdue guidance is far from complete. “It still lacks critical details that are needed to help ensure that American biofuel producers and farmers can lead the world in clean fuel production,” she said. Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association says, “The credit must allow for the inclusion of efficient farming practices, recognition of additional feedstocks and ethanol production technologies, and the ability for producers to secure their own carbon intensity values.” The National Corn Growers Association says the announcement was a “missed opportunity for growers.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America says they look forward to working with members to evaluate the overdue guidance and forthcoming GREET model, which provides necessary carbon intensity scores for fuel producers. *********************************************************************************** 2024 Tractor and Combine Sales Close 2024 in a Slump According to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, sales of agricultural tractors and combines fell in the United States during December 2024 compared to the previous year. U.S. sales of agricultural tractors fell 11.3 percent, while combine sales fell 26.4 percent in December 2024 compared to December 2023. “December’s sales of ag tractors and combines follow patterns we saw throughout 2024, which reflects softness in the market,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “While the year has been marked by high interest rates and uncertainty throughout the overall ag economy, AEM is looking forward to the potential in 2025 and will continue to advocate for policies focused on positively impacting the industry.” Canada’s sales of ag tractors dropped 3.2 percent, while combines fell 37.3 percent in December when compared to the previous year. The biggest December drop was in 100-plus horsepower tractors, down 27 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Welcomes Line Speed Study Results The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is extending the New Swine Inspection System increased line speed trials through May 15, 2025. The National Pork Producers Council called it a “win for efficiency” in feeding a growing population and alleviating supply issues. “Pork producers appreciate USDA’s thoughtful and thorough approach to maintaining increased packing capacity, giving us more opportunities to safely and more efficiently deliver our products to consumers,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “As expected after more than three years of operating at increased line speeds, FSIS has confirmed that increased line speeds are not a leading factor in worker safety.” After completing a months-long study at six pork processing plants, line speeds were not the leading factor in worker musculoskeletal disorder risks. Without the increase in line speeds and the resulting decrease in packing capacity, some producers could have seen losses of $10 a head in early 2024. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for CattleCon 2025 While CattleCon 2025 is just around the corner, February 4-6 in San Antonio, Texas, it isn’t too late to register. Whether flying or driving, make plans to join thousands of cattlemen and women for the largest cattle industry event in the country. Among the schedule highlights, the Opening Session will include speaker Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, a decorated F-16 fighter pilot, professional golfer, philanthropist, and best-selling author. Rooney says he’s called to “inspire people to help people.” Wednesday’s schedule begins with celebrating the Beef Quality Assurance Award winners. The special general sessions will be impactful for those looking to transition their businesses to the next generation or new ownership. The final day starts with CattleFax conducting its U.S. Global Protein and Grain Outlook session. Throughout CattleCon, the 32nd annual Cattlemen’s College includes educational sessions with industry leaders tackling a number of innovative topics. Register in advance at convention.ncba.org or in person on-site. *********************************************************************************** Autonomous Equipment Use to Grow 12 Percent The autonomous harvester market size is expected to record a 12 percent annual growth rate between 2024 and 2032. Global Market Insights says the rise will be fueled by a surge in product launches and the melding of advanced technologies with farm management systems. Companies are producing new autonomous harvesting solutions, embedding state-of-the-art sensors, machine learning, and real-time data analytics. By seamlessly integrating with farm management systems, autonomous harvesters are enhancing crop health monitoring, optimizing harvest schedules, and streamlining resource management. The autonomous harvester industry is segmented by product, level of automation, technology, crop type, and region. The market share from the remote-controlled level of automation segment is expected to witness substantial growth through 2032. The surge is attributed to the rising demand for adaptable harvesters across diverse crops. In terms of crop type, the autonomous harvester market value from the fruits and vegetables segment will generate notable revenue from 2024-2032.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 14, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Fed Beige Book at 1 p.m. CST Weather A little disturbance and some lake-effect snow will continue in the Midwest on Tuesday. Most other areas of the country will be dry. It is cold for most areas, though some warmer air in the High Plains is ready to move eastward and replace it for a couple of days later this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 13, 2025 |
Markets Rally on Friday’s USDA Production Estimates USDA released the combined World Agricultural Supply and Demond Estimates report along with its final Crop Production estimates for 2024 on Friday, and the market was quick to react. Corn futures soared over 15 cents to the highest levels since mid-June and soybean futures jumped to two-month highs. USDA slashed corn yield estimates by 3.8 bushels per acre (bpa) to 179.3 bpa. That put analysts on their heels after offering an average trade guess of 182.7 bpa. That shoves total production estimates back below 15 billion bushels, with a new projection of 14.867 billion bushels. As with corn, USDA levied unexpected cuts to soybean yield and production estimates. The average yield eroded to 50.7 bpa, versus the average trade guess of 51.6 bpa. Production stumbled from 4.56 billion bushels in December down to 4.36 billion bushels. USDA’s new outlook for wheat noted “slightly larger supplies and domestic use, unchanged exports, and marginally higher ending stocks.” ****************************************************************************** Cal-Maine Reports Higher Profits from Lower Egg Supplies Cal-Maine Foods, the largest producer of eggs in the U.S., said strong consumer demand and supply constraints from the ongoing bird flu outbreak helped push up quarterly net sales by 82% over the previous year. Sales of conventional and specialty eggs both increased in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, according to Cal-Maine. Higher prices and lower feed costs also raised profits, the company said. Egg prices continue to break records with the ongoing spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Commercial producers have reported more deadly outbreaks that have forced them to cull flocks to contain the spread. Bird flu outbreaks and facility fires in 2024 resulted in the loss of 39.9 million commercial table egg layers in 12 states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Around 43% of losses occurred during the last two months of 2024, with one-third occurring in the peak demand period of December. ****************************************************************************** Trump Turning Attention to Panama Canal President-elect Donald Trump continues to have his eyes on Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal, as he reiterated in a press conference Tuesday. Asked if he would rule out the use of military force when looking at expansion, Trump said he couldn't commit to that. Instead, he emphasized the importance of the Panama Canal, saying, "Look, the Panama Canal is vital to our country, it's being operated by China, China. And we gave the Panama Canal to Panama, we didn't give it to China." Responding to Trump, Panamanian officials said the canal's sovereignty is non-negotiable. Overall, more than 70% of all cargo passing through the Panama Canal is coming from U.S. ports or heading to U.S. ports. At least $8.9 billion worth of agricultural products were shipped out of the Mississippi River ports through the canal in 2023. In a typical year, about 600 million bushels (mb) of U.S. soybeans and 450 mb of corn move through the Panama Canal. ****************************************************************************** 2025 Minnesota Beginning Farmer Tax Credit Applications Open The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Rural Finance Authority is now accepting applications for the 2025 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit. This annual program is available to landlords and asset owners who rent or sell farmland, equipment, livestock, and other agricultural assets to beginning farmers. $4 million in funding has been made available for the 2025 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit program. Credits are funded on a first-come, first-serve basis, and applying early in the year to beat the application deadlines is heavily encouraged. Both the asset owners and beginning farmers must submit applications with lease and/or sale documentation to qualify for funding and hold their place in line. Applications can be made before sales close, if needed. For more information on the tax credits and application materials visit the https://www.mda.state.mn.us/bftc. Questions may be directed to Jenny Heck at jenny.heck@state.mn.us or (651) 201-6316. ****************************************************************************** Will $10 Billion in Economic Payments Offset Farm Income Losses? Researchers are still projecting negative returns for grain producers even after assistance from Washington, highlighting the extent of the downturn in the agricultural industry. U.S. farmers and ranchers have access to $10 billion in economic aid as part of the farm bill extension passed at the end of 2024 to offset broad income declines. However, a new study from the University of Illinois says that the one-time payments likely won’t be enough to reverse deep profit losses for grain producers. While aid significantly reduces projected losses for 2024 many farmers will still see negative returns even after receiving the assistance, according to research estimates. Low commodity prices and high production costs have pressured farm margins and contributed to a widespread downturn in the agricultural economy. With Congress still divided on a farm bill, many producers demanded that an extension include economic aid to improve balance sheets and position themselves to secure loans. ****************************************************************************** Deere Lays Off 75 Workers at Iowa Tractor Plant John Deer has laid off 75 workers at a manufacturing facility in Iowa. The job cuts are some of the first in 2025 after the company reduced its workforce by the thousands last year in response to slowing demand. Deere & Co. is laying off dozens of workers at a production plant in Ottumwa, Iowa, after struggling with tractor and equipment sales in recent months. Approximately 75 workers, or 13% of the plant’s workforce, will lose their jobs effective February 7, according to a recent WARN notice. The Ottumwa, Iowa plant just reopened after closing for the month of December due to sluggish demand for hay and forage equipment, the Des Moines Register reported. To remain globally competitive, Deer must continue making workforce adjustments as needed to our manufacturing footprint, according to a Deere spokesperson.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 13, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Monthly U.S. Federal Budget at 1 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather Another burst of colder air has moved into the northern tier of the country on Monday behind a weekend system that produced scattered snow. Some showers are falling across the Gulf Coast while lake-effect snow continues for the Great Lakes. A little disturbance is also moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains with some light snow for Monday as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 10, 2025 |
New Contract Agreement Means no East or Gulf Coast Port Strike The International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance announced an agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement heads off the possibility of a port strike on the East and Gulf Coast ports. “We’re pleased with the tentative agreement, subject to ratification, which averts a work stoppage on January 15,” the two organizations said in a joint statement. “This agreement protects ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernizing the ports.” The two sides have agreed to continue operating under the current contract until the ILA can meet with its full Wage Scale Committee and schedule a ratification vote for its members. The U.S. Maritime Alliance membership also has to ratify the agreement. “The adoption of automation and technology was the most contentious issue between the two parties,” says Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. “We’re pleased with the agreement.” *********************************************************************************** Farmers May Shift Grain Acreage in 2025 Early indications are that U.S. farmers will increase planted grain acres this year despite continuing low prices. That’s according to a survey done by Farm Futures magazine. In the survey conducted in December, farmers in major corn-producing states seem swayed by an ongoing corn rally. However, more than half of the responding farmers plan no change in their crop mix. “In light of the corn market’s rally to six-month highs in late 2024 and early 2025, it makes sense that many farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and other top-producing states plan to ramp up their corn planting this year,” says Senior Editor Bruce Blythe. One factor that could change those plans is the soybean future prices. “A key question is whether soybean acres increase or decrease, given the outlook for heavy global supplies and weak prices,” Blythe said. Farmers also voiced continuing concerns about getting a 2025 Farm Bill in place. *********************************************************************************** Climate-Smart Alliance Enrolls 1,300 farms The Alliance to Advance Climate-Smart Agriculture at Virginia Tech enrolled over 1,300 farms representing more than 202,000 acres. It’s the first year of a landmark project that incentivizes agricultural producers in four states to adopt climate-smart practices. The project is a three-year national pilot program that aims to enroll 4,500 producers representing over 470,000 acres of farmland in Arkansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Virginia. At least 40 percent of the program’s participants are categorized by USDA as underserved farmers. Producers on farms of all sizes and commodities receive $100 an acre or animal unit to implement sustainable practices that can boost crop yields, build climate resistance, and protect soil, water, and air quality. “This program not only provides farmers with the financial support they need to transition to climate-smart practices but also sets a powerful precedent for what’s possible on a national scale,” says Tom Thompson, principal investigator on the project. *********************************************************************************** Disaster Assistance Application Deadline Approaching The USDA’s Farm Service Agency is reminding producers, including dairy producers impacted by H5N1, that the deadline to apply for assistance through the ELAP Program is January 30. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program funds are for losses due to specific adverse conditions that occurred in 2024. “The ELAP program provides an important financial safety net, helping our producers rebound from weather and disease impacts that are out of their control and not part of their operation’s ordinary risk profile,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA administrator. “These events threaten producers’ economic viability, so it’s important that USDA provide support.” ELAP provides relief to eligible producers to assist with losses that aren’t covered by other FSA disaster programs. Producers wanting to apply for ELAP assistance for calendar year 2024 should contact the FSA at their nearest USDA Service Center by January 30. To find a Service Center, visit farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** Groups Denounce Grizzly Bear Listing as Endangered Species The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council denounced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s revised grizzly bear listing. They also pushed back against the agency rejecting state petitions to delist grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act in the Northern Continental Divide and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems. “This proposed rule and rejected delisting petitions do nothing other than move the goalposts for species recovery and deny sound science,” says NCBA Director of Government Affairs Garrett Edmonds. “Combining multiple distinct ecosystems into one giant population segment for a solitary apex predator further muddies the waters of what a species recovery looks like and only makes it harder for recovered species to be delisted in the future.” He also says by creating this brand-new barrier to recovery, the Biden administration is further weaponizing the Endangered Species Act and aiming it at rural communities on their way out the door. *********************************************************************************** U.S. to Rebuild Bird Flu Vaccine Stockpile The USDA will begin rebuilding its bird flu vaccine stockpile to make it match the current strain of the virus running through commercial flocks and wild birds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the outbreak started in 2022 and has killed over 130 million birds, affecting commercial, backyard, and wild birds in all 50 states. In a press release, USDA says the U.S. had built poultry vaccine stocks after the last major outbreak in 2014-2015. Bird flu is also affecting U.S. dairy cattle herds and infected almost 70 people. Most of the exposed humans are farm workers who’ve been directly exposed to sick cattle or poultry. Egg and turkey farm groups have been calling for a vaccine, citing the severe economic toll it has taken on farmers after wiping out their flocks. In December, USDA reported infected dairy herds in California and Texas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 10, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets FAS Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Unemployment and wage data at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA January WASDE and Crop Production Reports at 11 a.m. CST USDA Quarterly Grain Stocks at 11 a.m. CST USDA Winter Wheat and Canola Seedings at 11 a.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A storm system is leaving the Plains and heading through the eastern half of the country on Friday. The greatest impact is in the Mid-South where heavy snow is falling along with some freezing rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 9, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets NASS Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Note that agricultural futures will close at 12:15 p.m. CST Thursday in recognition of the National Day of Mourning for President Carter Weather The long-awaited storm system for this week is finally moving out into the Southern Plains on Thursday morning with mixed precipitation spreading through Texas and into Oklahoma. This will continue to build throughout the day, being heavy along the Red River into Arkansas. A mix of rain, freezing rain, and heavy snow are in the forecast here. The storm will continue with its largest impact through the Mid-South for Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 9, 2025 |
Impact of Economic Assistance Payments The American Relief Act of 2025 provides $31 billion in ad hoc disaster assistance for farmers. Farmdoc Daily says $20.78 billion will help farmers who suffered natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The USDA hasn’t announced how the aid will be distributed. The ARA also had another $10 billion in economic assistance payments that the Farm Service Agency will distribute early this year. Many farmers and lenders welcome the assistance, which can make planning and loan renewal easier for the upcoming growing season. But Farmdoc points out there will be unintended consequences from federal aid. The aid will likely slow the cost adjustments that need to occur given the current low commodity price levels. The assistance may also make landowners less inclined to lower their cash rents. Also, input suppliers may see reduced pressures to lower the cost of inputs. Farmdoc’s 2025 projections continue to show low returns this year. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Causes First Human Death A 65-year-old with underlying medical conditions has succumbed to avian influenza, the first human death from bird flu in the United States. Food Safety News says the patient was exposed to non-commercial backyard flocks and wild birds. Bird flu outbreaks have been reported in multiple states since April 2024 and mainly caused mild illnesses among some patients. The Centers for Disease Control says there have been 66 human cases of bird flu in the U.S., with most being mild. H5N1 is widespread in birds worldwide, causing outbreaks in U.S. poultry and dairy cows. While the current public health risk is still low, the CDC is overseeing the situation and working with states to monitor people with animal exposure. The CDC is also using its flu surveillance systems to monitor for H5N1 activity in people. Bird flu infections in humans are usually rare and don’t typically spread from person to person. *********************************************************************************** Edge Dairy Cooperative Shares Legislative Priorities Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative announced its priorities for the next congressional session. “At Edge, we constantly strive to stay on the forefront of issues impacting our farmer members,” says Karen Gefvert, director of government affairs. “We strategically outlined our policy initiatives for 2025 to focus on the critical needs of dairy farmers across the Midwest.” The dairy industry, as a whole, is suffering from a lack of available labor, and Edge says a rural workforce for rural prosperity is one of the top priorities this year. They’ll also be busy advocating for a new farm bill, which contains programs that can help farmers improve their ability to earn a living. The Co-op also says the Upper Midwest is a powerhouse for cheese production, so ensuring opportunities for dairy through existing, expanding, or emerging markets is essential to healthy growth. Edge also stands with its farmers in their commitment to sustainability. *********************************************************************************** Kansas and Oklahoma Winter Wheat Conditions Decline Kansas, the top U.S. winter-wheat-producing state, saw condition ratings for its crop decline during December, even as dry conditions subsided in parts of the state. The USDA rated 47 percent of the Kansas winter wheat crop in good-to-excellent condition on January 5, down from 55 percent from last November. Wheat ratings also dropped in December in Nebraska, Oklahoma, and South Dakota but improved in Montana and Colorado. As of December 31, about 25 percent of the winter wheat crop nationally was in an area experiencing drought. Farmers in the Plains states grow hard red winter wheat, the largest U.S. wheat class, which is milled into flour for bread. Ratings declined in Illinois and Ohio, where farmers grow soft red winter wheat used to make cookies and snack foods. The USDA rated 69 percent of the Illinois crop as good-to-excellent on January 5, down from 80 percent in November. *********************************************************************************** NCBA and PLC Protest Antiquities Act Use The Public Land Council condemned the Biden administration’s irresponsible use of the Antiquities Act of 1906 to create two brand-new national monuments in California. “There are just days left in the Biden administration, and once again, the Antiquities Act is being recklessly applied to almost one million acres to create tremendous uncertainty for rural communities that rely on responsible resource management,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the Public Lands Council. “The record is clear as monument designations at the eleventh hour jeopardize rangeland health, threaten local economic stability, and unnecessarily make these areas political pawns during a transition period.” She also says the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council strongly oppose this declaration and will work with the Trump Administration to limit abuses like this. House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman (R-AR) slammed the new monuments and vowed to roll back the designations. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants Fund Urban Ag and Innovative Production The USDA is providing a total of $14.4 million in grants and technical assistance through two separately funded projects to support urban agriculture and innovative production. The Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is making $2.5 million available in grants, while the Natural Resources Conservation Service is providing $11.9 million. “This grant program continues growing in popularity, and we look forward to partnering with more communities nationwide to strengthen local food systems and increase access to healthy foods,” says Louis Aspey, Acting Chief of the NRCS. “We’re also excited for this opportunity to add experienced Urban Agriculture Conservation Extension Educators to enhance our customer service through partnership with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. NIFA (NEE-fah) issued a release saying the agency is looking forward to partnering with NRCS and land-grant universities to increase the footprint of Cooperative Extension in dedicated Urban Service Center sites across the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 8, 2025 |
Farmer Sentiment Drifts Lower in December Farmer sentiment moved lower in December as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped nine points to 136. The decline was driven by producers’ weaker perspective on current conditions in U.S. agriculture and their farms, with the Index of Current Conditions falling 13 points to 100. Although it did decline, it was still 24 points above its low in September and five points higher than in October. The Index of Future Expectations also fell eight points to 153, remaining 59 points above its September low and 29 points higher than in October. While sentiment did drop, much of the post-election optimism about future conditions is still holding strong. Producers’ optimism about the future seems to stem largely from expectations for a more favorable policy environment during the next few years. After a 13-point increase in November, the Farm Capital Investment index dropped seven points to a reading of 48. *********************************************************************************** Web-Based App Will Optimize Soil Sampling The Agricultural Research Service, the University of Nebraska, and the ARS’s Partnership for Data Innovations have launched a new web-based application involving soil sampling. The application, called the Soil Sample Panning Organizer Tool, or SSPOT, will facilitate digital soil mapping and optimize soil sampling. Effective soil management relies on understanding the various factors that drive soil productivity, including pH levels, nutrient variability, and organic soil carbon. Soil sampling has emerged as a valuable tool in advancing precision farming, particularly in today’s changing climate and the growing need to monitor the carbon footprint in agriculture. Land managers and researchers rely on routine soil sampling to monitor soil variability and determine the best practices to increase production while maintaining sustainability. SSPOT is a user-friendly tool with integrated algorithms to help users determine the optimal placement of samples needed to comprehensively understand soil activity in various soil types over time. For more information, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for 1890 National Scholars Program The USDA is accepting applications for its 1890 National Scholars Program. The program’s goal is to encourage students in 1890 land-grant universities to pursue career paths in food, agriculture, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The application deadline is March 1, 2025. Young people around the country are invited to complete and submit their applications online through an e-application. Administered through USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is available to eligible high school seniors entering their freshman year of college as well as rising college sophomores and juniors. “The program has been an effective tool to help USDA recruit and retain highly qualified students into careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields,” says USDA’s Lisa Ramirez. The program awarded 94 scholarships in the 2024 cohort of 18 scholars. For more information, go to the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn and Soybean Inspections Fall USDA data says inspections of corn and beans for export declined week to week while wheat assessments improved. The agency says corn inspections in the seven days that ended on January 2 fell to 847,463 metric tons from 907,565 tons a week earlier. That’s also down from 1.09 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for offshore delivery dropped to 1.28 million tons from 1.64 million during the previous week. That total was still up from the 1.04 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat inspections improved week to week to 412,342 tons from 339,101 tons. USDA says that’s still down from the 501,910 tons assessed during the same week in 2024. Since the marketing year began on September 1, the agency has inspected 16.2 million tons of corn for export, a higher number than at the same point in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Trump Won’t Narrow Tariff Plans A recent Washington Post report said President-elect Trump’s aides are considering narrowing his tariff plans so they would only apply to limited specific critical imports. However, Farm Policy News says Trump denied that would happen. In Trump’s words in a Truth Social post, he says, “The story which quoted so-called anonymous sources which don’t exist, incorrectly states my tariff policy will be pared back, and that is wrong,” he said. If it would come to fruition, that plan would mark a significant narrowing of the universal tariffs of 10 to 20 percent that Trump proposed during his campaign, a move which economists expect to drive up consumer prices and distort global trade patterns. On the campaign trail, Trump promised to impose a 60 percent tariff on Chinese goods and to phase out imports of essential goods from China over four years, and a 25 percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. *********************************************************************************** South American Crops Facing Weather Challenges Production estimates reached record levels for Brazil and Argentina’s winter soybean crops ahead of the 2024-2025 planting season. A USDA report predicted 169 million metric tons of soybeans in Brazil, a 10.4 percent increase from the previous marketing year. Argentina’s predicted output was 52 million metric tons, a jump of 7.86 percentage points from the 2023-2024 forecast. But, since that forecast came out December 10, each country’s crops have been clouded by shifting weather. Dry conditions in northern Argentina lasted throughout December, and maps are showing the area has received between 50-80 percent of its normal rainfall. In Brazil, weather has been drier than normal during the early planting season. Successful Farming says December saw much of southern Brazil nearing 80 percent of its average rainfall. Rainfall the country saw in the final two weeks of 2024 is expected to continue through January, which coincides with Brazil’s typical wetter season.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 8, 2025 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A front is moving through the Canadian Prairies into the Northern Plains on Wednesday, bringing in some warmer air and scattered precipitation. This will be an important feature as it will connect with a trough over northwestern Mexico for Thursday and produce a big winter storm across the South to end the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 7, 2025 |
Limited Supply and Strong Demand in Farmland Market The Farmers National Company says there are more motivated land buyers in today’s market than there are willing sellers. Land values have remained quite stable in the Midwest despite the pressure from lower net farm income, declining commodity markets, higher interest rates, and increased input costs. “There are many factors for buyer motivation, but much of it can be explained by mindset translating to demand,” says Paul Schadegg, senior vice president of real estate operations at Farmers National. “Farm operators are still the primary buyers of ag land, and their mindset revolves around reinvesting in their farm, expanding operations, and utilizing today’s farm equipment fully.” The Land location also plays a part in decision-making as it often hasn’t changed hands for generations, and once sold, “It may not be sold again,” he added. Across the industry, land listings are down, on average, by 25 percent from the active market between 2020-2023. *********************************************************************************** Specialty Crop Marketing Assistance Deadline Extended The USDA reminds specialty crop producers to apply for assistance for marketing and food safety certification expenses. The Farm Service Agency is providing an additional $650 million in funding for the new Market Assistance for Specialty Crops Program and extending the MASC application deadline to this Friday, January 10. Meanwhile, FSA also reminds specialty crop producers of the January 31, 2025, deadline to apply for the Food Safety Certification and Specialty Crops Program for 2024 expenses. With a total of $2.65 billion available, MASC helps specialty crop producers expand markets and manage higher costs. FSA is also increasing the MASC payment limit from $125,000 to $900,000. “Specialty crop producers should act quickly to make an appointment to apply for both marketing and food safety certification assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Specialty crop producers have been impacted by higher marketing and handling costs due to the perishability of their products.” *********************************************************************************** The Beagle Brigade Act Signed into Law The National Pork Producers Council commended President Biden for signing the Beagle Brigade Act into law. It provides statutory authority and reliable funding to the National Detector Dog Training Center. “Pork producers employ many biosecurity measures to keep foreign animal diseases out of their herds,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President. “As pork producers, we’re grateful this Beagle Brigade Act will continue to keep our food supply more safe and secure for everyone.” The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trains beagles and other dogs at U.S. ports of entry to spot contraband fruits, vegetables, and meat products in international passenger baggage, mailed packages, and vehicles entering the United States. The Beagle Brigade agriculture canine teams bolster national security by performing critically important inspections at ports of entry. “Further away at our nation’s ports, the Beagle Brigade helps ensure that foreign animal diseases travel past our borders,” Stevermer adds. *********************************************************************************** Updated BQA National Manual Now Available The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association announced the release of its updated Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) National Manual, which serves as a resource for science-based cattle production information and is free to all. “BQA empowers beef producers to maximize their potential to make the most efficient and responsible use of natural resources for effectively producing the world’s most nutritious and flavorful sources of protein,” says Dr. Clay Mathis of Texas A&M University and the BQA Advisory Group Chair. “This manual helps drive the improvement process across the supply chain through adherence to best management practices.” The publication’s goal is to provide technical information to help producers raise high-quality cattle resulting in the wholesome beef that consumers demand. It was developed to set production standards for beef quality and safety that are appropriate to an operation and that producers can realistically meet or exceed. For more information, go to bqa.org. *********************************************************************************** Federal Court Ends Roundup Litigation in Australia The Federal Court of Australia brought an end to the country’s last Roundup case, closing out all pending litigation there. The Court granted the plaintiff’s request to discontinue the Fenton class action against Monsanto involving allegations related to Roundup. The action followed Bayer’s earlier victory in the McNickle case in the same Court. McNickle was the first Roundup final judgment outside of the U.S. on the question of whether glyphosate in Roundup causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). The Court issued a 322-page ruling finding that the weight of the scientific evidence does not support a link between glyphosate and NHL. Bayer says, “This is an outcome consistent with the worldwide regulatory and scientific assessments, including from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority concluding that glyphosate is not carcinogenic.” In the U.S., Bayer has a winning record, getting favorable outcomes in 15 of the last 22 trials. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Welcome New Congress and Leadership The National Corn Growers Association gathered its leadership on Capitol Hill to welcome members of the new Congress as they were sworn into office. “We’re here to congratulate our friends and allies who were re-elected to Congress and introduce ourselves to those being sworn in for the first time,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman, Jr., who was in attendance. “We look forward to continuing our work with members on both sides of the aisle as we advocate for legislation that’s important to corn growers.” The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association congratulated Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) for his successful reelection campaign in the 119th Congress. Speaker Johnson has always been a strong supporter of U.S. cattle producers, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in the new Congress,” says Ethan Lane, vice president of government affairs at NCBA. “There’s a lot of work to do this year.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 7, 2025 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Job Openings at 9 a.m. CST Weather Cold air has settled in east of the Rockies Tuesday morning, especially over the fresh snowpack that occurred from the weekend storm. Another storm system is dropping south through the Intermountain West, producing some moderate snow in the High Plains. This system will become much more potent for southern areas later this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 6, 2025 |
German Election Frontrunner Wants Trade with U.S. Friedrich (FREED-rick) Merz, a German conservative leader, is considered the frontrunner to become the country’s next chancellor. He wants the European Union to make another attempt at a free trade deal once Donald Trump is back in the Oval Office. “We need a positive agenda with the U.S., which would benefit both American and European consumers,” said Merz. “A new European-American joint free trade initiative could halt a dangerous spiral of tariffs.” The Financial Times says it’s not clear what kind of reaction he’ll get from Washington. Trump halted negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, once a planned trade agreement between the EU and the U.S. Trump made the decision soon after taking office and imposed tariffs on European imports. In a sign of potential disagreements in the months ahead, President-elect Trump warned that the U.S. would impose tariffs on EU goods unless it bought more American oil and gas. *********************************************************************************** Scorecard on Delivering Broadband to Rural Areas The NCTA, or the Rural Broadband Association, released its “2024 Broadband-Internet Availability Survey Report.” The group says it capped off a year in which NCTA members made remarkable strides in delivering on the promise of robust and reliable high-speed connectivity in the most rural parts of the U.S. Despite operating in rural areas where the average density is less than seven locations per mile, approximately 89 percent of respondents’ customers, on-average, can receive downstream speeds greater than or equal to 100 Mbps, up from 84 percent in 2023. More than 76 percent of customers on average have access to Gigabit downstream speeds, an increase from 67 percent in 2023. Upload speeds continue to increase as well. Over 67 percent of respondents’ customers, on average, subscribe to 100 Mbps downstream broadband or better, up from just under 60 percent in the 2023 survey. Deployment costs remain the largest expansion barrier. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Grows for Fourth Consecutive Week The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production averaged 1.111 million barrels a day during the week ending on December 27. This was the fourth consecutive week-over-week increase, up from 1.107 million barrels a day during the prior week. In the Midwest, production rose to an average of 1.055 million barrels a day from 1.045 million during the previous week. The EIA says West Coast Production increased to 10,000 barrels a day, up from 9,000 barrels the week before. East Coast output was unchanged week over week at 11,000 barrels a day, on average. Rocky Mountain Production declined from 14,000 to 11,000 barrels a day. The government report also says Gulf Coast production fell from an average of 28,000 barrels a day to 22,000 barrels. Ethanol inventories increased to 23.639 million barrels from 23.074 million a week earlier. That’s the highest level for ethanol stocks since September 13. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Wants 2025 to Be Best Year Yet for Education The American Lamb Board’s 2025 program includes workshops and summits aimed at equipping sheep producers with the necessary tools and resources to profitably grow their operations. They’re encouraging producers to begin planning their year by discovering more about several upcoming opportunities, including six targeted grazing workshops on the 2025 schedule. The rapid development of utility-scale solar farms across the country has stimulated a significant need for sheep grazing as a means of vegetation management. There are increasing opportunities for sheep grazing contracts in wildfire-prone areas and vineyards. Sheep grazing helps eliminate dried plants that otherwise could become wildfire fuel, and grazing in vineyards and other regions helps to clear weeds while reducing or eliminating herbicide use. The ALB Targeted Grazing Workshops provide a unique chance to learn about these paid grazing contracts, which offer significant potential for expanding the sheep flock and enhancing the availability and price competitiveness of American Lamb. *********************************************************************************** China Approves More GM Crops to Boost Food Security China approved five gene-edited crop varieties and 12 types of genetically modified soybeans, corn, and cotton. Reuters says the expanded approvals are intended to boost high-yielding crops, reduce the need for imports, and ensure Chinese food security. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs awarded safety certificates to the 17 crop varieties, according to a document on its website. The approved gene-edited crops include two soybean varieties, and one each of wheat, corn, and rice. China mostly imports GM crops like corn and soybeans for animal feed, while cultivating non-GM varieties for food consumption. Many Chinese consumers remain concerned about the safety of GM food crops. A ministry document says the safety certificates for the newly approved varieties are valid for five years, starting from December 25, 2024. China has also approved importing an insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant GM soybean variety from the German firm BASF exclusively as a processing material, the ministry added. *********************************************************************************** Summer 2025 Internship Opportunities Now Available The Texas & Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, the largest and oldest livestock association in the Southwest U.S., announced applications are now open for the summer 2025 internship programs. Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association internship programs provide one-of-a-kind opportunities for students to network with stakeholders throughout the beef industry and gain valuable experience working alongside Association staff and leadership. All experiences are paid and offer a unique platform for students to actively engage in and contribute to association happenings. The summer 2025 opportunities include a semester-long TSCRA Internship in Fort Worth, which will offer a variety of opportunities in administration, communications, education, events, membership, and more. The TSCRA Government Relations Internship is in Austin and focuses on federal and state policy-related issues, including private property rights, natural resources, and others. The application deadline is February 3. More information is available on each opportunity at the Texas & Southwest Cattle Raisers website.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 6, 2025 |
Monday Watch List Markets Grain Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST NASS Dairy Products at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Data at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A system that moved through the middle of the country over the weekend continues eastward on Monday. Heavy snow and freezing rain continue across the Ohio Valley into the Mid-Atlantic. The system is pulling down some very cold air deep into the country that continues for most of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 3, 2025 |
East and Gulf Coast Port Strike Seems More Likely Shippers want to know if there will be a strike because there’s less than a month until the International Longshoremen Association’s contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance is set to expire. Supply Chain Dive says a major development in the prolonged negotiations occurred when President-elect Trump voiced his support for the ILA’s stance against automation at ports following a meeting with the union. Farm Policy news says the situation points in the direction of another strike. One shipping giant is already urging its customers to pick up their laden containers and return the empty ones at the U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports before January 15 to mitigate potential disruptions at the terminals on account of the strike. Joe Schuele (SHEE-lee) of the U.S. Meat Export Federation says ports and terminal operators are likely to stop accepting refrigerated cargo several days before the strike date, so shippers should make adjustments now. *********************************************************************************** List of State Crop Assistance Payments In addition to a farm bill extension through September 30, the American Relief Act of 2025, recently passed by Congress, contains $9.8 billion in market relief payments for 20 covered crops. This economic assistance is intended to offset part of the economic loss producers are facing following a decline in crop prices and production costs remaining high. Analysis from the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute says the top ten states were based on estimated payments for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, sorghum, rice, barley, oats, and peanuts, shows Texas at #1 with $963 million, primarily because it’s the largest U.S. cotton producer. Iowa is next with $846 million because of strong support for corn and soybean farmers. Illinois is next at $790 million, followed by Kansas at $787 million and Nebraska at $625 million, rounded out the top five. Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Indiana, and Missouri finish out the top ten. *********************************************************************************** Argentina Exchange Cuts Soybean Planting Estimates, Raises Corn Argentina’s Buenos Aires Grains Exchange raised its corn planting estimate while trimming the pegged soybean areas for the 2024-2025 season. The corn crop is now seen covering over 16,308,000 acres, up from a prior estimate of more than 15,567,000 acres. The Exchange says the new forecast was a correction of the previous one. The soybean planting area is now seen at over 45,460,000 acres, a reduction of 494,200 acres from the previous estimate. Farmers are sowing less on lower soybean prices, and many are planting alternatives. Soybean and corn compete for the most acres in Argentina, one of the world’s top corn exporters and the number one exporter of soy byproducts to international markets. Argentina’s farmers have sown 85 percent of their soybean acres and 81 percent of the corn crop. The report also says farmers have harvested 89 percent of Argentina’s expected wheat crop. *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Food Safety Advisory Committee The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods. This advisory committee is charged with providing impartial scientific advice and recommendations to the USDA and other government agencies on microbiological and public health issues relating to the safety of the U.S. food supply. USDA expects to appoint 30 committee members in 2025, whose work will include reviewing FSIS’ regulatory approach to Listeria. “For the past 36 years, experts serving on the National Advisory Committee have played a critical role in fortifying our food safety standards and ensuring they rely on the latest science,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our approach to food safety must continually evolve, and those serving on this committee will help us strengthen our regulatory framework and programs that best safeguard the health and well-being of American families.” More information is available at fsis.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Carbon Pipeline Discussion Continue in SD The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission scheduled a series of six public input meetings in January about Summit Carbon Solutions’ application for a permit to construct a carbon dioxide pipeline. The meetings are scheduled for January 15-17 at various locations in eastern South Dakota near the proposed pipeline route. Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions plans a 25-mile, $9 billion pipeline to capture carbon dioxide from 57 ethanol plants across five states, including eastern South Dakota, and transport it to North Dakota for underground storage. The project would capitalize on federal tax credits incentivizing the prevention of heat-trapping carbon emissions. “The purpose of the public input meetings will be to hear public comments regarding the application and the project,” the commissioners said in a written order. “At the meetings, Summit will present a brief description of the project, after which interested people may appear and present their views, comments, and questions.” *********************************************************************************** USGC Part of Trade Mission to Morocco U.S. Grains Council staff traveled to Casablanca, Morocco, in December as a part of the USDA trade mission to the country. The Foreign Agricultural Service led the mission, which included 50 agribusinesses and 14 state departments of agriculture and farm organizations on a trade mission to highlight the continued trade partnership between the U.S. and Morocco. The USGC remarks to other attendees called Africa the future, with its population expected to reach nearly 2.5 billion by 2050, and it holds considerable long-term growth potential for feed and meat demand, which means more market share for U.S. agricultural products. Discussions with the USDA delegation and cooperators centered on the benefits of the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement and ways to build on its success in expanding U.S. exports to Morocco and neighboring West African countries. The Council will continue promoting U.S. ag by nurturing the growth of aquaculture, beef, poultry, and other Moroccan operations.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 3, 2025 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST ISM Manufacturing Index at 9 a.m. CST EIA Natural Gas Report (pertinent to ethanol margin/production) at 9:30 a.m. CST Fed Balance Sheet at 3:30 p.m. CST *Note CFTC Commitment of Traders data is delayed until Monday, Jan 6 due to the New Year Holiday* Weather A major storm system is moving into the Pacific Northwest on Friday and will be watched for heavy snow and freezing rain as it moves through the country's midsection for the weekend. Ahead of it, lake-effect snows continue off the Great Lakes.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 2, 2025 |
U.S. and Global Ag Economies Uncertain About 2025 The prospect of new tariff disputes when Donald Trump returns to the White House has the global economy in an uncertain position in early 2025. Farm Policy News says ongoing geopolitical tensions and continuing climate challenges will significantly impact agricultural trade and producer profitability during the year. The global economic landscape in 2024 was shaped by falling inflation and moderate expansion. However, a Rabobank market researcher says the implementation of U.S. tariffs would run the risk of fragmenting global trade and financial flows that could particularly hit developing nations with high dollar-debt exposure hard. Meantime, the outlook for the U.S. rural economy is also uncertain. The outcome of the 2024 election cycle promises to bring a significant change to the federal government’s approach to everything, including international trade, immigration, energy exploration, and rural economic development. The high level of policy uncertainty is adding to the headwinds rural America already faces. *********************************************************************************** Ten Things That May Affect Ag in 2025 The majority of agricultural economists in the latest Monthly Monitor say U.S. ag ended 2024 in a recession. Farm Journal’s AgWeb.com says 56 percent of ag economists responded “yes” to the question of a recession. The newest Monthly Monitor asked economists what they’ll be watching for in the new year. One of the biggest is the potential of a prospective tariff war, which they say is “being downplayed despite published research measuring the expected damage range.” They’re also looking at farmer attitudes toward non-traditional land uses, including CRP, solar, and other forms that help boost their incomes. There is worry about the Brazilian real (ree-ALL), which is depreciating and could lead to more U.S. competition. Also, in 2025, there’s a chance that cash rent prices may stay constant despite a downturn in crop prices. Farm incomes vary greatly by region, and the economists say Southern farmers are really struggling. *********************************************************************************** More Canadians Struggle with Food Insecurity Canada’s recent Food Price Report 2025 forecasts a rise in food prices between three and five percent, pushing the average family of four’s annual food expenditure to $16,833.67. That’s an increase of $800 from last year. Though 2024 saw food prices grow more slowly than expected, affordability remains a major concern for Canadians as inflation continues to erode household budgets. Despite easing inflation in 2024, food insecurity continues to affect millions of Canadians. In 2023, Statistics Canada reported that 23 percent of households in its ten provinces were food insecure. That impacted 8.7 million people, including 2.1 million children. Those figures are significantly higher in Nova Scotia at 29 percent and Prince Edward Island at 29 percent. Those areas have the highest food insecurity in the country. Canada’s food banks saw record demand in 2023, with visits passing two million. That’s an increase of 90 percent compared to 2019. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Elects New Chairman One new board member was appointed by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and was sworn in, while three other producers began their second terms after reappointment by Vilsack. The swearing-in took place during the United Sorghum Checkoff Program’s annual December meeting. The board also elected Ethan Miller of Columbia, Missouri, as the 2025 chairman. “I’m honored to take on the role of Chairman and continue driving innovation and opportunities for sorghum producers,” Miller said. “Our industry’s resilience and adaptability are key to unlocking sorghum’s potential, and I look forward to working alongside this exceptional team to advance our mission.” Norma Ritz Johnson, UNSC Executive Director, says the organization continues to thrive because of the dedication of its producers and leaders who work tirelessly to support the sorghum industry. “This Board represents a wealth of production experience and forward-thinking vision that will help us navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Early 2025 Could Be Bitterly Cold A strengthening storm is expected to bring snow, ice, and possibly severe thunderstorms to parts of the central and eastern U.S. as it slides across the country this weekend into early next week. AccuWeather expert forecasters say several Arctic blasts will bring waves of bitterly cold air to much of the eastern half of the nation starting this weekend. The system could bring some of the lowest January temperatures in over ten years to some places. “We’re going to be dealing with the coldest air of the season and multiple days of sub-zero temperatures from the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest into the Tennessee Valley,” says Chief Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. Lake-effect snow is forecast to increase as progressively colder air moves across the Great Lakes. Ice cover on the Great Lakes is well below historical averages, allowing the cold air blowing across the relatively warmer waters to create lake-effect snow. *********************************************************************************** EU Deforestation Rule Delayed by a Year The European Parliament voted to delay implementation of a deforestation regulation for a year, providing a reprieve for U.S. cattlemen. The rule will require imports of beef and other goods to include documentation showing they did not come from areas impacted by deforestation. In the case of beef, that includes geolocation data of where the cattle were raised. The new regulation had been scheduled to take effect on December 30. Erin Borror, vice president of economic analysis with the U.S. Meat Export Federation, says deforestation is not a concern for U.S. beef, yet America’s producers are faced with burdensome and unnecessary paperwork, even though the EU systems are still not ready for implementation. The one-year delay offers limited time to not only iron out systems for the implementation, but to also push for key changes to the rule, including a “no-risk” designation for trading partners where forests are not cleared for production.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 2, 2025 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Initial jobless claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 10 a.m. CST USDA Fats and Oils and Grain Crush report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A small, compact system is moving through the Midwest on Thursday with a streak of snow, which may be moderate across Iowa. Showers will continue in the Pacific Northwest while cold air seeps down from the Canadian Prairies.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 31, 2024 |
NCBA Reacts to Temporary Relief from CTA The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says a recent decision putting the Corporate Transparency Act reporting requirements on hold is “confusing.” Kent Bacus, NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs, says the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court reversed the ruling it had issued before Christmas and has instead decided to uphold the injunction blocking the Corporate Transparency Act from taking effect. “This means U.S. cattle producers have yet another reprieve from filing beneficial ownership information with the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCen,” Bacus says. “These court rulings have gone back and forth and continue to add to the overall confusion.” He also says NCBA urges all cattle producers to consult with their attorney and tax professional for the latest information in case of more changes. “NCBA is continuing to urge Congress to pass legislation that will permanently protect cattle farmers and ranchers from this burdensome mandate,” Bacus added. *********************************************************************************** December Rural Mainstreet Index Drops from November Bump After advancing above growth neutral in November for the first time since 2023, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index sank below the 50.0 reading in December. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture or energy. The December index plummeted to 39.6 from November’s 50.2. It was the 11th time this year that the overall reading was below growth neutral. The index range is 0 to 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral. “In retrospect, there appears to have been a significant November upturn resulting from the surprising Trump election results,” says Dr. Ernie Goss (GAHS) of Creighton University. “The positive bump disappeared in December.” Roughly one in four bankers reported their local economy was either in a recession or would enter a downturn in 2025. The remaining three out of the four bankers expect slow growth but no recession next year. *********************************************************************************** Rapid Growth for Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel in 2024 The U.S. is on pace to surpass five billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel consumption for the first time. That caps a 2024 that saw increased efforts from states to drive adoption, updates to technical standards, growth in soybean crush capacity, and growing public support for clean transportation fuel. Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen says a strong 2024 has set the industry up for further growth in air, marine, rail, and heavy-duty transportation use. “Consumers and corporations are demanding more clean fuel, and they are increasingly turning to biodiesel and renewable diesel for it,” Rehagen said. “Our industry has become a central force in the global effort to curb greenhouse gas emissions.” One factor in the improvement is the number of states that implemented clean fuel policies. Updated fuel specs will create opportunities in the new year. Biodiesel and renewable diesel will continue making farms stronger in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Highlights 2024 Work Dairy checkoff initiatives of 2024 successfully increased dairy access in schools, expanded market share for U.S. dairy products domestically and internationally and supported the industry’s commitment to sustainability. Dairy Management Inc. President and CEO Barbara O’Brien says the checkoff is working and achieving a lot in building its next chapter. She outlined the “Now, Next, and Future” checkoff strategies at the joint annual meeting. “All of the successes were made possible by the dedication and hard work of everyone across the checkoff federation,” O’Brien said. “This was a strong year of results as we continue to work with and through others to catalyze action in energizing our trust- and sales-building priorities.” The Dairy Checkoff launched the Dairy Conservation Navigator, a resource hub designed to give farm advisors, stakeholders, and conservation professionals science-based information on sustainable practices and technologies. DMI also unveiled its InnovateWithDairy.com tool to help spur industry innovation ideas. *********************************************************************************** First Ever Ammonia Carbon Intensity Verification Program The Fertilizer Institute is launching the Verified Ammonia Carbon Intensity program, a voluntary certification of the carbon footprint of ammonia production at a specific facility. It’s the first program of its kind and is designed to provide ammonia consumers seeking to reduce emissions across their supply chains with an independent and certifiable carbon intensity score. “As agriculture looks to develop more sustainable and resilient supply chains, the Verified Ammonia Carbon Intensity program provides ammonia consumers with certifiable transparency that will allow them to quantify the positive impact using low-carbon ammonia has on their greenhouse gas emissions footprint,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. VACI is initiating a 60-day public consultation period for ammonia consumers and stakeholders to provide feedback on the program and its methodology via a survey. VCI intends to redefine the program based on the comments it receives. Ammonia is one of the world’s most widely produced chemicals.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 31, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets E.I.A. Monthly Biofuels Capacity and Feedstocks at 11 a.m. CST NASS Agricultural Prices at 2 p.m. CST Weather A storm system that brought some moderate precipitation to parts of the Plains on Monday continues through the Midwest on Tuesday. Higher temperatures there are leading to mostly rain, though some snow will mix in on the northern edge, especially Tuesday night. Cooler air is filling in behind the system, which will lead to lake-effect snow for the rest of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 30, 2024 |
Trump Threatens to Take Back Panama Canal Control Reports say President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal. Farmdoc says he accused Panama of charging excessive rates to use the passage, which drew a sharp rebuke from Panama’s president. Speaking to supporters in Arizona, Trump also said he wouldn’t let the Canal fall into the wrong hands, warning of potential Chinese influence on the passage. Reaction from South American experts says Trump’s stance is “baffling” as Panama’s president is considered to be a pro-business conservative who’s made a lot of overtures to show he wants a special relationship with the U.S. “The Panama Canal is a critical choke point for U.S. agriculture and the overall U.S. economy,” says Dennis Rudat of Farm News Media. “Seventy-two percent of all cargo transiting the Panama Canal is either coming or going to the U.S., including a substantial portion of U.S. agricultural exports,” says Farm Bureau’s Betty Resnick. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Milton Hits Almost Six Million Ag Acres A report from the University of Florida says Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 hurricane, when it made landfall on October 9, hit more than 5.7 million acres of agricultural land. Over 68 percent of those acres were grazing land. Across all commodity groups, approximately 62 percent of impacted acreage experienced low-intensity weather conditions. Another 38 percent of the acreage experienced moderate-intensity weather conditions, and less than one percent experienced high-intensity weather conditions. Preliminary estimates of production losses for Florida’s agricultural producers from Milton are between $190.4 million and $642.7 million. The commodity groups hit hardest in terms of production losses were vegetables, melons, and potatoes, followed by greenhouse-nursery producers and animals and animal products. Damage to infrastructure included homes, livestock buildings, watering points, perennial plantings, conservation structures, honeybee boxes, fences, farm equipment, and irrigation systems. There was a lot of damage to stored agricultural inputs like fertilizer, feed, and animal medicines. *********************************************************************************** Port Labor Dispute Affecting Red Meat Exports U.S. agriculture is bracing for a potential work stoppage at East and Gulf Coast ports that could greatly disrupt American red meat exports. Contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance broke down in mid-November over issues related to automation and have shown little progress over the past month. The two sides reached a tentative agreement on wages in early October and temporarily extended the existing labor agreement. However, the contract extension will expire on January 15. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says the uncertainty is already impacting red meat exports. USMEF President Dan Halstrom says ocean carriers are announcing surcharges related to a potential strike, and exporters are forced to look, where possible, to divert shipments to other ports. Approximately 45 percent of waterborne U.S. pork exports ship out of the East and Gulf Coast ports, and on the beef side, that total is 30 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Disappointed in No Year-Round E15 Following Congressional votes on year-end legislation, National Corn Growers Association President Ken Hartmann, Jr., says corn growers were disappointed about no year-round access to E15. “We thought it would be in the end-of-year legislation package,” he said. “This no-cost provision would have provided a market-driven solution to farmers experiencing low corn prices.” The organization is calling on legislators to address this matter as quickly as possible at the start of the new Congress and fix the issue once and for all. “The National Corn Growers Association is appreciative of House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership and our other champions who worked hard to extend the farm bill and provide much-needed economic and disaster assistance in farm country,” said Hartmann, Jr., a farmer from Illinois. “This assistance will help growers reeling from natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires and multiple years of low crop prices paired with higher input costs.” *********************************************************************************** November Egg Production Down Four Percent U.S. egg production totaled 8.92 billion during November 2024, down four percent from last year. Production included 7.68 billion table eggs and 1.24 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.15 billion were broiler-type and 90.3 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during November totaled 376 million, down three percent from last year. November egg production per 100 layers was 2,374 eggs, down one percent from November 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on December 1, 2024, was 375 million, down three percent from last year. The 375 million layers consisted of 311 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 60.7 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.78 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of lay per day on December 1, 2024, averaged 79 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from December 1, 2023. Egg-type chicks hatched during November 2024 totaled 48.8 million, up one percent from November 2023. *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation is Funding the Future Thanks to a dedicated group of 16 Angus breeders, the Fund the Future Campaign garnered $36,400 for the Angus Fund in fiscal year 2024. The funds help support the Foundation’s mission and events like the Beef Leaders Institute and Young Cattlemen’s Conference. The Angus Foundation is excited about the new year and the opportunities it brings. In the new year, an anonymous donor pledged to match the first $30,000 raised, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar donated. “I’m thrilled to watch the campaign expand and see more breeders getting involved in 2025,” says Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “The simplicity of participation has sparked excitement, with breeders eager to contribute and knowing their donations are making an impact on the Angus breed.” The Fund the Future Campaign offers breeders a unique opportunity to give back through annual production sales, consignment sales, bull sales, or even private treaty opportunities.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 30, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST CFTC's holiday-delayed Commitments of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A small system is moving through the Western Corn Belt for Monday, bringing a mix of rain and snow and areas of high winds. Colder air is building over the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains and will follow the system east for Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 27, 2024 |
Beneficial Ownership Deadline Extended The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association wants to remind all producers that the Corporate Transparency Act filing requirements are back in effect. A recent court of appeals decision reversed an injunction that previously had stopped the mandate. “The Corporate Transparency Act requires millions of family farmers and ranchers to file complex paperwork and disclose beneficial ownership information with the federal government under penalty of severe fines and jail time,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. In light of the overturned injunction, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network announced it will delay enforcement of the CTA until January 13, 2025. NCBA and other groups say this delay doesn’t allow enough time for millions of small businesses to comply with the law, and it’s deeply concerning that FinCEN (FIN-sen) will proceed with enforcing the law when it has failed to give adequate notice and instructions to law-abiding family business owners. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent As of December 1, 2024, there were 75.8 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up one percent from December 2023 but down slightly from September 1, 2024. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published last week by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Other key findings include that of the 75.8 million hogs and pigs, 69.8 million were market hogs, while six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November 2024, 35.2 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, up two percent from the same period last year. From September through November, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.92 pigs per litter. America’s hog producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between December 2024 and February 2025 and 2.95 million sows farrow between March and May 2025. Iowa’s hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states, at 24.6 million head. *********************************************************************************** Soy Groups Receive Additional RAP Funding The American Soybean Association, ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health Program, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council received a second round of funding from the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. The RAPP 2 Award from the U.S. Ag Department’s Foreign Agricultural Service will be invested in international market diversification and growth of U.S. soybean exports to help meet increasing protein demand and support nutrition security in global markets. “The American Soybean Association and our allied groups are exceptionally pleased to be included in the second round of RAPP grants, funding that will continue to open doors for U.S. agriculture exports in emerging markets,” says Caleb Ragland, ASA President and Kentucky farmer. “Soy is proud to be our country’s number one export but that doesn’t mean we can sit idle: We pride ourselves in finding innovative, collaborative ways to tap and expand markets around the world for our high-protein, high-quality soybeans.” *********************************************************************************** Meat Supplies in Cold Storage Drop in November The USDA says red meat in cold storage declined in November. Meat supplies in freezers on November 30 fell three percent month over month and five percent year over year to 7.41 billion pounds. In a report this week, USDA said that beef in storage totaled 440.5 million pounds, a two percent increase from October but down four percent from the same month in 2023. Boneless cuts in freezers rose three percent from the previous month to 398.2 million pounds. Pork stockpiles were reported at 391.1 million pounds, down eight percent on a monthly basis and six percent annually. About 69.3 million pounds of ham were in storage at the end of November, down 40 percent from the previous month but up 21 percent year over year. Bellies jumped 39 percent month to month to 22.5 million pounds, but that was down 53 percent from the same time last year. *********************************************************************************** How Economic Assistance for Farmers Will Be Distributed A Continuing Resolution keeping the government fully funded through March 14, 2025, also included economic aid for farmers experiencing one of the biggest income drops in many years. In fact, over the past two years, USDA projects that farmers will experience the steepest two-year decline in net farm income in history. Meanwhile, due to an ineffective safety net, government help for producers is slated to be at the lowest level since 1982. “The “Economic Loss Assistance Program” set aside $10 billion in direct payments for farmers. Farm Journal says while payment rates aren’t final yet, early estimates are out for various commodities. The corn payment for producers is estimated to be $43.80 per acre, while soybean payments are estimated at $30.61 per acre. Wheat farmers will receive $31.80 an acre, cotton growers are estimated to receive $84.70 an acre, and rice will receive $71.37. Twenty-one commodities are eligible for assistance. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Processors to Pay Millions in Lawsuit Nine of the nation’s largest poultry processors have agreed to pay settlements in a years-long antitrust lawsuit alleging that they conspired to depress workers’ wages at their facilities. The plaintiffs in the class action filed a memorandum on December 23 supporting a motion for preliminary approval of the nine new settlements by the defendants in the case. The suit was filed in 2019 and alleges that chicken companies and two consulting firms conspired to fix and depress hourly wages and benefits dating back to January 1, 2009. The plaintiffs also seek the appointment of a settlement counsel and a stay of the proceedings against the defendants that are settling. The 18 chicken producers named in the lawsuit, along with several of their subsidiaries, produce the majority of chicken sold in the U.S. Feedstuffs says the motion seeks approval of nine settlements, including Tyson Foods and Keystone Foods paying a combined $115 million.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 27, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 12 p.m. CST Weather A disturbance will lift through the Midwest on Friday and provide widespread, scattered rain showers as temperatures remain warm enough for any snow to be isolated in far northern areas. Some areas across the western Midwest could see 0.5-1.0 inch of rain. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 30s/40s Northern Plains and Pacific Northwest; 30s/50s Midwest; 40s/50s Central Plains; 50s/60s Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 26, 2024 |
Court Reinstates Beneficial Ownership Requirement On Monday, the 5th U.S. Circuit Appeals Court lifted a federal district court’s earlier order, which had previously halted the January 1, 2025 deadline for small businesses to file their beneficial ownership information with the Treasury Department. The Corporate Transparency Act passed by Congress in 2021 requires the paperwork to be filed by the Treasury’s Finanicial Crimes Enforcement Network. The CTA requires that owners and part-owners of an estimated 32.6 million small businesses, including 230,000 farms, must register their personal information with FinCEN. The American Farm Bureau estimates that this appeals court ruling now puts tens of thousands of farms back on the legal deadline to register their businesses with the federal government. Of the 230,000 farms that are likely required to file, only 11 percent had done so as of October. Farmers are encouraged to contact an accountant or an attorney if they are unsure about whether they are required to file the information.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 26, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Crop Update at 12 p.m. CST Weather Widespread, scattered rain showers and a few severe thunderstorms will extend through the southeast Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley on Thursday as a disturbance passes through the region. Rain showers will eventually spread into the Western Midwest later tonight as temperatures remain warm enough for mainly rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 24, 2024 |
U.S. Prevails in USMCA Dispute with Mexico U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the U.S. has prevailed in its dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement challenging Mexican biotechnology measures on GE corn imports. The USMCA panel agreed with the U.S. on all seven legal claims, finding that Mexico’s measures banning imports of GMO corn from the U.S. were not based on sound science and undermined the market access that Mexico agreed to provide in the trade agreement. “Mexico’s measures ran counter to decades’ worth of evidence demonstrating the safety of agricultural biotechnology, underpinned by science and risk-based regulatory review systems,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Under USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the final report (December 20th) to comply with the Panel’s findings. “The panel’s conclusion backs up our long-held position that agricultural trade policies must be grounded in science and must not disrupt trade in agricultural products,” says USTR Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip. *********************************************************************************** Groups React to USMCA Panel Decision In a major win for the nation’s corn growers, a USMCA dispute panel ruled that Mexico violated its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The violation took place in early 2023 when Mexico issued a decree that banned genetically modified corn imports. “This is an incredible development for the nation’s corn growers and rural communities,” says Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association. “The outcome is a direct result of advocacy efforts of corn grower leaders from across the country.” The U.S. Grains Council also hailed the good news. “Mexico has always been a powerful partner to U.S. corn growers and exporters, so when the country tried banning GM imports, it would have severely affected our industry,” says Ryan LeGrand, USGC President and CEO. “The Council worked to help ensure the dispute result was fair, and we look forward to continuing our work with our top U.S. grains-in-all-forms customer.” *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Driving Egg Costs Higher Shoppers were buying more eggs to bake Christmas treats ahead of the holiday season at the same time U.S. wholesale egg prices were up 150 percent from last year. Reuters says the average retail price of a dozen eggs surpassed $3.60 in November, $2.50 higher than the prices in January. September’s average price was even higher at $3.80 per dozen. Retailers didn’t want to push shoppers away during the busy holiday season, so they’ve been slow to raise their prices to pass on the higher costs. However, those price hikes could come in early 2025. The main factor pushing egg prices higher is bird flu’s impact on the American laying flock. The virus has wiped out 123 million chickens, turkeys, and other poultry in 49 states since the outbreak began in 2022. Nationwide, the laying hen flock in October was three percent lower than in 2023 at approximately 315 million birds. *********************************************************************************** Conservation Proponents Disappointed with Congressional CR Congress passed a year-end bill that includes a continuing resolution extending current levels of federal funding until March, including an extension of the 2018 Farm Bill. However, the National Association of Conservation Districts was disappointed the package didn’t include Inflation Reduction Act conservation funding. “The failure to include conservation funding in an end-of-year bill forgoes an incredible opportunity,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. “Unfortunately, it reflects Congress’ increasing inability to negotiate and pass commonsense solutions.” The American Farmland Trust was also let down by a lack of conservation funding. “Conservation programs are popular, oversubscribed, and key to helping producers remain profitable and build resilience to extreme weather,” AFT says in a release. “By transferring those dollars to build the farm bill conservation baseline, Congress could have ensured additional conservation funding to meet the high demand. Thousands of farmers won’t be able to enhance profit margins while protecting soil and water quality.“ *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Down Slightly 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 12 million head on December 1, 2024. That inventory level was slightly below December 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during November totaled 1.8 million head, four percent below the same time in 2023. Net placements totaled 1.74 million head. During November, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 495,000 ahead, 600-699 pounds were 420,000 head, 700-799 pounds totaled 375,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 276,000 head, 900-999 pounds totaled 145,000 head, and 1,000 pounds or greater reached 85,000 head. Marketings of fed cattle during November totaled 1.73 million head, one percent below November 2023. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 ahead during November, which was two percent higher than in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Farm Progress Holds Successful 2024 Organic Grower Summit The 2024 Organic Grower Summit in Monterey, California, again proved to be the premier gathering for the Organic farming community. The event welcomed hundreds of participants from across the U.S. organic industry. “This year’s enthusiastic participation underscores the growing interest in sustainable and innovative farming practices,” says Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress national events director. “The Organic Grower Summit provides a platform for collaboration and learning for stakeholders who are shaping the future of organic farming.” The seminar’s educational sessions covered critical topics like soil health, ag technology, and market resiliency. A major focus was the increasing importance of regenerative farming practices. “It’s inspiring to see the organic community come together to share knowledge and celebrate progress,” says Jungmann. “We’re grateful to our sponsors, partners, and exhibitors, and we’re already looking forward to next year.” The 2025 Organic Summit will return to Monterey, California, December 3-4. For updates, go to OrganicGrowerSummit.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 24, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets No major economic or USDA reports scheduled due to Christmas Eve. Market will trade a shortened session, closing at 12:05 p.m. CST. Weather A system will provide scattered showers and thunderstorms to the eastern half of the Southern Plains and the Lower Mississippi Valley on Tuesday. Marginally severe thunderstorms are possible across eastern Texas and locally heavy rainfall over two inches may develop across parts of eastern Oklahoma into western Arkansas. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 20s/40s Midwest; 30s/40s Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains; 40s/50s Central Plains; 50s/60s Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 23, 2024 |
USDA Assistance for Distressed Loans Borrowers The USDA announced the final $300 million in assistance to distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers under the Inflation Reduction Act. Over the past two years, USDA acted swiftly to assist distressed borrowers in retaining their land and continuing their agricultural operations. The assistance will provide $300 million in help to more than 12,800 distressed direct and guaranteed Farm Loan Program borrowers. “USDA has always been committed to standing by our nation’s farmers and ranchers, especially during their most challenging times,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This final round of payments will help almost 13,000 producers stay on their land and continue farming.” The assistance includes $168.5 million for payments of any outstanding delinquencies on qualifying direct loans as of November 30, 2024, for direct borrowers one or more days delinquent as of that date. Distressed borrowers may get assistance in multiple categories if they have multiple qualifying loans. *********************************************************************************** China Makes Big U.S. Soybean Purchase China’s Sinograin (SY-no-grain) bought almost 500,000 metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. for shipping in March or April. Two U.S. traders familiar with the purchase say Sinograin paid more for American supplies for its state reserves rather than buying cheaper beans from Brazil. China is the world’s number one soybean buyer and an important market for both the U.S. and Brazil. The industry is closely watching sales and the flow of trade to China ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. There is significant industry concern that another round of trade tariffs between the two nations would erode the value of U.S. soybeans. Soybean prices hit lows not seen in four years because of trade tensions, high stockpiles in the U.S., and a possible record harvest in Brazil. Reuters says Sinograin, China’s state-run grains trader and reserves manager, recently bought 750,000 tons for shipping from January through March. *********************************************************************************** Mexico is U.S. Dairy’s Most Reliable Customer America’s dairy exports to Mexico are approaching record levels as consumer demand for dairy products continues to outpace the country’s production. Mexico is the leading market for U.S. dairy products, comprising over one-fourth of international sales. Dairy product consumption in Mexico has increased by 50 pounds per capita since 2011. A new CoBank report says the upside potential for increasing U.S. dairy sales to Mexico remains strong, and broader export market opportunities are positioning the U.S. dairy industry for long-term growth. “Dairy product sales to Mexico have the potential for continued growth as more consumers enter the middle class and seek higher-quality proteins and fats,” says Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist for CoBank. “Mexico faces an annual dairy product deficit ranging between 25-30 percent, and the U.S. supplies over 80 percent of the shortfall.” The EU and New Zealand are the top two dairy exporters, but production stalled in those regions. *********************************************************************************** Six More States in National Milk Testing Strategy The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced another round of states coming on board with the National Milk Testing Strategy that launched on December 6. It requires unpasteurized milk samples to be collected and shared with USDA for testing. This represents another step toward conducting complete nationwide surveillance under the NMTS and continues building on the measures taken by USDA and its federal and state partners since the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle was first detected in the U.S. in March 2024. The seven states that will be included in the second round of the testing strategy are Indiana, Maryland, Montana, New York, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington. While the new federal order is effective immediately and has been in effect since it was announced on December 6, USDA will continue working with other states to bring them on board as quickly as possible while also accommodating state-specific needs. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Submits Comments on 45Z Tax Credit National Corn Growers responded to a request for information from Congress and sent comments outlining the importance of the 45Z tax credit. If enacted, the credit would provide the nation’s corn growers with access to the sustainable aviation market. The comments come as growers try to evaluate the importance of the tax credit, called 45Z, which is part of the Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2022. Corn grower leaders have said they want in on the new market. “NCGA believes farmers should be considered in the implementation of this tax credit because they contribute much to the lifecycle of biofuels,” the comments said. The letter also noted the value the tax credit provides to domestic energy security. “NCGA believes corn and soybean feedstocks are best suited for the 45Z tax credit to support domestic American-grown solutions.” NCGA has long advocated for the tax credit and pushed for realistic guidelines. *********************************************************************************** Red Meat Production Down Three Percent in November USDA says red meat production fell year over year in November as cattle and hog slaughter both declined. Commercial meat output totaled 4.56 billion pounds in November, down three percent from November 2023. Beef production dropped three percent on an annual basis to 2.22 billion pounds. Cattle slaughter fell six percent to 2.57 million head last month. USDA said the average weight was up 38 pounds to 1,425 pounds. Pork output was 2.33 billion pounds in November, down two percent year over year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.8 million head, down two percent from the same time in 2023. Average live hog weight was unchanged at 289 pounds. Lamb and mutton production was down seven percent annually to 10.4 million pounds. Sheep slaughter fell nine percent to 173,600 head. In the first 11 months of the year, red meat production rose to 50.4 billion pounds, up one percent from last year.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 23, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Consumer Confidence Report USDA Weekly Export Inspections USDA Hogs & Pigs Report Weather A small system will work through the Midwest on Monday, providing light snow showers and pockets of freezing rain or a mix of rain and snow. Later today into tonight, a system is expected to develop across Oklahoma and Texas, lending to scattered rain showers developing in eastern parts of these states. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 20s/40s Northern Plains and Midwest; 30s/40s Pacific Northwest; 40s/50s Central Plains and Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 20, 2024 |
Iowa Soybean Partners with State for Water Quality Efforts A public-private partnership between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), the Iowa Soybean Association, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will invest over $2.3 million to install nutrient-reducing practices in priority Iowa watersheds. The majority of the funding will come from IDALS for outreach and to farmers and landowners who will then work with conservation staff to implement practices like saturated buffers, oxbows, and perennial cover. The $1.4 million put up by IDALS will also support design and engineering costs. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig (nag) announced the project at the Iowa Soybean Association’s Winter Policy Conference. This project, and others like it, prove collaborating is key to making meaningful progress. ****************************************************************************** New Pest Alert! Heads up for the Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper A notorious pest of cotton, okra, eggplant, and others has become established in the Caribbean basin. It has now been detected in several counties in Florida, from Miami-Dade County in the south to Jackson County in the north. The two-spot cotton leafhopper was first detected in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico in spring 2023. At the time, the only other Western Hemisphere record for this species was a single male labeled “Cuba” deposited in the U.S. National Museum. There are no other prior or subsequent reported finds in Cuba. Two-spot cotton leafhoppers feed on the lower surface of leaves, extracting the contents of the cells. This causes yellowing, reddening, then browning of leaves, with wilting and curling of the leaves. Adult two-spot cotton leafhoppers are tiny. They superficially resemble other leafhopper species such as the potato leafhopper. They can be distinguished by a dark spot on each wing and often by two dark spots on the head. ****************************************************************************** New Genetic Test Will Help Safeguard Quinoa from Top Foe Quinoa (keen-wah) is a grain-like seed offers a flavorful and is nutrition-packed. But in order for this versatile seed to get from farm field to table, quinoa growers must be vigilant for signs of downy mildew, a disease that can decimate the crop if left unchecked. To help growers, a team of researchers led by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) plant pathologist Anna Testen devised a fast new test to genetically detect the pathogen in both quinoa seed and leaf tissue. The advance opens the door to countering downy mildew on several fronts—with benefits to U.S. growers hoping to expand the crop and to consumers. Quantitative PCR is much more sensitive, meaning it can detect smaller amounts of DNA, than standard PCR, so there are fewer false negatives. ****************************************************************************** Louisiana Patient Has First Severe Illness Caused by Bird Flu in U.S. Health officials announced Wednesday the patient had been in contact with sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Previous illnesses in the U.S. had been mild and the vast majority had been among farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. The CDC confirmed the Louisiana infection on Friday, but did not announce it until Wednesday. It’s also the first U.S. human case linked to exposure to a backyard flock. Previous illnesses in the U.S. had been mild and the vast majority had been among farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. This year, more than 60 bird flu infections have been reported, with over half of them in California. ****************************************************************************** California Declares State of Emergency for Bird Flu California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday issued a state of emergency in response to a worsening bird flu outbreak that’s affected hundreds of dairy herds. The action will ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need around staffing, contracting and other rules to support the state’s response to the outbreak, according to the emergency proclamation. Statewide, bird flu has spread to 641 dairies in nine counties since late August, when the first detections in cattle emerged. It has infected 34 people in California to date. Newsom said a shift from regional containment to statewide monitoring was necessary, citing livestock infections at four Southern California dairies on Dec. 12. The state has already taken steps to address the bird flu virus, including enhanced testing of raw milk and livestock. To date, no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected in the U.S. ****************************************************************************** South Dakota’s Callie Mueller Named Miss Rodeo America 2025 Mueller was crowned December 8th at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. She also received the Appearance Award. The Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold crown is accompanied by over $20,000 in educational scholarships and prizes. This year’s national pageant featured 29 contestants from across the country. The competition included a horsemanship contest, a written test on equine science and rodeo knowledge, extensive interviews, extemporaneous speaking, and a fashion show. As Miss Rodeo America 2025, Callie will serve as the official representative of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. During her reign, she will travel over 40,000 miles and appear at nearly 100 rodeo performances, as well as attend various schools, civic groups, and special events to educate the public about rodeo, its sponsors and its opportunities. According to the Miss Rodeo America website, prior to Mueller, the most recent Miss Rodeo South Dakota to also earn the national title was Jordan Tierney in 2020-21.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 20, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Personal Consumption Expenditure data at 7:30 a.m. CST Cattle on Feed at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A weakening clipper system is moving through the Great Lakes and into the Northeast for Friday with scattered snow showers. The system is still pulling in some colder air that will spread through the eastern half of the country into the weekend. Another small clipper is moving through the Canadian Prairies and into the Northern Plains with streaks of light snow as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 19, 2024 |
Year-Round E15 Access in Continuing Resolution The Renewable Fuels Association thanked congressional leaders for including a provision allowing the year-round sale of lower-cost, cleaner-burning E15 in the stop-gap funding bill text released by the House of Representatives. “We are thrilled to see the long-awaited fix allowing year-round E15 in this package,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “This language would finally remove an outdated regulatory barrier and we’re hopeful that the continuing resolution will move swiftly through Congress and to the president’s desk for a signature.” He also says allowing year-round E15 sales would benefit farmers, fuel retailers, and consumers wanting lower-cost, cleaner fuel options at the pump. RFA thanked the House leadership, the Energy Committee leadership, and the dozens of House members on both sides of the aisle who advocated for the inclusion of this long-overdue provision. At an average price of $2.62 per gallon nationwide, it’s selling at an 8.7 percent discount to E10. *********************************************************************************** Congress Leaving Town with No Prop 12 Fix The National Pork Producers Council is deeply disappointed in Congress’ decision to relinquish its responsibility to produce a five-year farm bill and an overdue federal solution to California’s Proposition 12. The organization says pork producers don’t have the luxury of waiting for Congress to pass a new five-year bill. “After years of losing money and forcing family farms out of business, we needed the certainty to make decisions,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President and a Minnesota pork producer. “America’s pork producers have continually raised our voices and have ultimately been ignored by Congress through its failure to provide a solution to the problems created by Prop 12.” Instead, Congressional leadership announced its intention to pass a “clean” one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill, denying new programs or funding. NPPC and other agricultural stakeholders will continue to push Congress to provide a federal solution to Prop 12 and other priorities. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Fertilizer’s Economic Impact The Fertilizer Institute released the 2024 Fertilizer Industry Economic Impact Study, highlighting the importance and economic contributions of the U.S. fertilizer industry on national, state, and local economies. The study also underscores the global nature of fertilizer markets and the importance of open markets and fair competition in providing farmers access to vital nutrients exactly when and where they are needed. “Fertilizer is a critical component of the global food supply chain,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The data reveals the industry’s significant economic impact and provides an opportunity to educate people about fertilizer’s complex global network and its reliance on open markets and fair competition to meet the needs of America’s farmers.” Trade is a critical component of the fertilizer industry and promotes the global interconnectivity of fertilizer markets. For example, the U.S. imports 98 percent of its potash from Canada, and Florida ships phosphate back to Canada. *********************************************************************************** NSP Announces 2024 Sorghum Yield Contest Winners National Sorghum Producers announced the winners of the 2024 National Sorghum Yield Contest. That included the Bin Buster awardee Kenny Rathjen of Texas, who took the top spot in the contest at 240.01 bushels per acre. “On behalf of NSP, I’m so proud to congratulate our 2024 Yield Contest winners,” says NSP Board of Directors Chair Amy France. “These outstanding results highlight the resilience and innovation of U.S. sorghum farmers.” She also says from Texas to New Jersey, the achievements of those growers continue to inspire and set a high standard for the industry, and they look forward to honoring this year’s winners at the 2025 Commodity Classic. Noteworthy yields are spotlighted across three distinct divisions spanning from the eastern to western regions in the U.S. “These yields are a reminder of the vital role sorghum plays in a sustainable agriculture landscape,” France added. The winner’s list is at sorghumgrowers.com/yieldcontest. *********************************************************************************** Wisconsin Reports Human H5N1 Infection The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has detected the first presumptive positive human case of H5N1 infection. The human case follows an infected flock of commercial poultry identified in Barron County, Wisconsin, where this person was exposed to the infected flock. The case was identified through testing at the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene and is pending confirmation at the CDC. Wisconsin health officials are monitoring farm workers who may have been exposed to the virus and have provided them with information to protect their health. The risk to the general public in Wisconsin remains low. People who work directly with infected birds or animals are at higher risk. The H5N1 virus has continued to circulate in wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021. The virus is highly contagious and often fatal to domestic poultry. The disease varies in severity depending on the strain and the species infected. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Domestic Fertilizer Production USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is making domestic fertilizer production investments in nine states to increase competition, lower fertilizer costs for American farmers, and lower food costs for U.S. consumers. “When we invest in domestic supply chains, we drive down input costs and increase options for farmers,” Vilsack says. “Through today’s investments, USDA is bringing jobs back to the United States, lowering costs for families, and supporting farmer income.” USDA is investing more than $116 million through the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program to help eight facilities expand innovative fertilizer production in California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. FPEP is funded by the Commodity Credit Corporation and provides funding to independent business owners to help them modernize equipment, adopt new technologies, and build new production plants. Through the program, USDA has invested $517 million in 76 fertilizer production facilities to expand domestic fertilizer access.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 19, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets FAS Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless claims at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. GDP second revision at 7:3 a.m. CST Existing Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST Livestock Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system continues to work across the north for Thursday, continuing snow in the Northern Plains and spreading it through the northern Midwest. Strong winds will push cold air through the country behind this clipper, but only for a couple of days as the year will end on a warm note.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 18, 2024 |
Last Minute Breakthrough on Farm Assistance House Speaker Mike Johnson announced a last-minute breakthrough on help for farmers. A must-pass bill to avert a government shutdown will now include farm aid, giving farmers something to celebrate the Christmas season. A high-pressure lobbying effort by multiple farm groups and Johnson himself has paid off. “What you’ll see reflected in this final package is $10 billion to start,” Johnson says. “In addition, USDA moved some things around and has added $2 billion for specialty crops they announced in late November, all of which means help is coming.” Johnson hopes with this announcement that a great sigh of relief is coming from farm country. “I’ve talked to several leaders in the ag community who say they’re greatly relieved,” Johnson added. While it’s not the $15 to $20 billion the American Farm Bureau and many others were asking for, Johnson says the new aid comes not a moment too soon. *********************************************************************************** NAFB Letter Supports AM Radio in the Continuing Resolution The National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s Board of Directors sent a letter to Congressional leadership on the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act being included in the Omnibus Continuing Resolution. The CR will be introduced before the end of the Lame Duck Session. The letter points out that for over 80 years, the NAFB’s broadcasters have worked hard to serve rural and urban residents with timely and accurate information in daily programming. “Failure to approve this critical AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act will allow automakers to eliminate access to critical information to the people we serve,” the letter says. “Rural and urban residents should not be forced to subscribe to an unreliable data stream for urgent information.” Radio access is especially important for America’s producers and rural audiences in times of emergency. For people working out in the open and miles from home, response time is critical. *********************************************************************************** Craig Voted the New Ranking Democrat on House Ag House Democrats voted to make Minnesota Representative Angie Craig the new Ranking Member on the Republican-controlled House Ag Committee. The Hill points out that Democrats chose a younger member of the House over long-time veteran legislator Jim Costa of California, who was also vying for the seat. Costa, the second-ranking member of the Ag Committee, has been on Capitol Hill for twenty years. She replaces David Scott of Georgia, the previous ranking member. The vote for Craig followed a decision from the Democrat’s Steering and Policy Committee to recommend Craig for the seat over Costa and Scott, who dropped out of the race on Monday after the Steering vote. Scott wanted to stay in the position, but he was considered to be having health challenges and not able to effectively operate as the top Democratic member of the Ag Committee moving forward. Craig won her fourth Congressional term in November. *********************************************************************************** Ten Percent Fewer U.S. Farms From 2012-2022 The 2022 Census of Agriculture showed the U.S. had 1,900,487 farms, down from over 2,100,000 in 2012. That represented a 10 percent drop, or 208,816 farms, in ten years. The Census of Ag is conducted every five years, and the last two five-year periods saw the number of farms decrease in all four farm size categories from 2012-2017. The smallest three categories fell from 2017-2022. Farms with annual revenue of less than $10,000 dropped the largest number within the decade, declining by over 151,000 farms, or 13 percent. On the other hand, large farms with $1 million or more in revenue increased by 32 percent, from 81,600 in 2012 to almost 108,000 in 2022. The number of farms with $10,000 to $249,999 in revenue dropped by 66,600, a nine-percent drop, from 2012 to 2022. Farms with revenues of $250,000 to $999,999 declined by more than 16,800, or a ten percent decrease. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections of Corn and Wheat Improve USDA’s inspections of corn and wheat for export rose week to week while soybean assessments declined during the week ending on December 12. Corn inspections for offshore delivery rose to 1.13 million metric tons, up from 1.06 million the week prior, and the 960,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2023. Wheat examinations increased to 298,000 tons from 247,000 tons the previous week and the 284,000 tons inspected at the same point last year. Soybean inspections fell to 1.68 million tons, down from the 1.74 million assessed a week earlier. That was higher than the 1.43 million assessed during the same week last year. Since the marketing year began on September 1, the government has inspected 13.3 million metric tons of corn, 25.2 million tons of soybeans, and, since June 1, 11.5 million tons of wheat. All three commodities are ahead of their yearly pace from last year. *********************************************************************************** More Raw California Milk Recalled California state ag officials have recalled raw milk from a Central Valley dairy after tests found the bird flu virus in a sample of milk from a bulk tank. State officials warned residents not to consume milk from Valley Milk Simply Bottled because it could lead to infection with this rare, emerging flu virus. No illnesses have been reported so far. It was the second raw milk recall in California in two weeks. Raw Farm LLC of Fresno voluntarily recalled all of its raw milk and cream products on December 3 due to possible bird flu contamination. Valley Milk is 100 miles away from Raw Farm LLC. The USDA says the H5N1 virus was recently identified in a backyard poultry flock in Louisiana, making it the 50th state to report an outbreak. Almost 124 million birds have died of H5N1 since the disease first appeared in flocks in February 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 18, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing starts and permits at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST FOMC Interest Rate Decision at 1 p.m. CST followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference Weather A system moving through the Midwest is producing a band of heavy rain and thunderstorms from northeast Texas through the Ohio Valley early Wednesday morning. That band of rain will sink south throughout the day but weaken, while spreading showers through the East Coast as well. A clipper system is forming in the Canadian Prairies and will be producing heavier snow there and into the Northern Plains throughout the day. Some mixed precipitation may occur on the southern end of the snow band through Wednesday night.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 17, 2024 |
Economic Aid for Farmers in Jeopardy Legislators are working to try and pass a continuing resolution to keep the government funded, but there were rumblings over the weekend that essential aid for the nation’s farmers wouldn’t be included. Farm Policy News says Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow moved conservation dollars from the Inflation Reduction Act into the baseline for the farm bill. She’d like to take the majority of those funds and put them into a package for farmers immediately. However, Speaker Mike Johnson says the majority of the GOP conference wouldn’t support a proposed agreement that adds Inflation Reduction Act funding into the legislation’s baseline. House GOP leadership says this is a Democratic priority, even though many lawmakers on both sides of the aisle support the move. Ultra-conservative GOP members want to outright cut those IRA dollars and block any additional federal spending. Additionally, some key Republican leaders want more money included for direct farmer aid. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Pressuring Congress for Farm Assistance Several groups reacted to the news that a continuing resolution to keep the government funded didn’t include assistance for struggling farmers. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall called on farm-state legislators to oppose the bill if economic aid for farmers is missing. Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association, says, “We are disappointed that Congress appears to be at an impasse over crucial economic assistance that farmers desperately need.” National Sorghum Producers Chair Amy France says while the assistance will not make producers whole, “It would be an essential step in helping farm families navigate difficult economic times.” National Association of Conservation Districts President Kim LaFleur says, “America’s producers urgently require help, and integrating IRA conservation investments has strong bipartisan support and would help.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says Congress’s “time is short, and they must not walk away from their responsibility to rural America.” *********************************************************************************** Legislators want Verification of Used Cooking Oil Imports Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa joined bipartisan colleagues in demanding answers from the Environmental Protection Agency regarding used cooking oil imports. The lawmakers want information on the agency’s process for verifying the authenticity of the imports. Responding to a congressional probe, Senior Customs and Border Protection official Troy Miller says the CBP considers UCO imports as pure even when co-mingled with virgin vegetable oil, such as palm oil. Based on that admission, the senators are slamming the EPA’s existing verification process as meaningless. “Without a robust verification process, the credibility of the Renewable Fuel Standard is at risk, and American farmers are likely missing out on key market opportunities,” the legislators said in a letter. “Through August, the U.S. has imported a historic 3.2 billion pounds of UCO this year, which is enough product to displace about 270 million bushels of soybeans. American farmers should be first on the list.” *********************************************************************************** FCS Updates 2025 Ag Economy Outlook The Farm Credit Administration’s board received an update on economic issues affecting agriculture. The U.S. economy has continued to show modest growth through 2024, as gains in productivity support real wage growth and boost consumer spending. For agriculture, there’s a sharp divergence in returns for crop and livestock sectors that has become apparent as producers enter 2025. Cash grain farmers are seeing lower returns, with average incomes down sharply this year. In contrast, cattle and dairy farms are forecast to see strong income as lower feed costs benefit producers across the livestock sector. Specialty commodity producers continue to be exposed to fast-growing costs such as labor and interest on farm debt. Farmland values in most regions have been flat in real terms this year. Early indicators find increasing softness in farmland markets as values decline for low-quality land and the number of transactions falls. Premiums for metro-adjacent farmland have risen. *********************************************************************************** November Tractor and Combine Sales Fall The Association of Equipment Manufacturers released the November 2024 Ag Tractor/Combine Sales Report that shows lower numbers than November 2023. U.S. sales of tractors in all classes dropped 14.5 percent compared to the same time last year. U.S. combine sales remain soft, showing a decline of 24 percent year to date in 2024. “November’s sales of tractors and combines follow the same pattern of the last few months of softness in the market,” says Curt Blades, AEM Senior Vice President. “This slowdown can be traced back to high interest rates and uncertainty in the ag economy.” U.S. sales of 100-plus horsepower tractors took the biggest drop in November, down 37 percent from November 2023. In Canada, 40-100 horsepower tractors are down 22.6 percent compared to last year, and four-wheel drive tractor sales were closer to stable but still five percent lower. Overall, Canada tractor sales dropped 18.8 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** No Mexican Cattle Imports into U.S. Before Holidays Last week, the USDA reversed course on comments that it may let cattle imports from Mexico into the U.S. resume before the year-end holidays. It suspended those imports in November due to discovery of the New World screwworm in Mexico. The agency says it’s approved a second round of emergency funding to block the flesh-eating livestock pest from getting into the U.S. “Shipments will likely resume incrementally after the New Year, with a full resumption of live animal imports soon after the calendar turns to 2025,” says Dr. Rosemary Sifford, USDA’s Chief Veterinary Officer. Jenny Lester Moffit, the USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, had previously told Reuters that imports could still resume in late December. The USDA is reaching into Commodity Credit Corporation funding to aid in the fight against the screwworm in Mexico and Central America, Moffit added. It approved $109.8 million in funding last year.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 17, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets FOMC meeting begins, with interest rate decision Wednesday. U.S. Retail Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization at 8:15 a.m. CST Weather A weak system is entering the Plains on Tuesday, bringing some snow to the Northern Plains. It will connect with a leftover front from east Texas to the Ohio Valley where showers will increase Tuesday night into Wednesday while light snow continues across the Great Lakes.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 16, 2024 |
Almost All U.S. Farms are Family-Owned The USDA’s Economic Research Service’s 2024 edition of America’s Farms and Ranches at a Glance says most U.S. farms (86 percent) are small family farms. These farms operate on 41 percent of U.S. agricultural land and account for 17 percent of the total value of American production. Large-scale family farms accounted for 48 percent of the total value of production and 31 percent of agricultural land in 2023. In total, family farms accounted for about 96 percent of total farms and 83 percent of the total production in 2023. Large-scale farms accounted for the majority of the value of cash grains and soybeans (52 percent), cotton (71 percent), and dairy (77 percent). Small family farms produced 45 percent of the value of hay and 46 percent of the total value of U.S. poultry and egg output in 2023. Small farms produced 22 percent of the overall U.S. beef production. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Announces Yield Contest Winners The National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the 2024 Yield Contest. All of the participants delivered outstanding yields, again showing the resilience and ingenuity that define U.S. agriculture. The Contest saw almost 7,800 entries from farmers in 45 states. Entrants across the ten production categories had yields averaging 284 bushels per acre. The highest yield for 2024 came from Charles City, Virginia, where David Hula produced 490.62 bushels per acre. The ground was in the Class H category (strip-till irrigated). “The Yield Contest continues to set the standard across the ag industry,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman, Jr. “This contest not only challenges farmers to showcase their expertise, but it also generates valuable agronomic data that drives continuous improvement and future success in agriculture.” Looking back to its beginnings in 1965, the NCGA’s Yield Contest launched with only 20 entrants. The complete list of winners is at ncga.com/YieldContest. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Corn, Soyoil Exports Outdo Previous Forecasts The USDA recently had to significantly boost its 2024-2025 export outlooks thanks to better-than-expected export sales for corn and soybeans. Last Tuesday’s WASDE shows record-low stocks to use for U.S. soybean oil. There was also a surprising number in corn ending stocks, which turned out to be smaller than the previous marketing year. Soybean oil sold for exporting in 2024-2025 totaled 416,356 metric tons as of November 28, the highest level in eight years for that date. Last week’s forecast surged 83 percent to 499,000 tons, or 1.1 billion pounds. That’s a three-year high point but still under the average for the last decade. Earlier this year, USDA predicted 2024-2025 U.S. corn ending stocks would surge 17 percent higher to 2.53 billion bushels. The WASDE had corn ending stocks for 2024-2025 at 1.738 billion bushels, down one percent from 2023-2024. Corn exports will jump six percent to 2.475 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Shipment Expected to Rise The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s monthly wheat outlook shows an expected jump in export forecasts because of weaker exports from Russia and the European Union. Wheat shipments will total 850 million bushels in the 2024-2025 marketing year that ends on May 31, 2025. That’s up from the prior outlook of 825 million bushels and well ahead of last year’s 707 million bushels. USDA says from June through October, wheat exports were reported at 366 million bushels, up 35 percent from the same time last year. The outlook report says the average farm price for wheat is $5.60 a bushel and is based on prices reported to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and expectations for prices from now through the end of May. “Futures prices have declined slightly amid improvements in winter wheat conditions, but global ending stocks are still projected at a nine-year low,” the government says. *********************************************************************************** CoBank Report Shows Forces Shaping the 2025 Rural Economy The U.S. continues benefiting from solid economic growth, low unemployment, and moderating inflation, and the overall economy will likely continue on that trajectory next year. However, the rural economic outlook is more uncertain. According to a comprehensive year-ahead outlook report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the high level of policy uncertainty facing rural industries adds to their already long list of headwinds. “Open access to export markets and labor availability are critically important for agricultural producers and processors,” says Rob Fox, director of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “Depending on how policy plays out, those two areas could be big challenges for 2025 and beyond.” That’s because the President-elect came out victorious on two main economic policy proposals: enact significant import tariffs and reduce immigration while deporting illegal immigrants. Meantime, falling feed costs and rising margins have renewed expansion interest in animal protein segments. Dairy processing investment will jump by $8 billion through 2026. *********************************************************************************** USB Elects Phillip Good as New Chair Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board elected Phillip Good from Macon, Mississippi, as the 2025 Chair during its December meeting in St. Charles, Missouri. He’s joined by ten additional farmer-leaders to serve on the Executive Committee. “I’m honored to serve as chair of the United Soybean Board, but it’s all of us working together to achieve one common goal of bringing value back to the soybean farmer,” Good says. “I’m proud to work alongside 76 passionate directors on this board who are strategic thinkers in finding out what is going to give us the greatest return.” He also says that’s especially important because U.S. soybean farmers are in a desperate situation regarding production costs. “When I think about the opportunities that’ll create the most impact, I think about new export opportunities, new technologies, job creation, and feeding the world,” Good adds. “All of that will create a ripple effect.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 16, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Empire State Manufacturing survey at 7:30 a.m. CST S&P U.S. Services and Manufacturing PMI data at 9:45 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10:00 a.m. CST Weather A system's low pressure is moving through southern Canada, but scattered showers are developing across the Midwest on Monday, including thunderstorms near the Ohio River. Some areas of heavy rain will occur in this area Monday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 13, 2024 |
AFBF President Duvall Seeks Fix for H-2A Farm Labor Issues in 2025 Farm labor has been an ongoing issue for the ag industry. With Republicans in control of both the House and Senate beginning January 3rd and President Trump returning to the White House on January 20th, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall tells Hoosier Ag Today that he’ll be pushing lawmakers on Capitol Hill next year to revise the H-2A Visa program. The H-2A program allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire non-immigrants from different countries for agricultural services throughout the year. However, the program has not been modernized since 1986. H-2A workers in Indiana must be paid the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which is $18.18 an hour. Meanwhile, the state’s minimum wage rate is $7.25 an hour. To complicate matters further, H-2A workers in other states may also be paid the Prevailing Wage, which is the average wage paid to similarly employed workers in a specific occupation in the area of intended employment. ****************************************************************************** Invasive Jumping Worms Expanding Territory into the Northeast and Midwest Native to central Asia and introduced to North America in the late 1800s, jumping worms have recently begun invading natural habitats in the Northeast and Midwest, spreading primarily through horticultural trade. There is also a possibility of their introduction through sale as baitworms, however this has not yet been documented in Canada. These invasive worms outcompete other earthworms and their castings degrade soil quality, leaving it inhospitable to many native plant species and susceptible to increased erosion. As they are voracious eaters, jumping worms quickly consume the top layer of organic material, making it difficult for plants to remain rooted and allowing nutrients to be washed away by rain. Despite their wide dispersal across the United States, knowledge and research gaps concerning their biology and ecology persist. More research into traits linked to their dispersal capacity, establishment and spread is needed to counter their invasion. ****************************************************************************** Reinke Unveils E3 Precision Center-pivot System New series claims increased water efficiency and streamlined maintenance. Reinke Manufacturing has unveiled its E3 precision series center pivot system — the third generation of Reinke Electrogator center-pivot systems. E3 takes things to the next level. It’s the first of its kind to have precision spacing from beginning to end. E3 is the first precision series of spans and end booms with uniform coupler spacing (in 30-inch and 60-inch intervals) to ensure a uniform water application rate the entire length of the system. The goal for E3 was to be as consistent and precise as possible. A wider distance between sprinkler locations of previous pivot models results in an increased nozzle size and more water applied to compensate. When the amount of water across the machine varies, it impacts the ability to be uniform. ****************************************************************************** Bird Flu Detected in Iowa Flock, Disaster Proclamation Extended The highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in a commercial turkey flock in Palo Alto County just days after the bird flu was detected in an egg-laying flock in Sioux County. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) announced the fifth detection of the H5N1 influenza virus this year on Sunday, and Gov. Kim Reynolds extended a disaster proclamation issued for Sioux County on Friday, to include Palo Alto County. IDALS announced Monday another case of HPAI was detected in Sioux County, also in a commercial egg-laying flock. The avian flu has also appeared in dairy cattle since spring 2024 and has affected nearly 60 humans who have come into contact with infected animals. The consumption of poultry and egg products remains safe, according to the department, as is the consumption of pasteurized dairy products. The USDA announced a new mandatory dairy testing program for the avian flu Dec. 6. ****************************************************************************** Judge Blocks Rule Strengthening Protections for Temporary Farmworkers Nationwide The regulation, which grants organizing and safety protections to H-2A visa holders, had already been overturned in a number of states. A federal court blocked a rule strengthening legal protections for temporary farmworkers from going into effect nationwide. The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi last month sided with farm groups, who argued the Department of Labor exceeded its authority when crafting a rule extending safety and organizing protections to H-2A visa holders. The decision comes after two previous court orders overturned the rule in a number of states and for certain grower groups. The American Farm Bureau Federation says it agrees that workers should be treated fairly and respectfully, but they also stressed that fairness to farmers is important and the DOL rule was overly broad to the point of being unlawful. ****************************************************************************** In a First, Arizona’s Attorney General Sues a Farm Over Water Use With agricultural overuse and drought draining aquifers across Arizona, the state’s chief law enforcement officer is suing Saudi Arabia-based Fondomonte. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes filed a nuisance lawsuit against an industrial agricultural operation Wednesday in a novel case that alleges the operation’s groundwater pumping is threatening public health and safety and the infrastructure of the surrounding community. The case targets Saudi Arabia-based Fondomonte Arizona LLC, which has farming operations in La Paz County on the state’s border with California that have become emblematic of Arizona’s water woes. The company has been the center of controversy in recent years, with its massive farms making international headlines as they grow alfalfa on state and private land to feed cattle in the Gulf kingdom with no government limits on the amount of water being pumped for the water-intensive crop.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 13, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Import and Export Price data at 7:30 a.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A burst of cold, arctic air that has found itself across the Corn Belt is already pushing eastward as temperatures rise in the Plains early Friday. That continues through the weekend. In the warm air, a small system will develop in the eastern Plains Friday night into Saturday, being a mix of precipitation types across the Upper Midwest, especially around Iowa.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 12, 2024 |
Food Prices Up Slightly in November The Food Price Index averaged 127.5 points in November 2024, up 0.5 percent from the October level, and reached its highest value since April 2023. The increase was driven by higher price quotations for dairy products and vegetable oil, which slightly outweighed declines in the meat, cereals, and sugar indexes. The Index was 5.7 percent higher than its corresponding value in November 2023. The number is also 21 percent below its peak of 160.2 points reached in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index averaged 111.4 points in November, down three points from October. The Vegetable Oil Price Index took the biggest jump, rising 11.4 points to 164.1 in November. The FAO Dairy Price Index was 139.9 points, up just under a full point from October. The Meat Price Index averaged 118.1 points in November, 0.9 points lower than in October, and the Sugar Price Index averaged 126.4 points, down 3.1 points. *********************************************************************************** Proposal to List Monarch Butterfly as Endangered The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed listing the Monarch Butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Farmers for Monarchs encourages producers to continue their conservation efforts. “Farmers and landowners play a critical role in monarch conservation, and this threatened listing proposal provides a way toward efforts that’ll benefit the monarch populations,” says Matt Mulica, senior project director at Keystone Policy Center, which facilitates Farmers for Monarchs. Ken Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association, says they look forward to providing input on protecting Monarch butterflies without disrupting critical agriculture activities that help feed and fuel the world. Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall says preserving natural surroundings for America’s wildlife has long been a priority for America’s farmers and ranchers. “The use of a 4(d) rule acknowledges the work farmers are already doing to protect the monarch while recognizing the need for flexibility in conservation efforts,” Duvall says. *********************************************************************************** TB Found in Northeast South Dakota Cattle Herd Bovine tuberculosis has been confirmed in a steer from South Dakota that was at a packing plant in Wisconsin. South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson says the infected steer was first identified in late October by meat inspectors during a routine inspection at the plant, and records linked the steer to a Hamlin County, South Dakota, feedlot that marketed the animal. Thompson says the TB infection was confirmed by the National Veterinary Surveillance Laboratory in Iowa last week. Thompson says her office is working with the feedlot owner, USDA officials, area veterinarians, and other producers who may have sold animals purchased by the feedlot to locate the steer’s original source herd. She also notes that precautions are being taken to protect the health of South Dakota’s cattle industry. Thompson says Bovine TB isn’t a threat to U.S. food safety because of milk pasteurization and comprehensive meat inspection programs. *********************************************************************************** MN Pork Producers Donate 90,000 Meals The Minnesota Pork Board donated almost 92,000 meals to Second Harvest Heartland, the Upper Midwest’s largest hunger relief organization. This donation reflects a continuing partnership between these organizations who are working together to provide high-quality protein and hunger relief to their state and region. The donation was presented by Olympic athletes Kassidy Cook and Sarah Bacon, active partners in the #CooknBacon promotion run by the Minnesota Pork Board. “We are so grateful for the Minnesota Pork Board’s continuing partnership, but it’s especially needed this year as neighbors deal with rising costs,” says Allison O’Toole, CEO of Second Harvest Heartland. “Prices for necessities like energy, housing, healthcare, and childcare continue climbing, and the more we pay those prices, the smaller our grocery budgets can get.” Todd Selvik, vice president of the MPB Board of Directors, says he’d like to thank Second Harvest Heartland for feeding families in Minnesota and the Midwest. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Respond to Proposed Dietary Guidelines Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, says his group thanks the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee for recognizing dairy’s role in a healthy diet. The committee continued recommending three servings of dairy for Americans two years and older. “The committee’s scientific review showed that reducing or eliminating dairy from the diet leads to undernourishment in key nutrients for millions of Americans,” Doud says. “The review also made clear that expanding the food group to include additional plant-based alternative beverages outside of fortified soy is not supported by scientific evidence.” This is especially important as the dietary guidelines greatly affect the food options available to children through school meals and other nutrition programs. “We are disappointed that the committee only recommends consumption of unflavored milk, especially as they acknowledge that flavored milk contains beneficial nutrients, and they didn’t find any connection between flavored milk and obesity risk,” he added. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Rural Jobs and Infrastructure USDA is investing $6.3 billion in rural and Tribal communities across 44 states to expand access to a clean and reliable electric grid, provide safe drinking water, and create good-paying jobs. “We know strong communities are rooted in their people,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These investments will build modern infrastructure that will attract employers to the nation’s smallest towns and most remote communities, creating jobs, vibrant Main Streets, and lasting economic growth for the people who live there.” More than 200 projects are being financed to strengthen the nation’s infrastructure in rural places, growing the American economy from the middle out and bottom up. For example, the agency is investing $5.7 billion in funding through the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee Program to help utility providers and electric cooperatives build and improve electric infrastructure and smart-grid technologies in 23 states. For more information, go to rd.usda.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 12, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Oil Crops Outlook from ERS at 11 a.m. CST Feed and Wheat Outlooks from ERS at 2 p.m. CST Weather A burst of cold air has spread out through much of the country east of the Rockies for Thursday, being coldest in the Corn Belt. In the cold air, some light snow will occur and lake-effect snows will be prevalent east of the Great Lakes.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 11, 2024 |
USDA Cuts Corn Ending Stocks by 200 Million Bushels The USDA’s December WASDE Report shows a 2024-2025 U.S. corn outlook of greater corn used for ethanol, larger exports, and lower ending stocks. Corn used to produce ethanol was raised 50 million bushels to 5.5 billion. Exports rose by 150 million bushels. With no other use changes, corn ending stocks are reduced by 200 million bushels to 1.7 billion. The season-average corn price received by producers is steady at $4.10 a bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use projections are unchanged from last month. The U.S. season-average soybean price is forecast at $10.20 a bushel, down sixty cents from last month. This month’s 2024-2025 wheat outlook is for slightly larger supplies, unchanged domestic use, increased exports, and lower ending stocks. While projected wheat ending stocks are reduced by 20 million bushels to 795 million, it’s still 14 percent higher than last year. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $5.60 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Marketing Assistance Available for Specialty Crop Producers The Farm Service Agency’s $2 billion Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Program is now accepting applications from December 10, 2024, through January 8, 2025. The goal of the program is to help specialty crop producers expand markets and manage higher costs. “Specialty crop growers have typically faced higher marketing and handling costs relative to non-specialty crop producers due to the perishability of fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops, and herbs,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Through this marketing assistance program, we can expand U.S. specialty crop consumption and markets by providing specialty crop producers the financial support they need to help them engage in activities that broaden and enhance strategies and opportunities for marketing their commodities.” The program helps specialty crop producers meet higher marketing costs related to things like the perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops, herbs, and others. For information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Inspections Improve Inspections of corn for overseas delivery increased week to week while bean and wheat assessments declined during the week ending on December 5. USDA data says corn inspections rose to 1.05 million metric tons, up from almost 949,000 tons a week earlier and well above the 725,000 tons assessed during the same week last year. Examinations for soybeans for export fell to 1.62 million tons, down from 2.11 million tons the prior week, but still above the 999,790 tons inspected at the same point in 2023. Wheat inspections were reported at 226,513 tons, down from 298,550 the previous week and 293,700 tons last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 12.1 million metric tons of corn, up from 9.19 million tons during the same period last year. Bean assessments are at 23.4 million tons, up from 19.8 million last year. Wheat assessments are currently 11.2 million tons. *********************************************************************************** Winter Forecast Features Pattern Shifts Following a frigid start to December across much of the eastern U.S. that featured feet of lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes, AccuWeather long-range experts have forecasted a temperature tug of war in the updated winter forecast. “We’re going to see waves of colder air through the winter season,” says long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok. “Get ready for a lot of ups and downs.” December kicked off with an arctic blast in the eastern U.S., leaving much of the West mild and dry. The pattern is flipping in mid-December with a thaw and mild weather in the east and central U.S., as well as rain and snow in parts of the West. “We’re favoring heavier rain and snow in the Pacific Northwest and occasionally in Northern California,” Pastelok said. “It could turn colder for the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Midwest, but not as intense as the start of the month.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Responds to Dietary Guidelines Report The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reiterated the important role of beef in a healthy diet and responded to the questionable advice published in the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s Scientific Report. Despite a wealth of high-quality scientific evidence that beef has an important role to play in a healthy diet, the committee is advising USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services that federal nutrition guidelines should include a reduction in red meat consumption. “Most Americans already eat beef within the Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ recommended levels for a healthy diet,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Public health advice should be based on the totality of scientific evidence.” He also says the Advisory Committee ignored robust and rigorous scientific evidence about beef’s essential nutrients and the foundational, positive role it plays in health as a preferred protein in a variety of healthy diets for all Americans. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Meal Exports Set a New Record U.S. soy remains America’s number one agricultural export, adding $31.2 billion to the U.S. economy in marketing year 2023-2024. Total soy export volumes were down from the prior year at 60.8 million metric tons, partly due to fewer carry-in stocks and the expansion of domestic crush. However, U.S. soybean meal exports set a record based on increased supply, strong demand, competitive prices, and its nutritional advantage. In the 2023-2024 marketing year, U.S. soybean meal exports totaled a record 14.4 million metric tons, valued at $6.7 billion. This volume was up 10 percent from the prior year and 17 percent higher than the five-year average. The Philippines bought the most soybean meal at 2.6 million metric tons during the marketing year, valued at $6.7 billion. Mexico and Canada were second and third, respectively. Demand is rising in other countries, including Vietnam, where purchases rose 110 percent to almost 744,000 metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 11, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index for November at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including Ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST ERS Feed Grains Database update at 11 a.m. CST Weather A strong cold front is pushing through the Corn Belt on Wednesday. It is not producing much precipitation, but the cold air funneling in behind it is significant and enough to squeeze out some light snow and turn on the lake-effect snow machine later Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 10, 2024 |
USDA Begins National Milk Testing Strategy for H5N1 The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced the start of its National Milk Testing Strategy to address H5N1 infections in U.S. dairy herds. The measure builds on steps already taken by USDA and its federal and state partners since H5N1 was first round in dairy cattle in March 2024. The Federal Order and guidance requires that unpasteurized milk samples nationwide be shared with USDA for testing. The guidance was developed with significant input from state, veterinary, and public health officials and will facilitate comprehensive H5N1 surveillance of the nation’s milk supply and dairy herds. The new Federal Order requires sharing raw milk samples upon request from any entity responsible for a dairy farm, such as a milk transporter, transfer station, or processing facility. Second, it requires owners with positive cattle to provide information that enables contact tracing. Finally, it requires labs and veterinarians to report positive tests to USDA. *********************************************************************************** EU Reaches Significant Trade Agreement Late last week, the European Union reached an agreement with Brazil, Argentina, and the three other nations that make up the Mercosur trade alliance. Even as France says it will push the controversial trade deal off course, the agreement ends 25 years’ worth of negotiations. The deal will create one of the world’s largest free trade zones if it gets approved. The free trade zone would cover a market of 780 million people who represent nearly a quarter of the global gross domestic product. However, critics in France, the Netherlands, and other countries with big dairy and beef industries say the pact would subject their farmers to unfair competition and lead to environmental damage. Proponents say the agreement would save businesses approximately $4.26 billion in duties each year, cut red tape delays, and remove tariffs on a large variety of products. Uruguay officials hail the agreement as a truly historic milestone. *********************************************************************************** October Red Meat Export Pace Above 2023 Levels U.S. beef and pork exports posted year-over-year increases in October. That’s according to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Beef exports during October totaled 105,269 metric tons, up one percent from last year, while the value jumped three percent to $860.4 million. From January through October, beef export value was four percent higher than last year at $8.68 billion despite a two percent drop in volume to 1.066 million metric tons. Pork exports reached 252,411 metric tons during the month, three percent higher than last year, while value also rose three percent to $710.4 million. Through the first ten months of 2024, pork exports rose five percent from a year ago to 2.49 million metric tons, valued at $7.07 billion, six percent above 2023. For the year, pork exports are projected to pass three million metric tons for the first time, exceeding 2020’s volume record of 2.98 million. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Endorsed Tax Relief Passes Senate The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thanked the Senate for passing the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act last week. In addition to providing much-needed relief to victims of hurricanes, this legislation provides tax relief for cattle producers who received payments due to wildfires. Those payments were counted as taxable income, meaning producers who already suffered from disasters were hurt again by having their relief payments taxed. “It only adds to the pain of destruction when the payments meant to help you recover come with a tax bill,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “With the devastating hurricanes and wildfires the cattle industry suffered over the past several years, helping producers stay in business is NCBA’s top priority.” The Act addresses limitations in casualty losses and allows producers to take greater deductions for disaster-related losses. The bill passed in the House, so it heads to the president’s desk for a signature. *********************************************************************************** USB Investments Yield an Impressive Return The United Soybean Board continues to deliver economic returns to U.S. soybean farmers through strategic investment. That’s despite a challenging economic landscape of low commodity prices and tight margins. This remains critical to ensure farmers receive measurable value on-farm and through expanded opportunities. A recent study confirms the soy checkoff’s positive return of at least 4.5-1 on investment across the categories of export market development, domestic demand-enhancing research, on-farm production research, and soybean promotion. Cumulatively, soy-checkoff-funded initiatives at the national and state level supported almost 31,000 jobs, added $2.6 billion in labor income, contributed $5.9 billion in total value, and increased the U.S. GDP by $9.8 billion. “We focus on maximizing the impact of every dollar invested by creating new revenue streams for farmers, building premium markets, and establishing partnerships here and abroad where farmers can see tangible returns,” says Phillip Good, USB’s Chair of the Audit Committee. *********************************************************************************** USGC Issues Corn Harvest Quality Report The U.S. Grains Council’s 2024-2025 Corn Harvest Quality Report says the 2024 U.S. corn crop is projected to be the third largest on record with the highest 100-kernel weight in the history of the report. The 2024 crop also has lower broken corn and foreign material (BCFM), lower total damage, and lower moisture than in the last five years. Favorable growing season conditions contributed to the highest projected average yield on record and promoted good grain quality. The report showed that 89.2 percent of the 620 yellow corn samples taken from the top 12 corn-producing states in the country met all the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade, and 96.2 percent met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 2 grade corn. A test weight of 59.8 pounds per bushel is the largest test weight in the history of this report. The average U.S. aggregate BCFM in 2024 was 0.6 percent
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 10, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Productivity and Cost Report at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA December World Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report at 11 a.m. CST Weather A front and system is reorganizing in the Southeast on Tuesday, which will spread showers northeast throughout the rest of the day. An arctic cold front is pushing through the Canadian Prairies and will move through the Northern Plains later Tuesday, ushering in a rush of cold, arctic air that will spread through the Corn Belt and Northeast over the next couple of days.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 9, 2024 |
Corn Sales for Export Surge, Soybean Sales Decline Sales of corn to overseas buyers jumped week to week while soybean sales declined, according to the Ag Department. Corn sales in the seven days that ended on Nov. 28 jumped to 1.73 million metric tons, up 63% from the previous week and 4% from the prior four-week average, the agency said. Mexico was the big buyer at 392,400 metric tons, followed by Japan at 357,700 tons and an unnamed country at 283,600 tons. South Korea was in for 212,700 tons and Costa Rica bought 84,200 tons. The total would’ve been higher, but Guatemala canceled orders for 27,700 tons. Exports for the week rose 3% to 1.05 million tons, USDA said. Soybean sales fell 7% week over week to 2.31 million metric tons, the government said. That’s still up 17% from the average for this time of year. *********************************************************************************** One Mutation Could Make H5N1 a Greater Threat, Researchers Say While there has been no sign of person-to-person spread of bird flu, researchers now say that a single mutation in the H5N1 avian influenza virus could enhance the virus’ ability to attach to human cells. That could potentially increase the possibility of transmission among humans, according to a study led by a team of scientists at the Scripps Research Institute. These findings highlight the need for continuous surveillance of emerging mutations in avian and bovine clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses, said the study, published in the journal Science. An editor’s summary attached to the study indicated in nature, the occurrence of this single mutation could be an indicator of a human pandemic risk. Public health officials say genomic analysis of the H5N1 virus have found no changes that would make the virus more communicable among humans. They say the risk to the general public is low. *********************************************************************************** Water Resource Development Act Passed Every two years and authorizes the improvement and maintenance of our nation’s inland waterways, ports, and flood and storm protection via the Water Resource Development Act (WRDA). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the designated federal agency responsible for the implementation of WRDA legislation. If passed by both the House and the Senate, it will continue the track record of Congress passing a biennial WRDA since 2014. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 48% of U.S. soybean exports are transported by barge – primarily to export terminals along the lower Mississippi River. Barge transportation is one of predominant reasons U.S. soybean farmers are so competitive in the international marketplace. Investing in the inland waterway system and ports is simultaneously an investment in the success of soybean farmers. One barge is capable of transporting up to 57,000 bushels of soybeans – the equivalent of 62 semi-trucks. A typical 15 barge tow can therefore transport up to 855,000 bushels – the equivalent of 940 semi-trucks. *********************************************************************************** Clemson University Breaks Ground on New Vet School Clemson University officials and state leaders have broken ground on the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a historic moment for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina as the only college of veterinary medicine in the state continues to take shape. The new facilities are named in honor of State Senator Harvey Peeler. “Senator Peeler has passionately supported the development of a college of veterinary medicine for more than 20 years, and his efforts throughout the process have been instrumental in developing this new college at Clemson,” Clemson Board Chair Kim Wilkerson said. “In recognition of his contributions to this historic development for Clemson and the entire state, our board is excited to name this new college in his honor.” Peeler, the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a cattle farmer in his hometown of Gaffney, said he has experienced firsthand the need for large and small animal veterinarians in the state. *********************************************************************************** Republican Governors Write to Congressional Leadership about Farm Bill Republican governors have written Congress on the urgent need to update the 2018 Farm Bill. In the letter, the state leaders emphasized how the agriculture industry has experienced high inflation, high input costs, high interest rates, catastrophic weather events, natural disasters, regulatory uncertainty, and a growing agricultural trade deficit. High inflation has significantly increased the costs of essentials like seed, fertilizer, and fuel, with some input prices rising over 30% in just the past year. Unprecedented droughts, fire, floods, and hurricanes have devastated crops and livestock across the country. Elevated interest rates are making it more difficult for farmers to secure the financing they need for operations, while supply chain disruptions continue to hinder access to critical resources. American farmers and ranchers are the most productive, effective, and efficient producers, with each farm, on average, feeding 150 people globally. In the vast majority of states throughout the country, agriculture serves as the largest industry. Farmers and ranchers serve as the best stewards of our land, preserving our natural resources for generations to come, ensuring rural communities continue to thrive. Farmers are projected to lose up to $35 billion in lost profit this year alone. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Enhance Support for Farmers with Increased Replant Payments USDA is bolstering support for farmers facing crop setbacks by announcing an increase in replant payments for most producers beginning with the 2026 crop year. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to farmers who need to replant insured crops damaged by early insurable causes of loss. The enhancement in replant payments underscores the Risk Management Agency’s commitment to sustain agricultural productivity and economic stability. Replant payments assist farmers with the financial burden of replanting, offering them a pathway to recover more than the insurance indemnity alone potentially would provide. Replant payment factors have not been updated since they were established in the 1990s. RMA reviewed replant payment factors to ensure they reflect current replanting costs. The agency determined most small grains and coarse grains crops will receive a significant increase. RMA will consider future updates based on new data, further analysis, and stakeholder feedback from these changes.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 9, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Traders await Tuesday's WASDE, Crop Production reports. Weather A two-part system is moving through the U.S. on Monday. The first part is among some warmer air in the East, bringing scattered rain showers. The second piece has some colder air with it and is producing some light snow and breezy winds across the north.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 6, 2024 |
Cattlemen Relieved by Court Decision The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hailed a nationwide preliminary injunction blocking the Corporate Transparency Act from being enforced on January 1, 2025. The ruling from the East Texas U.S. District Court protects millions of family farmers and ranchers from onerous reporting requirements imposed by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, a division of the Treasury Department. “The CTA requires millions of family farmers and ranchers to file complex paperwork and disclose beneficial ownership information with the federal government under penalty of severe fines and jail time,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Cattle producers are relieved that this mandate is on hold while the law is being considered by the courts.” The injunction prevents the CTA from taking effect until the outcome of a case brought by a Texas small business that challenged the legality of the Corporate Transparency Act. “We’ll be working with Congress on a solution,” he added. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Expanding Broadband Access Passes Senate Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced their “Access to Capital Creates Economic Strength and Supports Rural America Act” unanimously passed in the Senate. The ACCESS Act expands rural broadband access by easing the burden of regulatory costs for smaller broadband providers that rural communities rely on. Baldwin says access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury. “It’s a necessity for rural Americans to work, attend school, run their businesses, manage their farms, and connect with people around the world,” she said. “For too long, small providers, often in rural areas, get caught up in burdensome regulations, which stopped them from reaching more people.” The legislation provides regulatory relief to rural telecommunications service providers by allowing them to submit streamlined financial reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of the NTCA – the Rural Broadband Association, thanked them for getting the bill through the Senate. *********************************************************************************** USDA Increasing Replant Payments USDA is boosting support for farmers facing crop setbacks by announcing an increase in replant payments for most producers beginning with the 2026 crop year. This initiative will provide financial assistance to farmers who need to replant insured crops damaged by early insurable causes of loss. “The enhancement in replant payments underscores the Risk Management Agency’s commitment to sustain agricultural productivity and economic stability,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Replant payments assist farmers with the financial burden of replanting, offering them a pathway to recover more than the insurance indemnity alone potentially would provide.” Replant payment factors have not been updated since they were established in the 1990s. RMA reviewed replant payment factors to ensure they reflect current replanting costs. The agency determined most small grains and coarse grains crops will receive a significant increase. RMA will announce the new replant payments with additional crop insurance improvements in the summer of 2025. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Down From a Record High The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output fell from a record high while inventories increased in the seven days ending on November 29. Production declined to an average of 1.073 million barrels a day last week. The agency says that’s down from a record 1.119 million the previous week and was the lowest level since October 11. In the Midwest, output averaged 1.014 million barrels a day, down from 1.048 million the week prior and the lowest in the region since October 18. Gulf Coast production plunged to an average of 22,000 barrels a day from 34,000 barrels the prior week. East Coast output held steady during the week at 12,000 barrels a day, and Rocky Mountain production was steady at 15,000 barrels a day. The only rising output was on the West Coast, averaging 10,000 barrels a day, up from 9,000 the previous week. Inventories rose to 23.003 million barrels. *********************************************************************************** Deere Announces More Iowa Layoffs John Deere has another round of layoffs scheduled at its plant in Iowa. The facility in Waterloo Works, Iowa, is the company’s largest plant. The state’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, website says the company will lay off more than 100 workers effective on January 5, 2025. It’s the sixth round of layoffs by Deere in Waterloo, Iowa, a focal point for tractor manufacturing. It’s cut a total of more than 1,000 workers as farm income projections for 2025 lag, depressing demand for new equipment. Deere’s Waterloo operation currently has 4,700 total employees, with about 2,700 working in production and maintenance jobs, according to the company. “As we recently said in our fourth-quarter earnings report, difficult market conditions will result in lower demand for our equipment, with net income down $3 billion in fiscal year 2024,” says Deere. “We need to continue making adjustments to remain globally competitive.” *********************************************************************************** Virus Making Things Difficult in U.S. Poultry South Dakota State University researchers are working to develop a vaccine for a new strain of a highly contagious disease that’s hitting the U.S. poultry industry. Avian metapneumovirus (meta-new-mo-virus), or aMPV, is an upper respiratory tract viral infection that affects all types of poultry but is most harmful to turkeys. The virus is divided into four subgroups, including A, B, C, or D. The U.S. had previously experienced outbreaks in subgroup C. Last January, an SDSU research team identified the first known instance of aMPV subgroup B after testing a sample from an outbreak in a North Carolina turkey flock. The news of a subgroup B outbreak was a shock to America’s $67 billion poultry industry. Four months after identifying the virus, it’s spread to all of the major poultry-producing regions in the U.S. Reports from Minnesota, the country’s largest turkey producer, include egg shortages and thousands of dead birds.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 5, 2024 |
Texas Court Strikes Down Corporate Transparency Act A Texas federal court halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act’s beneficial ownership reporting requirements that included America’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. The court held the CTA as likely unconstitutional, so it issued a preliminary injunction barring the government from enforcing the Act and its reporting requirements against anyone. Before the ruling, small businesses that met certain criteria would have had to file reports with the Treasury Department by January 1, 2025, or risk fines and criminal penalties. The preliminary relief will remain in effect until the conclusion of legal proceedings, at which point the court may enter a permanent injunction. In the meantime, the government is expected to appeal the preliminary injunction. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says unless and until an appellate court overrules or narrows the injunction, no businesses are obligated to comply with the reporting requirements. Congress enacted the CTA on January 1, 2021. *********************************************************************************** Farm Income Forecast Shows Trouble for U.S. Agriculture The USDA’s release of the 2024 Farm Sector Income Forecast shows lower income for U.S. farmers and ranchers. House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) and Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) say the income update underscores what Ag Committee Republicans in the House and Senate have been warning about for two years. “America’s farmers and ranchers are in serious trouble, and the outlook remains grim,” they said in a statement. “From 2023 to today, row crop producers alone have lost more than $50 billion and stand to lose even more next year.” They also stressed that immediate action is required to stabilize the farm economy and prevent a crisis that will only get more expensive to address over time. “Reauthorizing a five-year farm bill with significant improvements to the safety net is critical to restore certainty for our producers,” they added. “Farmers and ranchers deserve better.” *********************************************************************************** Court Halts GE Crop Introductions without Oversight Activist groups called it a “precedential victory” for food and environmental safety when a federal district court ruled that genetically engineered organisms must be regulated. The ruling overturns the 2020 rule overhaul by the first Trump administration that eliminated most government oversight over GE crops, trees, and grasses. “This is a victory on behalf of farmers, the planet, and scientific integrity,” says George Kimbrel, legal director for the lead plaintiff Center for Food Safety. “USDA tried to hand over its job to Monsanto and the pesticide industry and the Court held that capitulation contrary to both law and science.” The plaintiffs say the ruling is a sharp rebuke of the Trump administration to almost eliminate oversight of all GE technology. The plaintiffs in the case included the National Family Farm Coalition, Friends of the Earth, the Pesticide Action Network, and several others. All were represented by the Center for Food Safety. *********************************************************************************** USDA, FDA Looking at Clarification of Food Labeling The Food and Drug Administration and the USDA announced a joint request for information about food date labeling, which includes the use of terms like “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By.” The information request asks for data on industry practices and preferences for date labeling, research results on consumer perceptions of date labeling and any impact date labeling may have on food waste and grocery costs. “Confusion over a multitude of different date labeling terms on food products accounts for about 20 percent of food waste in the home,” says FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones. “We look forward to gathering information to determine how date labeling can make it easier for consumers to know whether a food is still good to eat and avoid food waste.” Both agencies currently recommend that food industry members voluntarily apply the “Best if Used By” quality-based food date label. *********************************************************************************** Administration Won’t Finalize 45Z Guidance Biden administration officials won’t finalize guidelines on new clean fuel production tax credits intended for the airline and biofuel industries before the officials leave office in January. Three sources told Reuters that casts significant doubt on the future of a key piece of the president’s climate goals. The tax credit was due to take effect on January 1, 2025, but a lack of detailed guidance from the Treasury Department would make the program dormant. The credit initially was supposed to help drive the production of three billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuels by 2030. Air travel contributes 2.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, which makes it a big part of U.S. climate policy. The Treasury Department still says it will issue the needed guidance before January 20 that will enable producers to access that credit during the new year. Biofuel companies wanted a finalized program in place by that date. *********************************************************************************** Tyson, Cargill Announce Layoffs A company letter released this week by the state of Minnesota says Cargill will permanently terminate almost 500 employees in the state, which is home to the company’s corporate headquarters. The terminations will begin on February 5. Cargill recently announced it would cut approximately five percent of its overall staff after revenue took a hit in its most recent fiscal year thanks to a big slump in crop prices. Also, Tyson Foods announced the closure of its Kansas Meat Plant. Over 800 employees will lose their jobs in Emporia, Kansas, as the company closes its marinated proteins and ground beef plant. Farm Policy News says Tyson has notified the state of Kansas in a recent letter. “After careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to close our beef and pork non-harvest processing facility in Kansas to help increase our operational efficiency,” says a Tyson spokesperson. “We understand the difficulty this presents.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 4, 2024 |
Farmer Sentiment Highest Since 2021 Farmer sentiment jumped again in November as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 30 points to 145. That’s the highest level of farmer optimism since May 2021. The Future Expectations index saw the largest jump, rising 37 points to 1161, while the Current Conditions Index increased 18 points to 113. The November sentiment boost reflects growing optimism about a more favorable regulatory and tax environment for agriculture following the November election. Optimism about the overall U.S. ag sector also surged as 34 percent of farmers anticipate good times financially in the next 12 months, more than double the October rate. The improving sentiment carried over to their investment outlook. The Farm Capital Investment Index rose 13 points in November to 55, which was the highest level since May 2021. The Short and Long-Term Farmland Value Expectation Indexes dropped by five and three points, respectively, but both remain strong. *********************************************************************************** Farm Sector Profits Forecast to Fall in 2024 Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast at $149.7 billion in calendar year 2024, down by $6 billion, or 4.1 percent, relative to 2023. Inflation-adjusted farm income is forecast to drop by $9.5 billion, or 6.3 percent. Despite the predicted decline, net farm income in 2024 would be 16 percent above the 20-year average of $121.4 billion. Cash receipts from the sale of agricultural commodities are forecast to decrease by $4 billion (0.8 percent) from 2023 to $516.9 billion in 2024. Total crop receipts are expected to drop by $25 billion, or nine percent, from 2023, led by lower receipts for corn and soybeans. Direct government payments are forecast to fall by $1.7 billion (13.6 percent) from 2023 to $10.6 billion in 2024. Total animal product receipts are expected to increase by $21 billion (8.4 percent) following increases in the receipts for cattle, calves, eggs, milk, broilers, and hogs. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill and Disaster Help on the Table in Congress? Some lawmakers in the lame-duck session of Congress want to include specific provisions to help commodity farmers who weren’t hit by a disaster in any potential disaster aid packages. Farm Policy News says while many farmers weren’t hit by disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, they have experienced significant price decreases for their commodities. Congress also has to deal with another potential shutdown and is said to be looking at another short-term extension that would put most major funding decisions into Fiscal Year 2025 for the new Congress and President-elect Donald Trump. Some of the House Republican leadership plans to attach a one-year extension of the farm bill to the Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded. Reports say there is also a chance they’ll add the farm bill to an annual defense authorization bill, which is also a must-pass package to handle this month, but most lean toward the CR. *********************************************************************************** Rural Broadband Association Pleased with Supreme Court Decision NTCA, the Rural Broadband Association, was pleased that the Supreme Court announced it would review a decision from the Fifth Circuit Appeals Court regarding the federal Universal Service Fund. Specifically, the nation’s highest court will look into the constitutionality of the mechanism for contributions to the Universal Service Fund. “The Fifth Circuit Court’s decision is contrary to Supreme Court precedent and the decision of several other appeals courts, and it threatens to undermine valuable universal service programs,” the NCTA says. “For many decades, those programs have served to promote the availability and affordability of critical communications service for millions of rural and low-income consumers, rural health care facilities, and schools across the nation.” The association will present arguments in defense of the USF contribution mechanism as the case moves forward and ultimately dispels the uncertainty that these challenges have created in furthering the nation’s mission of universal service. *********************************************************************************** EPA Rule Would Revoke Most Uses of Insecticide The Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed rule to revoke tolerances for chlorpyrifos, which establishes the amount of a pesticide that’s allowed on food. This rule revokes all tolerances for chlorpyrifos, except for those tolerances associated with the 11 food and feed crops that would remain registered. EPA says it’s taking this action in response to a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. “EPA continues to prioritize the health of children,” says Michal Freedhoff of the EPA. “This proposed rule is a critical step forward as we work to reduce chlorpyrifos in or on food and to better protect people, including infants and children, from exposure to chemicals that are harmful to human health.” Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide that was used in a large variety of ways in agriculture, including soybeans, fruit and nut trees, vegetables, and other row crops, as well as many non-food uses. *********************************************************************************** Upper Mississippi River Navigation Closes for the Year The Army Corps of Engineers in the St. Paul, Minnesota, District, saw the last barge of the year depart Lock and Dam 2 on December 1, ending the 2024 navigation season on the Upper Mississippi River. Traditionally, the last tow departing Minnesota’s capital city heading south of Lock and Dam 2, near Hastings, Minnesota, has marked the unofficial end to the navigation season. The last tow to leave St. Paul usually occurs around the last week of November or the first week of December. As they close down the 2024 navigation season, St. Paul District staff are busy this winter with maintenance projects scheduled at Locks and Dams 7 and 9 for miter gate anchorage bar replacement, Lock and Dam 2 for guide wall repairs, and Locks and Dams 5 and 5A for gate maintenance. The district maintains a nine-foot navigation channel and 13 locks and dams from Minneapolis to Guttenberg, Iowa.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 4, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets ISM Services and Factory Orders at 9 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report incl. ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Fed Chair Jerome Powell press conference at 12:40 p.m. CST Weather A big clipper system is moving through Ontario on Wednesday, bringing light to moderate snow across the northern Great Lakes into the Northeast. A rush of cold air will be flowing in behind it. Strong winds will usher in that colder air today and bring about some streaks of light snow for the Midwest. A small system is bringing scattered showers to the Gulf Coast as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 3, 2024 |
Economists Forecast a Drop in Land Prices Lower returns to rented land and higher interest rates began signaling the potential for falling farmland prices in 2023. Farmdoc from the University of Illinois says those signals are continuing, with the current fundamentals suggesting land value reductions of approximately three percent in 2025. A three percent drop would be in line with observed adjustments since the 1980s as well as expectations from professional farm managers who were surveyed this year. On the other hand, there are valid arguments supporting continued strength in farmland prices. For example, the average cash rent in Illinois was $269 per acre in 2024, an increase of ten dollars an acre, or 3.9 percent, from 2023. Average Illinois cash rents have risen by 21 percent since 2020 after a period of relative stability from 2015 to 2020. The average Illinois land values this year followed the same trend, rising almost three percent (2.7) from 2023. *********************************************************************************** Trade Mission to Morocco Underway Daniel Whitley, the administrator of the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, arrived in Casablanca to begin a USDA-sponsored trade mission. He’s leading a delegation of almost 50 U.S. agribusinesses and trade groups and 14 state ag departments to expand U.S. farm and food exports to Morocco and other West African markets. Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. U.S. sales of farm and food products to the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of all American exports to the continent. American agricultural exports to Morocco have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 2006. “I’m honored to lead the delegation to Casablanca as we work together to strengthen our vital connections,” Whitley said. The country offers a stable market and growing economy, and it serves as a key distribution hub for the African continent and is a major importer of bulk commodities. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Sustainability Alliance Highlights Progress The 2024 Fall Meeting of the Dairy Sustainability Alliance emphasized the industry’s collective efforts to meet sustainability targets. The Alliance says the industry will accomplish its goals through adopting new technologies, best practices, and measurement tools. The meeting brought together more than 350 representatives from the dairy value chain, including nearly 40 dairy farmers, to collaborate on advancing sustainability across the industry. The Alliance is a multi-stakeholder initiative led by the checkoff-funded Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. Presentation topics during the meeting included shopper attitudes around sustainability, the FARM environmental stewardship program, the dairy conservation navigator platform, and many others. “U.S. dairy is truly walking the walk with significant progress to celebrate and by continuing to learn as there’s more work to do,” says Sarah Hanson, executive lead for the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. “We will continue building our collective knowledge, navigating challenges, and providing solutions for our producers.” *********************************************************************************** Consumer Institute Advocates for AM Radio The American Consumers Institute is the latest organization to voice strong support for the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Nate Scherer, policy analyst for the group, says AM radio is vital for ensuring public safety and maintaining access to vital information for millions of Americans. More than 80 million Americans rely on AM radio each month for programming that includes weather updates, traffic reports, sports, spiritual content, and emergency alerts. “Policymakers must recognize the irreplaceable benefits of AM radio,” Scherer says. “This isn’t about nostalgia or entertainment, but about public safety and ensuring that all Americans, especially those in underserved communities, have access to vital information.” The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act has significant support, with 262 co-sponsors in the House and a supermajority in the Senate. If the bill doesn’t pass in this Congress, which ends in early January, it starts all over in the next session. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Sheep Producers Heading to New Zealand The University of Wyoming Sheep Program recently announced the “Sheep Innovation Exchange: Wyoming to New Zealand.” This international program gives Wyoming sheep producers and industry entrepreneurs a chance to gain fresh insights by engaging with global peers who face similar challenges. Exchange participants will travel to New Zealand to explore the country’s renowned sheep industry. For five days, they’ll tour essential industry sites like genetic improvement facilities and value-added lamb and wool marketing operations. “Sometimes, gaining a fresh perspective on challenges and opportunities requires connecting with people who face similar circumstances in other parts of the world,” says Whit Stewart, UW Extension Sheep Specialist. “We intend to foster new ideas and strengthen the future of Wyoming’s sheep industry.” The Sheep Innovators Exchange will take place from July 12-18, 2025. Participants must arrive in New Zealand by July 12, and programmed events begin on July 14. Go to uwagnews.com for information. *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Support Ag Career Pipeline Farm Foundation and the National 4-H Council recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a focus on collaboration in leadership, education, and youth workforce readiness for young people. The two organizations will align on career exploration, leadership training, and skill-building opportunities for youth through the Farm Foundation’s Next Generation programs and 4-H’s recently launched Beyond Ready Initiative. This collaboration will help strengthen young learners’ interest in food and agriculture career pathways as early as elementary school. Additionally, it will help create a ready pipeline of future leaders as they graduate high school and college. “The extended partnership with Farm Foundation further strengthens our ability to prepare young people for success in agriculture, food science, and beyond,” says Jill Bramble, president and CEO of the National 4-H Council. “Our collaboration will equip youth with the leadership, skills, and confidence they need to be Beyond Ready for the workforce of tomorrow.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 3, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets No major Ag reports, but the ERS will release its highlights from their December 2024 Farm Income Forecast at 10 a.m. CST It is also slated to be a quiet day for major economic reports, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release its Job Openings report at 9 a.m. CST Weather Relatively quiet conditions are noted for most of the U.S. for Tuesday. However, cold air moving across the Great Lakes continues the lake-effect snow from last week. A clipper building in the Canadian Prairies will graze northern areas of the country with some snow Tuesday and Wednesday as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 2, 2024 |
Mexico Threatens Retaliatory Tariffs After U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to impose 25 percent import duties on Mexican goods, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico could retaliate with its own tariffs. Trump says the tariff on Mexican imports will go into effect if the flow of drugs and migrants across the border doesn’t stop. While Sheinbaum says she’s willing to engage in talks on the issues Trump mentioned, she called drugs a “U.S. problem.” Farm Policy News says Sheinbaum’s response was, “One tariff followed by another in response, and so on until we put at risk common businesses.” What she’s referring to are businesses like U.S. automakers that have plants on both sides of the border. However, retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods often target the agriculture and food industry, which Mexico did in 2018 in the lead-up to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. Canada and Mexico are also significant exporters of agricultural goods to America. *********************************************************************************** Kentucky Judge Blocks H-2A Worker Protection Rules A federal judge issued an injunction against the Biden administration’s expanded protections for farmers in the U.S. under the H-2A program. The injunction, issued by a U.S. District Judge in Kentucky, applies in Ohio, West Virginia, Alabama, and Kentucky. Plaintiffs in the case argued that the Department of Labor rules would allow foreign workers to unionize. The American Farm Bureau and partners were also issued a preliminary injunction by the U.S. District Court in Mississippi, preventing the DOL from enforcing its Workers Protection Rule. “Farmers appreciate the men and women who choose to work on their farms, and they take seriously the responsibility of ensuring a safe workplace,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “While workers should be treated fairly and respectfully, we also believe the DOL rule was overly broad to the point of being unlawful.” The AFBF’s lawsuit was the first to stop key aspects of the rule for all farmers. *********************************************************************************** Seminar Helps Exporters Navigate the Cuban Market U.S. red meat exports are growing in Cuba due in part to an expansion of private-sector buying. To help exporters capitalize on the opportunity, the U.S. Meat Export Federation held an educational seminar in Miami, bringing exporters and buyers together to learn more about conducting business in Cuba. Paul Johnson of FocusCuba, a consulting firm that helps U.S. companies interested in the Cuban market, says much of the interest from Cuban buyers is for U.S. pork due to a sharp decline in Cuba’s domestic pork production. Opportunities for U.S. ag exporters are expanding because they now have access to more buyers rather than working through Cuba’s government procurement agency. Through September, U.S. pork exports to Cuba totaled 5,843 metric tons, up 322 percent from the same period last year, and up 236 percent to a value of $17.2 million. Beef exports through September are up 1,500 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** Trump Selects Nominee for U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is President-elect Trump’s nominee for U.S. Trade Representative. Greer was an aide in the office during Trump’s first term and will help steer the incoming president’s trade agenda. A graduate of the University of Virginia’s Law School, Greer was chief of staff to Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. Trade Rep during Trump’s first term in office. The goal for the new U.S. Trade Rep will be to focus the office on reigning in the country’s massive trade deficit, defending American manufacturing, agriculture, and services, and opening up export markets everywhere. “Jamieson played a key role during my first term in imposing tariffs on China and others to combat unfair trade practices and replacing the failed NAFTA deal with USMCA,” Trump said. The Hill says the selection came a day after Trump said he would impose new tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China on his first day in office. *********************************************************************************** AccuWeather Estimates $500 Billion in Hurricane Damage As the record-shattering hurricane season ends, AccuWeather experts estimate that the five hurricanes and one unnamed tropical storm that made landfall in the U.S. caused an estimated $500 billion in total damage and economic loss. “The 2024 hurricane season was explosive and will be remembered for shattering records and causing approximately half a trillion dollars in total damage,” says Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “For perspective, this would equate to almost two percent of the nation’s gross domestic product.” More than 230 deaths have been directly linked to tropical storm and hurricane impacts in the U.S. this year. AccuWeather’s estimates include impacts like long-term medical costs, job and wage losses, crop losses, infrastructure damage, business and supply chain disruptions, and many other impacts that most projections don’t account for. Hurricane Helene was the most costly as AccuWeather’s damage and economic loss estimate in the United States was between $225 and $250 billion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Revenue Protection Options Flax producers can now benefit from revenue protection, a crop insurance option available through the USDA. The Risk Management Agency expanded the Small Grains Crop Provisions to now offer revenue protection for flax for the 2025 crop year, an option already offered for barley, rye, wheat, and oats. “Expanding revenue protection for flax producers represents a critical step in strengthening the safety net,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “By ensuring that flax farmers have access to revenue-based insurance, we provide them with a more reliable tool to manage both market fluctuations and unexpected challenges.” RMA is also continuing to expand crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers by allowing enterprise units by organic farming practices, adding enterprise unit eligibility for several crops, and making additional policy updates. Also, the agency expanded the availability of enterprise units by organic farming practices to sugar beets, onions, popcorn, and processing beans.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 2, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets ISM Manufacturing Index at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST U.S. Grain/Oilseed Crushings and Co-Products Report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Delayed Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A clipper continues to move through the Midwest Monday morning, with snow bands from Iowa to the Ohio Valley into the afternoon. Cold air blowing over the Great Lakes continues the heavy lake-effect snows southeast of the Lakes as well. Another band of snow is developing in the Canadian Prairies as another clipper is forming.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 27, 2024 |
U.S. Trade Partners Quick to Criticize Trump’s Tariff Declaration Officials in China, Mexico and Canada criticized Tuesday a pledge made by President-elect Donald Trump on social media to impose new tariffs on all three of the United States' largest trading partners on the first day of his presidency. Trump said the move, which appears to violate the terms of a free-trade deal Trump signed into law in 2020, is aimed at clamping down on drugs − fentanyl especially − and migrants crossing into the U.S. illegally. A tariff is effectively a tax imposed by one country on the goods and services imported from another country. Oil is the top U.S. import from Canada. The largest category of goods imported to the U.S. from Mexico is cars and components for cars. The U.S. imports a significant amount of electronics from China. Some goods are exempt from tariffs because of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Halts Mexico Cattle Imports after New World Screwworm Detected The United States has paused imports of cattle from Mexico after a positive detection of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating pest that can be fatal to animals and in some cases humans. Authorities identified an infected cow at a livestock inspection checkpoint close to the border of Guatemala. Given the northward movement of screwworm, USDA said it is “restricting the importation of animal commodities,” including live cattle and bison, that originated or were transported through Mexico, effective immediately. The suspension of Mexican cattle could affect U.S. beef production and prices. The pest, which gets its name from the way it burrows into wounds like a screw, last appeared in Florida in 2016 and marked the first U.S. outbreak in decades. The U.S. has relied on live cattle imports from Canada and Mexico to fill in the gaps from years of herd declines. *********************************************************************************** Soy Transportation Coalition Elects Officers During Annual Meeting The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) elected its officers during the organization’s annual meeting in Mobile, Alabama, on November 21, 2024. During the annual meeting, Mike Koehne of Greensburg, Indiana, was elected chairman. Koehne previously served as the STC secretary-treasurer from 2023-2024. He and his wife, Jill, have four children. Koehne also currently serves on the board of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, the American Soybean Association, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council. Raylen Phelon, a soybean, corn, wheat, cattle, and hay farmer from Melvern, Kansas, was elected vice chairman. Phelon and his wife, Karen, have three children. Phelon also serves as vice chairman on the Kansas Soybean Commission. C.J. Chalfant, a soybean and corn farmer from Hartford City, Indiana, was elected secretary-treasurer. He and his wife, Abbey, have two children. Chalfant also serves as a director on the Indiana Soybean Alliance. *********************************************************************************** Pork Exports to Dominican Republic Surging U.S. pork exports to the Dominican Republic could reach a record high as African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks continue across the country. Researchers are expecting “increased export opportunities” for U.S. pork and pork products to the Caribbean nation, according to USDA, with local production declining as a result of increased disease outbreaks. While U.S. pork exports to the Dominican Republic are set to hit another record in 2024 after reaching 96,010 metric tons last year, increased competition from Brazil could influence how much the country imports moving forward. With local pork production in the Dominican Republic declining, imports have reached record levels since 2021. Pork imports totaled 101,324 metric tons last year compared to 40,084 in 2020. The U.S. is the Dominican Republic’s largest supplier of pork, averaging about 94% of the country’s pork imports. ASF, which is highly contagious and deadly to pigs, remains a significant challenge in the Dominican Republic since it was first detected in July 2021. *********************************************************************************** New Products Push Deere to Strong Q4 Earnings Deere & Co. finished the year stronger than expected after aggressively cutting production and seeing solid demand for new tractors and precision agriculture technology. The Moline, Illinois-based tractor giant reported a net profit of $1.3 billion in the fourth quarter compared to $2.4 billion last year as farmers grappled with high interest rates and low commodity prices. Sales and revenue totaled $11.1 billion, down 28% from a year ago. Despite economic challenges, Deere Chairman and CEO John May said in an earnings call that company performance was better than expected, which led to strong reinvestment across the enterprise. Josh Beal, Deere’s director of investor relations, said in the call that order books are full for the company’s new high-horsepower 9RX tractor through the fourth quarter of 2025. The company also noted “record adoption” of its technology stack, including hardware, software, data platforms and applications. Executives are bracing for another tough year in terms of demand. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Found in California Raw Milk A California raw milk farm has issued a recall after state health officials detected bird flu in retail samples. The California Department of Public Health has instructed consumers to avoid consuming a single batch of cream top, whole raw milk produced by Raw Farm, LLC. While no illnesses have been reported, retailers have been instructed to pull affected products from their shelves. “Public health experts have long warned consumers against consuming raw milk or raw milk products due to elevated risks of foodborne illness,” California health officials said in a press release. “Raw milk products are not pasteurized, a heating process that kills bacteria and viruses such as bird flu.” In 2023, Raw Farm was linked to a salmonella outbreak that sickened more than 165 people. The U.S. has reported 55 human cases of bird flu since the virus jumped to dairy cows earlier this year. California has reported 29 confirmed human cases of bird flu, the most of any state.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 27, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets 3rd quarter GDP first revision at 7:30 a.m. CST Personal Consumption Expenditures at 8 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A storm system is moving out into the Southern Plains early Wednesday morning and will quickly move east-northeast through the Ohio Valley Wednesday night. Scattered showers are forecast around the system and could be a mix of rain and snow on the northern edge of the storm across the Ohio Valley. Cold air will spread south behind the system tonight and may cause some light snow showers as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 26, 2024 |
Trump Picks Nominee for Secretary of Agriculture President-elect Donald Trump chose Brooke Rollins as his nominee for the next Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins is a graduate of Texas A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture development. She grew up in the small agriculture-centered town of Glen Rose, Texas, while spending years in leadership involvement with FFA and 4-H. “Her commitment to support the American farmer, defense of American food self-sufficiency, and the restoration of agriculture-dependent small towns in America is second to none,” the President-elect said. “As the next Secretary of Agriculture, Brook will spearhead the effort to protect American farmers, who are truly the backbone of our country.” Rollins was on Trump’s 2016 Economic Advisory Council and worked as the Director of the Domestic Public Policy Council. Rollins has also spent the past four years as the Founder and CEO of the American First Policy Institute and America First Works. *********************************************************************************** Agriculture Groups React to Ag Secretary Nominee U.S. agriculture groups reacted to President-elect Donald Trump picking Brooke Rollins as his nominee for Secretary of Agriculture. “Brooke Rollins has fought for Main Street and rural America,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. says, “We’re ready to work on issues of importance to production agriculture, including expanding markets here and overseas for U.S. Corn.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, hopes her rural roots instilled in her the important role that family farmers and ranchers play in supporting the national economy. National Sorghum Producers Chairwoman Amy France says this is an important moment for U.S. agriculture, and they are optimistic about the opportunities her leadership will bring to rural America. “We also look forward to working with the Secretary-designate to support our farmers and rural communities,” says Jack Pettus of the American Sugar Alliance. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Slightly Higher, Egg Production Lower The USDA’s Cattle on Feed Report shows cattle and calves for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with 1,000 head or more capacity totaled 12 million head on November 1, 2024. That inventory was slightly higher than in November 2023. October placements in feedlots totaled 2.29 million head, five percent above last year. Net placements totaled 2.23 million head. Fed cattle marketings during October were 1.85 million head, five percent above 2023. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 head in October. In poultry, U.S. egg production totaled 9.19 billion during October, down four percent from last year. Production included 7.89 billion table eggs. The average number of layers in October was 377 million, down three percent from 2023. October egg production per 100 layers reached 2,438 eggs, down one percent from October 1, 2023. Total egg layers on November 1, 2024, totaled 377 million, down three percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** Syngenta Collaborates with Ducks Unlimited on Conservation The Sustainable and Responsible Business Team at Syngenta announced a collaboration with Ducks Unlimited, highlighting employees’ commitment to conservation in agriculture. In the spring, Syngenta and DU developed a contest for sharing employee stories and recognizing their leadership in conservation. Qualifying employees had the opportunity to showcase a range of products related to their personal, education, on-farm, or operational projects, with the grand prize winner getting two tickets to the “Concert for Conservation in Las Vegas, Nevada, a DU exclusive event. “Our goal is to learn from each other and to motivate staff to share, be involved, and do more, whether they grow crops or not,” says Liz Hunt, head of Syngenta Sustainability for North America. “We know our staffs love the agricultural way of life, nature, and wide-open spaces.” She also says it’s important DU staff realize they’re part of climate and biodiversity solutions too, not just the farmers Syngenta serves every day. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Celebrates the “Beagle Brigade” The National Pork Producers Council celebrated the Senate’s unanimous passage of Senate Bill S.759. It’s known as the “Beagle Brigade Act, and it provides statutory authority and reliable funding for the National Dog Training Center. “American agriculture relies on the National Dog Detector Training Center to prevent the introduction of foreign animal and plant diseases that would cripple our food supply,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “For the pork industry, the ‘Beagle Brigade’ is the first line of defense for keeping threats from foreign animal diseases, like African Swine Fever, out of the United States.” Stevermer also says they appreciate Iowa Senator Joni Ernst and their Senate supporters and urge the House to take this up before the end of the year. The agriculture canine teams of the Customs and Border Protection bolster national security by performing critically important inspections at U.S. ports of entry, and this bill strengthens the program. *********************************************************************************** Mike Spier is the Next President and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates The U.S. Wheat Associates directors elected Mike Spier, vice president of overseas operations, as the export market organization’s next President and CEO. The move becomes official with the retirement of current President and CEO Vince Peterson on July 1, 2025. Spier says he’s honored and humbled to be elected to this position and grateful to the officers and directors for their trust and confidence. “I’m immensely grateful to Vince Peterson, whose vision and dedication have laid a durable foundation for future success,” Spier says. “I look forward to working with my outstanding colleagues, as well as the National Association of Wheat Growers, state wheat commissions, and our industry partners.” Through his career, Spier has gained expertise in grain merchandising, international wheat trading, market analysis, risk management, hedging, coordination, execution, and negotiation of ocean freight contracts. He’s also traveled to more than 50 countries, implementing wheat export market development activities.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 26, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Consumer Confidence Index at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Agricultural Trade Outlook at 2 p.m. CST Weather A system continues to move through the East on Tuesday, but the bigger story is the storm system in the West, where it is producing scattered rain and snow, especially from California to Colorado. This system will move into the Southern Plains on Wednesday and could cause some travel hazards for the Thanksgiving holiday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 25, 2024 |
Farm Labor Costs Continue Climbing The USDA’s Farm Labor Report, released on November 20, offers a glimpse into the future of farm expenses. The Department of Labor uses the “field and livestock workers’ combined” wage rate reported in the November Farm Labor Report to establish most H-2A workers’ minimum wage, known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate. This year, the combined field and livestock worker wage rate nationally is $18.12, up 3.2 percent from the 2023 release. Regional wages increased an average of 4.5 percent, but this reflects wide ranges of change across the country. Fruit and vegetable farmers, the largest users of H-2A, spend 38 percent of their farm expenses on labor, and that share will continue to grow if wages grow as they have in recent years. Rising farmworker wages are a challenge to American specialty crop producers competing with farmers in other countries who can hire at a fraction of the cost. *********************************************************************************** Senators Want Farm Aid Beyond Hurricane Damages Federal officials testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on how they’re dealing with disasters. Farm Policy News says Georgia and North Carolina senators testified about the devastation facing their farmers after Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit those states this Fall. Beyond those disasters, several senators also talked about significant financial losses facing row crop farmers in their states. “Many farmers across the country are on the verge of going out of business due to hurricanes, wildfires, drought, and other weather-related events that wiped out entire crops,” said Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS). “But there are also many farmers across the country on the verge of going out of business due to high input costs and below break-even commodity prices, and they need help too.” She added that for the first time in her career, she’s had lenders and bankers say they weren’t going to be able to help finance farmers in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Release Quarterly Economic Update The National Corn Growers Association’s Economic Update reported on everything from trends to challenges, opportunities, and market conditions in U.S. agriculture. The rapid 2024 harvest gives farmers an edge on any fall field preparations and more time to finalize year-end financial plans, which is critical in the current high-cost and low-price environment. It also looked at the impact of a potential tariff war. A recent study by the NCGA and the American Soybean Association shows a reignited tariff war would limit market access, drop corn prices, and increase overseas market competition for U.S. corn. The report also detailed economic conditions, including government projections showing a drop in net income for farmers. The USDA predicts U.S. real net cash income for the U.S. farm sector will dip 9.6 percent in 2024. The decline follows a 24 percent drop last year. The report is designed to show what’s working and not working in U.S. agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Support Launch of Yogurt-Based Snack The dairy checkoff and General Mills created YoBark, a yogurt-based snack designed to give families a tasty option and expand yogurt’s presence in the snacking category. YoBark is refrigerated and combines the creaminess of yogurt with the crunchy texture of Nature Valley Granola, offering a multi-sensory flavor experience. It’s already available in places like Safeway and Walmart and will reach more retailers in the months ahead. Dairy Management Inc. has been working with General Mills on this concept since 2021, providing consumer insights on why “tweens” (ages 12-13) have decreased their yogurt consumption. DMI also provided new product concept development, package design, and research and development support. “Recognizing this trend, we partnered with General Mills and co-funded research to develop product concepts that would appeal to this demographic,” says Chris Urban, vice president of growth platforms and partnerships for DMI. ‘The lead concept that emerged from the collaboration is YoBark.” *********************************************************************************** South American Corn Production on Different Paths Corn production in South America’s two major agricultural countries will follow two distinct paths during the 2024-2025 crop season. In Brazil, the planted acreage is expected to remain steady, but exports are likely to drop significantly due to intensified competition in the international markets. Conab has increased its estimate for Brazil’s total corn crop to 4.717 million bushels, a 3.6 percent increase from last year. If achieved, this would mark the second-largest harvest in Brazil’s history, trailing only the record in 2022-2023. Field activities are underway for Brazil’s first corn crop. In contrast, Argentina anticipates the largest relative decrease in corn acreage in 17 years, driven by concerns about the potential impact of corn stunt disease, which affected many producers’ yields last season. Farmdoc says Argentina’s corn exports are projected to reach their highest levels since the 2020-2021 season. Argentina’s corn planted area is projected to drop 25 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Members Support Livestock Grazing to Prevent Wildfires Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council testified before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands. Their testimony supported legislation to expand the use of livestock grazing as a tool to reduce wildfire risk, make grazing permits more responsive to range conditions, and remove regulatory barriers to maintaining critical infrastructure. Each bill will work together to protect the beautiful landscapes across the West and support the ranchers who drive the economic success of rural communities. “I see a clear need for the Operational Flexibility Grazing Management Act,” says NCBA member and Utah cattleman Jeff Young. “Resource management shouldn’t be static; it should be responsive and collaborative.” He also says the bill represents an updated, modernized way to manage that land, understanding that you need flexibility to make things work from year to year. Targeted grazing can remove up to 1,000 pounds of wildfire fuel per acre.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 25, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Food Price Outlook at 8 a.m. CST Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Crop Progress Report at 3 p.m. CST Weather A weak system traveling east through the Midwest will produce scattered showers for Monday. Some snow is falling up in the northern Great Lakes area, but most areas will be warm enough for rain. A system off the West Coast will keep that area active Monday as well, bringing the bigger storm system for the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 22, 2024 |
‘Dicamba Cannot be Fixed’: Senate Democrats Push to Keep Weedkiller Banned The EPA is facing renewed pressure to deny applications re-registering the controversial weedkiller from three of the biggest crop protection companies. Three Senate Democrats are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to deny applications to re-register the herbicide dicamba, saying the weedkiller cannot be used without causing unreasonable adverse effects. The herbicide, which was pulled from the market earlier this year, can drift when sprayed and cause irreparable harm to human health, critical habitats and neighboring crops, according to a letter from senators Cory Booker, Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch. Re-registering the herbicide with tighter usage restrictions, as the agency has done in the past, has not been enough to mitigate damage from dicamba, the letter said. The senators reiterate that that dicamba cannot be fixed. *********************************************************************************** Corn Earworm Building Up More Resistance to Crop Protection Efforts To minimize damage and reduce the need for insecticide sprays, crops have been genetically engineered to produce bacterial proteins that kill key pests but are not harmful to people or wildlife. However, widespread planting of such transgenic crops has led to rapid adaptation by some pests. Researchers from the University of Arizona used genomics to investigate the genetic changes causing resistance to transgenic crops in field populations of the corn earworm. The corn earworm is one the world’s most challenging pests in terms of its ability to quickly evolve resistance in the field to genetically engineered crops, says senior study author Bruce Tabashnik. To analyze the genetic basis of field-evolved resistance of corn earworm, insects were sent for DNA extraction and sequencing to enable scanning the entire genome for genetic differences between the resistant and susceptible corn earworm caterpillars. the genomic analysis included 937 corn earworms from 17 sites in seven states across the southern U.S. *********************************************************************************** Food Fight: US Dietary Guidelines Could Cut Meat and Potatoes Beef groups slammed recommendations for consumers to increase their protein intake via beans, peas and lentils, calling the proposal “unhinged.” A major battle is brewing over how much red meat Americans should consume — and it has the beef industry seeing red. The United States is preparing next year to update its Dietary Guidelines for Americans, an influential set of recommendations that inform nutrition labels, what food is served in schools and hospitals and the advice that healthcare professionals give patients. Drafted recommendations are set to call for greater intake of plant-based foods while limiting consumption of beef and starchy vegetables like potatoes. The committee of scientists behind the recommendations also proposed moving “meats, poultry, eggs” to the last group listed in the protein-foods category while adding beans, peas and lentils as options. *********************************************************************************** US-Only Supply Chains Could Emerge Under Trump Companies looking to avoid tariffs on imports from China will likely shake up their sourcing. Facing the threat of more tariffs, companies will begin to create supply chains just to export to America. Creating a separate supply chain for the U.S. market would mean eliminating components from China for products bound for the country. Speaking at the Port of Los Angeles this week, Mary Lovely, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, asserted, “If the U.S. says, ‘no Chinese content, no matter what the good, what the product, whether there’s a national security implication or not,’ you’re going to see that supply chains will be created at higher expense just to serve the United States. With President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to impose tariffs during his administration, shippers and supply chain managers are revising their trade strategies — which could come at a higher cost. We’re looking ahead to a period that we think will be very active for trade policy. *********************************************************************************** How Are Pecans Being Affected by Climate Change? Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, which are already having a profound impact on the crops in large agricultural. We are seeing decreases in crop productivity due to plant stress from excessive dry and warm conditions. The University of Texas at El Paso study will look at how drought, heat waves, and soil impact the cycle of water and carbon between plants and the atmosphere in dryland agricultural ecosystems. It will focus on two orchards, one in the El Paso area and another in the Conchos River basin near the city of Delicias in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. The research team will monitor tree and root system growth, soil-plant water status, and canopy temperature. Their goal is to develop a detailed understanding of how soil structure and management practices can either mitigate or exacerbate the stress that plants experience during extreme weather events. *********************************************************************************** Corteva Unveils ‘Breakthrough’ in Drought-Resistant Wheat A new seed hybrid has the potential to increase yields by 10% and represents one of the first major innovations for the crop in decades. This week Corteva unveiled a drought-resistant wheat seed that could be “revolutionary” in advancing more climate-resilient hybrids for a crop that’s been difficult to innovate. The new proprietary hybrid wheat seed has the potential to increase yields by 10% while using the same amount of land and resources. The non-GMO technology can also provide yields 20% above competitors in drought conditions. The Indianapolis-based company plans to bring hybrid Hard Red Winter wheat to North America by 2027 as competitors race to bring drought-tolerant seeds to market. Hybrid seeds, created by crossing two genetically different parents, have been used for decades by corn and soy farmers as a way to produce more resilient, higher yielding plants. However, due to the relatively complex genetics of wheat, progress on creating a hybrid has been slow.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 22, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Consumer Sentiment at 9 a.m. CST Cattle On Feed and Chicken and Eggs report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A system weakening in the Northeast is still able to produce some lake-effect showers in the Midwest for Friday, but mostly as rain. The Pacific Northwest continues to be pounded by a system off the West Coast with some snow leaking into the Canadian Prairies and Montana.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 21, 2024 |
White House Wants $100 Billion for Disaster Relief The White House is asking for $98.6 billion in emergency disaster relief funding following multiple hurricanes this fall. Roll Call says the administration wants a comprehensive package that extends back to unmet needs from prior disasters, encompassing requests the White House made over a year ago. The largest piece of the funding, $40 billion, would restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s dwindling fund for immediate disaster response needs. Another $21 billion would allow USDA to compensate farmers and ranchers for crop and livestock losses. “From rebuilding homes and reopening critical infrastructure to supporting the nation’s farmers and ranchers and ensuring access to healthcare services, impacted communities await your response,” President Biden wrote in a letter to Congress. “There can be no delay.” Congress will decide how much to appropriate and whether to attach the package to a stopgap measure that may be needed to avoid a partial government shutdown after December 20. *********************************************************************************** Summit Carbon Applies Again for Pipeline in South Dakota Summit Carbon Solutions resubmitted an application for a carbon dioxide pipeline to South Dakota state regulators this week. The application included “major reroutes” of the proposed structure in four South Dakota counties. The move happened over a year after the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission rejected the company’s first application. “By working hand-in-hand with landowners and communities, we’ve developed a project that balances progress with respect for those directly involved,” says Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions. “Together, we’re creating a new pathway to new markets and lasting economic growth for generations to come.” The 2,500-mile pipeline will include 700 miles in South Dakota. It will eventually transport CO2 from 57 ethanol plants across five states, including 14 in South Dakota and Gevo’s (JEE-voes) SAF plant near Lake Preston, South Dakota. The majority of the CO2 will be safely and permanently stored in North Dakota via Class Six injection wells. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Thanksgiving Survey Shows Dinner Cost Declined from 2023 Cooking a Thanksgiving dinner this year for friends and family will cost less than last year but is still more expensive than before COVID-19. The 39th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey shows the cost of this year’s classic holiday feast for ten people is $58.08 or about $5.80 per person. That’s a five percent decrease from 2023, which was 4.5 percent lower than 2022. Two years of declines don’t erase dramatic increases that led to a record high cost of $64.06 in 2022. Despite the encouraging momentum, a Thanksgiving meal is still 19 percent higher than it was in 2019. Turkey, the centerpiece on most tables, helped bring down the overall cost of the dinner. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $25.67. That’s $1.68 per pound, which is down six percent from 2023. Items like dinner rolls and cubed stuffing both saw an eight percent increase, and cranberries were up 12 percent. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Processing Injuries and Illness Fall Sharply The incidence of occupational injuries and illnesses within the poultry sector’s slaughter and processing workforce has fallen sharply. The number of injury and illness occurrences is below all general industry, manufacturing, and food manufacturing levels for the first time since the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics began recording the information in 1994. The 2023 incident rate of 2.6 injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers represents an 89 percent decrease from 1994, the oldest data available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website, when the recorded rate was 22.7. “The poultry industry has always prioritized employee safety and remains dedicated to preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, with a particular focus on disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome,” says the Joint Poultry Industry Safety and Health Council. “By embracing ergonomic practices and early medical intervention, and by adopting new technology and automation, the industry has made significant strides in worker safety.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding to Strengthen the Specialty Crops Sector Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the creation of new programs that will help farmers who grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts overcome market barriers for their products. The programs will also help producers access necessary pre-market storage for their crops following severe weather events, including the recent hurricanes. The new Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Initiative will provide $2 billion to assist specialty crop growers in maintaining a strong domestic supply and expanding market opportunities for their crops. USDA is also creating the Commodity Storage Assistance Program that will provide $140 million to help producers gain access to a packinghouse, grain elevator, or other facilities necessary for marketing their commodities. This program is designed for farmers nationwide due to disaster-related challenges, and USDA anticipates a high signup rate in the Southeast due to hurricane devastation. “These programs will be important for producers in every corner of the U.S.,” says Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** Sugar Alliance Congratulates Congressional Leadership The American Sugar Alliance congratulated John Thune (R-SD) on his election as Senate Majority Leader and Representative Mike Johnson (R-LA) on his re-election as Speaker of the House. “American farmers are vital to American strength and food security, and we’re encouraged to see strong agricultural champions positioned in these key leadership roles,” says Jack Pettus, Chairman of the American Sugar Alliance. From coast to coast, American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and factory workers support more than 151,000 jobs and drive $23.3 billion in annual economic activity. “Both the Senate and House leadership teams will be comprised of members who have a first-hand understanding of why we must keep American sugar production in America,” Pettus added. “We look forward to working with them as we continue advocating for our farmers, workers, and the rural communities they support.” The American Sugar Alliance is strongly urging Congress to pass a new five-year Farm Bill.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 21, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST Agricultural Exchange Rate Data at 2 p.m. CST Livestock Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Weather A balled-up system in the Great Lakes is producing scattered rain and snow showers across the region on Thursday. Some heavier snow will move down around Lake Michigan and through Indiana along with some breezy winds. Meanwhile, heavy precipitation continues to move into the Pacific Northwest, with some snow showers leaking into the Canadian Prairies as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 20, 2024 |
Farm Loan Concerns in Struggling Ag Economy A new report says banks could be more hesitant to lend to the farm sector just as the agricultural industry is expected to enter a major credit crunch. Rabobank says that could disproportionately hurt smaller producers in the process. After two years of near-record profits, a significant drop in crop prices is pushing more producers to take out loans. Although farmers have built up somewhat of a liquidity buffer to manage the downturn, Rabobank says those savings are expected to run out by the next crop year. “Although the U.S. agricultural sector’s financial affairs are projected to finish 2023-2024 in stable condition, the trajectory is downward,” the report says. Demand for farm loans is set to climb to levels not seen since 2013 with producers expected to increase their borrowing by billions of dollars over the next several years. Producers may face stricter borrowing requirements when taking out new loans. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Releases Democrat’s Version of the Senate Farm Bill Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow spoke on the Senate floor and introduced the “Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act.” She says for more than two years, she’s been working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass her sixth farm bill. “The farmers I met with made clear that the farm safety net must be the backbone of support for all farmers, and not just a handful of mostly southern commodities,” she said. “Large increases in farm subsidies shouldn’t be paid for on the back of our families in need or the broader needs of our small towns and rural communities.” Farm Policy News says her Senate bill and the House-approved bill differ in multiple ways. Top Ag Republican John Boozman of Arkansas quickly rejected the proposal, saying, “A partisan proposal released 415 days after the expiration of the current farm bill is insulting. America’s farmers deserve better.” *********************************************************************************** Congress Reaffirms Low Costs of Keeping AM in Vehicles The Congressional Budget Office released a second cost analysis for the revised AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2024. Radio Ink says the scoring still bodes well for radio. The estimated budgetary effects of the Senate and House bills are similar. The CBO estimates that 2.5 to three million EVs annually would need updates to media equipment and software. While the cost of these updates is considered minimal, the CBO estimates the total annual cost for automakers would be in the low millions, and far below the $200 million threshold for private-sector mandates set by the U.S. government. While both the Senate and House versions of the bill remain pending, bipartisan support continues growing. The National Association of Broadcasters, NAFB, state broadcast associations, legislators, and tens of thousands of listeners are calling on Congress to act swiftly by emphasizing AM radio as a free and reliable platform for emergency communications. *********************************************************************************** Minneapolis Fed Saw Farm Incomes Drop During the fall, harvests are typically the biggest concern on farmers’ minds. But even in parts of the Ninth District where crops looked bountiful, crop prices that have been falling for the last two years were a bigger worry this year. That’s according to an October survey of agricultural bankers by the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank. “Above average yields may somewhat offset the lower commodity prices,” a South Dakota banker said in the survey. “The resulting financial stress on many operations will most likely be more noticeable this year.” The survey asked about conditions from July through September, and respondents say farm incomes across the region overwhelmingly dropped. Spending on capital equipment also fell, though farm household purchases increased on balance. Tighter income pushed up demand for loans, while the rate of loan repayments dropped. Loan renewal and extension activity increased. Land values and cash rents also increased from a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Disappointed in Failure to Address Prop 12 The National Pork Producers Council issued a statement after Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow unveiled the Senate Democrats’ 2024 Farm Bill text. While NPPC appreciates Chairman Stabenow’s efforts to publish farm bill text, they say it’s simply not a viable bill. “It fails to provide a solution to California’s Prop 12,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer, a Minnesota pork producer. “Pork producers have continually spoken up about the negative impact of this issue, and it’s a shame these conversations were disregarded,” Stevermer said. In May, NPPC secured 100 percent of pork producers’ priorities in the House Agriculture Committee-passed bipartisan 2024 Farm Bill. In June, producers once again secured all policy priorities in Senate Ag Ranking Member John Boozman’s 2024 Farm Bill Framework. NPPC is urging both the House and Senate to swiftly consider and pass a farm bill this year that includes a legislative fix to California’s Proposition 12. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Morocco and West Africa in December Representatives from 50 U.S. agribusinesses and trade groups and 14 state departments of agriculture will travel to Casablanca, Morocco, on December 2-5. “This mission offers a crucial opportunity for U.S. agribusinesses to enter into Morocco’s dynamic market and leverage its strategic position for wider American access,” says Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley, who will lead the trade mission. “We are dedicated to facilitating these vital connections and expanding America’s agricultural exports.” Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. U.S. sales of farm and food products to the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of the continent’s market share. American agricultural exports to Morocco have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement went into effect in 2006. Whitley says U.S. exporters have a number of opportunities in numerous sectors, including beef, dairy, feed grains, live animals, rice, seafood, seed potatoes, soybeans, and more.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 20, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Weekly Petroleum status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A system continues in the Canadian Prairies, bringing heavy snow to eastern areas and down into the North-Central U.S. as well. The system is pushing colder air through more of the country. On the leading edge of that cold air, some showers have developed in Illinois early Wednesday morning and a new low pressure center will develop around Michigan today, continuing the showers in the Midwest for the rest of the week as a mix of rain and snow. Snow could come down heavy at times the next couple of days. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest will continue to be pounded by a large storm.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 15, 2024 |
AFBF Expels Illinois FB, Legal Challenges to Follow The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has kicked the Illinois Farm Bureau out of the federation effective December 20 in a dispute over member dues. The Illinois organization has responded by challenging the move in circuit court. A letter from AFBF President Zippy Duvall to state farm bureau presidents said the action comes after a failed mediation session on Monday. The move is in retaliation for a decision by the Illinois Farm Bureau’s affiliate, Country Financial, to drop a Farm Bureau membership eligibility requirement for non-farm insurance policy holders in Illinois. The Illinois Farm Bureau and Country Financial have the same individuals on both boards of directors, though they have different fiduciary duties. WGLT reports there are three other states where Country does business where farm clients are required to be members of their state farm bureau, but none except Illinois where non-farm clients had to buy a farm bureau membership as well. ************************************************************************************ Mississippi River Low During Harvest for Third Straight Year The Mississippi River is experiencing an unwelcome three-peat with low water levels during harvest season. The “Mighty Mississip” experienced low water in both 2022 and 2023 and now once again this harvest season. Charts from the U.S. Geological Survey show precipitation and the resulting water levels were quite robust during the spring and early summer. But after mid-July, precipitation declined significantly, which caused a steady and dramatic decrease in water levels. The short-lived 15-plus foot spike in water levels at Memphis due to Hurricane Helene passed through the system quickly in late September, and the levels returned to where they were earlier. The impact on agriculture shipping can be dramatic when water levels drop. For example, for each foot of draft reduction on the river, an individual barge is loaded with 7,000 fewer bushels (200 tons) of soybeans. Depending on the location in the river, tow sizes are being reduced from 10-15% at minimum and upwards of 30-40%. ************************************************************************************* Producers Readying Themselves for New Trade War Under Trump USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Thursday that USDA is funding new projects in nearly every state to lower costs, expand access to clean energy and strengthen American farms and small businesses. USDA is making the investments through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). “The Biden-Harris Administration and USDA are ensuring farmers, small business owners and rural communities have the resources they need for the future,” Secretary Vilsack said. “The investments I’m announcing today will help rural communities lead our country toward an economy that benefits working people everywhere with lower costs and clean energy jobs.” Vilsack said this new round invests more than $256 million in loans and grants that will support more than 1,100 clean energy projects in 40 states. Most of the new projects are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. ************************************************************************************* Ducks Unlimited, Sorghum Producers to Promote Water Conservation Ducks Unlimited (DU) and National Sorghum Producers (NSP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cooperatively promote water conversation. This MOU aims to develop and expand a framework of cooperation between DU and NSP uniquely focused on water savings and market innovation. The partnership will support agricultural producers and surrounding rural communities by promoting water-efficient practices, expand critical waterfowl habitat that also recharges below-ground aquifers, and drive innovation into new value-added opportunities around ‘water-smart’ commodities. “If there’s one thing that ducks and agriculture both need, it’s water,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “DU and NSP have a shared interest in conserving America’s precious water resources, and our collaboration will enable us to achieve success that wouldn’t be possible alone.” “National Sorghum Producers has long championed innovative, sustainable practices that enhance agricultural productivity while preserving our vital natural resources,” NSP CEO Tim Lust said. “Sorghum...serves as a water-sipping alternative to more thirsty crops, making it indispensable in water-stressed regions.” ************************************************************************************* Food Prices Slightly Higher in October The October Consumer Price Index numbers for food-at-home show that prices increased just 0.1% for the month and fell to 1.1% year over year. Heading into the holiday season, some prices have moderated. Andy Harig, vice president for FMI, the Food Industry Association, said, the "CPI numbers illustrate once again that -- while the process of bringing down overall inflation continues to be a work in progress -- food price inflation remains on a solid path.” In addition, turkey prices are down 11% from last year, ham prices are expected to drop 2.5% and apples, fresh cranberries and frozen pies are all expected to be more affordable. "With Thanksgiving around the corner, the good news for consumers is that many traditional items will cost less than last year," according to Harig. The overall CPI edged up a slight 0.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis in October, the same rate as the each of the previous three months. ************************************************************************************* Cox Farms Becomes North America’s Largest Indoor Farmer Cox Farms, a recently launched subsidiary of telecommunications conglomerate Cox Enterprises, said it is now the largest indoor farming operator in North America following its latest acquisition of a greenhouse facility in Canada. Cox-owned Mucci Farms added to its footprint with the acquisition of Greenhill Produce, a nearly 150-acre facility in Kent Bridge, Ontario, that specializes in bell peppers. Financial details were not disclosed. The purchase gives Cox Farms more than 700 acres of greenhouse space across its two brands. In addition to Mucci Farms, Cox also owns leafy greens grower BrightFarms. Since launching in March, Cox Farms has embarked on a rapid acquisition spree and doubled the acreage across its two brands in roughly nine months. “Seeing Cox Farms become North America’s largest greenhouse operator is a proud moment for us,” Alex Taylor, chairman and CEO of Cox Enterprises, said in a statement. “Cox Farms is not only providing fresh food options to millions but is also setting a powerful example of building a better future in agriculture.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 15, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA/FAS Export sales report at 7:30am CT U.S. retail sales report at 7:30am CT US Industrial production and capacity utilization at 8:15am CT USDA Livestock Outlook at 2pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30pm CT Weather An overall quiet day is in store east of the Rockies Friday. But a system is moving through the West and will bring scattered showers in some areas there.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 14, 2024 |
Thune Elected Senate Majority Leader Senate Republicans have elected South Dakota’s John Thune as the next Senate majority leader after rejecting public overtures from allies of President-elect Donald Trump who backed a different candidate. MSN reports Thune won in a secret-ballot vote of 29-24, beating out opposing candidates John Cornyn of Texas and Rick Scott of Florida. The 63-year-old Thune will succeed Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has led his chamber's Republicans since 2007 and is the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history. Thune has served as whip since 2019 and campaigned heavily for his GOP colleagues during this election cycle, a metric often used to size up candidates' fundraising prowess and willingness to help out the party. Thune raised $33 million this cycle and attended more than 200 events for Republican candidates, according to his office. Thune has served in the Senate since 2005. Before that, he was South Dakota's at-large representative in the House for six years. ************************************************************************************ Zeldin Tabbed to Head EPA President-elect Donald Trump has selected former New York congressman Lee Zeldin to run the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The nomination for EPA administrator will need confirmation from the Senate, where Republicans are poised to hold a majority of seats next term. “Zeldin will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses,” Trump said in a statement, adding that Zeldin will still maintain “the highest environmental standards.” NPR reports environmental groups decried the nomination as a step backward for environmental policy. Reuters reports during his time in Congress from 2015 to 2023 as a representative from New York, Zeldin cast “yes” votes on key pieces of environmental legislation just 14% of the time, according to a scorecard by environmental group the League of Conservation Voters. ************************************************************************************ Tractor Sales Plummet in October Sales of tractors for agricultural use plunged year-over-year in October, according to data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Tractor sales dropped 14% from the same month a year earlier to 21,354 units. Combine sales fell almost 35%. These declines point to the overall softness in the ag economy following a robust five years of positive industry results. Sales of two-wheel drive tractors fell 15% to 20,631 units, led by a 38% drop in sales of those with 100 horsepower or more. Sales of tractors with 40 to 99 horsepower fell 13% to 5,868 and those with less than 40 horsepower lost 8.4% to 12,185 units. Successful Farming reports sales of four-wheel drive tractors were down 0.4% to 723 units. Meanwhile, combine sales plunged about 35% to 516 units. ************************************************************************************ Corn and Soybean Harvests Nearly Complete As of November 10, 95% of the 2024 corn crop in the top 18 corn-growing states was harvested. This was up from 91% a week prior and ahead of the five-year average of 84%. USDA said 96% of the soybean crop in the top 18 growing states was in the bins. This was up from 94% the week prior and ahead of the five-year average of 91%. Planting is also making progress with winter wheat across the top 18 states at 91% planted as of Nov. 10. This was up from 87% the week prior but behind the five-year average of 93%. USDA said 76% of winter wheat was out of the ground. This was up from 66% the week prior but behind the five-year average of 79%. ************************************************************************************ Trump Administration Likely to Abandon HIIPP Rule A second Donald Trump presidency will likely spell the death of OSHA’s recently published heat safety rule, but experts say it won’t necessarily mean no standard will come to pass. The agency published the proposed rule and began accepting public comments this summer. That time period will close on December 30. Then it would take several months for OSHA to review all of the input, finalize the rule, and put it into effect. But Ashley Brightwell, partner in Atlanta-based Alston & Bird’s labor and employment group, called the finalization of the rule “highly unlikely” before President Biden leaves office. The standard would also face congressional and legal challenges, and she added the Trump administration could abandon the rulemaking process altogether. The 1,000-page rule requires a Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan, or HIIPP, that employers would need to put into effect for a heat trigger when temperatures reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. ************************************************************************************ First State to Complete Soybean Harvest? Minnesota! The first state to complete the 2024 soybean harvest was a surprise: Minnesota has finished its harvest, the USDA said in the latest Crop Progress Report. The state was five percentage points ahead of its five-year average for November 3. This is a change from 2023, when Louisiana was the first state to get all of its soybeans in the bin. Minnesota Soybean Growers Association President Darin Johnson, who farms in Faribault County near the southern border, told Successful Farming that weather conditions played a big role in farmers getting into fields early to harvest. A really dry August and September pushed the harvest window up so much that farmers were in the fields harvesting soybeans by mid-September. According to the June Acreage Report released by USDA, Minnesota planted the third-most soybeans in the country in 2024 at 7.53 million acres.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 14, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Brazilian agency Conab releases their November crop report at 6 a.m. CST Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST ERS Cost of Production Forecast at 2 p.m. CST Fed Chair Jerome Powell press conference at 2 p.m. CST Weather A storm system in the Midwest continues to produce showers there down to the Southeast early Thursday morning. The system will continue to slide eastward, with some areas of moderate rainfall. A trough continues to dig into the West, setting up several storm systems for the weekend and next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 13, 2024 |
Mexico Now Top U.S. Export Customer, China Drops to Third U.S. food and ag sales to Mexico surged by 7% during the 2024 fiscal year, making the North American neighbor the No. 1 ag export customer, according to Census Bureau data tracked by the USDA. China fell to third place behind Canada in export purchases. Shipments to Mexico totaled $30 billion, an increase of $2 billion from 2023, with purchases that included a record 24.5 million metric tons of corn, 40% of all U.S. corn exports for the year. Canada bought $29 billion and China $25.7 billion of American-grown food and ag products. Together, Mexico and Canada accounted for one-third of U.S. food and ag exports of $173 billion for the year. And they were forecast to repeat as the top two markets in fiscal 2025, with China again in third place. Brazil has gained a larger share of the ag import market in China. ************************************************************************************ Producers Readying Themselves for New Trade War Under Trump U.S. agriculture is bracing for a new trade war under U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, but Reuters reports producers say they are “better prepared” this time than they were in 2016, when Trump was first elected. “China will remain a key market,” according to Jason Hafemeister, USDA Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Services. “Even in the last couple of years we’ve recognized the potential for disruption in U.S.-China trade so a lot of our efforts have gone into diversifying our markets.” Trump is threatening new tariffs on Chinese imports, and China is likely to reciprocate. “I think it’s terribly naive of anyone to think that the election of Trump and the Republican party will be positive for agriculture,” said Jay O’Neil, a grain industry consultant and former economist at Kansas State University. ************************************************************************************* USDA Cuts Soybean Yield, But Probably Not Enough to Bounce Market USDA slashed expectations for soybeans on Friday in a surprise revision to its production outlook, potentially offering some relief to farmers who have struggled with surplus crops and low prices. Soybean production is forecast at 4.46 billion bushels, down 3% from USDA’s October forecast. Yields are expected to average 51.7 bushels per acre, a decline of 1.4 bushels from the previous forecast. Markets moved slightly higher in reaction to the news, with USDA economist Seth Meyer saying corn increased by 3 cents and soybeans improved by 5 to 6 cents. However, market response was moderated with crop supply still plentiful. “On the bean side, [there was] a pretty late season yield surprise,” Meyer said, “but was still a plentiful carryout, which is really going to temper the market’s ability to push those prices higher.” ************************************************************************************* Thompson Leads List of Potential Ag Secretary Candidates House Agriculture Chair Glenn Thompson is among those being considered for agriculture secretary in the next Trump administration, according to a person familiar with the team’s thinking. Politico reports the Pennsylvania Republican, who developed closer ties to Trump during the president-elect’s many campaign visits to the Keystone State, offers deep knowledge of agriculture policy. The Trump transition team neither confirmed nor denied the possibility of tapping Thompson. “President-Elect Trump will begin making decisions on who will serve in his second Administration soon. Those decisions will be announced when they are made,” said spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. Other names being mentioned are Former Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs Ted McKinney; Kip Tom, formerly U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture; and former White House ag advisor Ray Starling. ************************************************************************************* Export Inspections Down Week over Week Inspections of corn, beans and wheat for overseas delivery all declined week to week, according to data from the Ag Department. Corn inspections in the seven days that ended on Oct. 31 were reported at 779,078 metric tons, the agency said. That’s down more than seven percent from a week earlier but more than 26 percent above the 574,558 tons assessed during the same week a year earlier. Soybean assessments totaled 2.16 million tons, down from 2.63 million tons the previous week and just below the 2.18 million tons inspected at the same point in 2023. Examinations of wheat for export dropped to 193,523 tons, just 65 percent of the inspections the week prior. The total was still above the 114,318 tons assessed in the same week last year, the agency said. Since the start of the marketing year on Sept. 1, USDA has inspected 7.42 million metric tons of wheat for export. That’s up from 5.55 million tons during the same time frame a year earlier. ************************************************************************************* Tractor Manufacturers Slow Production as Demand Declines As farmers struggle with low crop prices, relatively high interest rates and increased input costs, fewer are making big-ticket purchases like tractors, combines and farm implements, resulting in a backlog of inventory across the globe. Machinery manufacturer AGCO has about four months of orders with its dealers in North America and is looking to bring that number down to three, Eric Hansotia, AGCO's president and CEO, said in an investor call last week. In general, manufacturers want to optimize their coverage to avoid extra costs and storage fees. "We will continue to focus on under-producing retail demand, coupled with retail market share execution to bring dealer inventories in line with our targeted range," according to Hansotia. Competitors Deere & Co. and CNH have also slowed their production and reduced their workforce numbers throughout the year to account for the down market. While tractor and combine sales wane, manufacturers are expecting precision agriculture sales to grow as farmers look to boost yields and lower day-to-day costs.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 13, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA Oil Crops Outlook at 11 a.m. CST USDA Feed, Rice, and Wheat Outlooks at 2 p.m. CST Weather A small system is moving from the Plains into the Mississippi Valley Wednesday morning, bringing scattered showers into the region. Some heavier rain will be possible from the Delta into the Ohio Valley with some thunderstorms later in the day. The Pacific Northwest will continue to have showers moving through as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 12, 2024 |
Cost Down to Raise 2025 Corn Crop Looking ahead to the 2025 corn crop, one company says the cost to raise that crop is down. Farmers National Company says 2025 crop inputs are expected to see a slight reduction compared to 2024. While some farms may experience increased costs for specific reasons, such as adding lime, improving drainage, or boosting fertility, the overall picture suggests a decrease in expenses for most farms. The reduction is primarily anticipated in fertilizer, crop insurance, and interest costs. Seed, chemicals, equipment, labor, and the cost of land are expected to remain stable. FNC expects fertilizer costs to decrease by up to 10 percent. Crop insurance costs are expected to be down in 2025 based on current commodity prices for next year. Interest rates have decreased slightly, with further reductions expected in 2025. As always, FNC says these expectations are based on no major disruptions from weather, worldwide events, or farm bill changes. *********************************************************************************** Kircher Names President of the National Chicken Council The National Chicken Council’s Board of Directors announced that Harrison Kircher is the new President and CEO of the organization, effective January 1, 2025. “On behalf of the NCC Board, I congratulate Harrison on his appointment as the new President and CEO,” says NCC Chairman Bill Griffith. “His dedication, expertise, and leadership have been evident throughout his time with the Council.” Kircher has been a member of the NCC team for 13 years, most recently as the senior vice president of government affairs in 2021. His primary focus there has been advancing NCC’s lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill and educating members of Congress and their staffs on a wide range of policy issues, including agriculture, appropriations, immigration, labor, energy, and international trade. “I’m honored to accept this position and the opportunity to continue working for the chicken industry,” Kircher says. “I’m confident in our future success given the strong team around me.” *********************************************************************************** AFBF Presents First Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence Retired Army Colonel Joe Ricker (RY-ker) of Indiana is the first winner of the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence presented by the American Farm Bureau Federation with support from Farm Credit. Ricker served 30 years in the Army before retiring from a Pentagon logistics post in 2022. Since leaving the Army, Ricker started At Ease Orchard, a nonprofit that introduces veterans, first responders, and their family members to beekeeping and other farm activities. He also founded Veterans in Farming, which provides vets in Indiana with training and support to succeed in farming. Ricker has also served as a veteran outreach coordinator for AgrAbility. “We’re proud to elevate and celebrate Col. Joe Ricker for his past service to our country and current involvement in agriculture and local communities,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices of veterans and their services, and I’m delighted to highlight their contributions to agriculture, too.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Alliance Commends CARB Clean Fuels Alliance America commends the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for passing amendments to the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. The group says that’s another step forward in California’s decarbonization leadership. Clean Fuels acknowledges CARB’s continued commitment to a cleaner future while recognizing there is more work ahead to ensure crop-based renewable fuels are recognized as a long-term solution. “Clean Fuels has enjoyed a long partnership with CARB and is committed to working with staff to ensure that the updated regulations can meet California’s aggressive carbon reduction targets while supporting the agricultural community that is the backbone for our sustainable clean fuels,” says Cory-Ann Wind, director of state regulatory affairs at Clean Fuels Alliance. Since the LCFS was adopted in 2009, California fleets have used increasing amounts of biomass-based diesel to lower emissions and lessen reliance on fossil fuels. Biodiesel is responsible for 45 percent of California’s LCFS progress. *********************************************************************************** USMEF Elects New Chair Steven Hanson, a rancher and cattle feeder from Nebraska was elected chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation at the organization’s Strategic Planning Conference in Tucson, Arizona. Hanson said a priority will be to highlight the partnerships with the various checkoffs that support the work of USMEF around the globe. He also touted the strength that comes from the unified work of all the various sectors of the red meat industry that are involved in the USMEF. Hanson succeeds Minnesota hog producer and grain farmer Randy Spronk. Jay Theiler is the USMEF Chair-Elect and executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Co., a diversified business with operations in every step of the beef supply chain, including ranching cattle feeding, cattle nutrition, and beef processing. Dave Bruntz is USMEF’s vice chair and president of Bruntz Farming and Feeding in Southeastern Nebraska and raises irrigated corn and soybeans and feeds cattle. *********************************************************************************** CDC Wants Expanding H5N1 Testing for Farmworkers A new study recently showed that some dairy workers had signs of H5N1 infection even when they didn’t report feeling sick. As a result, federal health officials called for more testing of employees on farms affected by bird flu. The University of Texas Medical Branch says farmworkers in close contact with infected animals should be tested and offered treatment, even if they show no H5N1 symptoms. The new guidance comes after blood tests for 115 farmworkers in Michigan and Colorado showed that eight workers – seven percent – had antibodies that indicated a previous infection with H5N1 influenza. The purpose of the actions is to keep workers safe, to limit the transmission to humans, and to reduce the possibility of the virus changing. The CDC study provides the largest window to date into how the bird virus first detected in March in dairy cows may be spreading to people.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 12, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Feed Grains Update at 11 a.m. CST Seasonal Average Price Forecast from ERS at 2 p.m. CST Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. CST Weather A system in the Rockies will move out into the Plains later in the day on Tuesday, with scattered showers and a few thunderstorms building into the overnight hours. Conditions will be much drier elsewhere.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 11, 2024 |
USDA Reduces Corn and Soybean Production Estimates More Than Expected This month’s 2024/2025 U.S. corn outlook is for lower production and ending stocks, according to the November WASDE report. Corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, down 60 million from last month on a 0.7-bushel reduction in yield to 183.1 bushels per acre. Harvested area for grain is unchanged at 82.7 million acres. Total use is unchanged at 15 billion bushels. With supply falling and no change to use, corn ending stocks are down to 1.9 billion bushels. U.S. soybean supply and use changes for 2024/2025 include lower production, exports, crush, and ending stocks. Soybean production is forecast at 4.5 billion bushels, down 121 million on reduced yields. The largest production changes are for Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota. Exports are lowered 25 million bushels to 1.8 billion on lower supplies and sales to date. Crush is lowered 15 million bushels to 2.4 billion, reflecting lower soybean meal domestic disappearance and exports. Soybean ending stocks are lowered 80 million bushels to 470 million bushels. ************************************************************************************************************* USDA Tightens Numbers as Harvest Nears Completion The latest month-over-month adjustments to USDA’s Crop Production Forecast reflect tightening of numbers as harvest winds down. The National Agricultural Statistics Service reports lower production forecast in November for major spring planted crops, soybean production forecasts lowered 3% from the previous month, and corn and cotton production declining by less than 1% from October. Yet record to near-record marks are still indicated in various production categories, the second-highest total production for soybeans, fueled by the second-highest yield total on record, and record yields for corn, contributing to the third highest production totals on record for that crop. For example, even with the slight production forecast adjustments, the season-ending average price estimates for corn, beans and cotton remained unchanged from the previous month. *********************************************************************************************************** EPA Urged to Ban Paraquat More than 50 U.S. lawmakers are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to ban the use of a weedkiller linked to Parkinson’s disease and other health risks to humans. In a letter to the agency, seven U.S. senators said that paraquat, a chemical commonly used on farms across the country to protect row crops, fruits and vegetables, is a highly toxic pesticide whose continued use cannot be justified given its harms to farmworkers and rural communities. The call for a nationwide ban came after 47 U.S. Representatives sent a similar letter to the EPA earlier in October. According to findings from a recent study, paraquat could more than double a person’s odds of developing Parkinson’s if not sprayed more than 500 meters from where people live and work. ************************************************************************************************************* CDC Calling for More H5N1 Testing of Dairy Farm Employees A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that some dairy farm employees showed signs of infection, even when they didn’t report feeling sick. The CDC concluded that more bird flu testing of dairy farm employees is required. The purpose of these actions is to keep workers safe, to limit the transmission of H5N1 to humans and to reduce the possibility of the virus changing. The new CDC study provides the largest window to date into how the bird virus detected last March in dairy cows may be spreading to people. The study suggests the virus has infected more humans than the 46 farmworkers currently identified in the U.S. Nearly all were in contact with infected dairy cows or infected poultry. The scientific community considers every additional infection in animals or humans a chance for the virus to change in potentially dangerous ways. ************************************************************************************************************* California Voters Reject Ban on ‘Factory Farming’ A proposal to phase out large livestock operations in a major California agricultural county failed. California voters in the major agricultural region of Sonoma (suh-NO-mah) County overwhelmingly voted down a controversial ballot proposal to phase out large farms in a win for the meat industry. The ballot initiative, Measure J, which about 85% of the voters opposed, would have banned large livestock farms, also known as concentrated animal feeding operations. Proponents said the measure would protect animal welfare as well as provide a national model to transform food systems away from large-scale agriculture. Around two dozen CAFOs operate in Sonoma County, including four owned by poultry giant Perdue Farms. However, the majority of the state’s CAFOs are in California’s Central Valley. The ballot measure in the rural county spurred broad pushback from farmers, who expressed concern that the loss of large farms could have ripple effects throughout the agricultural economy. ************************************************************************************************************* Floods, Winter Weather Expected in Oklahoma and Texas Flood warnings and watches remain in effect in much of central Oklahoma and north-central Texas amid ongoing storms, according to the National Weather Service. Several rivers were overrunning their banks in parts of the region Friday morning as rain and thunderstorms were forecast to continue into the weekend, the agency said. In eastern Colorado and New Mexico and the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles, blizzard warnings were in effect for the weekend. As much as 10 inches of snow are forecast for parts of the panhandles as long as temperatures stay low enough. Prolonged rain rather than snow will promote melting of existing snowfall, limiting new accumulations to only a few inches or less, with lesser impacts, the agency said. Any locations that are able to stay as snow longer before precipitation ends could see 5 to 10 inches of new accumulations and increased impacts.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 11, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Veteran's Day Holiday: U.S. bond market closed, most U.S. futures will trade, Canada markets are closed. Weather A few showers will go through the Great Lakes and East Coast while the next system moves into the West, but most areas of the country are quiet and dry for Monday. It is also warm by November standards for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 8, 2024 |
Speculation Starts on Next Ag Secretary Speculation has already begun on who the next Secretary of Agriculture will be when Donald Trump returns to the White House in January. Successful Farming says Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, former ambassador Kip Tom, and Ted McKinney of NASDA are among a handful of people viewed as potential nominees to run the Department of Agriculture. Incoming presidents typically try to announce their nominees before the year-end holidays, although Trump didn’t announce Sonny Perdue to lead USDA until two days before his inauguration. Miller was initially mentioned for USDA after Trump won his first term. Tom was the U.S. ambassador to the UN agencies for food and agriculture in Rome during the first term. McKinney, the undersecretary for trade in the first administration, is now the CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has also been mentioned because his term expires in December. *********************************************************************************** South Dakota Voters Turn Down Pipeline Regulation Bill Referred Law 21 in South Dakota would have created new requirements for regulating linear transmission facilities, including carbon dioxide pipelines, and allowed counties to assess a surcharge on certain pipelines. It also sought to establish a “Landowners Bill of Rights.” The numbers are showing the state’s voters said “no” to the ballot measure, which put the ethanol industry and landowners on opposite sides. Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions wants to construct a $5.5 billion, 2,500-mile pipeline network. The lines would carry carbon emissions from over 50 ethanol plants in multiple Midwest states to storage deep underground in North Dakota. The company will apply for a permit in South Dakota on November 19, 2024. Supporters say the pipeline is crucial for developing future aviation fuel markets for the Midwest ethanol industry, which buys one-third of the nation’s corn. Opponents questioned the forced use of their property and raised concerns about possible ruptures releasing hazardous gas. *********************************************************************************** Winter Flow Slowing in the Missouri River Gavins Point Dam releases in South Dakota will be reduced in late November as flow support for navigation ends. Releases are currently at 32,000 cubic feet per second. “We will continue to make releases from Gavins Point Dam to provide flow support at a level of 500 cubic feet per second less than full service through the end of the navigation support flow system,” says John Remus, Chief of the Core of Engineers. “The flow support season will end on December 1.” Release reductions to the winter rate of 12,000 CFS are scheduled to begin around November 22. Releases will be reduced gradually until they reach a rate of 15,000 cubic feet per second. October runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 0.5 million acre-feet, which is 43 percent of the average. About 95 percent of the Basin is either abnormally dry or in a drought. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Policy Meeting in December The United States Cattlemen’s Association will host its 2024 Annual Meeting December 5-7 in San Antonio, Texas, at the InterContinental Hotel. Each year, USCA brings together its industry members and leaders together to discuss current policy and issues facing the industry. This year, USCA will host panel discussions on animal IDs, marketing, competition, livestock risk protection, and new and emerging technologies within the industry. “The USCA Annual Meeting is an opportunity for producers and members to come together and discuss the issues that will guide the organization for the year ahead,” says USCA President Justin Tupper. “Each year, the meeting serves as the guidepost for how and what USCA will focus on in terms of policy and issue priorities.” The Annual Meeting kicks off with a “Meet the Officers and Staff event on Thursday evening. The meeting gets busy on Saturday with a full day of panels from industry experts. *********************************************************************************** Farm-to-School Program Applications Now Open The USDA is continuing its support for local foods in schools by opening applications for the 2025 Patrick Leahy (LAY-hee) Farm to School Grants. For the first time, USDA is allowing organizations to select the type of Farm to School Grant that best fits their needs by offering three different requests for applications. The Implementation Grant supports establishing or expanding comprehensive farm-to-school projects. The State Agency Grant helps state-level agencies implement local sourcing and agricultural education activities. The Turnkey Grant is for organizations interested in projects related to launching or enhancing farm-to-school activities, agriculture education, or edible gardens. Around the nation, K-12 schools serve meals to about 30 million children every school days. These meals provide critical nutrition to children and the foundation for our nation to have a healthier future. When local foods are incorporated into meals, it benefits the students, supply chains, and producers. *********************************************************************************** Updated Estimates of Renewable Diesel Through 2026 University of Illinois analysts looked into the future of renewable diesel production in the U.S. and saw some headwinds. Renewable diesel production capacity has exploded in recent years, increasing by more than three billion gallons. This substantially impacted fats and oils feedstock markets. However, the profitability of renewable diesel has taken a hit in the last year. The industry began to produce at levels greater than the demand ceiling set by the annual renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Farmdoc Daily says the bloom is off the renewable diesel boom that began in 2021. There’s a list of announced building projects that could add substantial production capacity in the future. However, none of these projects have broken ground and started construction. “Until there is confirmation of actual construction activity, it’s prudent to exclude the announced projects in projecting renewable diesel production capacity for 2027 or later,” the Farmdoc experts added.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 8, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA November WASDE Report and Crop Production at 11 a.m. CST FAS World Markets and Trade Updates at 11:15 a.m. CST CFTC Commitments of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather An upper-level system is developing a stronger low-pressure system in the Central and Southern Plains on Friday, with widespread showers and thunderstorms as well as continued heavy snow in Colorado and New Mexico. The rest of the country will be rather dry while Hurricane Rafael continues to sit in the Gulf and stay away from the U.S. coastline.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 7, 2024 |
September Meat Exports Above 2023 September U.S. pork and beef exports were higher year-over-year. That’s according to data from USDA compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Pork exports are well-positioned to set annual volume and value records in 2024. September pork exports totaled 238,047 metric tons, up eight percent from last year, while value climbed six percent to $685 million. Pork exports through September were on a record pace to Mexico, as are shipments to Central America, Colombia, and several Caribbean Markets. Through the first three quarters of this year, pork exports were five percent above last year’s pace at 2.3 million metric tons, with the value seven percent higher at $6.36 billion. U.S. beef exports reached 103,980 metric tons in September, up five percent year-over-year, while export value rose six percent to $843.8 million. January-September exports increased five percent in value to $7.82 billion despite volume dropping by two percent to 960,814 metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Lower Ag GHG Emissions in 2022 Farming activities in the U.S. accounted for 10.5 percent of America’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2022. From 2021 to 2022, agricultural greenhouse gas emissions decreased from 681.6 to 663.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and decreased from 10.8 percent to 10.5 percent as a share of the entire U.S. economy’s emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that in 2022, agriculture emitted 390.1 million metric tons as nitrous oxide emissions directly as nitrous oxide, 227 million metric tons of methane, 47.9 MMT directly as on-farm carbon dioxide, and indirectly emitted 29.7 MMT through electricity the agricultural sector uses. Ag practices that emit nitrous oxide include nitrogen fertilizer application and manure management. Major sources of agricultural methane emissions include enteric fermentation, manure management, and rice cultivation. The EPA has identified the industrial sector as the largest contributor to total greenhouse gas emissions at 26 percent, followed by transportation and commercial. *********************************************************************************** Two Ag Committee Incumbents Lose The House and Senate Agriculture Committees will see changes to membership during the 2025 legislative session. Farm Policy News says at least two incumbent members, New York Representative Marcus Molinaro and Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, were not re-elected. Representative Molinaro had served on the committee since his election in 2022 and lost his race to Democrat Josh Riley. On the Senate Ag Committee side, incumbent Brown lost his race to Republican challenger Bernie Moreno. There were several incumbents who won re-election, including Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican who held on to her Senate seat, besting challenger Dan Osborn. Iowa Republican Zach Nunn held onto his House seat in Iowa’s Third Congressional District. Democratic Illinois Representative Eric Sorenson is returning for a second term, as is Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat. In New Mexico, Democrat Gabe Vasquez won a second term, and Representative Jahana Hayes won re-election to the U.S. House representing Connecticut. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bailout Bill Would Cost $21 Billion Industry analysts say the Farm Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act sponsored by Mississippi Representative Trent Kelly may be too much money for Congress. The estimated $21 billion cost might make things more difficult for a new farm bill. Kelly says his bill keeps farmers in operation despite high costs and lower commodity prices, and it’s supported by a dozen of America’s biggest farm groups. Analysts in a Farmdoc Daily blog estimate that for the major commodities with a specified payment rate calculation outlined in the legislation, the FARM Act would result in $21 billion in ad hoc support payments to farmers. The bill may also be interpreted by those on Capitol Hill as evidence of U.S. farm policy shortcomings, and that may delay work on the next farm bill into 2025. Kelly’s bill allows payments of up to $350,000 per farmer. The farm program typically sets a limit of $125,000 per farmer. *********************************************************************************** Treasury Expands Foreign Land Purchase Oversight The U.S. Treasury Department issued a final rule that significantly expands its ability to review real estate transactions by foreign persons near more than 60 military bases across 30 states. The Treasury, as Chair of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), says the committee has the authority to review certain real estate transactions near specified military installations and to take the appropriate actions it deems necessary. Nearly 60 military installations will now be added to an existing list of military installations around which CFIUS has jurisdiction over real estate transactions and its jurisdiction will be extended around 10 existing installations. “We continue to use strong screening tools to advance America’s national security and protect our military installations from external threats,” says Janet Yellin, Secretary of the Treasury. She also says this final rule is a significant milestone in safeguarding critical U.S. military and defense installations. *********************************************************************************** Farmer Mac Income Jumps 23 Percent The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, or Farmer Mac, the nation’s secondary market provider that increases the accessibility of financing for agriculture and rural America, announced the recent fiscal quarter results. “Farm Mac delivered another solid quarter, demonstrating yet again the benefits of our successful efforts to continue to diversify revenue streams, taking advantage of our strong capital base and uninterrupted access to low-cost capital,” says Brad Nordholm, president and CEO of Farmer Mac. “Growth across our loan portfolio into newer lines of business and higher spread businesses continues to pay dividends through changing market cycles.” The third quarter ended on September 30, 2024, and net interest income was $86.8 million, compared to $87.6 million in the third quarter of 2023. Farmer Mac provided $2 billion in liquidity and lending capacity to lenders serving rural America. The core earnings in the report were $44.9 million, or $4.10 per diluted common share.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 7, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets FAS Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST FOMC meeting continues with interest rate decision at 1 p.m. CST followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference at 1:30 p.m. CST Weather An upper-level low in the Four Corners area is producing some heavy snow in Colorado and New Mexico early Thursday morning. Showers are forecast to expand across the southwestern Plains throughout the day with heavy rain and thunderstorms for west Texas up into Kansas. Showers continue over the Southeast as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 6, 2024 |
Pre-Election Farmer Sentiment Bounces Back October provided a surprising pre-election bounce in farmer sentiment as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 115, 27 points above the September index. The biggest driver of the sentiment improvement was an increase in producers’ confidence in the future. The Future Expectations Index jumped 30 points to 124. The Current Conditions Index also rose in October but by a smaller amount. With a reading of 95, the Current Conditions Index confirmed that farmers think economic conditions this year are worse than last year and the lowest since 2015-2016, which were the early days of a multi-year downturn in the farm economy. Producers this month expressed some optimism that economic conditions will improve and not precipitate an extended downturn in the farm economy. For example, the percentage of producers who expect bad times in the upcoming year dropped from 73 percent in September to 53 percent in October. *********************************************************************************** Industry May See Brazil as Hub for SAF Is Brazil already leading the pack in the race to produce sustainable aviation fuel? Farm Policy News says a global push to cut down carbon emissions from air travel has groups betting on Brazil to become a top global center for SAF. Developers are said to be considering putting plants in Brazil because it’s the world’s largest producer of ethanol, which can be used to produce SAF. Brazil also has an abundance of cheap crops to make biofuels, giving the South American country a leg up on competitors like the U.S. Many of Brazil’s supplies are reported to rank better in terms of carbon emissions, a key to meeting requirements for future SAF manufacturing. Organizations like Airbus, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and others put together a study on the topic, and they say preliminary data shows Brazil has the potential to produce over 13 billion gallons by 2030. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Grains Council Takes Roadshow to Mexico Staff from the U.S. Grains Council recently traveled to Mexico for the 2024 Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow. They conducted a series of informative presentations on proper grain handling and storage methods that can preserve grain quality and save money throughout the supply chain. USGC Mexico Director Heidi Bringenberg and several others spoke to end-users of U.S. feed grains in several Mexican states. “We’re excited to have seen great attendance and active participation from feed millers and beef, swine, and poultry producers during the roadshow,” Bringenberg said. “That allowed the Council to share storage and handling techniques that prevent grain quality deterioration and demonstrate value.” The Council staff members said Mexico is U.S. agriculture’s biggest trading partner, and it’s important to show purchasers and producers in the country that American farmers aren’t resting on their laurels. “We always want to support and grow the Mexican market throughout the supply chain,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for USDA’s 101st Ag Outlook Forum The USDA says registration is open for the 101st Agricultural Outlook Forum. The event titled “Meeting Tomorrow’s Challenges, Today” will be held in Washington D.C. on February 27-28, 2025. Additionally, all Forum sessions will be live-streamed on a virtual platform. The Forum will feature a presentation on the 2025 outlook for the U.S. agricultural economy and trade by USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer. The program will also include a distinguished panel of guest speakers and a number of breakout sessions organized by USDA agencies that will explore a wide range of current issues. More than 100 experts from government, industry, and academia will provide insights on key topics like commodity and food price forecasts, farm income, U.S. and global agricultural trade, the future of biofuels, climate change strategies, and advancements in biotechnology. The in-person event will also feature exhibit booths by different USDA agencies providing information about recent USDA-funded innovations. *********************************************************************************** Food for Opportunity Launches The USDA launched the Food for Opportunity Program, or FFO, designed to expand opportunities for non-traditional U.S. commodities to qualify for various international food assistance programs. Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, announced the new pilot program managed by the Foreign Agricultural Service. FAS will solicit applicants to apply for FFO and provide non-traditional commodities to be tested at active McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program projects. “The goal of Food for Opportunity is to assess the suitability of commodities for use in USDA international food assistance programs and to evaluate potential future uses,” Taylor says. In seeking stakeholder input through a Request for Information, USDA received 26 comments covering 44 commodities, foods, and items to assist with designing the FFO. In the weeks ahead, the FAS will solicit applicants to run the pilot program based on the input from the RFI. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Shearing Grants Available The American Sheep Industry Association has once again set aside $15,000 in grants to assist developing shearers and mentors. There is a large and continuing need for sheep shearers across the U.S. Domestic shearers are becoming fewer, and it is increasingly difficult to bring international shearers into the U.S. Seeing the need for more shearers for both large and small sheep operations, the ASI Wool Council developed this grant program to incentivize the development of domestic shearers. The program will support shearers as they increase the quality of their shearing and the number of sheep they shear each day, thus working to build their income and longevity in the shearing industry. Additionally, as mentors provide developing shearers with education and an avenue to shear, they may also apply for assistance under the grant program. The grant will be given to ten developing shearers and/or mentors. For information, go to sheepusa.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 6, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets USDA Livestock and Meat International Trade Data at 11 a.m. CST EIA weekly petroleum status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A front is moving from the Lower Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley where showers will continue for Wednesday. A small tropical feature will bring some heavy rain to portions of the Southeast as well. An upper-level low is settling into the Four Corners region. Heavy snow is falling in Colorado and the southwestern Plains will see several days of precipitation before the low moves northeast this weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 5, 2024 |
Lame-Duck Farm Bill Will be Difficult While the lame-duck session of Congress represents one last chance at a farm bill, industry experts say it would require compromise on a number of tricky issues. Farm Policy News says it would require House and Senate leaders to agree on spending in quite a few important areas. One report says Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow holds the key to finishing a farm bill this year. The question is whether she can work out a deal with the other major farm bill players. Some insiders say Stabenow would like one last farm bill completion as a legacy item as she isn’t running for re-election. An AgWeb report from Farm Journal says some long-time Washington contacts give the odds of getting a farm bill done at only 15 percent. A veteran farm lobbyist said the simple resolution is for Republicans to drop SNAP cut demands and Democrats to agree to higher reference prices. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota to Get SAF Plant Running by 2030 Moorhead (more head), Minnesota, will get a sustainable aviation fuel production facility up and running by 2030. A company called DG Fuels says it has patented a system to use agricultural and timber waste to produce low-carbon fuels. The plant will produce 193 million gallons of zero- or low-CO2 lifecycle emissions SAF every year, and production is slated to begin in 2030. Moorehead, in Clay County, Minnesota, is known for its productive farmland and abundant timber resources and stands to generate millions of dollars per year in additional on-farm income by converting corn stover and timber waste into a high-value SAF. The project will provide 650 quality jobs, offer a local community coordinator, and includes a comprehensive multi-million-dollar community benefits package that will enhance the county’s infrastructure, quality of life, and local strategic plan. “Adding value to our agricultural economy is a top priority,” says Moorehead Mayor Shelly Carlson. *********************************************************************************** Meaningful Assistance Could Be Coming to Farmers The Farm Assistance and Revenue Mitigation (FARM) Act was introduced last month and sponsored by more than 40 members of Congress. It’s also endorsed by several of America’s largest commodity groups, including the National Sorghum Producers. The legislation is intended to meet farmers’ immediate financial needs through economic assistance for the 2024 crop year. The proposed payment structure utilizes per-acre cost of production to provide a payment that is 60 percent of economic loss on eligible acres. With respect to payment limitations, persons or entities that derive less than 75 percent of income from farming would be subject to a limitation of $175,000. For those with at least 75 percent of their income coming from farming, they would be subject to a limitation of $350,000. The National Sorghum Producers says the potential scale of payments has sparked conversation on Capitol Hill, and this is a step in the right direction. *********************************************************************************** Organizations Collecting Donations for Ranchers Hit by Wildfires North Dakota rancher organizations are collecting donations, supplies, and labor to assist ranchers in the northwest part of the state who were devastated by wildfires in October. An estimated 120,000 acres were burned up by wildfires last month, with high winds of up to 78 miles per hour helping the fires to tear through the region. The damage was immense, with farmers and ranchers losing many head of cattle, stored feedstocks, fences, gates, hayfields, and crop fields. They also lost farmsteads, pastures, outbuildings, farmhouses, and equipment. “The investigations we are handling are ongoing and remain in the beginning stages,” says North Dakota State Fire Marshall Doug Nelson. “Early indications suggest no evidence of intentionally set fires at the scenes we have responded to.” He also says an official cause of origin report will be available when the investigation is complete. That usually takes between one to two months to wrap up. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit System Income Up Seven Percent to $5.91 Billion The Farm Credit System reported that combined net income was relatively stable at $1.98 billion for the third quarter of 2024, as compared with $2 billion for the third quarter of 2023. For the nine months ending on September 20, 2024, FCS’s combined net income increased 7.3 percent to $5.91 billion. That’s compared to $5.51 billion for the same period last year. “The System continued to achieve favorable results during the third quarter and first nine months of 2024,” says Tracey McCabe, President and CEO of the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation. “Overall credit quality remains strong, despite an increase in non-accrual loans, but results going forward may be impacted by a more challenging agricultural economic and volatile political environment.” Increases in net interest income primarily resulted from higher levels of average earning assets, driven largely by increased loan volumes and, to a lesser extent, growth in investments held for liquidity. *********************************************************************************** Voting Open for NCBA National Anthem Contest Four finalists have been selected in the 12th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is inviting the public to vote for the winner through November 15. The four finalists are Jaci Dietrick of Oklahoma, Payton Goodman of Texas, Anah Higbie of Kansas, and Hayden Ladd of Michigan. Videos of the finalists are available for viewing and voting at convention.ncba.org. The public can vote once per day per person through November 15, and the winner will be announced on November 21. The winner will perform the “Star Spangled Banner” at the Opening General Session of CattleCon 2025 and will receive round trip airfare to San Antonio, Texas, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans, and a shirt from Roper or Stetson. For more information, to register or reserve housing at CattleCon 2025, go to convention.ncba.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 5, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Trade Deficit at 7:30am CT U.S. Election Day Weather A multi-low storm that has brought widespread heavy rain to the Southern Plains into the Midwest continues to push northeast through the Great Lakes Tuesday with heavy rain and thunderstorms continuing from the Mississippi Valley into the Midwest. Another storm system in the northern Rockies will be dropping south through the mountains Tuesday as well, with some showers into the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 4, 2024 |
China Pivot from US Farm Imports Bolsters it Against Trade War Risks China's push to shift its food import sources since 2018 has put it in a better position to impose tit-for-tat tariffs on U.S. farm goods with less harm to its food security if trade friction with Washington flares after the U.S. presidential election. Reuters reports the threat of a trade war looms for China, the world's top importer of farm products such as soybeans and corn, with Republican candidate Donald Trump floating blanket 60% tariffs on Chinese goods in a bid to boost U.S. manufacturing. His opponent Kamala Harris, a Democrat, is also expected to confront China on trade. China’s pivot began in 2018, when Beijing slapped 25% tariffs on imports of U.S. soybeans, beef, pork, wheat, corn and sorghum, retaliating against duties imposed by the Trump administration on $300 billion worth of Chinese goods. China has decreased U.S. purchases, buying more grain from Brazil, Argentina, Ukraine and Australia, even as it boosts domestic production. ************************************************************************************************************* Cross-Laminated Timber Market is Projected to Reach US$ 3.7 Billion by 2032 The global cross-laminated timber (CLT) market size reached US $1.586 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 3.7 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6% during 2024-2032. Europe leads the market, accounting for the largest cross-laminated timber market share. Residential use accounts for the majority of the market share in the application segment due to the need for affordable and environmentally friendly housing options. Spruce remains the leading raw material in CLT. Wall panels remain a dominant segment in the market, as they offer superior insulation, structural integrity, and installation speed, which makes them perfect for a range of construction projects. *********************************************************************************************************** Specialty Crop Funding Will Help South Carolina Farmers In August, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced $603,000 in funding awarded to South Carolina through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Through this program, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture funds projects that strengthen South Carolina’s specialty crop industry through marketing, education, and research. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops. “Each year, we find new ways to use the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to help South Carolina farmers thrive,” said South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers. “These grants encourage growers to expand their markets, take informed risks, and grow more local crops. Supporting farmers is what it’s all about.” A full project list is available at ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp. ************************************************************************************************************* Could Biden Declare Shaver Lake a National Monument and 'Completely Change' It? Activist group Unite the Parks called on President Joe Biden to transform 1.4 million acres of Sierra National Forest land into a national monument, and it has the backing of three state lawmakers from the Valley. But three local county supervisors wrote to the president on Monday, warning him the change could undo forest management efforts, end off-road vehicle recreation and motorized boating, and possibly threaten private property rights. “A lot of the great work that has been taking place the last five or six years to just really reduce the high hazard fuels would be effectively eliminated,” said Fresno County Board Chair Nathan Magsig, and co-author of the letter to Biden. “There’s also a lot of private properties in the area that could be drawn into this (proposed) Range of Light area. And so private property rights, in my opinion, could be in jeopardy. How Shaver operates today could be completely changed.” ************************************************************************************************************* Farm Loans Soar as Ag Economy Deteriorates Farmers are taking out loans at a rate and scale not seen in years as weakened crop prices weigh on the agricultural sector, according to a report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. The volume of new operating loans increased at its fastest pace since 2017, the report said, with commercial banks issuing 40% more of these loans to farmers over last year. Farmers are not only taking out more loans, but also borrowing higher amounts. For the first time in at least two decades, loans larger than $1 million made up the majority of lending volume. Growth in loan volumes was concentrated among small and mid-sized lenders, the Federal Reserve report said, underscoring difficulties for family farms and other smaller operations without deep pockets to weather the volatility. Farmers are grappling with weakened global demand and a glut of corn and soybeans, which has contributed to a decline in the prices paid to producers. ************************************************************************************************************* New Jersey Cranberry Farms Struggle Amid Worst Drought They’ve Ever Seen The severe lack of rain means a big financial hit to operations because farmers can’t rely on the local streams and rivers to flood the bogs for harvest. Generations of the Lee family gathered this fall, as they have every year since 1868, to harvest cranberries at the Lee Brothers Farm in Chatsworth, Burlington County. Stephen V. Lee III, 78, has farmed the fruit for decades. He walked Thursday on the sand road of a bog filled with scarlet berries that bobbed at the water’s surface. Workers, including family members, stood hip-deep in the water, raking berries toward a submerged vacuum that sucked the fruit to the top of a truck. Cranberry harvesting is an annual colorful ritual in New Jersey. But this year is anything but typical. The data showed more than 12 inches of rain fell from August through October in 2022 and 2023. This year: 1.54 inches for the same period, and zero for October.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 4, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Grain Export Inspections at 10 am CT Crop Progress report at 3 pm CT Weather A front and some low-pressure centers are active across the middle of the country for Monday, causing areas of continued heavy rain and potential for severe weather across the Southern Plains. To continue the active pattern, another feature is moving into the Pacific Northwest and will be an important player for the southwestern Plains later this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 1, 2024 |
H5N1 Found in Oregon Backyard Hog Farm The National Pork Producers Council confirms there are no food safety concerns about the nation’s pork supply after H5N1 was detected this week in an Oregon backyard farm. NPPC continues to work closely with the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Veterinary Services and pork industry stakeholders on disease surveillance programs. “The confirmed case in Oregon poses no threat to consumer health or food safety as properly handled and cooked pork products remain safe for consumption,” says Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO. “The entire pork industry remains committed to safeguarding food safety and human and animal health.” With rigorous on-farm biosecurity programs in place, the pork industry has worked alongside APHIS since 2009 to carry out the swine influenza surveillance program to identify viruses circulating in swine. “Pork producers have always been proactive and diligent about implementing biosecurity plans as part of their daily production practices,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. *********************************************************************************** 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Data Now Available The 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey results showed 212,714 farms with 53.1 million irrigated acres, which included 81 million acre-feet applied in the U.S. “The 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey is conducted every five years and expands on the data collected in the 2022 Census of Agriculture,” says NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons. “The report offers detailed, comprehensive, up-to-date information specific to the agriculture industry’s use, management, and investment of water supplies and irrigation systems.” Among the report’s highlights, the total amount of water used in 2023, at 81 million acre-feet, was 2.8 percent below 2018. Five states accounted for almost one-half of the irrigated acres and more than half of all water applied – Arkansas, California, Idaho, Nebraska, and Texas. The largest portion of irrigated farmland acres in the United States was dedicated to cropland, including grains and oilseed crops, vegetables, nursery and greenhouse products, and hay crops. *********************************************************************************** Lawsuit Filed Against Mandatory Livestock Ear Tags The New Civil Liberties Alliance filed a complaint against USDA and its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The group says the new rule requiring electronically readable (EID) ear tags for certain cattle and bison transported across states lines is unlawful compared to the long-used visual tags. The NCLA, representing ranchers, farmers, and livestock producers who move cattle across state lines, urges the U.S. District Court for South Dakota to halt this illegal attempt to eliminate an already in-place efficient means of cattle identification. “USDA and APHIS are pursuing their objectives without any regard to the statutory limitations placed on them by Congress,” says Kara Rollins, Litigation Counsel for NCLA. “Sadly, in this instance, America’s ranchers have been left holding the bag and footing the bill for this unlawful rule.” NCLA says the new APHIS rule imposes punishing new financial and practical burdens, particularly on smaller and independent cattle producers. *********************************************************************************** Pork Herd Contractions Slowing in Most Regions A new Q4 2024 pork report from Rabobank says improved profitability is slowing herd contractions in most regions. However, producers are taking a cautious approach to expansion. Disease pressure in parts of Europe, South Korea, and Southeast Asia are slowing production growth, as are U.S. slaughter constraints and EU regulatory headwinds. Questions around consumer sentiment and pork demand are also weighing on expansion decisions. Political challenges are also heating up and creating a tenuous trade environment. Changes in the Mexican and Japanese administrations, a U.S. election, and the trend toward regionalized trade could create a less supportive trade environment for pork in 2025. China’s anti-dumping case against the EU also highlights the industry’s need to remain nimble. Recent labor and weather-related logistical challenges only compound trade uncertainty. While global feed levels are better than in past years, dry weather in South America and Asia may limit production in those areas. *********************************************************************************** Washington Port Expanding Rail Capacity The Federal Railroad Administration announced the Port of Kalama in Washington state was awarded over 26 million dollars for a rail expansion project. The Port of Kalama and the Tacoma Export Marketing Company (TEMCO - a joint venture by Cargill and CHS) are expanding the rail unloading and staging infrastructure at the terminal. The facility routinely experiences significant delays due to its limited tracks. An unloaded train often remains stationary due to the railroad companies not being able to quickly collect and send the cars elsewhere. Loaded trains are often held out of the facility until the empty trains are moved. The project will add 25,000 linear feet of rail track that will stage loaded or unloaded trains so the actual unloading infrastructure is free and available to operate when needed. The Port of Kalama and TEMCO estimate this will increase efficiency by 25-30 percent, especially during shipping season. *********************************************************************************** USA Awards Funds for Fertilizer and Meat Processing Projects USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that her department is making investments to strengthen America’s farms and businesses. The investments will expand innovative domestic fertilizer production and increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, which in turn will increase competition and lower fertilizer costs for farmers and food costs for consumers. The Department awarded over $120 million to six fertilizer production projects in Arkansas, California, Illinois, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin. Business owners can use the funding for help completing different tasks like modernizing equipment, adopting new technologies, and building production plants. USDA is also awarding $20 million in funding to 26 projects through the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program to help expand processing capacity within the meat and poultry industry. “When we invest in domestic supply chains, we drive down input costs and increase options for farmers,” says Torres Small. “These investments help bring jobs back to the U.S.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 1, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. employment report including unemployment rate and wage data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Brazil agency IMEA weekly soybean planting progress out early afternoon. USDA Oilseed and Grain Crushings w/ Co-Products production at 2 p.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A somewhat quieter day is expected Friday with some light showers in the Southeast and Northern Plains. The next system will start to move into the Southern Plains though and showers will be increasing, especially overnight into Saturday.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 31, 2024 |
USDA Sending Natural Disaster Aid to Farmers The USDA is issuing payments this week to agricultural producers impacted by natural disasters. The assistance includes $143 million in crop insurance indemnities for Florida producers impacted by Hurricane Milton and over $92 million for livestock producers nationwide who have faced increased supplemental feed costs as a result of forage losses due to 2022 qualifying drought and wildfire events. “Florida farmers, livestock producers, and forest landowners have been hit hard by hurricanes this year, and we’re continuing our efforts to help producers recover following hurricanes like Milton,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Additionally, payments for America’s livestock producers serve as another example of how we’re leveraging every available resource to help as many people as we can on the road to recovery.” Producers with federal crop insurance coverage through the Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index endorsement and Tropical Storm Option will see their payments from insurance providers in the next 30 days. *********************************************************************************** Lack of 45Z Guidance Already Slowing Production Reports say agricultural companies like Cargill and Bunge are slowing their soybean purchases due to uncertainty over U.S. biofuels policy. Farm Policy News says some producers are putting off some purchases of soy oil for use early next year, which is also dampening demand for soybeans. By mid-October, most fuel retailers had only bought about ten percent of their biodiesel feedstocks for the coming first quarter in 2025. That compares with more than 80 percent bought by this time of year over the past ten years. The industry is still waiting for the Treasury Department to issue guidance for the clean fuel production credit set to begin in January. Producers aren’t eager to book a lot of soybean oil until that guidance is released. Industry insiders say if the Treasury doesn’t release the regulations on the 45Z production credit, a 45-million-gallon-a-year biodiesel plant in northwest Iowa may have to idle. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Winter Wheat Health in Rough Shape To the surprise of many in the industry, the U.S. winter wheat crop is in much worse shape than they expected. Shipping News says drought has strengthened since the middle of this year throughout rural America. However, there may be a break coming as ample rains are slated for the central portion of the country during the next several days. That could mean wheat’s health struggle could be a shorter-lived issue, but it all depends on how much rain those areas receive. The most recent crop rating showed 38 percent of the winter wheat crop is in good to excellent condition, while pre-report estimates from industry analysts averaged 47 percent. Kansas, which accounts for a quarter of all U.S. winter wheat, saw its crop rating at 38 percent, two percentage points below the five-year average. Last week, around 58 percent of U.S. winter wheat areas were experiencing drought, the largest number since 2023. *********************************************************************************** Four Top Corn-Growing States Lagging in Harvest Progress Four of the top 18 corn-growing states have 65 percent or less of their corn crop harvested. Successful Farming says of those top 18 states, Pennsylvania had the lowest percentage of corn harvested as of October 27 at 50 percent. That’s still ahead of their five-year average by six percentage points and further ahead of last year’s pace that saw 34 percent of the crop harvested by late October. Colorado had harvested 58 percent of its corn crop as of October 27 and was only one percentage point behind its five-year average pace. Michigan farmers had harvested 62 percent of their corn, dramatically outpacing the five-year average of 35 percent. At this time last year, only 28 percent of the crop was harvested. Wisconsin farmers had completed 65 percent of their corn harvest compared to a five-year average of 35 percent. Wisconsin farmers had 1.01 million acres still to harvest. *********************************************************************************** Broiler Industry Provides 1.4 Million Jobs, $450 Billion Impact The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Chicken Council, the National Turkey Federation, and United Egg Producers have released an economic impact study of the poultry industry. The report highlights the positive impact the industry has on jobs, wages, and federal and state revenue in the U.S. The study breaks down the industry into three categories: broilers, turkey, and eggs. The broiler industry provides 1,376,000 jobs, $90.9 billion in wages, $36.7 billion in government revenue, and $449 billion in economic activity. “This tool shows the positive economic impact the poultry and egg industry have on our nations and communities, and we are pleased to continue providing it,” says Nath (NAYTH) Morris, president of USPOULTRY. Gary Kushner, interim president of the National Chicken Council, says, “Our chicken producers have a positive impact that stretches from coast to coast, hits every sector of the economy, and is felt in every Congressional district. *********************************************************************************** Company Transforms Organic Byproducts into Feed and Fertilizer Denali (deh-NAHL-lee), a company that recycles organics, says it has transformed over 10 billion pounds of organic byproducts into natural fertilizers. The company’s newly released sustainability report details findings from 2023. The report also shows that Denali collected 1.7 billion pounds of food waste, with 75 percent recycled into organic, nutrient-rich animal feed. The report shows that Denali’s recycling efforts produced enough natural fertilizer to support more than 100,000 acres of farmland and manufactured enough animal feed to nourish over 40,000 cattle across five states. The EPA says Denali’s converting 1.3 billion pounds of food waste into animal feed resulted in an approximate avoidance of 780,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent in 2023. This reduction is comparable to the greenhouse gas emissions produced by 185,641 gasoline-powered vehicles driven over the course of one year. Denali says its purpose is to convert organic wastes from various sources into valuable products.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 31, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets PCE Index data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT EIA Biofuels and Feedstocks Update at 11 a.m. CDT Agricultural Price Indices update at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A low-pressure center is moving from Iowa into the Great Lakes for Thursday. East and south of the low, showers and thunderstorms will continue to spread. There is a much lower chance for severe weather, but areas of heavy rain will likely occur. Near the low, rain will change to snow from Minnesota into western Wisconsin where several inches will likely accumulate. Breezy winds are also found in portions of the Midwest Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 30, 2024 |
Officials Want Accountability from USDA Congressmen Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, Brad Finstad from Minnesota, and Randy Feenstra of Iowa wrote a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack regarding Pure Prairie Poultry’s shutdown. The Minnesota company closed its doors, leaving almost 50 farmers and over two million chickens in those three states with no feed or processing options. The members highlighted the lack of oversight and accountability by USDA and requested answers from the agency on their loan and grant process, as well as what they know about Pure Prairie Poultry’s bankruptcy filing. “The USDA will answer for the $45.5 million in loans and agricultural grants given to Pure Prairie Poultry, and the company will answer for what they did with that money before they stiffed our farmers,” Van Orden says. “I’m so thankful for how our farmers put the welfare of their flocks first and am proud to advocate for them on the House Agriculture Committee. *********************************************************************************** Farm Economy Steady to Weakening While the farm economy seems to have stabilized in the Midwest and Northern Plains, it weakened in the rest of the U.S. this fall. Producers are dealing with high costs and lower commodity prices. The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book says, “Agricultural activity was flat to down modestly, with some crop prices remaining unprofitably low.” Farmers in parts of the Sixth District of Atlanta are having a hard time. Farmers in South Georgia and parts of Florida noted significant damage and losses resulting from Hurricane Helene. Chicago’s Seventh District farmers had stable farm income expectations despite above-average harvest projections. The Eighth District of St. Louis notes that while agricultural production has been stable, overall sector conditions have weakened. Ninth District – Minneapolis conditions remained stable at lower levels. Kansas City’s Tenth District says activity in the ag sector continued to decline. Contacts in the Eleventh District around Dallas continued reporting tough financial conditions. *********************************************************************************** Forty Percent of Farmers Work Off the Farm The 2022 Census of Agriculture showed about 40 percent of American farmers worked 200 or more days off the farm in 2022. The majority, 93 percent, of the 3,078 U.S. counties for which data was reported had at least 30 percent of producers working 200 or more days off the farm. Further, 83 counties (2.7 percent) had at least 50 percent of producers working off-farm for 200 days or more. For farms with at least two producers, 41 percent of those worked off-farm for 200 days or more. In comparison, 35 percent of producers on farms with only one producer did so. Off-farm work is a significant source of income for most farm households and can additionally provide health and retirement benefits. Agricultural Resource Management Survey data says over half of family farms weren’t profitable in 2022, and 84 percent of farms earned at least half their income off the farm. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: SAF Policy Questions Remain Sustainable aviation fuel could emerge as the next big opportunity for substantial growth in U.S. biofuel production with proper market and regulatory incentives. Agricultural feedstocks could play a leading role in the supply chain for domestic SAF production. However, any meaningful growth opportunities will be largely dependent on favorable policies and adequate incentives for farmers and the wider biofuels industry. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says the guidance on the 45Z tax credit will be a determining factor for the extent of agriculture’s role in SAF production. “Farmers are hopeful the new guidance will offer more flexibility than the 40B guidance did in setting on-farm conservation practices required to be eligible for the credit,” says Jacqui Fatka, an economist with CoBank. “Farmers want to be able to employ on-farm conservation practices that are applicable to their individual operations.” She also says biofuel producers won’t expand until the new guidance gets published. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections Lower Across the Board The USDA says grain and soybean inspections were lower week to week during the seven days ending on October 24. Corn assessments were reported at 823,664 metric tons, down from one million tons from the previous week. The agency says that’s still above the 541,000 tons inspected during the same week a year ago. Wheat inspections totaled 248,534 tons, down from almost 269,000 assessed during the previous week. That’s still higher than the 198,000 tons examined at the same time last year. USDA says the examinations of soybeans for offshore delivery dropped to 2.39 million tons, down from 2.55 million a week earlier. That total is still up from the 2.05 million tons inspected last year. Since the beginning of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 6.62 million metric tons of corn - higher than the 4.98 million last year - 10.4 million tons of soybeans and 9.51 million tons of wheat. *********************************************************************************** Ag Research Technology Center Breaks Ground Advances in crop production and preservation are poised for a new location as the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service broke ground for a modernized facility. The new structure will consolidate all the labs that are currently located at the University of California-Davis. The Agricultural Research and Technology Center is a cutting-edge facility that will include customized laboratories, greenhouses, and capacity for scientists as part of the ARS’s ongoing efforts to mitigate climate change, water scarcity, emerging pests, and increasing global need in support of a resilient agricultural production system. The two-story, 59,000-square-foot facility will house four ARS research units. Collectively, the units will improve the health, sustainability, and profitability of agricultural production and natural resources in California and the western United States. The building will be a nexus for scientists to investigate plant diseases, plant genetic resources, soil health, and a number of other areas driven by long-term agricultural research.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 30, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets GDP at 7:30 a.m. CDT EIA Weekly Petroleum Status report including Ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Weather A front and system have moved into the middle of the country on Wednesday and will be a focal point for producing showers and thunderstorms. Some severe weather is expected across the eastern Plains into the southwestern Midwest. Breezy winds continue around the front as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 29, 2024 |
South American Expanding Soybean Production The U.S. soybean harvest will soon finish with expected record yields. South American farmers are already working on the 2024-2025 planting season, and Farmdoc (farm dock) Daily says Argentina may see its largest soybean acreage expansion in more than a decade. Brazil’s plantings are also expected to grow, albeit at their slowest pace in ten years. This surge in supply, driven by potential record production in both countries, could further depress international soybean prices in the months ahead. Brazil’s National Supply Company, Conab (KOH-nahb), says Brazil’s soybean acreage is projected to grow by 2.8 percent, reaching 117 million acres. This marks the slowest growth in ten years, driven by lower profit margins for farmers. If weather conditions are favorable, the 2024-2025 South American soybean crop is forecasted to reach 6.1 billion bushels, a 13 percent increase over the previous harvest. The Argentinian soybean crop is projected to hit 1.91 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** Soy Growers Alarmed by EPA Action The American Soybean Association is expressing concern after the Environmental Protection Agency imposed additional restrictions on farmers in a move that seemed driven by environmental groups. A new registration for glufosinate-P was announced on October 18, but the EPA was slow in releasing the final label for that registration. The label is finally available, and with its public posting, additional unwarranted restrictions are evident. Alan Meadows, an ASA Director, says, “EPA seems to have relented to pressure from environmental groups and decided to impose additional Endangered Species Act restrictions on farmers.” In their comments, the groups claimed the number of runoff points and the size of the spray drift buffers currently required by the EPA were insufficient. “Somewhere between the draft and final registration, EPA, without explanation, tripled the number of ESA runoff points required and imposed a new 10-foot spray drift buffer that farmers must adopt to use glufosinate-P,” Meadows said. *********************************************************************************** RFA Applauds California Move on E15 The Renewable Fuels Association applauded California Governor Gavin Newsom for directing the state’s Air Resources Board to expedite the approval of E15 in the state. California is currently the only state that doesn’t allow the sales of lower-cost, low-carbon E15. In a letter to the California Air Resources Board, Newsome wrote, ”Given the potential for allowing E15 gasoline to increase the fuel supply and reduce gasoline prices with little to no environmental harm, it’s prudent for CARB to prioritize resources that would allow for the rapid completion of the process, and I am directing CARB to accelerate its action on this critical issue.” Newsom’s letter cited a recent study by economists from the University of California at Berkley and the United States Naval Academy that showed E15 could result in a twenty cents per gallon price decrease for the state’s drivers, saving California families up to $2.7 billion per year. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Down Slightly Despite the cattle inventory plummeting to the lowest level in 73 years, the number of cattle on feed remains surprisingly strong. 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 on October 1, 2024. That number is slightly below the inventory on October 1, 2023. The inventory included 7.00 million steers and steer calves, up one percent from the previous year. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.6 million head, down one percent from 2023. Feedlot placements during September totaled 2.16 million head, two percent below last year. Net placements were 2.1 million head. Fed cattle marketings in September reached 1.7 million head, two percent below 2023. The average all-fresh retail price for beef hit record highs in six of the last seven months, while the cash price paid to farmers fell from July to September. *********************************************************************************** “Now, Next, Future” Checkoff Strategy at DMI Annual Meeting Dairy Management Inc. President and CEO Barbara O’Brien outlined “Now, Next, and Future” checkoff strategies to more than 800 dairy farmers and industry representatives at their recent annual meeting. The meeting included the United Dairy Association, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, and the National Milk Producers Federation and was held in Phoenix, Arizona. O’Brien shared that consumer retail dollar spending and volume sales for dairy are increasing, up three and two percent, respectively, year to date. All categories are experiencing volume growth compared to last year. “Make no mistake, we’re experiencing what I call a dairy renaissance,” O’Brien said. “You’ve seen the headlines and heard the discussions on social media, and it’s clear the narrative is shifting, and it’s our time.” She also noted the data indicates that the millennial generation (28-43 years old) is primarily behind the dollar and volume growth based on their newfound positive perceptions of dairy. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Culls More Than One Million Birds After the sudden closure of Pure Prairie Poultry left many farmers stuck with birds they couldn’t feed, Iowa has now culled approximately 1.3 million chickens after being unable to find a market for the birds. Iowa’s Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said it euthanized birds between October 17 and October 25 due to the unavailability of buyers, a lack of processing capacity, and the costs to feed and care for the birds. The state had taken custody of the birds when the Minnesota-based company shut its doors and closed its Iowa processing plant, laying off 138 workers. Iowa had an offer from Tyson Foods to buy the birds for processing when they reach market weight. However, that offer was pulled back at the last minute after creditors threatened to sue for part of Tyson’s profits. State officials received court permission to euthanize the birds on October 11.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 29, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Case-Shiller Home Price Index at 8am CT Consumer Confidence and Job Openings at 9am CT Livestock and Meat Domestic Data from ERS at 2pm CT Weather A storm system is moving into the Plains on Tuesday morning, which will be the first of several that will move through over the next 10 days or so. Scattered showers have already started in the Northern Plains, with more widespread showers and thunderstorms forecast to develop later Tuesday and Tuesday night across the Central and Southern Plains into the Upper Midwest. It may be cold enough for snow around Wyoming while winds increase in the country's midsection as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 28, 2024 |
Nearly Three-Quarters of Louisiana in Exceptional Drought Drought conditions are worsening in Louisiana, where cattle producers say some land has deep cracks that can break ankles and water troughs have been put out where they’ve never been needed before. Exceptional drought conditions continue to impact nearly three-quarters of the state of Louisiana. Cattle producers say some land has deep cracks that can break ankles and water troughs have been put out where they’ve never been needed before. Shannon Midkiff, a cow-calf producer in DeRidder, Louisiana, says the drought has impacted his operation “tremendously” this year. Midkiff says not only has his herd been affected, but he’s seeing the economic strain of the drought. He was only able to grow and harvest 25% of the hay that he normally produces to feed his herd through the winter months. As a result, Midkiff says he’s had to outsource hay and purchase grain mixes. *********************************************************************************** Corn Farmers Facing Worst Year Since 2007 Corn farmers could be in for their worst year in close to two decades, economists say, as the Federal Reserve reports that crop prices remain “unprofitably low” in its latest assessment of economic conditions. Last week’s Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book largely “confirmed things we were already thinking,” Michael Langemeir, a professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University, told Agriculture Dive, with dismal crop prices standing in stark contrast to the strong livestock sector. “This is one of the worst years” for corn and sorghum prices since the ethanol boom began in 2007, says Langemeier. High input costs following COVID-19 have created more of a difficult environment for row croppers, though the decline in crop prices has provided a boon to the livestock industry by lowering feed costs. *********************************************************************************** Pesticides Detected in California Air Samples; Environmentalists Alarmed California state regulators report that they have found detectable levels of pesticides floating in the air in multiple, large farming regions. Although state officials insist that none of the samples exceeded safe limits, environmentalists and anti-pesticide activists say the compounds pose a far greater risk than the state is willing to acknowledge. According to a new state report, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, or CDPR, collected weekly air samples last year in Oxnard, Santa Maria, Shafter and Watsonville, and found pesticides in nearly 80% of the samples. Environmental groups say the testing demonstrates that these chemicals are drifting into nearby communities and being inhaled by passersby. The compounds have been linked to a variety of health conditions, including respiratory illness, neurological issues and some types of cancers, they say. All detected pesticides were found below state-established health limits, meaning they are “unlikely to be harmful to human health,” according to the CDPR air monitoring report. ***************************************************************************************************** American Family Farms Going Broke Across the country, skyrocketing prices, wages and operating costs have shuttered hundreds of thousands of American farms. MSN reports in the past five years alone, over 140,000 American farms have tilled for the last time. Going back to 1950, 66% of all U.S. farms — 3.75 million farms in total — have stopped producing. The number of acres farmed has dropped by 323 million, which is roughly double the size of Texas. Agriculture experts worry as family farms across America gasp to stay afloat and go broke. “We have been losing family farmers at an alarming rate for 50 years now, and every time we go through these cycles like we are currently in, we lose more,” according to Scott Blubaugh, the president of American Farmers & Ranchers/Oklahoma Farmers Union. Agricultural economist Cesar Escalante said it’s the smaller farms that suffer because their backs are against the wall. *********************************************************************************** Riskiest States for Countryside Driving Wyoming has been identified as the most dangerous state for rural motoring, with a worrying 19.76 rural crash fatalities per 100,000 residents. This rate starkly contrasts with Massachusetts, which recorded the safest rate at just 0.43 fatalities per 100,000. These results are from a recent study conducted by Lucky Gambler and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the focus was placed on the dangers of driving on rural roads across the United States in 2022. Mississippi and Montana followed as the second and third most dangerous states, with rural crash fatality rates of 15.87 and 15.49 respectively. Farms dot com reports these figures highlight the heightened risk associated with driving in less urbanized areas. The study further lists South Dakota, South Carolina, and Arkansas among the top ten most perilous states for rural drivers, all exceeding 11 crash fatalities per 100,000 residents in rural settings. These statistics underscore the disproportionate number of fatalities occurring on rural versus urban roads in these regions. *********************************************************************************** Chiquita Ordered to Pay $38 Million in Wrongful Death Case A federal judge entered judgment against Chiquita Brands International, Inc. for $38.3 million, confirming a jury’s June 2024 verdict. The compensation is for the wrongful deaths of seven Colombian nationals, which a jury found were caused by Chiquita’s financial and material support to violent terrorist groups in Colombia. The six-week trial concluded with a unanimous verdict against the company. AgNet West reports U.S. District Judge Kenneth Marra had delayed the final judgment to consider Chiquita’s argument that Colombian law, which would limit compensation to $52,000 per claim, should apply. However, the court rejected Chiquita’s interpretation, ruling that even if such limits existed under Colombian law, they would not apply to a U.S. corporation. This landmark decision marks the first time a U.S. corporation has been held liable in an American court for human rights violations committed against foreign nationals outside U.S. borders.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 28, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 am CT Crop Progress at 3 pm CT Weather A storm system is moving through the western states on Monday, bringing some showers there, but also is the start of a much more active pattern for the middle of the country. Warm temperatures are building while winds will start to pick up this afternoon in the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 25, 2024 |
Mississippi River System Levels Dropping For the third year in a row, the Mississippi River is experiencing low water levels during harvest season. In the spring and early summer, precipitation and water levels were quite robust. Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says once the calendar moved past mid-July, precipitation decline significantly, which caused a steady and dramatic decrease in water levels. There was a brief rise in water levels near Memphis after Hurricane Helene, but once the surge of water passed through the system, those water levels quickly returned to where they were earlier. “In certain areas of the river, we’re seeing several feet of draft reductions due to the low water,” Steenhoek says. “For each foot of draft reduction on the river, each barge carries 7,000 fewer bushels of soybeans, which is roughly 200 tons.” The draft is the distance between the waterline and the lowest part of the hull. *********************************************************************************** Trials for H5N1 Vaccine Beginning in South Dakota Medegene, a South Dakota based animal health company, has begun a field trial for their H5N1 vaccine in cattle. The trial began earlier this month at a contract research facility. The goal of the field trial is to demonstrate a reasonable expectation of efficacy and preliminary safety in animals specific to the company’s vaccine, data that would support a conditional license by the USDA. Dr Alan Young is co-founder and Chief Testing Officer for Medegene. “As unfortunate as the H5N1 spread is, this is exactly the kind of situation our technology was created to address,” Young says. “Our goal from the very beginning of this outbreak was to be ready for our cattle customers whenever the USDA gave us the green light.” The company’s H5N1 cattle vaccine study is expected to be complete in five weeks, with results then shared with the USDA. Medegene is based in Brookings, South Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Double Cover Crops by 2030 Farmers for Soil Health is a group that empowers farmers to lead the charge in sustainability. The group puts real money directly into their hands to drive change where it matters most: at the farm level. FFSH has an initiative program to offer an opportunity for farmers to make a meaningful impact on soil health while benefiting financially. In the program’s first year alone, 238 farmers enrolled over 78,000 acres, pushing the initiative closer to its goal of doubling cover crop adoption to 30 million acres across the U.S. by 2030. Participating farmers who plant cover crops get payments to help transition totaling $50 per new acre over cover crops planted over a span of three years. Farmers with existing cover crops can get a one-time payment of $2,000 per acre. Farmers in 20 states are eligible for enrollment in the cost-share programs. For more information go to farmersforsoilhealth.com. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Annual Meeting Spotlights H5N1 Vigilance U.S. dairy farmers are staying resilient in the face of H5N1 influenza outbreaks while advancing in policy areas like nutrition and milk pricing. Those remarks came from NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney at the organization’s annual meeting in Phoenix. The meeting was held jointly by NMPF, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, and the United Dairy Industry Association. “With everything we do, the future is going to take a level of cooperation and coordination from all of us,” said Mooney, a Missouri dairy farmer. “We’ve had that, but it’s going to take more than we’ve ever had.” In the past year, dairy producers have grappled with HPAI and delays in a farm bill that expired in September even as milk prices have risen and consumer demand stayed strong. Underpinning the entire industry is USDA’s plan for Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization, which is likely to get voted on early next year. *********************************************************************************** Dietary Guideline Recommendations a Mixed Bag for Pork The National Pork Producers Council expressed concerns about the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s latest report. The group criticized the lack of a scientific basis for recommending plant proteins as a replacement for animal proteins. “While pork producers support the Committee’s recommendation to increase protein intake, their recommendation to replace animal proteins will severely compromise the America diet, as plant proteins aren’t nearly as nutritionally rich.” The Committee recommended moving beans, peas, and lentils from the vegetable group to the protein group. NPPC says this is deceiving to Americans as there are essential nutrients in animal proteins that plant proteins don’t provide. This also puts at risk infants, young children, adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women, and older adults, as they require higher amounts of protein and nutrients that are provided by animal-based proteins. NPPC will continue to engage with the Departments as a scientific voice for the U.S. pork industry. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Producers Climate-Smart Grant Producer Program Accepting Enrollments The American Lamb Board has received a USDA Climate-Smart Commodities Grant to measure the benefits of targeted sheep grazing on carbon sequestration, soil health, and related ecosystem services. This program allows up to 150 sheep producers to participate and expand climate-smart practices beyond the initial four plot sites. Among the program requirements, producers will work with Technical Assistance Providers to develop operational plans, implement climate-smart practices, and organize farm data to assess emissions. Producers can receive up to $7,000 to support their participation in climate-smart management and emissions reporting efforts. To qualify for the program payment, producers must meet several requirements, including establishing farm records with the USDA Farm Service Agency. “This Climate-Smart Grant offers a valuable opportunity for producers to adopt sustainable practices, enhance their farm’s long-term productivity, and receive financial support to offset costs,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. For more information or to sign up, go to lambboard.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 25, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Food Price Outlook at 8 am CT Consumer Sentiment at 9 am CT Cattle on Feed and Cold Storage at 2 pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders at 2:30 pm CT Weather A system is moving through the Midwest Friday morning with scattered showers. However, the system is weakening and showers will be more sporadic by the afternoon. Some cooler air is moving in behind the system, but only briefly.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 24, 2024 |
Fall Harvest Double Digits Ahead of Last Year’s Pace Reports show the U.S. corn and soybean harvests are double digits ahead of their five-year averages. Farm Policy News credits the fast pace to dry weather stretched across most of the U.S. through the past week. Corn harvest jumped 18 points nationally to 65 percent complete as of last Sunday, 13 percent over the five-year average. Soybean harvest slowed a little over the past week but still rose 14 percent to reach 81 percent completed as of last Sunday. Industry reports say the soybean harvest is moving along at its fastest pace in 14 years, and the corn harvest is moving at the fastest pace since 2021. The quick harvest pace and crop size is putting a strain on physical storage capacities for many grain handlers. As the dry weather continues accelerating the harvests, some grain handlers are forced to store their corn outside rather than in harvest bins. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Exporters Rushing to Get Shipments Sent Out Grain merchants are racing to ship out a record-large harvest ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Marine Link says fears of renewed trade tensions with China, the top soybean importer, are driving the push. USDA data released earlier this week says almost 2.5 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans were inspected for export the previous week, including almost 1.7 million tons headed to China, the largest amount in the last year. Prices are hovering near four-year lows, and if this heightened export demand doesn’t last, that may leave the U.S. with a glut of oilseeds. Tariff threats are causing some Chinese importers to not take U.S. shipments from January 2025 onward. Buyers are said to be looking to Brazil’s soy crop. They’re paying up to 40 cents a bushel more than they would in the U.S. in a quicker than expected seasonal shift that’s shrinking the U.S. export window. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Slams Dietary Guidelines Recommendations The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association slammed the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s unhinged recommendations that replace high-quality protein like beef with beans, peas, and lentils. “The preview of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee stands out as one of the most out-of-touch, impractical, and elitist conversations in the history of the process,” says NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “After 22 months of public discussion and lip service to transparency, we are disappointed by the number of chaotic new directions proposed at the literal last minute.” He also says NCBA laughs at the suggestion that beans, peas, and lentils are going to replace lean red meat and fill all the nutrient gaps Americans are facing, noting that it’s a dangerous and deceptive idea. “Beef contributes only five percent of the calories in the American diet but more than five percent of essential nutrients like potassium,” says NCBA Registered Dietitian Dr. Shalene McNeil. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Welcomes New Legislation on Clean Fuel Production The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition applauded the introduction of the Expanding Clean Fuel Production Act. SAF Coalition Executive Director Alison Graab says the legislation would extend the Section 45Z clean fuel production credit for ten years. Graab appreciates the effort to extend incentives for sustainable aviation fuel. “We look forward to advancing sustainable aviation fuel to demonstrate a clear commitment to the environmental and economic promises that SAF holds, and incentives that are durable and attract investment are essential to unlocking the potential and driving the progress needed to grow the SAF industry,” she says. Representative Brad Schneider of Illinois, a bill co-sponsor, says a ten-year extension would allow sustained investment in production to accelerate the transition to cleaner fuels and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation industry. “We’re already seeing the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act’s investments in U.S. production of sustainable fuels,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Down Two Percent, Milk Production Slightly Higher U.S. egg production totaled 8.92 billion during September 2024, down two percent from the same time last year. Production included 7.65 billion table eggs and 1.27 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.18 billion were broiler-type and 91.3 million were egg-type. The average number of layers in the U.S. during September totaled 375 million, down three percent from last year. September egg production per 100 layers was 2,381 eggs, up one percent from September 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on October 1, 2024, were at 377 million, two percent below last year. September milk production in the 24 highest-producing states reached 17.5 billion pounds in September, 0.2 percent higher than September 2023. Production per cow in the 24 states averaged 1,966 pounds for September, eight pounds higher than September 2023. The number of milk cows on farms in those 24 states totaled 8.89 million head, 200,000 less than in September 2023. *********************************************************************************** Pork Industry Scholarship Applications Open The National Pork Producers Council is accepting 2025 Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship applications. Ten $2,500 scholarships are awarded annually to college students who intend to pursue a career in the pork industry and aspire to become leaders in the industry. CME Group and the National Pork Industry Foundation sponsor the scholarships. “The strength of America’s pork industry lies in the hands of its future leaders,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President and Minnesota pork producer. The scholarship program honors NPPC’s former board director Lois Britt, a lifetime supporter of agriculture and member of the NPPC Pork Industry Hall of Fame. Any undergraduate student enrolled in a two-year swine program or four-year college of agriculture may apply. Applicants are evaluated by essay submissions that describe current or future issues confronting the pork industry with proposed solutions. For more information on the scholarships or to apply, go to nppc.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 24, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Grain Export Sales report at 7:30 am CT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 am CT S&P flash U.S. service and manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index at 8:45 am CT Livestock and Poultry Slaughter at 2 pm CT Weather A small system is exiting the Rockies into the Northern and Central Plains Thursday morning. While showers are rather unimpressive early Thursday morning, they should grow throughout the day, including some risk of thunderstorms across Minnesota down through northeast Kansas by the evening as the storm continues east overnight.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 23, 2024 |
Many Economists Believe Ag is in a Recession Over half of the 70 ag economists surveyed in Farm Journal’s Monthly Survey of Ag Economists believe the U.S. agriculture economy is in a recession. Seventy-five percent of the other economists believe the ag economy is on the brink of a recession. The 75 percent of economists who believe the ag economy is on the brink of a recession is up from the 56 percent who responded that way in the previous month’s survey. Michael Langemeier of Purdue University is one of the economists who say it’s in a recession and says he defines the current recession as one of the worst we’ve seen in the last 20 years. “So my short answer to the question is yes,” Langemeier says. “Just looking at where the prices are currently at, this is the worst year we’ve seen since 2007.” Producer expectation levels have dropped back to those last seen in 2016. *********************************************************************************** USDA Begins Issuing Funds to Producers USDA will issue more than $2.14 billion in payments to eligible agricultural producers and landowners, providing much-needed support through conservation and farm safety-net programs. Producers should soon receive payments from the Farm Service Agency for their participation in these programs aimed at conserving natural resources and keeping family farms economically viable. Program participants are expected to receive more than $1.7 billion through the Conservation Reserve Program and CRP Transition Incentive Program. The agency will also send out more than $447 million through the ARC and PLC programs. Additionally, FSA will invest another $21 million for projects to better measure the effectiveness of CRP. “Conservation and safety net program payments are significant investments in preserving and protecting our valuable and vulnerable natural resources and they provide protection for producers impacted by market volatilities,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “These programs support voluntary land stewardship and producers with risk protection and stability.” *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Possible in Four Washington Farm Workers The Centers for Disease Control is sending a team to Washington state after reports surfaced of four workers who were thought to potentially have bird flu. They were culling poultry that were suffering from bird flu infection and are presumed to have caught the virus. If the infections are confirmed, Reuters says that would make Washington the sixth state to identify human cases this year. A spokesman says the CDC is sending the team to support the state’s assessment of the farm workers. The risk to the public from the outbreak in cattle remains low, but those with exposure to infected animals are at heightened risk. Washington’s health department says the workers’ use of protective gear was inconsistent as they were working at an infected egg farm hit by a strain from wild birds. Nationwide, 27 people had tested positive for the virus this year before the cases in Washington. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn, Soybean Inspections Jump A USDA report says inspections of corn and soybeans jumped week to week while wheat assessments declined during the week ending on October 17. Corn inspections rose to almost one million metric tons, up from 506,000 the prior week and 472,000 tons during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for overseas delivery also jumped to 2.43 million metric tons, up from 1.91 million tons the previous week. However, that total was lower than the 2.63 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat inspections dropped to 268,000 tons, down from 380,000 the week before but still notably higher than the 170,000 tons assessed at the same point in 2023. Since the marketing year began, USDA has inspected 5.79 million metric tons of corn, higher than in 2023 at the same time. Soybean inspections are at 7.9 million metric tons, down from 8.1 million in 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Boost Wildlife Protection The USDA will boost wildlife habitat protection as the Biden administration enters its final months. In a department memo issued Monday, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack directed agencies to coordinate more closely on protecting lands across different types of ownership, including making wildlife habitat a high priority in various conservation programs. In the memorandum, Vilsack said many animals rely on vast swaths of connected habitat that can be broken by development or disrupted by disease outbreaks, among many other factors. Agency officials told reporters during a conference call that protecting those landscapes can coincide with agricultural production such as ranching, and he says it involves an array of USDA initiatives like the Conservation Reserve Program. The agency’s goal is to improve terrestrial wildlife habitat connectivity and corridors in a way that recognizes and leverages state and Tribal authorities, capitalizes on public land management, and respects property rights through voluntary conservation efforts. *********************************************************************************** High-Quality Wheat Detailed in Crop Report As a key part of its commitment to transparency and service, U.S. Wheat Associates has produced the 2024 U.S. Crop Quality Report that includes grade, flour, dough, and baking data for five of the six U.S. wheat classes. This report provides essential and objective information to help buyers get the wheat they need at the best possible value. The 2024 Crop Quality Report is now available for download. “After the past few challenging years, my colleagues and the farmers we represent are glad to say that there is good production and quality news about U.S. Wheat Supplies,” says USW President Vince Peterson. “The 2024 report shows the larger new crop offers our customers the milling and baking qualities needed to produce the highest quality wheat foods, and greater opportunity to thrive in the coming year.” USW will also share quality information in person through Crop Quality Seminars in other countries.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 23, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Existing Home Sales at 9 am CT EIA's Weekly Petroleum Status w/ Ethanol production at 9:30 am CT Broiler Hatchery at 2 pm CT Weather A dry front sagging through the northern half of the country is bringing in a sharp drop in temperatures, though most areas are still near or even above normal for late October. Meanwhile, heat continues in the south and will rebound in the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 22, 2024 |
Biofuel Groups Welcome Supreme Court Decision on SREs The Renewable Fuels Association and Growth Energy were pleased with a Supreme Court decision on Small Refinery Exemptions. They issued a joint statement saying the Fifth Circuit Court wasn’t the right venue to hear challenges on small refinery exemptions. “Because the Fifth Circuit opinion set up a clear split with several other courts on the venue question, this is precisely the sort of issue that the Supreme Court is meant to resolve,” the statement says. “The court has agreed, and we look forward to participating in the case and settling the issue for good.” The groups also say the refining community’s abuse of small refinery exemptions destroys demand for biofuels nationwide, which negatively impacts farmers and bioethanol producers regardless of where they operate. “The economic and environmental impact of this abuse does not recognize state lines,” the groups add. “The decision in this case should give producers some much-needed certainty.” *********************************************************************************** AFT Collaborates with Real Farmer Care American Farmland Trust will collaborate with Real Farmer Care as the fiscal sponsor to support and advance farmer and rancher self-care and well-being. The Real Farmer Care’s founding mission is to support farmers’ self-care needs and allocate donated funds directly to farmers and ranchers as $100 self-care awards. Self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting and improving one’s well-being and happiness, particularly during stressful times. Self-care activities can be inexpensive but rarely get prioritized. “As rigors in responsibilities and challenges continue for farmers, it's critical that now more than ever they have the resources at hand to improve their well-being,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (pee-AHT-tee). “AFT could not be any more grateful to Real Farmer Care in this alliance to promote healthy farmer and rancher mental health.” For more information, go to Real Farmer Care or American Farmland Trust. *********************************************************************************** Organic Growers Summit 2024 in December The Organic Growers Summit is set for December 4-5, 2024. The show is put on by Farm Progress and features a lineup of expert-led seminars, industry-leading speakers, and a special keynote panel. Attendees will get insight into the evolving organic market, including education on ag technology, soil health, innovations, and government regulations. The event’s keynote panel will provide insights into the future of organic farming. Matt Jungmann of Farm Progress says this year’s revamped schedule gives Organic Grower Summit attendees a unique chance to connect with industry experts in the field and on the retail side, explore innovations, and learn how to make their operations more efficient and profitable. To view the seminars and to register, go to the show’s official website at organicgrowersummit.com. Other presentations include a whole-systems approach to managing pests and weeds and answering the question of whether Ag tech will make organic more profitable. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook The USDA’s beef production outlook is noticeably higher from September. Third- and fourth-quarter 2024 production is forecast to be higher than last month, raising the annual forecast to 27 billion pounds, just above 2023 production. U.S. dairy milk production is expected to decline in 2024 due to lower yields from aging cows, adverse weather, and limited replacements. Imports are expected to increase while exports remain mostly stable. Projected broiler production is adjusted down slightly in 2024 on recent slaughter data but revised upward in 2025 on favorable hatchery indicators and feed prices. Projected broiler exports were adjusted down in 2024 and 2025 on recent data and strong global competition. Wholesale broiler price expectations are higher based on recent price data and strong demand expectations. Projected turkey exports in 2024 were also adjusted down slightly. Projected turkey prices were adjusted down for the fourth quarter of 2024 and in 2025 based on weaker demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Funds for Food and Nutrition Security The USDA announced an investment of more than $46 million in projects aimed at tackling food and nutrition insecurity in underserved communities. The funds also support healthy diets by providing more access to fruits and vegetables for eligible families. “Healthy, safe, and affordable food is essential for a strong start for children and a healthy life for all of us,” says USDA Deputy Ag Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “With these funds, we’re investing in healthy food options for people no matter where they live and supporting stronger local and regional food systems.” Funding for 20 projects under the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program brings together stakeholders from distinct parts of the food system and fosters an understanding of national food security trends and how they might work together to improve local food systems. This investment is expected to help catalyze small production agriculture and increase food access for low-income Americans. *********************************************************************************** Grocery Store Shopping is Changing In 2022, the USDA’s Economic Research Service Eating and Health Module captured the first nationally representative data about how many U.S. residents grocery shop online. The data featured in the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey revealed that about one in five shoppers purchased groceries online at least once in the 30 days prior to the survey. ERS researchers performed an analysis to look at the differences in the likelihood of online grocery shopping within the past month among a wide variety of personal characteristics. The largest disparity among any of these characteristics was the difference in an individual’s education level, from nine percent for those with less than a high school diploma to 26 percent of those with more than a bachelor’s degree. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher were 17 percentage points more likely to buy groceries online.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 22, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Cotton Ginnings at 11 am CT Weather A small upper-level low that produced some streaks of heavier rain in the Central Plains on Monday is falling apart as it moves into the Midwest, but there will still be a few showers Tuesday. A stronger front is moving through the Northern Plains and will cruise through the Upper Midwest as well, bringing down temperatures significantly from Monday and offering some limited showers of its own. Otherwise, very warm and dry conditions continue for most of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 21, 2024 |
Drought Conditions Persist in Wisconsin The majority of Wisconsin is experiencing abnormally dry to severe drought conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. When I looked at the weather maps for the next two weeks, I was struck by how dry it’s supposed to be, according to Wisconsin State Climatologist Steve Vavrus. Even with the strong cold front over the weekend, which often brings rainfall when you have that big of a temperature change, it still looks like a pretty dry one. While dry, warm weather has been beneficial for harvest progress, Vavrus thinks conditions could become too much of a good thing. If we don’t get rain pretty soon, we’re going to start being a little concerned about soil moisture going into next year’s growing season. Once you get into late fall and winter, whatever the soil moisture is in place at that point locks in and that’s what you’re stuck with come spring next year. ************************************************************************************* Distressed Agricultural Borrowers Get $250 Million in USDA Assistance The Department of Agriculture announced an additional $250 million in automatic payments for distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers under Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act. With the assistance more than 4,600 producers across the country will see another production season, said Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency administrator. Some 4,650 financially distressed farmers who owe money on USDA direct and guaranteed loans will share $250 million in payments from the government. USDA said it has provided roughly $2.4 billion in assistance, including that announced last week, to 43,900 distressed borrowers with funding from the 2022 climate, healthcare, and tax law. The new round of money will go to borrowers who did not receive assistance previously. It would be split into $235 million for delinquent loans and $15 million for borrowers with shared appreciation agreements on their guaranteed loans. ************************************************************************************* AFT Distributes Over $700,000 to Farmers Nationwide American Farmland Trust announced the disbursement of over $700,000 to 139 farmers across the United States through this year’s Brighter Future Fund. Over 50% of those awarded identified as beginning farmers, with 30% being under 34 years of age. And over 60% of those awarded identified as women. Grants were awarded to help these farmers invest in professional services, vital equipment and infrastructure with a special emphasis on improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. Over half of those awarded have projects focused on projects focused on improving the overall viability of their farms. Additional grants were made available this year to farmers and ranchers affected by the historic Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle. The funds will allow farmers to rebuild and replace infrastructure, equipment, cattle, and more that were destroyed in the early 2024 wildfires. ************************************************************************************* Self-Driving Tractors May Help Fill Agriculture’s Labor Shortage A farm in Sonoma County, California had 27 tractor driver positions open and posted the positions on various job boards. The farm didn’t get a single applicant for weeks. A few weeks later, the owners onboarded an autonomous tractor system for the farm and updated the job listing to say they were looking for an agtech operator position. In the preferred qualifications they listed “video game experience.” The applications came rolling in. “You’ve opened up a whole new workforce for agriculture,” Tim Bucher, CEO of the ag startup Agtonomy, said. “One that’s never driven a tractor before.” Tractor giant Deere and software startup Agtonomy have emerged as some of the major players driving the autonomous revolution. While the two companies are focused on different sectors in agriculture, their end goals are the same: Helping farmers make more money by making smarter decisions about their operations. There’s obviously struggles with labor shortages around the country, and so people are always looking at ways to how they can get more done in the shortest amount of time, said John Deere’s Micheal Porter, ************************************************************************************* ARS Studying Precision AG Applications in Arid Regions One of the main challenges of irrigating crops is that available water sources contain salt. Over time, repeated waterings from these sources lead to salt accumulation, damaging soil fertility. This issue is especially acute in the arid and semi-arid regions found in much of the western United States. To address the issue, the Agricultural REsearch Service’s Agricultural Water Efficiency and Salinity (AWES) Research Unit in Riverside, California are using remote sensing and precision technology to aid growers in arid regions. They are beginning to apply the techniques of digital and precision agriculture to help growers provide their crops with the water they need without harming them, or the soil, in the process. One approach is to develop crops with a higher salt tolerance, including working to understand that trait at a genetic level. Researchers have also leveraged remote sensing data from satellites to inform their picture of salinity levels in fields. They have used remote sensing data from satellites to inform their picture of salinity levels in fields. ************************************************************************************* Ag Industry Groups File Suit in Challenge of H-2A Rule The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) and nine co-plaintiffs filed a lawsuit contesting the U.S. Department of Labor’s regulatory overreach and limitations on the freedom of speech of farmers who employ temporary workers. “DOL is exacerbating an already enormously challenging labor crisis for growers and agriculture employers across the country. This lawsuit challenges the unauthorized process through which DOL passed this rule and the unlawful and unconstitutional impacts it has on American agriculture employers,” says IFPA CEO Cathy Burns The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of Mississippi with representation, requests a permanent injunction of DOL’s Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States. In August, the court in Kansas v. U.S. Department of Labor – a similar case in the 11th Circuit brought by 17 state attorneys general, the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, and Miles Berry Farm – found the rule unconstitutional and enjoined DOL from enforcing it within the 17 states.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 21, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets USDA Food Expenditure data at 8 am CT Grain export inspections at 10 am CT U.S. Leading Economic Indicators at 11 am CT Crop Progress at 3 pm CT Weather An upper-level low is moving through the Plains Monday morning bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some pockets of good rain will fall, but most areas will see insufficient amounts. A front will be moving into the Northern Plains with some areas of showers there through Monday night as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 18, 2024 |
U.S. Loss Would Be South America’s Gain A new economic study paints a troubling picture of the potential results a new U.S.-China trade war could have on hundreds of thousands of rural communities. It shows that American-imposed tariffs would come at a steep cost to American farmers and ranchers while benefiting Brazil and Argentina. The study was commissioned by the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association and showed an immediate drop in corn and soy exports to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. Brazil and Argentina would immediately step in to claim the lost market share. “The study highlights the dangers that come with broad tariffs on imports,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “While launching tariffs may seem like an effective tool, they will boomerang and cause unintended consequences.” ASA Chief Economist Scott Gerit says the study shows a significant trade war would easily compound the challenges placing stress on America’s producers. *********************************************************************************** AgriSafe Network Steps Up Support for Hurricane-Hit Communities Hurricanes Helene and Milton had devastating impacts on the southeastern United States. Communities in many states are facing unprecedented challenges. Many areas were left in ruins, including severed communication lines and local support systems struggling to respond to the crisis. In recognition of the critical need for mental health support during these challenges, AgriSafe is offering FarmResponse® training seats at no cost to those providing counseling services to ag communities affected by the hurricane. This training will assist in providing the best possible care to the state’s agricultural communities impacted by disasters. It’s vital to not skip mental health while trying to make a physical recovery. AgriSafe’s FarmResponse program equips health professionals to foster resilience and instill hope in agricultural communities that are in desperate need of both. For more information and to access open seats, go to agrisafe.org. FarmResponse is listed in the Suicide Prevention Resources Best Practices Registry. *********************************************************************************** AEM Tour Concludes in Wisconsin The AEM Manufacturing Express concluded its cross-country tour when it returned home to Wisconsin for final stops. The tour launched on July 1 and traveled across 22 states, celebrating the 2.3 million men and women of the U.S. equipment manufacturing industry and highlighting their roles in building, powering, and feeding the world. The tour, launched by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, stopped at 80 equipment manufacturers across the Midwest, Southeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions. “The AEM Manufacturing Express has been a unique platform to celebrate the grit and determination of the men and women in the equipment manufacturing industry,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. Throughout the tour, AEM showcased the cutting-edge technology and innovations that drive the industry. Each stop featured an interactive experience called the “Manufacturing Challenge” that gave people the chance to test their knowledge. Participating manufacturers included companies like AGCO, CNH Industrial, Deere and Company, Kubota, and many others. *********************************************************************************** Gevo Receives $1.5 Billion for SAF Plant in South Dakota Gevo (JEE-voh) Inc., a developer of net-zero hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals, received a conditional commitment for a loan guarantee with disbursements totaling $1.46 billion from the Department of Energy. The funds will be used for a Net-Zero 1 project in Lake Preston, South Dakota. The facility will use 100 percent U.S.-sourced feedstocks and is designed to produce approximately 60 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel, about 1.3 billion pounds of protein and animal feed products, and approximately 30 million pounds of corn oil per year. “This marks a watershed moment for the Net-Zero 1 project and a critical step forward in our mission to transform the aviation industry by providing a sustainable and economical renewable carbon-based jet fuel,” says Gevo CEO Patrick Gruber. A recent report shows the facility will create over 100 direct jobs and hundreds of local indirect jobs, with an economic impact of more than $100 million. *********************************************************************************** Connecting More Rural Americans to High-Speed Internet USDA’s Undersecretary of Rural Development, Dr. Basil Gooden, announced nearly $173 million in funding to connect rural residents, farmers, and business owners in the Dakotas and eight other states to high-speed internet. “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs,” Gooden says. “Thanks to the ReConnect Program, we are connecting the most rural and remote communities in our country to a global marketplace.” He also says the funding will drive economic security and rural prosperity for generations to come. The ReConnect Program is designed specifically to fund the most difficult high-speed internet projects in the nation in the most rural, remote, and unserved communities. The USDA has invested more than $4 billion in 345 ReConnect Projects that will help bring high-speed, reliable internet access to more than 600,000 people throughout rural America. *********************************************************************************** Turkey Production Down From 2023 The USDA says turkey eggs in incubators in the United States as of October 1, 2024, were down nine percent from October 1 of last year. Eggs in incubators were down two percent from the September 1, 2024, total of 25 million eggs. Turkey poults hatched during September 2024 in the U.S. totaled 20.4 million, down five percent from September 2023. Poults hatched were down one percent from the August 2024 total of 20.7 million poults. The 18.2 million net poults placed in September 2024 in the United States were down five percent from the number placed during the same month a year earlier. Net poult placements were down ten percent from the August 2024 total of 20.1 million. As far as feed options in the future, a 2024-2025 USDA Feed Outlook is for reduced supplies despite an increase in output. Sorghum supplies were raised but offset by lower corn carry-in.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 18, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Weekly export sales out at 7:30 am CT Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook out at 2 pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders report out at 2:30 pm CT Weather Warm air continues to spread eastward through the country on Friday. A front has moved into the Plains and will produce some areas of showers as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 17, 2024 |
USDA Makes Indemnity Payments After Hurricane Helene Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced additional assistance to help producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in their recovery process. USDA is announcing that counties that have triggered for payment under the Hurricane Insurance Protection Wind Index (HIP-WI) endorsement for Hurricane Helene. As a result, Approved Insurance Providers have 30 days to issue payments to producers, but those providers typically issue payments much sooner. “Several states across the southeast experienced devastating damages from Hurricane Helene, which caused significant destruction right before the harvest season,” Vilsack says. “USDA will support farmers through the recovery process for the long haul, and that includes today’s step of making innovative types of coverage available and getting funds into the hands of producers quickly.” Georgia’s indemnity payments top the list at a combined $207.7 million. A full list of the Farm Service Agency disaster assistance programs is available on the Hurricane Helene webpage at farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** Baldwin Wants Help for Wisconsin Poultry Growers Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) called on the USDA to provide immediate assistance for Wisconsin farmers who were impacted by the sudden closure of Pure Prairie Poultry. The shutdown left the state’s poultry producers staring at crippling financial losses without feed and a processor for the birds. “Hard-working Wisconsin farmers have been left high and dry by the abrupt closure of Pure Prairie Poultry,” says Senator Baldwin. “Our agriculture industry is the beating heart of many of our communities, and, in the face of this dire situation, I’m calling on USDA to do everything they can for these Wisconsin farmers who face financial ruin through no fault of their own.” She also raised concerns for the animal’s well-being and the potential for this closure to exasperate the avian flu outbreak as farmers are resorting to giving away chickens by the tens of thousands. Pure Prairie Poultry filed for bankruptcy in September. *********************************************************************************** Protect the Harvest Shutting Down Protect the Harvest will cease operating on October 31, 2024, citing funding challenges that began during COVID. The organization was created in 2011 as a non-profit educational and advocacy effort to promote and defend American farmers and ranchers, improve food security, protect property rights, ensure animal welfare, and support outdoor sports. Protect the Harvest has kept many people safe from a myriad of threats. “The current economy has made it challenging for many individuals and organizations that have supported us in the past,” says Mike Siemens, Protect the Harvest Executive Director. “It’s been frustrating and disappointing to see the number of issues we confront multiply while our resources to address them have been diminished.” He also says it’s even more heartbreaking because they still hear from many stakeholders about how much they value Protect the Harvest and the work they do. “Other organizations will have to fill in,” he said. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Announced Leadership Class VII The United Sorghum Checkoff Program released the names of the Leadership Sorghum Class VII. This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and advocates for the sorghum industry. “The strength of the sorghum industry depends on developing leaders who can advocate for the future,” says Kendall Hodgson, USCP Chairman. “With a growing demand and evolving challenges in agriculture, Leadership Sorghum plays a vital role in preparing producers to represent and promote our industry with knowledge and confidence.” Seventeen farmers have been selected from states like Alabama, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and others. “Leadership Sorghum is instrumental in shaping the future of our industry by equipping producers with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and advocate at every level,” says Shelee Padgett, Leadership Sorghum Program Director. “The leaders we develop are vital to continue the future success of the entire sorghum industry.” For more information, go to leadsorghum.com. *********************************************************************************** New Oat Ready for Battle Against Crown Rust A team of Agricultural Research Service and university scientists released two new oat germplasm lines to shore up the crop’s defenses against the devastating fungal disease called crown rust. The team specifically created the oat lines so that they could be crossed with elite commercial varieties to fortify them with new genetic sources of resistance to crown rust. The disease can be a plague upon oats worldwide and inflict grain losses of up to 50 percent in unprotected crops. The crown rust fungus is a genetically diverse pathogen and highly adept at evolving into new virulent forms called races. This can happen so quickly that the average productive life of an oat variety with seedling resistance is between three and five years, necessitating the use of chemical fungicides in conventional production systems. The sturdy oat lines have been propagated for their seed, which is available for a variety of development programs. *********************************************************************************** Investments will Strengthen School Meals Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized USDA’s commitment to connecting local farmers and producers with schools nationwide that serve meals to about 30 million children every school day. Vilsack, joining others across the country in celebrating National School Lunch Week and National Farm to School Month, pointed to the Department’s recent investment of $500 million for schools to purchase unprocessed foods as the latest in a series of actions to support school meals through nutritious, domestic foods. “A healthier future for our country starts with our children, and American farmers and producers play a critical role in ensuring kids have healthy, tasty food with homegrown flavor to nourish them through the school day,” Vilsack says. “We know the school meals supply chain is the strongest when schools have relationships with local suppliers, which is why USDA will continue to support local foods in schools for a brighter future for our children.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 16, 2024 |
New Analysis of Tariff-Induced Trade War Impacts Farmers for Free Trade, the national trade advocacy coalition including America’s largest ag and food associations released a reaction to new trade analysis from the National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association. The analysis evaluates the impacts of a trade war on soybeans and corn, two of America’s leading ag exports. Bob Hemesath (HE-meh-sath) is the Board President for Farmers for Free Trade and says the analysis shows that American corn and soybean farmers would be devastated by the re-emergence of a trade war. “The very real possibility that tariffs rise sharply would mean corn exports to China drop by well over 80 percent and soy exports would drop by half,” Hemesath says. “The analysis also shows that a trade war would reduce U.S. soybean and corn prices, which would harm rural economies across the country.” He also says a trade war would be a gift to international competitors. *********************************************************************************** USDA Recruiting Exports for Trade Mission to Thailand The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will host its first-ever trade mission to Bangkok, Thailand, February 3-6, 2025. Current and potential exporters interested in participating should apply for consideration by October 29. “The mission represents an opportunity for our farmers, ranchers, producers, and agribusinesses to connect with potential trade partners from both Thailand and Burma,” says Daniel Whitley, administrator of the FAS. “Consumers in these markets are ready to stock their pantries with world-class, high-quality food and farm products offered by U.S. exporters that join the trip in February.” The U.S. was the fifth-largest supplier of agricultural products to Thailand in 2023, with $1.2 billion in exports. The top U.S. exports were bulk commodities used for feed and food manufacturing, but there are strong opportunities for consumer-oriented products as well. Thailand boasts the fourth-highest per capita income in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. For information or to apply, go to fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Mississippi River Falls During Record Harvest Season Farm Policy News says that as the fall harvest of record corn and soybean crops is in full swing, Mississippi River conditions continue to get worse. It’s stalling barges trying to move up and down the channel, especially in the Lower Mississippi River. That means barge drafts and tow sizes have been cut. A draft is the distance between the waterline and the deepest points of the boat, which typically is 12 feet at 1,500 tons. On the Illinois River, barges are loaded to about a nine-foot draft at 900 tons. Each reduction in the draft means a barge’s cargo is cut by 200 tons. That will cost shippers more money as they’re paying for the same amount of money but shipping less freight than normal. More barges will be needed to pick up the slack. These costs typically get passed on to the farmers who haul grain to river terminals. *********************************************************************************** Ag Productivity Growth Falling Short of Meeting Global Demands A Virginia Tech study shows a dramatic slowdown in agricultural productivity that threatens the world’s ability to feed a growing global population and manage environmental challenges. That’s according to the 2024 Global Agricultural Productivity (GAP) Report. The report says that while research, development, and high-tech farming tools are being developed at a steady pace, a substantial “valley of death” separates the development of new innovations from the people who need to adopt them. Agricultural total factor productivity growth is critical for ensuring that agriculture can meet the growing global demand for products by 2050. “Global agricultural productivity growth has slowed from 1.9 percent annually during 2001-2010 to 0.7 percent annually during 2013-2022,” says Tom Thompson, the report’s executive editor. “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.” *********************************************************************************** AVMA Anticipates No Dire Shortage of Veterinarians A recent analysis of the drivers of supply and demand for veterinary services shows that the number of graduates from existing veterinary colleges is likely enough to meet demand through 2035. The conclusion comes after a study commissioned by the American Veterinary Medicine Association. The projections in this analysis do not justify a conclusion of overall excess capacity or a capacity shortage by 2035. Meantime, the population of veterinarians is likely to grow faster than pet-owning households if all 13 proposed veterinary schools become accredited. With 33 colleges already recognized by the AVMA Council on Education, this would represent almost a 40 percent increase in the next ten years. Vet visits are declining from a peak achieved in 2021 and 2022. Data shows prices for those veterinary services have been increasing as well. The Veterinary Industry Tracker says that’s caused a slowdown in the volume of vet services. *********************************************************************************** AccuWeather: Another Mild Winter Ahead for Parts of the U.S. On the heels of one of the warmest summers on record, AccuWeather long-range experts are forecasting a mild winter with above-average temperatures in three dozen states. The U.S. recently had its warmest winter season on record last December through February, and much of the country will see mild temps again. “We will likely have a weak La Niña for most of this winter,” says Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok. “We expect the storm track to dive south into California this winter, which can result in periods of mild air moving across the Central and Eastern U.S. at times.” However, with a weak signal of La Niña, some cold can push into the Midwest and Northeast. Based on data from previous winters with a similar setup, Pastelok says February is the likely month for the polar vortex to usher in a blast of bitterly cold air across the eastern U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 16, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Imports and Exports and Import Price Index out at 7:30 am CT EIA weekly petroleum status report, including ethanol production and stocks at 9:30 am CT ERS Oil Crops Outlook at 11 am CT ERS Feed, Wheat, Rice Outlook at 2pm CT Weather Cold temperatures continue east of the Rockies early Wednesday, with frosts that have gotten as far south as Oklahoma and just south of the Tennessee border Wednesday morning. Warmer temperatures will spread into the Plains late in the day, however. And with increasing winds, it should become more dangerous for wildfires for the rest of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 15, 2024 |
Poultry Company Abandons Producers Pure Prairie Poultry declared bankruptcy and shut down with little notice, affecting workers at a processing plant in Iowa and contract growers in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Farmers Union says this has left farmers in dire straits, with thousands of birds to feed and no feed or compensation coming. The growers are reporting that they will have to euthanize tens of thousands of birds because it’s too expensive to feed that many out of their own pockets. Reports say Pure Prairie Poultry received $45 million in taxpayer subsidies in 2022. Chickens in some of the company’s Wisconsin sheds haven’t been fed for more than a week and have resorted to cannibalism to survive. No feed or relief from their suffering is in sight as Pure Prairie Poultry is no longer feeding the birds and refusing to respond to any inquiries from its contracted farmers about the situation. *********************************************************************************** Combine and Tractor Sales Fall in September U.S. sales of ag tractors dropped by 19 percent in September of this year compared to September 2023. New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says combine sales also fell during the month, dropping 41 percent compared to last year. The 100-plus horsepower tractor segment fell the most from last year, dropping almost 27 percent in September of 2024 compared to last year. Four-wheel-drive tractors were the segment’s only gain, selling 1.7 percent more year-to-date from January through September 2024. “September’s ag tractor and combine sales follow a summer that showed a cyclical slowdown in sales,” says AEM senior vice president Curt Blades. “These declines point to the overall softness in the ag economy.” Sales of ag tractors in Canada also dropped in September 2024, finishing the month 25 percent behind the total sales in September 2023. Combine sales in Canada fell 52 percent compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Governor Issues Order to Protect Livestock from Wildfires Just weeks after wildfires burned through almost half a million acres in Wyoming and Montana, more devastating wildfires are popping up around the Cowboy State. As communities tried to pick up the pieces after the devastation, Wyoming received a USDA Disaster Declaration to help assist in agriculture’s recovery from wildfire damage. State Governor Mark Gordon issued an emergency transport order to protect livestock and the ag industry in the fire’s area. Ignited by a lightning strike in late September, the Elk Fire is breaking records as the largest wildfire to tear through the Big Horn National Forest in 100 years of recorded history. According to the Fire, Weather, and Avalanche Center, as of October 9, the Elk Fire had scorched 75,969 acres with only 16 percent containment. Reports say as many as 889 personnel are working to put out the large fire. Unusually dry weather conditions have not improved the situation. *********************************************************************************** 4-H Updates its Strategy to Better Prepare Youth The national 4-H program launched Beyond Ready, a nationwide initiative designed to empower ten million young people with the skills, resilience, and confidence they need to thrive in a changing world. While schools play a critical role in education, 4-H says they can’t do it alone. As the largest youth development organization in the country, 4-H is equipped to bridge the gap between school and the working world. Employers are increasingly focusing on skills extending beyond traditional subjects, with 77 percent stating the need for analytical thinking, creativity, resilience, and adaptability. To meet their goals, 4-H outlined multiple key initiatives to drive the Beyond Ready Campaign, including partnerships with land-grant universities to provide more college credit and credentialing programs. 4-H will also invest in educators by expanding Positive Youth Development training opportunities, as well as mobilizing the 4-H network to accelerate impact by leveraging key partnerships with government agencies and universities. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Corn Production Up While Soybean Production Drops Friday’s USDA Crop Production Report showed corn production is forecast at 15.2 billion bushels, up less than one percent from the previous forecast, but down one percent from last year. Soybean growers are expected to increase their production by ten percent from 2023, with the forecast at 4.58 billion bushels. Based on conditions as of October 1, corn yields are expected to average 183.8 bushels per harvested acre, up 0.2 bushels from the previous forecast and 6.5 bushels higher than last year. Soybean yields are predicted to average 53.1 bushels an acre, down fractionally from the previous forecast but up 2.5 bushels from 2023. The report also included a production forecast for U.S. cotton. The all-cotton production is forecast at 14.2 million 480-pound bales, down two percent from the previous forecast, but up 18 percent from 2023. Yields are expected to average 789 pounds per harvested acre, 18 pounds below September. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases October WASDE The October World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report says the 2024-2025 corn outlook is for smaller supplies, larger exports, and reduced ending stocks. With supply falling and use rising, ending stocks are cut 58 million bushels to two billion. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.10 a bushel. U.S. soybean production is forecast at 134.4 million tons, down 0.3 million from last month. With lower soybean production partly offset by slightly higher beginning stocks, supplies are lowered by 2 million bushels to 4.9 billion. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $10.80 a bushel. The outlook for U.S. wheat calls for reduced supplies, larger domestic use, unchanged exports, and lower ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are lowered by 16 million bushels to 812 million, still up 17 percent from the previous year. The season-average farm price for wheat is unchanged at $5.70 a bushel.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 15, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Empire State Manufacturing survey out at 7:30 am CDT, FAS Grain Export Inspections report out at 10 am, USDA Feed Grains Database update out at 11 am, ERS Wheat Data update out at 2pm, and USDA Crop Progress report out at 3 pm. Weather Cold air continues to flood the country east of the Rockies Tuesday, bringing some more widespread frosts in the morning from Kansas to Pennsylvania and points northward. The cold air continues to produce some lake-effect rain showers in the Great Lakes as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 14, 2024 |
Agricultural Leader Harley Janssen Joins NCGA Harley Janssen, a farmer and leader with more than 20 years of experience in agriculture, construction and off-road technology, has joined the National Corn Growers Association. He will serve as the Director of Outputs and Measurements, a newly created position at the organization. The high caliber experience Janssen brings will help NCGA take its sustainability work to new heights. In his role, Janssen will translate and interpret production and sustainability data and help growers access new sustainability markets. He will play a crucial role as NCGA helps farmers access tax credits that will allow them to sell into the aviation sector. Janssen said that NCGA wants to make certain that existing private and public sustainability programs are as inclusive as possible when it comes to how they work with and assist corn growers. ************************************************************************************* Scientists Examining Corporate Influence over Food and Farm Bill The Union of Concerned Scientists recently released a report analyzing the influence of lobbying on food and agriculture systems. The report finds that agribusinesses, industry associations, and other interest groups have spent more than US$500 million to influence legislation, including the Farm Bill, between 2019 and 2023. The Farm Bill is an omnibus bill that covers issues across food and agriculture systems including financial credit for farmers, resource conservation and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is renewed approximately every five years by Congress. The current Farm Bill, which expired in September 2023, was extended for an additional year, but that extension has now expired. The researchers looked at quarterly lobbying disclosure reports and campaign donations to Congress officials associated with the Farm Bill during reelection periods in 2019-2023 to determine the reach of influence of corporate lobbying over the bill. Karen Stillerman, Deputy Director of the Union of Concerned Scientists, emphasized the responsibility of legislators to uphold the needs of small and midsize farms, historically marginalized farmers, food workers, and consumers. ************************************************************************************* Helene Damage to Georgia Agriculture Tops $6B in Preliminary Estimate The future is uncertain for thousands of Georgia farmers, the state’s agriculture commissioner said, with poultry growers and pecan farmers facing years of recovery from widespread destruction. Farmers in Georgia face billions of dollars in preliminary losses from destructive Hurricane Helene in what could be a catastrophic blow to the state’s agriculture industry. Agricultural damages are expected to reach at least $6.46 billion, according to an early estimate from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. The total is based on crop losses, plus losses to businesses and workers supporting agriculture. Estimated losses are approximately three times that of Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused at least $2 billion in damages and was considered one of the most destructive storms to hit the state. ************************************************************************************* Robots May Provide Answers to Herbicides Resistance Farmers are looking to weeding robots as herbicide resistance solution. A new survey by the Illinois Center for Digital Agriculture finds more than half of corn farmers would adopt weeding robots. Ag economist Shadi Attallah says the prevalence of herbicide resistance weeds is a major factor. A $40,000 robot and a $20,000 robot were tested, according to Attallah, and he says, “As you might imagine, the more expensive the robot, the more I’m going to wait until I have more weeds and more resistance until I adopt the robot.” More than 93 percent of planted row crop acres in the U.S. have genetically modified herbicide resistance, but Attallah says the efficacy is declining. Some studies have shown that loss of efficacy via chemical control will lead to crop losses that can reach up to $100 billion per year. Attallah recently developed an integrated weed ecological and economic dynamic, or I-WEED, model system to understand what factors could impact farmer adoption. He says earlier use of robots did lead to better profits in the model. ************************************************************************************* Oregon Rewrites Dairy Regulations, Small Farmers Drop Lawsuit The Oregon Department of Agriculture has rewritten its regulations on dairies, following push back from some small farmers. Previously, the ODA had warned dairy farms that they could face fines if they failed to register as Confined Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs. In a memo from last year, the agency said several raw milk producers were ignoring the registration requirement, creating environmental concerns and generating complaints from other dairies. However, critics argued the state’s criteria was too broad and would have saddled small businesses with regulatory requirements meant for large-scale farms. “It would have been very cost prohibitive to us to continue to operate the way that we do today, if at all,” said Sarah King with Godspeed Hollow, a two-cow farm in Newberg. “And that could have been the case for many other farms that look like us in the state.” In January, King joined three other raw milk farmers in a lawsuit against the ODA, accusing the state of protecting the corporate milk industry. “These rules don’t make sense for the small dairies, because they don’t create the kind of problems posed by these larger farming operations,” said Bobbi Taylor, a lawyer for the plaintiffs. ************************************************************************************* Lawmakers Ask EPA to Ban Paraquat Forty-seven Democratic members of Congress have asked Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to ban the use of the herbicide paraquat. The lawmakers, led by Texas Congressman Greg Casar, told Regan the chemical is particularly dangerous for farmworkers. The EPA says it has yet to find a scientific link between the use of the herbicide and Parkinson's disease. At the end of January 2024, EPA released a report on the ongoing review of paraquat. Due to the significant human health and environmental concerns associated with paraquat, roughly 70 countries have banned or discontinued the use of the chemical, including China, Brazil, the European Union, and Canada. Findings from researchers at UCLA found that paraquat sprayed within 500 meters of where people live and work can more than double a person's odds of developing Parkinson's disease.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 14, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Columbus Day Holiday -- Most futures will trade. U.S. Treasury market and bond futures are closed. Usual Monday reports such as export inspections and crop progress will be released on Tuesday. Weather A burst of cold air is moving into the country east of the Rockies early this week. Frosts and freezes in the Northern and Central Plains will spread south and east over the next couple of days. The cold is leading to some lake-effect rain showers across the Great Lakes as well.
| 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 Option The USDA has expanded its Nursery Value Select Crop Insurance program to all counties in all states, and the USDA’s Risk Management Agency is offering informational workshops for interested producers. 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 beginning with the 2026 crop year. Nursery Value Select is a program that enables nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their risk management needs. It’s expansion is part of RMA’s efforts to provide insurance options for a broader group of producers, including specialty crop producers. “At the RMA, we always want to provide producers with the strongest crop insurance resources and options possible,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “That’s why the expansion’s significant because we can now reach every producer in the country.” For more information, go to rma.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** TSC Raises Over $1 Million for FFA Tractor Supply Company announced the results of its ninth annual Grants for Growing fundraiser to support FFA chapters across the country. From February 14 to March 3, customers and team members generated over $1 million through the purchase of FFA paper emblems at checkouts in stores and online. The funds raised will support middle school and high school FFA chapters that are developing project-based or experiential learning opportunities. “We’re proud to support FFA’s transformative education programs that have such a profound impact on students nationwide,” says Kimberly Gardiner, chief marketing officer for TSC. The Grants for Growing Fund supports projects with grants up to $5,000 in one of three focus areas: Grow Your Classroom, Grow Your FFA Chapter, and Grow Your Ag Awareness. To get funding, FFA advisors can submit applications at FFA.org. Submissions must include a detailed proposal for a project supporting developing future agricultural leaders and the larger community.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 1, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Post-Easter Markets, HPAI Spread in Dairies, First Crop Progress Report 1. Market settles after disaster dustups: Market traders will be coming back after the Easter long weekend straight into April. We'll continue to track livestock and grain markets as they take in the recent news of the ship accident shutting down Baltimore Harbor and dairy cattle contracting highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). During Easter weekend, there was news the HPAI had spread to dairy cows now in five states; the situation could change the dynamics of the outbreak and indicate cow-to-cow transmission could be possible.. 2. USDA Crop Progress reports begin: April 1 (no fooling) marks the beginning of the weekly Crop Progress reports from USDA, which track planting progress and crop condition through the growing season. Those reports typically come out at 3:00 p.m. on Mondays (unless Monday is a national holiday). We will have both the report numbers and analysis by DTN reporters, meteorologists, and analysts each report afternoon. 3. Take that, Drought Monitor: Thanks to recent spring storms, the "drought is getting pounded," according to DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. He noted that while there are still areas that can use rainfall to make up for multiple seasons of shortfall, the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor is losing some of its yellow and brown coloration (indicating moisture deficits. The Ohio Valley and Southwest Plains could get more rain this week as another round of systems work their way across the U.S. 4. Frost watch: The cold fronts that kick off spring storms could also bring frosts to the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle areas, where wheat has been responding to unusually warm temperatures. We'll watch for any issues there. As for Easter Sunday, critical fire conditions are expected as red flag warnings have been issued from Colorado and Kansas down to the West Texas region. 5. Economic reports: Back to a full week of reports, no fooling. We'll start Monday at 8:45 a.m. with the S&P manufacturing PMI report. At 9 a.m. is Construction Spending, followed by the 10 a.m. Grain Inspections numbers. At 2 p.m. we'll see Cotton Consumption and Stocks, Fats and Oils report and Grain Crushings. At 3 p.m. will be the season's first USDA Crop Progress report. Tuesday's first reports, at 9 a.m., include Factory Orders and Job Openings (JOLTS) reports. At 2 p.m. is the Hatchery Production Annual report. Wednesday starts early with 7:15 a.m. ADP Employment. At 8:45 a.m. we'll watch for the S&P Services PMI. At 10 a.m. comes EIA's Weekly Petroleum Status including ethanol production and stocks. At 2 p.m. is the Broiler Hatchery numbers. Thursday we'll see Initial Jobless Claims, U.S. Trade Balance and Grain Export sales all at 7:30 a.m. At 10:30 a.m. the Weekly Economic Index is out, followed by the 2 p.m. release of Agricultural Land Values. Friday morning is filled with jobs reports, with 7:30 a.m. release of U.S. Nonfarm Payrolls, Unemployment Rate, and Hourly Wages. At 11 a.m. the Livestock and Meat Trade data report is due, with a Dairy Products report at 2 p.m. Also at 2 is the latest Consumer Credit numbers, and the 2:30 p.m. release of the CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 1, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from a three-day weekend, traders will check in on the latest weather forecasts and notice the PCE inflation index for February, reported on Good Friday. A report on U.S. manufacturing in March will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's report of weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m., followed by the first weekly Crop Progress report of the season at 3 p.m. Weather A system is moving in pieces through the middle of the country Monday. That will bring a round of heavy rain and thunderstorms through much of the Plains and Midwest, including areas of severe weather. A widespread severe outbreak is forecast arcing from Texas up through Missouri and the Ohio Valley. All hazards are possible, but the rain will be most welcome.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 28, 2024 |
Baltimore Bridge Collapse Won’t Slow Commodity Exports The Francis Scott Key Bridge at Baltimore collapsed this week. Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says the Port of Baltimore exported over 142,000 metric tons of soybeans in 2020, the most recent data available. “There are no reported soybean exports via bulk vessel,” he says. “The port imported 172,228 metric tons of soybeans via container and 34,000 tons of soybeans in bulk vessels.” In contrast, the Mississippi Gulf Region, the top export region for soybeans, accounted for 35.4 million metric tons of soybeans by bulk. The top five ag products handled at the Port of Baltimore include sugar, soybeans, grain products, coffee, and grocery items. “While it’s not a significant port region for soybeans and grain, it’s a significant resource for the broader economy,” Steenhoek adds. “It underscores the reality that the ports serving as the origins and destinations for global commerce can be vulnerable.” *********************************************************************************** Letter Asks for E15 Emergency Waiver Groups like the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the National Corn Growers Association, and others sent a letter on E15 to the Environmental Protection Agency. The groups are asking Administrator Michael Regan to swiftly issue an emergency waiver for E15 sales. “New and ongoing world conflicts continue to pose risks for the U.S. energy supply,” the letter says. “In addition to the Ukraine conflict, the recent conflict in the Middle East presents additional challenges to America’s energy security.” To remedy the disruptions in the global energy markets, stabilize gasoline prices for American consumers, and support domestic energy security, the groups urged the EPA to quickly authorize the summer sale of gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol. ‘The consumer cost savings that result from allowing the year-round sale of E15, even temporarily, are well-established,” the groups add. “Consumers have saved 10 to 30 cents a gallon during recent waivers.” *********************************************************************************** AccuWeather Predicts a Risky Hurricane Season The meteorologists at AccuWeather are warning people and businesses to start preparing now for what could be a busy tropical storm season that may have major impacts on the United States. The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast is calling for 20 to 25 named storms. Eight to 12 of those storms are forecast to strengthen into hurricanes. Four to six storms could directly impact the U.S. “The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to feature well above the historical average number of tropical storms, hurricanes, major hurricanes, and direct U.S. impacts,” says AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Forecaster Alex DaSilva. “All indications are pointing toward a very active and potentially explosive Atlantic hurricane season this year.” Warmer ocean temperatures are one of the factors that can provide fuel for tropical systems to rapidly intensify into powerful hurricanes. “Sea-surface temps are well above historical averages across much of the Atlantic basin,” DaSilva explained. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks More Grazing Land Conservation The USDA is investing up to $22 million in partnerships that expand access to conservation technical assistance for livestock producers and increase the use of conservation practices on grazing land. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is accepting proposals through its Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative until May 26, 2024. “Privately owned grazing lands cover nearly 30 percent of the national landscape, which means we have a tremendous opportunity to conserve natural resources through voluntary, private lands conservation,” says NRCS Chief Terry Cosby. “NRCS enlists a wide variety of conservation practices to help livestock producers.” He also says the partnerships will help expand the footprint of conservation on grazing lands. Project proposals for GLCI Cooperative Agreements will identify and address barriers to accessing grazing assistance for producers. Projects must address one or more of several priorities, including local natural resource concerns, climate-smart ag and forestry practices, and others. For information, go to grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Feed Industry Supports EMIT LESS Act The American Feed Industry Association applauded several senators for introducing the “Enteric Methane Innovation Tools for Lower Emissions and Sustainable Stock (EMIT LESS) Act.” By expanding USDA’s research and incentivizing the adoption of emissions-reducing practices on farms, the bill aims to mitigate the significant environmental impact of enteric methane emissions from American dairy and beef cattle operations. “We thank the senators for introducing a bill that strengthens our country’s research and conservation programs while recognizing the unique role that animal nutrition and feed ingredients play in reducing on-farm enteric methane emissions,” says Constance Cullman, president and CEO of the American Feed Industry Association. “The EMIT LESS Act shows that right alongside animal food innovators, our country is willing to invest in a more sustainable future.” AFIA also says the bill’s key provisions include integrating emissions-reduction practices into USDA’s conservation programs and providing financial incentives to farmers that voluntarily adopt them. *********************************************************************************** American Agri-Women Expanding its D.C. Fly-In American Agri-Women is excited to announce the expansion of its annual Washington D.C. fly-in event. The group is opening up the event to all women involved in the agricultural and natural resource industries. The 2024 Fly-In will be a historical gathering, uniting women from across the country to make their voices heard on behalf of the agriculture industry in the nation’s capital. The fly-in is scheduled from June 2-4, 2024, in Washington D.C. The event promises a unique opportunity for women across the agricultural and natural resources sectors to come together, share insights, and advocate for critical issues affecting their industries. Among the many key highlights of the event, several presentations will show attendees how to make an impact at the local, state, and federal levels of government, as well as discussions on regulations and how they impact producers. It’s a chance to network with elected officials and other stakeholders.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 28, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of first-quarter U.S. GDP 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 Prospective Plantings survey and report of March 1 Grain Stocks will be out at 11 a.m., followed by USDA's quarterly Hogs and Pigs report at 2 p.m. Weather A system that is moving through the Pacific Northwest will be moving into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies on Thursday, producing areas of scattered showers, mostly as snow. Quieter conditions are expected elsewhere as temperatures start to rise ahead of the inbound system. Snow cover will limit some of the warming in the Upper Midwest and surrounding areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 27, 2024 |
Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Climb The USDA, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in cattle. The agencies say the disease seems to be affecting primarily older cows in Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico. This is the first time that HPAI has been identified as affecting dairy cattle and only the second time the virus has been detected in a ruminant animal. The commercial milk supply remains safe due to the federal animal health requirements and pasteurization. Milk from the affected herds is not allowed to enter the milk supply. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service says migratory birds are the likely source of the infection. “At this stage, there’s no concern that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health,” APHIS says in a news release. Federal and state agencies are moving quickly to conduct additional testing for specific HPAI strains. *********************************************************************************** Properly Prepared Beef is Safe to Eat After HPAI was found in dairy cattle, the Meat Institute says that properly prepared beef is safe to eat and not a safety risk to humans. “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and USDA food safety experts say properly prepared beef is safe to eat,” says Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “HPAI cannot be transmitted to humans by eating meat or poultry products.” She also says the Meat Institute and its member companies will continue to be vigilant to aid in the efforts to stop the spread of the disease among animals in food production. “We will support the nation’s producers working to protect their herds,” Potts adds. The meat and poultry industries are among the most intensely regulated in the nation. Inspectors from the Food Safety and Inspection Service are present every day in meat packing plants and are trained to detect disease before and after slaughter. *********************************************************************************** EPA Accepts Atrazine Recommendations The Environmental Protection Agency agreed with recommendations from its Scientific Advisory Panel on atrazine. The recommendations remove several poor-quality studies that played a role in the agency’s recommendation for an ultra-low aquatic level of concern for atrazine. The SAP was held in 2023 at the request of agriculture groups active in the Triazine Network. The panel considered EPA’s white paper and stakeholder comments to exclude or rescore several questionable studies used to set the aquatic concentration equivalent level of concern. The panel’s scientists appreciated the farmers and agriculture representatives who testified on the real-world benefits and necessities of atrazine as well as the real-world consequences of EPA’s proposed decisions. One of the Triazine Networks’ co-chairs says hearing directly from the people using the product was a key component of the SAP. The Triazine Network is a coalition of agriculture organizations and producers advocating for science-based decisions on Triazine herbicides like atrazine. *********************************************************************************** USDA Authorizes Emergency CRP Grazing The USDA has authorized the release of emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program acres nationwide to livestock producers affected by the wildfires in Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas. “Many ranchers in those states impacted by the recent wildfires are in need of grazing acres and hay resources to sustain their herds while they work during the months ahead to restore their operations,” says Kelly Adkins, Texas Farm Service Agency Director. “If you have CRP acres and want to help wildfire-impacted ranchers, please contact your local FSA office. They’ll determine available emergency and non-emergency use options.” Although the Primary Nesting Season has already started in Texas, CRP participants can continue to donate emergency grazing authority to livestock producers in need during this period in counties eligible for the Livestock Forage Program due to drought. FSA also offers non-emergency use provisions for CRP acres as an option during the PNS in Texas. *********************************************************************************** BASF Launches a New SCN Awareness Website Soybean Cyst Nematode is present in most areas where soybeans are grown. Because nematodes feed on the roots of each plant, the damage is often difficult to detect with no above-ground symptoms. To help farmers do their jobs more efficiently, BASF launched SCNFields.com, a website that will provide farmers with SCN sampling results from more than 4,000 collected samples across the U.S. “SCN is the leading cause of soybean yield loss in the U.S., costing growers over 100 million bushels of yield and an estimated $1.5 billion annually,” says Troy Bauer, BASF Senior Technical Field Representative. “Farmers need to test their fields to ensure SCN isn’t becoming a problem without them realizing it.” With SCNFields.com, a farmer can see samples with high counts locally and know they need to take steps now to manage the threat of SCN. Additionally, SCN populations can change in season. For more information, go to SCNFields.com. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Farm Goes for Almost $4 Million A 230-acre farm in Grundy County, Iowa, owned continually by the same family since plows first turned ground in the prairies in the 1870s, sold at a recent auction for almost four million dollars. Successful Farming says the Iowa century farm is historically significant in the state and has some of Iowa’s highest quality cropland. More than 91 acres, or 40 percent of the land, have a perfect 100 Corn Suitability Rating (CSR2). The overall weighted average for the land is a still-high 95.2. According to Iowa State University, the average rating for the state is 68.4. Grundy County has the second-highest average of Iowa’s 99 counties at 86.9. Before the auction, tenant Paul Koch spoke to the crowd. The third-generation farmer said the family moved onto the farm in 1929 and has farmed the land for about 94 years. “This is some of the state’s best ground,” he said.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 27, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report is due out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders will keep watch over South American weather forecasts and trading may be quiet Wednesday, ahead of three USDA reports on Thursday. Weather A big storm system is leaving the U.S. as it heads toward Hudson Bay. The cold front to the storm will bring showers to the East Coast, however. A few showers will go through the Southern Plains Wednesday as well. Cold air has built into the Plains which may be harming wheat in the southwest. The next system is moving into the Pacific Northwest as the pattern remains active.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 26, 2024 |
Farmers Planting Less Corn, More Soybeans in 2024 American farmers might plant less corn than last year, but it will still likely be larger than what USDA previously anticipated. That’s according to data from the March 2024 Farm Futures grower survey. Total corn and soybean acreage will likely vary minimally from last year. Growers expect to plant 92.4 million acres of corn this year, down 2.3 million acres or 2.4 percent from last year. Soybean acreage is forecast to be 2.4 million acres or 2.9 percent higher than last year’s 86 million acres. This is almost a one-for-one tradeoff between corn and soybean acres from last year. If realized, that would bring the total corn and soybean acreage planted this year to 178.6 million acres or the third-largest combined corn-soybean acreage on record. Last year, farmers planted 178.2 million acres of corn and soybeans. Growers still anticipate USDA finding more winter wheat acres compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** California Pork Prices Higher After Prop 12 Implementation Prop 12 is already raising the price of pork in California. In effect for just over six months, pork sales have dropped across the state. That’s from data compiled by the USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist. The OCE found prices for pork products affected by Prop 12, including loins, ribs, and bellies, have averaged 20 percent higher in California since before July 1, 2023, when the initiative was partially implemented. Loin prices average 41 percent higher than before Prop 12 implementation. Pork not covered by the initiative hasn’t significantly increased. The data also shows that California’s share of fresh pork consumption has “significantly declined.” The economists found the price premium end-users paid for Prop 12-compliant pork compared with non-compliant products at the wholesale level was 22 percent higher on average, with compliant loins and bellies 30 percent higher. Prop 12-compliant pork must meet specific space standards to be legal. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Sets Fairer Prices for Livestock Assistance Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced legislation to offer producers fairer market prices for livestock disaster assistance programs. The Livestock Indemnity Program Improvement Act would require the Farm Service Agency to make quarterly updates to the Livestock Indemnity Program payment rates that reflect livestock market prices. The LIP provides payments to eligible livestock owners and contract growers for abnormal livestock deaths caused by an eligible loss of condition, such as severe weather, disease, or animal attack. The FSA is currently required to update the payment rates annually. The bipartisan bill would make these updates more frequent to reflect a quickly-changing market. “Ranchers often make large financial investments in their livestock and sometimes face heavy losses due to natural disasters and other circumstances out of their control,” Klobuchar says. “This will help ensure ranchers have a safety net that more accurately reflects the market value of any lost livestock.” *********************************************************************************** New Grant Program for Beef Producers The Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s Leadership Development Foundation announced a new Working Grant Program. The announcement came during the recently completed Cattle Raisers Convention and Expo. The new TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation’s grant program will help support those starting or growing a business in ranching, beef production, or a related area supporting the beef value chain. The program will provide financial assistance and access to mentorship, educational resources, or related areas supporting the beef value chain. “Whether it’s helping a young producer purchase their first parcel of land, enabling a veterinarian to open a large animal clinic in a rural community, or giving a generational producer the opportunity to grow their operation, these grants have the power to transform lives and revitalize our rural economies,” says TSCRA President Carl Ray Polk, Jr. The application period for individuals in Texas and Oklahoma will open on May 1. For information, go to tscra.org. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Up One Percent The USDA says the total number of 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 11.8 million head on March 1. The inventory was one percent above March 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during February totaled 1.89 million head, ten percent above 2023. Placements were the highest for February since the series began in 1996. Net placements were 1.83 million head. During February, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds totaled 360,000 head, and between 600-699 pounds, placements reached 330,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 515,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 485,000 head, 900-999 pounds totaled 150,000 head, and 1,000 pounds or greater totaled 50,000 head. February fed cattle marketings reached 1.79 million head, which was three percent above February 2023. Other disappearances totaled 56,000 head during February, down three percent from February 2023. *********************************************************************************** FAA Clears “Drone Swarms” for Agriculture The Federal Aviation Administration issued an exemption for “drone-swarm” agriculture, a method of seeding and spraying crops at a fraction of the traditional cost. Hylio (HEE-lee-oh), a Texas-based drone manufacturer, successfully applied for an FFA exemption to allow fleets of drones weighing 55 pounds or more to fly together. It’s the first exception of its kind for machines that carry what the company calls a “meaningful payload” and makes the process competitive with traditional tractors and seeding rigs. “On average, you’re spending a quarter upfront on the capital cost to buy the machinery, and the operating cost is about a quarter or maybe a third of what you’d spend for the more traditional stuff,” says Arthur Erickson, Hylio CEO. Under previous rules, a single drone required a pilot and another person acting as a spotter. Because of weight limits in flight, it took a long time to cover large fields.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 26, 2024 |
Tuesday watch List Markets Durable Goods Orders will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT, at 8 a.m. we'll see the Case-Shiller Home Price Index and at 9 a.m. the latest Consumer Confidence numbers are out. The USDA report preview is also available. Traders continue to keep an eye on South American weather and recent events in Ukraine. Weather A strong storm system in the Midwest will send the main low-pressure center northeast into Ontario on Tuesday while the cold front slowly pushes eastward into the Appalachians. Widespread showers continue from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast and some stronger thunderstorms will still be possible in the eastern Midwest this afternoon. At the same time, snow continues to be heavy on the backside of the storm across Minnesota. Cold air has built in behind the storm across the Plains
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 25, 2024 |
Farm Bank Lending Increased in 2023 Agricultural loan demand increased in 2023, and agricultural lending by U.S. farm banks grew 6.7 percent to $110 billion. The American Bankers Association’s annual Farm Bank Performance Report credits elevated production costs, commodity price volatility, and a return to pre-COVID levels of direct government payments. The ABA says farm banks continued to enjoy solid performance in 2023, with robust loan growth and historically low delinquency rates. “Moving forward, the agricultural sector will continue to face challenges due to monetary policy actions targeting persistent inflation in the U.S. and reduced federal support,” the ABA says in a news release. Despite the challenges, farm banks maintained strong asset quality and consistent growth in high-quality capital and remain well-positioned to continue serving the needs of their customers and communities. The report also showed that farm banks are a major source of credit for small farmers. Last year, 98.1 percent of farm banks were profitable. *********************************************************************************** Senate Votes to Block Paraguayan Beef Imports The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thanked the Senate for passing a resolution to block beef imports from Paraguay. The resolution comes after the USDA lifted the longstanding ban on Paraguayan beef imports despite the country’s concerning animal health track record. “Our animal health standards are second to none, and we must be vigilant in protecting the U.S. cattle herd from harmful foreign animal diseases that could have a devastating impact on U.S. agriculture,” says Mark Eisele, a Wyoming rancher and NCBA President. “Paraguay’s history of foot-and-mouth disease is a great concern, and anyone who wants to trade with the U.S. must meet our high safety standards.” NCBA specifically called out the outdated animal health data used to make USDA’s decision. “The U.S. government relied on nine-year-old data and site visits from 2008 to 2014 to justify access for Paraguayan beef imports,” says Kent Bacus, NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs. *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Ease Farmland Ownership Transitions Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced new legislation designed to break down barriers to farming and agricultural land ownership. The goal would be to help more Americans pursue farming careers. The bipartisan Farm Transition Act of 2024 would, for the first time, create a Commission on Farm Transitions to study the issues impacting the transition of agricultural operations to the next generation of farmers and ranchers and make recommendations to address those barriers. “Farmland is one of our most valuable assets, contributing to local economies, safeguarding our national food security, and putting us on the map with world-class products,” Baldwin says. “Many people interested in a career in agriculture are getting locked out and having to compete with Wall Street investment firms buying up farmland.” As of 2021, American Farmland Trust says seniors 65 and older owned more than 40 percent of the agricultural land in the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Risking Soybean Processing Industry’s “Overbuild” Demand for soybean oil as a feedstock in the production of renewable diesel is rising as the U.S. aims to increase the adoption of cleaner-burning fuels. Renewable diesel is the preferred replacement for traditional diesel, and U.S. production is predicted to increase sharply in the years ahead. To meet the growing demand for soybean oil, U.S. processors are ramping up their production capacity, expected to increase by 23 percent over the next three years. While processors have benefited from record-high profit margins in recent years, margins will likely moderate. A new report from CoBank says multiple years of record margins have left processors prepared to weather the inevitable margin downturn. However, overbuilding U.S. crush capacity, combined with sustained levels of low processing margins, could threaten the viability of new, high-cost plants. The CoBank report says new crush plants built at higher costs and interest rates will have much higher breakeven costs. *********************************************************************************** Washington State Farmers Concerned About Grizzlies The National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released an environmental impact statement on options to restore grizzlies in the North Cascades area of Washington state. The two agencies say the last grizzly bear sighting in the North Cascade Mountains was in 1996. The bear idea has Washington farmers very concerned. At a House Ag Subcommittee hearing, Rep Dan Newhouse of Washington asked Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack if USDA had been consulted on the proposal. Vilsack thought USDA had but preferred to leave the final decision to the Interior Department. Newhouse says farmers are worried that bears will move out of the zone they’re released in. “The Interior Department that oversees the two agencies is shutting out the voices of my constituents who had expressed serious concerns about the proposals,” Newhouse said. The NCBA and Public Lands Council say they “condemn” the plan to release the bears. *********************************************************************************** The Newest Use for U.S. Soy Involves Chainsaws The newest use for American soy is a biobased oil for chainsaws. Through the Soy Checkoff Research and Development Investment, U.S. soybean farmers are partnering with DEWALT and Dynamic Green Products to announce a groundbreaking sustainable solution. DEWALT’s soy-based Bar & Chain Biodegradable Oil is now available at Home Depot Stores nationwide and on various online platforms. “It’s exciting to see the checkoff investment in this bar and chain oil pay dividends as It becomes widely available to more farmers and the professionals who care for parks, forests, and more,” says Steve Reinhard, USB Chair and Ohio soybean farmer. “This oil is yet another example of U.S. Soy delivering performance and sustainability benefits.” Fifth-generation farmer Bret Davis of Ohio was eager to be an early adopter of the product. “It’s pretty simple: if you grow it, then you should use it,” Davis says. “It works great in my battery-powered chainsaw.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 25, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch March - Grain Stocks and a Good Friday Break 1. March USDA reports: The March USDA Grain Stocks and Prospective Planting reports will be released at 11 a.m. on March 28. We'll post those numbers shortly after 11, with updates and analysis throughout the morning. 2. Spring storm cometh: Cold air from Canada bumping into warmer air to the south is leading to a major storm system this weekend that should last well into next week. Much of the country could see high snowfall totals, blizzard conditions in some areas, some freezing rain, and strong winds. 3. EU responds to Russian grain dumps: European media have been reporting on European Union efforts to slow grain exports from Russia and Belarus in response to the Russia-Ukraine war. EU leaders are attempting to balance excess exports onto world markets from Putin's grain dump while still allowing food supplies into African nations that need it. EU countries are also trying to respond to their own farmers crying foul as Ukraine exports -- needed by that country to shore up its war effort -- have depressed produce and other food prices in bordering countries. 4. Good Friday break: The DTN newsroom will be closed for the Good Friday market holiday, but we'll have breaking news updates throughout the day and weekend. 5. Economic reports to come: Monday at 8 a.m. the Food Price Outlook is released followed by New Home Sales at 9 a.m. and Grain Inspections at 10 a.m. At 2 p.m. we'll watch for the Oil Crop Yearbook and Poultry Slaughter numbers. Tuesday starts with 7:30 a.m. release of Durable Goods Orders, at 8 a.m. we'll see the Case-Shiller Home Price Index and at 9 a.m. the latest Consumer Confidence numbers are out. Wednesday the latest EIA numbers, including ethanol production and inventory, are out at 10 a.m., followed by 2 p.m. Broiler Hatchery report. Thursday we'll watch for the 7:30 a.m. release of Initial Jobless Claims, GDP Revised Q1 reports and Grain Export Sales. At 9 a.m., Pending Home Sales and Consumer Sentiment is out. Then at 11 a.m. is the USDA Grain Stocks and Prospective Planting reports, followed by a 2 pm. release of the Hogs and Pigs report. Friday grain markets are closed for Good Friday; however, some USDA reports are still released that day. At 7:30 a.m. the U.S. Trade Balance, Retail and Wholesale Inventories, Personal Income and the PCE Index reports are released.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 25, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales for February will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report is set for 2 p.m. Thursday will be the busy day this week with Grain Stocks, Prospective Plantings and Hogs and Pigs reports set for release before the Good Friday holiday. Weather A storm system that moved into the Plains and Upper Midwest on Sunday continues in these same areas for Monday, though some areas that were rain switched to snow and some areas that saw snow have switched to rain. Strong winds are leading to blizzard conditions in portions of the Plains. The main cold front will move into the Mississippi Valley Monday with scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which are likely to become severe across the Delta. Cold air funneling into the Plains could be damaging for wheat.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 22, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle on feed report for March 1 is due out at 2 p.m. CDT Friday. Dow Jones' survey is expecting USDA will find 11.75 million head on feed, almost 1% more than a year ago at this time. Traders continue to keep an eye on South American weather. Weather A pair of systems, one north and one south, will move through the eastern portions of the country Friday and Saturday with scattered showers, including some moderate snow across the north. Western states will see showers along the coast as a major system is set to move into the region this weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 22, 2024 |
Colombia Restores Market Access for U.S. Poultry After months of hard work by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the USDA, Columbia reopened its market to U.S. poultry and egg producers. “Ensuring our producers can compete on a level playing field across the globe is a top priority for the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office,” says USTR Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip. “We are pleased that American poultry and egg producers have renewed access to higher income for them, their families, and our rural communities because of efforts to remove this market access barrier.” The Colombian government had stopped issuing import permits for U.S. poultry on August 7, 2023. The government cited concerns over the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The restored market access is another major win for American agriculture. “We’re pleased that Colombia is living up to the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement,” says Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. *********************************************************************************** Ag Leaders Want Certainty on Sustainable Aviation Fuel A multi-state coalition of biofuel and farm advocates asked the Treasury Department to swiftly resolve any questions standing in the way of scaling up U.S. production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. More specifically, they urged the administration to quickly adopt the U.S. Department of Energy’s GREET model for calculating SAF tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. That would complete a process that was supposed to conclude by March 1. “We are disappointed the administration didn’t fulfill its commitment to release a modified GREET model by March 1, but we appreciate the importance of getting the modeling right,” wrote 26 organizations. “At the same time, we caution against contradictory changes to GREET that would stack unwarranted penalties on agricultural feedstocks, cut rural America out of a promising green energy market, and undermine any path to achieving SAF goals.” Groups in the coalition include Clean Fuels Alliance America, Growth Energy, and many others. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Inventories Rise The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output in the U.S. rose week to week, and inventories increased during the seven days ending on March 15. EIS data shows that production rose to an average of 1.04 million barrels a day, up from 1.024 million a week earlier. In the Midwest, which produces the most ethanol in the U.S., total output rose to 995,000 barrels from 973,000 during the previous week. That was the entirety of the weekly gains as the EIS said the remaining regions were unchanged. Gulf Coast production was steady at 21,000 barrels a day, and West Coast output stayed at 8,000 barrels daily. Rocky Mountain and East Coast production were both unchanged at 11,000 barrels a day. Turning to the supply on hand, the EIS said ethanol inventories at the end of the week totaled just over 26 million barrels, up from 25.7 million a week earlier. *********************************************************************************** Food and Ag Industries Have $9.63 Trillion Impact Over thirty agriculture groups released the eighth annual “Feeding the Economy” report. The study helps estimate the direct and indirect economic contributions of the food and agriculture industries on jobs, wages, economic output, and business taxes. The 2024 report’s findings show the total economic impact for the food and agriculturally-related industries grew almost 12 percent over the past year and reached $9.63 trillion. That’s 20 percent of the total U.S. output. Total jobs in the industry reached more than 48 million. Total wages were $2.7 trillion, up 34 percent since the 2020 report. Total taxes were $1.25 trillion, up 37 percent since the 2020 report. Total exports of $181.6 billion were down three percent since 2020. From the 2020 report till now, food and agriculture manufacturing jobs grew at a faster rate than any other job category in America. Agricultural production now accounts for 20 percent of all U.S. manufacturing jobs. *********************************************************************************** More Reaction to the New Tailpipe Emissions Standards Growth Energy joined a number of U.S. agriculture groups expressing disappointment in the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule on vehicle emissions standards. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says since the rule was proposed in April 2023, the administration has heard loud and clear that it would be a mistake to ignore biofuels. “They are a proven, abundant, and American-made solution to reduce emissions,” Skor says. “The final rule offers automakers some limited flexibility, but it fails to include any meaningful changes to ensure we’re not leaving biofuels on the sidelines.” She also points out that experts worldwide agree that EVs alone won’t get the U.S. to a net-zero future. “We need carbon savings within liquid fuels, and that requires a bigger role for American bioethanol,” she says. “It’s baffling to see EPA accept a false choice between only two paths forward – fossil fuel only vehicles or mass adoption of EVS.” *********************************************************************************** Consumers Think Food Prices Still Too High While inflation has eased somewhat, food prices are still high. A study conducted by the University of Illinois and Purdue University asked consumers what type of companies they believe are behind high food prices. “Consumers are frustrated with many downstream actors, like food manufacturers, grocery stores, and restaurants, feeling these groups are overcharging them,” says Brenna Ellison, a Purdue economist and co-author of the study. Two-thirds of consumers consider food manufacturers too big, and over half believe grocery stores have too much control or market share. The survey showed consumers felt farmers were the least to blame. More than 70 percent of consumers believe that restaurants, grocery stores, and food manufacturers are overcharging them. Despite political differences, a significant number of consumers across party lines share concerns about the size of food manufacturers and grocery stores, indicating a bipartisan worry regarding market power despite often significant political differences in the respondents.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 21, 2024 |
Ag Groups React to New EPA Tailpipe Standards The National Corn Growers Association expressed grave concern and disappointment with the Environmental Protection Agency’s final 2027-2032 tailpipe emissions standards. NCGA says the plan still relies almost exclusively on using electric vehicles, a decision that will have long-lasting impacts on the rural economy because it ignores the benefits of ethanol. Economists at the University of Nebraska say the resulting large drop in corn demand will lead to a permanent 50 percent decrease in the price of corn. That could cost the top five corn-producing states well over $100 billion in farmland value. The Renewable Fuels Association says today’s ruling is not the best way to accomplish the administration’s climate goals. “Today’s final rule forces automakers to produce more electric battery vehicles based on the premise that they’re ‘zero-emission’ vehicles,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “The regulation would strongly discourage manufacturers from pursuing other technologies like flex fuel vehicles.” *********************************************************************************** House Ag Committee Dealing with Chinese Influence on U.S. Ag The House Agriculture Committee held a hearing Wednesday regarding concerns over foreign influence on American agriculture. Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) said the more specific purpose of the hearing was to discuss the influence that China has on U.S. agriculture. “I want us to keep in mind that China is an important trading partner to the U.S.,” Scott said in his opening statement. “We need a thorough and policy-heavy conversation so we can help American farmers and our agricultural system navigate this issue.” He also pointed out that China is America’s largest trading partner, accounting for $33.7 billion in U.S. agricultural exports last fiscal year. American farmers produce way more than the country can use domestically, so trade is vital. “My colleagues will often note that we are in an agricultural trade deficit,” he added. “I’m here to tell you that alienating our trade partners will only deepen the deficit.” *********************************************************************************** EV Push Will Drive U.S. Deficit $200 Billion Higher Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Chuck Grassley is increasing his opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s tailpipe emissions proposal. He cites a new cost estimate by the Congressional Budget Office. “The CBO released a ten-year budget and economic outlook projecting a $224 billion increase in the cumulative deficit caused by higher electric vehicle tax credit claims and reduced gas tax revenues,” he says. “CBO noted the EV Rule is the largest factor to contributing to these revisions.” In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Grassley said, “The American taxpayers have not voted for and can’t afford the EPA’s tailpipe standards.” Grassley also noted the challenges the standards pose for auto dealers and wants the agency to clarify its legal authority for promoting the EV Rule. He’d also like the EPA to outline its plans to compensate for the hundreds of billions of dollars in lost tax revenue and extra spending. *********************************************************************************** El Niño’s impact on U.S. Farmers The 2024 growing season is expected to bring a unique combination of El Niño this spring through early summer before switching to La Niña in late summer through early fall. Farmers Business Network says the opposing climate patterns have the potential to trigger significant weather events that could have problematic impacts on crop production. 2023 ended with a strong El Niño, which is weakening now and will end around April. However, the long-term impacts will be felt throughout the growing season. The U.S weather patterns will likely shift back to normal between April and July, followed by a probable La Niña through September. The report also says 2024 planting dates will likely be slightly earlier for wheat and rice while remaining typical for corn and soybeans. Corn, wheat, and soybean yields are expected to increase this year because of El Niño, while rice yields will slightly decline from last year. *********************************************************************************** Mexico to Boost Corn Imports Mexican corn imports are expected to rise during the 2024-2025 marketing year amid increased demand. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service says corn imports are forecast to increase five percent year-over-year to 22 million tons to meet the Mexican government’s forecast of an increasing demand for starch and animal food production. Mexico is the world’s second-largest grain importer behind only China. Successful Farming says relatively lower forecast corn prices compared to the previous year and growing demand from livestock producers and processors will drive up corn imports. The U.S. accounted for more than 85 percent of Mexico’s corn imports. Mexican corn production in the 2024-2025 marketing year starting on October 1 is forecast to jump seven percent to 25 million metric tons due to increased planted area and less abandonment. “Optimism about returning to average rainfall and moisture levels after exceptional drought is expected to incentivize farmers to increase their planted area,” USDA says. *********************************************************************************** USGC Releases the Corn Export Cargo Quality Report The U.S. Grains Council released its 2023-2024 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report which contained some good news. The average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested for the report was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors and represented an improvement on the five-year average of previous crops on several fronts. “The Council is committed to furthering global food security and mutual economic benefit through trade,” says USGC Chair Brent Boydston. “This report will assist buyers in making well-informed decisions by providing reliable and timely information about U.S. corn destined for export.” The average test weight came in at 58.1 pounds per bushel, which was higher than the previous marketing year and the five-year average. Chemical analysis showed an 8.9 percent protein concentration, up from 8.7 percent last year and the five-year average. All samples tested below the Food and Drug Administration’s action level for aflatoxins.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 21, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Reports on U.S. existing home sales in February and U.S. leading indicators are due out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather A clipper-like system is moving into the Northern Plains and will produce a band of snow into the Upper Midwest by Thursday night. At the same time, an upper-level low-pressure system is moving through South-Central states with scattered showers and some thunderstorms of its own, some of which may be severe in eastern Texas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 20, 2024 |
Ag Import Values Outpaced Export Values in 2023 USDA’s Economic Research Service reports U.S. agricultural imports exceeded exports by $16.6 billion in fiscal year 2023. For nearly 60 years, U.S. agricultural trade maintained a surplus, but in fiscal year 2019, the balance shifted to a deficit, where it has stayed three out of the last five fiscal years. Imports have largely followed a stable upward trend, while exports have had relatively wide swings. From 2013 to 2023, import values increased at a compound annual growth rate of 5.8 percent, and exports grew at a rate of 2.1 percent. Although the U.S. agricultural trade balance is closely watched, it reflects changing consumer tastes, a robust economy, and a strong dollar, and is not an indicator of export competitiveness or import dependence. USDA says the U.S. consumer’s growing appetite for high-valued imported goods—such as fruits and vegetables, alcoholic beverages, and processed grain products—has contributed to the expanding trade deficit. *********************************************************************************** MU Releases New Baseline Food and Agricultural Outlook Farm commodity prices have tumbled from the peak levels they rose to during spring 2022 — and new projections suggest that downward pressure on prices could continue throughout 2024 and beyond. The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri recently released its annual agricultural market baseline outlook. The outlook provides projections for agricultural and biofuel markets and serves as a point of reference for evaluating alternative scenarios for food and agricultural policy. Another key finding from the report is that net farm income is projected to fall to its lowest level since 2020. For consumers, food price inflation slowed in 2023, and FAPRI's report suggests that this trend could continue in 2024. The consumer price index for food is anticipated to increase 2.1 percent in 2024, with the lion's share of the increase coming from food away from home. The annual report summarizes ten-year "baseline" projections for several economic indicators, and can be found on the FAPRI website. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Grants for Urban Agriculture The Department of Agriculture is accepting grant applications to support urban agriculture and innovative production. Chief of USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, Terry Cosby, says, "These projects will add to the important work communities are doing to build food security in underserved areas." Since 2020, the grants have invested more than $46.8 million in 186 projects across the country, and they're part of USDA's broad support for urban and innovative producers. UAIP grants are available to a wide range of individuals and entities, including local and Tribal governments, nonprofits, and schools. The program provides grants for two types of projects: Planning Projects and Implementation Projects. The program was established through the 2018 Farm Bill. It is led by NRCS and works in partnership with numerous USDA agencies that support urban agriculture and innovative production. Applications for USDA’s Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production grants are due April 9, 2024, via grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Noble Research Institute Partners with Ranch Management Consultants Noble Research Institute Ranch Management Consultants Tuesday announced a collaboration with an exclusive licensing agreement granting Noble use of RMC's Ranching for Profit program content. Noble will design and develop a suite of educational, skill-building products incorporating both Noble-developed and Ranching for Profit content. The first Noble product benefiting from this relationship, Noble Business Essentials, is scheduled to be launched in June 2024. Noble's purpose is to save U.S. grazing lands by promoting land stewardship through regenerative management, building soil health and keeping ranchers on the land. RMC has been recognized in agriculture business training for more than four decades. Noble's Business Essentials will provide easy-to-understand financial strategies for farmers and ranchers. The program is the third of Noble's Essentials series, including Noble Land Essentials and Noble Grazing Essentials. RMC's Ranching for Profit schools, a 7-day learning program, are designed to help ranchers and farmers find the breakthroughs needed to improve the health of their land, the profitability of their business and the quality of their life. *********************************************************************************** Researchers: Blue-Green Algae Can Protect Honey Bees Scientists at USDA’s Agricultural Research developed an edible antiviral treatment that can be used to protect honey bees against Deformed Wing Virus and other viruses. Honeybees are important agricultural pollinators. However, viruses, including DWV, are linked to the deaths of millions of colonies worldwide. These colony losses devastate beekeeping industries and pose a major risk to agriculture and the global food supply. While there are medicines for other bee diseases and parasites, there is currently no treatment available to help beekeepers reduce viruses in their colonies. Researchers found that engineered algae diets suppressed DWV infection and improved survival in honeybees. When mixed into bee food, the engineered algae boost the bee’s immune system to fight off the targeted virus. The researchers filed a patent application for the technology and plan to use variations of it to target additional bee viruses and other pathogens in future studies. *********************************************************************************** Cargill Awards More Than $3 Million Grant to National FFA Organization Cargill awarded a three-year grant of $3.15 million to the National FFA Organization in support of its commitment to shape future agriculture leaders. The grant supports various National FFA Organization programs and events during the three-year period, including the organization's sustainability platform, the equity, diversity and inclusion pathway, and the Living to Serve program. During the National FFA Convention & Expo, the grant supports a booth, the rodeo and travel grants for career development event participants. In addition, the funding supports the American FFA Degree and the American Star Awards. Cargill's grant also supports programs that encourage the exploration of career pathways in agriculture. National FFA and Cargill look forward to continued partnership to ensure an even greater impact in the remaining two years of the grant. FFA’s Molly Ball says, “This grant allows us to reach more members and continue providing new opportunities that help feed the talent pipeline."
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 20, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by a Fed rate announcement at 1 p.m. Most expect the Fed to keep the federal funds rate target unchanged at 5.25% to 5.50%. Traders continue to keep close watch on South American weather. Weather A cold front that moved through the north on Tuesday continues farther south on Wednesday with colder temperatures settling across northern areas. That will continue some lake-effect snows in the Great Lakes and snow will start to develop in the Northern Plains as a system starts to move into the Pacific Northwest. An upper-level low in the Southwest will finally start to move eastward into the Southern Plains where some showers will be possible as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 19, 2024 |
Senators Demand Increase in Ag Exports A group of Senate Republicans are demanding the Biden administration take action to increase agricultural exports. The group of 19 Senators penned a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urging them to increase U.S. agricultural exports and improve the competitiveness of U.S. products abroad. The letter says, “The current sharp decline in U.S. agricultural exports is directly attributable to and exacerbated by an unambitious U.S. trade strategy that is failing to meaningfully expand market access or reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade.” The lawmakers say diminishing access to foreign agricultural markets for U.S. industries creates significant economic headwinds and jeopardizes the livelihoods of more than one million American workers, farmers, and ranchers. For the 2023 marketing year, nearly 70 million acres of major crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat were planted to meet the demands of foreign customers. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek USDA Telework Policy Investigation Two Senate Agriculture Committee members are questioning the Department of Agriculture's telework policy. Republicans John Boozman of Arkansas and Joni Ernst of Iowa request USDA's Inspector General build upon its oversight of the federal agency's telework abuse and expand its investigation into the department's footprint and workforce. In a letter, Boozman and Ernst called for an enhanced investigation after USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack was questioned during a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing last month. The committee focused on a department supervisor's revelation to the committee that the agency's headquarters resemble a "ghost town," to which the secretary claimed that his employees and managers are in the D.C. office "a majority of the week." The letter states, "Secretary Vilsack's apparent misapprehension regarding the telework posture of his workforce underlines the importance of comprehensive reviews, audits, and evaluations of the USDA's telework, locality pay, and space utilization policies." The letter requests a response by March 27, 2024. *********************************************************************************** FAS Expands Presence in Mexico with New Guadalajara Office The Department of Agriculture is expanding its footprint in Mexico by opening the Foreign Agricultural Service's newest foreign office in Guadalajara last week. FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley says, "The decision to establish this new office reflects the importance of our agriculture and trade relationship with Mexico." Whitley presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 11 with Consul General Amy Scanlon from the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara. U.S.-Mexico bilateral trade in agricultural and related products reached a record of more than $76 billion in 2023, benefiting the entire supply chain, from producers to processors to shippers to consumers, making high-quality farm and food products more readily available on both sides of the border. Guadalajara is Mexico's second-largest city and is the capital of the of the of Jalisco in west-central Mexico. The region is considered Mexico's breadbasket, home to large agricultural production and processing industries, and an important economic, cultural, and commercial center. ***********************************************************************************| NPPC Applauds USDA Purchase of More Pork for Nutrition Programs Using funds from its Commodity Credit Corporation, the Department of Agriculture is purchasing an additional 33.5 million pounds of pork — worth more than $78.6 million — for distribution to various food nutrition and assistance programs. Earlier this year, USDA bought $25 million of pork under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935, which authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make commodity purchases, entitlement purchases, and disaster assistance using funds appropriated annually from U.S. customs receipts. The National Pork Producers Council applauded USDA’s purchase and says the organization will continue working with the agency to identify additional opportunities to find support for U.S. pork producers during challenging market conditions. The U.S. pork industry has faced a challenging economic market over the past 18 months, with producers losing an average of $30 — sometimes $40 to $60 — on each hog marketed in 2023. NPPC says these pork purchases provide much-needed support to the hog and wholesale pork markets and secure affordable, nutritious pork products for USDA recipient programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Infant Formula Rebates Reduce WIC Spending Rebates for infant formula help reduce costs of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that from 1989 to 2022, savings to WIC from the rebates totaled $71.9 billion in inflation-adjusted 2022 dollars, or 23 percent. Without the rebates, the Federal Government would have spent about $307.5 billion on the WIC program over that period. With the rebates, the Government spent $235.6 billion. The greatest savings come from strategies used to contain the costs of providing infant formula through the program. Since 1989, most WIC state agencies have used competitive bidding to award contracts to a single manufacturer to serve as the formula of first choice for infant participants in their state. In return, manufacturers offer WIC State agencies rebates for each unit of formula sold through the program. State agencies responsible for implementing WIC use cost-containment strategies to reduce program costs. *********************************************************************************** Gas Higher Again, Diesel Lower The national average gas price increased for the third consecutive week, climbing 4.4 cents from a week ago to $3.44 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 18.7 cents from a month ago and 1.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a rise of 3.1 percent for the week. The national average diesel price declined 2.2 cents last week and is $4.00 per gallon—28 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "For now, gas prices will likely continue to trend higher, but the fever may break soon." Refinery output is starting to increase as the maintenance season comes to an end. When it comes to diesel, above-average temperatures have lowered heating oil demand, and average diesel prices are on the cusp of falling back below $4 per gallon. The most common U.S. diesel price stood at $3.89 per gallon.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 19, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in February will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday. The Federal Reserve starts its two-day meeting and is expected to keep the federal funds rate unchanged on Wednesday. Traders continue to keep an eye on South American weather and recent events in Ukraine. Weather A clipper system is moving through the Great Lakes Tuesday. A cold front following behind it will be bringing in a fresh round of colder air to the northern tier of the country, setting the stage for an active and snowier pattern for the rest of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 18, 2024 |
Justice Department, FTC Statements on Right to Repair The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division and Federal Trade Commission submitted comments to the U.S. Copyright Office advocating for regulations that would facilitate the right to repair. The agencies are in favor of consumers and businesses getting to repair their own equipment. The Copyright Office is considering whether to recommend that the Library of Congress renew and expand temporary exemptions to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act’s prohibition against the circumvention of technology protection measures that control access to copyrighted content. In their comments, the agencies said that renewing and expanding repair-related exemptions would promote competition in markets for replacement parts, repair and maintenance services, and facilitate competition in markets for repairable products. “Promoting competition in repair markets benefits consumers and businesses by making it easier and cheaper to fix the things they own,” the comments say. “Expanding repair exemptions can also remove barriers limiting independent service providers from doing their work.” *********************************************************************************** Bill Solidifies Critical Fertilizer Minerals The Fertilizer Institute thanks the U.S. Senate for introducing bipartisan legislation to include phosphate and potash on the final list of critical minerals of the Department of the Interior. TFI says the legislation will recognize the importance of ensuring a strong and sustainable domestic fertilizer supply for American farmers. ‘The majority of the world’s phosphate and potash resources are concentrated in only a few countries, leaving them open to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The events of the last few years have shown us that food security is national security, and now is the time to change how we talk about these vital resources.” The U.S. imports about 95 percent of its potash needs, the bulk of which comes from Canada. Only 14 countries in the world produce potash. “This will help us take significant strides toward securing our food supply,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Farms Dropped 40 Percent in 20 Years The Economic Research Service says the number of U.S. wheat farms has dropped substantially over time. Since 2002, the total number of wheat farms fell by over 40 percent, from 169,528 in 2002 to 97,014 in 2022. In addition to the decline in wheat farms, wheat production is down slightly but has been variable year to year. The ERS says annual wheat production ranged from about 1.6 billion bushels in marketing year 2002-2003 to as much as 2.5 billion bushels in 2008-2009. However, wheat production didn’t exceed two billion bushels from 2017 through 2023. The ERS says the reduction in the number of farms reporting wheat harvested area occurred across all wheat classes. The number of farms producing durum wheat saw the largest percentage drop, down nearly 60 percent from the 2002 Census and 30 percent from the 2017 Census. Only five states saw increases in the number of wheat farms. *********************************************************************************** USDA Issues March Livestock Outlook In 2024, U.S. beef exports are expected to be about 83 percent lower than those in 2023. The drop is due to lower beef production this year brought on by tightening cattle supplies and tougher global competition from beef exporting countries like Australia. Pork exports are forecast to increase by almost 4.6 percent from 2023 due to higher domestic production and less global competition from the European Union. Broiler exports this year are expected to decline about 1.4 percent compared to last year due to higher domestic prices and weak demand from China. Turkey is expected to be competitively priced in 2024, with exports forecast to be up 6.4 percent compared to last year. Compared with 2023, dairy exports on a skim-solids milk-equivalent basis should increase slightly this year by 0.2 percent. Relatively strong domestic demand for dairy products and limited growth in milk production will likely limit export growth. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Organic Promotion The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service awarded about $40.5 million for 60 grant projects through the Organic Market Development Grant Program. These projects will support the development of new and existing organic markets, support the infrastructure to improve processing capacity, explore emerging technologies to promote organic products, and purchase equipment to help meet the increasing demand for organic commodities. USDA anticipates the projects funded through this program will benefit more than 27,000 producers and over 31.8 million consumers by increasing organic market opportunities. “Farmers who choose to grow organic often access new, more, and better markets,” says USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “At USDA, we are committed to making it easier for farmers who make that choice through programs like the Organic Market Development Grant Program, which supports farmers and increases access to fresh, healthy foods.” This round of awards will address critical needs within the nation’s growing organic industry. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Lovers Month a Success February was Lamb Lovers month. The 2024 ad campaign called “Show Us Your Chops” reached over 125,000 culinary enthusiasts across three targeted demographics. The campaign helped drive more than 10,000 unique visitors to the American Lamb Board’s consumer website. Once on the site, visitors learned more about American Lamb, had access to recipes, and had the option to enter a campaign contest to win a Dutch oven and two racks of American Lamb. “This campaign proved to be a cost-effective advertising campaign for reaching culinary enthusiasts and provided some key insights into various demographics targeted by the campaign,” says ALB chairman Jeff Ebert. The campaign ran ads on Facebook and Instagram targeting consumers interested in dining and cooking. The audience was then subdivided into three categories by age and stage of life. They include “Culinary Curious” at 28-34 years old, “Culinary Hustlers” at 35-44 years old, and “Culinary Connoisseurs” at 48-67.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 18, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - National Ag Day, Cold Clipper Coming 1. National Ag Day, March 19: Sunday is St. Patrick's Day, and with the warm winter things are beginning to green up around the country. That also means it's time for National Ag Day, March 19. There will be celebrations around the U.S., and a number of observances and festivities in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday. DTN, which is a sponsor of the Agriculture Council of American that organizes National Ag Day, will be on hand in the nation's capital 2. Podcasts hit hot topics: In addition to timely news coverage, we explore the background of many of our top stories via the Progressive Farmer Field Posts podcasts. The latest, a wrap-up of the 2024 Commodity Classic, is up in our podcast area, and next week we'll have a summation of Ag Day events. Podcast host Sarah Mock will be interviewing DTN Editor-in-Chief Greg Horstmeier on those topics. 3. Cattle on Feed Report Friday: As noted below, Friday is the latest Cattle on Feed Report numbers; we'll have a preview by DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart earlier in the week and analysis of the latest numbers Friday afternoon. 4. Cool clipper coming: The previous week ended like a lion, with storms, hail and tornado damage around the Midwest. That will be followed by a clipper system will quickly move through the Midwest this weekend and will send a stronger cold front and burst of below-normal temperatures through the country going into early next week. The storm will also produce lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, 9 a.m. has the Grain Inspections and the Home Builder Confidence Index. Tuesday, we'll see the 7:30 a.m. release of February Housing Starts and Building Permits. Wednesday, at 1 p.m. we expect the latest Federal Reserve interest-rate decision, followed by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's press conference at 1:30. At 2 p.m. we'll see the Broiler Hatchery report. Thursday starts early with 7:30 a.m. release of Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims. At 8:45 a.m. there is the S&P Services and Manufacturing PMIs. At 9 a.m. the U.S. Leading Economic Indicators and Existing Home Sales reports hit, followed by Livestock Slaughter numbers at 2 p.m. On Friday, at 2 p.m. is the U.S. Cattle on Feed and Chicken and Eggs reports.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 18, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Traders will return from the weekend and quickly catch up on the latest weather forecasts for South America. USDA's weekly export inspections report will be out at 10 a.m. CDT with more shipments needed for wheat as the season ticks down. On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve probably won't change the federal funds rate target, but traders will be listening for clues from Chairman Jerome Powell. Weather A cold front that moved through most of the country over the weekend is building some cold air into most areas east of the Rockies on Monday. The colder air is producing some lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes and late frosts across the Deep South for Monday night.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 15, 2024 |
Advocating Amid Decline in Ag Exports Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and John Thune (R-SD) joined colleagues in urging U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to improve ag export opportunities. They joined Senators John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Mike Crapo (CRAY-po) (R-Idaho) in writing a letter to Vilsack and Tai acknowledging that trade fluctuates because of macroeconomic factors and market conditions. “However, the current sharp decline in U.S. agricultural exports is directly attributable to and exacerbated by an unambitious U.S. trade strategy that’s failing to meaningfully expand market access or reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade,” the senators wrote in a letter. “While the administration refuses to pursue trade agreements, China, Canada, the EU, the United Kingdom, and others continue to ink trade pacts that diminish American export opportunities and global economic influence.” Grassley, Thune, and Boozman serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee while Crapo is the top Republican on the Senate Finance Committee. *********************************************************************************** Risk Management Tool for Specialty and Smaller Producers The Risk Management Agency knows that finding the right risk management tools for specialty crops and smaller-scale farmers can be overwhelming. That’s why the RMA created a new searchable directory of crop insurance agents who have experience selling Whole Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm policies. With 1,135 crop insurance agents listed and providing coverage in all 50 states, the process of finding the “right risk management fit” got easier. “The new tool is part of RMA’s efforts to make crop insurance more equitable and accessible for all producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Whole Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm are two of the most comprehensive risk management plans available, and they are especially important to specialty crop, organic, urban, and direct-market producers.” The tool also includes regional specialists located in each of the RMA’s regional offices. Specialty crop producers and small-scale producers can go to rma.usda.gov for more information. *********************************************************************************** World Pork Expo is in June The National Pork Producers Council announces the World Pork Expo returns on June 5-6 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. Though pork producers have faced their share of challenges, the annual Expo showcases the best the industry offers in the form of educational and networking opportunities not found anywhere else. The world’s largest pork-specific trade show returns with more than 700 booths showcasing the latest and greatest in pork production technology and services. Just some of the things attendees can expect include a new schedule with two days filled with seminars, networking, and innovation from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. It’s also a chance to connect with over 10,000 industry professionals in the ultimate meeting place for pork producers. It’s a festival atmosphere, including a celebration of pork with new entertainment, blending professional insights with a lot of fun. For more information, attendees should go to worldpork.org. *********************************************************************************** Strengthening the U.S. Bioeconomy The USDA released a plan to boost biomass supply chain resiliency for domestic biobased product manufacturing. The plan will also advance environmental sustainability and market opportunities for small and mid-sized producers. The plan is called “Building a Resilient Biomass Supply.” “The increasing demand for biomass is a golden opportunity to expand markets and create new revenue for American farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners, particularly in rural areas,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This comprehensive roadmap will strengthen our production and pre-processing systems to provide incentives for producers and manufacturers so that biomass can be used to fuel the American economy.” Biomass is organic material that comes from crop residues, agricultural and food wastes, forest residuals, livestock, as well as biomass crops that are grown specifically as feedstocks to produce biobased products. Biobased products contributed $489 billion to the U.S. economy in 2021, a more than five percent increase from 2020. *********************************************************************************** Purina Offering $20,000 in Scholarships Purina Animal Health, along with the Land O’ Lakes Foundation, has opened its scholarship program designed to assist students with experience in agriculture and livestock production to pursue their education. Now, along with undergraduate students, current high school seniors who have experience in raising and caring for small or large livestock, equine, or poultry, are eligible to apply for one of four $5,000 scholarships. Along with the impact animal agriculture has had on their lives, desired applicants will be able to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, community involvement, and have a clear vision for their future. Scholarship applications will be accepted March 18 through April 17. Applicants will receive their scholarship funds for the Fall 2024 semester at their current or anticipated education institution. The scholarship is open for high school seniors enrolling in full-time undergraduate studies and undergraduate students enrolled in a two or four-year college or vocational-technical school. *********************************************************************************** Australian Farmers More Confident After Rainfall Widespread rainfall and improving livestock prices are giving Australian farmers more confidence than they’ve had in a couple of years. A survey published this week shows Australian farmers’ confidence levels at their highest point in two years. Australia is one of the world’s biggest agricultural exporters and a top competitor of the United States. An El Nino weather pattern last year sank farmers’ confidence as the weather brought dry conditions that hammered crop yields hard and pushed livestock markets lower. Unexpected rain across the southern and eastern parts of the country during the southern hemisphere’s summer season has turned pastures green, pushed sheep and cattle prices higher, and raised the prospect of bigger harvests. Reuters says some forecasters expect El Nino to flip to La Nina later this year. That typically brings wetter weather to eastern Australia. More farmers are positive than negative in expectations for the first time since June 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 15, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's report of U.S. industrial production for February will be out at 8:15 a.m. CST Friday. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for March will follow at 9 a.m. Traders remain interested in South American weather and will keep an eye on April crude oil prices that closed at a new four-month high on Thursday. Weather A system that has brought heavy thunderstorms and severe weather to parts of the Plains and Midwest the past couple of days continues in the Southeast for Friday. Storms are not expected to be as strong as the past couple of days but could still be severe across the southern tier. An upper-level low-pressure center in the Southwest will keep the Four Corners and front range areas active with showers and snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 14, 2024 |
Trade Mission Offers New Opportunities in South Korea Representatives from 49 U.S. companies and organizations will join the Department of Agriculture agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea. Led by Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor, the mission takes place March 25-28. Undersecretary Taylor says, "I'm confident that this trade mission will produce great results for America's farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and exporters, as we work to strengthen trade with our existing partners and expand and diversify the products we offer." South Korea ranks as the United States' fifth-largest single-export market. Also, as one of the fastest-growing economies in the developed world during the past several decades, and with relatively small amounts of arable land, South Korea relies heavily on imported agricultural goods, especially meat and bulk commodities, to satisfy food and feed demand. While on the trade mission, participants will engage in targeted 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 Korean consumer food trends. *********************************************************************************** Overall Tractor Sales Lower Compared to February 2023 Unit sales of 100+ horsepower ag tractors increased slightly in February 2024 in the U.S., according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. The month recorded an increase of 2.8 percent compared to February 2023. However, year-to-date data reflects sales below 2023 in total units of ag tractors and combines. Ag tractor sales dipped 14.2 percent, while combines finished under 18.9 percent. In Canada, combine sales jumped 27.2 percent in February 2024 compared to 2023, and are up a total of 6.3 percent year-to-date compared to last year. A total of 131 combines were sold in February, adding to the overall year-to-date sales of 255 units. AEM's Curt Blades says, "The combine sales in Canada are a bright spot when we take a deeper look at February's performance," adding, "The uptick in sales of 100+ horsepower ag tractors in the U.S. also bodes well for the long-term strength of our industry moving forward." Total ag tractor sales fell in Canada by 28.2% year-to-date compared to 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Iowa leads States in Hog Production New data confirms Iowa is the top producer of hogs in the United States, with about $10.9 billion in cash receipts in 2022, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Cash receipts represent the value of sales of hogs by farmers to processors or final users. Following Iowa are Minnesota, North Carolina, and Illinois, with cash receipts of $3.6 billion, $3.1 billion, and $2.1 billion, respectively. Iowa accounted for about 35.5 percent of the $30.6 billion in total U.S. cash receipts for hogs in 2022. The top ten hog-producing states cumulatively accounted for 87.6 percent of hog receipts. In the latest Hogs and Pigs report from USDA, the National Agricultural Statistics Service indicated there were nearly 75 million hogs in the United States as of December 1, 2023. USDA’s Economic Research Service estimates farm sector cash receipts—the cash income received from agricultural commodity sales—three times each year. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Fights Hunger Through Harvest for All Program Farm families from across the nation donated 31 million pounds of food and raised $425,879 to help fight hunger in 2023 through Farm Bureau’s “Harvest for All” program. Combined, the monetary and food donations totaled the equivalent of 26 million meals. Now in its 22nd year, Harvest for All is spearheaded by members of Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers program, but members of all ages from across the nation contribute to the effort. AFBF’s YF&R Committee Chair Kevin Lussier says, “Farm Bureau’s commitment to helping put food on the tables of those in need through Harvest for All remains strong.” Florida Farm Bureau took top honors for donating the most food in 2023, 22 million pounds, while Michigan Farm Bureau took top honors for raising the most money in 2023, $222,000. In addition to raising food and funds, farmers and ranchers tallied 21,571 hours for local food insecurity efforts and other community service. *********************************************************************************** Walmart Announces New Milk Processing Facility in Texas Walmart recently announced an investment in a new milk processing facility in Robinson, Texas, that will open in 2026. The facility will support nearly 400 jobs in the community and allow Walmart to meet the growing demand from customers. Walmart's Bruce Heckman says, "This new facility continues our commitment to building a more resilient and transparent supply chain and ensuring our customers' needs are met for this everyday staple." Walmart has been working across its food offerings to deliver increased transparency about where products come from and ensure supply for grocery essentials. It opened its first milk processing facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 2018, and its second facility in Valdosta, Georgia, is expected to open in 2025. Additional investments include opening its first case-ready beef facility in Thomasville, Georgia, building a second case-ready beef facility in Olathe, Kansas, and making equity investments and long-term commercial agreements with Sustainable Beef LLC and vertical farming company Plenty. *********************************************************************************** Texas Reports More than $800,000 in Wildfire Donations Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced Wednesday the state has received more than $800,000 in donations for wildfire relief. The donations are through the State of Texas Agriculture Relief, or STAR Fund. Miller says, “The overwhelming response demonstrates the strength of our Texas spirit and our commitment to standing together in times of crisis." To date, more than 1,600 individuals have donated to the fund that will provide financial assistance, helping farmers rebuild and recover from the unprecedented damage. The STAR Fund, administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture, provides financial assistance to agricultural producers who have suffered losses due to natural disasters, including wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and droughts. The funds collected will be distributed directly to those in need to help cover expenses such as livestock feed, fencing repairs, and other essential recovery efforts. Those who wish to contribute to the STAR Fund can visit the Texas Department of Agriculture website for more information.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 14, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets DTN's Ag Summit Series continues at 8 a.m. CST Thursday for those that registered (see ). USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. producer prices and retail sales for February and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook for March at 2 p.m. Weather A system is moving through the middle of the country Thursday with scattered showers and thunderstorms. It has already produced large hail in Kansas and northern Missouri and will spread that threat out from northeast Texas to Ohio today. Large hail is again the biggest threat, but tornadoes and strong winds are also possible. Heavy snow continues in the Four Corners and front range areas as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 13, 2024 |
February Grocery Prices Unchanged Grocery prices held steady in the latest Consumer Price Index by the Department of Labor. While food prices stayed flat, the overall index increased .4 percent, following a .3 percent increase in January. Three of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month. The index for dairy and related products decreased 0.6 percent in February, led by a 1.1 percent decline in the index for cheese and related products. The fruits and vegetables index decreased 0.2 percent over the month, as did the nonalcoholic beverages index. The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.5 percent in February, following a 0.2 percent decrease in January. The meats, poultry, fish, and eggs index also increased over the month, rising 0.1 percent. The index for other food at home was unchanged over the month. The food away from home index rose 0.1 percent in February after rising 0.5 percent in January. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Announces Broadband, Drinking Water Investments Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced funding for high speed internet and drinking water systems for tribal communities. The Department of Agriculture is investing $58 million in Tribal communities in Nevada, Oklahoma and South Dakota. The funding will support economic development, high-speed internet deployment and modern infrastructure. The projects are being financed through the ReConnect Program and the Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants to Alleviate Health Risks on Tribal Lands Program. Vilsack says, “USDA is committed to building our economy from the middle out and bottom-up by bringing high-speed internet, clean water and critical infrastructure to people in small towns and communities everywhere." Vilsack made the announcement at one of the nation's largest Tribal economic development conferences, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development's Reservation Economic Summit in Las Vegas, Nevada. Investments in the announcement were made possible by various USDA Rural Development programs. *********************************************************************************** Farms Received Nearly a Quarter of Each Food-at-home Dollar in 2022 In 2022, farm establishments received 24.1 cents for each dollar spent on food at home and 3.6 cents for each dollar spent on food away from home. These amounts, called farm shares, highlight the different paths that food takes from farms to consumers' points of purchase, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Food-at-home dollars include food purchases from outlets such as grocery stores, supermarkets, and wholesale clubs that are meant to be prepared at home. Food-away-from-home dollars include food purchases at restaurants, including delivery and carry-out, and other venues where the food is eaten on the premises. The remainder of each food dollar makes up the marketing share, which is the total value of processing, transportation, retailing, and other activities that get food from farm operations to points of purchase for consumers. In 2022, the marketing share was 75.9 cents per food-at-home dollar and 96.4 cents per food-away-from-home dollar. *********************************************************************************** USCA Calls Product of USA Rule a Victory The United States Cattlemen's Association calls USDA's final voluntary 'Product of USA' rule a victory. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the rule Monday at the National Farmers Union annual convention. USCA has worked tirelessly to clarify years of confusion at the consumer level regarding the labeling of U.S. beef products. Starting in 2017, USCA's Director Emeritus Leo McDonnell led a nationwide fundraising effort of cattle producers nationwide that initiated federal rulemaking to close the loophole created by the 2015 repeal of mandatory country-of-origin labeling. The final rule announced yesterday follows a request made by the USCA in a petition for rulemaking submitted to USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service in 2019. McDonnel stated, "This announcement takes the necessary steps to bring back truth in labeling." USCA President Justin Tupper added, "USCA is thrilled that the final rule finally closes this loophole by accurately defining what these voluntary origin claims mean. *********************************************************************************** USDA Identifies 2024 Food for Progress Priority Countries The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the 2024 Food for Progress Priority Countries. USDA, through its administration of the Food for Progress Program, helps developing countries and emerging democracies modernize and strengthen their agricultural sectors. U.S. agricultural commodities donated to recipient countries are sold on the local market, and the proceeds are used to support agricultural, economic, or infrastructure development programs. Food for Progress has two principal objectives: to improve agricultural productivity and to expand the trade of agricultural products. For Fiscal Year 2024, Food for Progress anticipates awarding seven new cooperative agreements for projects of three- to five years in duration. Priority countries include Benin, Cambodia, Madagascar, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Tunisia. When available, the FY 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunity and information on how to apply will be published on Grants.gov. Past Food for Progress projects have trained farmers in animal and plant health, helped improve farming methods, and developed road and utility systems. *********************************************************************************** California Sets E85 Sales Record in 2023 California, in 2023, set a new E85 sales record. Growth Energy welcomed the new California Air Resources Board data this week. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "Californians used more E85 than ever last year, a fact that demonstrates how enthusiastic consumers are about higher biofuel blends." Skor encouraged policymakers to take note of the rise of E85 in California and to find ways to lower consumer costs by increasing biofuels' share of the American fuel tank. However, Skor also called on California to fast-track approval of E15. California is the only state in the U.S. where E15--a blend made with 15 percent bioethanol that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approves for use in all vehicles made in model year 2001 and newer--is not approved for sale. Still, fuel retailers in the state have taken steps to sell more E85 to California drivers.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 13, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, including ethanol production. Traders remain attentive to South American weather and we are getting closer to USDA's report of Prospective Plantings survey, due out at the end of March. Weather A large storm system will be developing in the Central and Southern Plains on Wednesday, bringing widespread showers and thunderstorms there and to the western Midwest. Some thunderstorms could be strong to severe across northeast Kansas and northern Missouri Wednesday evening.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 12, 2024 |
USDA Finalizes “Product of USA” Label Claim Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced the finalization of a rule to align the voluntary “Product of USA” label claim with consumer understanding of what the claim means. Vilsack made the announcement during a speech to attendees of the National Farmers Union Annual Convention in Scottdale, Arizona. Vilsack says, “This final rule will ensure that when consumers see ‘Product of USA’ they can trust the authenticity of that label and know that every step involved.” USDA’s final rule allows the voluntary “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” label claim to be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when they are derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. The rule will prohibit misleading U.S. origin labeling in the market, and help ensure that the information consumers receive about where their food comes from is truthful. Establishments voluntarily using a claim subject to the final rule must comply with the new regulatory requirements by January 1, 2026. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Deadline Nears Farmers not yet enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage or Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year have until March 15, 2024, to revise elections and sign contracts. Both safety net programs, delivered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency, support to farmers who experience substantial declines in crop prices or revenues for the 2024 crop year. Producers can elect coverage and enroll in ARC-County or PLC, which provide crop-by-crop protection, or ARC-Individual, which protects the entire farm. Although election changes for 2024 are optional, producers must enroll, with a signed contract, each year. If a producer has a multi-year contract on the farm, the contract will continue for 2024 unless an election change is made. If producers do not submit their election revision by the March 15, 2024, deadline, the election remains the same as their 2023 election for eligible commodities on the farm. For more information on ARC and PLC, contact your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Influence Fluctuations in Beef Cattle Herd New data from USDA Economic Research Service shows that changes in drought conditions impact the size of the U.S. beef cattle herd. Specifically, when the percentage of land area of drought increases for an extended period as noted in the U.S. Drought Monitor, the U.S. beef cattle herd often declines. In 2023, with more than 65 percent of U.S. land area in drought, the U.S. beef cattle herd declined roughly 2.5 percent. When drought conditions diminish forage production and availability, beef cattle producers often must buy supplemental feed and forage or reduce their herd size. Periods of more intense drought are associated with decreases in the U.S. beef cattle herd size, such as when the national beef cattle herd shrank about one to two percent a year during drought between 2011 and 2015. Other factors outside of drought conditions also influence changes in the beef cattle herd size, including feed and forage prices, extreme precipitation events, supply chain issues, and the natural life cycles of livestock. *********************************************************************************** World to Rebuild Rural Ukraine Released February Export Data World to Rebuild Rural Ukraine reports Ukraine managed to export eight million metric tons of agricultural products in February, 3.4 percent more than the previous month. Of that, 5.2 million metric tons were exported through the sea corridor, a record volume since the beginning of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since August 2023, 19 million metric tons of agricultural products have been shipped to foreign markets, which is 68 percent of the total volume of cargo. Ukraine has shipped 2.5 million metric tons of grain and oil through the Danube ports during the first months of 2024. Meanwhile, exports of sunflower oil in February exceeded last year's figure by 50 percent as 603,000 metric tons were exported. And Ukraine exported 8,500 metric tons of dairy products in February, and increase of 22 percent from last year. With planting season underway, WRRU reports costs for the four main expense components—fertilizers, chemicals, seed and fuel are down five percent this year for grains and four percent for oilseeds. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Inch Higher, Diesel Lower The nation’s average gas price is inching towards its year-ago level while diesel fell in the last week. GasBuddy reports the nation’s average price of gasoline increased 6.2 cents from a week ago to $3.40 per gallon. The national average is up 23.0 cents from a month ago and 4.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price fell 1.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.02 per gallon—30 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Much of the seasonal rise that happens this time of year is a culmination of refinery maintenance, the switch to summer gasoline, and rising demand.” However, if refineries continue to boost output of products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, it could mean earlier-than-expected relief. De Haan says the changeover is still in process, so the nation will likely see the continuation of upward pressure on prices, for now. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Recognizes Graduates of Partners in Advocacy Leadership Class The American Farm Bureau Federation recently honored ten leaders in agriculture as graduates of the organization’s 11th Partners in Advocacy Leadership class. PAL was designed to help agricultural leaders accelerate their engagement abilities and solidify their roles as advocates for agriculture. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “We look forward to seeing how their dedication to advocating on agricultural issues will continue to benefit rural communities at the local, state and national level.” The training involves four learning modules designed to develop specific advocacy skills, including storytelling, policy development and stakeholder engagement. The modules build on one another over the two years of the program and include intense, in-person, hands-on training. Applications for PAL Class 12 will be accepted through March 25 and must be approved by the applicant’s state Farm Bureau president. To be eligible for the program, candidates must be between the ages of 30 and 45, with demonstrated leadership skills.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 12, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will have the consumer price index for February out at 7:30 a.m., followed by a Treasury report on the U.S. budget for February at 1 p.m. Brazil's crop agency, Conab, will also release its latest production estimates for Brazil Tuesday morning. Weather A weak disturbance will move through the middle of the country on Tuesday and some isolated showers and thunderstorms should pop up in and around Missouri. Otherwise, it will be a quiet day for those east of the Rockies. A system will be moving through the West, however, and will be an important storm system for the rest of the week
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 11, 2024 |
House Ag Committee Offers Farm Labor Solution The House Agriculture Committee laid out a roadmap to relieve labor shortages that have seriously impacted America’s farmers and ranchers. The Agriculture Labor Working Group released its final report on how to improve the H-2A guest worker program. It includes more than 20 recommendations to streamline the program and make labor more affordable for farmers. “We’re losing American farms rapidly, and there’s no question the broken workforce system is partly to blame,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. While the working group recommendations don’t address all the labor challenges facing farmers, they do offer needed solutions, such as streamlining the recruiting and hiring of H-2A employees. They also want to expand the H-2A program to meet year-round needs, recommend paying employees based on duties performed during the majority of the day, and reform wage calculation standards to provide stability in farmworker pay rates. The full committee report is available at agriculture.house.gov. *********************************************************************************** Pork Exports Start Quickly in 2024 U.S. pork exports raced to a great start in the new year. January USDA data shows exports during the month were led by another strong performance in Mexico, the number one market for American pork. However, pork also made gains in other Western Hemisphere and Asia-Pacific destinations. Pork exports reached 241,424 metric tons in January, six percent higher than a year ago. Export value rose six percent to $682.1 million. “Mexico’s demand for U.S. pork is so spectacular that it can overshadow some of the other great success stories,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom. U.S. beef exports were slightly behind last year’s volume, but export value trended significantly higher. Beef exports totaled 99,764 metric tons, one percent lower than last year. Beef export value rose nine percent to $763.8 million. January exports of U.S. lamb totaled 303 metric tons, up 28 percent from a year ago. ********************************************************************************** March WASDE Shows Few Major Changes The March World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates Report looked very similar to February’s numbers This month’s 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook is unchanged relative to last month. The season-average corn price received by producers is lowered to $4.75 a bushel based on observed prices to date. The outlook for U.S. soybean supply and use for 2023-2024 is also unchanged this month. Higher soybean meal exports are mostly offset by lower domestic use. The season-average soybean price and soybean meal price forecasts are also unchanged from last month. The outlook for 2023-2024 U.S. wheat this month calls for unchanged supplies and domestic use, lower exports, and higher ending stocks. Exports were reduced by 15 million bushels to 710 million. Ending stocks were raised by the same amount to 673 million bushels and are 18 percent higher than last year. The season-average wheat price dropped by five cents to $7.15 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Forecast Below Average A warm February led to increased snowmelt and runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City Iowa. February runoff was 1.8 million acre-feet, 161 percent of average with above-average runoff in every reach except Sioux City, which was near average. However, the updated 2024 calendar year runoff forecast for the basin continues to be below average. “Despite the increased runoff in February and improved soil moisture conditions, we expect 2024 runoff to remain below average,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Water Management Division. The much warmer-than-normal temps led to an early melt of the lower-than-average plains snow. Soil moisture conditions are near or above normal across most of the basin with below-normal soil moisture conditions in the eastern basin. The 2024 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 17-million-acre feet, 66 percent of average. Current system storage is 53.9 MAF. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Angus Foundation Scholarship Applications are open for the Angus Foundation’s Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship, which awards four $1,500 scholarships to outstanding young people in the beef industry. This scholarship is unique from others offered by the Foundation as it aims to support students specifically from the commercial sector of the industry. “We’re proud to offer this scholarship opportunity to students from commercial cattle backgrounds,” says Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “We recognize the importance of supporting young people using Angus genetics and want to help them succeed in our industry.” Students should be pursuing an undergraduate or vocational degree at an accredited higher education institution, and selection emphasis is placed on the applicant’s knowledge of the cattle industry and their perspective on the Angus breed. Young men and women are eligible to receive the scholarship if they’ve transferred a registered Angus animal in or out of their herd in the last three years. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Elects News Officers The National Pork Producers Council announced the induction of new officers and newly elected members to its board of directors. “We’re thrilled to welcome these accomplished individuals to NPPC’s board of directors,” says NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. “The diverse backgrounds and proven track records will provide valuable perspectives and strategic insights as the pork industry navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead.” Lori Stevermer of Easton, Minnesota, was elected NPPC President. She’s a co-owner of Trail’s End Farm and has a rich history of advocating for the pork industry at local, state, and national levels. She previously served on the executive board of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association. During her year as president-elect, she exemplified her leadership and unwavering commitment to the industry by testifying before Congress and representing the industry at international trade conferences. Duane Statler of Ohio was elected as president-elect. Rob Brenneman of Washington, Iowa, is the new vice president.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 11, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Don't forget we're now on daylight savings time. Traders will return from the weekend, looking at the latest weather forecasts and any news that might interest the market. USDA's weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by a report on the consumer price index on Tuesday morning. Weather A system is well off the East Coast while another is over the West, making for a generally quiet day for most of the country. It is breezy though on the East Coast and even the quiet conditions in the middle of the country will be a little breezy, as is typical for spring. That could heighten the wildfire risk in the Plains in areas that did not receive much precipitation from last week's storm system.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 8, 2024 |
Pork Forum Passes Enhanced Traceability Resolution U.S. pork producers approved a resolution to enhance the country’s live swine traceability system during the 2024 National Pork Industry Forum hosted by the National Pork Producers Council. “Traceability is a priority for the industry and has been for decades,” says Lori Stevermer, incoming NPPC president and Minnesota producer. “These standards will improve our ability to control the spread of a foreign animal disease and lessen the economic impact of an outbreak should one occur.” A producer-led task force brought together stakeholders in the supply chain to identify gaps in the traceability system. That process resulted in several recommendations, including all swine owners needing to register for a premises identification number. Other recommendations include high-risk swine being required to get tagged with an Animal Identification Number RFID tag. ”Industry delegates at Pork Forum took a proactive step to protect animal health and producers’ livelihoods,” says NPPC’s Immediate Past President Scott Hays. *********************************************************************************** Disaster Relief Fund Opens After Texas Wildfires The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association announced that cattle producers impacted by wildfires in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma can now apply for financial help. The emergency assistance is available through the group’s Disaster Relief Fund. The fund will distribute financial assistance to reduce the burdens incurred by cattle producers from wildfire damages that weren’t covered through insurance or other means of aid. The application window comes after hundreds of individuals and companies donated generous gifts in response to the second-largest wildfire event in the U.S. Donations continue to be accepted to benefit ranchers and landowners impacted by the natural disaster. Ranchers and landowners from the disaster-declared counties impacted by recent wildfires are eligible to apply in the open production period. Applicants are also not required to be a member of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to qualify for aid. For more information, go to tscra.org. *********************************************************************************** AM Radio Act Gets Enough Support to Pass the House The AM for Every Vehicle Act has hit the magic number of voting co-sponsors it will need to ensure passage through the House of Representatives. Sponsors of the House legislation, led by New Jersey Representative Josh Gottheimer, announced they had picked up the 218th voting supporter. The majority of votes is necessary because Kentucky Senator Rand Paul blocked a bipartisan-driven majority consent vote in November. He’s seeking to override the AM mandate and instead use the legislation to end electric vehicle subsidies under the American Vehicle Tax Credit. As the bill moves closer to the goal, the Department of Transportation is ready to implement the legislation. In a February interview, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he’s “ready to run with the Act the moment Congress gets it done.” The Act has picked up massive public support, including more than 400,000 emails, letters, and social media posts directed to Senators and Representatives. *********************************************************************************** More Positive Reaction to SEC Removing Scope 3 Requirements The Securities and Exchange Commission omitted the Scope 3 reporting requirement from its final climate disclosure rule. Scope 3 would have required public companies to report the greenhouse gas emissions from their supply chains and affected family farms and ranches. “Farmers are protecting the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with and continue advancing climate-smart agriculture,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “However, they can’t afford to hire compliance officers just to handle SEC reporting requirements.” International Dairy Foods Association President Michael Dykes says it would have placed a significant financial burden on millions of companies outside of SEC jurisdiction. “The proposed rule demonstrated a lack of engagement with the dairy value chain and a lack of analysis on the actual impact of the rule on privately held small entities,” he says. Some companies have said they will still require the emissions information from producers because investors, consumers, and other governments demand it. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canada’s Cattle Inventory Down Two Percent The USDA says all cattle and calves in the United States and Canada combined totaled 98.2 million head on January 1, 2024, down two percent from the 100 million head on January 1, 2023. The all cows and heifers that have calved inventory was down two percent from last year to 42 million head. All cattle and calves in the U.S. as of January 1, 2024, totaled 87.2 million head, down two percent from the 88.8 million head on January 1, 2023. The all cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 37.6 million head, two percent lower than last year. All cattle and calves in Canada on January 1 totaled 11.1 million head, two percent lower than last year. All sheep and lambs in the U.S. and Canada combined to total 5.86 million head on January 1, down two percent from the 5.98 million head on January 1, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Sparking Innovation at Trade Show The dairy checkoff will showcase dairy innovation and its overall nutrition package to the more than 70,000 people attending the country’s leading trade show in the natural, organic, and healthy products industry. A Dairy Management Inc. team will be onsite at the Natural Products Expo West event March 12-16 in Anaheim, California. The goal will be to spur dairy innovation among entrepreneurs, investors, and others seeking to grow their food and beverage businesses. It’s the checkoff’s first time at the event. “We want dairy to show up in a big way,” says Maria Buerk, executive vice president of innovation for DMI. “It’s typically the non-dairy alternative companies that show up to this event, but this is the biggest natural foods show and we are the biggest natural food besides vegetables.” Among the checkoff’s goals at Expo West, the DMI team wants to share a new checkoff-created tool designed to help entrepreneurs: InnovateWithDairy.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 8, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases employment statistics for February at 7:30 a.m. CST, including the unemployment rate. USDA's March WASDE report will be out at 11:00 a.m., followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. USDA will also release Livestock International Trade data at 11 a.m. Traders continue to monitor South American weather forecasts, but it remains to be seen if they consider USDA's South American crop estimates to be relevant. Weather A storm system that moved into the Plains on Thursday continues to slowly work its way eastward on Friday. It has already produced widespread showers and thunderstorms and will continue to do so on Friday, moving more through the Midwest and Gulf Coast states throughout the day. The storm is also bringing areas of snow to Nebraska and a risk of severe weather to the Gulf Coast
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 7, 2024 |
Vilsack Announces $2.3 Billion in Clean Power Projects Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced $2.3 billion in projects to expand clean power in rural communities. USDA is moving forward on clean energy investments in 23 states to reduce pollution and strengthen rural America’s power grid. The announcement includes the first five awards totaling $139 million under the Powering Affordable Clean Energy program. Secretary Vilsack also announced $2.2 billion in funding awarded to 39 projects to help ensure over two million people in rural areas have access to reliable electricity. Vilsack says, “Rural electric cooperatives are the backbone of America’s power delivery.” Vilsack made the announcement at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s PowerXchange annual meeting in San Antonio, Texas. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, “Building new markets for commodities is difficult work and we are glad USDA is listening to participants and continuing to be nimble in implementing this program.” More details are available at USDA.gov. *********************************************************************************** SEC Drops Scope 3 Greenhouse Gas Reporting The Securities and Exchange Commission released a limited greenhouse gas disclosure rule that omits the requirement for large publicly traded companies to release greenhouse gas emissions data from private companies in their supply chain. This type of data, known as Scope 3 reporting, could have increased burdens on family farmers and ranchers whose beef is processed or sold by publicly traded companies, according to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. NCBA President Mark Eisele says, “The final SEC rule that omits supply chain emissions reporting entirely is a testament to NCBA’s engagement with federal agencies and Congress to defend America’s cattle producers.” In 2022, the SEC proposed a rule to require publicly traded companies to release data on their direct (Scope 1), energy and electricity (Scope 2), and supply chain (Scope 3) greenhouse gas emissions. The Scope 3 requirement was concerning to the cattle industry, because numerous farmers and ranchers have their beef processed by publicly traded companies or sold by publicly traded restaurants and retailers. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Welcomes New Mexico Clean Transportation Fuel Standard Clean Fuels Alliance America applauds New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for signing legislation to create a clean transportation fuel standard for the state of New Mexico. The new law will help drive demand and open a new market for biodiesel and renewable diesel, while spurring economic opportunity and creating cleaner air for New Mexicans. The New Mexico Clean Transportation Fuel Standard tasks the Environmental Improvement Board with developing regulations to reduce transportation emissions by 20 percent from 2018 levels by 2030 and 30 percent by 2040. This technology and fuel-neutral program will generate new opportunities for the renewable fuel industry to help meet these carbon emissions reduction targets. Clean Fuels Director of State Regulatory Affairs Cory-Ann Wind says, “Cleaner fuels like biodiesel and renewable diesel will play a significant role in helping New Mexico reach its climate and air pollution goals.” New Mexico becomes the fourth state to pass a clean fuel standard, alongside California, Oregon and Washington. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Urges EPA to Reject CVR Energy Petition A coalition representing farmers and the ethanol industry this week urged the Environmental Protection Agency to reject a recent petition by CVR Energy to alter the Renewable Fuel Standard's credit trading program. CVR Energy's petition is a counterproductive proposal that would undermine the RFS and ultimately lead to higher prices for consumers, according to the group. CVR Energy has long sought to change the RFS, and in late December 2023 petitioned EPA to prohibit many businesses from possessing and trading Renewable Identification Numbers, or RINs. RINS are the credits that EPA uses to ensure obligated parties satisfy their obligations under the RFS. In a letter to the EPA, the coalition states, “Altering the structure of the RIN system would have disastrous impacts on renewable fuel producers, fuel marketers and retailers, obligated parties, and consumers in the form of higher prices at the pump.” The letter was signed by the Renewable Fuels Association, the National Association of Convenience Stores, National Farmers Union, and others. *********************************************************************************** Disease Mortality Gap Growing Between Rural and Urban Areas Over the last two decades, disease-related mortality rates have widened between rural and urban areas, especially for the prime working-age population, aged 25–54. Researchers with USDA’s Economic Research Service compared natural-cause mortality in rural and urban areas between two three-year periods, 1999–2001 and 2017–2019. They found the gap between rural and urban natural-cause mortality rates widened between the two time periods. Natural-cause mortality rates decreased across all age groups in urban areas. In rural areas, mortality rates decreased for most age groups, although not as much as for the same groups in urban areas, but increased for the prime working-age population. The rural group with the largest increase, 19 percent, in natural-cause mortality rates was 30- to 34-year-olds. Increased mortality rates for people who are of prime working age are an indicator of worsening population health, which could have negative implications for rural families, communities, employment, and the economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Nominees for the Hazelnut Marketing Board The Department of Agriculture is seeking nominees for the Hazelnut Marketing Board. The nominees will fill five grower member seats, five alternate grower member seats, four handler member seats, and four alternate handler member seats whose terms will begin July 1, 2024. One grower member and alternate member position are allocated to each of the five districts. To become a grower member or alternate grower member of the board, a petition must be completed by growers within the respective district. The petition must then be signed by ten other growers in that district and submitted to the Hazelnut Marketing Board by March 31, 2024. Eligible nominees must be engaged in a proprietary capacity in the production of hazelnuts for market. The appointed members will serve two-year terms. The marketing order authorizes research and promotion, quality regulations, and volume control. The Hazelnut Marketing Board administers the order locally and consists of ten members. For nomination information, contact the Hazelnut Marketing Board.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 7, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Fed Chairman Powell speaks to the Senate Thursday and the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system moving out of the Rockies will continue to build scattered showers and thunderstorms across much of the middle of the country on Thursday. Thunderstorms could be strong to severe from central Texas into southern Kansas. The heavier rainfall, though patchy, is needed in the region. A small batch of heavier snow is forecast for northeast Colorado and southwestern Nebraska.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 6, 2024 |
Modest Improvement in Farmer Sentiment, Financial Concerns Loom The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose modestly in February posting a reading of 111, five points higher than a month earlier. The modest rise in the barometer was attributable to producers expressing somewhat more optimism about the future as the Future Expectations Index rose seven points to a reading of 115. The Current Conditions Index was unchanged at 103 compared to a month earlier. Meanwhile, February’s Farm Financial Performance Index reading of 85 was one point lower than in January and 13 points below its most recent peak in December. Weak crop prices continue to weigh on financial expectations as mid-February Eastern Corn Belt cash prices for corn and soybeans were percent and eight percent lower, respectively, than two months earlier when the December survey was conducted. When asked about their biggest concerns for their farm operation in the upcoming year, producers in this month’s survey continued to point to high input costs and lower crop and livestock prices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Packers and Stockyards Act Final Rule on Competition The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the finalization of Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act. The final rule will be effective 60 days following publication in the Federal Register. The final rule, Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act, establishes clearer, more effective standards for prohibited practices relating to discrimination, retaliation, and deception in contracting. USDA says this will help producers and growers that have suffered from increasingly consolidated markets over the last 30 years by enhancing market integrity and ensuring fair access to economic opportunities. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew responded, “Today’s announcement is the culmination of years of work from NFU and supporters of equitable livestock markets.” The final rule comes on the heels of a successful effort by NFU and allied organizations to keep a harmful policy rider out of the FY 2024 appropriations agreement. Such a rider would have thrown out existing rules, prevented future rulemakings and blocked USDA from making similar progress on the Packers and Stockyards Act, according to NFU. *********************************************************************************** Livestock Groups Respond to Packers and Stockyards Rule The National Cattlemen's Beef Association responded to USDA's final Packers and Stockyards rule released Tuesday. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While we still have concerns about the unintended consequences of the rule, we are pleased that USDA has addressed most of our significant concerns between the proposed and final rules." NCBA's concern with the regulation has always been based on the rule's unforeseen impacts on standard business practices. However, Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, argues the final rule does nothing to change competition. Potts says, “These changes are simply an attempt to assert even more federal authority to regulate the equities of industry business practices, clogging the federal courts with every contract dispute.” She claims that Congress never intended to give USDA such broad-ranging authority over meat industry contracts and practices, regardless of their effect on competition. The Meat Institute previously submitted comments to USDA outlining legal precedent and congressional intent regarding the rule. *********************************************************************************** Bayer to Enhance Performance and Regain Strategic Flexibility by 2026 In a speech this week, Bayer CEO Bill Aderson addressed the short-term future of the multi-sector global company. Anderson says, “We are a high-impact, mission-driven, life-science company with three strong businesses, but we have four challenges that urgently must be addressed.” He was referring to the Pharmaceuticals pipeline, U.S. litigation, the company's high debt levels and bureaucracy that blocks progress. The company will focus on these areas for the next few years and implement its new operating model, Dynamic Shared Ownership. Bayer says the effort will help its Crop Science division strengthen its position with ten blockbusters reaching the market over the next decade. Despite gains overseas, Bayer's agricultural business saw overall sales fall by 3.7 percent last year. The decline was led by significantly lower prices for glyphosate-based products, resulting in a 26.0 percent downturn in sales of Herbicides. The rest of the portfolio saw a positive price development overall, driven by innovative products and higher commodity prices. Regarding a potential break-up of the company, Anderson says, "Our answer is 'not now' – and this shouldn't be misunderstood as 'never.'" *********************************************************************************** USDA: Expiring Estate Tax Provisions Would Increase Taxes for Farm Estates The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act significantly changed Federal individual income and estate tax policies, though some were temporary. In 2018, the legislation increased the estate tax exemption amount from $5.49 million to $11.18 million. This increase is set to expire at the end of 2025. The exclusion amount will revert in 2026 to $6.98 million per deceased person. Researchers with USDA's Economic Research Service estimate the expiring increased exemption would be $13.95 million per person at the time of the expiration. Lowering the estate tax exemption level in 2026 is estimated to increase the percentage of farm operator estates taxed from 0.3 to 1.0. Large farms would experience the largest increase in the share of estates owing estate tax, increasing from 2.8 to 7.3 percent. Total Federal estate taxes for farm estates would be expected to more than double to $1.2 billion if the provision were allowed to expire. *********************************************************************************** World Food Prize Announces Top Agri-Food Pioneers Initiative Submissions are now open for the Top Agri-food Pioneers List, a new initiative by the World Food Prize Foundation. The list will feature 38 leading innovators from across the world working to transform food systems, in honor of the organization's 38th anniversary this year. The Top Agri-food Pioneers List will spotlight pioneers of any age, background or career focus working in fields related to food or agriculture. Those selected in the final list will comprise the first cohort of TAP, building a network of trailblazers to be expanded each year to facilitate co-learning and collaboration across food systems. They will also be featured at the 2024 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa. Any institution or individual may submit a name for consideration for the TAP List. Submissions will be accepted through March 8, 2024. More information and how submit names for consideration is available on the World Food Prize website, worldfoodprize.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 6, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CST. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book is set for release at 1 p.m. Traders continue to keep an eye on South American weather and may be a little cautious ahead of Friday's WASDE report. Weather A front and system continue to push through the East on Wednesday, bringing areas of scattered showers. Another system is moving through the West, with a portion of that system moving through the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies with some areas of snow. The system will move fully into the Plains Wednesday night and Thursday, producing more widespread showers and thunderstorms in needed areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 5, 2024 |
Iowa Calls on Biden for 2024 E15 Fix The Iowa delegation of federal lawmakers is asking the Biden administration to issue a waiver authorizing E-15 sales this summer. The letter underscores the geopolitical significance of immediate, uninterrupted access to E-15 and its importance for Iowa drivers and individuals along the ethanol supply chain. Led by Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, the letter states, "As we expressed to Administrator Regan last week, we remain concerned that delaying implementation until 2025 will have devastating effects." The delegation previously addressed the issue with Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan last week. In February 2024, the EPA approved a petition Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds filed in 2022 alongside seven other Midwestern states, permitting year-round, nationwide E-15 sales. However, EPA's recent authorization won't take effect until 2025. The letter continues, "We the undersigned urge you to once again issue an emergency waiver to allow for the summertime sale of E-15, extending the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver from June 1 through September 15." *********************************************************************************** NCBA Calls on Congress to Adopt FY24 ‘Minibus’ The National Cattlemen's Beef Association Monday called on lawmakers to pass the minibus appropriations package announced over the weekend by congressional leadership. The bill prevents a government shutdown and supports several key cattle industry priorities. NCBA President Mark Eisele says, "While this legislation is not perfect, it advances a number of priorities important to cattle producers, including critical investments in electronic animal ID tags for producers and strengthening oversight of lab-grown protein." The Department of Agriculture is crafting a rule requiring electronic ID tags instead of existing metal tags on certain classes of cattle moving interstate. This change is designed to facilitate faster traceability in case of a foreign animal disease outbreak in the United States. If this rule is finalized, NCBA will support USDA in covering the entire cost of electronic ID tags for impacted producers. Additionally, NCBA supports greater oversight of emerging lab-grown technology. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announced Bobwhite Pilot Project, General CRP Signup The Department of Agriculture over the weekend announced the launch of a new conservation initiative – Working Lands for Wildlife's Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project, as well as the signup dates for USDA's General Enrollment signup in the Conservation Reserve Program, which opens March 4. Both conservation opportunities give producers tools to conserve wildlife habitat while achieving other conservation benefits, including sequestering carbon and improving water quality and soil health. The Working Lands for Wildlife Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project is a new effort supporting voluntary conservation of private working lands to benefit northern Bobwhite quail and East-Central grasslands conservation. This is for producers to help the bobwhite and other game and non-game species by managing their working lands for early successional habitat while meeting their lands natural resource and production goals. Producers and landowners interested in either opportunity should contact the FSA and NRCS at their local Service Center. Those interested in the Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project should contact NRCS to sign up now. *********************************************************************************** Assessment Shows Value of Soybean Oil as Low-Carbon Feedstock for Clean Fuels A recent Life Cycle Assessment conducted by Sustainable Solutions Corporation reveals a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of U.S. Soy. Created for the United Soybean Board and the National Oilseed Processors Association, the assessment highlights a notable 22 percent decrease in the carbon footprint associated with U.S. production of crude soy oil, which is a key feedstock for U.S. biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel producers. Soybean production and oil processing constitute more than 40 percent of the carbon intensity score for soy biodiesel. The improvements are expected to translate into reductions across the clean fuels industry. Clean Fuels Alliance America assisted USB and NOPA in ensuring the data collected for processors in the report aligns with data specifications for GREET, so it could be easily integrated into GREET model updates. Veronica Bradley, Environmental Scientist at Clean Fuels Alliance America, adds, “We look forward to working with Argonne National Laboratory through the data quality assessment process to update the GREET model to reflect the latest improvements in the industry.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Issues Analysis of School Breakfast Program A new analysis from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the USDA School Breakfast Program has served about 63 billion meals since it was established in 1975. Any student in a participating school can get free or reduced-price breakfast through the program, depending on their family income as it relates to the Federal Poverty line. The number of breakfasts served increased each year from 1982 through fiscal year 2016, before plateauing at about 2.4 billion meals from 2017 through 2019. On average, 85 percent of breakfasts were served for free or at a reduced price each year during this period. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 interrupted school operations, including the provision of meals, and the number of breakfasts served through the program dropped to about 1.8 billion breakfasts in 2020. The decrease reflected the use of USDA pandemic waivers, which allowed schools to serve meals through the Summer Food Service Program. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices See Double-Digit Increase After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline climbed ten cents from a week ago, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 22 cents from a month ago but 3.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 2.7 cents last week and stands at $4.03 per gallon—33 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says the trend is "hardly surprising for this time of year, and will likely continue as the entire nation has now made the first step toward summer gasoline.” After a weekend that saw Saudi Arabia announce an extension of their one million barrel per day production cut, oil prices were seeing slight losses, but remained near the highest level since November. The most common U.S. gas price encountered by motorists stood at $3.29 per gallon, with the most common diesel price at $3.99 per gallon.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 5, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. factory orders for January will be out at 9:00 a.m. CST, the only significant report of the day. Traders remain interested in the latest weather forecasts, the potential for more western wildfires and have an eye on Friday's WASDE report. Weather A cold front is sparking scattered showers and thunderstorms from eastern Texas to Michigan Tuesday morning. That front will continue to press eastward through the Midwest and Deep South throughout the day, bringing some needed precipitation to drier soils in some of these areas. Temperatures behind the front are cooler than out ahead of it, but are still mostly warm for early March outside of the Northwest and Canadian Prairies.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 4, 2024 |
Administration Misses GREET Deadline Biden administration officials announced they will miss a self-imposed deadline of March 1 to complete modifications to the GREET model for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The model is critically important for determining eligibility for the Inflation Reduction Act’s “40-B” SAF tax credit. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says while they were pleased to hear progress is being made on the modified GREET model, they are disappointed by this additional delay. “RFA is calling on the interagency Working Group to complete this process as quickly as possible while maintaining scientific integrity and honoring the commitment to incorporate a broad range of carbon reduction strategies,” he says. “To meet the Biden administration’s SAF goals, the marketplace needs certainty and clarity.” He also says investment and innovation in SAF technologies will remain frozen until the model gets finalized and additional guidance is issued. “It’s an enormous decarbonization opportunity,” he adds. ********************************************************************************** Number of U.S. Farms Falls Below Two Million The USDA says the number of U.S. farms has fallen under two million for the first time since before the Civil War. The numbers come from the 2022 Census of Agriculture. In 2022, there were 1,900,487 farms in the country, a seven percent decline from the level in the 2017 Census. A farm is defined as an establishment that produced or sold or would have sold in normal conditions, at least $1,000 in agricultural production in a year. The latest Census also reported that the total U.S. land in farms declined 2.2 percent to 880 million acres in 2022. This decline, when combined with the higher proportional decline in the number of farms, meant that the average farm size increased by five percent to 463 acres per farm. The Census of Agriculture, conducted every five years by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, includes producer responses to questions about their farming operations. *********************************************************************************** Corn Congress Wants Expanded Access to Foreign Markets Saying U.S. farmers depend on the strong demand that comes with expanded market access, the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress passed a consensus statement on trade. The statement encourages federal officials to pursue trade opportunities and invest in foreign market development to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in corn production and trade. “Building demand for U.S. corn is a top priority for NCGA and its state affiliates,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “International markets are crucial to the overall demand for U.S. corn, and actions restricting access to foreign markets will hurt both U.S. farmers and the broader U.S. economy.” The consensus statement says, “Whereas market access is critical for U.S. farmers to be successful and support the nation’s economy, we support improved market access, including the reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers, so U.S. corn growers have many opportunities to increase demand from foreign trading partners.” *********************************************************************************** Export Sales Rise USDA data shows grain and bean sales to overseas buyers rose week-to-week. Export sales of corn in the week ending on February 22 were reported at 1.08 million metric tons, up 32 percent from the previous week but down five percent from the prior four-week average. The agency says Mexico was the big buyer at 423,700 tons. Exports for the week came in at 1.22 million tons, up 19 percent week-to-week. Wheat sales jumped 40 percent week-to-week and two percent above the average to 327,300 metric tons. Japan took in 88,700 tons. Wheat exports for the week came in at 538,700 tons, up 44 percent from the prior week. Soybean sales totaled 159,700 metric tons, up from a marketing year low of 55,900 tons during the previous week. That’s still down 30 percent from the prior four-week average. China bought 154,800 tons. Exports dropped eight percent to 1.1 million tons. *********************************************************************************** Good News for U.S. Sugar Exports U.S. sugar exports for fiscal year 2024 are forecast to be the largest they’ve been in six years, rising to an estimated 160,000 short tons raw value (STRV) in the February WASDE report. About 88 percent of that, or 140,800 short tons of that total volume, is expected to go to Mexico, where sugar exports had fallen to a 15-year low. The Economic Research Service says this forecast will put U.S. sugar exports to Mexico on par with those from 2008-2013 when the North American Free Trade Agreement was active. Under NAFTA, Mexico could import U.S. sugar without tariffs or quotas, and U.S. exports averaged 167,000 STRV. After falling below 50,000 STRV on average, the U.S. increased its sugar exports to Mexico in the last two years as U.S. domestic beet and cane sugar production rose and Mexico experienced back-to-back years of lower production related to drought and reduced fertilizer use. *********************************************************************************** ASPCA Unhappy with Vilsack’s Comments on Prop 12 The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was unhappy with remarks by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on California’s Prop 12. ASPCA says Vilsack misrepresented the impacts of California’s Proposition 12 during a Senate Ag Committee hearing. “It’s alarming to see Secretary Vilsack double down on his inaccurate comments about Proposition 12, furthering industrial animal agriculture’s false narrative about the impact of basic laws that spare animals from cruel confinement in cages and crates,” says Kara Shannon, director of farm animal welfare policy for the ASPCA. “Fifteen states have implemented bans on the extreme confinement of farm animals, representing the will of millions of voters.” The group also says Senator Cory Booker’s line of questioning during the hearing aptly pointed out this isn’t just an animal welfare issue. It’s also a democracy issue. “We strongly condemn the Secretary’s comments suggesting Congress attempt to undo these critical laws,” the ASPCA says.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 4, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Weather in South America will again be watched closely by traders. At 10 a.m. we will get Grain Inspections. Weather A cold front that moved into the middle of the country on Sunday will come alive with showers and thunderstorms across the Mississippi Valley on Monday. Temperatures behind the front are cooler, but still warm for early March outside of the Canadian Prairies. Breezy but not strong winds will keep firefighters battling wildfires in the southwestern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 1, 2024 |
NPPC Applauds Line Speed Expansion The National Pork Producers Council commended the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service for extending the New Swine Inspection System line speed trials through January 15, 2025. Processing facilities will enroll in a modified time-limited trial, which includes a study to evaluate the impact of increased line speeds on worker safety. “We appreciate USDA and FSIS for listening to the pork industry and taking another step toward making increased line speeds permanent,” says NPPC President Scott Hays. “These actions give pork producers more certainty in an uncertain time.” NPPC has advocated for increased line speeds since 2019, and in 2021, FSIS permitted increased line speeds at six pork packing plants while also gathering data to evaluate potential worker impacts. Industry economists say producers could have incurred an additional loss of almost $10 a head early this year without the increase in line speeds and the resulting decrease in processing capacity. *********************************************************************************** Catastrophic Losses Ahead After Texas Wildfires Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller announced his agency’s commitment to providing support to the state’s producers as they deal with the aftermath of devastating wildfires in the Texas Panhandle. The Smokehouse Creek Fire has burned through almost 1,700 square miles of land, making it the largest on record in Texas going back to 1988. Seven grain and seed operations have reported total losses. “The fires not only threaten lives and property but will also have a substantial impact on our agriculture industry,” Miller says. “Over 85 percent of the state’s cattle population is located on ranches in the Panhandle.” He also says there are millions of cattle in the region, with some towns made up of more cattle than people. As Governor Greg Abbott declares a disaster in 60 counties, the TDA’s State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund is calling for donations to assist Texas Panhandle farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** New Resource for Maximizing Cattle Profitability A new resource developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CattleFax helps producers maximize profitability from their culling decisions. The resource is called “Right Way, Right Time – A Guide to Cull Cattle Management” and is now available at ncba.org. With effective planning, cull cattle can be a significant source of revenue and should not be overlooked. Cull cattle are market cattle. The document addresses key problem areas, provides strategies for making timely culling decisions to prioritize animal welfare, and is designed to help producers capture more value through effective cull cattle management. “Cull animals can contribute significantly to the profitability of the ranch,” says Dr. Trey Patterson, president of the Padlock Ranch Company. “We spend extensive time and money adding replacement cattle to our herd, so it’s imperative that we capture good value for cull cattle to offset the other expenses.” For more information or to access the resource online, visit ncba.org/producers. *********************************************************************************** FFA Next Gen Conference in March The National FFA Organization developed the Next Gen Conference to give students from around the country an opportunity to explore a variety of career paths before high school graduation. Next Gen Conferences go in-depth in a different subset of the more than 350 careers in agriculture each year. This year’s Next Gen Conference is March 5-8 in Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas. The Next Gen Conference: Agricultural Communications will engage high school students in hands-on sessions, round tables, and tours to explore emerging trends, issues, and opportunities in the field of agricultural communications. During the conference, students will also develop a road map that will serve as a blueprint to guide them in taking their next steps after high school graduation. “This conference will help us cultivate future leaders in the communications industry through a week of experiential learning, relevant education, and networking,” says Ashli Weinrich, program specialist for the National FFA Organization. *********************************************************************************** Mentorship Program for Women in Food and Agriculture Alltech is proud to continue partnering with the “Women in Food & Agriculture Program.” Applications are open for new mentors of either gender and for female mentees from across the global food and agriculture sector. Now in its fourth year, the free-to-join program is dedicated to supporting women across the global food and agriculture sector by providing invaluable mentorship opportunities. It’s become a beacon of support for women seeking guidance, advice, and networking opportunities in their careers. Surveys suggest one of the biggest hurdles to success for women in the global agri-food industry is a lack of mentorship opportunities. WFA matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include mentor gender, areas of expertise, language, and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. To date, the program has facilitated 562 pairings, connecting mentees with experienced mentors. For more information go to wfa-initiative.com. *********************************************************************************** U.S., Mozambique Sign MOU on Ethanol The U.S. Grains Council convened a high-level meeting between government officials, industry professionals, and other stakeholders to discuss Mozambique’s clean energy goals in cooking and transportation. Deputy USDA Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small looked on as the USGC, Pivot Clean Energy, and the Mozambique Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy signed a memorandum of understanding. It establishes a cooperative partnership to exchange technical expertise and best practices related to the biofuels industry and clean energy policy development. Small says using biofuels for cooking is one of the many examples of how agriculture provides real solutions to everyday challenges. “Today’s conversation helps families in Mozambique use a healthier cooking fuel, which in turn provides cleaner air for everyone,” she says. “In pursuing ethanol burning stoves for household cooking that produce no soot or smoke, users can limit air-borne health risks and air pollution.” Biofuel blending reforms lessen Mozambique’s reliance on fuel imports.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 1, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Treasury Department is expected to make an announcement Friday, regarding specifications for Sustainable Aviation Fuels that may have a big impact on the future demand for corn and soybeans. Manufacturing indices will be reported overnight from around the world and be joined by ISM's index for the U.S. at 9 a.m. CST. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment will be out at 9 a.m. Weather While a few snow showers will move across the Eastern Midwest Friday morning, the Southeast and Tennessee Valley will continue to see scattered rain showers throughout the day. Rain showers will eventually work into the Ohio Valley by late Friday afternoon into the evening.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 29, 2024 |
Stabenow: No New Farm Bill Without SNAP, Climate Funds For the first time, Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow says she’ll push a new farm bill further into the future rather than strike a deal with Republicans on SNAP and climate spending changes. The Fence Post says she won’t agree to limit any updates to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or cut any climate-smart conservation money in the Inflation Reduction Act. “I’m not going to do it,” she says. “If that means we continue the policies of the 2018 Farm Bill, which were pretty good if I do say so myself, then that’s okay.” Stabenow sat next to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack during an event at the White House this week, and he said, “You’re tough. That’s great.” Stabenow has said privately for months that her legacy depends on protecting climate funding as well as not cutting anti-hunger programs. The current farm bill authorization expires at the end of September. *********************************************************************************** Bill Further Expands Future Biofuel Usage Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan “Renewable Fuels for Ocean-Going Vessels Act.” It will help open new markets for U.S. farmers by encouraging the use of biofuels using homegrown farm products for ships and ocean-going vessels. It will specifically expand markets for American-made biofuels by ensuring that renewable fuels used in ocean-going vessels would be eligible for a renewable fuel credit available for other biofuels. The legislation preserves Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard program when the fuel is used in oceangoing vessels. The RFS currently excludes “fuels used in ocean-going vessels” from the definition of transportation fuels and from refiners’ and blenders’ obligations. Refiners and blenders are required to retire RINs from any biodiesel and renewable diesel used in vessels with Class 3 engines operating in international waters, including the Great Lakes. The bill is widely supported by multiple agricultural groups. *********************************************************************************** Senators Take Action Against Paraguayan Beef Imports Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Jon Tester (D-MT) filed a resolution against the Biden administration’s decision to lift a long-standing ban on beef imports from Paraguay. A Congressional Review Act resolution is an oversight tool Congress may use to overturn final rules with a simple majority vote. “Our farmers and ranchers work tirelessly to produce the safest, highest quality, and most affordable beef in the world,” Rounds says. “On the other hand, Paraguay has historically struggled to contain outbreaks of foot and mouth disease.” Tester and Rounds say American consumers should be able to confidently feed their families beef that they know has met the rigorous standards required in the United States. “I’m pleased to be filing this CRA with Senator Tester to overturn this rule that harms American producers and consumers,” Rounds adds. Tester says, “Cutting corners to resume imports from Paraguay is bad news for producers and consumers.” *********************************************************************************** Purdue: No Increase in Dust Explosions in 2023 A new report from Purdue University says that nationwide grain dust explosions totaled nine incidents in the United States during 2023, resulting in 12 injuries but no fatalities. “Dust explosions are one of the most serious hazards that occur in the grain industry,” says study author Kingsly Ambrose of Purdue University. “The explosions can also lead to significant financial and personal losses due to downtime, repair, injuries, and fatalities.” Last year’s nine incidents were no increase from the nine incidents reported in 2022. The ten-year average of 8.4 explosions remains relatively unchanged. Ambrose says all the big explosions occurred in the Midwest, with most of them taking place in the corn handling or processing industry. The probable ignition sources were identified in two of the cases as fire, with another due to an equipment malfunction, and the others were caused by unknown sources. “Education is the key to prevention,” Ambrose adds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Webinar on Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will host a webinar on March 7 at noon, eastern time, for U.S. poultry growers. The webinar will allow the agency to share information regarding the “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule.” Attendees may submit questions in advance at the usda.gov website. Questions will also be taken during the webinar. USDA published the final rule in the Federal Register on November 28, 2023, and it became effective on February 12, 2024. The rule requires Live Poultry Dealers, which are typically large processing companies, to provide poultry growers with whom they contract to raise birds with key information about the terms of their agreements. It also requires additional disclosures by live poultry dealers engaged in the production of broilers who use poultry grower ranking systems to determine settlement payments for broiler growers. More information can be found on the AMS website at ams.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Farmland Sells for a Near-Record Amount Not one but two tracts of farmland in Sioux County, Iowa, sold for a near-record $29,600 per acre in a public auction this week. In November 2022, a sale of 73.19 acres in the same county sold for the current state record of $30,000 per acre. A spokesman for Zomer Company Realty and Auction confirmed the Ken and LaDonna Huisman farmland sale totaled 117.41 acres on February 27. The first tract of land was made up of 40 acres and featured half-mile-long rows. With a road and ditch on only one side of the field, 98.7 percent of the tract is tillable. Tract number two is 77.41 acres that are also bordered by one road and is 98.7 percent tillable with half-mile-long rows. Both tracts are subject to a signed easement with the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project. The buyer will receive the crop damage payments from Summit at closing.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 29, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the PCE inflation index, U.S. personal incomes and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. Weather A disturbance will provide isolated to scattered rain and snow showers to the Southern Plains today, which could help reduce the wildfire risk across the area. However, portions of Iowa, eastern Nebraska, and northern Kansas will see dry and breezy conditions today, promoting a higher risk for wildfires.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 28, 2024 |
Grassley, Colleagues, Urge Swift E15 Waiver for 2024 Senator Chuck Grassley led an Iowa delegation of lawmakers in a letter urging the Environmental Protection Agency to allow for summertime E15 sales in 2024. Last week, the EPA finalized a rule to approve year-round E15 sales, but delayed implementation until 2025. The rule allows states to use the same volatility limits for E15 and E10 and was in response to a petition by governors of eight midwestern states seeking the year-round availability of E15. The petition includes Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Grassley and the Iowa delegation contend the delay "will have devastating effects on biofuels producers, farmers, and families across the country.” The letter states, “We request, once again, that the EPA immediately implement its rule to ensure E15 is available year-round no later than March 31, 2024." Representatives Zack Nunn, Randy Feenstra, Ashley Hinton, and Marionette Miller-Meeks signed the letter, along with Senators Grassley and Joni Ernst. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Progress on Newly Authorized Climate Programs The Department of Agriculture Tuesday published the Intent to Establish the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program report. Authorized under the Growing Climate Solutions Act, the report explains how the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program will facilitate farmer, rancher, and private forest landowner participation in voluntary carbon markets. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “This new program will provide resources for producers and landowners, helping them pursue opportunities to generate revenue while benefiting the environment.” The report justifies the Secretary's intent to establish the program following an earlier publication, which found that voluntary carbon markets offer a promising tool to achieve greenhouse gas reductions from the agriculture and forest sectors and support producer livelihoods. USDA will work towards formal establishment of the program in 2024. As a first step, USDA will soon solicit information on protocols to be evaluated for inclusion in the list to be published as part of the program. *********************************************************************************** Ag Accounted for 10% of 2021 U.S. GHG Emissions Farming activities in the United States accounted for 10.6 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. New data released this week shows that from 2020 to 2021, agricultural greenhouse gas emissions remained nearly constant but decreased from 11.1 percent to 10.6 percent as a share of total U.S. emissions because of changes in other industries. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that in 2021, agriculture emitted 312.6 million metric tons as nitrous oxide, 278.4 million metric tons as methane, 44.7 million metric tons as on-farm carbon dioxide, and 35.7 million metric tons emitted indirectly through the electricity that the agricultural sector uses. Of the common economic sectors in the United States, industry accounted for the largest portion of total greenhouse gas emissions at 30.1 percent, followed by transportation, commercial, residential and agriculture. Total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021 were 2.3 percent lower than in 1990. *********************************************************************************** RMA Expands Insurance Option for Nursery Growers USDA Risk Management Agency is expanding crop insurance tailored for nursery producers to all counties in all states. Nursery Value Select is a pilot program that enables nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their risk management needs. Its expansion is part of USDA’s Risk Management Agency efforts to provide insurance options for a broader group of producers, including specialty crop producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, "This insurance option meets a critical need of American nursery producers." Nursery Value Select provides similar but improved coverage to the longstanding Nursery Field Grown and Container program. The program also covers field-grown and containerized nursery plants and offers coverage levels between catastrophic and 75 percent. Before the expansion, the program was only available in select counties in nine states. Beginning with the 2025 crop year, Nursery Value Select will be available in all counties in all states. *********************************************************************************** Gooden Confirmed as Rural Development Undersecretary The Senate Tuesday confirmed Dr. Basil Gooden as U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Rural Development. Dr. Gooden has served as Director of State Operations for Rural Development since July 2021, in which role he has led and supported USDA's team of 47 Rural Development State Directors who extend USDA's state-level leadership and help ensure the department's investments reach all rural communities. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Dr. Gooden is a true asset at the People's Department, and I look forward to continuing our work advancing and improving policies that benefit agriculture and rural America." House Agriculture Ranking Member David Scott added, "Dr. Gooden's extensive experience touches on many issues important to rural communities, including affordable housing, wealth development in distressed communities, and improving infrastructure." Gooden will fill the undersecretary position left vacant by Xochitl Torres Small, who was confirmed in July 2023 as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Indigo Ag Announces Record Carbon Crop Indigo Ag this week announced the successful completion of its third carbon crop. With more than 163,000 carbon credits produced, Indigo is the only company to complete three carbon harvests at scale, and the program continues to show growth with year-over-year increases in the number of farmers paid, fields filed, and credits produced. Since its inception in 2019, farmers participating in Indigo Ag's carbon program have sequestered or abated the equivalent of nearly 300,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide. Indigo Ag CEO Dean Banks says, "Our record breaking third carbon crop reinforces that farmers can earn money and have a real and measurable impact leveraging agricultural soil as one of the world's largest carbon sinks.” Indigo Ag's carbon credits are verified and issued by the Climate Action Reserve. To date, farmers in Indigo Ag's sustainability programs have earned more than $12 million. Farmers are scheduled to be paid for the third carbon crop in March 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 28, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The first revision of Q4 U.S. GDP is set for 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. The Energy Department's weekly inventory report follows at 9:30 a.m. and includes weekly ethanol production. Traders remain interested in South American weather and any surprise that may pop up. Weather A strong cold front continues its trek across the U.S. on Wednesday, moving through the East Coast by Wednesday evening. Areas of showers and thunderstorms follow the front, and some snow will mix in as well. Temperatures are dropping rapidly behind the front and have become very cold across the Plains and Upper Midwest after the frontal passage Tuesday. Strong winds continue to follow the front as well. Even though it is cold behind the front, it will not last long, rising in the Northern Plains Wednesday afternoon and elsewhere Thursday and Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 27, 2024 |
Funding Announced for Renewable Tech in Ag The Department of Agriculture and the Energy Department Monday launched a new initiative to help farmers cut costs and increase income using underutilized renewable technologies. Through the Rural and Agricultural Income & Savings from Renewable Energy initiative, USDA is setting an initial goal of helping 400 individual farmers deploy smaller-scale wind projects using USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program. This goal is only possible because of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act which provided more than $144 million in grant funding for underutilized technologies through the REAP program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “These investments will create long-lasting economic benefits for their families, businesses and communities for years to come.” Additionally, the Energy Department announced $4 million in related funding, including $2.5 million to support distributed wind technologies for the agricultural sector, and $1.5 million to support outreach and the identification and development of new business models for farmers to save money and earn income deploying these technologies. *********************************************************************************** Northey Honored by Agribusiness Association of Iowa The Agribusiness Association of Iowa Foundation Monday announced that its building will be named after Bill Northey and simply called “The Northey Building.” Foundation Board Chair Mark White says, “Just as another giant in Iowa agriculture, Henry Wallace, has a state ag building named after him, the Foundation board of directors felt that naming our building after Bill will ensure that he will never be forgotten.” Northey served as CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa at the time of his death earlier this month. Northey previously served as the nation's first Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation at USDA, and as Secretary of Agriculture for Iowa. Further, A "Northey Memorial Fund" has been established at the Agribusiness Association of Iowa Foundation. The Agribusiness Association of Iowa Foundation is a nonprofit organization that promotes research projects, member education, stewardship and scholarships that benefit Agribusiness Association of Iowa members and their families. *********************************************************************************** Nature Connects Us Campaign Launches The National Forest Foundation and USDA’s Forest Service Monday announced the launch of “Nature Connects Us.” The outreach campaign sparks awakening and strengthening of all peoples’ connection to national forests and grasslands. The campaign is grounded in honoring ancestral tribal homelands through respectful and mindful visitor experiences and was born out of the need to grow and understand the respect that public lands require on a deeper level. NFF CEO Mary Mitsos says, “We aim to welcome all peoples to enjoy the outdoors in a manner that amplifies who they are as an individual and members of a larger community.” The outreach campaign is the largest and most comprehensive outreach campaign that the Forest Service has collaborated on with the NFF throughout their partnership over the past several decades. The National Forest Foundation is the congressionally-chartered nonprofit working to improve and restore the health of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. *********************************************************************************** United States Cattle on Feed Up Slightly USDA ended last week with the monthly Cattle on Feed Report showing slightly higher inventories on February 1. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.8 million. The inventory was slightly above 2023, with placements in feedlots at 1.79 million head, seven percent below 2023, and net placements at 1.71 million head. Marketings of fed cattle during January totaled 1.84 million head, slightly below 2023. Cattle on Feed and Annual Size Group Estimates Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head represented 82.7 percent of all cattle and calves on feed in the United States on January 1, 2024. This is comparable to the 82.6 percent on January 1, 2023. Marketings of fed cattle for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head during 2023 represented 87.3 percent, up slightly from 87.2 percent during 2022. *********************************************************************************** Nearly 20% of Shoppers Purchase Groceries Online Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows that nearly 20 percent of shoppers purchased groceries online in 2022, the latest dataset available. However, the frequency of online shopping varied. At the time of the survey, among those who bought groceries online in the past month in 2022, 30.2 percent did so once, 25.1 percent made two online grocery purchases, and 44.7 percent purchased groceries online three or more times. Time constraints were the main reason people bought groceries online, while the main reason for not shopping online for groceries was that people like being able to see and touch products in person, according to the survey. ERS collected the data through the ERS-developed Eating and Health Module of the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey. In 2022, the Eating and Health Module captured for the first time nationally representative data concerning the prevalence and frequency of U.S. residents who report shopping for groceries online. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Price Increase Pauses The national average gas price declined last week for the first time in more than a month. The average gas price stands at $3.24 per gallon, down 1.9 cents from a week ago. The national average is up 13.3 cents from a month ago but 9.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. Meanwhile, the national average diesel price fell 2.6 cents last week and stands at $4.06 per gallon—33 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan cautions, "While the pause has certainly been nice, this is more like a rain delay than it is a 7th-inning stretch." De Haan says all eyes are on refiners as utilization remained seasonally weak, around 80 percent of capacity, meaning there’s less gasoline and diesel being produced. U.S. retail gasoline demand increased 2.2 percent for the week, as oil prices hovered around $80 per barrel.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 27, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders for January will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by a report on consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders continue to keep close watch over South American weather forecasts and have an interest in news from the Middle East and Red Sea. Weather A strong cold front is found in the Northern Plains early Tuesday with a band of heavy snow across North Dakota into northern Minnesota. That front will race through much of the Plains and Midwest through Tuesday with strong winds, potential severe storms in the eastern Midwest, areas of light snow, and a sharp drop in temperatures from the records seen on Monday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 26, 2024 |
More Reaction to EPA’s E15 Decision The Environmental Protection Agency granted the request from eight Midwestern states to sell year-round E15 beginning in 2025. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says it’s great news but notes, “Drivers will need a solution for this summer to minimize disruptions and make sure they have continued access to E15.” The National Corn Growers Association is also glad to hear about the decision because it provides more certainty. “However, since it doesn’t begin until the summer of 2025, we are concerned about the implications for growers and consumers this summer,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. The American Coalition for Ethanol says the decision is “better late than never” but also says the EPA had a legal responsibility to approve E15 in those states more than a year ago. Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says the EPA was correct in unleashing year-round E15 but added a “few unnecessary strings” in delaying it until 2025. ********************************************************************************** Senators Want a Strong Packers and Stockyards Act Montana Democratic Senator Jon Tester and Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley wrote a letter asking colleagues to help assure the strong enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act. They’re asking other senators to oppose any policy rider in the 2024 Ag Appropriations Bill that would prevent the USDA from enforcing the Act to hold multi-national food manufacturers accountable. “Four companies control over 80 percent of domestic beef processing, 60 percent of hog processing, and 50 percent of domestic poultry processing,” their letter says. “This level of concentration is bad for consumers and family farmers but good for the giant meat packers.” They point out that the companies have reported record profits in the last few years while farmers and ranchers struggle to make ends meet and consumers are paying too much for proteins at the grocery store. “Congress must reject any rider blocking USDA from implementing bipartisan reforms,” the letter says. *********************************************************************************** Brazil, Argentina Crop Production Estimates Drop Soybean production estimates for Argentina and Brazil, along with corn production estimates for Argentina, were lowered by agribusiness consultancy Agroconsult and the Rosario Grain Exchange. Brazil’s 2023-2024 soybean crop estimate was cut to 152.2 million metric tons from 153.8 million. Agroconsult says adverse weather in key production states is a big reason for the drop. Argentina’s Rosario Grains Exchange cut its estimates for the country’s 2023-2024 soybean and corn harvests to 49.5 million and 57 million metric tons. The cut comes after a heat wave in late January and early February. The exchange has previously calculated the soybean harvest at 52 million tons and the corn harvest at 59 million tons. Agroconsult says about 40 percent of the crops were affected by high temperatures and low rainfall in Mato Grosso, Brazil’s biggest farm state. Despite higher-than-usual temperatures that started in mid-January, Argentina’s corn harvest will hit a record level this season. *********************************************************************************** Report Gives a Snapshot of 2023’s U.S. Lamb Market Last year saw the smallest lamb crop on record with just 3.03 million head, but there were also some bright spots related to lamb imports and pricing. That’s according to the 2023 Sheep Industry Review, a checkoff-funded report commissioned by the American Lamb Board and compiled by the American Sheep Industry Association. “Last year saw a decline in inventory at all levels,” says ALB chair Jeff Ebert. “However, producers did feel a bit of relief with a significant decrease in imported lamb and mutton, improved drought conditions in most areas, a slight decline in production costs, and relatively high slaughter and retail prices.” Breeding sheep declined by two percent to 3.67 million head, market lambs were down 24,000 head to 1.28 million head, and the total lamb crop was down to 3.03 million head, the smallest on record. Feedlot supplies were also down last year because of smaller lamb crops. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Ask for Stability in Milk Prices The American Farm Bureau and National Farmers Union sent a letter to USDA asking for stability in Class 1 milk prices. The letter asks Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to issue an interim final decision to return the Class 1 mover formula to the “higher-of” the Class 3 or Class 4 calculations as it was before the 2018 farm bill. The letter states,” Dairy farmers remain stuck with the current pricing regulations until USDA publishes a final rule. Current market dynamics underscore the need for an expedited return to the ‘higher-of’ Class 1 mover.” The current Class 1 mover was a well-intentioned but misguided policy that has reduced dairy farmer income. Emergency implementation of the higher-of Class 1 mover formula will staunch persistent losses associated with a policy that has left dairy farmers struggling to make ends meet. The current formula was based on a quick decision and not demonstrated need. *********************************************************************************** USDA Equity Commission Issues Final Report The USDA held its inaugural National Equity Summit to celebrate the work of USDA’s Equity Commission and released the report “A New Path Forward.” The report provides an overview of the implementation of the recommendations contained in the Equity Commission’s Interim Report. “USDA has worked to take significant and meaningful actions to address issues still being felt as a result of a system that hasn’t been equitable for generations and ensures that the promise of America can be achieved for every community across the country,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small says it’s never easy to look at mistakes head-on and recognize where the agency has missed the mark. Since its launch in February 2022, the Equity Commission served as a key pillar of the Department’s efforts to advance equity. The Commission’s report includes 66 recommendations to support institutional change at USDA within multiple areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 26, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to pay close attention to South American weather forecasts and any news from around the world, especially the Middle East. New home sales for January will be out at 9 a.m. CST, followed by USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CST. Weather Temperatures are rising well above normal and could break some records in spots here on Monday east of the Rockies. But a storm in the Canadian Prairies will push a cold front through the Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains that will sweep across the country the next couple of days. That will produce some areas of showers, including snow in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, strong winds, potential for severe weather, and a sharp drop in temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 23, 2024 |
EPA Makes Decision on Summertime E15 The Environmental Protection Agency approved the long-delayed petitions from eight Midwest governors to allow summertime sales of E15 in these states. Geoff Cooper, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, says it’s a double-edged sword. “The EPA finally allows retailers in these eight states to sell E15 year-round,” he says. “But it also delays the rule’s implementation until 2025.” That delay creates considerable uncertainty and confusion about the availability of lower-cost, lower-carbon E15 this coming summer. “It’s helpful to have certainty about 2025, but what happens this summer?” Cooper asked. ”The administration missed its statutory deadline to finalize the governors’ petition by more than 500 days, and now it claims there isn’t enough time to implement the rule in time for summer 2024.” He doesn’t understand why ethanol producers, fuel retailers, consumers, and farmers should be penalized for EPA’s foot-dragging. “We want uninterrupted access this year,” he adds. ********************************************************************************** Food Continues to Get More Expensive Eating continues to cost Americans more money. That’s even as overall inflation has backed off from the high pace of 2022 and 2023. Restaurant prices were up 5.1 percent last month compared to January 2023. U.S. Labor Department data shows that grocery store costs increased 1.2 percent during the same period. Relief isn’t on the immediate horizon as restaurant and food company executives continue wrestling with higher labor costs and more expensive ingredients like cocoa. “If you look historically at the periods following inflation, there’s nothing that says food prices will go back down,” says Steve Cahillane of snack giant Kellanova. “They tend to be sticky.” In 1991, government data shows consumers had spent over 11 percent of their disposable personal income on food. At the time, households were still dealing with steep food price increases following an inflationary period during the 1970s. Thirty years later, food spending is there again. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Soybean Exports Double U.S. Shipments Brazil’s 2023 soybean exports reached a record 3.74 billion bushels, 29 percent higher than the previous year as Brazilian production hit record levels. Meanwhile, U.S. shipments dropped 14 percent to 1.78 billion bushels in the same period. The two countries are major competitors and together ship over 80 percent of global soybean exports. Historically, the U.S. was the world’s largest soybean exporter. Brazil surpassed the U.S. in soybean shipments for the first time in 2013. The University of Illinois FarmDoc website says over the last 20 years, Brazil’s soybean exports jumped 431 percent, with the jump occurring mainly in the most recent decade. Brazil exports up to 60 percent of its domestic soybean production. During the past two decades, America’s soybean exports have increased 94 percent. U.S. soybean exports have plateaued since 2016, with an average annual volume of 1.993 billion bushels. The U.S. exports 49 percent of its soybeans. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Officers Head Overseas The 2023-2024 National FFA Officer Team recently took a trip overseas to Japan, where they participated in an international program in conjunction with the Future Farmers of Japan. The trip was made to strengthen a partnership that began in 1950. This is the first time the national officer team has made the trip since COVID began in 2020. The officers spent six days in Japan and took part in several activities, including a briefing with Senior Agriculture Attaché Mark Wallace at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. They also met with FFJ students at high schools in Tokyo and Osaka (oh-SAH-ka). “It was so impactful to see how different, yet how similar, the world operates,” says National FFA Eastern Vice President Morgan Anderson of Ohio. “Culturally, the world is diverse, but one common factor that unites all of us is agriculture.” She added that we’re all working to feed the world. *********************************************************************************** Waste in EPA Environmental Justice Grant Spending Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley says millions of taxpayer dollars funneled through the Environmental Protection Agency’s grant programs weren’t used correctly. While the funds were used to cover recipient organizations’ overhead costs and operating expenses, they didn’t produce tangible results demonstrating the efficacy of the environmental justice program. Records and receipt tracking expenditures released this week show a vast portion of the $4.3 million allocated to the environmental justice program was spent by grant recipients on internal and superfluous purposes, including funding employees’ salaries, covering benefits, and even paying for vacation expenses. “Climate change poses real challenges, but the EPA’s efforts to address climate issues through its 2021 environmental justice program don’t pass the smell test,” says Grassley. “Having seen all this laid bare, it’s difficult to imagine how any taxpayer would want their hard-earned money invested in this program instead of putting those funds back in their own pockets.” *********************************************************************************** Grocery Groups Oppose Purchase Restrictions in SNAP The National Grocers Association and independent grocers across the U.S. sent a letter to Congress expressing opposition to an effort to limit purchases under the SNAP Program. The NGA says the Fiscal Year 2024 House Ag Appropriations Bill contains two provisions it believes would undermine SNAP. One is the creation of a pilot program to catalog and restrict SNAP purchases, and the collection of SNAP purchasing data with the aim of restricting SNAP purchases in the future. Almost 2,500 NGA members from across the country and in every Congressional district signed the letter. “The dietary needs of the SNAP population are diverse, and no one diet would be appropriate for all participants,” the letter says. The grocers also say the proposed provisions and NGA’s response come at a time of greater food insecurity for Americans. A recent study says 36 percent of U.S. families have recently skipped meals due to financial reasons.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 23, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Traders continue to watch South American weather reports for any hints of support in corn and soybean prices. USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST. Cattle on-feed and monthly cold storage will both be out at 2 p.m. Weather Showers from a warm system continue in the Southeast on Friday. A cold front will drop through the Great Lakes in association with a weak clipper as well. Some limited showers will develop over the eastern Midwest later Friday into Saturday. That may include some snow, but amounts are expected to be very light. Temperatures will briefly fall behind this front, but only for a day as they rise again Saturday and continue to be very warm going into next week across most of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 22, 2024 |
USDA: Rural Employment Returns to Pre-COVID Levels USDA’s Economic Research Service is highlighting new data that shows rural employment levels are back to pre-COVID levels. The COVID-19 pandemic affected employment in rural and urban areas differently. Before the pandemic, employment growth was higher, and unemployment rates were slightly lower in urban areas. However, the trends reversed during the pandemic. In the second quarter of 2020, urban employment fell to 88 percent of pre-pandemic employment levels, while rural employment fell to 90 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Unemployment during the pandemic reached a high of 13.3 percent in urban areas and 11.4 percent in rural areas, compared with pre-pandemic rates of 3.8 and 4.2 percent, respectively. Rural and urban employment grew quickly in the third and fourth quarters of 2020 as many sectors of the economy reopened. Rural employment recovered to pre-pandemic levels in the third quarter of 2023, more than one year after urban employment did. Rural unemployment rates in 2023 were at their lowest point since before 1990. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Announces Rural Infrastructure Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced a more than $772 million investment for rural infrastructure projects. USDA says the new projects will benefit more than one million people living in remote areas of the country by providing reliable high-speed internet access, clean, safe water and a range of support for rural communities. Vilsack commented, "The investments will help us build our economy from the middle out and bottom-up by bringing high-speed internet, clean water, modern infrastructure, and good-paying jobs to communities in rural areas." USDA is investing $51.7 million to expand access to high-speed internet for rural areas through the Reconnect Program and the Broadband Technical Assistance Program, and $42 million in grants through the ReConnect Program. The investments also fund infrastructure projects in underserved communities participating in the Rural Partners Network. And USDA is financing projects through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program to help build and improve rural wastewater systems. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Changes to Monitoring Child Nutrition Programs USDA's Food and Nutrition Service recently published a proposed rule that the agency says will help ensure the federal child nutrition programs are properly operated. The regulatory updates seek to strengthen and clarify the process for correcting major mismanagement problems, also called serious deficiencies, found in child nutrition programs. The proposed changes will ensure that procedures in Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program, also known as CACFP and SFSP, align with current requirements under law. The changes include providing operators a fair path to fully correct serious mismanagement problems, clarifying termination and disqualification criteria for SFSP operators, and addressing legal requirements for obtaining records of individuals who are disqualified from the program and sponsoring organizations that operate in multiple states. USDA is also proposing a standard definition of what it means for an operator to be in “good standing,” which currently does not exist. The public is invited to comment on the proposed changes by May 21 at regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy: California Proposal Leave Biofuels Behind Growth Energy this week submitted comments to the California Air Resources Board regarding the board's proposed changes to California's low-carbon fuel standard. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “While California has its sights set on the future, the state continues to overlook a significant challenge that it faces right now: decarbonizing the millions of internal combustion engine vehicles in the state that will continue to be on the road for decades. Growth Energy contends the proposal ignores plant-based fuel options, such as ethanol and biodiesel. One issue is the audit processes included in the proposal. Renewable Fuels Association Chief Economist Scott Richman says, “Imposing a third-party verification system for feedstock certification places an extreme audit burden on feedstock suppliers and biofuel producers without any clearly defined benefit.” Richman added that the provision does not define the general term "sustainability" and needs extensive stakeholder engagement and analysis before being considered for inclusion in any amendment to the LCFS program. *********************************************************************************** Senators: Livestock Consolidation a “Bad Deal” For Consumers, Ranchers Senators Chuck Grassley and Jon Tester encourage their Senate colleagues to oppose recent efforts that they say will weaken the Packers and Stockyards Act. The upcoming Fiscal year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations bill includes provisions Grassley and Tester say would "prevent USDA from enforcing the Packers and Stockyards Act to hold multi-national food manufacturers accountable." Grassley, an Iowa Republican, and Tester, a Montanna Democrat, contend, "Congress must reject the latest push by these special interests to attach a rider to the FY 2024 Agriculture Appropriations bill to once again block USDA from implementing the 2008 bipartisan Farm Bill reforms." Enforcement already falls short in leveling the playing field for small-scale producers, and the Senators highlighted that recent efforts by the nation's largest meatpackers to prevent further enforcement would be detrimental to America's family farmers and ranchers. Currently, four companies control over 80 percent of domestic beef processing, 60 percent of domestic hog processing, and 50 percent of domestic poultry processing. *********************************************************************************** Ground Broke on New ARS Research Facility in Georgia USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and the University of Georgia broke ground Wednesday on a new research facility on the UGA Tifton campus. The facility will house the Southeast Watershed Research Laboratory and the Crop Genetics and Breeding Research Unit. USDA says research at the facility will advance climate-smart agricultural research ranging from water resources to insect and pollinator management, and developing resilient and sustainable crop systems for the Southeastern United States. USDA Chief Scientist Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young says, "We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with scientists and students at the University of Georgia-Tifton, and we look forward to seeing this state-of-the-art facility foster additional innovation." USDA says the partnership between ARS and UGA highlights the importance of bringing cutting-edge research to the heart of South Georgia agriculture and helps prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders to take the world's stage through student experience and education.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 22, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets South American weather will be of concern as well as the EIA's weekly petroleum status report, which will give ethanol production and stocks and is out at 10 a.m. CST. At 7:30 a.m. CST we will get Initial Jobless Claims and at 9 a.m., existing home sales. Weather A weak system moving through the Eastern Corn Belt already has some showers and thunderstorms with it, but it'll be developing more widespread showers by the afternoon across the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys before making its way to the East Coast for Friday. Temperatures behind this system continue to be warm and it will be all rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 21, 2024 |
Assessment Shows U.S. Soy’s Carbon Footprint Has Considerably Decreased A newly released Life Cycle Assessment found the U.S. soybean industry’s global warming potential profile decreased considerably in 2021 for whole soybeans, soybean meal, and soy oil compared to previously reported findings in 2015 and 2010. Commissioned by the United Soybean Board and the National Oilseed Processors Association, the study assessed the main drivers of the environmental impact, including soybean cultivation and harvesting, transportation, and energy usage in processing. USB CEO Lucas Lentsch says, “This body of research helps farmers better assess and understand soy’s contribution to the environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of the entire soybean value chain.” The study found that the soybean industry’s carbon footprint decreased considerably in 2021 for all U.S. Soy commodities compared to 2015, including a 19 percent decrease for U.S. soybeans, a six percent decrease for U.S. soybean meal, a 22 percent decrease for U.S. crude soy oil and an eight percent decrease for U.S. refined soy oil. *********************************************************************************** Zinke Introduces Legislation to Protect Public Lands Congressman Ryan Zinke this week introduced the Public Lands in Public Hands Act. The Montanna Republican Representative announced the legislation during a roundtable in Bozeman, Montanna. The legislation would ban the sale or transfer of most public lands managed by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service except under specific conditions and where required under previous laws. The bill also requires Congressional approval for disposals of publicly accessible federal land tracts over 300 acres and public land tracts over five acres if accessible via a public waterway. This provision alone would protect public access to nearly 30 million acres of public lands depended upon by outdoorsmen of all types across Montana. Zinke says, “Public lands must remain public, and the federal government has a responsibility to manage and ensure access to those lands.” Zinke partnered with Democrat Congressman Gabe Vasquez from New Mexico on the legislation. *********************************************************************************** USDA Sets Dates for Peanut Checkoff Continuance Referendum The Department of Agriculture will conduct a referendum April 8-19, 2024, for eligible U.S. producers of peanuts to decide whether to continue their checkoff program. USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service will conduct the referendum by regular mail, express mail and electronic ballot. AMS staff will mail ballots and voting instructions to all known eligible U.S. peanut producers before the voting period. Folks engaged in the production and sale of peanuts at the time of the referendum and during the representative period of January 1 through December 31, 2022, are eligible to vote. The order will continue if a majority of producers voting in the referendum favor it. Completed ballots delivered to AMS via regular mail must be postmarked by April 19, 2024, to be counted. Ballots delivered to AMS via express mail or electronic ballot must show proof of delivery no later than 11:59 p.m. ET April 19, 2024 to be counted. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Renewable Energy Application Assistance The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced a grant program for organizations to provide hands-on assistance to producers applying for the Rural Energy for America Program, or REAP funding. USDA is making $16 million available through the REAP Technical Assistance Grants Program to provide additional support to farmers, ranchers and rural small business owners seeking REAP funds. Eligible recipients for these grants include state, Tribal or local governments; colleges and universities; electric cooperatives and utility companies; and for-profit and nonprofit organizations. USDA expects the effort to help rural agricultural producers and small business owners apply for REAP funding, provide information on how business owners and agricultural producers can improve the energy efficiency of their operations and use renewable energy technologies and resources, among other benefits. Since December 2022, USDA has made up to $1.3 billion available in REAP funding through the Inflation Reduction Act. Applications must be submitted by March 15, as detailed in the Federal Register. *********************************************************************************** CropLife America Appoints Next President and CEO CropLife America Tuesday announced Alexandra (Alex) Dunn as its new president and chief executive officer. Dunn joins CropLife America after serving as a Partner in the Environmental, Safety, and Incident Response group at the international law firm of Baker Botts, L.L.P. While at Baker Botts, Dunn worked on pesticide issues, chemical regulation, water quality, enforcement, litigation, environmental justice, and community engagement. In 2019, with bi-partisan support, she was confirmed with unanimous consent by the U.S. Senate, to serve as Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention from 2019 – 2021. CLA Chairman Andy Lee says, “Alex’s experience will provide guidance and leadership in both the policy and regulatory spaces.” Dunn responded, “I cannot think of a better moment than the present to work towards agricultural solutions that benefit the public and the planet.” CropLife America Partnered with executive search firm Kincannon & Reed for the search. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Trending Higher For the fourth straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline has gone up, rising 8.7 cents from a week ago to $3.26 per gallon. The national average is up 16.7 cents from a month ago but 11.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 10 cents last week and stands at $4.09 per gallon—38 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "One of the most critical elements to how much gas prices will climb is how quickly and effectively refiners can finish their pre-summer maintenance, start producing EPA-mandated summer gasoline, and build up supply of it before Memorial Day." The price of oil has seen some sideways movement, but overall strength continues, with oil now closing in on $80, its highest level since November. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an increase of 0.7 percent for the week ending February 18.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 21, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to watch the weather forecasts, especially for South America, while Brazil's soybeans are being harvested and corn is being planted. News also remains a concern from Ukraine, Israel and the Red Sea. At 1 p.m. CST, the Federal Reserve will release minutes from the January Open Market Committee meeting. Weather A storm system that has been bringing widespread showers to the West the past couple of days will move into the Southern Plains Wednesday night then head east through the Ohio Valley for Thursday. As the system leaves, scattered showers will develop from the Central Plains into the southern Midwest, being light, but becoming heavier in the Ohio Valley for Thursday. It continues to be warm both ahead of and behind this system, making it all rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 20, 2024 |
New Era of Growth for Clean Fuels Clean Fuels Alliance America welcomed almost 850 attendees from over 20 countries to its Clean Fuels Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. It was a chance to connect with key players in the biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel industries. “The conference offered a setting to unite on the mission and vision that are so critical to our success,” says Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “As our industry continues to evolve, it’ll be even more important to remain together and focused on the issues that move us forward.” Companies including BNSF Railway, Union Pacific, American Airlines, and PepsiCo took the stage to discuss sustainability goals and how clean fuels are moving the needle to reach them. OEM operators took attendees behind the scenes to explain how they are embracing the challenge of decarbonization and securing approvals to ensure liquid fuels continue to play a pivotal role in powering heavy-duty machinery. *********************************************************************************** Rural Mental Health Group Wins Prestigious Award Rural mental health national nonprofit Rural Minds was selected as the 2023 STARR Coalition Advocacy Organization of the Year and won the prestigious STARR Award. “This recognition is given to the advocacy organization that’s demonstrated exceptional dedication to advocating for those living with mental illness, their efforts to fight the mental illness stigma, and who support efforts to expand mental health research,” says Erica Moore of the STARR Coalition. Rural Minds Executive Director Chuck Strand says, “We thank the coalition for the award and recognition of the collaborative work we are doing through Rural Minds to help people in rural communities overcome unique barriers to mental health.” Rural Minds Founder and Chairman Jeff Winton adds that they look forward to the ongoing collaboration with other nonprofits, corporations, and individuals across the country as they confront the growing health issue facing rural America. For more information on the group, go to ruralminds.org. *********************************************************************************** Pork Exports Projected to Surpass Broiler Chicken Exports USDA’s long-term projection data shows the volume of U.S. red meat exports in all major categories is projected to grow through 2033. Rising incomes abroad and a moderately declining real exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the currencies of major agricultural trading partners lend support to U.S. red meat and poultry exports. By 2028, pork exports are set to exceed exports of broiler chickens for the first time since 1976. Steady growth in U.S. pork production, driven by a combination of increasing slaughter weights, rising pigs per litter, and higher inventories, is projected to support rapid growth in exports. New environmental policies in the European Union are expected to impact pork production and reduce the growth of EU exports, which will enhance U.S. competitiveness. U.S. pork exports are expected to increase by 34 percent from an expected 6.95 billion pounds in 2024 to a projected 9.34 billion pounds by 2033. *********************************************************************************** Prop 12 Will Cause Market Chaos Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack didn’t hold back when asked about the potential economic harm of California’s Prop 12. “If Congress doesn’t act, we’re going to have chaos in the marketplace,” Vilsack said in response to a question from House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson. California’s Prop 12 went into effect on January 1 and placed housing restrictions on farms that ship pork to the state. By setting production standards in other states, California is regulating interstate commerce, which Prop 12 opponents say is an authority reserved for the federal government. “The reality is that when each state has the ability to define for itself and its consumers exactly what farming techniques are appropriate, it creates the possibility of 50 different sets of regulations,” Vilsack says. “That means no certainty for producers.” He also says if the issue isn’t taken seriously, it’ll mean chaos because other states can take the same steps. *********************************************************************************** Land Use Study Shows Interesting Results A new study from the researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Energy Resource Center evaluates the environmental and economic impacts of land use change. The land use change impact is specifically for land that moves in and out of cropland over ten-year time periods. The study aimed to determine land use and soil organic carbon stocks on 1,000 land parcels over a 36-year period. “As part of this study, we conducted a historical analysis going back to 1985 and found that longer time intervals need to be considered when determining the environmental and economic impact of land use changes,” says lead researcher Ken Copenhaver. “Notably, this is not something that current regulations are taking into consideration.” Using advanced satellite imagery and aerial photography, the researchers discovered their findings challenge previous studies that primarily focus on shorter time intervals, often less than ten years when examining land use changes.” *********************************************************************************** Western Land Survey Shows Unity on Concerns A new poll that surveyed at least 400 registered voters in each of the eight western states shows residents putting a top priority on clean air, clean water, conservation, and combating wildfires. The 14th annual Colorado College’s “Conservation in the West” poll found a lot of agreement, in a nation that’s become highly polarized, over the issue of protecting wild places, preserving wildlife migration corridors, and doing more to ensure the availability of a clean water supply. “There may be a lot that divides voters across the country, but in the West, there’s almost universal consensus in favor of conservation,” says Katrina Miller-Stevens, an associate professor at Colorado College. “Not only do voters prefer conservation when asked how water and public lands should be used, but issues involving water, air, land, and wildlife are top of mind when making their voting decisions.” Sixty-six percent of respondents think climate change impacts are significant
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 20, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Short Market Week, Clipper Weather Systems 1. Presidents Day holiday: Markets are closed on Monday in observance of federal Presidents Day holiday in the United States, although mandatory livestock reports are still released that day. Canadian markets are also closed for Family Day in some provinces or named a different holiday in others. We'll have limited updates, with market coverage and full news coverage resuming Tuesday. 2. Census of Ag details: We'll continue to dig into the trends and surprises from the 2022 Census of Agriculture. 3. More machinery coverage: We'll have additional pieces from our attendance at several of the winter farm equipment shows. 4. Weather changes: Throughout next week, multiple clipper systems will cross the Central U.S., providing areas of rain and isolated snow showers. The Northern and Central Plains may see warmer weather return through the week. In the Midwest, those systems will also bring higher temperatures, which will keep precipitation in the form of rain instead of snow. In South America, a system off the Brazil coast will continue to produce showers in southern and eastern Brazil through early this week. The front that is moving through Argentina this week may produce scattered showers later in the week. 5. Economic reports to Watch: Monday is the Presidents Day holiday, commodity and stock markets are closed and no government reports are out, although mandatory livestock reports are still released that day. Canadian markets are closed for Family Day/another holiday on Monday. China futures markets will reopen. U.S. futures markets open Tuesday morning. Tuesday starts with the U.S. Leading Economic Indicators report at 9 a.m., followed by U.S. Grain Inspections at 10 a.m. The NASS Chicken and Eggs Annual report is out at 2 p.m. Then Thursday starts with Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m.; at 8:45 a.m. is S & P services and manufacturing PMIs; 9 a.m. is the release of existing home sales, and at 10 a.m. the EIA will release the weekly petroleum status report, including weekly ethanol production and stocks. At 2 p.m. we'll see the livestock and poultry slaughter reports and broiler hatchery and milk production reports. Friday starts with grain export sales at 7:30 a.m. and at 2 p.m. is the Cattle on Feed report. Watch for our Cattle on Feed Preview story prior to the report's release.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 20, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will again focus on South American weather over the weekend and the coming weeks. At 9 a.m. CST the U.S. Leading Economic Indicators report will be released. At 10 a.m. CST we will get the Grain Inspections report release. Weather Areas east of the Rockies are seeing another quiet day, but a storm system is coming ashore in the West that will cause a system later this week farther east. Temperatures continue to rise and well-above normal readings are returning again.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 16, 2024 |
Farmers Can Use Existing Dicamba Stocks An Arizona District Court vacated the 2020 registration of over-the-top dicamba products, so the Environmental Protection Agency issued an Existing Stocks Order. The order allows limited sale and distribution of dicamba products that were already in possession of growers or in trade channels outside of the control of pesticide companies by February 6. The order also prohibits the use of these dicamba products except where the use is consistent with the previously approved labeling, which included measures intended to reduce environmental damage caused by offsite movement of the pesticide. The EPA issued the order after receiving enough evidence that millions of gallons of OTT dicamba had already entered the trade channels before February 6. Plus, growers aren’t able to switch to other options due to the timing of the Arizona court’s decision. The order applies only to dicamba formulations designed to use over the top of dicamba-tolerant soybeans and cotton. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Appreciate EPA Existing Stocks Order U.S. agriculture groups expressed appreciation for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Existing Stocks Order on over-the-top dicamba use in 2024. “We’re grateful to EPA for hearing farmers’ and ranchers’ concerns and addressing them quickly to make sure they have the crop protection tools they need,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Without EPA stepping in, farmers and ranchers were facing significant uncertainty and financial risk.” American Soybean Association President Josh Gackle says tens of millions of farmland acres were in limbo. “This ruling potentially affects more than 50 million acres of dicamba-tolerant soybeans and cotton, an area larger than Nebraska.” Ted McKinney, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, was also pleased with the decision. “As co-regulatory partners with EPA, we commend the agency for issuing the existing stocks order on dicamba,” he says. “The stocks order will prevent severe detrimental impacts to our food, fuel, and fiber availability.” *********************************************************************************** January Tractor Sales Up Slightly in the U.S. Unit sales of four-wheel-drive tractors grew slightly in the U.S. during January. The latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows four-wheel-drive tractor sales increased 1.4 percent year-over-year and was the only segment to show growth in January. In Canada, four-wheel-drive tractor sales were unchanged at 409 units in January compared to 2023. “The slight gain in U.S. four-wheel-drive tractors is positive news as 2024 begins,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “While overall sales fell in both the U.S. and Canada compared to January 2023 sales, we remain optimistic about future long-term growth.” Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors dropped 21.2 percent compared to January 2023 sales, while combine sales finished 4.9 percent below last January. Under-40 horsepower tractors were down 26 percent from last year. Canadian tractor sales ended January 30 percent below the 2023 data. Combines were also down 9.5 percent in January compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Costs to Jump 29 Percent The federally-subsidized crop insurance program will cost an additional $27.7 billion over the next decade. A Congressional Budget Office report says the government pays roughly 62 cents of each dollar in premiums, and sales of livestock and forage policies are exploding. A Farmdoc report says crop insurance costs should rise by 29 percent to nearly $125 billion for the decade ending in 2033. Despite the increase, USDA spending on crop and livestock subsidies and land stewardship programs should remain stable. While crop insurance costs likely will increase, the Senate Ag Committee says that projected costs for all farm bill-related programs are now $1.46 trillion between 2025 and 2034. That’s down 3.5 percent from the previous ten-year baseline of $1.5 trillion. Livestock insurance programs have grown dramatically since 2018 when Congress increased the premium subsidy rates for coverage. Policies covered $26.4 billion of liabilities in 2023, compared to $512 million in 2018. *********************************************************************************** Eighteen Months From a Bird Flu Vaccine Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the United States is 18 months away from a vaccine for bird flu. That news comes as more than 81 million U.S. poultry and aquatic birds have been killed by avian flu across 47 states since January 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The U.S. has found bird flu this year in eight commercial flocks and 14 backyard flocks so far, affecting 530,000 poultry. During a Congressional hearing, Vilsack said, “We’re probably 18 months away from being able to identify a vaccine that would be effective for the particular flu we’re dealing with now.” Forth News says the USDA plans to discuss poultry vaccinations with trading partners amid concerns that other countries could restrict imports of vaccinated U.S. poultry. In May, the World Organization for Animal Health said governments should consider flu vaccines in their poultry to prevent the spread of avian influenza. *********************************************************************************** USGC Winter Meeting Underway in Guatemala U.S. Grains Council members and staff gathered in Guatemala this week for the Council’s 21st International Marketing Conference and 64th Annual Membership Meeting. The meeting runs through Friday and will involve discussions of the current state of feed grain and biofuel markets around the world and an update for attendees on the Council’s plans for 2024 and beyond. USGC Chair Brent Boydston opened the event with a welcome and an overview of his tenure thus far. “My theme for this year, Growing the Future, reflects both the opportunities and challenges of the current trade environment,” Boydston says. “We gather to discuss issues facing our industry and explore future demand for feed grains, distiller’s dried grains with solubles, and ethanol around the world.” Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip addressed attendees and outlined the importance of his office’s work in Guatemala and Central America. More information is available on social media at #Grains24.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 16, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Traders will again focus on South American weather. Government reports out at 7:30 CST are Housing Starts, Building Permits, the Producer Price Index (PPI) and Core Producer Price Index. Weather Another clipper system from the Dakotas has made its way into the Southern Midwest Friday morning and will provide snow showers to the Eastern and Southern Midwest throughout the day. Farther south, temperatures will be milder for rain showers across the Southern Delta and Tennessee Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 15, 2024 |
Analysis: Crop Insurance Prices Lower This Year An analysis by the University of Illinois projects crop insurance prices will be much lower than in 2023, resulting in lower per-acre premiums in 2024. That's because of lower corn and soybean futures during the first half of this month. Researchers say premiums are likely to be 16 to 18 percent lower for corn and ten to 12 percent lower for soybean policies based on current estimates for in Champaign and Jefferson Counties in Illinois. Since lower insurance prices also result in lower guarantees per acre, researchers say farmers may wish to increase their coverage levels with the premium savings. The projected insurance prices for corn and soybeans are based on average settlement prices on each crops' harvest contract during the month of February. Through February 9, the December corn contract has averaged $4.74 per bushel. The November soybean contract has averaged $11.73 per bushel or $2.03 below the $13.76 projected price in 2023, a decline of nearly 15 percent. Find the full analysis on the farmdocDAILY website. *********************************************************************************** Industry Responds to Census of Agriculture Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack calls the data in the 2022 Census of Agriculture a "wake-up call" for the industry. In a statement following the release of the Census, Vilsack says, "It's imperative that we continue to deliver agriculture policies that create multiple streams of income and new, more competitive models for small- and mid-sized farms." The Census reports 141,733 fewer farms in 2022 than in 2017. The number of farm acres fell more than 20 million acres from just five years earlier. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “Increased regulations, rising supply costs, lack of available labor and weather disasters have all squeezed farmers to the point that many of them find it impossible to remain economically sustainable.” Vilsack adds, “We are at a pivotal moment, in which we have the opportunity to hold tight to the status quo and shrink our nation's agriculture sector further, or we can choose a more expansive, newer model that creates more opportunity, for more farmers." *********************************************************************************** Census of Agriculture Highlights Aging Farmer Population The 2022 Census of Agriculture shows the number of farmers over the age of 65 is outpacing younger farmers. Almost 1.3 million farmers are now at or beyond retirement age, while just 300,000 farmers are under the age of 35. The average age of all producers was 58.1, up 0.6 years from 2017. However, this is a smaller increase than average age increases between prior censuses. There were just over one million farmers with ten or fewer years of experience, an increase in the number of beginning farmers from 2017 of 11 percent. Beginning farmers are younger than all farmers, with an average age of 47.1. The number of producers under age 35 was 296,480, comprising nine percent of all producers. In 2022, 1.2 million female producers accounted for 36 percent of all producers. And the data shows that 58 percent of all farms had at least one female decision maker. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Food Prices Increased 5.8% in 2023 In 2023, all food prices increased by 5.8 percent on average compared with 2022. The figure includes both food away from home and food purchased for consumption at home. Food-at-home prices increased by 5.0 percent, while food-away-from-home prices increased by 7.1 percent. Food prices are expected to continue to decelerate in 2024. The all food prices are predicted to increase 1.3 percent, with a prediction interval of -1.4 to 4.2 percent. Food-at-home prices are predicted to decrease 0.4 percent, with a prediction interval of -4.5 to 4.0 percent, and food-away-from-home prices are predicted to increase 4.7 percent, with a prediction interval of 3.1 to 6.2 percent. Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index earlier this week indicated an increase in January. The food index rose 0.4 percent in January, and the food at home index also increased 0.4 percent over the month. The food at home index rose 1.2 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 5.1 percent. *********************************************************************************** NFU Leads Letter to Congress: Uphold Packers and Stockyards Act Progress National Farmers Union this week sent a letter to Appropriations Committee leadership opposing restrictions that would undo work to revitalize the Packers and Stockyards Act. The letter, signed by national, regional, and state organizations, points out that "opponents of competitive agricultural markets are seeking to roll back the work USDA has already completed, prevent USDA from making additional progress on these rules, and prevent any similar effort in the future." Damaging provisions were included in an earlier version of the FY24 Appropriations bill, and this same strategy was used by opponents of the Act during previous administrations. NFU President Rob Larew says, "Blocking USDA's work would be a direct hit to fair markets," adding, "Congress should champion family farmers and consumers, not bow to meatpacking monopolies. We urge them to discard this harmful proposal once and for all." Just this week, USDA's first updated Packers and Stockyards Act rule went into effect, with many more important rules to follow. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investment to Help Indigenous Communities Access Climate Markets The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced a $20 million investment to support indigenous communities in accessing emerging climate markets. The funding, distributed through competitive grants administered by the USDA Forest Service, will help recipients access emerging private markets for forest resilience, climate mitigation, water quality, carbon sequestration and more. Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, “Tribes and Alaska Native corporations and villages will have broader access to markets that will help address the climate crisis.” Deputy Secretary Torres Small made the announcement during a meeting of the National Congress of American Indians in Washington. The non-profit National Congress is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the interests of Tribal governments and communities. The investments fund work on tribal lands and complement USDA's commitment to advance co-stewardship of national forests and grasslands. Proposals for this new grant opportunity may be submitted through August 21, 2024, at grants.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 15, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Traders will again focus on South American weather and watch for export sales out at 7:30 a.m. CST. The USDA Ag Outlook Forum is also taking place and we will get a look at their new crop balance sheets. Other government reports out include Initial Jobless claims, U.S. Retail Sales, and Industrial Production. Weather A clipper system providing snow to the Great Lakes and rain showers to the Eastern Midwest will exit these regions Thursday. Another clipper from the Northern Rockies will enter the Dakotas and Central Plains later Thursday into the evening, possibly providing a band of six inches of snow across southern South Dakota and northern Nebraska.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 14, 2024 |
USDA Releases 2022 Census of Agriculture USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service Tuesday announced the 2022 Census of Agriculture results. The information collected directly from producers shows a continued decline in the total number of U.S. farms. However, the data also show a rise in the number of new and beginning farmers and young producers. New and beginning farmers are defined as those operating ten or fewer years on any farm and young producers are those under the age of 35. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Overall, though there are always changes across U.S. agriculture, the data remain largely consistent with the previous ag census.” The data shows there were 1.9 million farms and ranches, down seven percent from 2017, with an average size of 463 acres, up five percent. Family-owned and operated farms accounted for 95 percent of all U.S. farms and operated 84 percent of land in farms. Find the complete data set online at nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Increased in January Grocery prices increased slightly last month, according to the latest Consumer Price Index released Tuesday. The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 0.3 percent in January on a seasonally adjusted basis, after rising 0.2 percent in December. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 3.1 percent. The food index rose 0.4 percent in January, and the food at home index also increased 0.4 percent over the month. Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased over the month. The food away from home index rose 0.5 percent in January. The index for full-service meals rose 0.4 percent and the index for limited service meals increased 0.6 percent over the month. The food at home index rose 1.2 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 5.1 percent over the last year. *********************************************************************************** Productivity The Major Driver of U.S. Agricultural Growth Technological developments in agriculture have enabled continued output growth without requiring much additional inputs, according to a new USDA Economic Research Service report. 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, 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. Total factor productivity measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the combined inputs in farm production. Growth in total factor productivity indicates positive changes in the efficiency with which inputs are transformed into outputs. In the most recent calculation period spanning 2020–21, agricultural output grew, which was due entirely to total factor productivity growth, even as the amount of inputs used in farming fell. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases North America 2023 Potato Production Data A new report from the Agriculture Departments of the U.S., Mexico, and Canada reveals the 2023 North American Potato harvest data. USDA released the North American Potatoes report this week. The 2023 potato production for the United States and Canada combined is estimated at 570 million per hundredweight, up eight percent from the 2022 estimate. The United States potato production is estimated at 441 million hundredweight, up ten percent from last year. Canada's potato growers harvested 129 million, up four percent from 2022. The 2022 potato production for the United States, Canada, and Mexico combined is 567 million hundredweight, down two percent from the 2021 estimate. The United States 2022 potato production is estimated at 402 million hundredweight, down three percent from 2021. Canada’s potato growers harvested 124 million hundredweight during 2022, up two percent from 2021. Mexico’s potato growers harvested 41.4 million hundredweight during 2022, down four percent from 2021. *********************************************************************************** USDA Ag Outlook Forum Thursday USDA will hold its annual Ag Outlook Forum Thursday. The two-day event is USDA's 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, themed “Cultivating the Future.” The vent features more than 30 sessions and 120 speakers, and offers a rich and diverse program covering a range of timely topics such as commodity markets, trade, technology, climate change and more. Thursday will feature USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer’s presentation on the 2024 Agricultural Economic and Foreign Trade Outlook, and a Keynote address by Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. Day two on Friday features a plenary session titled, “Fostering Diverse Opportunities for U.S. Agricultural Exports in the Global Marketplace.” Friday\’s schedule included virtual remarks by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, and remarks from U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. USDA will hold the event at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. For more information about the program and registration, visit the Agricultural Outlook Forum website. *********************************************************************************** Collaboration Seeks Japanese Encephalitis Virus Research A new collaboration seeks to fund research for prevention and preparedness capabilities for Japanese encephalitis virus, a transboundary disease risk for U.S. introduction. The Swine Health Information Center and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research have partnered to fund a $1 million research program. Japanese encephalitis is an emerging zoonotic disease identified through global monitoring as a priority for North American prevention and preparedness activities. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, and biosecurity practices focused on mosquito control are key to reducing risk. In 2022, an outbreak of the disease spread rapidly across new geographic regions of Australia, affecting breeding swine herds. Individual awards are capped at $250,000, but proposals may exceed the cap if sufficient justification is provided. All projects should strive to be unique, have a high impact, show value to pork producers, and have industry-wide benefit. Additional information can be found at www.swinehealth.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 14, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will again focus on South American weather, and at 10 a.m. CST, the EIA will be out with their Weekly Petroleum report which will detail weekly ethanol production and stocks. There will be no government economic reports following Tuesday's higher than expected Consumer Price Index data. Weather A band of moderate to heavy snow will develop across South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin Wednesday and parts of west-central Minnesota and east-central South Dakota could see up to eight inches of snow. Cooler temperatures are expected behind this system.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 13, 2024 |
Growth Rate of World Ag Production Slows USDA says in the last decade, world agricultural output grew at an average annual rate of 1.94 percent per year, far slower than the 2.74 percent growth rate over the prior decade. That’s also below the average annual rate of 2.3 percent over the past six decades from 1961-2021. The slowdown was primarily tied to a slowing rate of growth in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP), which fell 1.4 percent per year in 2011-2021 compared to 1.93 percent per year during the previous decade. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the aggregated inputs used in the production process, including land, capital, labor, and material resources. There are four major sources for overall growth, including bringing more land into production, extending irrigation to land, intensifying the use of capital, labor, and material inputs per unit of land, and improving TFP, reflecting the rate of technological and efficiency improvements of inputs. *********************************************************************************** Questions Continue About Farm Kids and Financial Aid Iowa Republican Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are pressing the Department of Education for clarity regarding Question 22 on the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid. They’re especially concerned that the way the agency chooses to ask the question will force students to list the net worth of family farms as assets. Current ambiguities could cut off farm kids from needed financial aid and make it less feasible for them to attend college. “The question fundamentally misunderstands how the family farm operates, as the stream of revenue for crops and livestock varies significantly year-over-year, and assets cannot get cashed out to support a loan in the same capacity as traditional investments,” the senators wrote in a letter to the Education Department. “We reiterate our concern with the nature of this question and the lack of insight on how the adjusted formula will impact students from an agricultural background.” *********************************************************************************** FACA Sees Workforce Development Opportunities The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance welcomes the launch of a USDA workforce development initiative aimed at building the next generation of conservation delivery providers. The Working Lands Climate Corps is a promising opportunity to provide on-the-ground education and training to develop the skillset needed to address natural resource challenges. Climate Corps fellows, working with state and local organizations, will gain the skills needed to provide conservation technical assistance to agricultural producers who are voluntarily making climate-smart investments in their operations. FACA appreciates USDA’s commitment to building the next generation of boots on the ground but acknowledges the immediate need for more capacity today. “We encourage USDA to continue to prioritize ongoing capacity-building and recruitment efforts,” FACA says. “These two efforts are complementary and necessary to build a robust workforce to scale conservation delivery. FACA members are united in support of climate policies that are voluntary, market-based, and scientifically sound. *********************************************************************************** FMMO Next Steps Begin With the Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing now complete, USDA is now considering the more than 12,000 pages of testimony as it formulates a plan for FMMO modernization. The National Milk Producers Federation is still doing what it can to ensure that the proposal best reflects the interest of dairy farmers and their cooperatives. The organization says the key to a successful modernization is a comprehensive approach that addresses the complexity of federal orders in a way that respects the entire dairy industry while keeping in mind that orders most fundamentally must work for farmers. That’s the bedrock principle behind NMPF proposals on areas ranging from returning to the “higher-of” Class I mover to updating milk composition factors. “You can’t look at the federal order system having not been updated in 20 years and not address all facets of the industry,” says Stephen Cain, NMPF Senior Director for Economic Research and Analysis. *********************************************************************************** Grocery Buying Goes Online In 2022, the Economic Research Service’s Eating and Health Module captured, for the first time, nationally representative data concerning the prevalence and frequency of Americans doing online grocery shopping. The survey data revealed that nearly nine out of ten individuals aged 15 and older (87.2 percent) reported they usually grocery shopped for their household either online or in person. Of these, about two in 10 (19.3 percent) had bought groceries online at least in the past 30 days. However, the frequency of online shopping varied. Among those who had bought groceries online in the past month, 30 percent did once, 25 percent made two online purchases, and 44 percent bought groceries online three or more times. The landscape of online grocery shopping took a big shift in 2020 because of COVID. The Food and Drug Administration says online grocery sales grew 55 percent from 2019’s $62 billion to $96 billion in 2020. *********************************************************************************** Fake Meat Investment Falls The last 12 months have been c challenging for cultivated meat and seafood companies trying to raise capital. For example, AGFunderNews.com says Finless Foods is making cutbacks to conserve cash, New Age Eats running out of funds, and GOOD Meat getting sued by its bioreactor supplier over allegedly unpaid bills. As AgFunder runs the numbers, preliminary data shows that funding for cultivated meat startups peaked at $989 million in 2021, dipped slightly to $807 million in 2022, and then dropped sharply last year, falling 78 percent to $177 million against a backdrop of a 50 percent drop in agrifood tech investing overall in 2023. While the funding rounds were far smaller in 2023 versus 2022, investors placed a sizable bet on Uncommon, a UK-based startup formerly called Higher Steaks. That investment netted $30 million in funding to scale the production of cultivated pork using patent-pending technology by speeding up the cell differentiation process.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 13, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for January will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday. USDA's 2022 Census of Agriculture is also due out sometime Tuesday. Traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts in South America and events in the Middle East. Weather A system that brought heavy rain and some snow to the Southeast Monday continues on the East Coast for Tuesday. A clipper coming down from Canada will be getting into the Northern Plains with some isolated snow showers as well, but most areas are going to be quiet Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 12, 2024 |
U.S. Pork Exports Set Annual Record Led by a record-shattering performance in Mexico and broad-based growth elsewhere, U.S. pork exports set a value record in 2023. Data shows December pork exports rose 10 percent from the prior year to 268,400 metric tons, the largest since May 2021 and the eighth-largest on record. Export value increased 11 percent to $766 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the third-highest on record. The strong December pushed 2023 export value to a record $8.16 billion, six percent higher than 2022. Export volume reached 2.91 million tons, eight percent higher year-over-year and the third-largest on record. Beef exports closed the year on a higher note, with December totaling 108,497 million tons, down four percent year-over-year but the largest level since August. Export value was also the highest since August, climbing 10 percent over 2022 to $860.8 million. 2023 beef exports hit 1.29 million tons, 12 percent below 2022 levels. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Need Access to Crop Protection Tools American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency asking the agency to allow farmers to use existing dicamba stocks for the upcoming season. An Arizona court vacated the registration of three dicamba products critically important for farmers in fighting resistant weeds. “Many farmers have already made planting decisions to use dicamba-tolerant crop systems and have planned to use dicamba products in the near future,” Duvall says. “These farmers invested in substantial sums in the dicamba-resistant seeds in reliance on EPA’s prior approval of dicamba on these crops.” He adds that without those products, not only are the substantial investments at risk, but farmers don’t know how they’ll protect their crops. AFB is asking EPA to issue an existing stock order to ensure dicamba remains available to farmers throughout the growing season. “We are committed to the safe use of all crop protection tools,” Duvall adds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Contributes $270 Million to Bolster Food Supply Chain Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA has awarded over $270 million to date through cooperative agreements with state departments of agriculture to build resilience across the middle of the food supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems. The funding is awarded through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. At the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s Winter Policy Conference, Vilsack announced Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Louisiana, Utah, and West Virginia have now opened their Request for Applications for the program, joining 28 states that are already offering grant funding for projects that support supply chain infrastructure. “These unprecedented investments into our nation’s supply chain infrastructure will not only benefit consumers by ensuring they have dependable access to fresh and locally produced food, but the investments will also benefit producers and rural communities by providing more and better markets for small and mid-sized producers,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Part of Massachusetts Pork Law Ruled Unconstitutional A U.S. District Judge ruled that a portion of the recent Massachusetts law that bans the sale of pork if a pig is held in a confined space is unconstitutional. However, Boston media reports say the judge is allowing that part of the law to be severed, and the rest will stay in effect for now. Judge William Young made the ruling following a lawsuit by pork processors and other pig farmers who believed the pork law was unconstitutional. The law, called “The Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act,” was approved by voters in 2016 and banned the sale of eggs, veal, and pork from animals held in conditions deemed cruel. The portion of the law getting argued was an exemption that allowed the sale of pork from federally inspected slaughterhouses in Massachusetts that don’t meet requirements as long as the buyers take possession of the pork while on their premises. *********************************************************************************** EPA Outlines Potential ESA Pesticide Policies The Environmental Protection Agency announced implementation approaches for pesticide policies under the Endangered Species Act. Assistant Administrator Michael Freedhoff talked about the steps during a speech at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s winter policy conference. When registering pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, EPA must also comply with the Endangered Species Act to ensure the pesticides don’t harm endangered species or their habitats. EPA announced additional plans to address concerns about the challenge of protecting endangered species from exposure and expand its partnership with the USDA. EPA says it won’t implement the Vulnerable Species Pilot Protections for a species until a more refined map of its habitat gets developed. The agency is also working to develop new maps that better reflect where the species actually live and where protections from pesticides are needed most. “These steps will benefit farmers and endangered species,” Freedhoff says. *********************************************************************************** McDonald’s Hits 100 Percent Cage-Free Eggs McDonald’s says it met the goal of sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. by 2025, two years ahead of its original timeline. The company says it’s continuing to prioritize the health and welfare of the animals in its supply chain. The improvement is in the power of the “McDonald’s System” working together towards a shared goal. As a U.S. system, McDonald’s purchased almost two billion eggs in 2023, close to six times the entire U.S. population. “Our journey to move to sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. was a huge undertaking that was made uniquely possible by our owner/operators, producers, and our supply chain working together as one team,” says Bob Stewart, SVP and North American Chief Supply Chain Officer for McDonald’s. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved together and the positive impact we’ll continue to make on the path toward a more sustainable future.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 12, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Big Shows and Big Reports 1. National machinery shows: Two of the big farm shows kick off this week. DTN will have a series of markets, weather and cropping sessions going on during the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky. Come hear DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman -- they'll have daily sessions on our weather and commodity markets outlooks Wednesday (at 2:30 p.m. EST), Thursday (8:30 a.m. EST) and Friday (10 a.m. EST). Our Successful Cover Crop Strategies session, featuring a panel of cover crop and carbon program experts, is Thursday at 10:30 a.m. We'll also have DTN Senior Editor Dan Miller and others reporting from the show floor. DTN Senior Editor Joel Reichberger will be at Tulare, California to report the latest new technologies on display at the World Ag Expo. 2. Census of Ag: On Feb. 13, USDA will release results of the 2022 Census of Agriculture. We'll have insights into some of the key trends in prices, land ownership and other key indicators that have taken shape since the 2017 Ag Census. We'll have continued reporting on census figures through the coming weeks. 3. USDA Outlook Conference. On Feb. 15-16, USDA will hold its annual outlook conference in Washington, D.C. This year's conference is a few weeks earlier than normal, but will feature USDA's official outlook on all the major commodities for 2024. We'll report from the event. 4. Weather cools: The unseasonably warm conditions of the past 10 or so days will taper somewhat, though most of the country will still see temperatures slightly above to above normal for mid-February. Systems could bring more showers to the Southern and Central Plains late in the week. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday starts with grain inspection reports at 10 a.m. At 1 p.m. the Monthly Federal Budget report is revealed. Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. we will have the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Core CPI and Core CPI year-over-year results. On Wednesday (Happy Valentine's Day!) we'll see the EIA Weekly Petroleum Report, including ethanol production and stocks, at 10 a.m. Then Thursday sees a collection of reports hitting at 7:30 a.m., including weekly grain and oilseed export sales, initial jobless claims, U.S. retail sales and national import and export numbers. Industrial Production numbers are out at 8:15 a.m., with Home Builder Confidence Index at 9 a.m. and the weekly Economic Index Report at 10:30 a.m. (Don't forget to water those flowers you bought your Valentine. Wait, you did get flowers, right?) Friday morning will be busy. We'll see U.S. Housing Starts report at 7:30 a.m., as well as Building Permits and the New Residential Construction report, along with the Producer Price Index (PPI), Core PPI, and PPI Year-Over-Year reports. At 9 a.m. the Consumer Sentiment report will be released. Whew!
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 12, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying attention to South American weather and the latest events from the Middle East. Markets in China are closed this week for the Lunar New Year. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CST. The U.S. Treasury Department reports on the federal budget for January at 1 p.m. Weather A system from the weekend continues to move through the Southeast on Monday, with areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms, some of which may be severe. On the northern end of the storm, it will be just cold enough to get some snow to fall from southern Missouri through portions of the Ohio Valley. Despite the snow, it still remains mild by February standards in most places of the country outside of the Southwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 9, 2024 |
February WASDE Shows Higher Corn, Soybean Ending Stocks The February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates show the 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook calling for lower food, seed, and industrial use and larger ending stocks. Lower usage will lead to a 10 million bushel increase in ending stocks compared to last month’s report. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 a bushel. This month’s soybean outlook is for lower exports and higher ending stocks. Soybean exports are forecast at 1.72 billion bushels, down 35 million from last month. With crush unchanged, ending stocks are forecast at 315 million bushels, up 35 million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast a dime lower to $12.65 per bushel. The wheat outlook is for stable supplies, lower domestic use, unchanged exports, and higher ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are up 10 million bushels to 658 million. The season-average farm price forecast is unchanged at $7.20 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Ag Retailers Association Unhappy with Dicamba Decision Earlier this week, a federal District Court in Arizona vacated the registration for over-the-top applications of dicamba on dicamba-tolerant soybeans and cotton. While the court decision came from Arizona, the decision is national in scope. The Ag Retailers Association disagrees with the decision, noting the determination should be made by a science-based regulatory agency. The association says, “The timing of the decision will be extremely disruptive to ag retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and farmers planning to use the products in 2024.” The ARA points out that farmers have already made their decisions about what varieties of cotton and soybean seeds they want to plant this year, and retailers are already stocking not only the seeds but also the herbicides the growers need for their systems. “The decision comes after most planning is finished and while we are procuring those products that farmers need,” the ARA adds. “It’s the worst possible time.” *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Lack of Heifers May Limit Milk Production Growth A sharp decline in the number of dairy heifers available to replace older cows exiting the U.S. dairy herd could limit meaningful growth in milk production. The number of dairy replacement heifers has fallen almost 15 percent in the last six years to reach a 20-year low. While the global demand outlook for U.S. dairy products is murky due to export market uncertainties, any potential growth opportunities may get stymied by an inability to expand U.S. milk production. A new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says the rising cost of rearing dairy heifer calves has far outpaced increases in heifer values over the last several years. That imbalance has prompted dairy farmers to reduce their replacement heifer inventories, doing so, in large part, by breeding more dairy heifers and cows to beef bulls. “Farmers can cut costs associated with heifers and generate additional income from beef,” says Cory Geiger of CoBank. *********************************************************************************** Renewable Diesel to Expand by 30 Percent Annually The Energy Information Administration predicts renewable diesel production to increase by 30 percent annually in both 2024 and 2025. In its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook, the EIA says renewable diesel production will average approximately 230,000 barrels per day in 2024 and expand to 290,000 barrels per day in 2025. In comparison, production averaged approximately 200,000 barrels per day at the end of 2023. Renewable diesel production capacity has expanded significantly in recent years. EIA data shows capacity was at 1.75 billion gallons a year in January 2022 and had reached 3.85 billion gallons a year by November 2023. The EIA also announced it is reducing U.S. crude oil capacity forecast by 120,000 barrels per day beginning in March. That prediction comes after Phillips 66 plans to permanently stop processing crude oil at its Rodeo refinery in California next month. The company is planning to convert the facility to produce renewable diesel. *********************************************************************************** NIAA Adopts New Strategic Plan To ensure the National Institute for Animal Agriculture continues to meet its mission, the board of directors adopted a new strategic plan earlier this year. The board adopted the NIAA 2024 – 2026 Strategic Plan during their January meeting. “Fellow board members and I are looking forward to implementing these new strategic pillars and building on achievements from the past four years,” says Dr. Eric Moore, NIAA Chair. The strategic plan focuses on four pillars. The first is Convening: NIAA is the top forum for convening diverse thought leaders in animal ag. Number two is Leadership Development which empowers leaders to positively affect the future of animal agriculture. Three is Communications and Marketing which disseminates resources to the industry. The fourth is Fostering Innovation in Animal Agriculture, which includes facilitating awareness of innovative technologies and practices that are economically viable and scientifically sound to improve the profitability and sustainability of animal agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Favorite Super Bowl Snacks The Super Bowl is on Sunday and will be watched by approximately 113 million people. Food is a big part of Super Bowl parties, and Frito-Lay’s Super Bowl Snack Index has some interesting food trends. Seventy percent of experienced hosts begin gearing up by planning meals, and 51 percent start preparations at least a week early. Three in five guests admit the promise of top-notch food is the deciding factor in which Super Bowl party they attend. It’s particularly true in 77 percent of the under-40 crowd. Potlucks prevail as the preferred party format at 67 percent, highlighting the popularity of collaborative celebrations over host-provided fare. Salsa (27 percent), French Onion (21 percent), and Queso (20 percent) are the top three dips. While salsa steals the spotlight among Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X dippers, Baby Boomers prefer French Onion. Thirty-five percent of consumers integrate their favorite snacks into their meals.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 9, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports Friday and markets in China are closed until Feb 19 for the Lunar New Year. Traders will sort through Thursday's estimates from USDA and Conab and keep watch over South American weather. Traders will also monitor the latest rise in oil prices and tensions in the Middle East. Weather A system that went across the north on Thursday stalled a cold front from Kansas to Michigan for Friday morning. That front and areas a bit to the south will light up with showers throughout the day while light snow flies across the far north. Despite colder temperatures than earlier this week, temperatures behind the cold front are still higher than normal.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 8, 2024 |
USDA Predicts Large Decline in Farm Income USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts that U.S. net cash farm income will decrease by $42.2 billion, or 25.8 percent, to $121.7 billion in 2024 in inflation-adjusted dollars. This is after net farm cash income decreased in 2023 by a forecast of $50.2 billion to $163.9 billion. Net cash farm income is defined as gross cash income minus cash expenses. Net farm income is forecast to decrease by $43.1 billion to $116.1 billion from 2023 to 2024. Net farm income is a broader measure of farm sector profitability that incorporates noncash items, including changes in inventories, economic depreciation, and gross imputed rental income. Cash receipts for farm commodities are projected to fall by $32.2 billion to $485.5 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, production expenses are expected to increase by $7.2 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $455.1 billion in 2024. Also, total commodity insurance indemnity payments are forecasted to fall by $1.5 billion in 2024, and direct government payments to farmers are projected to fall by $2.2 billion from 2023 levels to $10.2 billion in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Federal Judge Vacates Dicamba Registrations A federal judge this week vacated the 2020 dicamba registrations by the Environmental Protection Agency. The ruling in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona leaves farmers without options to use dicamba in the upcoming growing season. Affected products include Bayer’s XtendiMax, BASF’s Engenia and Syngenta’s Tavium. In response, the North Carolina State University Extension says, "Many will panic in response to this news and scramble to switch technology." The court vacated registrations for over-the-top use of dicamba, ruling that the EPA violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act’s public input requirement before its approval. Proponents called the ruling a “vital victory for farmers and the environment.” The Center for Biological Diversity claims, “Endangered butterflies and bee populations will keep tanking if the EPA keeps twisting itself into a pretzel to approve this product just to appease the pesticide industry.” Crop protection companies are assessing the situation to find a path forward for dicamba. *********************************************************************************** House Democrats Draw Lines on Farm Bill Priorities House Agriculture Committee Democrats published a memo Wednesday laying out the principles the next farm bill should include. The principles outline the requests needed to win support of the House Democratic Caucus, however, draw hard lines against proposals from Republicans. The principles are distilled from farm bill priorities submitted by Democratic Members across the Caucus and represent the shared values of House Democrats, including protecting Inflation Reduction Act climate investments and SNAP. Ranking member David Scott of Georgia says, "After months of Republican discord and disorder delaying the passage of the farm bill, the principles document presents an honest assessment of where House Democrats are on farm bill policy." Scott believes the principles offer Republicans an "unambiguous and straightforward path to passing a strong, effective, and bipartisan farm bill." According to the Democratic principles, the farm bill must reduce hunger, strengthen America's farmers, and invest in sustainable agriculture, among other issues. *********************************************************************************** TFI: Tightening of Air Standards will Hamper Fertilizer Production The Fertilizer Institute Wednesday expressed alarm with the Environmental Protection Agency’s lowering of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter. According to TFI, the change will lead to permitting gridlock across much of the country, negatively impacting economic growth and fertilizer production. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "At a time when the need to strengthen the domestic fertilizer industry has been made clear by multiple ongoing global crises and echoed by the Biden Administration, now is not the time to hamstring fertilizer production." The standards have significantly curtailed air pollution nationwide, but a major challenge for industries arises as those levels are progressively lowered. Despite ongoing technological improvements, industries reach a threshold where additional air quality improvements become more and more unfeasible under stricter standards, especially as 84 percent of current PM2.5 emissions originate from non-industrial sources. TFI claims PM2.5 emissions have declined nearly 40 percent over the past twenty years and continue to decrease. *********************************************************************************** Corn Farmers Caution Administration over Electric Vehicles A letter signed by more than 3,400 farmers was sent to President Biden Wednesday expressing concern over the administration's focus on electric vehicles. Specifically, the prioritization of electric vehicles over biofuels, such as corn ethanol, as it works to drastically lower the nation's greenhouse gas emissions. The letter says, "If we are going to address climate change and meet our sustainability goals, we are going to have to take a multi-pronged approach, that includes tapping into higher levels of biofuels." The letter, which drew thousands of signatures in less than a week, comes as the Environmental Protection Agency prepares to release its light- and medium-duty vehicle tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032. A recent survey, sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association shows Americans have concerns on a range of issues involving electric vehicles. In the letter, the farmers said it could take years before EVs become popular with consumers, which means the administration must expand its focus and efforts to address greenhouse gasses with solutions that are available now. *********************************************************************************** USDA Identifies 2024 McGovern-Dole Priority Countries The Department of Agriculture this week identified priority countries for new McGovern-Dole cooperative agreements. The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program is the largest global donor to school feeding efforts. The program provides U.S. agricultural commodities, funding, and technical assistance to reduce hunger, support nutrition, and improve literacy and primary education around the world. The McGovern-Dole Program is also an integral part in advancing U.S. diplomatic interests and strengthening alliances. For Fiscal Year 2024, USDA has identified priority countries as Angola, Bangladesh, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, GuineaBissau, Laos, Malawi, and Rwanda. The priority countries have demonstrated significant need, a national government commitment to school feeding programs, and shared views on global food security, agricultural sustainability, and key international initiatives. Each of the cooperative agreement projects will be approximately five years in duration. When available, the fiscal year 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunity and information on how to apply will be published on Grants.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 8, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Statistics Canada releases December 31 stocks estimates at 8 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report will be out at 11 a.m. with DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A storm system in the Northern Plains will move into Ontario by Thursday night, dragging a cold front through the Midwest that will produce some showers and thunderstorms. Snow continues on the backside of the low across the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies. Breezy winds will accompany the system across the Plains and Midwest. Temperatures behind the front are dropping, but are still warm for February.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 7, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Census Bureau will release the U.S. trade deficit for December at 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, allowing USDA to have export sales data available later Wednesday morning. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to monitor South American weather and may be cautious ahead of Thursday's WASDE report. Weather A system is moving out of the West and into the Northern Plains on Wednesday and that will be bringing a mix of rain and snow to the Northern Plains, increasing Wednesday evening. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will develop farther south as well as some breezy conditions. Temperatures ahead of the system continue to be very warm and record-breaking in some areas of the Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 7, 2024 |
Market Prices, Input Costs, Pushing Expectations Lower Farmer sentiment took a downturn at the start of 2024 as the January Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index fell to a reading of 106, eight points below a month earlier. Compared to year-end, producers had a more negative outlook of their farms' current situation along with a weakened outlook for the future. The Current Conditions Index fell nine points, and the Future Expectations Index dropped seven points, both compared to December. Anticipated lower farm income in 2024 significantly influenced the decline across all indices, evident in the Farm Financial Performance Index registering at 85, 12 points lower than a month earlier. The percentage of producers expecting weaker financial performance rose from 20 percent in December to 31 percent in January, while those expecting incomes to be about the same fell from 63 percent to 53 percent. The combination of high input costs and declining commodity prices generated a weaker financial performance outlook for 2024, according to the survey results. *********************************************************************************** Carbon Alliance Welcomes POET Pipeline Partnership The American Carbon Alliance welcomes last week’s partnership announcement between POET and the Summit Carbon pipeline. POET will connect its biofuel plants to the carbon pipeline, creating new agricultural markets and supporting rural communities—to capture the value of the biogenic CO2 from the bioethanol production process. American Carbon Alliance CEO Tom Buis says, “This partnership will move the carbon capture and sequestration process along, creating a positive ripple effect throughout Midwest communities, for farmers and producers, local economies, and the global economy as a whole.” The partnership strategically expands the carbon opportunity across the Midwest by incorporating POET’s 12 facilities in Iowa and five facilities in South Dakota into the Summit project. The addition will facilitate the capture, transportation, and permanent storage of 4.7 million metric tons of CO2 annually from the 17 POET bioprocessing plants. The American Carbon Alliance seeks to strengthen America's agricultural economy, ensure a future marketplace for American-produced liquid fuel, and improve the environment for all. *********************************************************************************** National Grange Voices Snake River Dam Removal Concerns The National Grange recently penned a letter to lawmakers expressing concerns over proposals to remove dams along the Snake River in Washington state. The letter alleges that dam removals would "totally disrupt an entire rural region of our country that depends upon this infrastructure for clean electrical power, agricultural irrigation, transportation, flood control, recreation, and jobs.” The National Grange believes that any plan to remove any dam in the Columbia/Snake River System must include an equitable and robust economic transition plan. The Grange is a social organization that encourages families to band together to promote the economic and political well-being of the community and agriculture, and includes more than 140,000 members. The letter follows legislation introduced last month regarding the issue by Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican. The Defending Against Manipulative Negotiators Act would prohibit the use of federal funds from being used in breaching or altering the Lower Snake River Dams and prohibit the implementation of the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative. *********************************************************************************** NCC Highlights Chicken Industry’s Efforts to Reduce Food Waste The National Chicken Council recently outlined how chicken producers reduce food waste, recycle byproducts and utilize products that would otherwise be destined for landfills. The comments were in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics. In its comments, the council emphasized several important points and areas for enhancing the National Strategy, including the use of byproducts and rendering, along with automation and transportation improvement efforts. Several current and pending regulatory policies either do or would contribute to food waste in the chicken industry, according to the organization. The first is for the FDA to allow surplus hatchery eggs into the breaking egg market, which would reduce waste and decrease costs. The second is a proposed Salmonella Framework, which is being drafted with the goal of improving food safety –– but is not based on scientific data nor is it associated with any known public health outcomes, according to NCC. *********************************************************************************** Restaurant Industry Sales Forecast to Set $1.1 Trillion Record in 2024 Restaurant sales are forecast to exceed $1.1 trillion this year, marking a new milestone for the industry that will employ over 15.7 million people in the United States by the end of 2024. The National Restaurant Association released its 2024 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report Tuesday. The report finds restaurant operators are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, with nearly eight in ten predicting their sales will increase or hold steady from 2023 levels. However, challenges still exist for the sector. Consumers will notice menu changes more frequently, and it's often the result of increased food costs. In the past year, operators report needing to find new suppliers, removing items from their menus, adjusting portion sizes or substituting lower cost items all in response to elevated food prices. The availability of food items also impacted menu composition, with more than three-quarters of operators saying their restaurant experienced supply delays or shortages of key food or beverage items in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Mobile App Restaurant Orders Remain Popular Following Pandemic Mobile app ordering at quick service restaurants remains popular following the COVID-19 pandemic. USDA’s Economic Research Service released data Tuesday showing consumer spending trends on carryout and delivery from quick-service restaurants by mobile application from December 2019–February 2020 through October–December 2022. In June–August 2020, carryout spending at quick-service restaurants via restaurant-specific apps doubled from pre-pandemic levels, and spending on delivery via third-party apps more than tripled. Third-party apps typically offer food from a variety of restaurants, while the restaurant or establishment operates restaurant-specific apps. App spending on carryout and delivery peaked in March–May 2021, reaching a total of $4.4 billion, with third-party app delivery and restaurant-specific app carryout spending each reaching about $1.6 billion. Most recently, total app spending on both carryout and delivery reached roughly $3.9 billion, where restaurant-specific carryout spending and third-party app delivery spending accounted for $1.6 and $1.4 billion, respectively.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 6, 2024 |
Industry Leader Northey Passes Bill Northey, a long-time agriculture industry figure, and former USDA official in the Trump administration, has died. The 64- year-old was serving as the CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. Northey grew up on an Iowa family farm. He has served as President of the National Corn Growers Association, three terms as the Iowa Agriculture Secretary, and as USDA Farm Production and Conservation undersecretary during the Trump administration. Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, commented, “Today the Iowa farm community lost a giant. Bill Northey was a dear friend and fierce advocate for the family farmer.” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds added, “Bill understood well our responsibility to be good stewards of the land and exemplified that calling throughout his career.” Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff immediately and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Northey’s funeral and interment. *********************************************************************************** USDA Celebrates 10 Years of Climate Hubs This week marks ten years since the Department of Agriculture created regional Climate Hubs. The hubs were established to help agricultural producers and rural communities make climate-informed decisions. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Today, as those risks are increasingly prevalent across the nation and the globe, the need for science-based climate information and assistance is more important than ever." The Climate Hubs are an important piece of USDA's agenda to address climate change, complementing investments of $19.5 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest-ever climate investment, to help producers adopt climate-smart practices. Originally, ten regional locations were established across the United States. In May 2023, an International Climate Hub was added to share best practices, collaborate with international partners and improve the world's ability to mitigate and adapt to climate. Today, the Climate Hubs form a network of more than 120 climate researchers and communicators who work across the USDA and with partners to support climate-informed decisions. *********************************************************************************** FWS Rejects Call to List Wolves in Rocky Mountain States under ESA The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently denied a request to list wolves under the Endangered Species Act in Rocky Mountain states. After an extensive assessment, the Service announced a not warranted finding for two petitions to list gray wolves under the ESA in the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Western United States. Gray wolves are listed under the ESA as endangered in 44 states, threatened in Minnesota, and under state jurisdiction in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and portions of eastern Oregon and Washington. Based on the latest data as of the end of 2022, there were approximately 2,797 wolves distributed across at least 286 packs in seven states in the Western United States. This population size and widespread distribution contribute to the resiliency and redundancy of wolves in this region. Environmental groups are weighing options for what may be next. Erik Molvar of the Western Watersheds Project says, "It is obvious that wolves don’t have adequate regulatory mechanisms to protect them in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, where they are being targeted for extermination by state governments.” *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Below Normal The updated 2024 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. January runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 0.4 million acre-feet, 56 percent of average. Runoff was well-below-average due to much-below-normal temperatures over the whole Missouri River Basin and below-normal precipitation over most of the upper basin. John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "The runoff into the reservoir system was well-below average for January," adding, "This fact in conjunction with the below-average plains and mountain snowpack indicates a below-normal runoff year for the basin.” The 2024 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 18.8-million-acre feet, 73 percent of average. To conserve water in the system, releases from Gavins Point Dam are scheduled to be 13,000 cubic feet per second this winter while still serving the needs of the municipal, industrial and powerplant water intakes along the lower river. *********************************************************************************** Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center Launched The University of Missouri Monday announced the launch of the Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center. The center aims to help farmers move toward a future of sustainable agriculture by leveraging digital technologies and artificial intelligence for increased productivity, sustainability and profitability. A spokesperson for the effort says, “This is the future of farming in Missouri and elsewhere, and people are looking to us as a proven academic leader in this space.” The effort was formed by a partnership between the University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, the MU Extension service, and the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. The center will explore key areas in agriculture, such as crop production, soil health, precision livestock farming, and engineering innovations through research by faculty and students and collaboration with industry partners and agencies. Adoption of any new technology takes time, and the center hopes to build trust and confidence in farmers and other stakeholders by being proactive in its education and outreach efforts. *********************************************************************************** Checkoff Partnership Introduces Hot Chocolate Milk Program in Schools A dairy checkoff partnership is putting hot chocolate milk into the hands of students during a pilot with a leading school foodservice company. National Dairy Council and Chartwells K12, which serves more than two million meals daily at 700 U.S. school districts, have launched the Hot Chocolate Milk program in 58 schools. The pilot, which will run through the end of the school year, features chocolate milk – with toppings such as cinnamon and peppermint – served hot during breakfast and lunch. Lisa Hatch, vice president of business development for NDC's school channel, said the smoothie program's success led to a "what's the next big thing?" discussion between the partners. They focused on hot chocolate, a global market valued at $3.8 billion in 2022 and expected to grow to $5.77 billion by 2030. Schools participating in the pilot program received a Hot Chocolate Milk kit. The kit includes a transport cart with branded panels, an insulated beverage dispenser, a digital thermometer and more.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 6, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will keep an eye on South America's weather forecasts and any updates of soybean harvest or corn planting progress. There are no significant reports scheduled for Tuesday and grain traders may be a bit cautious ahead of Thursday's WASDE report. U.S. earnings season and military actions in the Middle East are two topics also getting traders' attention. Weather A major storm system continues to build in the Southwest on Tuesday, after dumping huge amounts of precipitation over California the last couple of days. East of the Rockies, it is quiet and very warm in anticipation of the coming storm that will move through with several impulses starting Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 5, 2024 |
CattleFax Forecasts Profitability, Herd Expansion Ahead The CattleFax Outlook Seminar at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in Florida shared expert market and weather analytics last week. The smallest beef cow inventory in the last 50 years, coupled with historically strong demand, led to the highest average fed cattle and calf prices in 2023. As reduced cattle numbers and beef production continue over the next three years, leverage and profitability will continue to favor cattle producers. Despite record prices, an expansion will likely be delayed once again. Lingering drought, high input costs, limited labor availability, high interest rates, and market uncertainty all serve as headwinds against growing the cow herd. Cow and bull slaughter is forecast to be 6.5 million head in 2024, down around 800,000 head from 2023. “Though cattle inventories may stay elevated for a few months, they are expected to decline significantly through the second half of 2024,” says Kevin Good of CattleFax. *********************************************************************************** USDA Rule Amends Certain FMMOs The USDA published a final rule that amends the transportation credit balancing fund provisions in the Appalachian and Southeast Federal Milk Marketing Orders. It also establishes distributing plant delivery credits in the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast FMMOs. The final rule is a result of a hearing held February 28-March 2, 2023, in Tennessee. The hearing highlighted a long-standing milk deficit problem in the three southeastern orders and its impact on producers, cooperatives, and handlers serving the markets. The final rule implements a number of proposals to address this chronic issue and makes minor clarifying changes to the provisions based on public comments received. Among some of the changes, the rule updates the components of the mileage rate calculation and increases the maximum assessment rates on Class I Milk. The amendments will be effective for milk marketed on or after March 1, 2024. The final rule was published on February 1, 2024. *********************************************************************************** Soy Exports Add Billions to the U.S. Economy America’s soy complex exports added $39.8 billion to the U.S. economy in marketing year 2022-2023 on a volume of 67.6 million metric tons. The shining star was U.S. soybean meal exports broke records for both volume and value at 13.2 million metric tons and $6.91 billion, respectively. “America’s soy exports in marketing year 2022-2023 were nothing short of extraordinary,” says United Soybean Board Chair Steven Reinhard. “A standout achievement was the record-breaking performance of soybean meal exports, reaching unprecedented volume and value levels.” Increased demand from both Colombia and Ecuador boosted U.S. soybean meal exports by 15 percent and 36 percent, respectively, above their five-year averages. Meanwhile, increased volume and higher prices saw U.S. soybean meal exports increase in value by 39 percent over the last five years. Despite persistent global challenges to international businesses, U.S. whole soybean exports hit 54.2 MMT and kept pace with the previous five-year average. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Crush Rises But Short of Predictions USDA data shows the U.S. soybean crush rose month-to-month but missed expectations. Processors crushed 204 million bushels of soybeans in December, up from 200 million a month earlier. The agency’s report says that’s up from the 187 million bushels processed in December 2022 but is still down from the 206 million forecast before the report went public. Crude oil produced from the crush rose to 2.38 billion pounds, up two percent from November and eight percent from the same month a year earlier. Iowa was by far the biggest crusher of soybeans at approximately 49.3 million bushels, with Illinois second at 25.4 million bushels. The states combined for 37 percent of the soybeans crushed in the U.S. during December. About 51.4 million bushels were crushed in the north and east region, which includes Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Processors in the north-central region crushed 37 million bushels of soybeans. *********************************************************************************** America’s Biggest Landowners The Land Report Research Team issued a report detailing who are America’s largest landowners. The “Land Report 100” shows that as of 2021, America’s largest landowner is named Red Emmerson. He and his family own just over 2.4 million acres in California, Oregon, and Washington through their timber products company, Sierra Pacific Industries. They surpassed Liberty Media Chairman John Malone’s 2.2 million acres. CNN founder Ted Turner is America’s third biggest landowner with two million acres in the Southeast, Great Plains, and across the West. The Lane Report 100 research team analyzes transactions and scours records to determine who are America’s leading landowners. That’s how they broke the news in 2020 that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was America’s largest farmland owner with more than 260,000 acres. They used the same methodology to identify the founder of the Shanda Investment Group as the owner of almost 200,000 acres of Oregon timberland this year. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Lovers Month is Back The American Lamb Board kicked off Lamb Lover’s Month in February with an exciting campaign titled “Show Us Your Chops.” It invites consumers to enjoy savory lamb chops at their favorite restaurants or cook their favorite recipes at home. The promotion features rack and loin chop recipes to help consumers create a romantic date night or a special dinner with friends or family featuring delicious American lamb. Consumers are invited to share their photos of their lamb chops at a restaurant or at home on the ALB consumer website or social media with the hashtag #showusyourchops. The contest will be promoted through social media advertising and sponsored blogger content throughout February. “While Lamb Lovers Month has become a tradition for ALB, it’s also a very effective promotion for reaching new consumers with recipes and information about American lamb to expand usage beyond the traditional holidays,” says Jeff Ebert, ALB chairman.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 5, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, NASDA and Other Acronyms 1. WASDE Thursday: USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m. Our preview of the report will hit Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the release of analyst estimates. On Thursday we will have WASDE numbers immediately after the reports are released, followed by updates with commentary and market reactions throughout the morning 2. Warmth hangs in: The unseasonably warm weather will continue to eat away at the snowpack in the Midwest through this week. Temperatures will be well-above normal east of the Rockies and cooler in the West through next weekend. Another storm will move out of the West and into the Plains during the middle of the week with another loading up in the Southwest for late week and weekend. Models differ on the development and impact of these two storms, so stay tuned through the week. Y 3. State ag conversations: We'll cover the annual meeting of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, happening in Washington, D.C. This meeting has become the place where potential ag policies come to gather steam. The farm bill, labor and immigration issues and food safety are all on the agenda. 4. Eyes on South America: It's become a bit repetitive, but with grains markets softening we continue to watch how the South American crops are developing. Updates on that will possibly supersede the WASDE numbers in terms of market influence. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, the S & P Services PMI report is at 8:45 a.m. Weekly grain inspections are out at 10 a.m.; at 2 p.m. the Dairy Products report hits. On Wednesday we'll watch for U.S. trade deficit numbers at 7:30 a.m., while at 10 a.m. the EAI's weekly petroleum reports are out, including ethanol and gasoline statistics. At 2 p.m. both the Consumer Credit report and broiler hatchery reports are released. On Thursday, both the U.S. export sales report and Initial Jobless Claims will be out at 7:30 a.m. Wholesale Inventories reports are at 9 a.m., the weekly Economic Index will be out at 10:30 a.m., and of course the February WASDE hits at 11 a.m. Friday sees with the CPI seasonal factor revisions report out at 7:30 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 5, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will pay close attention to South American weather and news from the Middle East. USDA's weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST Monday. Traders will also look forward to USDA's next WASDE report, due out Thursday at 11 a.m. Weather A storm system from the weekend continues to spin around Florida, but areas east of the Rockies will be quiet on Monday. All the action is out in the West where another storm system is pushing through the region. Eventually, that storm will move through the country this week with multiple rounds of precipitation. It continues to be very warm ahead of these storms.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 2, 2024 |
New Poll Suggests Ag Economic Downturn A new poll of agricultural economists by Farm Journal shows most expect lower commodity prices, along with the outlook for higher costs, to weigh on the agriculture industry in 2024. Farm Journal has partnered with the University of Missouri to create the Ag Economists' Monthly Monitor. University of Missouri agricultural economist Scott Brown says, “If we continue down the path that we started with the January estimates, perhaps we're telling 2024 to be a less positive story than we would have just a few months ago.” Ag economists' forecast for prices of all crops and livestock shifted lower compared to the December survey, signaling net farm income could also fall more than originally anticipated. The January survey found economists' views on net farm income also took a turn, with the survey average falling to $135 billion for 2024. However, ag economists think relatively strong balance sheets and working capital could provide a cushion for 2024 with no major concerns about immediate farm solvency issues. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Shows Cattle Inventory Declines USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service this week released the Cattle report showing a two percent decline in U.S. cattle inventory. The report shows 87.2 million head of cattle and calves on U.S. farms as of January 1, 2024. Of the 87.2 million head inventory, all cows and heifers that have calved totaled 37.6 million. There are 28.2 million beef cows in the United States, down two percent from last year. The number of milk cows in the United States decreased slightly to 9.36 million. The U.S. calf crop was estimated at 33.6 million head, down two percent from 2022. All cattle on feed were at 14.4 million head, up two percent from 2023. To obtain an accurate measurement of the current state of the U.S. cattle industry, NASS surveyed approximately 36,300 operators across the nation during the first half of January. Surveyed producers were asked to report their cattle inventories as of January 1, 2024, and calf crop for the entire year of 2023. *********************************************************************************** January 1 Sheep and Lambs Inventory Down 2% USDA’s Sheep and Goat’s report released this week shows all sheep and lambs inventory in the United States on January 1, 2024 totaled 5.03 million head, down two percent from last year. Breeding sheep inventory at 3.67 million head on January 1, 2024, decreased two percent from 3.74 million head in 2023. Ewes one-year-old and older, at 2.87 million head, were two percent below last year. Market sheep and lambs totaled 1.36 million head, down two percent, and market lambs comprised 94 percent of the total market inventory. Market sheep comprised the remaining six percent of the total market inventory. The 2023 lamb crop of 3.03 million head was down two percent from 2022, and the 2023 lambing rate was 103 lambs per 100 ewes one-year-old and older on January 1, 2023, down two percent from 2022. All goats and kids inventory in the United States on January 1, 2024, totaled 2.47 million head, down two percent from 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Resource to Help Poultry Contracting and Tournaments Compliance USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service has posted a set of Frequently Asked Questions on its website to provide a resource to assist stakeholders in complying with the Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule by February 12, 2024. The FAQ is posted on the Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments webpage. USDA published the final rule in the Federal Register November 28, 2023. The final rule, published under the Packers & Stockyards Act, requires Live Poultry Dealers – typically large processing companies – to provide poultry growers with whom they contract to raise birds key information about terms of their agreements. The final rule also requires additional disclosures by those engaged in the production of broilers who use poultry grower ranking systems to determine settlement payments for broiler growers. More information about the final rule is available on the Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments webpage. *********************************************************************************** AVMA Plans Annual Legislative Fly-in Veterinarians will visit Capitol Hill next Tuesday to discuss legislative priorities with lawmakers. As part of the American Veterinary Medical Association's annual legislative fly-in, advocates will urge congressional offices to support and cosponsor the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act. AVMA President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "We need to do more to attract and retain veterinarians in rural and underserved areas, and the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act will go a long way to address those needs," The AVMA-endorsed Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would end federal taxation on the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program. This action would enable more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $25,000 a year for student loan repayment in exchange for service in Department of Agriculture-designated Veterinarian Shortage Situations. AVMA is also seeking support for the Healthy Dog Importation Act within the next Farm Bill, which the group says would decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from imported dogs. *********************************************************************************** TSCRA Launches Foundation to Support Land and Livestock Stewards Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the oldest and largest livestock association in the Southwest, Thursday announced the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation. The foundation is a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to develop future land and livestock stewards and leaders. The TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation will support high school and college programs, internships, young professional development opportunities and grant programs. TSCRA President and Foundation Chairman Arthur Uhl says, “Developing and supporting future land and livestock stewards and leaders is critical to our nation’s future.” Uhl adds, “We must develop and equip a diverse base of future leaders to address modern challenges within the industry and ensure ranching, wildlife management, and land stewardship thrives and continues to benefit and provide for our communities.” Anyone wishing to support the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation is encouraged to visit tscra.org/ to make a tax-deductible donation. TSCRA has more than 28,000 individuals and businesses as members that contribute to beef production and stewardship of natural resources throughout the Southwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 2, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for January will be released at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday. U.S. factory orders for December and the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for January follow at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather and events in the Middle East as the U.S. is expected to retaliate against pro-Iranian targets. Weather Warm temperatures continue to be in place across most of the country and clouds in western Pennsylvania mean an end to winter from our favorite rodent meteorologist. Still, a strong storm in the West will move into the Southern Plains later Friday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms. The precipitation from this storm will spread through much of the country outside of the Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 1, 2024 |
NCBA Releases 2024 Policy Priorities The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Executive Committee approved the organization’s policy priorities at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. This year’s priorities focus on advocating for the reauthorization of the Farm Bill, protecting cattle producers from federal regulatory overreach, and defending the U.S. cattle industry against external attacks. NCBA President-Elect Mark Eisele says, "NCBA will continue pushing for passage of a Farm Bill that includes key animal health and voluntary conservation provisions, as well as hold the line against all federal policies that could damage the livelihoods of U.S. cattle producers." Other priorities include the fight against misguided Endangered Species Act rules and any expansion of bureaucratic red tape under the National Environmental Policy Act. Additionally, NCBA wants to preserve family farms and ranches for future generations by advocating for essential tax relief for cattle producers. Learn more and find the full list of 2024 policy priorities at ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Trade Caucus Presents Opportunities for Agriculture Lawmakers in the House of Representative’s Wednesday launched a new Agricultural Trade Caucus. The effort seeks to advance and promote policies vital to U.S. agriculture, including boosting agricultural exports, facilitating food and agriculture trade, and knocking down unnecessary trade barriers. The caucus includes Republicans Adrain Smith of Nebraska, Dusty Johnson of South Dakota, and California Democrats Jim Costa and Jimmy Pennetta. In the announcement, Penetta says, “Congress needs to be more active in promoting trade agreements that will keep American producers competitive and empower them to feed the world.” The new caucus will work to solidify support for trade policies that benefit farmers, ranchers, producers, rural communities, and all those along our food and agricultural supply chains. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, “AFBF appreciates House lawmakers for coming together in a bipartisan manner to form an agriculture trade caucus,” adding, “We have a real opportunity to showcase American agriculture on the global stage.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases 2022 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary The Department of Agriculture this week published the 2022 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary. The summary shows that over 99 percent of the samples tested had pesticide residues below benchmark levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency. The tests were conducted on 10,665 samples from 23 commodities, including fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, dairy, nuts, and grains. The summary is a national pesticide residue monitoring program that tests various domestic and imported foods, with a strong focus on foods consumed by infants and children. USDA and EPA work together each year to identify foods to be tested on a rotating basis, and USDA partners with cooperating state agencies to collect and analyze pesticide residue levels on the selected food commodities. EPA relies on the data to conduct dietary risk assessments and to ensure that any pesticide residues in foods remain at or below levels that EPA has set. *********************************************************************************** LFP Payments Concentrated in Western and Central US A new analysis from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows Livestock Forage Disaster Program are concentrated in the Western and Central United States. USDA found that between 2008 and 2022, the program disbursed more than $12 billion of payments to livestock producers. Counties with the largest aggregate payments per 1,000 head of livestock are concentrated primarily in the Western, Southern, and Central United States, where drought conditions are generally more severe and common. About 20 percent of counties in the continental United States received no LFP payments between 2008 and 2022. These counties are primarily located in urban regions and the relatively more humid Eastern United States. USDA provides payments to livestock producers whose pastures and rangeland are impacted by drought through the Livestock Forage Disaster Program. The program was established by the 2008 Farm Bill and uses eligibility criteria based on county-level drought conditions reported by the U.S. Drought Monitor. *********************************************************************************** Foremost Farms Joins Vanguard Renewables Strategic Alliance Vanguard Renewables announced the addition of Foremost Farms USA to the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance this week. The strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in pursuing sustainable organic waste reduction and renewable energy generation within the dairy industry, according to Vanguard Renewables CEO Neil Smith. Speaking of Foremost Farms, Smith says, "Their members' commitment to sustainable farming practices is helping to create a more sustainable future for the dairy industry, and their desire to work with and learn from like-minded organizations to explore solutions for food waste aligns with our mission." By joining the alliance, Foremost Farms aims to further strengthen its dedication to sustainable practices and support generational dairy farmers across America. The Farm Powered Strategic Alliance is described as a collaborative initiative focused on driving systemic change, dedicated to promoting sustainable organic waste reduction. Vanguard Renewables partners with food and beverage manufacturers to recycle their inedible food waste via Farm Powered anaerobic digestion, which converts organic waste into renewable natural gas. *********************************************************************************** Americans to Eat 1.45 Billion Chicken Wings for the Big Game With the second biggest eating day of the year after Thanksgiving upon us, there’s no hotter time for chicken wings. According to the National Chicken Council’s 2024 Wing Report, Americans will devour 1.45 billion wings while watching Kansas City and San Francisco battle for the championship trophy. National Chicken Council spokesperson Tom Super says, “Sure, you can have your chips, your guacamole, your pizza. But when it comes to menus next Sunday, wings rule the roost.” This year’s projection is flat compared to 2023, with USDA reporting chicken production levels are slightly down from last year and wing stocks in cold storage down 13 percent in November compared to the year prior. This could explain the higher demand and, thus, the higher wholesale prices we see on wings. At the retail level, fresh chicken wing prices are down approximately five percent, and frozen wing prices are down 11 percent compared to January 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 1, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. fourth-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The ISM index of U.S. manufacturing is at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. NASS's Fats and Oils report is set for 2 p.m. Weather A major winter storm continues to push into California and spread through the western states on Thursday, a significant feature to watch as it moves into the Plains for Friday. But areas east of the Rockies continue to be overall warm and quiet ahead of the storm.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 31, 2024 |
POET and Summit Announce Partnership POET Ethanol and Summit Carbon Solutions announced a partnership connecting the world’s largest biofuel producer with the world’s largest carbon capture and storage project. The collaboration will capture the value of biogenic CO2 from the bioethanol production process. The partnership strategically expands the carbon opportunity across the Midwest by incorporating POET’s 12 Iowa facilities and five South Dakota facilities into the Summit project. “As the world seeks low-carbon energy solutions, carbon capture ensures that ag-based biofuels will remain competitive for decades,” says POET CEO Jeff Broin. “This is a tremendous opportunity to bring value to farmers, bioethanol producers, and rural communities in participating states.” Broin also believes this collaboration will unleash even more opportunities for ag and bioprocessing in the future. “This initiative is aimed at enhancing the financial profitability of our farmers and ensuring a more prosperous future for rural communities,” says Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions. *********************************************************************************** New California Biofuels Plant Impacts Soybean Market The increasing use of biofuels should generate bullish vibes for agricultural commodities in the future. E-T-F Trends says plans for a biofuel plant in California could spur more investors to take a closer look at agricultural commodities. California has one of the more ambitious plans when it comes to reducing carbon emissions. Given this, the use of a biofuel plant could spur other states to follow suit. In turn, that would increase demand for agricultural commodities like soybeans and corn. A Bloomberg report confirmed that soybean oil prices in Chicago rose amid speculation that the new biofuels plant in California got the green light to begin operations in a few weeks. The plant is a former crude oil refinery that will use waste oils, fats, greases, and vegetable oils to produce an initial 800 million gallons of renewable fuels a year, including renewable diesel, renewable gasoline, and sustainable aviation fuel. *********************************************************************************** 100 Billion Miles on E15 Growth Energy released data showing American drivers recently surpassed the massive milestone of 100 billion miles driven on affordable, homegrown E15 fuel. The 15 percent biofuel blend saves drivers an average of 15 cents a gallon at the pump. In some states, amid higher fuel costs last summer, drivers saw E15 savings climb as high as 60 cents per gallon. “At Growth Energy, we’re proud to lead the charge on American-made, plant-based fuels,” says CEO Emily Skor. “Homegrown biofuels deliver value for consumers at the pump, value for American agriculture and rural communities, and value for our nation’s climate goals.” She also says they’re proud of the 100 billion miles driven on E15 and excited that consumers have access to an affordable, Earth-friendly option to fuel their travels. “There aren’t many products on the market today that allow consumers to save money and lower carbon emissions like E15,” Skor adds. *********************************************************************************** Producers Can Make USDA Loan Payments Online The USDA says most farm loan borrowers will be able to make loan payments online through the Pay My Loan feature on farmers.gov in early February. Pay My Loan is part of a broader effort by the Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, especially for producers who may have limited time during the planting or harvest seasons to visit a local FSA office. “Farmers and ranchers have responded to some difficult challenges over the last few years, and their time is a precious commodity,” says USDA Deputy Undersecretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “Having the option to conduct business online is essential, and the Pay My Loan feature allows customers to take care of business seamlessly.” On average, local USDA centers process more than 225,000 farm loan payments each year. Pay My Loan gives most borrowers an online repayment option and relieves them from traveling to a local Service Center. *********************************************************************************** December Soy Crush Continues Streak The U.S. soybean crush likely hit 6.185 million short tons in December 2023, or 296.1 million bushels, the most for any month in recorded history. Analysts surveyed ahead of the monthly USDA report noted it would be the third straight month that the national soybean crush topped 200 million bushels as the expanding U.S. soy processing industry has been crushing larger and larger numbers of beans to meet the rising demand for vegetable oil from biofuel makers. If that December estimate gets realized, it would be up from the 200.1 million bushels crushed in November and up 10 percent from the December 2022 crush of 187.4 million bushels. But Successful Farming says last month’s estimated average daily crush rate of 6.649 million bushels would be down from a record daily pace of 6.669 million set in November, which has one less day. Crush estimates range from 203.8 million to 207 million bushels. *********************************************************************************** Soybeans and Wheat Export Inspections Decline Soybean and wheat inspections for exports declined in the week ending on January 25, while the corn total improved. USDA data says soybean inspections last week reached 889,717 metric tons, down from 1.18 million a week earlier. That’s also down from the 1.93 million tons examined during the same week last year. Wheat assessments came in at 264,666 tons, down from 315,186 tons the prior week, and well below the 446,000 tons inspected during the same period last year. Corn inspections rose to almost 902,000 tons from 746,900 the week before and 545,000 tons at the same time in 2023. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 15.6 million metric tons of corn for export, up from 12.1 million last year. Soybean inspections now stand at 27.7 million tons, down from 36.2 million last year. Wheat inspections are at 11 million tons, down from 13.2 million last year.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 31, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Labor Department's employment cost index for the fourth quarter is set for 8:30 a.m. CST. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve's rate announcement is at 1 p.m. and is expected to keep rates unchanged, but traders will be listening to any Fed comments. USDA's report of U.S. January 1 cattle inventory at 2 p.m. will get more attention than usual with a chance inventory will fall below the 2014 low of 88.5 million head, possibly the lowest number of U.S. cattle since 1952. Weather A large trough and atmospheric river event is starting to move onto the West Coast Wednesday morning. The event will be a big one that causes a storm system for Friday through the weekend farther east. Until then, it continues to be quiet and warm for much of the country with some places breaking record highs.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 30, 2024 |
Strengthening U.S. Specialty Crops Through Investments Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA investments designed to support the U.S. specialty crops industry. The launch of the Assisting Specialty Crop Exports Initiative will provide $65 million for projects that will help the specialty crop sector increase global exports and expand access to new markets. USDA also announced $72.9 million in grant funding available to support the specialty crops industry through the Specialty Crop Grant Program. The program will fund innovative projects designed to bolster the competitiveness of the expanding specialty crops sector. Specialty crop exports totaled $24.6 billion in fiscal year 2023 and represented 13.8 percent of total U.S. agricultural exports. “Specialty crop producers feed our nation and the world with nutritious fruits, nuts, and vegetables, and they supply our communities with horticulture products,” Vilsack says. “Yet they have unique challenges and opportunities to competing in the domestic market and several barriers preventing their products from entering foreign markets.” *********************************************************************************** Hawaii Producers Hit Hard by Wildfires and High Winds The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service estimates that Hawaiian producers incurred $23.1 million in economic loss and damages from wildfires and high winds in August 2023. Those losses include the reduction of agricultural sales due to damages to markets or reduced customers, reduced agritourism income between August and December, livestock deaths, damaged or destroyed crops, and property damages. Producers estimate they lost $5.2 million in sales revenue, lost $3.9 million in agritourism revenue, lost $75,000 worth of livestock, suffered $5.4 million in crop damages, and $8.5 million in property damage. Producers reported that 7,850 acres of pasture were damaged by the wildfires and high winds. Livestock deaths included cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, honeybee colonies, horses, and alpacas. Producers reported damage to floriculture and vegetable crops, some bananas, coffee, and other fruit crops. The $8.5 million in property damage included buildings, vehicles, irrigation equipment, farm machinery, fences, and other structures like water tanks. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Backs American Sugar Producers As part of the policy resolutions set during their recent national convention, the American Farm Bureau continued support for a no-cost sugar policy. “We appreciate Farm Bureau’s continued support of our no-cost policy,” says Cassie Bladow (BLAY-dough), chairwoman of the American Sugar Alliance. “We appreciate having AFBF as a strong partner as we advocate for America’s sugar producers in the next farm bill.” Farm Bureau’s policy resolution advocates for a program that safeguards the interests of domestic sugar producers and supports critical pillars in the sugar policy, including a program to protect the interests of domestic sugar producers. They’re also in favor of legislation that includes provisions that ensure a strong and economically viable domestic sugar policy. They also support a program that meets our trade commitments and ensures a fair playing field for American producers. As the largest farm group, AFBF has consistently supported sugar policy in the farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Biomass Diesel Production Grew 25 Percent Last Year Clean Fuels Alliance welcomed the Environmental Protection Agency’s release of public data for the Renewable Fuel Standard. That data shows U.S. production of biomass-based diesel - including biodiesel, renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and heating oil – reached four billion gallons in 2023. Both domestic production and use of advanced biomass-based diesel grew by one billion gallons in 2023 compared to the prior year. “The clean fuels industry achieved what EPA said couldn’t be done by contributing to the growth of advanced biodiesel, renewable diesel, SAF, and heating oil from sustainably sourced feedstocks,” says Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for Clean Fuels. “Our industry, including producers, oilseed processors, fuel distributors, and marketers, has made significant investments to make clean fuels available to more consumers and rapidly decarbonize heavy-duty transportation fuels, including for aviation and marine markets.” He also says that EPA’s data demonstrates the projected sustainable growth is being achieved. *********************************************************************************** Growing Future Leaders on GIVE FFA Day Interested people are invited to support the FFA and agricultural education through Give FFA Day on Thursday, February 22. For the eighth straight year, funds raised support programs on local, state, and national levels. During the 24 hours of giving, supporters can donate to the National FFA and the state FFA associations of their choice. In February, the organization will celebrate FFA, advisors, and members as part of National FFA Week, which includes giving back during Give FFA Day. For over 90 years, the National FFA Organization has strived to make a difference in students’ lives. Donations help FFA grow the next generation of leaders. Through FFA, members can find their path to success. With almost a million members, there is a need for sustained funding to provide valuable programs, events, skills training, and more. “FFA has been instrumental in growing my skills,” says Lauren Thornhill, an Ohio state FFA officer. *********************************************************************************** Don’t Fumble Your Super Bowl Party Safely serving friends and family during the big game is a win. The USDA says don’t fumble Super Bowl Sunday on February 11. As football fans gather to watch the big game, they’ll enjoy many of their favorite foods. Whether you order delivery or are preparing and serving food to guests, the Food Safety and Inspection Service has some gameday plans to keep your Super Bowl celebration from getting intercepted by foodborne illness. Among their many food safety tips, FSIS says if you order takeout before the game, make sure someone is there to get to the food in a timely manner. Make sure to get any uneaten food into the refrigerator as quickly as possible. Perishable foods that have been sitting out at room temperature must be eaten within two hours of being cooked. “Food safety must remain a top priority,” says USDA Undersecretary for Food Safety Dr. Emilio Esteban.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 30, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders remain interested in South American weather with hot temperatures expected to stress Argentina's corn and soybean crops this week. A report on U.S. consumer confidence will be out at 9 a.m. and a two-day Federal Reserve meeting begins. The federal funds rate target is expected to remain unchanged at Wednesday's 1 p.m. announcement. Weather A small clipper system is moving through the eastern half of the Midwest with a band of mixed rain and snow on Tuesday that will get into the Southeast Tuesday night into Wednesday. Mostly light accumulations are expected outside of the higher elevations. It continues to be quite warm as the country awaits the arrival of a large trough in the West by Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 29, 2024 |
Food Price Inflation Subsided in 2023 USDA’s Economic Research Service says food-at-home prices increased by five percent in 2023, much lower than the growth rate in 2022 of 11 percent. However, that was still double the historical annual average growth rate from 2003 to 2022, which was 2.5 percent. All product categories grew more slowly in 2023 than they did compared to 2022. Food price growth slowed last year as economy-wide inflationary pressures, supply chain issues, and wholesale food prices eased from 2022. In 2023, prices for fats and oils grew the fastest at nine percent. Sugars and sweets are 8.7 percent, and cereals and bakery products rose 8.4 percent. Pork prices dropped 1.2 percent in 2023l. Prices for several categories grew more slowly than their historical averages, including beef and veal at 3.6 percent, eggs 1.4 percent, fresh vegetables at less than one percent. Fresh fruits and seafood grew 0.7 percent and 0.3 percent, respectively. ********************************************************************************** Shielding Agriculture from Cyber Attacks Two senators introduced legislation intended to boost the agricultural industry’s resilience against cyber attacks. The bipartisan measure from Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) is backed by a number of agricultural groups. If passed, the bill would shield America’s supply chain from technological attacks. “America’s adversaries are looking for any advantage they can use against us, including targeting critical industries like agriculture,” Cotton says. The bill would require the USDA to conduct a twice-yearly study on cybersecurity threats to the agriculture industry. Courthouse News Service says the review would include analyzing existing threats, the potential impacts of a cyberattack on the safety and availability of food products, and the government’s ability to respond to an attack. USDA would also have to conduct an interagency “cross-sector crisis simulation exercise that mocks up a food-related national emergency. These exercises would help identify gaps in the government’s readiness to respond to such emergencies. *********************************************************************************** USDA Deputy Secretary Touring Land-Grant Universities USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small is continuing a multi-week tour throughout the country’s land-grant universities. During her tour, the Deputy is visiting campuses in at least seven states to highlight how the agency is working with those universities to advance rural prosperity, climate-smart practices, competition, and sustainability. USDA is investing new funding for education and training, advancing cutting edge research, and bolstering economic development to build a food and agriculture food system that’s climate-smart, sustainable, and equitable. “Investments in the next generation of agriculture will benefit people in every sector of ag, food, and forestry,” says Torres Small. “At USDA, we’re committed to the future of our students and delivering real-life, applicable solutions to decades old problems like bringing broadband internet to communities around the country.” USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture has provided more than $5 billion in support of land-grant university campuses since fiscal year 2021. *********************************************************************************** Britain Pauses Trade Talks Over Agriculture Britain has halted negotiations on a potential free trade deal with Canada because of dissatisfaction by both sides over a lack of access to each other’s agricultural markets. Reuters says the talks first launched in March 2022. Canadian negotiators say they’re disappointed that the UK put a pause on the negotiations, noting that Britain’s decision to keep barriers up for Canada’s agricultural market access is what’s stalling the negotiations. Canada’s farmers are complaining that they’ve been all but shut out of Britain’s beef market because of regulations banning the use of artificial hormones. A UK spokesperson posted on Twitter (X) that they reserve the right to call a pause on negotiations with any country if we don’t think progress is getting made. Before Britain made its exit from the European Union trading sphere at the end of 2020, Canada rolled over existing trade arrangements to ensure that free trade could continue. *********************************************************************************** CA Ranchers Watching Wolves Attack Cattle Herds Ranchers in California who see wolves attacking their cattle can only watch, unlike other states where wolves can be shot for it. Meantime, a California state fund set aside to compensate ranchers for their losses is quickly running out of money. “Not only can you not kill a wolf for attacking and killing one of your calves, but you also can’t injure it in any way,” says Kirk Wilbur, vice president of government affairs for the California Cattlemen’s Association. Cowboy State Daily says that’s the opposite of the policy in Wyoming, where wolves can be shot at any time. Ten years ago, Wolves began making their way from Oregon into California, and the northern part of the state now has over 40 established wolf packs. California put a $3 million compensation package in place during 2021, but it’s now running low on money. The current 102 applications will deplete the remaining funds. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Releases 2023 Annual Report The American Lamb Board released its fiscal year 2023 Annual Report to share programs and success stories with mandatory lamb checkoff stakeholders over the last year. The American lamb industry saw many successes during 2023, including an overall increase in demand for lamb nationwide. However, it comes at a critical point when U.S. flock numbers are declining. Many ALB programs focus on increasing demand for American lamb, but industry education and research are also at the forefront of the board’s work. Among the 2023 highlights in the report is a Sustainability Spotlight, where growers can find information about the Climate Smart Grant, a new Sustainability Director, a landmark environmental footprint study, and much more. There are promotional highlights featuring a growing food blogger network, cooking classes, events, and retail promotions. Looking ahead to the rest of 2024, the board is working on new industry workshops, promotions, educational opportunities, and research projects.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 29, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Cattle Chats and Flooded Flats 1. Cattle convenings: This week marks the 2024 cattle industry CattleCon in Orlando. Watch for event news from DTN Senior Livestock Editor Jennifer Carrico. If you're in town and see her, buy her a cup of coffee for us. She's earning it. 2. From freeze to flood: Weather is expected to continue to warm up across the country this week. That sets up flooding conditions in areas where heavy snow melt occurs where creeks and rivers are still ice covered. There are already weekend flood warnings in areas of Illinois, others may be added into the week. 3. Immigration breakdown: Attend any ag-related meeting and the subject of farm labor shortages and immigration issues are likely on the agenda. With late-week rumblings of presidential politics throwing roadblocks in pending immigration legislation, we'll watch through the week to see if any significant policies bust through. 4. Market happenings: In the grains, attention will be on rains in Argentina and parts of Brazil, as solid yield potential in the Southern Hemisphere pulls down on soybean futures charts. 5. Economic reports to watch: First ag-related report of the week is Monday's 10 a.m. release of U.S. Grain Inspections. Tuesday starts with the 8 a.m. filing of the Case and Shiller Home Price Index. At 9 a.m. the lates Job Openings and Consumer Confidence Index numbers hit. Wednesday, ADP releases its latest employment figures at 7:15 a.m.; at 1 p.m. we'll get the Federal Reserve Interest rate decision. At 2 p.m. there are several releases, including the Broiler Hatchery report and the Bi-Annual Cattle Report, which will show inventory and value of cattle and calves. Also included are statistics on cattle on feed and grazing on small grain pasture, as well as calf crop data. Thursday starts with a 7:30 a.m. release of Initial Jobless Claims and the U.S. Grain Weekly Export Sales report. At 8:45 a.m. the U.S. Manufacturing PMI will be released. The week closes with Friday's 7:30 a.m. release of U.S. Nonfarm payroll data, U.S. Unemployment Rate and U.S. Hourly Wages. At 9 a.m. Factory Orders reports will be released.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 29, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts in South America and events in the Middle East. USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. is the only significant report of the day. Weather It's a rather quiet day Monday as a ridge dominates the majority of the continent. Some showers will drop down into the Great Lakes areas tonight into Tuesday with a small disturbance. The ridge will also mean warm temperatures again, with the highest anomalies across the far north into Canada.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 26, 2024 |
Cold Blast Drops Ethanol Production to Three-Year Low A blast of cold weather in the Corn Belt sent ethanol production down 22 percent last week to its lowest point in three years. Bloomberg says America’s output of the corn-based biofuel missed all its survey estimates while stockpiles hit the highest level since March. The Energy Information Administration says the rise in stockpiles was the eighth straight week of increases. Ethanol production dropped to 18,000 barrels a day during the week ending on January 19, down from 1.054 million barrels during the previous week and the lowest level since the seven days ending on February 19, 2021. The Midwest, which produces the most ethanol in the country, had production fall to 766,000 barrels a day, a significant drop from 1.001 million a week earlier. The EIA says Rocky Mountain production declined, East Coast production was unchanged, and Gulf Coast production rose by 21,000 barrels a day. Inventories reached 25.815 million barrels. *********************************************************************************** Animal ID That Works for All Producers The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association reiterates its call to strengthen and establish a national animal identification system that works for and is accountable to all producers. There should be no private control of data or access to the data without the prior approval of the listed owner of the cattle at the time of application for the ID tags. All official USDA tag information should be held in state animal health databases and shared with federal health officials only as needed. USCA also insists that under no circumstances should a national cattlemen’s association coordinate or control producer data. Producers should also never be responsible for more than the cost of the tags. “USCA supports a voluntary national animal identification program and opposes establishing a national mandate,” says USCA President Justin Tupper. “Our members believe that each individual producer knows what’s best for their herd as it relates to animal husbandry practices.” *********************************************************************************** Ongoing Preparations for the 57th World Ag Expo The “Best Farm Show on Dirt” is coming up quickly. The International Agri-Center is preparing to host the 57th annual World Ag Expo in Tulare, California, February 13-15. The World Ag Expo welcomes attendees and exhibitors from around the world and provides a platform for networking, education, and business. Last year, the show saw more than 108,000 attendees from 49 states and 56 countries. Over 1,200 exhibitors shared 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space in 2023. Show officials note that 97 percent of exhibit spaces were sold as of January 19 and domestic and international ticket sales are trending at record levels. “There is so much innovation to see on the show grounds,” says Stan Creelman, 2024 World Ag Expo Show Chair, “from large manufacturers to small innovators and every solution in between.” Organizers predict 2024 may be a record year for the show. For more information, go to worldagexpo.org. *********************************************************************************** New Rule Will Increase Efficiency in Rail Systems The Surface Transportation Board announced it has adopted a final rule to amend its emergency service regulations to provide immediate relief for shippers in certain situations. The rule says the Board may act on its own to direct emergency rail service and establish an accelerated process for acute service emergencies. The Board has heard from a broad range of stakeholders about inconsistent and unreliable rail service and issued two orders mandating service in urgent situations. Stakeholder concerns have included railroad crew shortages and inability to move trains, tight car supplies and unfilled orders, delays in transportation for carload and bulk traffic, and ineffective customer assistance. “This approach to managing service emergencies is a long-needed reform that will help level the playing field for shippers where rail service failures have caused an acute threat to their business, or when emergency relief is necessary to protect the public, says Board Chair Martin Oberman. *********************************************************************************** Deadline for NCGA Scholarship Applications Approaching The National Corn Growers Association is committed to the future of agriculture. To support the next generation of leaders in American agriculture, NCGA has partnered with BASF to offer scholarships to students enrolled in qualifying institutions. NCGA is proud to offer and support three scholarship programs for three distinct audiences. The Technical School/Community College Scholarship offers $1,000 scholarships to five students pursuing a degree at one of these institutions. The William Berg Academic Excellence Scholarship Program will offer five $1,500 scholarships to undergraduate students pursuing degrees in any field. The Graduate Student Scholarship Program offers two $2,500 scholarships to graduate students whose area of study will benefit the corn industry. “Empowering future leaders in ag is vital for fostering a resilient rural economy in the coming years,” says NCGA Membership and Consumer Engagement Action Team Chair Dan Nerud. “NCGA remains committed to providing opportunities for students driven to serve farm families.” *********************************************************************************** December Milk Production Drops Slightly The 24 states that produce the most milk totaled 18.1 billion pounds in December, down 0.1 percent from December 2022. November’s revised production, at 17.3 billion pounds, was 0.6 percent below November 2022. The November revision represented a decrease of 14 million pounds or less than 0.1 percent from November’s preliminary production estimate. The USDA says production per cow in those states averaged 2,030 pounds for December, one pound above December 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 states was 8.9 million head, 17,000 head below December 2022 but unchanged from November 2023. U.S. milk production during the October-December quarter totaled 55.6 billion pounds, down 0.6 percent from the same quarter in 2023. The average number of milk cows in the U.S. during the quarter was 9.36 million head, 16,000 head less than the July-September quarter, and 44,000 head less than the same time during the prior year.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 26, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets Traders will be watching the weather for South America, and any new flash export sales at 8 a.m. CST. At 7:30 a.m. CST, Personal Spending and Personal Income data will be released, and at 9 a.m. we'll see Pending Home Sales. Weather Another system has entered the Southern Plains early Friday and will continue to provide scattered rain showers to the region throughout the day. More scattered showers will also develop across the Southern Delta and Southeast while precipitation exits the Eastern Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 25, 2024 |
American Farm Bureau Establishes 2024 Policies The American Farm Bureau Federation concluded its 2024 Annual Convention setting policy direction for the organization this year. Passing a farm bill this year is the top priority for Farm Bureau members, followed by labor and artificial intelligence data privacy. Delegates voted to create new policy to address the growth of artificial intelligence in agriculture, which has the potential to enhance farming practices and conserve resources, but AFBF says privacy rights must be respected. Delegates also voted to stabilize wage rates for guest workers and revise H-2A and H-2B programs. They reaffirmed their support for increasing reference prices in the farm bill and maintaining a strong crop insurance program, including expanding eligibility to ensure more commodities are covered. Additionally, Farm Bureau delegates agreed to say in the Rural Communications section of the policy book, "We support vehicle manufacturers continuing to include AM radio in vehicles.” Beyond policy changes, AFBF President Zippy Duvall and Vice President Scott VanderWal were unanimously re-elected for another two-year term. *********************************************************************************** First Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant Represents Opportunity Sustainable aviation fuel could grow into the largest new market ever seen for U.S. farm commodities thanks to the start of production at LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels. However, groups in Midwestern states say they could miss out on the opportunity without low-carbon ethanol, which requires carbon capture and sequestration. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association executive director Monte Shaw says, "Today and every day going forward, American farmers and ethanol producers are losing demand until we get carbon capture and sequestration online." Iowa Corn Usage and Production Committee Chair Dan Keitzer adds, “LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels will use a variety of low carbon sustainable ethanol, making this an eye-opening experience to what Iowa corn farmers could expect to be a part of." No Iowa ethanol plant currently has a carbon intensity score low enough to qualify as an SAF feedstock. Only one plant in the U.S., using CCS, is currently producing SAF-friendly ethanol. *********************************************************************************** Emergency Relief Program Payments Concentrated in North Dakota, Texas New data from USDA’s Economic Research Services shows Emergency Relief Program payments are largely concentrated in North Dakota and Texas. In 2020 and 2021, the United States experienced 42 disaster events, each resulting in damages of at least $1 billion, including hurricanes, drought, and wildfires. The Emergency Relief Program provides funds to assist commodity growers who suffered losses from natural disasters in those years. As of January 2023, cumulative payments made through the ERP totaled $7.3 billion. USDA disbursed a large portion of this total, $1.16 billion, to North Dakota producers of corn, soybeans, and wheat, who experienced flooding in 2020 and drought in 2021. Texas producers also received a sizable portion of payments, with cotton farmers receiving $510 million of the $909 million disbursed in that State. Producers in North Dakota and Texas received most ERP payments for revenue, quality, or production losses because of moisture and drought that occurred during the 2020 and 2021 crop years. *********************************************************************************** USDA: December Egg Production Up 3% USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report released this week shows December egg production increased three percent. United States egg production totaled 9.45 billion during December 2023. Production included 8.14 billion table eggs, and 1.31 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.21 billion were broiler-type and 97.0 million were egg-type. The total number of layers during December 2023 averaged 384 million, up two percent from last year. December egg production per 100 layers was 2,462 eggs, up one percent from December 2022. All layers in the United States on January 1, 2024, totaled 379 million, up one percent from last year. The 379 million layers consisted of 312 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 63.6 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.83 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on January 1, 2024, averaged 79.3 eggs per 100 layers, up two percent from January 1, 2023. *********************************************************************************** McCain Global Reports Sustainability Progress In its Global Sustainability Report, McCain Foods announced progress towards its sustainability commitments this week. The company aims to implement regenerative agriculture practices across 100 percent of the global acreage that grows potatoes for McCain products by the end of the decade. The Global Sustainable Report shows 51 percent of McCain's global potato acreage onboarded within McCain's Regenerative Agriculture Framework, and 28 percent moving up the framework towards more comprehensive adoption of regenerative practices. McCain is accelerating the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices through its direct relationships with farmers— a network of 3,500 partners around the world — by providing technical and educational assistance and developing innovative financing solutions to offset costs associated with making changes in farming practices and adopting new technologies. McCain Foods Limited is a family-owned business founded in 1957 in Florenceville, New Brunswick, Canada. Today, the company is the world’s largest manufacturer of frozen potato products. *********************************************************************************** Organic Valley Announces First Agreements, Payments to Farmers Organic Valley, the largest cooperative of organic farmers in the nation, announced the first agreements and payments to initial organic farmers participating in Organic Valley's Carbon Insetting Program this week. Building off the University of Wisconsin-Madison published research in the Journal for Cleaner Production, which showed Organic Valley's average on-farm milk emissions were some of the lowest in the nation, the cooperative is taking the next step to improve the carbon footprint of its milk. As a recipient of the USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant, the co-op is offering additional support for practices implemented on eligible Organic Valley member-owner farms, including selecting and scoping region-specific projects, verification of those projects, and then helping to fund the practice installation. The co-op offers technical assistance to help farmers plan and design carbon-reducing projects, sources grant implementation funds and ensures monitoring and verification of those projects. The projects include renewable energy installations at farmsteads, upgraded manure management technology, and enteric-reducing feed supplements.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 25, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Traders will be awaiting U.S. export sales for last week, along with watching for any changes in South American weather. Also, at 7:30 a.m. CST, we will get Fourth Quarter GDP, Initial Jobless Claims, and Durable Goods Orders. At 9 a.m. CST, New Home Sales will be released. Weather A low pressure system along a stalled frontal boundary will provide scattered showers across the Midwest, Tennessee Valley, and Southeast Thursday. Along with the risk for heavy rainfall across the Southeast, a few strong to severe thunderstorms may also form across the region. Farther west, drier conditions return to the Central and Southern Plains throughout Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 24, 2024 |
Some Republican Lawmakers Against Raising Reference Prices Following calls by some groups to increase reference prices in the upcoming Farm Bill, Republican lawmakers stand in "strong opposition" to any potential increases. Republican Representatives Alex Mooney of West Virginia, along with Tennessee's Andy Ogles, Brian Mast of Florida, and others, say any increase would further drive inflation higher. The letter states, "At a time when Congress must be taking steps to reduce federal spending, we must resist costly attempts to expand the scope of government intervention in the free market." The lawmakers argue that "higher price guarantees" would mostly benefit fewer than 6,000 farms. Increasing price guarantees for major crops would mostly benefit peanut, cotton, and rice farmers in Southern states, not corn and soybean farmers, according to the letter. Since payments are linked to production, the largest producers get the lion's share of the funding. In 2021, just ten percent of farmers received more than 80 percent of all Price Loss Coverage payments, the lawmakers claim. *********************************************************************************** Small Family Farms at Highest Financial Risk Small family farms were more likely to have greater financial vulnerability than other farms, according to data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. Researchers calculated the operating profit margin by taking the ratio of profit to gross farm income to find that in 2022, between 52 and 79 percent of small family farms, depending on the farm type, were at the high-risk level. If the operating profit margin is less than ten percent, the operation is considered at high financial risk. When the measure is between 10 and 25 percent, the operation is considered at medium financial risk, and if above 25 percent, the operation is at low financial risk. A majority of small-scale family farms, which have a gross cash farm income of up to $350,000, earn most of their income from off-farm sources. For these farms, farm profitability is not necessarily essential to the survival of the household. Small family farms make up 88 percent of all farms but account for only 19 percent of the total value of production. *********************************************************************************** ADM Investigating Chief Financial Officer This week, ADM appointed an interim chief financial officer while the current CFO, Vikram Luthar, was placed on administrative leave. Luthar's leave is pending an ongoing investigation conducted by outside counsel for ADM and the Board's Audit Committee regarding certain accounting practices and procedures concerning ADM's Nutrition segment, including certain intersegment transactions. ADM's investigation was initiated in response to a voluntary document request by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. ADM Lead Director Terry Crews says, "Pending the outcome of the investigation, the Board determined that it was advisable to place Luthar on administrative leave. The Board will continue working closely with ADM's advisors to identify the best path forward and ensure ADM's processes align with financial governance best practices.” ADM will make further announcements regarding the matter when the Board of Directors see fit. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Senate Bill Would Support Small Grocers A bill introduced last week in the Iowa Senate seeks to provide resources to small grocery store owners fighting to keep their stores open amidst economic and workforce challenges and competition from big box retailers. The legislation would create the Grocer Reinvestment Fund and establish a grant and loan program to help locally-owned grocery stores selling perishable foods invest in their businesses. Cynthia Farmer, policy associate with the Center for Rural Affairs, says, "The Grocer Reinvestment Fund and Program would provide financial support to grocers for cost-saving efforts and business efficiency to ensure long-term sustainability." The Iowa Economic Development Authority will oversee the grant and loan program if the bill passes. Funding will be available to grocery stores that sell canned and frozen food; fresh fruits and vegetables; and fresh meat, fish, and poultry. The business must employ 25 or fewer individuals and plan to create new jobs or increase compensation for existing employees. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Explore Agriculture in Australia More than 70 current and past state FFA officers started the new year by exploring Australia and the various types of agriculture the country offers. It was part of the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers, supported by FFA corporate donors Bungee and John Deere. While in Australia, the students explored Sydney. Then they traveled to Canberra, where they visited with the counselor for agricultural affairs, agricultural specialists and agricultural marketing specialists based at the U.S. Embassy, a representative from the National Farmers' Federation, and a representative from the Australian Rural Leadership Program. They visited perennial pastures, Angus cattle farms, and more. While visiting the Darlington Point District, they explored one of Australia’s most productive farmland, where rice and other cereal crops, fruits and vegetables, grapes, and citrus are grown. Students also visited Australia's only independent agricultural college. They wrapped up their journey in Melbourne, exploring the city and visiting a wildlife sanctuary. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Provides Internship Opportunities in Denver and D.C. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is providing multiple internship opportunities for students to learn about different aspects of the cattle industry. Internships are offered in NCBA’s offices in Denver, Colorado and Washington, D.C. New this year, NCBA is launching a Producer Education and Sustainability Internship focused on implementing the cattle industry's sustainability goals, supporting the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance program, and providing educational resources to cattle producers to improve land management, animal health, and profitability. The internship will occur in the summer of 2024. NCBA and the Public Lands Council are also now accepting applications for the summer 2024 Public Policy Internship in Washington, D.C., from May 20 – August 23, 2024. The internship allows students to work jointly with NCBA and PLC to advance policies important to the beef and sheep industries. The full description and qualifications for both internship opportunities are available on the careers page of ncba.org. Applications are due by February 23, 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 24, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to monitor changes in South American weather and will soon be picking up more soybean harvest reports from Brazil. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CST and USDA's monthly cold storage report will follow at 2 p.m. Weather More rounds of rain showers will plague the central U.S. Wednesday as rain showers are expected to continue from the southeast Plains into the Ohio Valley. A few strong to severe storms are possible in southeastern Texas, southern Louisiana, and southern Mississippi as well. Heavy rain could also lead to areas of flooding across the Southern Delta and Tennessee Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 23, 2024 |
USDA Investing $207 Million in Clean Energy and Domestic Fertilizer Projects Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced USDA is investing $207 million in renewable energy and domestic fertilizer projects. Vilsack made the announcement at the 105th annual American Farm Bureau Federation convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. Vilsack says, “The investments announced will expand access to renewable energy infrastructure and increase domestic fertilizer production, all while creating good-paying jobs and saving people money on their energy costs that they can then invest back into their businesses and communities.” USDA is investing in projects in 42 states, funded through the Rural Energy for America Program and the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program. The Rural Energy for America Program awards total $157 million for 675 projects in 42 states. Projects financed through the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program will help U.S. farmers increase independent, domestic fertilizer production. The investments include $50 million in seven projects in seven states. Funding supports long-term investments that will strengthen supply chains, create new economic opportunities for American businesses, and support climate-smart innovation. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Makes Call for Farm Bill Passage American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall encouraged AFBF members to press Congress to pass a new Farm Bill. Speaking at the AFBF annual convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, which kicked off Sunday, Duvall told members of AFBF, “I’m asking you to send a resounding message to Congress to deliver a new farm bill for our farms and our country.” Duvall continued, “The road to a new farm bill has become longer than any of us would have liked, but together we can see it through.” Many believe Congress needs to act in the first half of the year to complete a farm bill and avoid the thick of election season this fall. Representative Blake Moore, a Republican from Utah, told the audience making a personal connection with lawmakers works best. He says, “Most members of Congress, whether they have a ‘D’ or an ‘R’ in front of their name, they do believe there is a need for strong agriculture.” *********************************************************************************** Farm Groups Launch Mental Health Initiative Farm Family Wellness Alliance launched Togetherall over the weekend, launching free, anonymous, online mental health and wellbeing services for farm families. Announced at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, the effort offers a safe, clinically moderated peer-to-peer community, where members around the world are there to listen, support and give members' mental wellbeing a boost. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “It’s OK not to be OK, but it’s not OK not to reach out when you’re hurting.” Togetherall also offers a range of wellbeing tools, such as self-assessments and access to additional support services through a partnership with Personal Assistance Services. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, financial health, improving sleep and more. Farm Foundation started the Farm Family Wellness Alliance in 2020 following the Iowa derecho. The announcement this weekend expands the program nationwide. To learn more, visit farmfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Food-at-home Spending Drops Close to pre-COVID Levels Following shifts in U.S. food spending during the COVID-19 pandemic, food-at-home spending was only 2.7 percent higher in November 2023 compared with November 2019. Food-away-from-home spending remained elevated at 14.6 percent higher, according to new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. After an initial jump in inflation-adjusted food-at-home spending in March through May 2020, the spending leveled off, averaging just 2.8 percent higher in December 2020 compared with 2019. Even as prices increased throughout 2021 and 2022, inflation-adjusted food-at-home spending also increased, with monthly spending in these years averaging 7.2 percent higher than the corresponding months in 2019. Food at home spending has trended back toward pre-pandemic levels since the peak difference of 9.5 percent in March 2022. By contrast, food away-from-home spending initially fell during the pandemic but reversed quickly and outpaced 2019 spending starting in June 2021. Food at home spending peaked at 14.8 percent higher in March 2023 compared with March 2019. *********************************************************************************** Alltech 2023 U.S. Harvest Analysis Reveals Variable Mycotoxin Risk U.S. farmers and producers have experienced droughts, high rainfall, and other weather events affecting the 2023 corn harvest, making it more critical than ever to analyze mycotoxin. The Alltech 2023 U.S. Harvest Analysis has collected and assessed almost 450 new-crop samples from across the U.S., and the results show regional variation in mycotoxin risk. Samples showed lower risk in the upper Midwest and higher risk in the East. A combination of drought and untimely rains led to much of the risk. Mycotoxins are produced by certain species of molds and are a concern for livestock producers, as they can influence feed quality and subsequent animal health and performance. Mycotoxin levels continue to be higher in the East and Midwest United States. Earlier harvest conditions and drier conditions in the West helped to create lower-risk conditions. The Alltech 2023 U.S. Harvest Analysis demonstrates that mycotoxins are an ongoing, dynamic issue that livestock producers need to manage. For more information about Alltech Mycotoxin Management solutions, visit knowmycotoxins.com. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Traveling to Georgia to Tout SAF, School Meals Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack is in Georgia promoting USDA's school meals and sustainable aviation fuel this week. Vilsack Tuesday (today) is visiting a high school in East Point, Georgia, participating in a roundtable with child nutrition efforts. The discussion focuses on efforts to expand access to healthy meals for more students and improve the nutritional quality of those meals. Wednesday, Vilsack will provide Keynote remarks at the grand opening of LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels in Soperton, Georgia. The facility is the world’s first facility dedicated to the production of sustainable aviation fuel from ethanol. The visit comes as the Environmental Protection Agency released Public Data for the Renewable Fuel Standard, including final production volumes for 2023. EPA’s data shows that U.S. production of biomass-based diesel – including biodiesel, renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and heating oil – reached four billion gallons in 2023. Both domestic production and use of advanced biomass-based diesel grew by one billion gallons in 2023, compared to 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 23, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to pay attention to the weather in South America plus rising hostility from Iran and the latest threat from Russia. There are no significant market reports due out Tuesday. Weather While areas of freezing rain, snow, and a mix of rain and snow will continue across the Eastern Midwest and Great Lakes Tuesday, areas of heavy rainfall will remain possible across the Southern Plains and Southern Delta. A few strong to severe storms are also possible across southeast Texas and eastern Louisiana.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 22, 2024 |
Fed’s January 2024 Beige Book on Ag Economy The Federal Reserve Board released its January 2024 Beige Book, a summary of its commentary on the current economic conditions in each Federal Reserve District. In the sixth district around Atlanta, Low cattle supply led to higher cattle prices, but consumers are substituting less expensive proteins and preventing full pass-through of prices. In the eighth district near St. Louis, ongoing drought continues to affect livestock and crop conditions. The ninth district of Minneapolis shows conditions unchanged, while most say farm incomes dropped substantially from last year. In Kansas City’s tenth district, profits narrowed during the past year as commodity prices moderated, particularly in areas hit by drought. Drought conditions continue to recede in the eleventh district of Dallas as soil moisture improves and crop production prospects look better in 2024. Conditions in San Francisco’s 12th district were solid in agriculture and resource-related sectors, with robust yields and inventories of various products. *********************************************************************************** GAO Pushes FDA on Food Safety Although the U.S. food supply is one of the safest, foodborne illness is a public health concern. The Food and Drug Administration has a new rule requiring detailed records for certain foods as they move through the supply chain, which can help trace the source of a potential outbreak. FDA has taken steps like issuing guidance to help implement the rule. The Government Accountability Office has recommended that the FDA finalize its plans for implementing the rule to help industry and regulators prepare for compliance by January 30, 2026. In November 2022, the FDA promulgated a final rule on food traceability to help identify the source of outbreaks of foodborne illness. When developing the new rule, FDA established a list of certain foods for which enhanced recordkeeping is required. Entities handling an item on the list must maintain records, including a traceability plan for specific points in the supply chain. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Releases Letter on the Farm Bill Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow wrote a letter to her colleagues on their work to write a new farm bill. She outlined several proposals for strengthening the farm safety net in the new bill. While calling the 2018 Farm Bill a “strong foundation” for American farmers, she also says, “The 2024 Farm Bill is an opportunity for the Committee to make improvements, modernize dated elements, and address emerging challenges American farmers face.” Her vision for modernizing the safety net centers around principles like programs being targeted to active farmers, providing farmers choice and flexibility, and sending them timely assistance. She also says officials need to expand the reach of programs to help more farmers and address the emerging risks farmers face. “Crop insurance is a key tool to meaningfully advance each of those goals,” she said in the letter. “Farmers want better affordability and a more straightforward and streamlined process.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Pilot Beef-Grading Program Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced a pilot program to allow more cattle producers and meat processors to access better markets through USDA’s official beef quality grading and certification. The Remote Grading Pilot for Beef, developed by the AMS, matches simple technology with robust data management and program oversight to allow a USDA grader to assess beef carcass characteristics and assign the official quality grade from a remote location, reducing costs and location as barriers to participation in the voluntary grading service. “On average, a beef carcass that grades as USDA Prime is valued at hundreds of dollars more than an ungraded one,” Vilsack says. “But the costs for this voluntary USDA service often prevent smaller scale processors and the farmers and ranchers they serve from using this valuable marketing tool.” Consumers and buyers and sellers of beef rely on USDA quality grades, including Prime, Choice, and Select, to indicate quality. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Unhappy with ITC Decision on Tariffs The National Corn Growers Association is deeply disappointed in a decision from the International Trade Commission. The ITC upheld an earlier opinion finding material injury to U.S. fertilizer companies during a time of rising on-farm fertilizer prices that went on to reach record highs. The decision came after the U.S. Court of International Trade asked the Commerce Department and ITC to reconsider decisions they issued on the matter. “The idea that major fertilizer conglomerates were materially injured even as they were posting substantially higher profits during the time in question sounds dubious to me,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “The decision ignores the request from the Court of International Trade and the negative impacts these tariffs continue to have on America’s farmers, who are facing higher prices for the fertilizers critical to the success of their crops. We will continue to make a vigorous case for eliminating or lowering these tariffs.” *********************************************************************************** Groups Press for Miscellaneous Tariff Bill Crop Life America and several other groups joined together on Capitol Hill to urge immediate action by lawmakers to renew the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill. “A passage of the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill that’s fully retroactive would help farmers’ access to the essential pesticide products they need to grow food for the U.S. and the World,” CropLife America said in a statement. “A renewed MTB would mean lower input prices resulting in decreased price pressures for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and consumers.” The American Chemistry Council was another of the groups pushing for renewal of the MTB. “The bill would support advanced manufacturing in the United States and domestic chemical production used to make products in key agriculture, food production, and industrial sectors, including information technology, renewable energy, and automotive goods,” said the ACC. The previous MTB expired in December 2020, and since then, businesses continued to pay $1.3 million per day in tariffs.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 22, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Weather Warms, Winter Meetings Start 1. Farm Bureau reports: DTN Senior Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton is covering the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah, Jan 19-24. Farm Bill legislation, trade and other issues will all be part of speeches and sessions there. 2. Weather warmup: While this weekend includes a last burst of really cold air into South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska, a warmup is on tap for the week ahead. That will bring increasing precipitation across eastern Texas and up into the Midwest in several waves. We could see heavy snow in the Great Lakes region, and some ice potential in the Ohio and Mid-Mississippi valleys, depending on temperatures. 3. Market happenings: Soybean markets are watching for the start of Brazilian harvest as well as the ongoing reports of China's potential economic slowdown. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will speak at the Sioux Falls, South Dakota farm show from Wednesday through Friday. It's a great place to hear the latest market thoughts and ask your marketing questions. 4. Stewart returns: DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart returns Monday; watch for her market commentary throughout the week. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday we'll report grain inspections at 10 a.m. Then, Tuesday sees U.S. bioenergy statistics at 2 p.m. On Wednesday, we'll see the S & P PMI numbers released at 8:45 a.m. A busy Thursday starts with a number of reports released at 7:30 a.m., including 4th quarter GDP, initial jobless claims, durable goods orders, U.S. trade balance, U.S. retail and wholesale inventories, and U.S. export sales. Friday we'll watch for personal Income, personal spending and the PCE Index at 7:30 a.m. At 9 a.m. the pending home sales index will be released.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 22, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep catch up on South American weather forecasts and notice any news over the weekend, especially concerning Middle East tensions and Red Sea traffic. The U.S. index of leading indicators for December is set for 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. Weather A large system will bring widespread precipitation from Texas into Illinois Monday, with pockets of heavy freezing rain likely in parts of Arkansas and Missouri. Up to 0.10-0.25 inch of ice is possible in northern Arkansas and southern Missouri. Meanwhile, parts of eastern Texas could see 1-3 inches of rain.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 19, 2024 |
Farm Lending Activity Remains Muted New non-real estate farm lending activity at commercial banks continued to decline in the fourth quarter of 2023. The volume of new non-real estate farm loans in the final months of 2023 was about 15 percent less than the previous year. The number of new loans did increase from the previous year, but the average loan sizes were considerably lower. The sharp climb in farm loan interest rates abated during the quarter as average rates increased modestly for some types of loans and dropped slightly for others. Despite a reduction in new loans compared to late 2022, 2023’s outstanding farm debt balances reported by commercial banks grew steadily through the third quarter of 2023. Elevated production costs, higher interest expenses, and lower commodity prices increased the financing needs of many producers. The Kansas City Fed says strong liquidity in recent years likely supplemented the borrowing needs of some operations throughout 2023. *********************************************************************************** Taylor to Lead Trade Mission to India Alexis Taylor, USDA’s Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to India from April 22-25. USDA is reminding interested parties that applications are open for exporters who want to take part. “There is no larger untapped market in the world for U.S. agriculture than India and its 1.4 billion consumers,” Taylor says. “We achieved notable tariff reductions this year on chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, and frozen turkey, among other products that will open market opportunities for American farmers in the world’s most populous country.” She also says FAS is excited to support food and agricultural exporters as the two countries have entered a new chapter in trade relations. While in India, U.S. agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. “Total U.S. ag exports to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka exceeded $2.5 billion in 2022,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Keeps Pushing for Death Tax Relief The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association strongly supports the Death Tax Repeal Act introduced in both the House and Senate. NCBA says it’s unconscionable for cattle producers to face a tax that forces them to sell all or part of their family’s farm or ranch due to the death of a family member. “With the cost of farmland rising rapidly, the Death Tax presents a significant threat to the future of family farms and ranches,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota. “Most cattle producers have significant assets but are cash-poor and operate on thin margins, leaving them with few options when they are saddled with an unexpected tax liability.” The NCBA says some producers get forced to sell off assets, including land, livestock, farm equipment, and even their home. Current death tax relief expires at the end of 2025, and it’s vital that Congress acts soon to provide permanent relief. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Tops U.S. Soybean Production in 2023 The National Agricultural Statistics Service estimates Illinois soybean farmers raised a U.S.-leading 648.9 million bushels on 10.3 million acres. Compared to the previous year, total acreage and yield estimates were both four percent lower in Illinois. Average soybean yields remained the same in 2023 at 63 bushels an acre. “I’d like to congratulate my fellow farmers on another successful growing season,” says Ron Kindred, Illinois Soybean Association Chair. “Illinois farmers made smart management decisions to maintain average soybean yields statewide.” Kindred also says part of the success can be attributed to the efforts of the Illinois Soybean Association. “For 60 years and counting, ISA has invested in production research, education, advocacy, and market development efforts to afford all Illinois soybean farmers success even in the face of many challenges,” he says. As the Illinois Soybean Association turns 60, Kindred says communicating the checkoff’s benefits is key to staying ahead of challenges. *********************************************************************************** Record Support for AM Radio in the House The radio industry hit an important milestone as the number of lawmakers in the House who back efforts to make AM radio mandatory in vehicles has reached 200. The list has grown even as the proposed AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act has yet to make much legislative progress in the House. Insider Radio says the growth in support could be critical if bill sponsors try to attach the measure to a piece of must-pass legislation like a spending bill. National Association of Broadcasters spokesman Alex Siciliano credits grassroots support for helping broadcasters to gain so many cosponsors of the Act during the past year. “AM radio is continuing to reach a vast audience of 82 million listeners each month, and they’ve been very engaged in telling Congress how important this medium is to them in light of the threat by vehicle makers to remove AM from vehicles,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Outlines 2024 Policy Priorities Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, published its 2024 federal policy priorities. “These are policy decisions that will shape the next era of growth in plant-based energy and climate solutions,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We hope these priorities serve as a roadmap for elected officials seeking to support biomanufacturing facilities at the heart of America’s bioeconomy.” The policy priorities focus on ensuring drivers can use more lower-carbon, lower-cost bioethanol at the pump at home and abroad. The group wants to restore permanent, unrestricted access to E15 year-round nationwide. Growth Energy also wants to use bioethanol to expeditiously advance the national transportation carbon reduction goals. They want to make sure the Department of Energy incorporates the best science and makes limited changes to the GREET model as it relates to the 408 Sustainable Aviation Fuel Tax Credit. They want to ensure changes are finished by March 1, 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 19, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday. At 9 a.m., the University of Michigan's report of consumer sentiment in January and a report on U.S. existing home sales in December will both be released. USDA's cattle on-feed report for January 1 will be out at 2 p.m., the same time as USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook for January. Weather A clipper system continues to bring a band of snow across the eastern Midwest and into the Mid-Atlantic on Friday and is pulling the last of an arctic blast from the polar vortex behind it from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico yet again that will last for a couple of days.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 18, 2024 |
Lawmakers Seek 2024 DMC Enrollment Period A group of lawmakers is asking the Department of Agriculture to swiftly open the 2024 Dairy Margin Coverage program sign-up period. The program is the nation's risk management tool for dairy producers that helps farmers manage changes between milk prices and feed costs. The lawmakers, including Iowa Republican Representative Randy Feenstra, write, “Now, as we are nearly halfway through January, there continues to be no indication given to producers of when they will be eligible to select their DMC coverage level for 2024.” The delay, the lawmakers say, coupled with the unpredictable nature of the industry is “concerning for the farm economy and the constituents we represent.” Throughout 2023, dairy producers faced numerous challenges – high input costs, continued inflation, and unpredictable weather conditions – meaning that programs like DMC, which provide certainty during unstable economic conditions, are vital to producers and rural communities, the letter says. The lawmakers urged USDA to quickly open the sign-up period to provide dairy producers certainty in 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Large Family Farms Account for Bulk of Commodity Production Large-scale family farms accounted for a majority of the value of commodity production in 2022, according to a new report from USDA’s Economic Research Service. Specifically, these farms accounted for 51 percent of cash grains and soybeans, 56 percent of hog production, 65 percent of cotton along with 65 percent of specialty crops, and 76 percent of dairy products. On the other hand, small family farms accounted for three percent of the value of production for dairy, four percent for cotton, seven percent for specialty crops, and 26 percent for beef, but they produced the majority of hay—53 percent—and 45 percent of poultry and eggs. The value of production by nonfamily farms ranged from five percent for both hay production and poultry and eggs production to 19 percent for specialty crop production. Large scale family farms are those with a Gross Cash Farm Income of more than $1 million. *********************************************************************************** Global Soybean Stocks Raised on Higher Production The marketing year 2023/24 global soybean production forecast has increased by 0.1 million metric tons this month to 399.0 million metric tons. USDA’s Monthly Oil Crops Outlook shows higher production in Argentina, the United States, Paraguay, Russia, China, and Bolivia more than offset lower production in Brazil. Global soybean trade for 2023/24 is forecasted to be up from last month and stands at 170.9 million metric tons due to higher exports from Paraguay and Russia. The global soybean crush is nearly unchanged this month, as higher crush in Argentina, India, Egypt, and Thailand offsets the reduced crush volume in Brazil. Global soybean ending stocks are forecast at 114.6 million metric tons, up 0.4 million metric tons from last month's forecast and 12.7 million metric tons above last year's level. In the latest Crop Production report by USDA, U.S. soybean production was raised by 35.2 million bushels on higher yields. The harvested acreage is reduced this month 0.4 million acres on lower harvested area. *********************************************************************************** United Soybean Board Releases 2024 Sustainability Overview The United Soybean Board Wednesday released the 2023 Soy Sustainability Overview. The report outlines the partnerships formed through checkoff investment to drive innovation in sustainability. The advances include efforts to enhance sustainability in production agriculture and ongoing development of new soy-based products that provide cleaner alternatives for everything from rubbers and plastics to adhesives and lubricants. Iowa farmer April Hemmes, chair of the Demand Action Team at USB, says, "U.S. Soy farmers are proud of the important and growing role they play in maximizing sustainability not only in farming but throughout industries and around the globe." The report covers sustainable food practices, renewable energy such as biodiesel, and other sustainability practices. The report also provides updates on checkoff-funded research projects that hold significant promise in advancing sustainability, both on the farm and through groundbreaking new uses for soy. For more information and to view the report, visit unitedsoybean.org. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Promote Domestic Hardwood Products Representatives Tom Tiffany and Congresswoman Ann Kuster introduced bipartisan legislation this week to support domestic hardwood products. The Hardwood Products Access and Development Program Act, permits the Agriculture Secretary to authorize grants that bolster domestic industry efforts and research that directly supports end-user information on the benefits of hardwood products. The grants will allow various nonprofits, universities, and other eligible applicants to research the low carbon footprint and sustainability of domestically produced hardwood products to educate the public on the benefits of these products. Representative Tiffany, a Wisconsin Republican, says, "This important legislation will inform consumers on the sustainability of domestically produced hardwood products." Representative Kuster, a New Hampshire Democrat adds, "American-grown hardwood offers an incredible opportunity to create more sustainable, durable products in countless industries right here at home." The U.S. hardwood industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry supporting over 1.8 million jobs, mostly in rural, underserved areas. *********************************************************************************** USDA Appoints New Members to Minority Farmers Advisory Committee The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the appointment of 15 new members to the Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers. The newly appointed members serve terms of up to two years. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "This committee is part of USDA's commitment to ensure that all farmers have equal access to USDA programs and services, especially minority farmers and producers in underserved communities." Committee members represent socially disadvantaged farmers, nonprofit organizations, civil rights organizations or professions, and higher education institutions. Congress established the Advisory Committee for Minority Farmers in the Food Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 to ensure that underserved farmers have equal access to USDA programs. Committee members advise the Secretary of Agriculture on the administration of the Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Competitive Grant Program. They also make recommendations to the Secretary on how to increase minority participation in USDA programs. Find more information, including a list of new members, on the committee website.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 18, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. housing starts for December and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly energy inventory report at 10 a.m. Traders continue to monitor South American weather and news from the Middle East. Weather A clipper system is moving through South Dakota early this morning, bringing a band of light to moderate snow through the Northern Plains. The system will continue southeast through Iowa Thursday and into the eastern Midwest overnight into Friday. An arctic blast of cold will follow behind the clipper for a couple of days, though temperatures out ahead of it are closer to normal in a reprieve from yesterday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 17, 2024 |
Pork Producers Concerned About FDA Antibiotics Proposal The National Pork Producers Council submitted comments critical of the Food and Drug Administration’s draft guidance on the duration of use of certain antibiotics in food animals. NPPC says the proposal would “deny the ability for a veterinarian to prescribe antimicrobials appropriately, burden pharmaceutical companies, and may jeopardize antibiotic access.” For 30 years, the U.S. pork industry has implemented measures, including FDA directives, for responsible antibiotic use. In the comments, NPPC emphasized that veterinarians are responsible for deciding what antimicrobials to prescribe, when products should be used and administered, which animals to medicate, and for how long. The organization says the draft guidance interferes with the veterinarian’s decision-making process by mandating a duration of use. The comments urge the FDA to work closely with drug manufacturers to provide a simple process to include duration of use to continue the availability of products and allow veterinarians to maintain their role in the decision-making process. *********************************************************************************** Collaboration Will Expand Rural Connectivity John Deere announced it entered into an agreement with SpaceX to provide cutting-edge satellite communications service to farmers. Utilizing the Starlink network will allow farmers facing rural connectivity issues to fully leverage precision agriculture technologies. The partnership will enable John Deere customers to be more productive, profitable, and sustainable in their operations as they continue to provide food, fuel, and fiber to their communities and a growing global population. “The value of connectivity to farmers is broader than any single task or action,” says Aaron Wetzel, vice president of production and precision ag systems at John Deere. “Connectivity unlocks vast opportunities that were previously limited or unavailable.” The new solution will connect both new and existing machines through satellite internet service and satellite terminals. This will fully enable technologies such as autonomy, real-time data sharing, remote diagnostics, enhanced self-repair solutions, and machine-to-machine communication to help farmers work more efficiently. *********************************************************************************** Rural Residents Among Country’s Unhappiest People Rural residents join Republicans, renters, women, and single people in feeling they’re in a funk financially. That’s according to the Axios Vibe survey by The Harris Poll. Inflation has dipped in recent months, but the subject remains top of mind for many Americans. Six in 10 survey respondents say they’re now “triggered” by trips to the grocery store. Grocery purchases are the top way Americans say they feel inflation every day, followed by gas prices. Thirty-seven percent of Americans rate their financial situation as poor. That rises to 57 percent for renters, 47 percent for singles, and 46 percent for rural residents. Forty-one percent of Americans say their finances are worse today than they’d have predicted if they’d been asked, pre-COVID, to imagine the future. That percentage rises to 53 percent for rural residents and 51 percent for renters. The poll finds many Americans, including rural residents, calling the economy weak. *********************************************************************************** Actor Joining Clean Fuels Alliance to Promote Bioheat Donnie Wahlberg of the TV show “Bluebloods” has joined Clean Fuels Alliance America in a campaign to raise awareness about Bioheat Fuel, an environmentally responsible and sustainable energy solution It’s an eco-friendly and sustainable home heating solution derived from plants, including soybeans. Wahlberg, a Boston native, is excited about promoting a cleaner future, especially in the Northeast. Bioheat fuel is a renewable energy source that blends traditional heating oil with biodiesel, significantly reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact. Wahlberg’s partnership with Clean Fuels is driven by a shared commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions and fostering environmental responsibility. “Donnie’s involvement adds a powerful voice to our campaign, bringing attention to the positive impact of Bioheat fuel on a local and global scale,” says Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “We believe that together, we can inspire positive change and encourage individuals to make the switch to cleaner, more sustainable heating options.” *********************************************************************************** Promoting Agroforestry on Farms Propagate and the Rodale Institute announced a new partnership to promote agroforestry. The collaboration’s goal is to increase the adoption of agroforestry and tree-cropping systems in North America. They say planting new agroforestry systems on farms is a win for farmers and the planet. Agroforestry systems introduce additional streams of income for farmers and boost the resilience of their operations. Increasing the number of farms across the country is also crucial to the health of the food system and climate stability. Regenerative practices like agroforestry promote overall soil health, store carbon in soils, accumulate woody biomass, improve water quality, promote biodiversity, and support pollinators. “Agroforestry is a critical tool for farmers and ranchers to improve both agricultural land and the environment,” says Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach (catch). “Rodale and Propagate will further develop innovative research and expand producers’ access to actionable data that enables their adoption of regenerative practices.” *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for 4R Program The Fertilizer Institute says nominations are open for the 2024 4R Advocates. These distinguished farmers and retailers are committed to implementing advanced fertilizer best management practices that incorporate the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship while demonstrating remarkable economic and environmental benefits. “Embracing the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship isn’t just a commitment for the fertilizer industry, but it’s a meaningful step towards helping countless American farmers enhance both their profitability and the health of the land,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “We take pride in the dedication of our industry’s retailers, who work hand-in-hand with farmers to put these practices into action in the field.” The 4R Advocates actively engage in TFI’s outreach efforts to promote responsible fertilizer management practices throughout the year. They do so by hosting farm field days, participating in conference panels, and sharing their insights and experiences with fellow farmers. More information is at tfi.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 17, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders remain attentive to South American weather forecasts and events in the Middle East. U.S. retail sales for December are due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by the Federal Reserve's report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The Fed's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. Due to Monday's holiday, the Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out Thursday. Weather While the polar vortex remains in control over much of North America, there is some moderation from the drastically cold temperatures of the last few days across the north. Southern areas dove deeper into the cold with below-freezing temperatures through the Gulf of Mexico. A system in the Pacific Northwest continues to drop significant snow there that will bleed into the northwestern Plains as well, especially for Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 16, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from a three-day weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts for South America and news of attacks from the Red Sea. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will estimate members' soybean crush in December later Tuesday morning. Weather The polar vortex is firmly planted over the middle of North America on Tuesday and while the harshest temperatures have passed on from the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains, it remains very cold across much of the country between the Rockies and Appalachians. A storm system is moving east and out of the country while the cold, arctic air settles.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 15, 2024 |
Final 2023 Crop Report Shows Jump in Corn Production USDA released its final 2023 Crop Production Report showing a rise in corn production and a drop in soybean production. 2023 corn production hit a record 15.3 billion bushels, 12 percent above 2022. The average yield was a record-high 177.3 bushels per acre, 3.9 bushels above 2022. Soybean production in 2023 reached 4.16 billion bushels, two percent lower than in 2022. The average yield was 50.6 bushels per acre, one bushel above 2022, but the production drop was due to four percent fewer harvested acres than the previous year. Meanwhile, the December WASDE Report calls for greater corn production, larger domestic use, and higher ending stocks. The season-average price is down five cents at $4.80 per bushel. In soybeans, supplies rose 31 million bushels over November’s prediction. Projected soybean ending stocks totaled 280 million bushels, up 35 million. The season-average soybean price is $12.75 a bushel, 15 cents below November. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reopening Signup for Continuous CRP The USDA will begin accepting applications for the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program signup on January 12. The Farm Service Agency encourages agricultural producers and landowners interested in conservation opportunities for their land in exchange for yearly rental payments to consider the enrollment options available through Continuous CRP. It also includes the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program offered by FSA partners. Additionally, producers participating in CRP can apply to re-enroll beginning January 12 if their contracts expire this year. “Continuous CRP is one of the best conservation tools we can provide producers and landowners,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Whether a producer wants to focus on water quality benefits or work with one of our partners to address natural resource concerns in their area, the program offers many options to help meet those resource conservation goals.” To submit an offer, producers and landowners should contact their local FSA office by July 31. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Grain Stocks, Winter Wheat Seeding Reports USDA released its December 2023 Grain Stocks report that showed higher corn and wheat stocks in all positions, while soybean stocks dropped from 2022. Corn in all positions totaled 12.2 billion bushels, 13 percent above December 2022. Soybeans were estimated at three billion bushels, one percent lower than a year ago. All wheat on December 1, 2023, totaled 1.41 billion bushels, eight percent above 2022. The winter wheat area planted for 2024 harvest is estimated at 34.4 million acres, six percent below 2023 but three percent higher than in 2022. Kansas and Texas, the two states with the largest acreages, are expected to be down seven and eight percent, respectively. Michigan and Utah were expected to plant a record-low number of acres. Hard Red Winter Wheat seeded area is expected to be 24 million acres, five percent below 2023. The largest drop in planted acres is in Kansas and Texas. *********************************************************************************** Radio Hand-In-Hand With the Future The Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas, Nevada, had plenty to offer in the way of future technology, including self-driving cars and Artificial Intelligence. Radio Ink says broadcasters should be encouraged that radio continues to show up at a high-tech event like CES. Radio’s largest presence was in the car, just like in everyday life. One company showed off the DTS AutoStage technology in a BMW. It offered a visual way to enjoy AM-FM and in-car games like Jeopardy. As electric vehicles continue to grow, companies are looking for ways to help drivers and passengers pass the time while their EVs charge. The same company showed off adding HD radio to Harley Davidson motorcycles. John Deere showed off its future farmer-focused technology, which included radio still playing a big part of the in-cab entertainment system. That became more important when looking at agriculture’s push to preserve the AM band in rural America. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Market is “Resilient” The Farmers National Company says the farmland market seems to be moving into the new year maintaining the value increases it’s built during the last three years. That stability is in place despite increasing pressure from declining commodity markets, rising interest rates, and inflation. The sharp increase in land values last year which was driven primarily by strong commodity markets has slowed, but the value is holding steady. Buyer demand remains strong for good quality cropland in the Midwest, while the supply of available land remains limited. “These factors further play into the dynamics of the supply-demand scenario and remain a large factor in supporting current values in early 2024,” says Paul Schadegg, senior vice president of real estate operations for Farmers National. Local farmers/operators continue to be the principal buyers in almost 80 percent of Farmland’s sales transactions. “Available cash plays a role in buyer’s aggressiveness when bidding on land.” *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Applauds Court Ruling The U.S. Court of Appeals in the 11th Circuit dismissed a case involving the Hunt Refining Company and the Environmental Protection Agency. The court ruled that the Small Refinery Exemption challenge brought by Hunt under the Renewable Fuels Standard couldn’t be heard by the court and should be heard instead by the Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the 11th Circuit Court validated what’s already known. “EPA’s denials of these SRE petitions were ‘nationally applicable’ and have nationwide effect, and challenges to the denials have only been brought to the D.C. Circuit Court,” Skor says. “Every time refiners seek to take RFS gallons out of the marketplace, that potentially impacts the entire renewable fuels market, no matter where those gallons get blended.” She also says the 11th Circuit rightly removed itself from the challenges and avoided contributing to a potential patchwork of inconsistent standards.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 12, 2024 |
November Pork Export Value Highest in Over Two Years Fueled by record performances in Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, November pork exports reached their highest value since November 2021. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says November pork exports reached 258,600 metric tons, up five percent from last year and the highest in six months. Export value rose two percent to $737.4 million, the highest since May 2021 and seventh-highest on record. From January through November, pork exports reached 2.64 million metric tons, eight percent higher than the previous year. “The momentum for U.S. pork is remarkable and very broad-based,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Beef exports totaled just over 99,000 metric tons during November, 14 percent below the prior year and the second lowest in 2023. Value fell seven percent to $786 million. For the first 11 months of the year, beef exports were 13 percent lower than the record pace of 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Kicking Off the National Ag Classification Survey As the agency already prepares for the 2027 Census of Agriculture, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will conduct the National Agricultural Classification Survey on January 24. The survey, an important step in determining who should receive a 2027 Census of Agriculture questionnaire, will go to approximately 250,000 recipients to ask if they conduct agricultural activity. The results of the survey will ensure that every U.S. producer, no matter how large or small their operation, has a voice and is counted in the highly anticipated and influential agricultural census data. “This survey helps illustrate the breadth of American agriculture and enables USDA to get a complete count of all farmers and ranchers,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Every response matters. Even if a respondent doesn’t think the survey applies to their farm, we’d ask that they respond to the few screening questions.” NASS encourages recipients to respond securely online at agcounts.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Biofuels The USDA is awarding grants worth $19 million to American businesses to increase the availability of biofuels in 22 states and give Americans cleaner and more affordable options at gas station pumps. Blending ethanol into gasoline has helped reduce fuel costs by approximately 25 percent, contributing to falling gas prices across the country. Gas prices are now under $2.99 in more than half of U.S. states and save the average driver more than $100 per month relative to peak prices. The agency is making the awards through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program. “By increasing the supply of biofuels made here in the U.S., we are strengthening our energy independence, lowering costs for American families, creating new streams of income for agricultural producers, and bringing good-paying jobs to people in rural communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The investments will help business owners install and upgrade biofuels infrastructure, including pumps. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Would Support Organic Dairy Farmers Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME), a longtime organic farmer and House Ag Committee member, and Marc Molinaro (R-NY) introduced legislation to support organic dairy farmers. The Organic Dairy Data Collection Act would enhance data collection at USDA to better understand the costs associated with producing organic milk. “International trade challenges, adverse weather, and skyrocketing organic feed costs have created a dire economic situation for organic dairy farmers across the U.S.,” Pingree says. “These unique challenges require tailored solutions.” The bipartisan bill will help USDA better understand and address the challenges organic dairy farmers face. The bill directs USDA to collect and publish cost-of-production data for organic milk. It directs NASS to gather and report monthly data about the amounts that organic dairy farmers are being paid for organic milk. It also orders USDA, NASS, and the Economic Research Service to publish reports on the cost of production data by state and region. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Awards Distinguished Service Honors Frank Lucas (R-OK) and former Iowa Farm Bureau President Craig Hill received the American Farm Bureau’s 2023 Distinguished Service Award and Farm Bureau Founders Award, respectively. The awards are the highest honors presented by AFBF. Lucas and Hill will be recognized during the 2024 American Farm Bureau Convention January 17-24 in Salt Lake City, Utah. AFB established the Distinguished Service Award in 1928 to honor individuals who have devoted their careers to serving the national interest in American agriculture. First presented in January 2017, the AFBF Founder’s Award for exemplary leadership, service, or contributions to Farm Bureau is presented in recognition of outstanding achievements and work in the interest of Farm Bureau. Lucas is a fifth-generation Oklahoma farmer and Congressman who’s been a defender of agriculture for over 40 years. Hill was the longest-serving member of the Iowa Farm Bureau Board of Directors before retiring as president in December 2021. *********************************************************************************** Combines See Solid Sales Gains Late in 2023 Combine harvester sales closed out the year ahead of 2022 levels, while almost all tractor segments saw declines in both the U.S. and Canada. The latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. farm tractor sales fell 5.1 percent in December compared to 2022, while year-to-date sales came in 8.7 percent lower than the previous year. However, 100+ horsepower tractors grew 5.2 percent for the year and 3.6 percent in December. Combine harvesters finished 2023 with sales up 1.7 percent last month. The sub-40 horsepower segment led the yearly losses, falling 11 percent in 2023 on the heels of a 5.8 percent drop in December. For Canada, four-wheel drive farm tractor sales jumped 65 percent in December and finished the year up 44 percent overall. Overall unit tractor sales finished 2023 down 14 percent for December and 10.7 percent overall. AEM is still confident about long-term sales growth.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 12, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index for December will be out at 7:30 a.m. Friday, one day after consumer prices were said to be up 3.4% from a year ago. USDA's WASDE, December 1 Grain Stocks and Winter Wheat Seedings reports are set for release at 11 a.m. CST. U.S. grain and livestock futures close at their normal times Friday and are closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Grain futures will trade next at 7 p.m. CST on Monday. Weather The second big storm of the week is moving into the Midwest Friday morning and will quickly deepen. It has already started to produce heavy snow from eastern Nebraska to Lake Michigan early morning and will expand from there. The deepening low-pressure system will create strong winds and blizzard conditions in the snow. To the south, heavy rain and thunderstorms have developed in the Mississippi Valley and will move east throughout the day. The rain will help to ease drought, but thunderstorms may be severe with strong winds the primary threat. Very cold, arctic air continues to spread through the Plains behind the system.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 11, 2024 |
Agri-Pulse Poll Shows Farmers Support Donald Trump A new poll from Agri-Pulse and Stratovation Group finds farmers and ranchers support electing Donald Trump to another term as president. The effort shows 39 percent of surveyed farmers say they would most likely vote for Trump, while 19 percent indicated they would vote for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Just eight percent of surveyed farmers say they would vote for President Joe Biden. Of the 605 farmers that participated in the survey, 61 percent identified as Republicans, with 45 percent of that group favoring Trump. Ten percent of the survey participants identified as Democrats with 62 percent of those farmers supporting Biden. Another 18 percent of farmers identified as independents. Stratovation Group conducted the study between December 14-22, 20243, including farmers and ranchers from the Midwest, South and California. The first presidential primary vote comes Monday as Republicans hold the Iowa Caucus. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Imports Reach 6-year High U.S. wheat imports are forecasted to be at their highest in six years for the 2023/24 marketing year, according to USDA's Economic Research Service. Consecutive years of drought in key U.S. growing regions of hard red winter wheat have tapered U.S. output, elevating domestic prices. Millers have sought less expensive sources, including competitively priced wheat from the European Union. U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat, mostly from the EU, for 2023/24 are at 25 million bushels, a record high, and up from five million bushels from 2022/23. This trade flow is atypical as U.S. wheat imports are normally driven by hard red spring and durum wheat from neighboring Canada. In 2017/18, imports from Canada of both classes of wheat were elevated because of drought-related supply issues in the United States. While U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat are elevated in 2023/24, imports of soft red winter and white wheat are relatively close to normal levels. *********************************************************************************** Without More Funding, FCC Winding Down Broadband Program The Federal Communications Commission plans to start winding down the Affordable Connectivity Program as funding for the effort dries up. The FCC has emphasized the need for additional funding for program, and the White House recently made an additional funding request to Congress for $6 billion to keep the program going. With less than four months before the projected program end date and without any immediate additional funding, this week, the Commission expects to begin taking steps to start winding down the program to give households, providers, and other stakeholders sufficient time to prepare. FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel says in a letter to lawmakers, “If Congress does not provide additional funding for the ACP in the near future, millions of households will lose the ACP benefit that they use to afford internet service.” While Congress initially appropriated $14.2 billion for the ACP, more funding is needed to keep the program in place. The FCC expects funding to last through April 2024, running out completely in May. *********************************************************************************** Losses Projected for Lower Rio Grande Valley Due to Water Shortages A recent report by Texas A&M estimates a potential 2024 total loss in economic output of over $993.2 million due to the absence of irrigation water for crop production in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. The report examines the total economic impact on the region's agricultural production, which consists of row crops (and specialty crops absent irrigation water. In terms of employment, it would result in an estimated loss of over 8,000 jobs. The lack of irrigation water is in large part due to Mexico's failure to deliver water to the U.S. per the 1944 Water Treaty. According to the report, the current Mexican water deficit is the second-largest deficit in the last three decades. The Treaty obligates Mexico to deliver a minimum of 350,000 acre-feet annually, as an average, on a five-year cycle. Now in year four of the current five-year cycle, Mexico owes over 736,000 acre-feet of water. Because of the lack of water, the Texas International Produce Association reports vegetable and fruit plantings are down 25 – 100 percent, depending on the corp. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports First Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Earnings CHS Inc., the nation's leading agribusiness cooperative, released results for its first quarter this week, which ended November 30, 2023. The company reported quarterly net income of $522.9 million compared to $782.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023. Earnings were strong across all segments, although down from record first quarter earnings in fiscal year 2023. Revenues were $11.4 billion, compared to $12.8 billion in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023. In the Ag segment, continued robust meal and oil demand drove strong earnings in our oilseed processing business that were offset by weak U.S. export demand for grains and oilseeds. CHS President and CEO Jay Debertin says, "We continue to see the benefits of our diversified agriculture and energy portfolio, our strategic footprint, and investments in our supply chain." CHS reported pretax earnings of $169.7 million for agriculture, representing a $117.6 million decrease compared to the prior year period. *********************************************************************************** Nearly 21 Million Children Expected to Receive New Grocery Benefit This Summer The Department of Agriculture this week announced that 35 states, all five U.S. territories, and four tribes plan to be the first to launch the new, permanent summer grocery benefits program for children. Known as Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer, the program in 2024 will serve close to 21 million children, providing nearly $2.5 billion in grocery benefits. This is around 70 percent of the total population of children eligible for Summer EBT. Through the program, states will provide families with $120 per eligible child for the summer to buy food at grocery stores, farmers markets or other authorized retailers – similar to how SNAP benefits are used. Participating tribes will provide a benefit of the same amount that can be used to buy food at WIC-authorized retailers. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Together we’re making progress in closing the summer hunger gap and ensuring children are nourished and healthy year-round.” USDA expects additional states and tribes will provide Summer EBT in 2025.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 11, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the consumer price index for December and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Treasury Department's federal budget statement at 2 p.m. Weather A strong storm will develop in the Southern Plains on Thursday, on the leading edge of the cold air of the polar vortex. The storm system will deepen over the Midwest on Friday and bring a swath of heavy snow from around Nebraska through Michigan. Strong winds developing with the system will create blizzard conditions in the heavy snow. Meanwhile, strong thunderstorms are possible again across the South-Central states Thursday and the Southeast on Friday. Arctic air has already started to leak into the Northern Plains and will spread out across the country behind this system.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 10, 2024 |
Consumers to Focus on Labels in 2024 The International Food Information Council’s annual food trends forecast predicts consumers will focus more on label claims this year. The report suggests the industry should expect a heightened emphasis on transparent food labeling, empowering shoppers to make informed decisions about the foods and beverages they consume. Labels such as clean, cold-pressed, and fermented, which consumers associate with healthfulness, will continue to be at the forefront. Actions by the Food and Drug Administration are bringing Americans closer to an updated definition of a “healthy” food. As far as consumers are concerned, the most common attributes they believe define a healthy food are fresh, low in sugar and good source of protein. IFIC’s Kris Sollid says, “Front-of-Package nutrition labeling will be a major focus in 2024 as U.S. food regulators roll out a new labeling proposal to help shoppers make easier, quicker, and healthier food decisions.” The proposal will spur a national conversation about the importance of reading food labels and the factors beyond labeling that influence personal food choices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reminds Producers of Upcoming Discrimination Financial Assistance Deadline The Department of Agriculture this week reminded farmers, ranchers and forest landowners that January 13, 2024, is the deadline to apply for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program. The program is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, which provided $2.2 billion in funding. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs before January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred before January 1, 2021, are eligible for the program. Applications may be submitted online through the program website at 22007apply.gov, in person at a DFAP local office, or by mail. The full list of offices and their operating hours can be found on the application website. After receiving feedback from potential applicants in September, USDA extended the deadline to January 13, 2024. This provided potential applicants six months to prepare applications. The previous deadline was October 31, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Court Upholds Iowa Agriculture Trespass Laws The 8th Circuit Court unanimously overruled a District Court and upheld Iowa’s 2019 and 2021 agriculture trespass laws as constitutional this week. After several organizations challenged the new law, the district court concluded that the intent requirement renders the law “viewpoint-based” and unconstitutional under the First Amendment. In the ruling, the 8th Circuit Court said, “We respectfully disagree, and therefore reverse.” The lawsuit was filed by groups including the Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety, among others. Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig responded, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” Critics described the laws as “ag-gag” laws, seeking to criminalize efforts to access and secretly record alleged animal abuse on farms. *********************************************************************************** Leaked Snake River Memo Springs Irrigation Concerns A leaked memo outlining mediation options for Lower Snake River dams has agriculture sounding alarm bells, especially those who rely on the river to irrigate. The solutions seek to improve fish population and reverse effects of hydroelectric power generation. However, Irrigation Today reports the solutions would decrease the energy availability and the water resource infrastructure dependent on the system's current framework. Nathan Bowen of the Irrigation Association says, "The proposed changes to the river system, particularly the breaching of dams, would have a dramatic impact on irrigated agriculture in the region." A letter from Pacific Northwest lawmakers regarding the leaked memo states, “Due to the document’s use of vague and imprecise language, it appears susceptible to misinterpretation.” The lawmakers expressed concerns with the outlined solutions in the memo, which includes language from the federal government stating that the solutions outlined in the memo must “be the path forward.” The concerns are not new, with legal battles pertaining to the system spanning decades. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Apricot Production Trends Lower Data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows U.S. apricot production is declining significantly. Their production has been decreasing since the 1990s in response to falling U.S. consumption, especially for processed apricots. Commercial production is concentrated on the West Coast, with California representing 90 percent of apricot production in 2023. The U.S. apricot industry has experienced a long-term downward trend in bearing acreage, falling 62 percent over the past 20 years. Growing competition from imports of processed apricot products and a general increase in consumption for all fresh fruit have encouraged growers to divert more of their acreage to higher valued commodities, resulting in fewer bearing acres of apricots and shifts in use. The downward trend in production has coincided with a decrease in the share of apricots used in the processing market. During the first three seasons of this decade, processed utilization has averaged 45 percent—down from 63 percent during the early 2010s and 89 percent in the early 1980s. *********************************************************************************** Grains Council Launches Website Highlighting Sustainability The U.S. Grains Council just released four new web pages focused on the organization's sustainability efforts. The web pages provide information and resources on the practices and technologies that contribute to the sustainability of U.S. farms and agribusinesses. The pages showcase USGC’s commitment to global climate efforts and how it is working with its members and international stakeholders to address sustainability challenges in the food, feed, fuel and fiber international supply chains in which the products it represents participate. Carlos Suarez, USGC manager of sustainability, policy and innovation, says, “The Council is in a unique position to help barley, corn and sorghum farmers showcase their journey in adopting sustainable production practices and align with international supply chain requirements.” The Council's goal is to increase the volumes of sustainably-produced U.S. grains that reach international markets to support global food security and climate-smart international supply chains. Find the pages at grains.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 10, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Brazil's crop agency, Conab, will have new crop estimates out Wednesday, typically early morning. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CST. Traders remain attentive to South American weather forecasts and the world's events. Weather The first major winter storm of 2024 is exiting to the northeast on Wednesday, but it will not stay quiet long. The polar vortex is building over the western half of North America, pulling down arctic air into western Canada that will spill southeast behind an initially weak system across the Northern Plains on Wednesday into Thursday. The storm will become much stronger for Thursday and Friday, following a similar track to the one from early in the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 9, 2024 |
USDA Announces Market Development Program Investments for Fiscal Year 2024 The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding more than $200 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. The expansion efforts will happen through the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. “Over the year, we’ve seen the tremendous impact both MAP and FMD have on expanding U.S. exports to markets around the world,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “For each dollar invested in export market development, U.S. agricultural exports have increased by more than $24.” He calls these programs a “significant boost to the agricultural industry,” which, in turn, helps strengthen the economies of communities across the entire United States. Through MAP, FAS will provide $174.3 million for fiscal year 2024 to 68 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives. Under FMD, FAS will allocate $27 million to 20 trade organizations that represent American agricultural producers. To learn more, visit fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Philippines Extends Lower Tariff Rates on Pork Through 2024 The Philippines extended reduced tariff rates on imported pork for the third consecutive year. The in-quota duty remains 15 percent, while the out-of-quota rate is 25 percent. Under the lower tariffs and higher access volume, U.S. pork exports to the Philippines increased to a record $205 million in 2021, a 79 percent hike. But after the increased quota amount expired on January 31, 2022, exports fell that year to about $135 million, and for 2023 they will likely be around $120 million. The National Pork Producers Council says the Philippines is an important Asian market for America’s pork industry. With more than 109 million people and a cultural preference for pork, the island nation is a top ten market for U.S. pork exports. In May 2021, in response to a pork shortage caused by African Swine Fever, the Philippines first lowered the import duties and increased the minimum access volume. *********************************************************************************** Dietary Guidelines Committee to Meet The next meeting of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is on January 19, starting at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. It’s convened jointly by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. During the event, the committee will hear updates from each subcommittee and discuss progress made since the third public meeting. Some of the topics include protocol development, evidence review and synthesis, draft conclusion statements, and plans for future committee work. HHS and USDA invite the public to participate in this important event by registering in advance to view the livestream. A recorded version of the livestream will be posted on DietaryGuidelines.gov after the meeting. Since the first edition in 1980, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans provided science-based advice on what to eat and drink to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and meet nutrient needs. For more information, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Chronic Disease Linked to Food Security Adults in U.S. households that are less food secure are significantly more likely to have one or more chronic diseases, and the likelihood increases as food insecurity worsens. Researchers with the Economic Research Service looked at the rate of five chronic diseases across four levels of household food security, ranging from high food security to very low food security. High food security households have no problems or anxiety about consistently obtaining adequate food. Very low food-secure households feature eating patterns of one or more household members that got disrupted and reduced their food intake. From 2019-2022, the predicted illness prevalence among the five chronic diseases examined was 3.6 to 9.5 percentage points higher for adults in very low food-secure households compared to those with high food-secure households. For example, hypertension was found in 36 percent of very low food secure households, showing that food security status and health are closely linked. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Continue New Year Declines For the second straight week, GasBuddy says the nation’s average price of gasoline has declined, falling 3.8 cents from a week ago to $3.03 per gallon. “Sluggish gasoline demand has led to the national average easing again and brings back the potential for the national average to drift under $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “With a record rise in gasoline inventories last week as demand was anemic during the holidays, motorists have provided the catalyst for falling prices.” He also says if demand remains weak, it’s possible gasoline prices could fall further. In addition, refinery issues in California have also eased, which will soon cause prices to decline in California, Nevada, and Arizona, possibly providing momentum for a $2.99 national average. However, the better it gets now, the sharper the rise could be ahead of spring, as prices could start rising by mid-February. *********************************************************************************** Taylor Leading Trade Mission to India USDA’s Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to India from April 22-25. USDA is now accepting applications from U.S. exporters who wish to join the trade delegation. “There is no larger untapped market in the world for U.S. agriculture than India and its 1.4 billion consumers,” Taylor says. “We achieved notable tariff reductions this year on chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, frozen turkey, and many other products that will open market opportunities for U.S. farmers in the world’s most populous country.” Total U.S. agricultural and related product exports to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka exceeded $2.5 billion in 2022. January through October 2023 exports reached more than $1.7 billion. India leads the region as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The deadline to apply for the India trade mission is Monday, January 22. For information and to apply, go to fas.usda.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 9, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets While a winter storm works eastward across the U.S., traders remain attentive to the latest forecasts for South America. The U.S. Commerce Department's trade deficit for November is set for 7:30 a.m. CST, the source of ag export data USDA will make available later Tuesday morning. The Energy Department's Short-term Energy Outlook is due out Tuesday. Weather A major winter storm continues to build across the middle of the country but is pushing east for Tuesday, which is spreading heavy snow across the Midwest and heavy rain for the East Coast. With strong winds circling the low-pressure center, blowing and drifting snow along with near-blizzard conditions will continue in the Plains and Midwest and create other hazards for those in the South and East. Heavy showers and thunderstorms may be severe in the Southeast. Another large winter storm is going through the Pacific Northwest with widespread heavy snow and wind, but will be weaker as it crosses the Rockies into the Northern Plains and Prairies later today
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 8, 2024 |
Food Price Index Drops in December The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization says world food prices dropped in December. The Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the prices of globally traded commodities, averaged 188.5 points in December, down 1.5 percent from November and 10 percent lower than December 2022. For 2023, the index was 13.7 percent lower than the average value of 2022, with only the international sugar price index higher during the period. The Cereal Price Index rose 1.5 percent from November, but the yearly index was 15 percent below 2022. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.4 percent from November, and for the year was 33 percent below 2022. The Sugar Price Index dropped 17 percent from November, but still finished 15 percent higher than December 2022. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent from November, hitting a level of two percent below December 2022. The Dairy Index rose 1.6 percent from November. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Associates Launch Stewardship Video Series The time and effort American farmers put into caring for the land makes for a story that isn’t shared often enough. A new video series from U.S. Wheat Associates aims to change that for overseas wheat buyers by focusing on how producers help feed the world while also acting as stewards of soil, water, and the environment. USW’s “Stories of Stewardship” project goes right to the source. Five wheat farmers in five different states appear on camera from their farms to talk about their work and to assure economic security for the next generation of farmers by leaving their land in better shape than it was when they started farming it. “Consumers around the world want to know how their food is grown, and U.S. wheat is definitely a food ingredient,” says USW Vice President of Communications Steve Mercer. Stories of Stewardship can be seen on the USW website and Facebook page. *********************************************************************************** USGC Touts U.S. Corn Quality in China The U.S. Grains Council’s office in Beijing, China, recently hit the road to present the 2023-2024 Corn Harvest Quality Report, discuss sorghum opportunities, and protect market share for U.S. coarse grains. The Council conducted a corn quality roadshow and seminar in two of China’s most populated provinces. “More than 60 traders and end-users from all over China attended our seminar to learn about the harvest quality of our 2023-2024 U.S. corn crop and other critical topics affecting the global coarse-grain market,” says Manuel Sanchez, USGC Director in China. “As one of the primary destinations for American corn and sorghum, it’s vital that the Council engage with customers in China to share the latest market information.” In addition to reviewing the report, the seminars welcomed speakers who discussed the challenges and opportunities for corn globally, the current drought hitting the Panama Canal, and a 2023 U.S. sorghum harvest and market outlook. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Weather Staying Warmer and Drier Than Normal The Midwest Climate Hub says warm and dry was the theme during December in the North Central U.S. There have been exceptions, including a Christmas system that dropped multiple inches of precipitation in certain areas. The region saw both one and two-class improvements and degradations in drought status, and concerns are starting to weigh heavily on whether soil moisture will be recharged this winter. The next three to five months are expected to follow a typical El Niño weather pattern overall. That means temperatures will lean warmer for the region, and conditions will be drier for the northern and eastern states in the Midwest. It’s about the 180th week of D1 drought in parts of Iowa, which is the longest stretch since the 1950s. Exceptional drought continues in southeast Nebraska, with some places in exceptional drought for the past five months. Temps have been above normal for the last 30 days. *********************************************************************************** ALB Holding Targeted Grazing Workshops Paid grazing contracts present a tremendous opportunity for the growth of the U.S. sheep flock and improving the availability and price competitiveness of American lamb. It’s also an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through green energy production and biological vegetation management. Training is needed to ensure sheep producers are prepared to take advantage of these grazing contract opportunities. “Improving the sustainability of the U.S. sheep industry through profitable growth is a top priority of the American Lamb Board,” says ALB Chair Peter Camino (kah-MEE-know). “ALB is committed to ensuring new and experienced shepherds receive education and resources to become successful contract grazers.” ALB’s grazing workshops will outline new and existing opportunities through targeted grazing across the U.S., including fire suppression, vineyards, and solar grazing. From animal performance to contracts and business setup, the workshops will cover the information they need to be successful service providers. For more information, go to americanlambboard.com. *********************************************************************************** Millions of Birds Die During Two Years of Bird Flu One-fourth of America’s bird flu losses during outbreaks beginning in early 2022 were recorded during the final quarter of 2023. USDA data says that’s when the disease staged a resurgence. Approximately 20.9 million birds were culled in infected domestic flocks from October through December to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Successful Farming says bird flu hit egg farmers so hard that prices in 2022 soared 32 percent above the average in 2021. That’s the largest increase for any food categories USDA tracked during a year of high food inflation. As flocks got rebuilt, egg prices rose marginally in 2023 and are expected to fall 12 percent this year. A total of 79.7 million domestic birds, mostly egg-laying hens and turkeys being raised for human consumption, died in HPAI outbreaks or eradication efforts since February 2022. Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 1,059 flocks in 47 states.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 8, 2024 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Winter Storm, WASDE and More 1. WASDE Friday: This week marks the release of several important USDA reports, including the "final" corn and soybean yield and production numbers of the 2023 U.S. crop season. The January 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. Our preview expectations for the report will be available mid-week. 2. Big storm coming: A broad winter storm rolls into the upper Plains early in the week. As DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick noted in his latest Ag Weather Forum blog, this is really the first concentrated monster storm of the season. Livestock health is one of the chief concerns, as this storm will be for some areas the first bitter taste of winter some animals will get. 3. Speaking of weather: Grain traders continue to watch how South American crop conditions are shaping up, as that part of the world continues to be the market trend maker. We'll have updates in a number of spots, from the Ag Weather Forum blog to our daily market commentary. DTN customers should know that the latest global market conditions lead to us finishing up marketing of the 2023 corn crop this past week, while we continue to recommend holding a bit of soybean harvest. T 4. Cattle looking for news: A New Year uptick in cattle futures prices that started this past week ran out of gas by week's end. We'll watch for potential weather-driven trade disruption, though the general call is for steady prices in live trade and limited sales activity. 5. Economic reports to watch: On Monday, weekly grain inspections will be released at 10 a.m. The latest Consumer Credit report is out at 2 p.m. On Tuesday, the latest trade deficit numbers are at 7:30 a.m. Final field crop estimates will be released at 2 p.m. Wholesale inventories are out Wednesday at 9 a.m., with the weekly petroleum report at 10 a.m. That report includes ethanol production and inventory. On Thursday, economic attention turns to the Initial Jobless Claims report, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI numbers, all due at 8:30 a.m. U.S. grain export sales will be released at 7:30 a.m., with Hogs and Pigs Final Estimates out at 2 p.m. Finally, Friday kicks off with the Producer Price Index (PPI) and Core PPI out at 7:30 a.m. At 11 a.m. is WASDE, January Crop Production, the Dec. 1 Grain Stocks numbers and winter wheat seedings.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 8, 2024 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to monitor South American weather and Middle East tensions. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CST, the only significant report on Monday. Weather A storm system has been building from Sunday night into early Monday across the Central and Southern Plains, bringing a mix of rain and snow to the region. The storm will turn into a monster by midday and shift to the Mississippi Valley overnight. Widespread impacts including severe weather across the Gulf Coast, heavy snow and blizzard conditions from the southwestern Plains to the Midwest with strong winds elsewhere, and flooding rain will create a host of issues for travel and anyone or anything that is outdoors.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 5, 2024 |
Over 1,250 Producers Qualify Under Prop 12 The California Department of Food and Agriculture says there are more than 1,250 agricultural producers and distributors in compliance with Proposition 12. After multiple delays brought on by court challenges and the need for a Supreme Court ruling, Prop 12 is now in effect. The CDFA says the more than 1,250 producers are prepared the meet the state’s demand for cage-free eggs and crate-free pork after the measure took full effect on January 1. California voters initially approved Prop 12 in November 2018, with the provisions originally intended to be in place by January 2022. “Final implementation of Prop 12 not only provides the prospect of dramatically better living conditions for pigs in U.S. agriculture, but it also all provides a critical market for thousands of pig farmers who don’t rely on immobilizing crates as a routine animal-housing practice,” says Wayne Pacelle, a Prop 12 architect and president of Animal Wellness Action. *********************************************************************************** Missouri Bans Foreign Ownership of Some Farmland Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a ban on agricultural land purchases by citizens and businesses from six nations if the property is within ten miles of critical military facilities. Parson says he had countries like “China and other adversarial nations” in mind when issuing an executive order on the topic. The order puts the state Ag Department in charge of reviewing all proposed purchases of farmland by foreigners The Ag Department is to deny all proposed purchases within ten miles of military facilities by entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. Missouri is the latest state to restrict foreign ownership of U.S. farmland amid rising international tensions. Arkansas recently ordered Syngenta, owned by ChemChina, to sell a 160-acre research farm. Foreign investors own 43.4 million acres, or 3.4 percent of privately-held agricultural land, which includes 474,000 acres in Missouri. The executive order doesn’t affect existing farmland ownership. *********************************************************************************** Weather Mixed in Winter Wheat Country A USDA report says December weather was a mixed bag for winter wheat producers. Timely precipitation in major wheat-growing states like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas boosted the crop. In Kansas, the top-producing state, about 43 percent of the hard-red crop was in good or excellent condition in December. Thirty-six percent was in fair condition, with the rest poor to very poor. An average of 2.7 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma last month, with more than three inches in west central counties. While no condition report was available, 22 percent of the state was suffering from drought, down from 47 percent three months earlier and 90 percent a year ago. In Colorado, 61 percent of the winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition, up from 50 percent last year. In Arkansas, where soft-red winter wheat is grown, topsoil moisture was 69 percent surplus and 26 percent was adequate. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments in Risk-Management Training The USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced that $3 million is available for cooperative growth agreements to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on risk management. The educational opportunities can also include climate-smart practices. RMA’s Risk Management Education Partnerships provide funding for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities to develop training and resources for producers about risk management options like crop insurance. “This funding is integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” Bunger also says they want to work directly with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and applying them to the farming business. A broad range of risk management activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options and others. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for the Animal Agriculture Alliance Summit Registration is now open for the 2024 Animal Agriculture Alliance Stakeholders Summit. The event features dozens of speakers, hundreds of perspectives, and countless ideas. That’s just the starting line of the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s Summit. The group says, “It’s going to take a team to drive our future forward. It takes everyone running alongside their fellow stakeholders from across the food chain who know that putting in the work is the only way to transform today’s challenges into tomorrow’s solutions.” The annual Stakeholders Summit is a one-of-a-kind conference attended by a very diverse group. Stakeholders in attendance include representatives from farms, ranches, allied industries, food processors, restaurants, grocery stores, legislatures, universities, government agencies, and media members. The AAA is also excited to announce that Amanda Lucey, CEO of The Partnership, a marketing and brand communications agency, will serve as this year’s moderator for the event. For information, go to animalagalliance.org. *********************************************************************************** Women in Ag Tech Meeting This Month Women in Ag Tech announced its second in-person meeting on January 21-22 will take place during The VISION Conference at the Glendale Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. Women in Ag Tech (WAT) continues to champion opportunities for women in agricultural technology and foster a vibrant community through mentorship, idea exchanges, and collaboration. The event promises an enriching experience for attendees, featuring a keynote address, panel discussions, and interactive sessions led by industry professionals. Lara Sowinski of CropLife Media Group will lead the meeting. An FBI Special Agent will deliver the keynote called “Cultivating Resistance: A Women in Ag Tech’s Insights on Food Safety, Cybersecurity, and Leadership in STEM.” The Women in Ag Tech meetings aren’t about only sitting and listening. “Here, we come together as women to actively learn, engage, and support one another,” Sowinski says. “It’s a fresh and dynamic approach, setting it apart from the usual conference experience.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 5, 2024 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, the same time as the Labor Department's nonfarm payrolls and unemployment rate for December. A report on U.S. factory orders for November follows at 9 a.m. Traders will remain attentive to South American weather and tensions in the Middle East. Weather A storm system that developed in the Central and Southern Plains on Thursday has brought areas of rain and snow into early Friday. That storm system will continue eastward for Friday, getting into the Southeast for Saturday. The storm may clip the southern end of the Midwest and some lighter snow will be possible farther north in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 4, 2024 |
Analysis: Corn Futures Fall More Than 30% in 2023 Grain futures ended 2023 significantly in the red, with corn futures suffering their biggest yearly drop in a decade, according to a new analysis by the University of Illinois' Farm Policy website. Wheat and soybeans also posted steep declines in 2024 following bumper harvests in Brazil and resilient Black Sea trade. The most active corn contract was down 31 percent in 2023, while wheat was down 21 percent, and soybeans were down 15 percent. Mike Zuzolo, president of Global Commodity Analytics, adds, "In 2024, producers are going to be a lot more concerned about their input costs, and that is where beans play a much better role for them." The Department of Agriculture also expects soybean acres to increase in 2024, with the November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report predicting that U.S. farmers will plant 87 million acres of soybeans in 2024, an increase of 3.4 million acres. Corn acres are expected to be 91 million acres, a decrease of 3.9 million acres, according to the USDA. *********************************************************************************** USDA and USTR Seek New Trade Advisory Committee Members The. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees. Members of the committee provide advice to the administration on the implementation and enforcement of existing U.S. trade agreements, negotiation of new agreements, and other trade policy matters. Members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees, or ATACs, provide technical advice and recommendations on international trade issues that affect specific agricultural commodity sectors. The ATACs focus on trade in Animals and animal products, fruits and vegetables, grains, feed, oilseeds, planting seeds, processed foods, Sweeteners and sweetener products, tobacco, cotton, peanuts, and hemp. Applicants must have U.S. agriculture expertise and international trade experience to be considered for committee membership. Committee members serve four-year terms and represent a cross-section of U.S. food and agricultural stakeholders. Application instructions are available on USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service website. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2024. *********************************************************************************** SNAP Participation Varied Across States in Fiscal Year 2022 New data released by USDA's Economic Research Service shows that in fiscal year 2022, USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program served an average of 41.1 million people per month in the 50 states and Washington, DC. SNAP is the largest domestic nutrition assistance program, accounting for about two-thirds of USDA spending on food and nutrition assistance in recent years. The SNAP participation rate increased nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic to a high of 12.5 percent of the resident population of the 50 States and DC in fiscal year 2021. The fiscal year 2022 rate fell slightly to 12.3 percent. SNAP participation varies across states because of differences in program administration and economic conditions. In fiscal year 2022, the share of residents receiving SNAP benefits in each state ranged from as high as 24.5 percent in New Mexico to as low as 4.6 percent in Utah. In 35 States, the share was somewhere between eight and 16 percent. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Demand for Organic Cotton Growing Demand for organic cotton in the U.S. is growing, but imports continue to pick up the slack of inadequate domestic production. A new project led by Texas A&M AgriLife Research aims to turn the situation around by identifying the challenges and opportunities for U.S. organic cotton growers. The study, Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach on Organic Regenerative Practices, is funded by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant. Researchers expect the study to help U.S. organic cotton producers determine how to improve yields, productivity, and sustainability in their existing fields and transition more acreage into organic production. Organizers say, "We want to understand what their production challenges are, how they are managing them, what works and what doesn't, and how their practices are impacting the soil and output long-term." With no synthetic herbicides allowed, the project will identify other methods that might minimize the tillage needed for weed control. *********************************************************************************** Workshop Series for Veterans Focuses on Agritourism Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. The course is free for active military service members and military veterans. Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism through Farm Stores,” starts February 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option. Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center, says, "During the on-farm sessions, experienced farmers will go through the ins and outs of on- and off-site farm stores, how they set up their on-farm buying experiences, and challenges they have faced." Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems, and more. Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism, such as poultry, pork, beef, and beekeeping, will be available to assist participants throughout the course's online platform. Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions, online. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Farm Bureau to Host Urban Ag Conference State Farm Bureau officials in Minnesota are focusing on urban agriculture with an upcoming conference next week. The Minnesota Farm Bureau will host an Urban Agriculture Conference on the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities on Saturday, January 13. The free event will focus on issues related to urban agriculture, including land access, water access and funding. The event features speakers from USDA, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, the Minnesota Farm Bureau, state educational faculty, and elected officials from the state. Other topics include roof-top solar arrays, hydroponics, urban planning and urban food systems. Another session will focus on technical assistance on how to apply for grants and other funding. Organizers say they may hold similar events in places like Duluth, St. Cloud and other parts of the state to expand their outreach to urban farmers. Registration for the event is available on the Minnesota Farm Bureau website.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 4, 2024 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 10 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on South American weather and events in the Middle East. Weather A storm system will move out of the Southwest and into the Central and Southern Plains on Thursday, bringing a mix of rain and snow to the region. Other areas of the country will be rather quiet outside of the West, where showers will continue.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 3, 2024 |
U.S. Farmer Sentiment Stable As Inflation Expectations Subside Farmer sentiment changed very little in December compared to the preceding month. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer recorded a reading of 114, just one point lower than a month earlier. Both sub-indices of the barometer, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, also fell one point below their respective November readings. The Current Conditions Index for December was 112, while the Future Expectations Index was 115. All three indices were weaker than in December 2022, with the barometer falling ten percent below a year earlier. Farmers still pointed to input costs at year-end as their top concern for the year ahead, but the percentage of farmers choosing the risk of lower crop and/or livestock prices rose from just 16 percent in January to 26 percent in December. Inflation expectations among farmers moderated during 2023. Compared to a year earlier, far fewer producers expect inflation to exceed six percent in the new year, and a large majority look for inflation to average less than four percent in 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Reconvene FMMO Hearings The Department of Agriculture (USDA) will reconvene the national public hearing to consider proposals seeking to amend the uniform pricing formulas applicable in all 11 Federal milk marketing orders. The process will restart January 16, lasting through January 19th, and reconvene again on the 29th, if needed. The hearing began August 23, 2023, and is being held in Carmel, Indiana. Copies of the notice to reconvene, guidelines for participating, and exhibits entered during the hearing are available on the National Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula Hearing webpage. Proponents contend that the uniform FMMO pricing formulas should be amended, as significant changes in the dairy industry and milk marketing have occurred since their adoption in the early 2000s. Forty proposals were submitted by stakeholders for consideration. Of those, 21 directly impact the uniform pricing formulas and are being considered at the hearing. Dairy producers may testify in person at any time during the hearing. *********************************************************************************** National Agricultural Law Center Recaps Top 2023 Issues The Waters of the U.S. rule rewrite topped the list of agricultural issues for the National Agricultural Law Center in 2023. While WOTUS was the top issue for 2024, California’s Proposition 12 came in second, with the one-year Farm Bill extension third. The organization listed EPA’s rollout of the Endangered Species Protection Program and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act fourth. Other top issues include the Arkansas foreign ownership of land restrictions, competition in the livestock sector and water use from the Colorado River. Right to repair gained traction as farmers continued to advocate for the right to access manufacturer-controlled tools and information. The list rounds out with growth in the industrial hemp sector and civil litigation over pesticides, such as glyphosate exposure. The organization expects corporate transparency rules requiring disclosure of ownership interests in companies, proposed H-2A changes and a myriad of issues before the Supreme Court as ones to watch for 2024. *********************************************************************************** GE Crops Dominate U.S. Soybean, Cotton, and Corn Acres New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows Genetically engineered crops dominate the U.S. agriculture sector. Genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the United States for major field crops in 1996, with adoption rates increasing rapidly in the following years. The two main GE trait types are herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant. USDA reports information on GE crops in the data product Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States. The data shows that by 2008, more than 50 percent of corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with at least one GE seed trait. Today, more than 90 percent of those acres are planted using at least one GE trait. Other traits have been developed, including resistance to viruses, fungi, and drought or enhanced protein, oil, or vitamin content. While herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, most GE acres are occupied by three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** Programs offer U.S. Dairy Farmers Carbon-Asset Payments Three carbon projects initiated in 2021 and 2022 issued nearly $3 million in carbon-asset payments to U.S. dairy farmers who used Agolin® Ruminant to create verified emissions reductions. A verified emissions reduction is a carbon asset that can be used as an offset or within a value chain. It represents one metric ton of greenhouse gas emissions equivalent that is either avoided or removed from the atmosphere through an intervention that has been independently verified as part of a carbon reduction project. Agolin Ruminant is a proprietary blend of essential oils that improves milk production and feed efficiency in beef and dairy cattle. Concord Agriculture Partners has chosen Agolin Ruminant to create a new carbon inset project, which guarantees that participating dairy producers will receive an industry-leading 85 percent of the gross value of the carbon asset. Alltech, a global leader in agriculture, acquired a majority interest in Agolin SA in May 2023. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Start 2024 With Decline Fuel prices began the new year declining after a late-year increase during the holiday season. GasBuddy reports the nation's average gasoline price reverted, falling 1.6 cents from a week ago to $3.06 per gallon. The national average is down 17.3 cents from a month ago and 12.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 4.5 cents last week and stands at $3.96 per gallon—71 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The good news continues for average diesel prices, which slipped below $4 per gallon again and stand at their lowest level since the summer." Crude oil prices were up sharply in the first trading session of 2024, as the U.S. waged an attack on Houthi (who-thee) militants, downing three Houthi ships from a U.S. military helicopter. Forecasts projecting a rise in Chinese demand for its February Lunar New Year may have been boosting optimism and oil prices in early trade as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 3, 2024 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets After Tuesday's bearish closes, traders will remain fixated on anything weather-related for South America will continue to watch for private estimates of Brazil's soybean production, ahead of next week's updates from Conab and USDA. International indices of manufacturing will roll in overnight from various countries, followed by a manufacturing index for the U.S. at 9 a.m. The Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out Thursday, due to this week's holiday schedule. Weather A small disturbance moving along the Gulf Coast will make for some significant showers for Wednesday, easing drought in the southern Delta a little bit. A larger storm system is moving through the Western U.S. that will create a bigger storm for the southern tier of the country starting on Thursday. Light snow will also move through the Great Lakes.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 2, 2024 |
K-State Researchers Make Gluten Breakthrough Kansas State University researchers report a breakthrough in developing wheat-based foods that contain lower amounts of gluten. It’s a discovery that could lessen the adverse effects of celiac (SEE-lee-ak) and other autoimmune diseases. Scientists from Kansas State, the Agricultural Research Service, and in partnership with Kansas Wheat successfully used the gene-editing technique called CRISPR (crisper) to reduce the presence of two types of gluten-coding genes. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small intestine and the small fingerlike projections that help the body absorb nutrients. Researchers admitted they were surprised that once the genes got edited, it reduced the immunotoxicity. However, gluten won’t be completely removed from wheat as it’s important for bread making. While the reduced gluten level achieved so far won’t make wheat safe for use, it’s an important step forward. *********************************************************************************** Farm Equipment Dealers Expect a Tough 2024 The ag equipment market began a downward trend a year ago. Dealers say that 2024 might be their roughest year since COVID in 2020. The “Dealer Business Outlook and Trends Report” shows a combination of recovering inventories, high interest rates, and a general economic downturn that has dealers preparing to weather a storm in 2024. The new survey showed a significant drop in optimism in dealers’ new and used whole goods revenue forecasts, while parts and service revenue forecasts hit record highs. The dealers aren’t facing the kind of equipment shortages that dampened their optimism in the previous report, but price increases remain a factor despite falling from 2022 peaks. There is some degree of optimism remaining based on healthy farm financials and solid commodity prices. However, the question of how much cash farmers will bring into the new year remains in question. Revenue projections are negative as demand declines. *********************************************************************************** POET Reports a Successful 2023 POET, the world’s biggest ethanol producer, celebrated several milestones in 2023. That included multiple victories on the policy front, the grand reopening of its 34th facility, and completing the first-ever bioproducts innovation center. “In 2023, our POET team worked hard to lead the charge toward the bioeconomy of the future,” says Jeff Broin, Founder and CEO of POET. Early in 2023, the company announced that it will be growing its bioCO2 capabilities with expansions at two of its bioprocessing locations. They say it’s a testament to the company’s commitment to providing a renewable CO2 solution for its customers and creating more value from every bushel of grain. POET’s government relations efforts also played a role in securing several policy-related victories during the year. Also, Nebraska passed an E15 mandate, which unlocks access to E15 at Nebraska fueling stations and provides qualifying retailers with a tax credit for every gallon sold. *********************************************************************************** SD Pipeline Dividing Ethanol Proponents Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions wants to build a pipeline in South Dakota to transport carbon dioxide from Midwest ethanol plants to underground storage in North Dakota. The company wants to gather emissions from 32 ethanol plants, including some in South Dakota. The project would be eligible for federal tax credits incentivizing greenhouse gas sequestration. Summit says no pipeline would break the Midwest ethanol industry and calls pipeline opponents “anti-ethanol.” The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission denied a building permit for Summit last year, citing county setback law violations. Corn farmers who have long supported ethanol were alarmed by the company’s use of eminent domain to acquire private land for the pipeline from roughly 160 farmers. South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke (SOMB-kee) says members feel betrayed. They supported a growing ethanol industry before facing an infringement on their property rights. Sombke says he’s furious at farmers being called anti-ethanol. *********************************************************************************** Drought-Stricken Areas Getting Winter Precipitation Dry conditions continued across parts of the South while heavy precipitation fell across Oklahoma and parts of central and eastern Texas. Large parts of Texas and Oklahoma received between two and five inches of rainfall, which is 300 to 600 percent above normal. Average temperatures in the Midwest were well above normal, as many as ten to 25 degrees higher than typical temps. Much of the region also received above-normal precipitation, especially along the western parts of the region where the heaviest amounts reached two to four inches of rainfall, anywhere from one to three inches above normal The above-normal precipitation helped alleviate longer-term precipitation deficits in the region. Heavy precipitation fell over much of the eastern High Plains, where rainfall totals were greater than 600 percent of normal. Exceptional drought was improved in eastern Nebraska. Precipitation fell in most of the Southeast while the western U.S. remained status quo. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Two-Year High The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output surged to a two-year high, and inventories hit their highest points since April during the week ending on December 22. Ethanol production rose to an average of 1.107 million barrels per day, up from 1.071 during the prior week and the highest level since October 2021. The Midwest, which produces the most U.S. ethanol, increased its output to an average of 1.047 million barrels a day, up from 1.009 million a week earlier. That was all the gains during the week as East Coast production was unchanged at 12,000 barrels a day, and Rocky Mountain output held steady at 14,000 barrels. West Coast production remained at 10,000 barrels per day for the second straight week. Gulf Coast output dipped to 24,000 barrels from 26,000 the prior week. Ethanol inventories jumped to 23.517 million barrels during the week, the highest level since April 21.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 2, 2024 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend and starting a new year, traders will catch up on South American weather forecasts and any news that may have popped up over the New Year weekend. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CST Tuesday, followed by the NASS report of Fats and Oils at 2 p.m. Weather Much of the country will be quiet on Tuesday, though a weak system will develop over Texas with some showers and more will move into the West as well. Temperatures continue to be quite mild as we start the new year.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 29, 2023 |
December Rural Mainstreet Index Sank Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index sank below growth neutral for a fourth-straight month in December. Based on a survey of bank CEOs in a ten-state region, the index rose to 41.7 from November’s 40.4. That’s still lower than October’s 44.4. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 50 being growth neutral. Creighton University Economics Professor Ernie Goss says much of the rural economy is still getting pinched by higher interest rates. “Farming in the region is doing reasonably well,” Goss says. “However, agriculture sales abroad for the region are 14 percent lower.” Despite the fact that the Federal Reserve predicted possible rate cuts next year, bankers throughout the region still had somewhat of a pessimistic outlook for their region’s economy. “A little over 50 percent of the ag bankers say their area is in a recession right now or would be in the first half of 2024,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** U.S., Brazil Competitive Balance in Soybeans The U.S. and Brazil are major competitors when it comes to exporting soybeans around the world. USDA’s Economic Research Service did a comparison study to figure out how changes in factors underlying production, marketing costs, and infrastructure might affect export competitiveness. Among some of the key findings, the costs of production differed between the two, partially because Brazil relies on more custom services to provide equipment and labor in the field. U.S. farms tend to own their machinery. Average per-acre costs of producing soybeans per acre in Brazil were 19 percent below the U.S. in the marketing year 2021-2022 because of lower land and capital costs. Brazil’s producers had a higher national average return per bushel over total costs than the U.S. in 2021-2022 at $4.05 compared with $2.13. The U.S. Heartland was the lowest-cost exporter of soybeans. Parana in Brazil was the second-lowest shipper as it’s close to a port. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Loses Almost 150 Dairies in 2023 Minnesota’s already-shrinking dairy sector lost another 58 dairy farm permits in November. That brings a total of 146 fewer dairy farmer permits at Christmas than the state had at the beginning of the year. While October, November, and December typically see dairy farms shut down, Minnesota Milk Producers Executive Director Lucas Sjostrom (SO-strom) says he hasn’t seen more than 50 in a single month for a long time. The numbers show just how razor-thin financial margins are under a crushing load of economic pressures. High input costs and low commodity values are squeezing margins only a year after the dairy industry was in the midst of higher prices for milk, cheese, and butter in the aftermath of COVID-19. Overall, Minnesota had a total of 1,825 permits as of December 1. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says the state had more than 4,000 dairy farms as recently as ten years ago. *********************************************************************************** USDA Lists 2023 Successes USDA looked back at 2023 and said it’s been able to help tens of thousands of farmers continue their operations and increase their revenue. The agency also connected rural communities with internet access, advanced efforts to mitigate climate change, made investments to help small businesses get a leg up, and lowered energy and other costs for consumers. As of December 1, USDA has helped more than 30,000 farmers and ranchers who were in financial distress stay on their farms and keep farming. Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, the Farm Service Agency has provided nearly $1.7 billion and counting in immediate assistance to farmers in financial distress. At the same time, USDA greatly improved its loan application process to better serve farmers. In 2023, the Risk Management Agency helped provide the largest farm safety net in history at a total of $207 billion in protection for American agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Mormon Church Buys 370,000 Acres of Ranch Land The Mormon church has sparked some backlash from local farmers after snapping up about 370,000 acres of prime ranch land in Nebraska. The Utah-based religious organization now owns at least $2 billion worth of agricultural terrain across the country. It now owns an estimated $134 million worth of agricultural land in Nebraska and is on track to surpass CNN founder Ted Turner as the single largest landowner in the country. Nebraska Farmers Union President John Hansen told news outlets that the land grab was artificially driving up land prices and forcing out local farmers. “It’s not fair competition when folks bring in that much outside money and bid against local farmers and ranchers,” Hansen says. “They’ll become the number one landowner in the state if they continue this buying spree at the current rate.” The church is likely the largest landowner in Florida after buying almost 383,000 acres of timberland. *********************************************************************************** Slower Moving Markets to End the Year There hasn’t been much of a post-harvest rally to work with in the commodity markets. Successful Farming says fund traders are especially short in the corn market and slightly long in soybeans. December corn went off the board at nearly $4.60, and March is the new front month, which has been trading recently at the low end of its range at $4.70. There hasn’t been a lot of demand recently. On-again, off-again concerns over Brazil’s weather aren’t helping send the markets in a higher direction. Corn traders estimate a two-billion-bushel carryout, which should be more than enough supply. That’s kept any technical rallies in check. Soybean demand is improving, but traders remain more focused on Brazil’s weather, which looks to be improving early in 2024. While many forecasters have lowered Brazil’s harvest projections, they’re only down by 20 percent. The perception is that there will be enough soybeans to meet demand.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 29, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets There is a dearth of reports on Friday, with only the Chicago Business Barometer to be released. Traders will be watching South American weather closely, along with the delayed U.S. grain export sales to be released at 7:30 central time. Weather An area of scattered rain and snow showers in the Eastern Midwest will move into the Tennessee Valley Friday. High pressure will keep conditions mostly dry across the Plains and Western Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 28, 2023 |
Ag Economists’ 2024 Expectations Geopolitical factors, elections, and many other surprises await the agricultural economy in 2024. Farm Journal and Purdue University’s December Economists’ Monthly Monitor shows views slightly more optimistic than they were a month ago. The economists talked about what unexpected news headlines they wouldn’t be surprised to see in 2024. The responses include China falling into a big recession. They wouldn’t be surprised to see a second farm bill extension, corn prices that test four dollars again, and inflation will support managed money returning to the commodities. Record beef imports wouldn’t be a surprise, as well as a national corn yield bigger than 190 bushels per acre. There are also reasons for optimism like demand opportunities through domestic soybean crushing, renewable fuel, and sustainable aviation fuel. They’re looking for robust domestic consumption and an opportunity for competitive pricing for U.S. commodities in overseas markets. Many producers should still have strong balance sheets. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Wins Roundup Lawsuit in California Bayer was victorious in a California trial initiated by a man who claimed he had developed cancer from long-term exposure to the company’s Roundup weed killer. Reuters says that ended what had been a five-trial losing streak for the company in trials over similar claims. Bayer said the verdict was handed down by a jury in a California Superior Court late last week. In a statement, the company says the verdict was “consistent with the evidence in this case that Roundup does not cause cancer and is not responsible for the plaintiff’s illness.” Lawyers for plaintiff Bruce Jones didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. Like most plaintiffs in other Roundup lawsuits, Jones claimed the product caused him to develop a form of cancer called Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Around 165,000 claims have been made against the company for personal injuries allegedly caused by Roundup, which Bayer acquired by purchasing Monsanto in 2018. *********************************************************************************** New Year’s Ag Innovation Trends As agriculture looks to 2024, AgriThority, a Kansas City company, put together its top ten trends for the new year. The company is seeing some consistency from prior years but some emerging trends as well. The first is a push for more biologicals and biostimulants, comparing them to what seed treatments were in the 1990s. The biostimulant market should reach $6.8 billion by 2028. They say climate-smart farming will get smarter as measurements behind the carbon market continue maturing. AgriThority says precision ag will continue evolving with the onset of AI. They do note that regulations are not evolving at the same rate as innovation in agriculture. The company’s top ten also says sustainability isn’t going away, plus soil health will continue evolving. Artificial intelligence will likely be more present in agriculture next year. They call 2024 a “shakeout year” as companies will make moves for the future as competition increases. *********************************************************************************** Food Spending Hit Record High in 2022 Whether real or inflation-adjusted, yearly food spending in the United States increased steadily from 1997 to 2022, except in 2008 and 2009 during the Great Recession and COVID in 2020. Food spending includes food at home, described as food intended for off-premises consumption from retailers like grocery stores. Spending also includes food away from home, described as food bought at outlets like restaurants or cafeterias. Total food spending increased 70 percent from 1997 to 2022. Food spending totaled $1.81 trillion during 2020. Between 1997 and 2022, food at home spending increased at a slower rate, 53 percent, than food away from home at 89 percent. Total food spending increased on a yearly basis by 7.2 percent in 2021 and 4.5 percent in 2022. Food away from home spending drove the overall increases in food spending. Food at home spending rose four percent in 2021 before falling two percent in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Grain Inspections Rise USDA data shows inspections of corn and wheat for offshore delivery increased week-to-week while soybean assessments dropped during the week ending on December 21. Corn inspections during those seven days rose to 1.98 million metric tons. That’s up from the previous week of almost 960,000 tons and the 922,000 inspected during the same week in 2022. Wheat assessments reached 428,700 tons, a sharp jump up from 285,000 tons the previous week. Soybean inspections fell to 1.07 million tons from 1.43 million during the prior week. That’s also down from the 1.79 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 11.2 million metric tons of corn, well ahead of last year. Soybean assessments are now at 22.3 million tons, down from 27.3 million last year. Wheat inspections now stand at 9.33 million tons, down from 11.8 million during last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Continues Strengthening U.S. Food Supply Chains USDA’s Ag Marketing Service announced a cooperative agreement with Oklahoma under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. Through the agreement, USDA and Oklahoma are working to offer over $6.3 million in competitive grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain. In May 2023, USDA announced the availability of up to $420 million through the RFSI program to strengthen local and regional food systems. “This partnership between USDA and Oklahoma is allowing critical funding to reach areas of the supply chain that need it most,” says Jenny Moffitt, USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. Funded projects in Oklahoma will increase cold storage, expand distribution channels for food producers, and increase the number of co-packing options. “These projects will create new opportunities for the region’s small and midsize producers to thrive, expand access to nutritious food options, and increase supply chain resiliency,” Moffitt adds.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 28, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday morning's reports start with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by pending U.S. homes sales at 9 a.m. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 10 a.m., including ethanol production. Weather Dry conditions will return across the Central and Southern Plains throughout the day while widespread rain and snow showers will build across the eastern Midwest and are expected to continue through Thursday night. Up to two inches of snow is likely across southern Wisconsin, eastern Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and eastern Indiana; however, isolated higher amounts up to 3-4 inches are possible.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 27, 2023 |
Ag Groups Pleased with Rail Re-Opening The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reopened the Eagle Pass and El Paso rail crossings into Mexico. Ag groups like the National Corn Growers Association were happy with the move but cautioned the agency against making similar decisions in the future. “This is certainly a welcome relief,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We hope this serves as a cautionary tale against rail shutdowns in the future.” He also says rail is a key mode of transportation for U.S. ag exports into Mexico. U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers were also relieved the shutdown ended. “These rail corridors are essential gateways to many loyal flour millers and food customers in Mexico who rely on the interconnected U.S. and Mexican rail system for a reliable source of high-quality U.S. wheat,” they said in a statement. “We trust CBP will take the steps needed to avoid future rail closures.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Slightly Higher As of December 1, there were 75 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up slightly from December 2022 and down slightly from September 1, 2023. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of those 75 million hogs and pigs, 69 million were market hogs while six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November 2023, 34.6 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms. From September through November 2023, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.66 pigs per litter. Hog producers intend to have 2.9 million sows farrow between December 2023 and February 2024, and 2.91 million sows farrow between March and May 2024. Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states with 24.9 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory at 9.1 million head. North Carolina was third with a total of 7.8 million head. *********************************************************************************** USDA Ranks the World’s Largest Meat Customers China has been the world’s largest meat importer since 2019. Despite recent reductions in imported meat volumes, the country remains in the top spot. In 2022, China imported 43 percent more than Japan, the second-largest meat importer in the world. Mexico was third, followed by South Korea in fourth place. Issues such as disease, tougher laws addressing environmental issues, and an exodus of small-scale farmers have constrained China’s meat supply, boosting domestic prices and incentives to import. As China’s most consumed meat, pork tends to dominate Chinese meat supply and demand. China surpassed Japan to become the top meat importer after the African Swine Fever virus sharply reduced the country’s pork supply in 2019. China’s meat consumption appeared to peak in 2014, but statistical model projections say that meat consumption will continue to grow through 2031 based on trends like dietary change and moderate growth in Chinese income and prices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Climate Fellows The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it is hiring 40 Climate Change Fellows to help with the record number of applications seeking funding for clean energy projects. Farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses are looking for the funds under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). These positions are part of the USDA Climate Change Fellows Program, which hires new staff with a range of skills to carry out USDA’s activities to address climate change and find solutions to agricultural challenges, enhance economic growth, and create new income streams for farmers, ranchers, and producers. The program brings expertise and fresh perspectives to the federal workforce and expands the climate consciousness of state offices across the country. The agency says the investments in future agricultural leaders will help USDA attract the best and brightest to face the growing challenges to the agricultural economy. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Italy Bans Sale of Lab-Grown Meat Italy is the first country to ban cultivated meat, the kind grown in laboratory bioreactors from stem cells. Under a new law put into effect last month, lab-grown meat cannot be produced or marketed in Italy. The country’s agricultural minister says Italy was proud to impose a ban like this one. Which country might be second on the list isn’t set in stone. Many other countries are allowing and even encouraging the technology to be developed. Singapore is the only country where its people are currently eating cell-based meat. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration have approved two kinds of cell-based chicken for human consumption. For regulators in most countries, the BBC says the top issue is food safety. Italy's ban grows out of concerns that may be of more interest to America’s farmers. The country is unashamedly trying to protect its food traditions and farmers. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Governor Condemns UN Food Strategy Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen commended Nebraska Representative Mike Flood for introducing a resolution condemning the UN Food Strategy that was released at COP28. He says the strategy is bad for Nebraska and other agricultural states. “The UN’s radical attack on agriculture undermines the livelihoods of Nebraska farmers and ranchers as well as those in other states where agriculture is an economic driver,” Pillen says. “Anti-agriculture activism damages the world’s food system, and it hurts the hungry.” He also says farmers in and out of Nebraska raise their products using sustainable methods designed to protect the land and resources on which they rely. The COP28 report called for countries to revamp their farm subsidies to encourage healthier eating, prevent overgrazing of livestock, and eliminate food waste. The report also backed sugar taxes, which would apply to high-fructose corn syrup. It also calls for the promotion of plant-based alternatives to red meat.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 27, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will continue to look for clues regarding the status of Brazil's soybean production, but trading is apt to be subdued this week, ahead of Monday's New Year holiday. There are no significant reports on Wednesday's docket and the Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 10 a.m. CST Thursday. Weather A weakening low pressure system in the Central U.S. will continue to provide isolated to scattered rain and snow showers for the Northern and Central Plains as well as the Upper Midwest and Mid-Mississippi Valley Wednesday. Well-above normal temperatures will also persist in northern parts of the Midwest, with temperatures reaching up to 12-18 degrees Fahrenheit above normal.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 26, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Holiday Schedule Mixes Up Markets 1. Holiday market hours: Grain and livestock futures close normally on Dec. 22 and CFTC data is out that day as normal. There also are cattle on-feed, cold storage and hog inventory reports due at 2 p.m. on Dec. 22. Grain and livestock futures markets are closed Christmas Day. They open at 8:30 a.m. Dec. 26. The markets repeat that schedule for the New Year's holiday, open normally on Dec. 29, closed on New Year's Day and trading opens at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 2. In Canadian markets, there is no canola trade at the ICE on Dec. 26, Boxing Day. 2. Weather brings Christmas surprise: And the surprise is? Like any true present, it'll be unknown until the package is open, or in this case until the sun comes up. Weather models continue to be all over the board, some predicting snow and cold, some balmy sunshine. 3. Top 2023 ag stories: We'll continue our countdown of the 10 most critical stories in agriculture. As such things tend to be, many of them are still an issue as the year comes to a close. 4. Tax law updates: There are some new tweaks on depreciation and other tax-related rules for the 2024 season. Watch for our latest take on that. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday markets are closed, so no USDA export inspections. Tuesday sees the U.S. consumer confidence report for December due out at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. Then Thursday sees U.S. weekly jobless claims and U.S. Drought Monitor update at 7:30 a.m., followed by pending U.S. homes sales at 9 a.m. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 10 a.m. On Friday, the USDA weekly export sales report is out at 7:30 a.m.; that's the only significant report of the final trading day of 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 26, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day Christmas weekend, traders will catch up on South American weather and any other pertinent news before trading in grains and livestock futures resume at 8:30 a.m. CST Tuesday. A report on U.S. consumer confidence in December will be out at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. Canola futures on the ICE exchange are closed for Boxing Day. Weather A strong low pressure system in the central U.S. will continue to provide blizzard conditions across portions of the Northern and Central Plains today with freezing rain likely across the eastern Dakotas. Periods of rain will also continue across the Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 22, 2023 |
Ag Groups Respond to Rail Suspension at U.S.-Mexico Border The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency was forced to suspend rail operations at key points into and out of Mexico. The move is to help alleviate the sharp increase in illegal immigration at the border. These actions affect U.S. corn and barley shipments, two commodities the U.S. Grains Council represents. The CBP is working with the Mexican government to remedy the situation as quickly as possible, but there’s no timeline for returning to normal operations. “The North American trading system relies on interconnectedness, and any disruption affects Mexican and U.S. Commodities,” says USGC Chair Ryan LeGrand. “It’s vital the situation gets resolved in a timely manner.” A letter from the NCGA says, “We are aware of trains sitting at origin in at least six states that are unable to move, and we expect that number to grow. Mexican customers are telling U.S. shippers that they’ll soon consider other suppliers.” *********************************************************************************** CattleCon24 Showcases Sustainability Efforts Caring for animals, conserving natural resources, and maintaining a viable business are critical components of transitioning cattle operations to future generations. Two unique sessions during CattleCon24 in Orlando, Florida, provide opportunities to share ideas and continue conversations about the importance of continuous improvement. A half-day Grazing Management Workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, January 30. A long list of experts will talk about the benefits of pasture and grazing management, assessing pasture conditions, forage growth, and many other topics. “Proper grazing management and a written grazing management plan are essential to the success, longevity, and profitability of forage-based cattle operations,” says Josh White of NCBA. Dr. Myles Allen, a professor at Oxford University, will be the keynote speaker during the Sustainability Forum on Thursday, February 1. Allen will demystify climate impacts from cattle production and equip producers with the knowledge and resources to effectively speak about cattle’s role in the climate conversation. *********************************************************************************** Eleven Percent of Americans are Food Insecure Food-insecure households have difficulty providing enough food for their members because they lack resources. USDA’s Economic Research Service monitors the extent of food insecurity in U.S. households at the national and state levels through an annual U.S. Census Bureau Survey. State-level estimates are obtained by averaging three years of data to generate a larger sample size in each state. This provides more precise estimates and more ability to detect differences across states. The national three-year average (2020-2022) was 11.2 percent of American households classified as food insecure. Of that 11.2 percent, findings ranged from 6.2 percent in New Hampshire to 16.6 percent in Alaska. Food insecurity was statistically significantly higher than the national average in six states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. The prevalence of food insecurity was statistically significantly lower in 17 states, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and many others. *********************************************************************************** First Disability-Accessible Tractor Produced in Brazil CNH Industrial launched the world’s first tractor that’s accessible for people with lower limb disabilities. The New Holland TL5 was produced in Brazil and developed in partnership with several inclusive mobility companies. CNH also enlisted farmer and customer Fernando Dalmolin, who uses a wheelchair following an incident that left him without the use of his legs, to help with developing the tractor under the New Holland brand. “This is what people with disabilities like mine need to work independently out in the field,” Dalmolin said in a statement. The tractor has a unique lifting platform and joystick controls allow users to enter and exit the tractor without help. Once they’re inside the tractor, users can operate the tractor with adapted functionality. In the U.S., at least 634,000 farmers and ranchers have a disability, with many reporting physical limitations. Brazil estimates that 7.8 million of its people have lower limb disabilities. *********************************************************************************** USDA’s 2024 Ag Outlook Forum Packed with Information The USDA’s 100th annual Ag Outlook Forum is on February 15-16 in Arlington, Virginia. The event’s theme is “Cultivating the Future,” and features a lot of information farmers and agricultural stakeholders will find useful. USDA’s opening program at the event includes a chance to get valuable insights as USDA’s Chief Economist unveils the agency’s outlook for the domestic agricultural economy in the new year. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will highlight the history and evolution of agriculture in the U.S. while painting a vision for the future. It’s a chance to find out more about initiatives aimed at preserving farmland, protecting farmers, and creating new revenue streams for small and mid-sized producers. State leaders will share their perspectives on the future of agriculture and the challenges faced by producers. It’s also a chance to discover emerging technologies that are reshaping farming and creating exciting new opportunities today and in the future. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Applauds Nutrient Runoff Reduction The National Corn Growers Association applauds the sustained reductions in nutrient losses reaching the Gulf of Mexico. The reductions are shrinking the average size of the hypoxia zone, as recently documented in a task force report to Congress. NCGA commends all growers for the practical conservation steps and measures they have voluntarily adopted on their farms to reduce nutrient losses and protect water quality. “In the journey of water quality stewardship, we are encouraged by the strides made by growers,” says Bryan Biegler, NCGA Stewardship Action Team Chair. “The commitment to sustainable practices is clear, and despite challenging weather patterns impacting growers, we see definite progress taking form over the course of a five-year rolling average.” According to the report, the 2025 interim target to reduce nitrogen loads by 20 percent has been met. More work is needed to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous by 28 percent to meet the 2035 goal.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 22, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Twas the last trading day before Christmas and all through the house… Friday's trading hours will be normal for grain and livestock futures, but we can't promise traders won't stir up mischief on what is traditionally a light-volume session. November reports of U.S. durable goods orders, U.S. personal income, consumer spending and the personal consumption expenditures index will all be released at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by November U.S. new home sales at 9 a.m. At 2 p.m. USDA will post the December 1 cattle on-feed, monthly cold storage and quarterly hogs and pigs reports. Weather A disturbance is moving out of the Plains and into the Midwest on Friday, bringing scattered rain showers. Two disturbances are moving into the West and will combine to create a big storm in the days surrounding Christmas. But temperatures will be quite warm, and records are likely to be broken in the Upper Midwest ahead of this storm.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 21, 2023 |
Movement on Unrestricted E15 Sales The National Corn Growers Association praised an EPA decision that advances the request of several governors to allow their states to sell E15 year-round to the Office of Management and Budget. The move now puts eight Midwestern states closer to year-round access to fuel with a 15 percent ethanol blend. “Allowing consumers to access higher blends of ethanol year-round will play a critical role in helping the country meet its ambitious climate goals,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says it’s a welcome step forward for farmers and drivers across the Midwest. “We’re grateful to the governors of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin for pushing for uninterrupted access to E15,” she says. The request has been in limbo after the oil industry warned the administration that allowing E15 sales in select states would cause supply chain issues and higher gasoline prices. *********************************************************************************** Justice Department, FTC approve 2023 Merger Guidelines Agribusiness mergers have been a concern for agriculture because they cut down on competition and lead to higher prices for things like inputs. The Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission issued the 2023 Merger Guidelines describing the factors and frameworks the agencies utilize when reviewing mergers and acquisitions. The new guidelines were released after a two-year process of public engagement and reflect modern market realities and the experience of participants in the marketplace. “These finalized guidelines provide transparency into how the Justice Department is protecting the American people from ways in which unlawful, anticompetitive practices manifest themselves in the modern economy,” says Attorney General Merrick Garland. The department also says that competitive markets and economic opportunity for all Americans go hand in hand. Garland was grateful to hear from authors, nurses, farmers, and other concerned citizens from across the country. “Merger enforcement will be better as a result,” he said. *********************************************************************************** Growers Appreciate Chlorpyrifos Restoration The Environmental Protection Agency announced it will restore the uses of chlorpyrifos and commit to a science-based review of the pesticide. Alan Meadows, an American Soybean Association director, was happy to hear the news. “We appreciate this announcement brought about by an Eighth Circuit Appeals Court decision,” he says. “EPA’s own science has repeatedly found there are at least 11 high-benefit, safe uses of chlorpyrifos, including for soybeans, a fact we will continue to remind the agency of throughout the process.” The announcement is consistent with a November decision from the Eighth Circuit Court that found EPA disregarded its own scientists’ findings by ending numerous uses of chlorpyrifos they determined were safe. American Sugarbeet Growers Association President Nate Hultgren says growers welcome the return of chlorpyrifos for the upcoming season. “Growers need tools like this to reduce economic harm stemming from pests and diseases and are committed to responsible stewardship,” Hultgren says. *********************************************************************************** MOU on Establishing Climate Corps Work is being done on the steps to advance the American Climate Corps, a landmark initiative announced by the President earlier this year. The initiative will train the next generation of clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience workers while putting them on a path to good-paying union jobs. As part of that commitment, seven federal agencies entered into a Memorandum of Understanding that will serve as a blueprint for the multi-agency program. The MOU lays out the mission, goals, priorities, and the next steps in implementing the American Climate Corps. Beginning in January, senior administration officials will also convene a series of virtual listening sessions to hear directly from prospective American Climate Corps applicants and implementing partners. Those partners can include labor unions, educational institutions, employer partners, and state, local, and tribal governments. Within the first three weeks of launching the Corps, over 40,000 people expressed an interest in joining it. *********************************************************************************** “Raised With Respect” Cattle Care Campaign Underway Respect for animals, land, and for each other is the foundation of a new campaign launched by Sysco, a food service distribution company, and Certified Angus Beef. The campaign called “Raised with Respect” centers on common ground found between cattle producers and beef consumers and focuses on animal welfare and beef sustainability. It was developed as part of a strategic cattle care partnership between Sysco and CAB. The collaboration will focus on supporting producers, equipping them with continuing education to stay current on best management practices, and helping to increase consumer confidence in U.S. beef production. Sysco and CAB are providing Beef Quality Assurance training and certification to farmers and ranchers in nine key beef-producing states. “BQA is a credible and effective way for producers to communicate animal welfare to people on the opposite end of the beef supply chain,” says Bruce Cobb, CAB executive vice president of production. *********************************************************************************** Wolves Reintroduced in Colorado Over Ranching Objections Hundreds of ranchers in Colorado are worried about several wolves that were airlifted into the state and released this week. Wolves were eradicated from Colorado in the 1940s. After three years and dozens of public hearing disagreements, the first handful of wolves were moved from Oregon into Colorado. “Just watching an animal leave the crate and run up the hillside is a majestic site,” says Eric Odell, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Species Conservation Manager. Many ranchers spent a lot of time in the Colorado statehouse fighting the wolf releases and in a federal courtroom last week. Several ranchers who spoke with public broadcasting in the state have gone shopping for the biggest guard dogs they can find. It’s not just farmers and ranchers objecting to the release, either. Tourism directors in several towns are worried and point out it’s another predator to watch out for with children and small animals.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 21, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets At 7:30 CST, Initial Jobless Claims will be released along with the third quarter GDP revision at the same time. Traders will be closely watching Brazilian weather for any changes, for U.S. export sales to be released at 7:30 CST, and any new sales reported by the USDA. Weather A cutoff low-pressure center continues to spin off the coast of California but has pushed a small disturbance into the Plains for Thursday, bringing some showers mostly from Kansas to Texas. Warmth continues to be the big story for the middle of the country until the storm in the Southwest moves eastward this weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 19, 2023 |
ARC and PLC 2024 Enrollment is Open The USDA says agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year beginning on December 18, and the deadline to complete enrollment and any election changes is March 15, 2024. The current farm bill was extended through September 30, 2024, allowing authorized programs like ARC and PLC to continue operating. “It’s business as usual for ARC and PLC implementation for the 2024 crop year,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment.” He also advises producers to avoid the rush and contact their local FSA Office for an appointment because even with no changes in program elections for next year, farmers still need to sign a contract to enroll. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Want More Time on New Rule The Congressional and Senate Chicken Caucuses sent letters to the USDA asking for a 180-day extension to the implementation period for the new Packers and Stockyards Act rule. The rule, titled “Transparency in Poultry Contracting and Tournaments,” included a 75-day compliance period when it was published in the Federal Register on November 28. That put the compliance date for broiler and processing companies on February 12, 2024. “The rule establishes numerous additional disclosure requirements, what provisions must be in contracts, introduces open-ended and novel definitions and terms, requires completely new oversight systems, and injects significant ambiguity regarding compliance,” the House letter says. The lawmakers requested USDA extend the implementation date by no less than 180 days to allow stakeholders and constituents time to thoroughly understand and comply with the rule’s many requirements. They say by providing only 75 days to implement the rule, USDA significantly underestimated the time required for implementation. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Risk Management Workshops USDA announced it will host more than a dozen in-person and virtual workshops this winter for producers to learn more about new and expanded livestock risk management products. The “Livestock Roadshow” will be hosted by the Risk Management Agency. It will highlight policy improvements based on feedback from America’s livestock producers as part of the agency’s broader outreach and education efforts. “Listening to farmers and ranchers is a top priority for RMA,” says administrator Marcia Bunger. “The Livestock Roadshow is one of our many efforts to provide outreach and education to America’s agricultural producers.” The roadshow will cover many topics, including annual forage, dairy revenue protection, livestock gross margin, livestock risk protection, and many others. To ensure producers across the country can attend an event, two virtual livestock shows are scheduled for January. Livestock producers can learn more by going to usda.gov or contacting a Risk Management Agency Regional Office. *********************************************************************************** Tighter Margins Ahead in 2024 Despite a drop in key operating costs, Rabobank says contracted margins in 2023 will continue into the new year. Soybean farmers are likely to achieve good margins in the 2024 season, but corn farmers will feel their margins pressured by ample supply. Wheat margins are unlikely to see better margins despite declining costs. Trends are indicating that the markets are at a pivotal point. Rabobank says uncertainty rises from factors like record Brazilian crops, more “adequate” crops in the U.S. and Europe, and expectations of another record crop in Brazil in 2024. Global domestic demand for key crops declined, which points to building stocks and lower prices. Weather challenges and geopolitical instability coupled with economic uncertainty prompt consideration of a risk premium in the market. Rabobank says corn exhibits the least upside potential, with wheat presenting the highest upside potential. Soybeans likely fall somewhere in between. Volatility is likely in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Crops Conference in January The annual Midwest Crops Conference is scheduled for January 2024 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Formerly the “Certified Crops Advisor Conference,” the two-day event targets people looking for Continuing Education Units, including crop advisors, ag industry professionals, and farmers. “This workshop will provide in-depth discussion on several topics to help agricultural professionals enhance their crop production recommendations to farmers,” says Denice Ferguson, a member of the conference committee. Researchers and experts in crop production from the University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, and Iowa State University will present up-to-date information from their areas of expertise. “Anyone advising or managing an agricultural operation or serving the ag industry knows that research and technology is driving this sector,” Ferguson says. “Advancements in agronomy, pest management, and crop technologies bring improvements to farmers’ yields, efficiency, and risk management.” The conference will offer 15.5 hours of Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop ‘Advisors. *********************************************************************************** New Members Lead AFB National Committees Farm Bureau farmer and rancher members play an important role in their communities and the organization by serving at the local, state, and national levels. Several newly appointed volunteers will provide leadership beginning in 2024 as members of the AFB’s Young Farmers and Ranchers and Promotion and Education Committees. These newly appointed national committee members will focus on advancing the mission of the American Farm Bureau and working to build trust with consumers and others while sharing agriculture’s story,” says American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Farm Bureau members bring a big level of commitment and care to their communities, and as engaged grassroots leaders, they’ll have a big impact.” The YF and R Committee plans programming that includes coordinating the Young Farmer and Rancher competitive events at the national convention in January. The Promotion and Education Committee develops resources to inspire and equip the Farm Bureau to convey agriculture’s importance.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 19, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Trading may be quiet on the Tuesday before Christmas as the only significant report on the docket is November U.S. housing starts, set for 7:30 a.m. CST. Traders will keep close watch on the weather forecasts for Brazil. Weather With lake-effect showers moving into the Northeast and a trough situated off the West Coast, it will be quieter across most of the country for Tuesday. A brief burst of cooler air will be replaced by warmth from the west while showers will continue along the West Coast.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 18, 2023 |
Good News for the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Industry The U.S. Treasury Department will use a modified version of the GREET model as a measurement to determine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The agency will use the model as it allocates tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels under the Inflation Reduction Act. The National Corn Growers Association was pleased to hear the Treasury’s decision. “Given that GREET was created by the government and is widely respected for its ability to measure reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the farm to the plane, we’re encouraged by this,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We’re eager to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and look forward to helping ensure the final model helps achieve that goal.” GREET, which stands for the Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure greenhouse emissions from the field to the car or plane. *********************************************************************************** Specialty Crop Growers Reminded to Apply for Assistance The USDA reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses. The expenses are part of the process for obtaining or renewing a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. “The program is one of the many ways USDA helps support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging all specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification, meet regulatory requirements, and apply by the January deadline.” Eligible operations must grow specialty crops, meet the definition of a small business, and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification. The application for 2023 closes January 31, 2024, and FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. For more information, growers should visit farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** CoBank Releases 2024 Year Ahead Report Lingering high prices are expected to take a bigger toll on the economy in 2024. CoBank says the biggest problem for farm margins heading into 2024 is the elevated cost of production. While fertilizer prices have fallen, other production costs remain high. However, ag commodities will benefit from more upside price risk than down in 2024. Global grain and oilseed stock inventories are tight by historic measures, and the northern hemisphere will likely have a strong El Niño weather pattern during the growing season for the first time since 2015. The dollar will likely continue its recent decline, and global demand should return to a long-term growth trend. Also, the renewable diesel boom and the smaller U.S. soybean harvest of 2023 will drive an expansion of soybean acreage next year. Profitability for the livestock sector should modestly improve in 2024 as lower feed costs and domestic demand offset weak global exports. *********************************************************************************** State Ag Officials Oppose Beef Imports from Paraguay Ag officials in several of America’s top beef-producing states say federal officials didn’t properly assess the risk of disease when deciding to allow beef imports from Paraguay to resume. USDA recently ended a 25-year prohibition on those imports. The prohibition was the result of Paraguay’s difficulty in ridding itself of foot and mouth disease. A severe outbreak in the U.S. has the potential to cost more than $200 billion. South Dakota Searchlight says beef industry groups and some lawmakers have opposed the move, saying the risk analysis was based on outdated information. Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, and officials from seven other states wrote a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to consider pausing the decision until a more reliable risk assessment can be completed based on modern visits to Paraguay. Ag officials from Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming all signed the letter to Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** FCA Board Receives Quarterly Report on Ag Economic Conditions The Farm Credit Administration received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting agriculture and an update on the financial condition and performance of the Farm Credit System. Rising interest rates have negatively impacted many of the finance-heavy sectors, including commercial real estate, banking, and farming. While many agricultural inputs are considerably less costly than last year, profit margins for many farmers are tighter this year. Crop producers continue to see lower commodity prices, especially for corn and wheat, compared to a year ago. Further price risk stems from lower water levels in key waterways used to transport cash grains. Profit margins for some livestock and specialty crop producers are tighter due to weak commodity prices. The System reported solid financial results through the first nine months of 2023. System growth has slowed in 2023 against a backdrop of higher interest rates and tighter margins in a number of agricultural sectors. *********************************************************************************** December 2023 Livestock Outlook The USDA’s December Livestock Outlook says higher cow slaughter and heavier-than-assumed carcass weights will offset lower fed cattle slaughter in the fourth quarter of 2023. That will leave the beef production forecast for 2023 unchanged. Expected heavier carcasses will carry over into early 2024 along with higher cow slaughter. Fourth-quarter pork production was raised 25 million pounds to 7.09 billion pounds, 2.4 percent higher than during the same period last year. Hog prices are expected to average $54 per hundredweight for the quarter, 15 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2022. First-quarter hog prices are lowered by $1 per hundredweight to $56 as soft consumer pork demand is likely to persist, limiting hog price increases. Lamb and mutton import forecasts are lower in the December report compared to the previous month. In poultry, projected broiler production is adjusted higher for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 18, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Cattle Markets and South American Weather 1. Cattle prices and LRP: The conversation around what's going on in cattle markets continues and our analysts and journalists continue to follow the trail this week, with reports from cattle meetings and conversations with producers, traders and the insurance industry. 2. Big stories in 2023: We'll kick off our annual review of the 10 most influential ag stories in 2023 this week. We'll look at weather events, financial surprises and at the things that didn't happen, but should have. Look for our Top 10 story lines through the end of the year, leading up to the story we think was the most critical. 3. More from yield contests: The big news last week was Virginia farmer David Hula's record-breaking corn yield of 623.8439 bushels per acre. We'll have more tales from this year's yield contests both on the DTN platforms, and in the February issue of Progressive Farmer. I 4. Eyes remain on South America: While corn farmers got an early Christmas present with the guidance decision affecting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) tax credits, which could be a pivotal moment for the ethanol industry, the markets are still watching crop growth in South America. Weather models continue to show favorable conditions through January for much of Brazil and Argentina. 5. Economic reports to watch: On Monday, USDA's weekly grain export inspections report hits at 10 a.m., just after the latest government home builder confidence index at 8 a.m. Then Tuesday kicks off with the 7:30 a.m. release of housing starts and building permits. Wednesday, the latest EIA petroleum report hits 10 a.m., which includes ethanol production and inventory. The Energy Department's weekly inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. Existing home sales is scheduled to be released at 9 a.m. On Thursday, we see the USDA weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly initial U.S. jobless claims. The third-quarter GDP report is released at 7:30 a.m., with latest leading economic indicators at 9 a.m. Finally, Friday is a busy report day, with durables-goods orders for November followed by personal income and spending data for November, all released at 7:30 a.m. New home sales will be released at 9 a.m. The latest Cattle-on-Feed and a Hogs and Pigs report are released after market close.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 18, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather with rain expected to return to central Brazil this week. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. The bulk of this week's reports will fall on Thursday and Friday, ahead of the Christmas holiday. Weather A strong storm system built up across the East Coast over the weekend and is pushing through the Northeast on Monday. Behind it, a quick burst of cooler air is moving through the Midwest and down into the Southeast, where it will be cooler for a few days starting Tuesday. The cooler air will mean lake-effect snow around the Great Lakes for today. Another cutoff low-pressure center will bring showers to the West Coast as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 15, 2023 |
Whole Milk on School Menus Gets Through House The National Milk Producers Federation applauded the House of Representatives for passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. The act expands the variety of healthy milk options schools can choose to serve. “Expanding the milk schools can choose to serve to include Two Percent and Whole Milk is a commonsense solution that will help ensure kids have access to the same healthy options they get at home,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. The American Farm Bureau was also happy with the news. In a letter to Congress, AFBF told members that nine out of 10 children aren’t consuming enough dairy to meet their nutritional needs. The act will allow kids to get access to protein, calcium, and vitamins at important times in their development. House Ag Chair GT Thompson introduced the bill and said he looks forward to restoring access to these nutritious beverages in schools across the country. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Land Value Study Shows a Four Percent Rise in Prices Farmland values in Iowa rose again but at a slower pace than the two previous years. The annual Iowa State University Land Value Survey found that farmland values increased 3.7 percent, or $424, to $11,835 per acre. That increase follows a larger 17 percent increase in 2022 and a near-record 29 percent in 2021. The study showed several factors behind the surge last year contributed to the rising prices in 2023. The Federal Reserve has used interest rate hikes to help curb inflation rates, and future increases will continue to slow the growth in farmland values, but not immediately. The Iowa State study says it will take a couple of years for interest rates to be reflected in farmland values. The impact of the aggressive rate hikes in 2022 is expected to be felt more strongly in 2024 and beyond. That will mean more modest growth or lower land prices ahead. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Consumer Survey Deals with Food Concerns The Purdue University Consumer Food Insights is a monthly survey conducted by the Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability. The information is used to track trends and changes in consumer food demand and food sustainability behaviors. The November survey dealt with several food safety topics. Among the many findings, most consumers associate “Best if Used By” and “Use-By” food date labels with food safety rather than food quality. The perceived risk of foodborne illnesses is higher in restaurants than in food prepared at home. Consumers are also more likely to believe raw meats pose a higher risk of containing foodborne bacteria than other food times. Risk-averse consumers ate more food cooked at home than risk-loving consumers. Risk-loving consumers reported eating unwashed produce, rare or undercooked meats, and raw dough or batter more frequently than risk-averse or risk-neutral consumers. Food insecurity dropped slightly for the fifth straight month to 12.8 percent. *********************************************************************************** Groups File Action Against Glyphosate New legal action would require the Environmental Protection Agency to immediately suspend and cancel glyphosate, the main ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup. A petition filed by the Center for Food Safety, Beyond Pesticides, and four farmworker advocacy groups says glyphosate’s registration is illegal. A lawsuit filed by the same groups last year saw a federal appeals court strike down EPA’s human health assessment because the agency wrongfully calculated glyphosate’s cancer risk. The new petition calls for the cancellation and suspension of glyphosate’s registration, contains more than 70 pages and includes more than 200 scientific citations. Glyphosate is the most widely used pesticide in the world, with about 300 million pounds applied every year in the U.S. The groups say EPA has declined to act despite studies, including those sponsored by Monsanto, that show glyphosate has harmful effects on the liver, kidney, and reproductive system. They also say it’s a probable immune system carcinogen. *********************************************************************************** USDA Opens Applications for Discrimination Assistance Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs before January 2021 may be eligible for Discrimination Financial Assistance. It’s a new program and an important step in delivering on USDA’s commitment to providing financial assistance to those who have faced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs. The deadline to apply is January 13, 2024. Borrowers can apply online or with a paper form. The application process isn’t first come, first served. All applications received or postmarked before the January 13 deadline will be considered. Filing an application is free and doesn’t require a lawyer. On the website, applicants can get information on how to obtain technical assistance in person or virtually and additional resources and details about the program. If you have concerns about working with USDA based on past experiences, USDA partnered with community-based organizations to conduct outreach to underserved groups. For information, go to 22007apply.gov. *********************************************************************************** GHG Mitigation Strategies for the Sheep Industry A new resource outlining best practices for the U.S. Sheep industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is now available. The resource summarizes findings in an Environmental Footprint Study from Michigan State University. Many of the practices align with the Lamb Crop Best Practices developed to improve on-farm productivity and profitability. Reducing lamb loss, breeding ewes earlier, and optimal nutrition practices are all areas where producers can maximize productivity while reducing GHG emissions. “It’s encouraging that producers can implement sound practices that have been proven to help with productivity while reducing our environmental footprint,” says American Lamb Board Chair Peter Camino. “Sheep producers have long stewarded their lands, but seeing strategies that make sense for both productivity and sustainability is encouraging.” Other strategies include proper fertilizer use, improved manure management, using renewable resources, and adopting new grazing opportunities. The full report or the summary of the findings can be downloaded at lamboard.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 15, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets On Friday, the Federal Reserve releases its report on U.S industrial production at 8:15 a.m. CST. The National Oilseeds Processors Association releases its estimate of members' soybean crush in November at 11 a.m. and grain traders continue to keep watch over South American weather forecasts. Weather A storm system in the Plains will move east through the middle of the country on Friday with areas of showers. Much of this will be rain, though some snow will be possible across the north from North Dakota through northern Wisconsin. Even with the system moving through, temperatures continue to be warm by December standards.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 14, 2023 |
Attempt to Overturn Beef Imports from Paraguay Senators Jon Tester (D-MT) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) will file a Congressional Review Act resolution that would overturn the decision to lift a long-standing ban on beef imports from Paraguay. Both senators say the Biden administration made the wrong decision. “Resuming beef imports from a country with a recent history of foot and mouth disease is bad news for consumers and producers,” Tester says. Rounds says U.S. farmers produce the world’s safest, highest quality, and most affordable beef. USDA’s decision to resume imports relies on an analysis completed in 2018, and American inspectors haven’t been in the country since 2014. In addition to suspending beef imports from Paraguay, the bipartisan bill would also require establishing a working group to evaluate the threat to food safety and animal health posed by Paraguayan beef. The bipartisan legislation is supported by R-CALF USA, the United States Cattlemen’s Association, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Concerned About PNTR Repeal A coalition of agricultural organizations representing farmers sent a letter to the U.S. Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party regarding Permanent Normal Trade Relations with China. The committee is considering recommending that Congress repeal China’s PNTR status, and the groups say the impact would have sharply negative consequences. “We respectfully urge the committee not to recommend revoking China’s PNTR status,” the groups say in the letter. “The negative consequences for American farmers, ranchers, and food producers would be profound, and the economic impact on American workers and rural communities would be felt for many years.” They also point out that China is now the largest buyer of U.S. food and agricultural products, purchasing 19 percent of U.S. exports. “These ag exports are critical to America’s farmers and rural communities,” they wrote. Additionally, they say retaliatory tariffs in 2018 and 2019 led to losing billions in states across the U.S. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Start Issuing Pandemic Assistance Payments USDA will begin issuing more than $223 million in Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program payments. These payments will help producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue due to COVID-19 for the 2020 calendar year. Eligible applicants must have been in the farming business during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year as compared to a baseline year. PARP benefits help address gaps in previous assistance, which was targeted at price loss or lack of market access rather than overall revenue losses. “PARP payments mark the delivery of the final suite of assistance programs provided by the Farm Service Agency and are also one of the first times that the agency delivered a program focused on revenue decreases,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Collaboration, Momentum at Sustainable Agriculture Summit Barbara O’Brien, president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc., spoke about challenges facing agriculture during the Sustainable Agriculture Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina. With challenges like a growing global population that needs more food, significant geopolitical challenges, and many others, she says, “We need to take a more thoughtful approach to building resilient food systems, and agriculture must be at the forefront.” The Summit was co-hosted by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and several other national ag organizations to convene the collective food and agriculture value chain to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient U.S. food system. One highlight of the Sustainable Ag Summit included producers in different U.S. ag sectors sharing how they approach sustainability on their farms. They talked about the successes and challenges in making sustainability gains and the need to safeguard producer livelihood in the context of environmental stewardship. *********************************************************************************** Global Corn Production Rises Global coarse grain production is projected as higher due to higher production forecasts for Ukraine, Russia, and the EU, which are partly offset by a reduction for Mexico. Barley production in Canada and Australia is also projected higher. Coarse grain exports for the October-September trade year increased by 2.3 million tons. The increased global exports are predominantly due to larger corn export forecasts for the U.S. and Ukraine, and larger forecasts for Australian and Canadian barley. Mexico is expected to take in more corn imports, and China will boost barley imports. The U.S. feed grain forecast is unchanged at 400 million metric tons. Total feed grain supply is 439.4 million metric tons. Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly to Mexico, contribute to a 25 million bushel increase in the 2023-2024 U.S. corn export forecast. The corn and sorghum season-average prices remain unchanged, but barley and oats prices will rise. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Announces Corn Yield Contest Winners The National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the 2023 National Corn Yield Contest. The group of farmers had impressive yields and proved the ingenuity and resilience of U.S. farmers. In its 59th year, the National Corn Yield Contest saw almost 7,000 entries from farmers in 46 states. Of the 10 production categories, Class J had verified yields averaging 269 bushels an acre. The yields included a national record of 623.8 bushels per acre from David Hula of Virginia, beating the previous record of 619.1 bushels per acre. “Year after year, the National Corn Yield Contest remains the most popular program for NCGA members,” says Harold Wolle, NCGA president. “It’s an opportunity for farmers across the country to put their skills to the test and show the true craftsmanship it takes to grow a successful crop.” A complete list of the 2023 National and State winners is available at ncga.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 14, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets One day after the Federal Reserve said it expects lower interest rates in 2024, USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as reports on weekly U.S. jobless claims, retail sales in November and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is set for 2 p.m. Weather A small cutoff low in the Four Corners area will continue to produce some waves of showers in the Southwestern Plains for Thursday, being heavy in some areas. That includes snow that could be quite heavy in some areas. The rest of the country will be warm and dry.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 13, 2023 |
Grassley, Baldwin, Ernst Team Up to Bring Transparency to Fertilizer Market Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst and Tammy Baldwin are leading a bipartisan push to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer. Iowa Republicans Grassley and Ernst, along with Wisconsin Democrat Baldwin, have introduced the Fertilizer Research Act. The legislation would require the Department of Agriculture to study competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price. Grassley says, "With fertilizer being one of the ag industry's highest input costs, it's problematic farmers have such a limited window into market fluctuations." Within one year of the bill's passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Council, would be required to issue a report on USDA's website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry. The report would include a description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price, market trends in the past 25 years, and impacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, among other research items. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases December Oil Crops Outlook USDA’s monthly Oil Crops Outlook for December reduced Brazil’s production forecast for marketing year 2023/24 by 2.0 million metric tons to 161.0 million metric tons on lower yield. Yield is forecast at 3.53 metric tons per hectare, down one percent from last month’s forecast and two percent below last year’s record yield. Harvested area is forecast at a record 45.6 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 1.3 million hectares from last year. The shrinking prospects for Brazil’s soybean production have increased the value of U.S. soybeans. In November, soybean cash prices at country elevators in Central Illinois increased by $0.68 per bushel to $13.08 per bushel. Throughout the country, cash prices rallied above $13.00 per bushel by the middle of November and then prices declined to an average of $12.67 per bushel in the first week of December. Despite the gains, the forecast for average soybean price received by farmers for 2023/24 is unchanged this month at $12.90 per bushel as prices have begun to decline in December. *********************************************************************************** USDA’s Alexis Taylor to Lead Trade Mission to the Republic of Korea Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, on March 25 - 28, 2024. USDA is inviting U.S. exporters wishing to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. Taylor says, "We see tremendous potential for growth as the demand for health and fitness, ready-to-eat, and convenience products is growing, providing a great opportunity for U.S. exporters to expand their sales in the region." The trade mission will offer U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their food and agricultural exports to the region. While in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors and distributors. Additionally, attendees will receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts. U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this agribusiness trade mission must apply online by December 18, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Report: 2 million Participants Could be Turned Away From WIC More than two months into fiscal year 2024, Congress has yet to provide additional funding for hunger programs. Additional funding is for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program in 2024, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. WIC's funding needs have grown due to higher-than-expected participation and food costs. Congress has fully funded WIC for more than 25 years. If Congress fails to do so and continues WIC's current funding level for the rest of the fiscal year, WIC will face a roughly $1 billion shortfall. The Center estimates that as a result, states would need to reduce WIC participation by about two million participants nationwide by September. If Congress extends the current funding level rather than fully funding WIC, USDA could take measures to protect the program. But the authority is limited and could only close roughly half of a $1 billion shortfall. The Center adds, "Congress must fully fund WIC to avoid jeopardizing the health of about two million very young children and pregnant or postpartum adults." *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity in U.S. Households with Older Adults Increased in 2022 In 2022, 9.1 percent of U.S. households with adults aged 65 and older were food insecure at some time during the year. The prevalence of food insecurity in households with adults aged 65 and older in 2022 was statistically significantly higher than the 7.1 percent in 2021 and the 6.9 percent in 2020. USDA’s Economic Research Service monitors the food security status of households in the United States through an annual nationwide survey. In 2022, 11.4 percent of households with an adult aged 65 and older living alone were food insecure, statistically significantly higher than the prevalence in 2021 of 9.5 percent and in 2020 of 8.3 percent. Very low food security is a more severe form of food insecurity in which the food intake of some household members was reduced. The 2022 prevalence of very low food security in households with adults aged 65 and older was 3.4 percent, compared to 2.8 percent in 2021. The data was released this month in USDA’s Household Food Security in the United States in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Signs Agreement with AFA to Prepare Young People for Careers in Agriculture Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Agriculture Future of America. The MOU formalizes a partnership to promote the common goals of strengthening the future competitiveness and sustainability of the U.S. agriculture industry by preparing more young people for careers in agriculture. Vilsack says, “This partnership will enhance USDA’s involvement with AFA and its leadership development and education mission.” USDA and AFA will continue to collaborate on leadership development efforts, and link young leaders with career opportunities in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields. Under the MOU, USDA commits to advancing opportunities for AFA delegates to participate in USDA programs, including internships. AFA will provide occasions for USDA to meet with AFA delegates to share information about these opportunities. AFA President and CEO Mark Stewart adds, “This agreement reinforces our belief that connecting young leaders with USDA initiatives will enrich their careers and contribute to a more resilient and competitive agriculture industry.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 13, 2023 |
Wednesday Market Watch Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. The Federal Reserve will make its announcement on interest rates at 1 p.m. with economic projections also expected. Attention on South American weather remains a given, this time of year. Weather A cutoff low-pressure system is building waves of showers into the southwestern Plains on Wednesday morning, which will spread through Colorado to West Texas. It will be just cold enough in some areas to produce snow, especially late this afternoon through midday Thursday. The system will be a slow-mover, creating some heavy precipitation in the region that should help out with the remaining drought.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 12, 2023 |
USDA Projects Create Economic Opportunity in Underserved Rural and Native Communities The Department of Agriculture Monday announced more than 200 projects to improve infrastructure, housing and economic conditions for underserved rural and Native American communities. These projects are funded by a Department of Agriculture's $81 million investment. USDA is investing in several programs designed to bring federal funding and resources to people and communities in underserved rural areas. The projects will benefit hundreds of thousands of people in 42 states, Puerto Rico and the Marshall Islands. USDA Rural Development also unveiled two new web resources that underscore the agency’s mission to ensure all people have equitable access to federal programs. A new history webpage traces USDA Rural Development’s evolution from the Great Depression and New Deal to the present. Meanwhile, the Rural Partners Network has brought together a coalition of 24 federal agencies that offer programs and funding designed specifically for rural communities. A new feature on Rural.gov makes it easier to find these federal resources in one place. *********************************************************************************** Despite Rising Wage Rate, Farmers Must Rely on H-2A Program New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows H-2A usage reached new highs in fiscal year 2023. The Market Intel report says that comes despite an increase in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which outpaced the hourly wage growth rate of all private employees. This increase in both demand for workers and wage rate continues to put stress on the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers. The data shows the total number of certified H-2A positions at 378,513, an increase of two percent over fiscal year 2022. While this is a slower rate of increase than in years past, the number of positions certified is still up by more than 100,000 workers compared to fiscal year 2020. This is coupled with a nearly 19 percent increase in the required wage rate since fiscal year 2020, causing labor to be one of the costliest aspects of doing business for farmers and ranchers. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This data shows how important and urgent it is that we get a workable fix for the H-2A program and the AEWR.” *********************************************************************************** Population and Income Drive World Food Production Projections The global agriculture system will be expected to provide more food as the world's population increases. To better understand how the world agriculture system may grow in response by 2050, researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service created a range of scenarios based on population growth. Under medium population growth, production worldwide would have to increase to 14,060 trillion crop calories to feed 9.75 billion people in 2050. This is a 47-percent increase in crop calories from a 2011 baseline. Crop calories, the total calories available from crops, are a measure of the size of global agriculture since crops can be either consumed directly as food or fed to animals to be consumed as meat, dairy products, and eggs. In a high population growth scenario, 15,410 trillion crop calories would be needed to feed 10.8 billion people, a 61-percent increase in calories from the 2011 baseline. With both the medium and high population growth scenarios, researchers assumed that as per capita incomes rise, people would increase their overall consumption of calories. *********************************************************************************** Changing Climate Means More Pests for Almonds, Peaches, Walnuts Department of Agriculture research shows climate change may increase the insect population that poses a threat to the specialty crops industry. Led by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the University of California, the research shows populations of three major insect pests – codling moth, peach twig borer and oriental fruit moth — are projected to increase mainly due to rising temperatures. The three pests are "notorious for infesting most of the walnut, almond and peach orchards of California, causing extensive damages by reducing quality of fruits and nuts,” researchers say. Climate change can lead to shifts in the timing of seasons, including warmer winters, earlier springs and hotter summers, and these conditions can disrupt the natural life cycles of pests. The study revealed that due to temperature increases, these insects are expected to appear up to 28 days earlier in the spring, and the time between generations is expected to shorten by up to 19 days. The changes may be gradual, with major changes noticed within 20 years. *********************************************************************************** New Board Members Announced for National FFA Foundation Sponsors’ Board The National FFA Foundation announced its new chair for the Sponsors’ Board during the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis this fall. Mary Snapp, vice president of strategic initiatives for Microsoft, was named chair for the upcoming year. Snapp grew up in rural Kansas and joined Microsoft in 1988 as the company’s first female attorney. The National FFA Sponsors’ Board is made up of top corporate executives who wish to support agricultural education and the National FFA Organization. Six other new board members were announced. Those include Jackie Bailey, senior vice president of transportation for CHS Inc.; John Barton, chief financial officer for Ardent Mills; Mel Halkyard, vice president, of global digital transformation for Elanco Animal Health; Jim Krombach, director of quality assurance for Culvers Franchising System, LLC; Clint Mefford, head of U.S. livestock communications and marketing operations for Zoetis; and Joe Michaels, senior director of product portfolio planning for Kubota North America. These members will serve on the board for three years. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Post 12 Weeks of Decline For the 12th consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 9.6 cents from a week ago to $3.12 per gallon. The national average is down 23.7 cents from a month ago and 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 8.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.10 per gallon— 86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With nearly 80,000 gas stations in the U.S. now priced below $3 per gallon, and 23 states also seeing average prices of $2.99 or less, motorists are getting substantial relief at the pump in time for the holidays." The trend is likely to continue in most states this week, while the national average could soon fall below $3.05 per gallon, the lowest since 2021. Oil prices continue to struggle under the weight of a global economic slowdown, seeing consumption decrease, while oil production has risen in the United States, Canada, and other non-OPEC producers.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 12, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department issues the consumer price index for November at 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday. The Federal Reserve starts its two-day meeting with many expecting the federal funds rate to stay unchanged at Wednesday's conclusion. Traders continue to keep close watch on South American weather with an interest in soybean crop estimates for Brazil. Weather Much of the country is quiet early on Tuesday, though there is a disturbance building across the Southwest. That system will move into the Southern Plains Tuesday night and start to spread showers through Texas. The main punch of the storm will be from Wednesday through Friday, which could culminate in heavy precipitation for areas still wrestling with drought.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 11, 2023 |
December WASDE Lowers Corn Stocks, Increases Exports The World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates from USDA show the 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook calling for higher exports and lower ending stocks. Exports rose 25 million bushels to 2.1 billion, reflecting the pace of sales and shipments to date. Corn ending stocks dropped 25 million bushels to 2.1 billion. The season-average corn price is unchanged at $4.85 a bushel. Soybean supply and use projections are unchanged from November, and the season-average soybean price forecast remains $12.90 a bushel. USDA reduced Brazil’s soybean production by two million tons to 161 million because of dry weather. The U.S. wheat outlook is for unchanged supplies and domestic use, higher exports, and reduced ending stocks. Exports rose 25 million bushels to 725 million. All-wheat ending stocks dropped 25 million bushels to 659 million, 13 percent above 2022. The season-average farm price is up a dime per bushel at $7.30 on lower projected ending stocks. *********************************************************************************** Beef Exports Show Modest Rebound U.S. pork exports posted another strong performance in October, led by record-breaking shipments to Mexico and broad-based growth elsewhere. October pork exports totaled 245,345 metric tons, up three percent year-over-year and the largest since June. The value reached $688.2 million, down two percent from 2022. Shipments to Mexico reached new highs in both volume and value. For the first 10 months of 2023, pork exports were up nine percent from last year at 2.38 million metric tons, with value up six percent to $6.66 billion. Beef exports totaled 104,446 metric tons in October, down 17 percent from last year but six percent above the low volume in September. Export value reached $636 million, down 11 percent from last year but five percent above September. January-October U.S. beef exports reached 1.08 million metric tons, down 13 percent from the record pace of 2022, while value dropped 17 percent to $8.32 billion. *********************************************************************************** Reforms in a New Farm Bill Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Representative Chip Roy (R-TX) called on Senate and House leadership to address several important topics in writing a new farm bill. They’re asking leaders to address the impacts of inflation, waste in farm and nutrition programs, and foreign influence in U.S. agriculture. In a letter to leaders in both chambers, they say the administration and its reckless spending have led the U.S. to record inflation. “By making conservative reforms to key programs, we will be able to tame inflation while also keeping in place a responsible safety net for U.S. farm families,” they say. They also call for reforms to the SNAP program by citing its $1.2 trillion price tag and growing error rate. They’re also urging Congress to bring more accountability to the USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, which they say is a bureaucratic “slush fund,” and oversight would save $8 billion over 20 years. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud Renewable Fuels for Ocean Vessels Act Groups like Clean Fuels Alliance and the American Soybean Association applauded representatives from California and Iowa for introducing the bipartisan Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act. The act designates renewable fuel used in ocean-going vessels as an “additional renewable fuel” (similar to jet fuel) under the Renewable Fuel Standard. This enables companies to preserve Renewable Identification Number credits in the program. “International shipping companies and cruise lines are increasingly looking for low-carbon biodiesel to meet climate goals and consumer demand,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels. “This will remove a regulatory roadblock and enable biodiesel and renewable diesel producers to meet the low-carbon fuel needs of shipping companies at a competitive price.” American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates applauds the effort to acknowledge marine vessels as a new and exciting market opportunity for agriculture. The RFS originally excluded fuels in ocean-going vessels from blending obligations *********************************************************************************** TFI Celebrates Good News on Hypoxia The Fertilizer Institute celebrated the good news in the recently released Hypoxia Task Force’s report to Congress. It shows significant progress toward the goals of the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan of 2008. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says it is good news. While there is still work to do, he says the report shows significant progress. “TFI has long advocated for grower adoption of nutrient stewardship practices such as the 4Rs because they work,” Rosenbusch says. “These practices keep fertilizers on fields where they belong and out of the nation’s waterways where they do not.” He also says it proves that science-based conservation practices voluntarily adopted by farmers and ranchers are having a tremendous impact on the nation’s water quality. “They should be applauded for their continued efforts to grow more food with less environmental impact,” he adds. TFI will use the report for continued farmer and policymaker education. *********************************************************************************** Feed Industry Applauds FEED Act The American Feed Industry Association appreciates the introduction of the innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development Act. Supporters say it will improve the regulatory environment for new animal feed ingredients. The FEED Act will amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish a regulatory pathway for a new category of animal food substances that act solely within animals’ gut microbiomes or in the feed they are digesting to provide a wide range of benefits. This will make sure the Food and Drug Administration has the power it needs to ensure regulations keep pace with scientific innovation in feed. “We are excited that the bill has been introduced in both chambers and already has the bipartisan and bicameral support we hoped for,” says Constance Cullman, president and CEO of the AFIA. “This will spark the drive to nutritional innovation that improves animal health and production while addressing public health challenges."
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 11, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Yield Winners, Fertilizer Facts and Cattle Rumors 1. Yield winners announced: Both the National Corn Growers Association and the National Sorghum Producers are expected to announce their annual yield contest winners. Will we see familiar names, or will some new contestants pop in with top yields? 2. Global Fertilizer Outlook: DTN Staff Reporter Russ Quinn continues our deep dive into global fertilizer conditions on the supply and demand side along with what possible wild cards could affect price. 3. Cattle market rumors: Late in the past week, rumors flew about reasons for the drop in cattle futures prices while herd size remains historically small. At this writing it appears to be the "X" (formerly known as Twitter) factor -- that is, a remark thrown out into social media that then fed on itself. Ah, social media, we get what we pay for. DTN editors and analysts will look under whatever rocks turn up at the bottom of that stream. 4. Weather cools down: The weekend band of snow near the U.S.-Canada border pushed a cold front south through the Plains and east through the Upper Midwest. Temperatures have dropped some 20 degrees Fahrenheit from the previous week, but still remain mild by December standards through this week, well-above normal across northern zones. 5. Economic reports to watch: On Monday, USDA's weekly grain export inspections report hits at 10 a.m. On Tuesday, the U.S. Labor Department issues its consumer price index for November at 7:30 a.m., and the Federal Reserve starts its two-day meeting. Wednesday the U.S. producer price index will be out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve will make its announcement on interest rates at 1 p.m. Then, Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, retail sales in November and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is set for 2 p.m. The week wraps up with Friday's release of the Fed's report on U.S industrial production at 8:15 a.m., while the National Oilseeds Processors Association releases its estimate of members' November soybean crush at 11 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 11, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST Monday. Traders will also be watching for this week's Fed announcement, due out Wednesday at 1 p.m. after a two-day meeting. Weather A storm system from the weekend continues to push off the East Coast Monday morning with significant precipitation in the Northeast. It's cooler and drier behind the system, but still warm for December across northern locations. Another little disturbance and front are moving into the Northern Plains and some light precipitation will move through Monday, mostly in the form of snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 8, 2023 |
Farmers Meet Nitrogen Loss Goals Two Years Early A new report from the EPA’s Hypoxia Task Force shows that the hard work of farmers and ranchers to reduce nutrient losses in the Mississippi River watershed is paying off. The report reveals the 12 participating states have met interim nitrogen reduction goals two years ahead of schedule and are also making considerable progress in bringing down phosphorous losses. The goals are part of a comprehensive strategy established by state and federal agencies across the Mississippi River watershed region. Farmers and ranchers were tasked with helping to reduce nutrient losses by 20 percent by 2025. “Farmers are problem-solvers by nature, and the work being done in the Mississippi River is proof of what happens when we come together,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “I commend the farmers in each of the states for their instrumental role in making these strides and encourage continued work to meet the 2035 goals.” *********************************************************************************** Ag Community Writes Trade Commission Regarding Tariffs The National Corn Growers Association joined 57 organizations in urging the International Trade Commission to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer are having on farms. The concerns were expressed in a letter that comes after the ITC was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider its determination of material injury in a decision issued earlier in September. “Rising prices for fertilizer inputs have strained America’s farmers and ranchers and have impacted availability for this critical component of nutrient and yield management,” the letter says. “Without predictable options to source this product, farmers struggle to plan for the future.” The groups noted that issues surrounding the international supply chain further complicate farmers’ ability to source phosphate. It also says the ITC originally made some inferences on the ability to re-ship products that are not grounded in reality. Efforts to reduce the duties will continue for months. *********************************************************************************** New York City Moving to Renewable Diesel New York City has a plan in place to become the first city on the East Coast to transition all heavy-duty vehicles in the city’s fleet from fossil to renewable fuel. The fleet includes more than 12,600 on- and off-road trucks and specialized equipment that operates on diesel fuel. By the end of 2024, they’ll all operate on renewable diesel. Renewable diesel is proven to reduce carbon emissions and will replace up to 16 million gallons of fossil fuel used annually to power the city’s heavy-duty fleet, which includes garbage trucks and ambulances. After the full rollout of 16 million gallons of renewable diesel, the city will have cut 128 billion grams of carbon dioxide pollution each year. The transition already began in September with 2.5 million gallons of renewable diesel already used across heavy-duty vehicles. Renewable diesel fully replaces fossil diesel, protecting the environment and delivering the same quality fuel. *********************************************************************************** USB Elects New Leaders Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board elected Steve Reinhard from Ohio as the 2024 chair and ten additional farmer-leaders to serve on the Executive Committee. “I’m honored and excited to take on the role of USB’s new board chair,” Reinhard says. “Together with the dedicated team and the support of our farmers, I look forward to continuing our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the soy industry.” He also says the organization will focus on “driving positive change, leveraging research and investments to meet consumer demands, and furthering the success of America’s soybean farmers.” The USB also announced that Lucas Lentsch will be the new CEO starting on January 1. Lentsch currently serves on the Dairy Management, Inc. leadership team, which manages the national dairy checkoff. “Lucas Lentsch is the right leader at the right time to continue the meaningful work of the soy checkoff,” says Meagan Kaiser, outgoing USB Chair. *********************************************************************************** New Land Transfer Program Helps with Farmland Access Working in partnership with land protection leaders across the United States, American Farmland Trust announced a new “Land Transfer Navigators” program. It’s a partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service that will help existing farmers and landowners retire with confidence and help new, beginning, and underserved farmers gain secure, equitable land access. Nearly 300 million acres of American farmland are expected to change hands in the next 20 years. As aging farmers exit the field, the future is uncertain for about one-third of the country’s farm and ranch land. “Farmland is most at risk of conversion during generational transition,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (pee-OTT-tee). “With the wave of transfers coming, we risk losing far too much farmland to low-density housing, subdivisions, and strip malls.” Land Transfer Navigators will build bridges between incoming and outgoing farmers, leveraging land protection as a strategy to facilitate successful and affordable land transfer. *********************************************************************************** New VP of Science at the Sugarbeet Association The American Sugarbeet Growers Association has hired Dr. Nicholas Storer as Vice President of Science and Innovation. He’ll begin those duties on January 1. Dr. Storer recently was the Stewardship and Regulatory Director for Corteva Agriscience. “There are tremendous challenges and opportunities for our industry in the years ahead,” says Nate Hultgren, President of the ASGA. “Dr. Storer’s deep knowledge and broad experience in both crop protection and seed genetics will provide the leadership and guidance needed for our industry to remain efficient and competitive for decades to come.” Dr. Storer says he’s excited to bring his science and regulatory policy experience to support the development and deployment of the most effective solutions that sugarbeet growers need. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone involved in sugarbeet production and research,” Dr. Storer adds. Storer received a bachelor’s in Natural Sciences, a Master’s in Zoology, and a doctorate in entomology.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 8, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases its unemployment report for November at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its WASDE and Crop Production reports for December. Weather A storm system moving along the Canadian border is bringing snow to the southeastern Canadian Prairies and North Dakota on Friday with some moderate accumulation and blustery winds. The system will develop some rain showers and thunderstorms for the South-Central U.S. and snow in the Colorado front-range by the afternoon as well. Temperatures ahead of the system are well
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 7, 2023 |
USDA Announces Crop Insurance Improvements The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced updated to the Federal Crop Insurance Program. The updates affirm the use of USDA conservation practices as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Recently, USDA’s Risk Management Agency updated the Good Farming Practices Handbook, as part of the agency’s broader efforts to support conservation and climate-smart activities as well as to improve crop insurance for agricultural producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “This update affirms producers can have peace of mind that using conservation practices will not impact their crop insurance.” The updated handbook recognizes all conservation practices offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Essentially, appropriate use of NRCS conservation practices will have no impact on crop insurance coverage, which affirms how the rules have worked on the ground for years. The updated handbook builds on similar efforts, including RMA’s designation of planting cover crops as a Good Farming Practice in 2019. *********************************************************************************** USDA Now Accepting Applications for Farm Loans Online The Department of Agriculture has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless. The online application also provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA's Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, "With USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations." Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA's Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool. *********************************************************************************** Monthly Dairy Products Report: Mostly Higher Cheese Production USDA’s Monthly Dairy Products Report released this week shows total cheese output, excluding cottage cheese, was 1.19 billion pounds, in October. That figure is 0.8 percent above October 2022 and 3.9 percent above September 2023. Italian-type cheese production totaled 506 million pounds, 1.4 percent above October 2022 and 5.6 percent above September 2023. American-type cheese production totaled 474 million pounds, 0.3 percent below October 2022's but 2.5 percent above September 2023's. Butter production was 161 million pounds, 0.9 percent below October 2022, but 12.5 percent above September 2023. Nonfat dry milk for human consumption came in at 127 million pounds, down 1.2 percent. Skim milk powder production was 42.5 million pounds, down 34.9 percent, from the same time last year. Dry whey total production was 75.6 million pounds, up 0.4 percent, compared to October, 2022. Finally, regular ice cream production was 57.9 million gallons, down 2.6 percent from the same time last year. *********************************************************************************** Foodservice Claims Largest Share of U.S. Food Dollars In 2022, more than a third of U.S. dollars spent on domestically produced food went to foodservice establishments, which includes restaurants and other food-away-from-home outlets. At 34.1 cents per food dollar in 2022, the foodservice share increased 1.6 cents from 2021 to reach its highest value in the USDA, Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. Industry groups add value by transforming the inputs they purchase from other industry groups and selling their output at higher prices. For instance, foodservice establishments prepare meals using food bought from distributors, such as those in the wholesale trade industry group, and utilities, such as gas and electricity, bought from establishments in the energy industry group. Prices paid by customers include the value added by the restaurant and the cumulative value added by all establishments before the restaurant. Annual shifts in the food dollar shares among industry groups occur for various reasons, including changes in the balance of food at home and away from home. *********************************************************************************** USDA Fulfills Long-Standing Tribal Requests Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced USDA is fulfilling some long-standing Tribal requests. Specifically, USDA is partnering with Tribal Nations in empowering Tribal food sovereignty and co-stewardship of federal lands and waters. Secretary Vilsack announced the first grant recipients under the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and advances in Forest Service co-stewardship with Tribes, including 120 new agreements totaling more than $68 million in investments. Secretary Vilsack also announced the inaugural appointees of the new Tribal Advisory Committee. Secretary Vilsack made the announcements at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit, where Tribal leaders gathered for conversations with President Biden and senior administration officials. Vilsack says, "As Tribes have requested, we are reshaping our programs to incorporate Tribal and Indigenous perspectives, remove barriers, and encourage Tribal self-determination." Vilsack says the investments will create economic opportunities in Tribal communities, elevate the agency's work to increase co-stewardship in forest management, and increase the availability of affordable, healthy protein sources from Indigenous animals. *********************************************************************************** NASS Inducts Two Former Employees Into Hall of Fame USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service inducted two former employees to its Hall of Fame Wednesday. The NASS Hall of Fame honors individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on agricultural statistics. This year’s inductees are Carol House and Raymond “Ron” Bosecker. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Our two honorees distinguished themselves with their leadership, by being experts in their fields.” Carol House joined NASS in 1976 as a student assistant. During her career, she authored and co-authored numerous reports that impacted NASS methodology, including those on her pioneering work in Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing. Additionally, House was the first woman hired directly into NASS to rise to the level of Senior Executive. House retired in 2010. Raymond “Ron” Bosecker began his career at NASS in 1964 as a student trainee at the Illinois State Statistical Office. He was reassigned in early 1999 as Acting Deputy Administrator for Field Operations, before being selected as the NASS Administrator in December 1999. Bosecker held the position of Administrator until his retirement in 2008.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 7, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. South American weather remains important to traders ahead of Friday's WASDE report. Weather A storm system will move across the U.S.-Canada border on Thursday, bringing areas of scattered showers, including some snow accumulation through Friday. Winds with the system will also be fairly strong. Ahead of the system, temperatures continue to be very warm for December.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 6, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Improves, Producers Credit Stronger Financial Conditions For the second month, farmer sentiment improved as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed five points. November's 12-point rise in the Current Conditions Index to a reading of 113 was primarily responsible for this month's sentiment improvement as the Index of Future Expectations only improved by two points. Both sub-indices exceeded their year-ago levels in November. The Current Conditions Index increased by 15 percent, and the Future Expectations Index was up 11 percent compared to November 2022. The improved perception among U.S. farmers regarding their farms' financial condition and prospects contributed to this month's more positive sentiment reading. The Farm Capital Investment Index also rose during November, although respondents who said it was a good time to invest were more likely to point to rising dealer inventories of farm equipment as a reason than strong farm cash flows. Farmers continue to be relatively optimistic about future values for farmland as the short-term farmland index held steady while the long-term index drifted lower. *********************************************************************************** Crop Insurance Industry Opposes GAO Report Crop Insurance groups oppose a recent Government Accountability Office report the industry says is fraught with recommendations that would dismantle the successful public-private partnership that delivers federal crop insurance. In a joint statement, the Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau, National Crop Insurance Services, and American Association of Crop Insurers say the report contains several recommendations that would result in reduced participation in the long run. The groups say GAO mischaracterized the economics of the delivery system when it states that "the increase in crop prices did not increase the workload to sell and service the policy." This statement ignores the fact that since 2011 the crop insurance industry has worked with USDA to implement both the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills. Both of these pieces of legislation increased the availability of crop insurance products nationwide. New crop insurance products have since been developed along with specialty crop and livestock product expansion. The industry charges that the workload has, in fact, increased to meet the risk management needs of America's farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Request New USDA Emergency Relief Program A group of lawmakers this week expressed concerns regarding the Department of Agriculture's requirements for the Emergency Relief Program. In a letter to USDA, Republican Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and Republican Representative Jodey Arrington of Texas led the effort. The lawmakers say USDA's 2022 Emergency Relief Program requirements are misguided and losing sight of the relief program's intent outlined by Congress when it was created. The Biden Administration's USDA made requirements that have nothing to do with helping farmers deal with natural disasters. In fact, by the USDA attaching excessive conditions to receive aid, this federal relief program could force farmers to wait even longer for assistance or completely jeopardize their ability to access the program. The letter states, “American producers have experienced significant losses, and the Administration has taken an approach that does not reflect Congressional intent.” The lawmakers “strongly request the USDA abandon this current program” and implement the framework of 2021 ERP Phase 1 as quickly as possible. *********************************************************************************** Some Crops Tolerate Ozone Pollution Better Differences in the photosynthetic "machinery" of certain crop plants can make them more or less prone to harm caused by ground-level ozone pollution. The research was developed by USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and University of Illinois scientists in Urbana-Champaign. The findings—that so-called "C4" crops like corn and sorghum tolerate increased ozone levels better than "C3" crops, like rice or snap beans—open the door to better models for predicting crop responses to the effects of global climate change, as well as developing more resilient varieties that can sustain humanity’s increasing demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel. While both C3 and C4 crops use the enzyme called rubisco to convert carbon dioxide into sugars, C4 crops isolate rubisco in specialized cells where the concentration of carbon dioxide is very high. This enables higher rates of photosynthesis and greater efficiency of water use. Thus, C4 plants have lower stomatal conductance, resulting in less diffusion of carbon dioxide and ozone into leaves. *********************************************************************************** USDA/EPA Partnership to Improve Access to Modern Wastewater Infrastructure The Department of Agriculture is strengthening its partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency to help people in rural and underserved communities access affordable, modern and safe wastewater infrastructure. The actions further the continued collaborations between both agencies to revitalize the nation’s wastewater infrastructure, improve water quality and protect the health of people living in rural areas, according to USDA. Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Farah Ahmad says, “Decentralized wastewater systems are an integral component of our nation’s wastewater infrastructure, especially in rural areas where centralized treatment is often too expensive or unavailable,” USDA and EPA officials signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining an industry-wide initiative to improve the overall performance and management of decentralized systems in rural areas. Across the U.S., decentralized septic or onsite technology can provide communities and homeowners with a safe, affordable wastewater treatment option. The Decentralized Wastewater Management MOU was developed by EPA in 2005 and is updated every three years. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Grants to Increase Equitable Access to Healthy Meals for Children The Department of Agriculture and the Food Research and Action Center have teamed up to award five organizations $1.1 million. The grants aim to research barriers to equitable access in the federal child nutrition programs and identify strategies to eliminate them. The efforts to improve food security for school children and children in childcare settings are critical to fueling the health and development of our nation's children, according to USDA. These programs, including USDA's National School Lunch Program, are instrumental in reducing childhood hunger. Many eligible children are either not participating in the programs or do not have programs available to them. The services delivered can vary by community, which could make inequities for historically and currently marginalized communities worse. Grants were awarded to Johns Hopkins University, Trustees of Indiana University, San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, Hunger Solutions Minnesota, and Feeding Kentucky.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 6, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Day two of DTN's Ag Summit begins at 8:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. Before that, at 7:30 a.m., the U.S. Commerce Department will report on the U.S. trade deficit for October and a report on U.S. productivity in the third quarter will also be issued. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will follow at 9:30 a.m., including an update on ethanol production. Weather Dry conditions are likely Wednesday across the center of the country, along with seasonably warm temperatures. The dry conditions won't stick around too long as more precipitation is expected late this week into this weekend for portions of the Plains, Midwest, and Delta.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 5, 2023 |
Farmers Freedom Act to Address Government Overreach Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) and multiple colleagues introduced legislation to address federal overreach and provide regulatory certainty. The Farmers Freedom Act of 2023 would protect the definition of prior converted cropland in the Biden administration’s most recent Waters of the U.S. Rule. “For far too long, producers have been subject to a number of complex and burdensome WOTUS rule changes,” Rounds says. “The previous Navigable Waters Protection Rule worked to protect owners of prior converted cropland from undue regulation while providing producers with needed flexibility.” He also says the legislation seeks to restore this definition of prior converted cropland and prevent further overreach on farmers and ranchers, who know their land better than any D.C. bureaucrats. Kevin Cramer (R-ND), one of the co-sponsors, says landowners need more freedom to use their land as they see fit without excessive and burdensome environmental regulations. “Producers are always the best land caretakers,” Cramer adds. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Conduct the 2023 Census of Aquaculture The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will begin mailing the 2023 Census of Aquaculture forms starting December 18. The agency will mail the forms to all producers who indicated in their 2022 Census of Agriculture that they produce and sell aquaculture products. The deadline to respond will be January 15, 2024. An ag census special study, the Census of Aquaculture will provide comprehensive data at the state and national levels, including production volumes and methods, surface water acres and sources, and sales. Federal, state, and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, and producers can use this data. “The information that respondents provide will serve as the foundation for many decisions involving the sustainability and growth of the aquaculture sector for years to come,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “It’s an opportunity to share your voice with decision-makers.” The agency made survey responses more convenient with their online Respondent Portal at accounts.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Taylor to Lead Trade Mission to Korea USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul (soul), South Korea, March 25-26, 2024. Taylor says the agency is inviting U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. “North Asian markets are a source of stability for America’s exports and an opportunity for market share expansion due to its heavy reliance on food imports,” she says. “While South Korea is already one of our top export markets, we see tremendous potential for growth.” While they’re in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors, and distributors. With a population of about 52 million people and limited arable land, the Republic of Korea relies on imports to satisfy consumer demand for food variety, lower prices, and greater convenience. In 2022, South Korea imported about $41 billion worth of agricultural goods. *********************************************************************************** Farm Loan Performance Strong as Debt Grows Farm debt balances at commercial banks grew steadily in the third quarter, but loan performance remained strong in the Kansas City Fed’s District. Despite some indications of slower lending activity in recent surveys and subdued loan demand for some lenders, outstanding debt at commercial banks, in aggregate, grew at a pace similar to last year. Alongside ongoing strength in farm finances, delinquency rates on agricultural loans dropped for the third consecutive year and remained at historically low levels. Steady loan growth has coincided with a pullback in deposit growth and firmed liquidity at agricultural banks. Profits for agricultural banks have stayed solid with support from higher interest income. The balance of agricultural debt continued to increase alongside a growing demand for production loans. According to commercial bank Call Reports, farm debt was five percent higher than the same time last year and increased at a similar pace for almost two years. *********************************************************************************** Season Two of Farm Stress Real Talk Podcast Available Season two of Penn State University Extension’s podcast called “Farm Stress Real Talk” is now available. The podcast focuses on supporting farmers, farm families, and workers in the commercial agriculture industry who are experiencing stress. During the program, the PSU extension farm stress team conducts informal educational conversations with a diverse range of educators, Penn State faculty members, and agricultural professionals. These interviews are designed to give farmers practical strategies to balance farm responsibilities with their own well-being. Dairy extension educator Ginger Fenton says the podcasts are a convenient resource. “We know farmers are busy, so we thought a podcast with targeted, practical information would be a good way to reach them,” she says. “Farmers can listen to the podcast while doing chores or operating machinery.” Season two episodes will focus on strategies to address stress proactively. The second season of the podcast is available on the Penn State Extension website. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Corn Sponsors First NASCAR Cup Race in the State The Iowa Corn Growers Association is proud to be a partner for the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in the state. The “Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol” will showcase ethanol’s performance at the fastest short track on the planet, which is surrounded by corn fields. “I’m pleased to share why choosing higher ethanol blends benefits everyone,” says Stan Nelson, president of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “We can make a sustainable difference today without buying a new vehicle, but by simply choosing instead to fuel up with ethanol at the pump.” He also says ethanol is the most affordable fuel option on the market today. The race will take place at 6 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, June 16, 2024, and be shown live on the USA Network. “This race will give us as farmers a platform to share the benefits of ethanol,” says Jolene Riessen, President of the Iowa Corn Growers.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 5, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There is an index of U.S. service activity from the Institute of Supply Management due out at 9 a.m. CST Tuesday, but not much else. Traders remain attentive to weather in Brazil. Weather A clipper system will continue to move through the eastern Midwest for Tuesday. A mix of rain and snow is expected and some minor snow accumulation may be possible across Illinois into western Ohio. Well-above normal temperatures will enter the Plains and Midwest by Wednesday, with temperatures approaching 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit above normal in the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 4, 2023 |
USDA Forecasts Lower Ag Exports in FY 2024 America’s agricultural exports in fiscal year 2024 are projected at $169.5 billion, down $2.5 billion from the August forecast. The drop is primarily from reductions in grain and feed as well as livestock, poultry, and dairy exports. Wheat exports are forecast down $800 million to $6 billion on lower unit values and ongoing competition from Russia and the EU. Corn exports are forecast down $500 million to $12.8 billion because of lower unit values as abundant global supplies continue easing prices. Soybean exports are projected $500 million lower to $26 billion on lower exportable supplies. Livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are forecast to drop by $1.3 billion to $36.3 billion due to declines across most products. Beef and pork exports are both projected $300 million lower on tight supplies and lower demand, respectively. Poultry products and dairy will both drop by $200 million due to lower volumes and decreased price competitiveness. *********************************************************************************** Lower Corn Price Pressuring Farmers The University of Illinois Farm Policy News website says the price of corn recently hit a three-year low mark. Supplies from Brazil and the U.S. surged while demand stagnated because of the high prices. Corn has traded around $4.50 a bushel recently after reaching more than $8 a bushel in May 2022. The drop in corn prices was coming after American farmers planted more corn last year in response to the higher prices. The Financial Times says Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sent prices sharply higher last year, as did drought in parts of South America. However, in response to the rising prices, corn demand fell for the first time in ten years, contracting roughly three percent between 2022 and 2023. The extra corn acres in the U.S. didn’t help. A government forecast showed an additional six million acres got planted in the Corn Belt, and yields were higher than anticipated. *********************************************************************************** USDA Provides $208 Million for Emergency Assistance The USDA is providing approximately $208 million in financial assistance for qualifying farm and emergency loan borrowers. To help prevent foreclosures, USDA will cover approximately $80 million in delinquencies for an estimated 210 borrowers whose loans were flagged for liquidation as of November 30. USDA will also provide roughly $128 million for an estimated 1,120 borrowers with outstanding direct Emergency Loans as of November 30. Any distressed borrowers who qualify for this assistance and are currently in bankruptcy will get addressed using the same case-by-case review process announced in October 2022 for complex cases. “We’re working hard every day to keep farmers on their farms,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We continue to work on credit reforms centered around a better approach, and I encourage our lenders and borrowers to capitalize on all available flexibilities.” Borrowers can submit requests in person or by sending a request using portals found on farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** New Nutritional Campaign Launches on Wheat Consumers want nutrition information, so the Wheat Foods Council launched a social media campaign that educates fitness professionals and trainers about the benefits of wheat foods in healthy diets. U.S. Wheat Associates and the WFC are both farmer-led organizations that promote the value and benefits of U.S. wheat. The new WFC campaign on Facebook and Instagram launched on November 20. It provides evidence-based information on the nutritional and performance advantages of wheat foods. Among those advantages is how wheat foods serve as a reliable and efficient source of energy. The campaign also helps dispel myths about wheat foods and fosters a deeper understanding of the positive impact they have on performance and well-being. “By harnessing the power of social media, the campaign creates a dialogue, encourages knowledge sharing, and inspires a shift in how the fitness industry views wheat foods in a healthy lifestyle,” says WFC President Tim O’Connor. *********************************************************************************** Corn Harvest Quality Report Contains Good News The U.S. Grains Council’s “Corn Harvest Quality Report” shows this year’s crop is the largest on record to have the lowest percentage of broken corn and foreign material in history. The average aggregate quality of the representative samples tested was better than the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade. The report also says that 88 percent of the samples met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade, and 96 percent met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 2. “The transparency this provides to buyers helps them make informed decisions and takes another step towards developing markets, enabling trade, and improving lives,” says Brent Boydston, USGC Chair. “This crop’s incredible volume allows the U.S. to remain the world’s leading corn exporter, accounting for an estimated 26 percent of global corn exports.” The report is based on 611 yellow corn samples taken from 12 of the top corn states. *********************************************************************************** More Crop Insurance Options in 2024 The USDA is further expanding the opportunities for producers to consider Enterprise Units as risk management options. The Risk Management Agency is expanding Enterprise Unit availability to additional specialty crops and other actual production history crop programs. Together with the six crop types announced in July for Enterprise Unit protection, these crops may benefit from the Enterprise Units that were previously unavailable. Enterprise Units are attractive to producers due to lower premium rates offered to recognize the lower risk associated with the geographic diversification. In general, the larger the Enterprise Unit, the lesser the risk and the greater the unit discount. “This announcement is in response to public feedback of producers needing more options to manage their risk,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “It’s critical that while we are examining our resources for areas of improvement we also listen to America’s agricultural producers to hear exactly what they need.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 4, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to watch over South American weather forecasts. A report of crop production estimates from Stats Canada will be out at 8 a.m. CST, followed by U.S. factory orders for October at 9 a.m. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. and there is no Crop Progress report until the 2024 growing season. Weather A couple of little systems are moving through the Northern Plains and Midwest on Monday, producing some limited areas of showers, including a mix with snow in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest. Accumulations will be negligible. Outside of a couple of chilly spots this morning, temperatures are mild by December standards across most of the country for today.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 1, 2023 |
Court Filing on Year-Round E15 in the Midwest Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird filed a motion for summary judgment regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s failure to respond to a request to sell year-round E15 in Midwest states. Iowa and six other states filed an opt-out request that would allow them to sell E15. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says biofuel leaders have been more than patient. “For over a year past the statutory deadline, they’ve waited for EPA to follow the law and allow them to make E15 available in their states year-round,” she says. “They have been forced to return to court to compel EPA to do something it was required to have done by July 2022.” Skor also says in its continued decision to illegally delay acting on the governors’ request, EPA has cited fuel distribution concerns that are greatly overstated. “It’s a low-carbon fuel that saves consumers money and is better for the environment,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Farm Sector Income Report USDA’s Economic Research Service released its annual Farm Sector Income Forecast Report for 2023 which shows lower net farm income this year. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says while net farm income will drop below the record high in 2022, it’s one of the best years on record for the overall farm sector at $151.1 billion. “In fact, net cash farm income for 2023 is 15 percent above average for the last two decades, and farm income over the 2021-2023 period represents the highest level of farm income in the last 50 years,” he says. “U.S. ag exports have also seen the three highest years on record in 2021-2023, and 2024 is projected to be the fourth-highest year on record despite potential declines.” A bright spot for farmers is that some production costs, including feed, fertilizer, and pesticides, have declined. Data also shows that off-farm income is needed to make ends meet. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Testifies at FMMO Hearing Farm Bureau Chief Economist Roger Cryan testified on behalf of the group’s membership at the Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. His testimony underscored the need for updating Class 1 and Class 2 price differentials to bring fairness for farmers back into the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. Class 1 differentials are meant to incentivize the movement of milk to where it’s demanded and assist in maintaining regional production capacity in a manner that provides consumers with consistent access to fresh milk. The Class 2 differential is meant to represent the higher value of Class 2 milk, which is used in dairy products like ice cream, cottage cheese, and sour cream, while Class 4 milk is used in butter and dairy products. “Our proposal is the reduction or elimination of negative producer price differentials and the de-pooling they cause,” Cryan said in his testimony. “An orderly pool is key for orderly marketing.” *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Seven-Week Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to its lowest level in seven weeks, and inventories also fell during the seven days ending on November 24. The biofuel production fell to an average of 1.011 million barrels a day during the week, down from 1.023 million barrels a week earlier and the lowest level since October 6. The agency says Midwest production hit 950,000 barrels per day, down 13,000 barrels a day from the previous week. Rocky Mountain output fell to an average of 13,000 barrels a day from 14,000 a week earlier. That was all the losses as East Coast production was unchanged from the previous week at 13,000 barrels a day. Gulf Coast production rose by 1,000 barrels a day to an average of 25,000 barrels, and West Coast output rose from 9,000 to 10,000 barrels a day during the week. Ethanol stockpiles dropped to 21.37 million barrels. *********************************************************************************** Officials Secure Extension of Line Speed Trial for Pork Processing Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN), and House Ag Chair Glenn Thompson (R-PA) applauded the USDA’s decision to extend the line speed trial for pork processors. USDA extended the Time-Limited Trial for New Swine Inspection Systems plants but cautioned that the 30-day extension would do little to provide needed clarity for pork producers, who contract with processors many months in advance. The announcement comes after a letter requested Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack issue an extension to ensure that processing plants can continue operating at increased line speeds. “The New Swine Inspection System trial has proven safe and effective at swiftly processing hogs,” Grassley says. “While I’m happy with the extension, USDA risks creating a harmful bottleneck in the pork supply chain if the extension doesn’t go any longer.” House Ag Chair Thompson says, “It’s my hope the department operates transparently to ensure our facilities can maintain full operational capacity.” *********************************************************************************** Producer-Friendly Changes to USDA Programs The USDA has waived certain notice of loss requirements for the 2023 Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). To streamline the access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, the Farm Service Agency is waiving the requirement to submit ELAP or LIP notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible once losses are realized following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. “Our goal is to get producers into those disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Program improvements work best if we ensure producers have sufficient time and information needed to submit their applications.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 1, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Manufacturing reports arrive overnight from around the world and the Institute of Supply Management's manufacturing index for the U.S. will be released at 9 a.m. CST. At 2 p.m., USDA's NASS releases its monthly Fats and Oils report and grain traders continue to keep a close eye on weather in South America. Weather A storm system is moving through the Midwest on Friday, bringing widespread areas of moderate to heavy rain. More scattered and lighter rain is developing farther south to the Gulf of Mexico, though it could be heavier near the coast. The system does not have a lot of cold air to work with but may bring some mix of snow on its northern edge from southern Iowa through Lower Michigan through tonight. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest will continue to see scattered showers for the next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 30, 2023 |
Lawmakers Welcome Extension of Line Speed Trial for Pork Processing Facilities A group of Republican lawmakers welcome USADA’s extension for the Time-Limited Trial for New Swine Inspection System. However, they caution that the short 30-day extension would do little to provide needed certainty for pork producers, who contract with processing facilities many months in advance. The announcement comes weeks after Senator Chuck Grassley and Representative Brad Finstad led a bicameral letter requesting USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack issue the extension to ensure participating processing plants can continue operating at increased line speeds. This is the second time USDA has extended the trial at Grassley and Finstad’s urging. Grassley says, “. While I’m pleased that USDA has taken a step in the right direction by extending the program, the agency risks creating a harmful bottleneck in the pork supply chain if it fails to extend the program beyond just three months.” Finstad adds, “I will continue to urge USDA to provide certainty to our pork processors and producers by permanently allowing them to continue functioning at full operational capacity.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Changes Notice of Loss Requirements for Two Livestock Programs The Department of Agriculture has waived certain notice of loss requirements in 2023 for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish and the Livestock Indemnity Program. In an effort to streamline assistance to support access to critical 2023 natural disaster recovery assistance, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is waiving the requirement to submit Emergency Assistance for Livestock or Livestock Indemnity Program notices of loss within a pre-determined number of days for 2023. Instead, producers have the flexibility to submit 2023 notices of loss as soon as possible, once losses are realized, following a natural disaster event or no later than the established annual program application for payment deadlines for each program. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Our goal is to get producers into these disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible.” Contact your local Farm Service Agency office for more information. *********************************************************************************** Report: Pork exports to China surged During ASF Outbreak The 2018 spread of African swine fever to China had reverberations in the global pork market, according to new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. ASF caused an estimated loss of 27.9 million metric tons in China's pork output from late 2018 to early 2021 and led to a doubling of China's domestic pork prices. The high prices attracted a surge of pork exports from four major suppliers—the European Union, the United States, Brazil, and Canada. While the EU was the top supplier, U.S. pork exports were sizable and reached a record high of more than 287,000 metric tons in the second quarter of 2020. Official data indicate that China's pork production returned to its pre-ASF level in 2021. While exports to China are down from their peak, China is still one of the top three overseas markets for U.S. pork, with sales in the first six months of 2023 exceeding annual totals posted in years before ASF hit China. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Yield Contest Deadline Extended The National Corn Growers association this week extended the National Corn Yield Contest Harvest Entry deadline to December 5. After considering the unique challenges that growers across the country have faced during the 2023 harvest season, NCGA moved the deadline from November 30. Contest participants can submit a harvest entry from now until 4 p.m. CT on Tuesday, December 5, at ncga.com/ncyc. Entry requirements, yield worksheets, and more information are available on that website. Participants must submit their harvest results to be included in the 2023 rankings. The 2023 National Corn Yield Contest Winner's Announcement will still take place on Wednesday, December 13. The NCGA National Corn Yield Contest has been organized to encourage the development of new, sustainable, and innovative management practices resulting in higher yields and to show the importance of using sound agricultural practices in United States corn production. Entrants must be a producer and member of the National Corn Growers Association. *********************************************************************************** Application Period Opens for Regional Agricultural Promotion Program Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the first tranche of funding under the USDA's new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. USDA is providing up to $300 million in funding in its first year to support eligible projects that enable exporters to break into new markets and increase market share in growth markets. Secretary Vilsack announced the funding at the President's Export Council, after announcing the establishment of the program in October. The effort is a $1.2 billion program made possible through the Commodity Credit Corporation, which will be made available over five years. Vilsack says, "It takes significant investment to open and develop new export markets and this new fund will be dedicated to helping provide that start-up capital." The funds are available to non-profit U.S. agricultural trade organizations, non-profit state regional trade groups, agricultural cooperatives, and state agencies that conduct approved market development activities. Applications are due in February and more information is available at grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** RFA Partners with Girls Auto Clinic for Ethanol Education The Renewable Fuels Association has partnered with the Girls Auto Clinic to bring ethanol education and promotion to a new and growing audience: women who are actively interested in auto purchasing, maintenance, and repair. Founded in 2013, Girls Auto Clinic builds and provides tools to drive knowledge and engagement to women, or "shecanics," to own their automotive experiences. The organization empowers women to be fully engaged and confident in purchasing and managing their vehicles, while also increasing the presence of women successfully and happily employed within the automotive industry. RFA Vice President for Industry Relations Robert White says, “It's important for all consumers to understand the value of American-made ethanol, as it provides critical cost savings for families and benefits for the climate and the air we breathe.” Girls Auto Clinic CEO and founder Patrice Banks adds, “with RFA's backing, we can extend our reach, empowering more women across the country to become confident drivers and smart consumers."
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 30, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be posted at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, reports on U.S. personal income and spending in October, the personal consumption expenditures index for October and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. Weather A storm system is building in the Southern Plains on Thursday, which will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms during the day. The storm system will spread into the Ohio Valley tonight through Friday. Precipitation amounts could be moderate and there is a small risk for accumulating snow on the northern edge of the system from parts of Kansas to Michigan tonight through early Saturday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 29, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on third-quarter U.S. GDP will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will follow at 9:30 a.m. with an update of ethanol production. Traders continue to keep close watch on South American weather. Weather A warm front is bringing some light snow to the Great Lakes on Wednesday, but also much warmer air than Tuesday to much of the country east of the Rockies. Another cold front will drop south out of Canada tonight, though, with slightly cooler air to follow for Thursday across the north.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 29, 2023 |
Growth Rate of Ag Output Continues Slowdown In the last decade, the world’s agricultural output grew at an average annual rate of 1.94 percent per year. A USDA report says that’s slower than the 2.74 percent output growth rate over the previous decade and below the average annual rate of 2.3 percent during the last six decades. The slowdown in agricultural growth was primarily tied to a slowing rate of growth in agricultural total factor productivity, or TFP. The world agriculture’s TFP fell to 1.14 percent per year from 2011-2021 compared to 1.93 percent per year during the previous decade. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the aggregated inputs used in the production process, including land, labor, capital, and material resources. There are four major sources of overall growth, such as bringing more land into production, extending irrigation to land, intensifying capital use, labor, and material inputs per unit of land, and improving TFP. *********************************************************************************** Groups Respond to Small Refinery Exemptions Decision A coalition representing farmers and ethanol producers responded to last week’s decision of the Fifth Circuit Court on Small Refinery Exemptions under the Renewable Fuels Standard. The Court remanded to the Environmental Protection Agency its rejection of six small refinery exemption requests. The coalition that includes the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the American Coalition for Ethanol, and the National Farmers Union says they are disappointed by the decision and will continue to defend the Renewable Fuel Standard. “We will continue fighting the illegal abuse of small refinery exemptions,” the groups said in a statement. “As other federal courts have determined, the RFS does not impose an economic burden on oil refiners because any compliance costs are passed down the supply chain.” The groups also say the refiners’ lawsuit wasn’t about economic hardship but more about oil refineries doing everything they could to dodge legal obligations to blend renewable fuels. *********************************************************************************** Grant Applications for Improving School Meals Are Open Applications are now open for the School Food Systems Transformation Challenge Sub-Grants, which is a part of USDA’s Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative. USDA says the grants will transform the K-12 school food marketplace by increasing collaboration between school districts, food producers, suppliers, distributors, and community partners. Students can expect to see improvements in the quality of food on their plates thanks to these new efforts. All eligible applicants are encouraged to consider applying for one or both of the grant opportunities. The first is the Supporting Community Agriculture and Local Education Systems (SCALES) Grant, and the second is Partnerships for Local Agriculture and Nutrition in Schools (PLANTS.) SCALES projects are designed to increase the procurement of locally sourced foods by developing partnerships between schools and producers as well as growers and processors. PLANT projects will support regional efforts to expand scratch-cooked meal programs and create sustainable change for all school districts. *********************************************************************************** Variety Crop Trial Results are Now Available The Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station and the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences have published the 2023 Minnesota Field Crop Trials. Crops included in this year’s trial include barley, canola, corn grain, oats, soybeans, spring wheat, winter rye, and winter wheat. The University of Minnesota field crop trials are done every year to provide unbiased and trustworthy information to help farmers when they are ready to make seed choices. The annual Field Crop Trials are one of the key ways that the University of Minnesota works to bring valuable research into the hands of farmers and ultimately help improve farm profitability, improve the economy, and the overall quality of life for farmers and rural communities. Since the late 1880s, the U of M has published reports of crop variety trials, but it wasn’t until 1948 that the trials were combined into a single annual publication. Go to varietytrials.umn.edu. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections Decline for Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA says inspections of corn, soybeans, and wheat all turned lower during the week ending on November 23. Corn inspections dropped to almost 406,700 metric tons from just over 601,000 a week earlier. That’s still above the 311,700 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Soybean assessments for export fell to 1.44 million tons from 1.63 million the previous week. That’s well below the 2.3 million tons examined during the same week last year. Wheat inspections dropped to 276,600 tons, down from 366,400 tons during the previous week. It’s also lower than the amount of wheat assessed for export during the same week in 2022. Since the start of the marketing year on September 1, the government has inspected 7.27 million metric tons of corn, down from 5.82 million last year. Soybean inspections are at 17.5 million tons, while wheat assessments are two million lower than last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Shows Full Impact of ASF in China An Economic Research Service report shows the full impact of African Swine Fever in China, and the impact was likely more than Chinese officials reported. The agency’s report investigated how China’s reduced pork supplies affected other pork-exporting countries. The virus moved from Europe to China and spread rapidly throughout the country, leading to a 30-month cycle of decline and recovery between 2018 and 2021. China lost an estimated 27.9 million metric tons of its pork production during that 30-month cycle. Pork prices in China more than doubled, with most of the increase occurring about a year after the initial outbreaks. A total of 31 countries saw surging pork exports to China during the down cycle. Impacts on pork markets outside of China were relatively modest. Increases in pork prices in leading exporters like the U.S., Germany, and Spain, were relatively brief and much smaller than the price increases in China.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 28, 2023 |
USMCA Panel Limits U.S. Dairy Access in Canada Late last week, a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute panel allowed Canada to continue restricting dairy access that the U.S. negotiated for under the agreement. The action came after an earlier panel ruled in January 2022 that Canada had improperly restricted access to its market for American dairy products. American agriculture leaders and groups reacted negatively to the decision. “It’s profoundly disappointing that the dispute settlement panel chose obstruction rather than facilitation in trade,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. “We urge USDA and the USTR to look at all available options to ensure that Canada stops playing games with trade agreements.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, says this isn’t the only shortcoming in Canada’s international commitments. “We are committed to working with USTR and USDA to address Canada’s harmful actions that help evade USMCA dairy export disciplines,” she says. *********************************************************************************** More Reaction from USMCA Dairy Decision U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said two of the three USMCA dispute panel members found that Canada’s dairy import policies don’t breach its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. “I’m very disappointed by the findings in the USMCA panel report on Canada’s dairy TRQ allocation measures,” Tai says. “While the United States won a previous USMCA dispute on Canada’s dairy TRQ allocations, Canada’s revised policies still haven’t fixed the problem for U.S. dairy farmers.” In the dispute panel’s report, it found that Canada’s measures are not inconsistent with the USMCA provisions cited by the U.S. The panel split on the U.S. claims that Canada’s exclusion of retailers, food service operators, and others from eligibility and its historical market share approach to allocating dairy TRQs breach its obligations. House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) says, “It’s critical we enforce USMCA as this decision allows Canada to continue with its protectionist practices.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Making Investments in U.S. Food Chains Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is making investments to strengthen American food and agriculture supply chains, expand markets for producers, and lower food costs. “We’re using these investments in agricultural producers and rural entrepreneurs to create better economic opportunities that bolster food supply chains across the country and increase competition,” Vilsack says. “This will result in more affordable prices and choices for consumers, as well as more opportunities and revenues for farmers.” USDA is making investments in 185 projects worth nearly $196 million to create new and better market opportunities in states like Arizona, Illinois, New York, 34 other states, and Puerto Rico. Today’s announcement was made as part of the inaugural meeting of the new White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience. The goal is to lower costs for American families and increase investments in American supply chains that are critical to economic and national security. *********************************************************************************** Jury Rules that Egg Producers Conspired to Fix Prices An Illinois jury found that several of the country’s major egg producers conspired to limit America’s supply of eggs in order to raise prices in a case that began in a federal lawsuit 12 years ago. Several large food manufacturing companies in the lawsuit filed in 2011 said producers used various means to limit the U.S. domestic supply of eggs to increase the price of eggs and egg products during the 2000s. “We are incredibly pleased that the jury held egg producers Cal-Maine Foods and Rose Acre Farms accountable alongside United Egg Producers and United States Egg Marketers for conspiring to inflate the price of eggs,” says Brandon Fox, an attorney for the food manufacturers. Damages will be decided during a trial this week. The jury found the egg suppliers exported eggs to reduce the overall supply in the domestic market and limited the number of chickens available for laying eggs. *********************************************************************************** Nominations are Open for USB’s Legacy Award The United Soybean Board announced a call for nominations for the Tom Oswald Legacy Award. In its second year, this award honors the late Tom Oswald, who will always be remembered as a passionate farmer-leader and dedicated volunteer. The award recognizes someone who went above and beyond to move research and promotion investments forward in a conventional way. “Within our soy community, we are fortunate to have leaders who ensure we’re stewarding farmer checkoff dollars to their full potential,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair. “We look forward to getting numerous worthy nominations and eagerly await the opportunity to celebrate an exceptional leader who’s leading the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for U.S. soy farmers.” If you know an organization, group, or individual that should be recognized for their efforts and passion for the industry, visit the USB website to submit a nomination. Nominations close on January 8, 2024. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Announces Keynote Speaker at 2024 Convention Greg Harden, a best-selling author and former associate athletic director of student counseling at the University of Michigan, will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Farm Bureau convention. He’ll address attendees during the closing session of the annual convention on Monday, January 22. Harden counseled more than 400 student-athletes, including names like Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, Heisman Trophy winners Desmond Howard and Charles Woodson, and Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps. “Persistent, patient, and resilient are among the traits that professional athletes share with farmers and ranchers,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “That’s why Greg’s message about coaching and mentorship is so timely.” Duvall also says the lineup for the entire convention is outstanding. In addition to guest speakers and exciting competitions, they’ll host important conversations about top priorities for U.S. agriculture, including the farm bill. The 105th AFBF convention is in Salt Lake City, Utah, January 19-24, 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 28, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are not many reports Tuesday, but there is a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. CST. Traders continue to closely watch South American weather and could be jumpy after Monday's new lows in corn, wheat and livestock. Weather Cold air moving over the Great Lakes continues to produce lake-effect snow Tuesday, leading to some hefty amounts in some of the more prone areas. The rest of the country will be more quiet. Though it is cold this morning in the Plains, temperatures are forecast to increase significantly this afternoon.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 27, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Slight Warming and Markets Return to Full Time 1. Ag Summit approaches: We're in full swing on registration for our 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, Dec. 5-6. The two half-day sessions will be packed with quick-to-digest presentations on business-critical topics from changing farmland values to finances, interest rates and global economics. 2. Warming trend: While lake-effect snows will continue around the Great Lakes, The Plains will be turn drier and most of the country will see warmer-than-normal temperatures as El Nino conditions continue to build. For longer-term conditions, don't miss DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick's 2024 forecast on Dec. 6 during the DTN Virtual Ag Summit. 3. Volunteers with a view: DTN's Crops Technology Editor Pamela Smith is starting the search for candidates for our annual View From the Cab stories. That highly popular series discusses what's going on in the world of two farm operations, and kicks off just ahead of spring planting. . 4. Watching for awakening markets: As traders come back from the holiday-shortened week, we're watching wheat prices and any surprises from South America. 5. Todd Hultman, will be talking about corn and soybean markets at the Greater Peoria Farm Show through Thursday. Information on that event is here: 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday features a report on new U.S. home sales in October at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, we'll watch the U.S. consumer confidence report set for 9 a.m. Then Wednesday sees the report on third-quarter U.S. GDP, out at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released at 9:30 a.m. Thursday starts with USDA's weekly export sales report, posted at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, reports on U.S. personal income and spending in October, the personal consumption expenditures index for October and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 10 a.m. On Friday, manufacturing reports arrive overnight from around the world and the Institute of Supply Management's index for the U.S. is released at 9 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA's NASS releases its monthly Fats and Oils report.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 27, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather. A report on new U.S. home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. CST Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. CFTC data for the week ended Nov. 21 will also be released Monday afternoon. Weather Colder air east of the Rockies is leading to some lake-effect snows around the Great Lakes for Monday. Overnight lows have become especially cold around the snow that fell in the Central and Southern Plains over the holiday weekend. That snow will slowly melt away this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 24, 2023 |
Most States Saw Growth in Net Farm Income During 2022 The U.S. saw growth of almost 31 percent in net farm income from 2021 through 2022. NFI is a broad measure of farm sector profitability. Researchers with USDA’s Economic Research Service used data from the Farm Income and Wealth Statistics to classify states into six categories of NFI changes. The five agricultural states with the highest NFI include Texas, which had the highest NFI growth at 65 percent from 2021 to 2022, followed by Minnesota at 55.7 percent. Growth in the remaining top five states, including California, Iowa, and Illinois was also strong. Other states among the top 25 for average NFI had a wide range of NFI changes from 2021 to 2022. Many showed strong growth, such as Idaho at 116 percent, Georgia at 104 percent, Florida at just over 100 percent, and North Dakota at 76 percent. However, Kansas and Washington NFI fell 23 and 28 percent, respectively. *********************************************************************************** Study Proves U.S. Corn Superiority The U.S. Grains Council released its second annual Corn Origins Report, which explores the performance of U.S. corn against corn from other countries in poultry diets. U.S., Argentinian, and Brazilian corn samples were collected from an international feed company in Colombia for use in the study. The study found that birds fed diets with U.S. corn consumed less feed throughout the entire grow-out phase compared to those fed Argentinian or Brazilian corn. The lower feed conversion rates in the poultry fed U.S. corn translated into significant long-term cost savings. Depending upon the number of poultry produced, the savings could be very large. The study was done to address customer concerns about the fragility of U.S. corn and the breakage occurring during the export process. “We found that U.S. corn, despite its fragility, outperforms other origins in terms of digestible starch,” says Kurt Schultz, senior director of Global Strategies for USGC. *********************************************************************************** Horizon Organic Suspends Milk from Texas Farm Danone’s (DA-nun’s) Horizon Organic brand says it has suspended all sourcing of milk from Texas supplier Lone Star Organic Dairy. The move comes after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals released a whistleblower’s report appearing to show animal suffering and deaths at the operation. PETA shared its findings with USDA and asked the agency to investigate Lone Star Organic Dairy and revoke its organic qualification for any violations that it confirms. Agriculture Dive says Horizon Organic is the second big dairy brand to be hit by animal abuse allegations in the last several months. Tyler Holm, general manager of Horizon Organic, says, “We are deeply disturbed to see the videos and photos shared by PETA. The care and welfare of cows are a critical part of our company and brand values. We take these allegations seriously.” Danone didn’t say what percentage of milk that Lone Star Contributes to the Horizon brand. *********************************************************************************** Minneapolis Fed Releases Third Quarter Survey Results Heading into harvest in the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Banks’ District, farmers faced lower incomes because of falling commodity prices and rising production costs. A third-quarter survey of ag bankers showed that while incomes fell, the decline wasn’t uniform. Districtwide, 46 percent of agricultural lenders said incomes dropped in the third quarter from a year earlier, up from 35 percent in the second quarter. More than a third of the bankers said farm household spending increased, while slightly more than half reported no change. Capital spending also dropped as 35 percent of the bankers saw decreased investment in equipment and buildings from a year ago, compared to 21 percent who reported increased spending. “Interest rates are slowing down borrowing and capital purchases as cash flows are under more stress,” a Minnesota banker reported. Farm finances remained in good condition despite the negative hit to income. Loan repayment rate held steady. *********************************************************************************** Deere Fourth-Quarter Sales Drop Slightly Deere & Co. sales in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023 fell year-over-year, though the earnings per share did increase. The company says in a report that revenue in the three months ending on September 30 was reported at $15.41 billion, one percent lower than the same quarter last year. The equipment manufacturer also says earnings rose to $8.26 a share from $7.44 a year earlier. Production and precision agriculture sales in the fourth quarter fell six percent to $6.97 billion. Small agriculture and turf revenue was down 13 percent year-over-year to $3.09 billion, and construction and forestry sales rose 11 percent to $3.74 billion. “Production and precision agriculture sales decreased in the fourth quarter due to lower shipment volumes partially offset by price realization,” Deere says. Full-year sales for Deere jumped 16 percent to $61.25 billion, while earnings came in at $34.63 a share versus $23.28 a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** NCGA, BASF Announce 16th Annual Scholarship Program The National Corn Growers Association and BASF have partnered for another year to provide scholarships to undergraduate students passionate about agriculture. Over the past sixteen years, more than 80 undergraduate students have received scholarship funds to aid them in pursuing higher education. “BASF has been a long-standing partner in support of this program, and we are grateful for the commitment to building up the next generation of leaders in our industry,” says Dan Nerud, chair of NCGA’s Member and Consumer Engagement Action Team. “Our grower members are passionate about this program, and we are excited for another year of supporting students who share our passion for agriculture.” The William C. Berg Academic Excellence Undergraduate Scholarship is open to NCGA members and their children pursuing an undergraduate degree in any field. A completed application must be submitted by January 31, 2024. Scholarships are for one year, and previous recipients may not apply.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 24, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be posted at 7:30 a.m. CST on Black Friday, a day known more for store bargains and football games. U.S. grain and livestock futures commence trading at 8:30 a.m. for a short holiday session that has most grain and livestock contracts closed by 12:05 p.m. South American weather will remain the focus for any traders of corn and soybeans that show up for work. Weather A cold front continues to sag south through the country Friday, bringing in a burst of seasonably cold air. In the cold, snow has developed in the central Rockies and Central Plains, which continues Friday. Some bursts and streaks of heavier snow will be possible going into the weekend in these areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 22, 2023 |
Groups Express Concern About Disaster Relief Changes The National Corn Growers and 16 state-affiliated associations joined more than 140 allied national, regional, and state commodity organizations opposing changes to USDA disaster relief. The groups sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack relaying their concerns with the design of the Emergency Relief Program for 2022. While the group showed appreciation for the allocation of $3.74 billion in much-needed ERP assistance, the groups expressed serious concerns with changes. The biggest change is a “progressive factor” that reduces the disaster assistance for many eligible growers based on the size of the losses. USDA also changed the method used to incorporate producer-paid insurance premiums. “In the case of the progressive payment factor, we oppose a policy that delivers the least amount of benefit to those who have lost the most outside of the payment limits provided in the statute,” the letter says. “Support should be equitable for losses of all magnitudes.” *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed Up Two Percent The USDA’s November 1 Cattle on Feed Report says cattle numbers were two percent higher than the previous report. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 1.19 million head on November 1, 2023. That inventory total was two percent higher than on November 1, 2022. Placements in feedlots during October totaled 2.16 million head, four percent higher than in 2022. Net placements were 2.11 million head. During October, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds hit 550,000 head, 600-699 pounds totaled 470,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 465,000 head, and 800-899 pounds were 394,000 head. Cattle weighing 900-999 pounds totaled 205,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 80,000 head. Fed cattle marketings during October totaled 1.76 million head, three percent lower than in 2022. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 head, two percent higher than last year. *********************************************************************************** Strengthening Agriculture’s Talent Pipeline Agriculture Future of America and the National FFA Organization made their partnership official. The groups signed a Memorandum of Understanding during AFA’s Leaders Conference in November. The MOU cements the bond that existed between the two groups and underscores a shared commitment to developing and empowering the next generation of leaders. “AFA and FFA have similar goals and values regarding the role of school-based agricultural education,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. One of the primary objectives of this partnership is to create a seamless pathway for young individuals who are passionate about agriculture to transition from FFA to AFA. By doing so, they’ll get access to a wide array of leadership development opportunities, scholarships, internships, membership programs, and job opportunities. FFA and AFA also intend to collaborate on various projects and initiatives that promote agricultural education and leadership, including the chance to interact with experienced professionals *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Create Jobs and Growth in Rural America USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that the agency is strengthening a longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration. The goal is to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America. “We’re redoubling our commitment to drive economic security and prosperity for people in rural America, so they can find opportunities to succeed right in the places they call home,” Torres Small says. “Strengthening our collaboration with the SBA helps us expand these opportunities for people to build brighter futures for generations to come.” The agencies are committing to increase investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy. They may also work together to provide joint trainings, technical assistance, and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs. They may also help producers and small businesses identify ways to export their products around the world. *********************************************************************************** Dairy FARM Program Announces Excellence Award Winners The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program announced the winners of the third annual FARM Excellence Awards. The FARM Program recognized three farms and one evaluator who go above and beyond industry standards through their commitment to innovation and improvement. The 2023 Excellence Award winners are Ingleside Dairy Farm of Virginia and Newmont Farm in Vermont, and Jim Kaufman of AMPI was named the Evaluator Award winner. The FARM Excellence Award for Environmental Stewardship was awarded to a Dairy Farmers of America farm that wished to remain unnamed. “The FARM Program would not be able to demonstrate the high quality of U.S. dairy without the dedication of our producers and evaluators,” says FARM Program Executive Director Emily Stepp. Winners were announced on November 14 at the Joint Annual Meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, the National Milk Producers Federation, and the United Dairy Industry Association. *********************************************************************************** Montana Singer to Perform National Anthem at CattleCon24 The winner of the 11th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest is Anna Sponheim of Winfred, Montana. Sponheim will sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at CattleCon24 in Orlando, Florida, during the Opening General Session. “I’m elated and grateful to win this contest,” says Sponheim. “I may have been chosen, but this is a win for Montana and everyone who supported me. I hope I can do them proud.” Sponheim grew up helping her family grow wheat, barley, hay, and peas, and raise Black Angus Cows near the Upper Missouri River Basin. After graduating from Montana State University with degrees in agricultural communications and writing, she joined the staff at the Montana Beef Council. “I count it a good day when I can talk to people about the beef industry, the nutrients beef provides, and the positive impact producers have on the environment,” Sponheim adds. For more information or to register, go to convention.ncba.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 22, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims and durable goods orders for October are set for 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released, followed by natural gas storage at 10 a.m. and USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. South American weather continues to get a lot of attention. U.S. grain and livestock futures have normal closes Wednesday, are closed Thursday for Thanksgiving and start again at 8:30 a.m. Friday morning for a short session, in which most contracts close at 12:05 p.m. Weather A system continues to push off the East Coast on Wednesday morning, where some areas of accumulating snow occurred in the Northeast. Another cold front is slipping south through the Canadian Prairies and will press through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. Behind it, precipitation will develop in the northern Rockies and adjacent areas of the Northern Plains and Pacific Northwest, which will amount to accumulating snow tonight into Thanksgiving Day.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 21, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will remain focused on South American weather and are straining for forecasts after this week. A report on U.S. existing home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. CST. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting are set for 1 p.m. Weather A storm system continues to move through the eastern half of the country Tuesday, bringing widespread moderate-to-heavy showers for the Great Lakes down to the Southeast and points eastward. This is mostly occurring as rain, but there is some wintry mix over Michigan and parts of the Northeast will see a mix as well. Winds are a little breezy with this system, too.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |
Survey Reveals Importance of AM Radio The agricultural industry has been one of the biggest supporters of the “AM for Every Vehicle Act” since its introduction. Radio Ink says the industry has spending power of more than $576 billion spread across millions of workers. MRI-Simmons, the leading study of American consumer attitudes and behaviors, explored the media choices of agricultural workers. Those workers are big audio consumers, with more than half qualifying as heavy listeners. They listen to audio 60 percent more than the internet and 51 percent more than television. At the other end of the media spectrum, close to half of all ag workers fall into the light user category for internet and TV and outnumber the heavy users. Eight in 10 ag workers favor AM/FM and tune into radio, ahead of streaming audio, podcasts, and satellite radio. The heavy audio usage is likely because of the fact that it’s an “everywhere” media with easy access. *********************************************************************************** Credit Conditions Soften with Farm Economy Agricultural credit conditions in the Kansas City Fed’s Tenth District softened during the third quarter of 2023. Farm income and loan repayment rates were lower than a year ago for the second straight quarter. The moderation was more pronounced in areas hit hardest by drought, but more tempered in areas most concentrated in cattle production. Conditions have weakened slightly following two years of significant improvement that continued to support loan performance. Despite softening farm finances and substantially higher interest rates, agricultural real estate values in the region remained firm. The ag economy has softened in recent quarters alongside a moderation in commodity prices. Together with elevated production costs, a drop in the price of many key products during the past year has likely reduced farm income in 2023. Despite softening incomes with high-interest costs, ag loan performance has remained solid with ongoing support from strong finances during the past two years. *********************************************************************************** Irrigators Invited to Respond to Irrigation, Water Management Survey The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service mailed survey codes to a selected sample of irrigators across 50 states with an invitation to respond to the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey. The survey is a special study with the 2022 Census of Agriculture and provides the only comprehensive dataset of irrigation activities and water use across American farms, ranches, and horticultural operations. Producer input will aid USDA’s efforts to promote efficient irrigation practices and long-term sustainability of water resources across the U.S. The survey will be mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in January. Producers only need to respond once, either online or by mail. All responses are due by February 15, 2024. “Water is arguably the most important resource for agriculture and horticulture operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “This survey is an opportunity to provide data that will influence policy decisions and impact the industry for years.” *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Board Seats Two New Members The USDA appointed five board members to the American Lamb Board who will contribute their expertise to advance the American Lamb industry. The board members begin their three-year terms in January 2024 and conclude in January 2027 and bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the industry. One new members is Steve Breeding of Seaford, Delaware, a producer with 100 or fewer head. Catherine Harper of Eaton, Colorado, is the other new member and a feeder with less than 5,000 head. “While there are a lot of sheep and lambs grown west of the Mississippi, there is also a lot on the east coast that people don’t always remember,” Breeding says. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with that group and putting the East Coast on the map.” Harper is a 26-year-old from Colorado who runs 3,500 sheep of her own in addition to the feedlot her family runs. *********************************************************************************** Challenge Ahead for Deere Patent Lawsuit Ruling Kinze Manufacturing says while it can’t comment on ongoing litigation, the company did say that a jury in the Southern District of Iowa issued a verdict it doesn’t agree with. The jury found that the True Speed and Sure Speed systems infringe on certain Deere and Company patents. Kinze and Ag Leader say they “strongly disagree” with the verdict and intend to pursue their rights to challenge the verdict. An Iowa jury returned a verdict on October 30 that found Kinze and Ag Leader had infringed on several John Deere patents regarding True Speed/Sure Speed technology. The jury sided with Deere on four claims of patent infringement but found that Deere didn’t prove the infringements were willful. Additionally, the jury found that Kinze and Ag Leader’s countersuit did not prove any of Deere’s asserted claims were invalid. The jury said Deere was entitled to over $14 million in royalty compensation. *********************************************************************************** Survey Discovers Top Thanksgiving Leftovers Pumpkin pie, turkey, gravy, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole are some of the time-honored foods found at most Thanksgiving tables. But a survey shows those are also some of the top day-after sandwich items. A Harris Poll survey did a deep dive into America’s favorite Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. More than 94 percent of the respondents dine on a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. Stapes like gravy (42 percent), ham (41 percent), and stuffing (39 percent) trailed turkey (81 percent) as the most popular items that belong on a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. Pumpkin pie-filled sandwiches were a must-have ingredient in a leftover sandwich for 11 percent of the respondents. Americans also love adding hot dish leftovers into their post-Thanksgiving sandwiches, with Mac and Cheese (21 percent), Green Bean Casserole (14 percent), corn casserole (10 percent), and broccoli casserole (nine percent) reported by survey participants. White bread (20 percent) was the bread winner for sandwiches.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Give Thanks During a Shortened Week 1. Short markets week for Thanksgiving: As we gather stories for the week, families will gather across the country to give thanks for the year that was 2023. We hope it has been a positive year for our readers and their families, despite the many challenges the year brought. DTN's holiday coverage schedule will look like this: Wednesday markets open and close as normal, we'll have normal Closing Market Video and Six Factor strategies updates for DTN subscribers. Thursday, U.S. markets are closed, but Canadian markets are open so DTN Canadian Analyst Cliff Jamieson will still have some market updates. On Friday, grain and livestock futures markets open at 8:30 a.m.; we will carry Early Word Grains and Before the Bell grains comments that morning ahead of the opening. Most grain and livestock futures markets will close at 12:30 p.m. We will not have a Closing Markets video that afternoon, and the CFTC will not release updated position data until Nov. 27. 2. Reminder on Ag Summit: There is still plenty of time to sign up for the 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, Dec. 5-6. We'll have sessions on a number of business-critical topics from interest rates, changing farmland values and global economics. 3. Holiday cold snap: Rain systems during the Nov. 18 weekend will bring colder air in for the holiday and the following weekend. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick notes that temperatures may reach even lower than current estimates. He adds the dip will likely hold through the first days of December, but then temperatures should be milder. El Nino usually means a mild December in the U.S., and Baranick says weather models have a very "El Nino look" to them, at least through mid month. That's not good news for winter wheat. 4. Eyes on South America: Traders continue to watch weather and crop conditions in South America, particularly Brazil. Conditions there are expected to be wetter in the south, drier in northern states. Argentina has seen inconsistent rainfall of late but is still in much better shape than 2022. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday -- The index of U.S. leading indicators will be out at 9 a.m., followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday the report on U.S. existing home sales in October will be out at 9 a.m. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting will be revealed at 1 p.m. On Wednesday, U.S weekly jobless claims and durable goods orders for October come out at 7:30 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be released, followed by natural gas storage at 10 a.m. and USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. On Thursday, U.S. futures markets are closed for Thanksgiving. On the shortened market day Friday, we'll see USDA weekly export sales posted at 7:30 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 20, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather. The index of U.S. leading indicators will be out at 9 a.m. CST Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections at 10 a.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A storm system moved into the Plains on Sunday and will continue to develop and move east Monday. It will spread showers through much of the middle of the country today, including a risk of severe weather in the Lower Mississippi Valley where rain is most welcome.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |
USDA Announces Release Details for 2022 Census of Ag The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will release the 2022 Census of Agriculture data on February 13, 2024. NASS concluded the data collection during the summer with a preliminary national return rate of 61 percent. “On behalf of everyone at USDA, I’d like to thank the millions of producers who gave their time and effort to complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Ag census data will inform decisions about policy, farm and conservation programs, rural development, research, technology development, ag education, and more during the next several years.” He also says the data will have a very real impact on producers, their farming operations, and communities. The ag census data will be available at nass.usda.gov and in the NASS searchable database. Like all NASS data, ag census data will only be available in aggregate form, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified. *********************************************************************************** Consumer Report Highlights Thanksgiving Meal Plans Approximately 79 percent of Americans are gearing up for a Thanksgiving meal next week. Purdue University’s Consumer Food Insights says among that crowd, 37 percent plan to host the meal, 43 percent have chosen to attend, and the rest plan to dine out during the holiday. Turkey prices are 10-15 percent lower than last year. However, people are still bracing for higher prices and planning to budget even more for this year’s meal. The report explores consumer food behaviors for the upcoming holiday across different U.S. regions. While turkey is planned to be the centerpiece nationwide, each region has its own traditions. The South is more likely to serve macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and ham. Meanwhile, pies seem to be a stronger tradition in the Midwest. Many consumers attending or hosting Thanksgiving believe travel costs to get to their preferred destination will be higher this year compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Says Farm Share of Food Dollar Dipped Further in 2022 America’s farms received 14.9 cents per dollar spent on domestically produced food in 2022 as compensation for farm commodity production. This portion called the farmer’s share is a decrease of 0.3 cents from a revised 15.2 cents in 2021. The farm share covers operating expenses and input costs from non-farm establishments. The remaining portion of the U.S. food dollar is called the marketing share, which covers the costs of getting domestically produced food from farms to points of purchase. That includes the costs of transportation, processing, and selling to consumers. One of the factors behind the long-term downward trend in the farm share is an increasing proportion of food-away-from-home spending. Farms get a lower portion of dollars spent on food away from home because of the added costs of preparing and serving meals. The Economic Research Service uses input-output analysis to calculate the farm and marketing shares of a food dollar. *********************************************************************************** National Sorghum Producers Announce New Executive Director National Sorghum Producers is pleased to announce the hire of Greg Ruehle as its new Executive Director. Ruehle brings a wealth of experience in agriculture and association management to his new role. His leadership comes at a pivotal time as NSP continues to grow and expand its impact on the sorghum industry. He was raised on a diversified grain and livestock farm in northwest Iowa. “We are thrilled to welcome Greg as the new NSP Executive Director,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “As our association continues to grow and with the expansion of the Partnerships for the Climate-Smart Commodities grant, we are stepping up expanded leadership in our organization.” He’s a past president and CEO for the Independent Professional Seed Association, the Nebraska Cattlemen, and ServiTech, Inc. “Sorghum’s time has definitely come,” Ruehle says. “From water conservation to reduced GHG emissions, sorghum has an expanding role to play, and I’m excited.” *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Animal Agriculture Water Quality Committee The Environmental Protection Agency published a Federal Register Notice on November 16 establishing the Animal Agriculture Water Quality subcommittee. It’s under the umbrella of the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee. Nominations are open for members who want to serve on the AAWQ subcommittee. The primary subcommittee goal will be to develop recommendations that will inform the Agency’s decisions regarding how to improve the implementation of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System’s (NPDES) Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation permitting program. That program is designed to reduce nutrients and other types of water pollutants more effectively from Animal Feeding Operations. EPA says it’s committed to working with stakeholders, advocates, communities, and industry to explore how to achieve water quality improvements related to CAFOs. The EPA is accepting subcommittee nominations until January 2, 2024. The agency welcomes nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates for appointment to serve on the subcommittee. *********************************************************************************** USDA Scheduling 2024 Trade Missions Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack released the next steps in the Department’s efforts to bolster U.S. ag trade, including the agency’s planned trade missions for 2024. Ag exports totaled a record $196 billion in 2022 following a record-setting year in 2021. USDA plans to build on recent successes and highlight export opportunities in additional markets through a robust agribusiness trade mission schedule next year. USDA will lead trade missions to several markets, including Seoul, Korea; New Delhi, India; Vancouver, Canada; Bogota, Colombia; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam; and Casablanca, Morocco. In addition, Vilsack announced a public comment period for the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. Combined, these efforts will help support further growth in U.S. agricultural exports and introduce high-quality U.S. agricultural products to new markets. “Market diversification is an important tool for maximizing growth opportunities for U.S. agriculture, as well as hedging the risk of market contraction,” Vilsack says.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |
WOTUS Lawsuits Restart in Fed Courts - States, Ag Groups Wage Fight Against Amended WOTUS Rule in Federal Courts LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- A total of 26 states and a group of agriculture interests have renewed the legal fight against the Biden administration's Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, filing amended complaints in federal courts this week aimed at an amended rule finalized in September. The renewed legal fight is playing out in federal courts in Texas and North Dakota. After the Supreme Court ruled against EPA in Sackett v. EPA earlier this year, President Joe Biden's administration finalized an amended rule on Sept. 8, 2023, that removed the use of the significant-nexus test in making Clean Water Act (CWA)determinations -- without conducting a public comment period. NO PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD PROVIDED The states argue in an amended complaint filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota, that EPA committed several violations of the Administrative Procedure Act, including not providing a public comment period before releasing the amended final rule. The states are Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Two other states, Texas and Idaho, have filed a separate amended complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The states also argue the amended rule violates the Clean Water Act and the Constitution, asking the court to vacate the rule and send it back to the EPA. "The amended final rule, that is the final rule as modified by the conforming rule, remains riddled with problems," the states said in the complaint. NO REASONABLE CONNECTION The states said the rule includes waters with "no reasonable connection to navigable waters" and is arbitrary and capricious "because, among many things, it embraces vague standards with little justification and minimal consideration of costs." The initial lawsuit filed in February asked the court to throw out the Biden rule, claiming the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers "toppled the cooperative federalism regime" by implementing a rule that is "overbroad and hopelessly vague." That initial lawsuit resulted in an injunction against the rule's enforcement in the 24 states. "Meanwhile, if the amended final rule is left in place, then ranchers, farmers, miners, homebuilders and other landowners across the country will struggle to undertake even the simplest of activities on their own property without fear of drawing the ire of the federal government," the states said in the new complaint. "Landowning Americans of all stripes will thus be left with a choice: fight their way through an expensive and lengthy administrative process to obtain complex jurisdictional determinations and permits or face substantial civil and criminal penalties. The amended final rule's ambiguous environmental benefits do not justify any of this." Two state-level agriculture groups in North Dakota, including the Cass County Farm Bureau and North Dakota Farm Bureau, that intervened in the case on behalf of the states also filed an amended complaint this week. "The amended rule failed, however, to address numerous other significant flaws in the 2023 rule," the ag groups said in their complaint. The ag groups pointed to one example of a problem in the amended rule. WOTUS DEFINITION The definition of WOTUS applies the relatively permanent standard to tributaries to traditional navigable waters, the territorial seas, interstate waters or impoundments of WOTUS, intrastate lakes and ponds, streams, or wetlands, and wetlands adjacent to and with a continuous surface connection to relatively permanent impoundments, and wetlands adjacent to tributaries that meet the relatively permanent standard. Texas and Idaho, as well as a group of agriculture interest groups, have filed their amended complaints against EPA in lawsuits that were first filed in January 2023. In an amended complaint filed by Texas and Idaho in the U.S. District Court for the District of Southern Texas in Galveston, the states allege the EPA promulgated the final amended rule without allowing public comment. "They used the Sackett opinion to justify depriving the public and plaintiffs of notice and the opportunity to comment on a rule with nationwide importance," according to the Texas and Idaho complaint. Leading up to the drafting of the Biden rule, ag groups and others asked the administration to hold off on the rulemaking until the Supreme Court ruled on the Sackett case. "The amended 2023 rule maintains the ambiguity of the 2023 rule, leaving those wishing to identify the ambit of federal power over dry land or minor water features at the mercy of an expensive, vague and arbitrary analysis, lest they face a staggering criminal or civil penalty," the states said. OTHER INTEREST GROUPS Also filing an amended complaint in the Texas court was a group of 18 interest groups from the agriculture, oil and housing industries. The American Farm Bureau Federation is joined in the amended lawsuit by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Pork Producers Council, Matagorda County Farm Bureau, Public Lands Council, Texas Farm Bureau and U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, as well as the American Petroleum Institute. They have asked the Texas court to declare the amended rule unlawful. "The amended rule fails to remedy the vagueness concerns in the 2023 rule, and thus imposes impossible and unpredictable burdens on landowners, users and purchasers," the groups said. "It requires them to assess not only their own land but also vast expanses of land beyond their own holdings, using multiple vaguely defined connections to potentially remote features, in an effort to determine if their land is regulated under the CWA. The consequence is a sweeping and unwieldy regulation that leaves the identification of jurisdictional waters so opaque, uncertain and all-encompassing that plaintiffs and their members and clients cannot determine whether and when the most basic activities undertaken on land will subject them to drastic criminal and civil penalties."
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 17, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Traders remain highly interested in South American weather. A report on U.S. housing starts for October is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday. USDA's monthly Cattle on Feed report for Nov. 1 is set for 2 p.m. Cattle traders have been anxious ever since the October report showed higher-than-expected placements. A 7% increase in placements from a year ago is anticipated in Friday's report. Weather A cold front continues to race through the central and eastern parts of the country Friday, providing some rain to the Eastern Corn Belt and sending temperatures back to normal briefly. We will see them perk up this weekend ahead of a pattern-changing system that is now off the coast of California.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 16, 2023 |
Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Drops Slightly This year’s Thanksgiving Day dinner won’t be as hard on the checkbook as it was in 2022. However, the meal will still reflect historically high costs. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 38th annual survey provides a snapshot of the average costs of this year’s holiday feast for 10, which is $61.17 or less than $6.20 per person. This is a 4.5 percent decrease from last year’s record-high of $64.05, but a Thanksgiving meal is still 25 percent higher than in 2019. The centerpiece of a traditional meal is turkey, which helped bring down the overall cost. A 16-pound turkey averages $27.35 or $1.71 per pound, down 5.6 percent from 2022. Cranberries took the sharpest drop as a 12-ounce bag averages $2.10, down 18 percent from last year. The cost for a classic meal was cheapest in the Midwest at $58.66. The Northeast was the most expensive at a cost of $88.43. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud House Passing Farm Bill Extension Competitive Markets Action and the Organization for Competitive Markets applauded the House of Representatives for passing H.R. 6363, which included a one-year extension of the current farm bill. “We applaud Speaker Mike Johnson and House leadership for swiftly passing the bill by an overwhelming margin in the chamber closest to the American people,” says Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action. “We are grateful to Ag Committee Chair Glenn ‘G.T.’ Thompson for securing an extension of the farm bill through the Fall of 2024.” They also say the maneuver offers ample time and opportunity to get the job done right. “We also hope House and Senate leaders will produce a new farm bill that brings clarity to the marketplace by preventing the nullification of countless state and local agriculture laws that some legislators are seeking to wipe out,” Irby adds. “We’re hoping to bring significant reform to USDA’s commodity checkoff programs.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Support for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced the agency is investing $27.9 million across 45 organizations that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers, including veterans. “The next generation of farmers and ranchers hold the promise for the future of American agriculture and rural prosperity,” says Torres Small. “We’re providing our newest producers with the support they need to succeed and the educational resources to guide their operations on the path toward long-term sustainability and profitability.” The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program which supports a wide range of professional development activities and topics, such as managing capital, acquiring and managing land, and learning effective business and farming practices. As the average age of U.S. producers continues increasing, Torres Small says the agency is accelerating efforts to provide meaningful support to a large number of upcoming farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Grain Storage Outlook Improves The profit outlook for U.S. grain elevators storing corn and soybeans has improved significantly for the 2023-2024 marketing year with buy basis falling and carries returning to the futures markets. The world market is currently awash in grains, and CoBank says global supplies of corn and soybeans are abundant. The current challenge for grain elevators is simply getting ownership of bushels. Farmers have been reluctant to sell as corn and soybean prices are down sharply from their peaks early in the year. A new report from CoBank says the challenge of getting bushels should begin slowing in early 2024. The rising cost environment will likely compel farmers to begin selling in January, February, and March 2024 to generate cash ahead of next spring’s planting and operating expenses. “Higher land rents and borrowing costs combined with rising input prices will likely compel farmers to sell in 2024,” says Tanner Ehmke of CoBank. *********************************************************************************** Dairy’s Long-Term Outlook is Bright The future of America’s dairy farming is bright as global growth and American production capacity and innovation combine to create a “powerhouse.” Gregg Doud is the incoming president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. “In terms of the protein world, dairy is a huge part of the future,” Doud says. “As a former Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, I can tell you the opportunities are there for U.S. dairy’s taking with robust outreach and appeals to the world’s consumers.” Doud made his remarks during the NMPF’s annual meeting in Florida. During the past year, America’s dairy producers faced operating margins at their lowest since the federal dairy safety net was adopted in its current structure in 2014 as prices plummeted from record highs. Forecasts during a panel discussion showed an improving price outlook for next year, even as inflation continues to be a challenge for consumers. *********************************************************************************** Dolcini Joins American Farmland Trust Board of Directors Val Dolcini (Dole-CHEE-nee) was unanimously elected to the American Farmland Trust Board of Directors by the AFT members. Dolcini is the U.S. Head of Sustainability and Government Affairs for Syngenta and will support the members’ efforts to promote sound farming practices while protecting and keeping farmers on the land. “We are thrilled to have Val join AFT to help us grow to new heights in the future,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (Pee-AHT-tee). “Val’s diverse and extensive experience in agriculture and passion for our work will be an invaluable asset for AFT in the years to come.” Dolcini’s work spans over 25 years of agricultural policy and management experience in the state, federal, and nonprofit sectors. “Farming and agriculture have been my focus and passion throughout my entire career,” says Dolcini. “I specifically want to focus my time on the board to expand opportunities for new and beginning farmers.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 16, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's updated report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The International Grains Council issues its monthly report Thursday and, at 2 p.m., USDA will provide its Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook. Weather A little system developed along a front near the Canadian border Wednesday night and will push that front quickly through the northern half of the Plains and Upper Midwest on Thursday. The front will not have much precipitation with it but will cause breezy winds and a drop in temperatures. The front will get more active east of the Mississippi River for Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 15, 2023 |
NFU Releases Farmer’s Share of Thanksgiving Food Dollar The National Farmers Union released its Farmers’ Share of the Food Dollar Report for items typically served during the Thanksgiving holiday. These figures reflect how much family farmers earn compared to the amount consumers pay at the grocery store. Consumers are likely to see an increase when they shop for the holiday meal, but little of that increase will get passed on to American farmers and ranchers. An 11-pound turkey retails for $21.89, with the farmer’s share at 66 cents. A 12-ounce box of stuffing is $3.99, and the farmer gets nine cents. Sixteen-ounce frozen sweet corn costs $2.99, and the farmer gets 41 cents. Pumpkin pie filling is $1.79 a can, and farmers get 16 cents. A five-pound bag of mashed potatoes costs $3.99, and farmers get 64 cents. A two-pound boneless ham is $12.98, with the farmer receiving $1.32. Twelve-ounce cranberries are $2.99, and the farmer’s share is 29 cents. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Calls for More Farm Bill Urgency Debbie Stabenow, Senate Ag Committee Chair, is looking for more urgency from farm groups about getting a new farm bill in place. The Fence Post says Stabenow recalled farm bill negotiations dragging on during 2013 and says there was a “sense of urgency” in the agricultural community about getting it done. However, the Michigan Senator says she doesn’t get that same sense of urgency now. While an extension is considered important, she says it’s absolutely vital that Congress get a new farm bill written and passed in 2024. “I want to hear more of a sense of urgency from ag groups,” Stabenow told a group of reporters after a hearing. John Boozman (BOZE-man), ranking member from Arkansas, says he believes farm groups are “expressing urgency.” However, farm leaders know times are so different from 2018 and that “we don’t just need to do something, we need to do the right thing.” *********************************************************************************** November Oil Crops Outlook Increases Soybean Production, Stocks This month, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service raised the 2023-2024 national average soybean yield to 49.9 bushels an acre in its Crop Production Report. That’s up from 49.6 bushels an acre in the previous report. This revision has increased the 2023-2024 soybean production forecast by 25 million bushels to 4.13 billion bushels. Higher yields in Wisconsin, Tennessee, Ohio, North Dakota, and South Dakota have contributed to the higher yield forecast. With soybean crush and exports unchanged this month, soybean ending stocks for the 2023-2024 marketing year are now forecast at 245 million bushels. The season-average soybean price forecast is unchanged this month at $12.90 a bushel. With the U.S. soybean supply forecast for 2023-2024 at 4.43 billion bushels, 25 million higher than last month’s forecast with unchanged demand, soybean ending stocks were raised to 245 million bushels. U.S. soybean oil production for the 2022-2023 marketing year is finalized at 26.2 billion pounds. *********************************************************************************** CHS Foundations Awards $4.3 Million to National FFA Foundation The CHS Foundation announced grants of $4.3 million to the National FFA Organization, continuing a partnership to support the next generation of agricultural leaders. “We are thrilled to continue this partnership with CHS,” says Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation. “Throughout our partnership, CHS has been unwavering in its support and continues to see the potential leaders in each of our members and advisors.” The grants will help fund FFA programs in 17 states, provide scholarships for attending conferences and contests, and introduce students from all backgrounds to ag careers through the workforce development program. It will also support the National Association of Ag Educators in attracting ag teachers and building strong teaching programs. “CHS and its foundation are proud to make the largest gift in the foundation’s 75-year history to the National FFA,” says Megan Wolle, president of the CHS Foundation. “We’re connecting to the next generation of leaders.” *********************************************************************************** Paraguay Beef Imports Won’t Boost Tight U.S. Supplies USDA’s decision to accept beef imports from Paraguay for the first time in 25 years will likely not change the overall volume of U.S. imports, even during tight supplies and high prices. U.S. meat importers tell Reuters that’s due to a quota on shipments. American beef prices set records this year because of herd contraction to its smallest level in decades. As a result, meat companies are relying on more imports to process enough ground beef to meet demand. Paraguay didn’t negotiate with the U.S. to sell beef under its own quota agreement. That means it has to compete with other countries in the same situation to fill a group tariff-rate quota. The quota for these countries, including Brazil, Ireland, Japan, and Namibia, is approximately 650,000 metric tons. Suppliers already filled that quota earlier this year. Suppliers face a steep 26 percent tax on the value of products shipped above the quota. *********************************************************************************** Beyond Meat Struggling to Stay Afloat An industry analyst says Beyond Meat may need to reach into the financial markets next year to stay in business. Ag Funder News says the firm posted a $70.5 million net loss in the third quarter. Net revenues slid again at the plant-based meat company in Q3, dropping eight percent year-over-year and 26 percent versus the prior quarter. Beyond Meat did see positive free cash flow in the third quarter, but the company doesn’t expect to sustain it. Industry analysts are saying that the firm is now in “survival mode” and will need to tap the financial markets in 2024 to stay afloat. CEO Ethan Brown says the company anticipated a modest return to growth in the third quarter that did not occur. “We did see pockets of growth, especially in the EU, where we saw double-digit gains in net revenues,” Brown says. “But we are still disappointed with the overall results.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 15, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, the U.S. producer price index and retail sales reports for October will be released. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out with updated data after last week's absence, due to system upgrades. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will have an estimate of members' soybean crush later Wednesday morning. At 2 p.m., USDA will have new cost of production forecasts for 2023. U.S. President Joe Biden and China's President Xi Jinping are set to meet in San Francisco Wednesday and traders will be keenly watching any trade-related comments. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will continue to produce areas of showers in eastern sections on Wednesday. A cold front is also setting up along the Canadian border from Montana to North Dakota that will produce a band of showers there Wednesday night, mostly in the form of snow. Otherwise, the majority of the country will be dry and warm by mid-November standards.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 14, 2023 |
Ag Committee Leaders Agree on One-Year Farm Bill Extension Leaders of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees came to an agreement on extending the lifespan of the 2018 Farm Bill by one year. The agreement came with the release of a House Republican proposal funding USDA operations through January 19. A 32-page continuing resolution contained 17 pages on farm bill extension and provided some funding for small-ticket programs that had run out, such as feral swine eradication. Dairy subsidies would be extended through December 31, 2024, to avert a looming dairy cliff on January 1. Leaders from both ag committees say the extension “in no way” substitutes in place of a five-year farm bill. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson revealed a two-part funding package that would provide money for some federal operations, including USDA, for two months and through February 2 for the rest of government. The extension depends on House, Senate, and White House agreement on the CR. *********************************************************************************** FAO Predicts Decline International Foodstuffs Trade The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization predicts a declining international trade in foodstuffs for multiple reasons. While the organization’s latest forecasts point to favorable production outlooks for most basic foodstuffs, global food production systems remain vulnerable to several risks. Those challenges include extreme weather events, rising geopolitical tensions, and policy changes that could potentially tip the delicate supply-demand balances and dampen prospects for international trade in food commodities and global food security. The global food import bill is forecast to reach a new high of $2 trillion in 2023. High-income and upper-middle-class countries are expected to lead the increase. Other challenges include the cost of shipping those foodstuffs. Dry bulk freight costs across the grains and oilseeds routes mostly edged higher during the six months leading up to October 2023 but remained well below last year’s levels. However, robust demand has led to a recent rebound in freight rates. *********************************************************************************** Hearing on Carbon-Capture Pipeline Ends in Iowa Summit Carbon Solutions presented a request to Iowa regulators to build a $5.5 billion carbon capture pipeline. Local reports say Iowa regulators recently concluded a hearing on the subject. However, deciding whether the company should get a construction permit and eminent domain powers to get land for the pipeline could take many months. The Sierra Club’s Iowa Chapter opposes the project. Sierra’s attorney says regulators likely won’t issue a decision until March or April. That allows enough time needed to file legal documents and responses. Summit’s pipeline would also run through South Dakota and into Minnesota and Nebraska. The company says the pipeline is critical to helping ethanol remain marketable as the nation seeks to lower its greenhouse gas emissions. Iowa residents are concerned about safety and property rights. Summit says it has agreements in place with 75 percent of the affected landowners, and the project will exceed federal safety standards. *********************************************************************************** FFA, 4-H Members Admitted Free to NCBA Trade Show The next generation of agricultural leaders are invited to attend the NCBA Trade Show at CattleCon24 for free on Friday, February 2. FFA and 4-H members can get that free admission on Next Gen Ag FFA & 4-H Day, which will include a variety of events and activities for youth and families. Courtesy of Culver’s, the first 250 FFA members to register will receive complimentary Friday NCBA trade show admission. Nationwide is providing complimentary Friday NCBA Trade Show admission to the first 250 4-H members who register. Trade Show attendees can explore more than eight acres of displays and exhibitors offering the latest advancements in equipment, technology, and feed supplements. To get the free Friday NCBA Trade Show registration, FFA members must use the code FFACULVERS, and 4-H members, 4HNW. A variety of other registration options are available. For more information and to register and reserve housing, go to convention.ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Reducing Beef Exports as Herd Shrinks The nation’s ranchers slashed the U.S. cattle herd to its lowest level in decades. As a result, the U.S. is importing record amounts of beef this year and exporting much less. The steep drop in cattle numbers has led to significantly higher beef prices. Reuters says those high prices make companies look to import cheaper beef and discourage American beef purchases by buyers like China, Japan, and Egypt. The USDA expects the U.S. to drop to fourth in the rankings for the largest beef and veal exporters, down from number two last year. America’s beef exports are projected to sink 14 percent from 2022 to three billion pounds, the lowest level since COVID slowed meat processing and international trading in 2020. USDA expects American beef production to decline further in 2024 due to tight cattle supplies, and beef exports are forecast to hit an eight-year low of 2.8 billion pounds. *********************************************************************************** Ag Export Values Dropped in FY 2023 Agricultural export values in fiscal year 2023 that ran through September 30 declined while imports narrowly increased. Agricultural product values from October 2022 through the end of September were reported to be $178.7 billion, down from $196.1 billion a year earlier. A USDA report last week said import values rose 0.6 percent to $195.4 billion. Corn exports were the second-biggest decliner behind only vegetable oils with the value falling 32 percent to $13.1 billion. Cotton fell 28 percent, wheat values were down 21 percent, and soybeans dropped two percent year-over-year. The agency says the volume of corn exports dropped 32 percent, wheat shipments slipped 14 percent, and soybeans declined seven percent. Mexico was the biggest buyer of U.S. corn by volume during the fiscal year, purchasing 16.5 million metric tons of the grain, a narrow drop compared to the previous year. China bought the most beans, and Mexico the most wheat.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 14, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders remain fixated on South American weather and the latest export sales news. The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for October will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders may become a little jumpy later this week, if no agreement is reached to avoid a government shutdown by the November 17 deadline. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will continue to produce showers near the coast for Tuesday. Elsewhere will be rather dry and warm in most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |
September Pork Exports Steady, Beef Lower September U.S. pork exports were slightly lower than a year ago but maintained a robust pace. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows pork exports reached 221,140 metric tons, one percent less than last year, while export value dropped four percent to $643.7 million. For the first three quarters of this year, pork exports rose nine percent year-over-year to 2.13 million metric tons and climbed seven percent in value to almost $6 billion. “Pork exports achieving another $200 million month in Mexico is fantastic,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Beef exports continued struggling compared to 2022 but showed increasing strength in Western Hemisphere markets. Beef exports totaled 98,757 metric tons, 15 percent below last year and the lowest total of 2023. Value fell 12 percent to $797.5 million. Exports were lower across the board in Asia but picked up momentum in Mexico, Canada, and other locations. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports Increased Poultry Transparency National Farmers Union President Rob Larew supports the finalized “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments” rule from the USDA under the Packers and Stockyards Act. He says monopolies in agriculture have put the squeeze on farmers and consumers for far too long. “Poultry growers face an especially unfair contracting system that’s opaque and secretive,” Larew says. “This finalized rule issued last week will require poultry companies to be more honest in their dealings with growers.” He also calls this good news for family farmers and will bring strong rules to promote sorely needed transparency for livestock producers. The final poultry rule released last week is the first of several updates USDA wants to make to the Packers and Stockyards Act. USDA also announced efforts to increase competition and innovation in seeds, improvements to USDA meat procurement requirements, and the establishment of a new Chief Competition Officer position at USDA. *********************************************************************************** Injecting Carbon Into National Forests and Grasslands The U.S. Forest Service proposed a change in regulations that would allow it to consider requests to inject carbon dioxide beneath the 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Currently, the Forest Service is barred from authorizing “exclusive and perpetual use and occupancy” of its land by outsiders, a prohibition that would apply to carbon storage because the gas would remain underground for hundreds of years. The proposed regulation would create an exemption for carbon capture and storage projects. If approved, the USDA agency could “authorize proposed carbon capture and storage on National Forest Service system lands where and if it’s deemed appropriate.” Public comments on the carbon injection idea will be accepted until January 2. The Forest Service says the proposed rule would harmonize carbon storage regulations with the Bureau of Land Management, the other major federal land manager. The BLM issued its carbon storage policy in July 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Opposes Beef Imports from Paraguay The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association opposes the USDA’s decision to allow Paraguayan beef imports starting next month. NCBA has repeatedly raised concerns with USDA over Paraguay’s history of foot-and-mouth disease and the outdated information used to justify Paraguay’s access to the U.S. market. NCBA is concerned that USDA’s failure to use information from recent site visits in the risk assessment may pose a risk to the safety of the U.S. cattle herd. “USDA based their decision on a deeply flawed risk assessment that uses old data from site visits that were conducted more than nine years ago,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Paraguay has a history of FMD outbreaks, and it’s unclear if their inspection system can provide an equivalent level of safety for animal health to prevent possible FMD on U.S. soil.” He also says diplomacy shouldn’t be done on the backs of U.S. cattle producers. *********************************************************************************** Genetically Modified Seed Prices Rising Faster Than Non-GM Prices paid for crop seed increased significantly faster than the prices farmers received for crop commodities between 1990 and 2020. During that period, the average prices farmers paid for all seed rose by 270 percent, while the crop commodity price index rose 56 percent. For crops planted predominantly with genetically modified (GM) seed, like corn soybeans, and cotton, those seed prices rose by an average of 463 percent between 1990 and 2020. During this period, GM seed prices peaked in 2014 at 639 percent above 1990 levels. Despite their higher cost, GM crop varieties have provided significant productivity gains for farmers, partly through higher yield, but also by lowering farm production costs. For example, GM traits for insect resistance reduce the need for pesticide applications. Similarly, GM traits for herbicide tolerance provide a substitute for mechanical tillage, thus reducing the cost of labor, machinery, and fuel previously used in controlling weeds. *********************************************************************************** Corn, Soybean Export Sales Rise USDA data shows that export sales of corn, soybeans, and wheat were all higher for the week ending on November 2. Corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 1.02 million metric tons. That’s 36 percent higher than the previous week and four percent higher than the prior four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 384,800 metric tons. Corn exports for the week totaled almost 825,000 tons, the highest in the marketing year so far. Soybean sales rose seven percent above the prior week to 1.08 million metric tons but was still eight percent lower than the four-week average. China was the top buyer at 692,400 metric tons. Soybean exports reached 2.24 million tons; 12 percent higher than the previous week. Wheat sales through November 2 totaled 354,300 tons, 29 percent above the prior week but still 26 percent below the four-week average. Wheat exports rose 34 percent to 134,300 tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Ag Summit Registration, Low River Levels and Active Markets 1. Ag Summit launch: Watch DTN pages and the November Progressive Farmer magazine for announcements on the 2023 DTN Virtual Ag Summit, December 5-6. We'll have sessions on a number of business-critical topics from changing farmland values to finances, interest rates and global economics. To register for the Summit, go here: 2. Southern rains won't fix low rivers. Warm weather may break some records this week, then cooler weather should bring scattered rains. But they're unlikely to significantly change low river levels in the Mississippi value, which we'll continue to track. 3. Markets swing on record estimate: Grain markets had mostly been watching South America crop conditions until the November WASDE report hit, with USDA's expectation of a new US average corn yield record of 174.9 bushels per acre, besting the 2016 number. We'll be watching what catches the trade's attention throughout the week. 4. Dicamba ruling imminent: We reported on Friday that lawyers expect a new EPA ruling on dicamba use. Center for Biological Diversity, National Family Farm Coalition, Pesticide Action Network and the Center for Food Safety filed the lawsuit over dicamba's drift potential in December 2020. Sources tell DTN the goal has been to have new dicamba rules ahead of the 2024 season. 5. Economic reports to watch: On Monday the USDA weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by a release of the federal budget for October at 1 p.m. and USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Tuesday features the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for October at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday sees the U.S. producer price index and retail sales reports for October at 7:30 a.m. At 9:30 a.m. the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out with updated data after last week's absence due to system upgrades. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will have an estimate of members' soybean crush later Wednesday morning, and at 2 p.m., USDA will have new cost of production forecasts for 2023. Thursday starts with USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA will have its Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook. Friday we'll watch U.S. housing starts report for October, due at 7:30 a.m. and USDA's monthly cattle on-feed report for November 1, set for 2 p.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 13, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will continue to keep watch over South American weather forecasts. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. The U.S. Treasury releases the federal budget for October at 1 p.m. Weather A disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico will be bringing areas of showers near the coast on Monday. It will be drier elsewhere, but temperatures are largely above normal. Some breezy winds may occur in parts of the Plains, but nothing overly hazardous is expected.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 10, 2023 |
Cattle Group Commends New Competition Initiative The USDA released a package of rules and orders seeking to increase competition in the livestock industry. That package establishes a Chief Competition Officer at USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. This position will be hired as a career rather than a political appointment. The officer will help elevate and institutionalize competition-related concerns at USDA. “Today’s announcement is another item crossed off a to-do list the administration is following to ensure a fairer, more competitive marketplace for U.S. cattle producers,” says U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper. The package also updates AMS Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications that large volume buyers like federal, state, and local government agencies, schools, restaurants, hotels, and other food service users follow when buying meat products. Currently, meat and meat products do have to be of domestic origin, but the updated standards will specify that to mean only animals that are born, raised, and slaughtered in the U.S. *********************************************************************************** November WASDE Finds Higher Corn and Soybean Production The USDA’s November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates show increased corn and soybean production compared to the previous report. The corn outlook is for larger production, domestic use, exports, and ending stocks. Corn production is up 170 million bushels from last month on a 1.9-bushel increase in yield to 174.9 bushels an acre. Corn ending stocks are up 45 million bushels to 2.2 million. The season-average corn price is down 10 cents to $4.85 a bushel. The soybean outlook shows increased production and ending stocks. Soybean production is forecast at 4.13 billion bushels, a 25 million increase on higher yields. Ending stocks rose to 245 million bushels. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. The wheat outlook calls for larger supplies and decreased domestic use. Ending stocks are projected to rise by 14 million bushels to 684 million. The season-average farm price dropped a dime to $7.20. *********************************************************************************** Commerce Decision on Imports Saves Farmers a Lot of Money The U.S. Commerce Department recently lowered the duties placed on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco. The National Corn Growers Association says this move gives true savings to farmers and access to critical inputs that have been scarce during the last couple of years. Commerce lowered the rates from 19.97 percent to 2.12 percent. “Farmers were already facing rate hikes on inputs, and the duties were making the situation worse,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “This gives us more hope.” Assuming Commerce finalizes those duty rates and imports resume, farmers could see a reduction in added costs of $7 per acre on imported fertilizer from Morocco. NCGA’s analysis says many factors and dynamics contribute to changes in fertilizer markets and prices, but the imposed duty rates undoubtedly had an impact on the prices paid by farmers. “Our advocacy campaign to lower the duty rates wouldn’t have succeeded without our members,” Wolle says. *********************************************************************************** Initiative to Enhance Specialty Crop Industry’s Competitiveness USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced the agency is starting a new effort to support producers in the U.S. Specialty Crops sector and increase its competitiveness. “We all count on America’s specialty crops for reliable access to nutritious, fresh foods,” Torres Small says. “As part of the new effort, USDA has compiled useful information on its programs and services that support the specialty crops industry into a Specialty Crops Resource Directory.” The directory will be a one-stop shop for the sector and contains a comprehensive snapshot of USDA’s resources and services for specialty crop producers and businesses in one convenient location. Also, USDA leadership will directly engage with the specialty crop industry and its producers during the next several months to get feedback on how the Department can better address gaps in services and meet the industry’s needs. A new webpage on the initiative is available at usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USB Invests in Infrastructure to Give Growers an Edge The United Soybean Board invests in many infrastructure projects that will help increase profits for soybean growers and the industry itself, which is undergoing significant changes. Through the soy checkoff, USB pursued feasibility studies leading to the dredging of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, a terminal expansion in Washington, and a reduced freight toll agreement on the St. Lawrence Seaway. “The goal of these investments is to give U.S. soybean growers a competitive edge in the global market,” says Belinda Burrier of the USB Board of Directors. “This helps us be more reliable in moving soybeans from our farm to the global customer.” While the checkoff isn’t allowed to invest directly in these projects, it does enable them by investing in feasibility and engineering studies. “It’s a win-win as we make $12.34 on every dollar invested,” Burrier adds. “I don’t know of too many investments with that kind of return.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Yearly Revenues Down Five Percent, Net Income Up 13 Percent CHS Inc., one of the nation’s largest agribusinesses, reported a net income of $1.9 billion for the fiscal year ending on August 31 compared to $1.7 billion for fiscal year 2022. Key drivers included consolidated revenues of $45.6 billion for fiscal year 2023 compared to $47.8 billion for fiscal year 2022. In the company’s ag segment, robust meal and oil demand contributed to higher earnings in the company’s soybean and canola processing business. “The support of our member cooperatives and farmer-owners, dedication of our employees, exceptional operational performance, and favorable market conditions enabled us to achieve the strongest earnings in our history during fiscal year 2023,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc. As a result of those earnings, CHS intends to return $730 million in cash patronage and equity redemptions to its member cooperatives and farmer-owners in fiscal year 2024, demonstrating its “commitment to share profits” with producers.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 10, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Veterans Day will be observed Friday. U.S. government offices are closed, but markets and banks are open. University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early November will be released at 9 a.m. CFTC data will not be released until Monday afternoon. Traders remain interested in South American weather and will watch for further export business. The deadline for a possible government shutdown is November 17, one week away. Weather Showers continue to develop near a front from Texas to the Mid-Atlantic and points southward. Cooler temperatures continue to move in behind the front for areas farther north.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |
USDA Predicts Record Corn Production OMAHA (DTN) -- USDA increased U.S. 2023-24 corn production by 170 million bushels (mb) to 15.234 billion bushels (bb) -- a surprise that was beyond pre-report estimates. If that holds, that breaks the 2016 production record. USDA also increased soybean production by 25 mb to 4.129 bb. According to DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, Thursday's new-crop U.S. ending stocks estimates were bearish for corn and slightly bearish for soybeans and wheat. Hultman sees the world ending stocks estimates from USDA as bearish for corn and neutral for soybeans and wheat. Stay tuned throughout the morning and refresh this page often as we will be sending a series of updates with the important highlights from today's reports, including commentary from our analysts. CORN USDA raised the 2023-24 crop by bumping up the yield estimate 1.9 bushels per acre (bpa) to 174.9 bpa. That drove up production 170 mb to 15.234 bb as a result. That breaks the production record of the 2016 crop, which came in at 15.148 bb. USDA held pat on harvested acres at 87.1 million acres. Ending stocks for the 2023-24 crop were increased 45 mb to 2.156 bb. On the demand side, USDA increased Feed and Residual use 50 mb to 5.65 bb. Total 2023-24 Food, Seed and Industrial use at 6.740 bb, up 25 mb. Ethanol use was also increased 25 mb to 5.325 bb. Total domestic use is forecast at 12.390 bb up 75 mb. Exports for the new crop also were increased 50 mb to 2.075 bb. The farmgate price for the 2023-24 crop was lowered 10 cents a bushel to $4.85 a bushel. Globally, beginning stocks for the 2023-24 new crop were raised 1.12 million metric tons (mmt) to 299.22 mmt. Production globally was increased 6.32 mmt to 1,220.79 mmt. Global exports were bumped up 3.37 mmt to 199.62 mmt. Global ending stocks for the new crop are forecast at 314.99 mmt, up 2.59 mmt. Ukraine's production was increased 1.5 mmt to 29.5 and Ukraine's exports were increased .5 mmt to 20 mmt. Looking at global 2022-23 crop, Brazil's production was held at 137 mmt and exports were held pat at 57 mmt. Argentina's production was held at 34 mmt and Argentina's exports were held pat at 23 mmt. SOYBEANS USDA raised its national soybean yield forecast 49.9 bpa, up 0.3 bpa from last month's estimate. Harvest acres were left unchanged at 82.8 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast. Total production climbed to 4.13 bb. All estimates are within the range of pre-report estimates. Domestic ending stocks for 2023-24 are now forecast at 245 mb, 25 mb higher than last month. The change reflects increased production forecasts, as USDA made only a minor change to the residual on the demand side of the balance sheet. The national average farm gate price was left unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. Globally, ending stocks for the 2023-24 marketing year were 114.51 million metric tons, down 1.11 mmt from last month. The change is mostly due to smaller beginning stocks. USDA forecasts Brazilian farmers will harvest 163 mmt of soybeans, while Argentine growers will harvest 48 mmt. Old-crop, 2022-23 world ending stocks, dropped to 100.31 mmt from last month's 101.9 mmt. USDA said the changes were due to back-year balance sheet revisions for China and Brazil. "China's beginning stocks are reduced on lower soybean imports for 2021-22 and 2022-23 and higher crush for 2022-23. Conversely, Brazil's beginning stocks are increased on a larger 2022-23 crop of 158 million tons due to higher-than-expected use to date," the report stated. WHEAT USDA pegged U.S. wheat production at 1.812 bb in November, unchanged from October's estimate. USDA estimates ending stocks at 684 mb in November, an increase from October's estimate of 670 mb. U.S. wheat use is estimated at 1.86 bb, unchanged from October. Wheat exports were set at 700 mb, unchanged from October. USDA set the farmgate price of wheat at $7.20, down from $7.30 last month. Wheat world ending stocks were estimated at 258.69 mmt, an increase from 258.13 mmt in October. USDA estimates global wheat production at 781.98 mmt, down from 783.43 mmt in October. USDA estimates wheat production in Argentina at 15.0 mmt, down from the October estimate of 16.5. Brazil's production is estimated at 9.4 mmt. Wheat production in Australia was unchanged from last month's 24.5 mmt. Wheat production in Russia was pegged at 90 mmt and Ukraine production was estimated at 22.5 mmt. Wheat exports from Russia were pegged at 50 mmt and 12 mmt in Ukraine. USDA increased wheat imports 10 mb to 145 mb. LIVESTOCK Thursday's November WASDE report posted reduced overall beef and pork production levels for 2023, while 2024 projection were mixed from the previous month with a strong increase production projected in beef, while moderate to firm pork production losses were seen. This will continue to likely cause concern for beef producers and overall cattle prices in the near future. Fourth-quarter beef production fell 55 million pounds, creating the expectation of annual production levels falling 44 million pounds from the last month estimate. The focus on increased production of 535 million pounds in 2024 was strongly attributed to gains in first quarter projections accounting for 235 million pounds. The confirmation of these numbers is adding additional bearish influence to overall market prices as traders are focusing on larger-than-expected beef production through most of 2024. Beef price levels for the fourth quarter of 2023 were unchanged, which also left overall annual price projections unchanged at $177.30 per cwt. Price levels for 2024 were unchanged when it came to annual overall price projections, but first quarter 2024 prices were reduced by $2 per cwt from the previous month while second quarter prices fell $1 per cwt. Beef Imports for 2023 increased by 36 million pounds from the previous month while total beef supplies fell 8 million pounds. Expected imports in 2024 increased 40 million pounds from last month's estimate, increasing overall 2024 supply issues by 590 million pounds. Pork Production posted moderate to strong production losses from the previous month for both 2023 and 2024. Annual pork production is expected to fall 72 million pounds in 2023 from October's estimate, while annual pork production in 2024 is estimated to be reduced 165 million pounds from previous month's levels. This is expected to create some additional support through the lean hog complex long term, but there remains the need to sustain current values based on short term demand. Hog prices were actually reduced on an annual level in both 2023 and 2024, with fourth quarter prices falling $3 per cwt in the latest report. First quarter 2024 hog prices were also reduced by $3 per cwt, and currently based on current hog numbers in the pipeline and the potential for this to put pressure on short term market levels. Pork imports for 2023 increased 9 million pounds from the previous month estimate but were unchanged for 2024 from October levels. The small adjustments in imports are not expected to be a major focus following the moderate to firm overall reduction in pork production for both 2023 and 2024 from October levels.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |
Bayer Considers Company Breakup Bayer confirmed in an investor call on Wednesday the company is considering splitting business units following poor financial results. “We are redesigning Bayer to focus only on what’s essential for our mission – and getting rid of everything else,” according to Bayer CEO Bill Anderson. Anderson, who has been at the company's helm since June, says by the end of next year, Bayer will remove multiple layers of management and coordination. The company ruled out splitting into three divisions, but other options remain. Anderson adds, "In terms of structural options, beyond maintaining three divisions, a separation of either Consumer Health or Crop Science remains under evaluation." Sales in the agricultural business were level year on year at 4.3 billion euros. Higher volumes in all regions were mostly offset by lower prices for glyphosate-based. Corn Seed and Traits sales rose by 21.2, while Fungicides were up 16.2 percent. The Soybean Seed and Traits business likewise posted double-digit percentage growth of 15.6 percent. By contrast, sales at Herbicides were down by 17.3 percent. *********************************************************************************** USTR Tai Traveling to Indiana U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai will Travel to Indianapolis, Indiana as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in Rural America tour. Tai will visit Indiana this Friday to highlight how the administration's economic policies have lowered trade barriers abroad for American agricultural products and increased access for farmers and producers in global markets. Ambassador Tai will tour Starkey Farms, a seventh-generation family farm committed to local and regional farming conservation during her trip. Starkey Farms features more than 2,500 acres near Brownsburg, Indiana. Starkey Farms Partnership is also a retail partner for AgroLiquid. The Investing in Rural America tour kicked off last when President Joe Biden and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack visited Dutch Creek Farms in Northfield, Minnesota. During the visit, President Biden announced more than $5 billion in investments from his Investing in America agenda to advance rural prosperity, economic development, competition, and sustainability. *********************************************************************************** TFI Supports Amendment to Block Proposed Rule on Air Quality Standards The Fertilizer Institute Wednesday reiterated its opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rule to tighten national ambient air quality standards for fine particulate matter. The organization also voiced support for legislation to prohibit the EPA altering the standard at this time. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “Only two years ago the EPA confirmed that the current standard is protective of public health and the environment,” adding, “They have not provided any reasoning as to what has changed in the past two years aside from the fact that these emissions continue to decline.” According to the government’s own data, fine particulate matter emissions have declined by over 40 percent over the past twenty years, and they continue to go down. Additionally, the current rule balances environmental protection with robust commercial and industrial activity. TFI joined more than 70 other industry groups in a letter articulating the economic impact the rule they say would have, as well as the faulty reasoning behind the change. *********************************************************************************** Court Confirms Permanent Injunction on California’s Prop 65 The U.S. Ninth Circuit Appeals Court recently affirmed a district court permanent injunction prohibiting California's Proposition 65 warning requirement related to glyphosate. Proposition 65 is a right‑to-know law that is intended to enable Californians to make informed choices about exposures to chemicals that cause cancer or reproductive effects. The proposition did not ban the use of glyphosate in the state. California attempted to apply Proposition 65 to glyphosate in 2017 following the 2015 ruling by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that glyphosate is an animal carcinogen and a probable human carcinogen. The National Association of Wheat Growers welcomed the court's response of a permanent injunction. NAWG President Brent Cheyne says, “California’s Proposition 65 requirement threatened the use of glyphosate by requiring false and misleading labels on products that may contain glyphosate.” NAWG was joined by 11 other agriculture organizations in the case, including CropLife America and the National Corn Growers Association. *********************************************************************************** Study Finds Perception Gaps Between Farmers and Consumers Nutrien this week released Bridging the Agricultural Perception Divide, a research study on the perception gaps between farmers and consumers in North America on issues such as sustainability, technology, and land usage. The report also indicates there is some common ground and opportunities for bridge-building. The findings revealed that the largest perception gaps between farmers and consumers are related to environmental stewardship and industry advancement. For example, farmers were significantly more likely to agree with statements related to the responsible use of crop inputs, chemical use, environmental progress, farming careers, and soil quality. However, topics related to Societal Support for Farmers reveal much closer agreement. The study also finds that younger consumers have the lowest interest and trust in agriculture. When farmers were asked about the top issues affecting the agriculture industry today, their responses included the rising cost of growing food, followed by a desire for consumers to have more knowledge about the industry, and concerns around misinformation about where food comes from. *********************************************************************************** New York Announces Flexibilities Amid Milk Carton Shortage In a memo to food service managers at public schools, the state of New York announced flexibilities amid a milk carton shortage recently. Due to the unexpected nationwide shortage of paper milk cartons, many School Food Authorities are not able to obtain milk in half pints for their school meals programs. Although schools are expected to meet the fluid milk requirements to the greatest extent possible, supply chain disruptions, including disruptions that limit milk variety or affect serving size, are considered a temporary emergency condition. The New York State Education Department announced schools are allowed to pour milk from larger containers into individual cups, offer one type of milk instead of a variety, offer an alternate form of fluid milk such as low-fat or fat-free lactose-free, or as a last resort, not offer fluid milk altogether. However, juice cannot be offered as a replacement, and schools must still adhere to National School Lunch Program guidelines.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 9, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. South American weather remains a topic of concern for traders. Weather A front has pushed south into Texas and east across the Midwest. A disturbance is moving into the southern end of the front, where it is starting to produce rain over Texas that should overspread much of the Southern Plains and Delta throughout the day, easing drought conditions. Cooler air behind the front is actually seasonable for this time of the year, though it is a sharp drop from recent days.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 8, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Rises in Latest Ag Economy Barometer The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose four points in October to 110. The modest improvement in farmer sentiment resulted from farmers' improved perspective on current conditions on their farms as well as their expectations for the future. The Index of Current Conditions rose three points to 101, while the Index of Future Expectations rose five points to 114. Farmers in this month's survey were a bit less concerned about the risk of lower prices for crops and livestock and felt somewhat better about their farms' financial situation than a month earlier, although that did not translate into a more favorable investment outlook among survey respondents. Farmers remain cautiously optimistic about farmland values, particularly when asked to look ahead five years. Nearly one in four farmers responding to the survey reported making changes in their farm operations in response to long-term weather pattern changes. Changes implemented by farmers were wide-ranging, and some reported making multiple changes in response to shifting weather patterns. *********************************************************************************** Four States Join Suit Against Agri Stats Four states this week joined the Department of Justice’s civil antitrust lawsuit against Agri Stats. The suit alleges that Agri Stats organized and managed anticompetitive information exchanges among broiler chicken, pork and turkey processors. The Attorneys General of Minnesota, California, North Carolina and Tennessee joined the effort Monday. The Justice Department filed the lawsuit in September of this year, alleging Agri Stats violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The complaint alleges that Agri Stats' scheme continues to this day in the chicken processing industry, among others. While Agri Stats paused its turkey and pork reporting after facing several private antitrust lawsuits, Agri Stats has expressed an intent to resume such reports following the lawsuits. A statement at the time of filing by Agri Stats says, "The lawsuit threatens serious harm to American consumers of chicken, pork, and turkey because protein producers depend upon Agri Stats' reports to help them identify opportunities to reduce production costs to keep prices low." *********************************************************************************** Shifting Consumer Demand for Dairy Foods Fuels Butterfat Boom The long-term demand trends for dairy products indicate butter, cheese and other full-fat dairy foods will continue to grow in sales and volume for the foreseeable future. U.S. consumers have shifted away from margarine and reduced-fat dairy foods over the last decade as nutritional science surrounding saturated fats has evolved. As a result, butterfat levels in the national milk supply have risen sharply in response to changing demand patterns and dairy market dynamics. According to a new report from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, the butterfat boom will continue as the entire dairy supply chain is capturing additional value from milk with higher fat and protein levels. CoBank's Corey Geiger says, "Despite the significant growth in domestic butterfat production over the last decade, there is still tremendous upside potential, largely because the U.S. remains a milk-fat-deficit nation." Geiger says the overall market picture for butterfat is quite clear, with tremendous growth potential both domestically and ultimately via the export market. *********************************************************************************** Program to Support Native American Farmers with Climate-Smart Grazing Farm Journal Foundation and the Intertribal Agriculture Council are launching a new program to support climate-smart grazing practices among Native American cattle farmers and ranchers. The program, which will work in partnership with Ecosystem Services Market Consortium and the Yield Lab Institute, will offer a combination of direct incentive payments, technical assistance, and education to producers who adopt certain conservation practices on their grazing lands. It will also better enable Native American cattle producers to participate in carbon and branded commodity markets and create pathways to join USDA conservation programs. Enrollment is now open for this three-year project, which will provide approximately $1 million in direct funding to producers to enable them to implement one or more designated climate-smart conservation practices. The program will work with Native American producers in three states – Florida, Montana, and Oklahoma – whose primary source of business income comes from beef cattle farming. Both small-scale and large-scale producers are encouraged to apply. Learn more at farmjournalfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Army Corps to Reduce Missouri River to Winter Flows Gavins Point Dam releases will be reduced in late November as flow support to navigation ends. Releases are currently 32,000 cubic feet per second. John Remus of the Amry Corps of Engineers says, "We will continue to make releases from Gavins Point Dam to provide flow support at an intermediate service level, 1,500 cubic feet per second less than full service, through the end of the navigation flow support season." Winter releases from Gavins Point Dam for the 2023-2024 winter will be slightly higher than last winter, which were at the minimum rate. However, Remus adds, "Intake operators in the lower river should be taking measures to assure they can maintain access to the water." October runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 1.5 million-acre-feet, 124 percent of normal. Based on the most recent seasonal drought outlook, drought conditions are expected to persist through the end of January in the upper Basin, with a potential for improvement in the lower Basin. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Speak at CSU Spur Water in the West Symposium Thursday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will be in Denver Thursday to give opening remarks at the 6th Annual CSU Spur Water in the West Symposium. The event, focused on “Next Gen Water,” includes keynotes and panel discussions on topics ranging from leadership and water system management to workforce and the future of Colorado’s outdoor industry. The symposium, the first to occur on the CSU Spur campus in north Denver, will take place in the Hydro building, which opened this past January. Vilsack will discuss the USDA’s work to build rural prosperity by supporting producer income, bolstering local and regional food supply chains, and creating jobs and economic opportunities in rural areas. In addition, he will talk about work to foster the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture, including through the USDA’s NextGen program, which includes geology and hydrology among more than 36 disciplines supported. Vilsack served as a strategic advisor for Colorado State University Spur and the Colorado State University System’s food and water initiatives from 2017-2021.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 8, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will continue to watch South American weather forecasts and after Tuesday, will keep an eye on outside markets and energy prices, in particular. Due to a systems upgrade, the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories and natural gas will not take place this week but will be back with updated data next week. Weather A system moving across the northern tier of the country is producing areas of isolated showers Wednesday. The system is pushing a cold front deeper into the Plains and Upper Midwest, where temperatures will fall closer to normal for this time of year. South of the front continues to be quite warm.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 7, 2023 |
Scott Calls for One-Year Farm Bill Extension David Scott (D-GA), the ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee, called on colleagues to extend the 2018 Farm Bill by one year. He made the call to offer certainty and support to farmers, ranchers, and foresters as “extremism” in the House Republican conference continues hobbling legislative efforts. “While we continue the bipartisan effort on the House Ag Committee to craft a new farm bill, the extremism and cynicism that’s taken hold of the House Republican Conference makes reauthorizing the farm bill by the end of this year unlikely,” Scott says. “Therefore, I’m calling on colleagues to support a one-year extension.” Scott calls it the responsible thing to do. It would allow U.S. farmers, ranchers, and foresters to operate with an element of certainty while they continue working on a new five-year farm bill. “Ag Committee Democrats remain committed to passing a bipartisan farm bill as quickly as possible,” Scott adds. *********************************************************************************** New National FFA Officer Team in Place The 2023-2024 National FFA Officer team was elected during the final session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. The new officer team was picked from 35 candidates and will lead the organization during the next year. Amara Jackson of Michigan is the new national president. Grant Norfleet of Missouri is the National Secretary. The new regional vice presidents come from Florida, Iowa, Ohio, and New Mexico. Each year during the national convention, six student members are elected by delegates to represent the organization as national officers. Through their year of service, the officers will interact with business and industry leaders, thousands of FFA members and teachers, corporate sponsors, government officials, education officials, the general public, and others. The team will also lead personal growth and leadership training conferences for FFA members throughout the country and set policies that help guide the future of the FFA and its members. *********************************************************************************** USDA Relief Program Hurts Larger Farmers USDA announced the Emergency Relief Program for 2022, ten months after the funding was initially signed into law. But the National Sorghum Producers say there are two major flaws in the program that make it a disaster in itself. First, USDA established a “progressive” payment factor to fit total payments within a budget that will severely harm full-time farm families. NSP says the “progressive” requirement will actually cut deepest on those who faced the largest losses. Second, although the law requires producer-paid premiums to be netted out for all producers, USDA’s new ERP only nets out such premiums for “underserved” farmers. The organization says the progressive aspect of the payments is no more than a “backdoor pay limit” that violates both Congressional intent and the letter of the law. They point out that structuring payments this way will cause immense harm to full-time farm families now and in the future. *********************************************************************************** FSA County Committee Elections Start This Week The USDA will begin mailing ballots this week for the Farm Service Agency county and urban county committee elections. Ballots will go to all eligible agricultural producers and private landowners across the country. Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas for those committee members who make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. Producers and landowners must return their ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by December 4 to be counted. “In order for county committees to be effective, they must truly represent all who are producing,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. Each committee has from three to 11 elected members who serve three-year terms, and at least one seat representing a Local Administrative Area is up for election each year. *********************************************************************************** Educators to Receive Immersive AFBF Convention Experience The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture and Nationwide have teamed up to bring outstanding educators to the American Farm Bureau’s annual convention on January 19-22, 2024. Selected educators will receive an exclusive and immersive experience. They’ll receive free registration for the 2024 AFBF Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as financial reimbursement for travel, lodging, and meals while attending the event. The experience will connect teachers with farmers and ranchers from across the country to hear directly about modern farming. Highlights will include participation in local ag tours, networking with farmers, ranchers, and other professionals involved in ag education, and access to many other events. “We’re proud to support teachers from all across the country in several ways,” says Daniel Meloy, executive director of the AFBF Foundation. “We hope they’ll leave the 2024 convention with new ideas and information about agriculture to take back to their classrooms.” *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Annual Convention to Discuss Important Topics The 2024 American Sheep Industry Association’s Annual Convention will offer producers a closer look at two pieces of legislation that will greatly affect the industry. The opening session will feature officials from congressional agriculture committees discussing the new farm bill. Whether it’s passed by then or still getting hashed out, there will be plenty to talk about for America’s sheep producers. The speaker on January 13 from Superior Farms will talk about a petition in the city of Denver to prohibit the processing of livestock within city limits. If it passes, the petition will force the closure of Superior Farms’ lamb processing plant just minutes from the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel where the ASI convention takes place. “If they can pass such legislation in Denver, where they have as rich a livestock history as any in the American West, they can pass it anywhere in America,” says ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 7, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for September is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST and will allow USDA to have more specific export data later Tuesday morning. DTN will have a preview of the November WASDE report. USDA's long-term price projections will be out at 2 p.m., the same time as a report on U.S. consumer credit. Meanwhile, traders will keep an eye on South American weather conditions. Weather A system is moving out of the Pacific Northwest and through the Northern Plains early Tuesday, which will spread a mix of showers through the region and into the Upper Midwest Tuesday night. Some snow may accumulate in northern North Dakota and Minnesota as well as the southwestern Canadian Prairies. Temperatures for most of the U.S. will be quite warm for early November.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |
Commerce Department Lowers Duties on Fertilizers The U.S. Commerce Department announced it is lowering duties placed on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco from 19.97 percent to 2.12 percent. The decision came after the agency conducted an administrative review of the duties, which is performed annually by retroactively examining the price of shipments and other factors. The National Corn Growers Association, a long-time vocal opponent of the duties, called it a big win for corn growers. “This victory was made possible by corn growers who spoke out against these duties as they faced skyrocketing fertilizer prices and product shortages at the behest of The Mosaic Company,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. The issue stems from a decision by Commerce that favored a petition by Mosaic to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. Mosaic had claimed that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market and selling their products at extremely low prices. *********************************************************************************** Court Orders EPA to Follow the Science The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals granted a major victory to farmers when it ruled the Environmental Protection Agency must base its decisions on sound science and the law. The court was clear when it said the EPA failed to follow the law when it revoked chlorpyrifos tolerances, which effectively banned the pesticide. The American Farm Bureau Federation was one of several agriculture organizations that sued the EPA, asserting the agency ignored scientific evidence that proved the pesticide’s safety. “AFBF appreciates the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals for recognizing that the Environmental Protection Agency failed to follow the law when it revoked the use of chlorpyrifos,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are committed to growing safe and nutritious food, and they use science to guide decisions on how to manage pests and insects. Today’s decision tells the agency that it, too, must use sound science when drafting rules.” *********************************************************************************** Foreign Investment in U.S. Ag Land Foreign investment in U.S. agricultural land is a big topic. USDA’s latest research, based on 2021 data, shows over 40 million acres of American agricultural land are owned by foreign investors and companies. This corresponds to 3.1 percent of all privately-held agricultural land and 1.8 percent of all land in the U.S. Canadian investors own the largest portion of foreign-held agricultural land with 31 percent, or 12.8 million acres of the total, and 0.97 percent of all U.S. agricultural land. Many of the current concerns center around China. According to the latest data, China is ranked 18th in ownership of U.S. agricultural land with 383,000 acres. That’s less than one percent of total foreign-owned U.S. ag land and only three-hundredths of one percent of all ag land in the U.S. It reflects a total area of about one-third the size of Rhode Island or that of an average Ohio county. *********************************************************************************** China Importing a Lot of Soybeans in 2023 A University of Illinois FarmDoc report says China’s soybean imports are likely to stay high through the fourth quarter of this year, taking 2023 purchases to an all-time record. However, lackluster demand from hog farms is seen as reducing soybean purchases in early 2024. Traders and industry analysts say record Brazilian soybean supplies are expected to dominate China’s imports in the last three months of this year, citing better oil and meal quality. That will reduce demand for U.S. cargoes in the world’s biggest market for the oilseed. The larger share of Brazilian soybeans in China’s import basket is likely to add pressure on benchmark Chicago futures, which slumped almost 15 percent this year, snapping a four-year rally. The report says, “Typically, freshly harvested U.S. soybeans dominate the global export market after September as Brazil’s export season winds down.” But this year, China’s purchases from the U.S. are well below normal. *********************************************************************************** Second Annual FFA Future Leaders Fundraising Drive Underway Tractor Supply Company kicked off the second annual FFA Future Leaders Scholarship fundraising drive. The Tractor Supply Foundation established the fund last year with a $5 million commitment over five years, making it the largest agriculture scholarship of its kind. In 2022, the inaugural fundraising drive raised more than $1 million. The funds generated scholarships for 146 FFA students in 38 states, ranging from welding and electrical engineering to agricultural business, animal science, and others. Now through November 12, customers can make a donation at checkout, either in TSC stores or online at TractorSupply.Com. The goal is to raise another $1 million. The funds will generate $5,000 scholarships for students attending trade schools and two-year colleges to pursue a skilled trade or agriculture-related field. There will also be $10,000 scholarships for students pursuing agriculture-related four-year majors. After a successful 2022, the foundation can’t wait to see what happens this year. *********************************************************************************** Funds to Help Improve Agriculture Exports Senator Tammy Baldwin and colleagues delivered $9.3 million in Transportation Department funds to expand Port Milwaukee’s newly opened Agriculture Maritime Export Facility. The funding will support Phase 2 of the AMEF project, including the construction of two grain storage silos, purchasing of additional grain handling equipment, and the purchase of new equipment to move products between storage and vessels. “Port Milwaukee plays a critical role in connecting farmers and businesses to markets across the world,” Baldwin says. “This investment will strengthen maritime commerce, create jobs, and grow our economy.” Jackie Carter, director of Port Milwaukee, says she’s grateful for the continued support they get and appreciates the grant award for the Agriculture Maritime Export Facility. “The project will increase capacity and allow for the simultaneous handling of multiple agricultural commodities,” Carter says. “It will provide access for producers and growers in Wisconsin and the surrounding states to efficiently move products to international markets.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - November WASDE, Flipping Temperatures Lead the Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Nov. 5. Note: All times listed below are in Central Standard Time (CST) unless otherwise mentioned. CST returned on Nov. 5. 1. WASDE Thursday: USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m. Our preview of the report will hit Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the release of analyst estimates. On Thursday we will have WASDE numbers immediately after the reports are released, followed by updates with commentary and market reactions throughout the morning. 2. South America crop watch: Southern Brazil could get a brief respite from heavy and flooding rains. The forecast is still for wet weather throughout the month. Argentina has fared better with 23% of the corn crop planted. The Buenos Aires Exchange notes that 87% of the planted area is now good or normal, up from the previous week. 3. Fertilizer imports spark interest: With retail fertilizer prices steady to slightly higher according to DTN's weekly fertilizer reports, there will be growing interest in last week's announcement that U.S. Department of Commerce agreed to lower import duties on Moroccan phosphate fertilizer from 19.97% to 2.12%. 4. Weather warms for some: The Midwest starts the week with above-normal temperatures. But the weather pattern will stay active with additional showers possible, followed by cooler air. In the Northern Plains, the pattern will stay fairly active with occasional periods of showers, including some snow. The colder and wetter conditions will continue to make the remaining fieldwork difficult to accomplish. The Delta will see several systems more through during the week, bringing showers and more falling temperatures. 5. Economic reports to watch: Back from the weekend, you should be on standard time now or you may find yourself early for appointments. Monday starts with USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections set for 10 a.m., followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Tuesday sees U.S. trade deficit for September at 7:30 a.m.; U.S. consumer credit report is at 2 p.m., and USDA long-term price projections at also 2 p.m. On Wednesday, because of a systems upgrade, the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories and natural gas will not take place that day -- or this week -- but will be back with updated data next week. Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m. On Friday, Veterans Day is observed. U.S. government offices are closed, but markets and banks are open. CFTC data will not be released until Monday afternoon. University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early November will be released at 9 a.m. The deadline for a possible government shutdown is Nov. 17, one week away.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 6, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will have set their clocks back an hour, checked the latest weather forecasts, especially from South America, and gotten caught up on world events. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CST, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A pair of systems, one in the Great Lakes, and another in the Pacific Northwest, will be moving eastward on Monday, spreading showers through northern areas of the country. Precipitation is mostly rain, but some early morning light snow is falling in parts of North Dakota where it has been colder. Temperatures elsewhere are warm for early November.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 3, 2023 |
Ag Secretary Speaks at FFA National Convention Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke to students, agricultural educators, and guests at the opening session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo during Thursday’s opening session. He also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the organization formalizing a partnership to prepare more students for careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields. He shared USDA’s vision to secure the future of American agriculture and opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that farms of all sizes have the opportunity to succeed. “At National FFA, we’re preparing our students to be tomorrow’s leaders in agriculture,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. “We appreciate the Secretary’s dedication to agricultural education and FFA, which is why we were honored to present him with an Honorary American FFA Degree.” Vilsack said today’s youth are the ones who will create tomorrow’s food systems. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Support Fertilizer Industry Transparency The Iowa Corn Growers Association developed language they’d like added to the upcoming farm bill that would review competition and transparency in the fertilizer industry. The language would mandate a USDA assessment of the pricing practices used by fertilizer companies and the effects of the price increase on both farmers and consumers. The association points out that input costs for farmers have gone up drastically and are crucial topics at the grassroots level. This assessment would provide transparency in the fertilizer market and help farmers understand why these price increases keep occurring. Jolene Riessen, president of the ICGA, says, “We’re hopeful with the support of our Iowa delegation that this language will make it into the next farm bill, as it would provide USDA with the framework to start a comprehensive study and review of the fertilizer industry.” The study would paint a clearer picture of what’s happening in the industry. *********************************************************************************** American Angus Association Offering Internship Opportunities The American Angus Association is excited to offer internship opportunities for students to try a trial-run of potential career choices. The association has five internship positions available for the summer of 2024. It’s a ten-week program that’s designed to provide an immersive, hands-on experience that helps students to grow professionally as they “dip their toes” into the workforce. The five internships are being offered in marketing, publications, communications, events and junior activities, and in Angus Genetics, Inc. “What makes an internship at Angus so unique is that the Angus family believes in your ability to achieve a level of high success from day one,” says Brooklyn Botterman, 2023 events and junior activities intern. ‘The professional and personal growth that is acquired during your time with Angus is invaluable.” Students who want to apply should submit their resume, cover letter, and references by December 1. For more information, go to angus.org/careers. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Pork Campaign Involves Iowa State Football Players The Iowa Pork Producers Association has a marketing initiative involving aptly-named Iowa State football players. The campaign is called “Purchase Moore Hamman Bacon.” The Cyclone players are Myles Purchase, Tyler Moore, Tommy Hamman, and Caleb Bacon. The Iowa Pork Producers original social media post featured a photo of the players with their backs to the camera showing the last names on their jerseys, and several pounds of bacon and ham were pictured on a table behind them. The post has been viewed on X (formerly Twitter) more than 2.6 million times. “We’re overjoyed at the success of the ’Purchase Moore Hamman Bacon’ campaign,” says Iowa Pork Producers President Trish Cook. “We had hoped it would go viral, and it did in a big way.” The association will donate $4,000 worth of pork to pantries in each player’s hometown. The future of the promotion includes the addition of linebacker Alex Cook *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Study Barriers to Mental Health Senators Michael Bennet and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming introduced legislation requiring the Government Accountability Office to study the barriers between farmers and ranchers and mental health care. “Our farmers and ranchers face uncertainty from forces beyond their control, and Congress needs to do more to help them access the mental and behavioral health care they need,” Bennet says. Volatile commodity prices, increased input costs, more frequent wildfires, severe drought, and other extreme weather events significantly affect farmers’ and ranchers’ mental health. Despite the demonstrated need for services, many rural communities face barriers to access those services. The GAO would be required to study the availability and accessibility of substance abuse treatment and mental health care providers trained to serve the needs of farmers, ranchers, agricultural workers, and their families. The study would also assess the barriers farmers and ranchers face to accessing care and successful programs at the state and local levels. *********************************************************************************** China Set to Import Record Amount of Wheat A University of Illinois Farmdoc report says China is set to import “record volumes” of wheat this year. Industry sources say rain damage to China’s wheat crop and subsequent worries over dry weather in exporting nations are driving Beijing’s appetite to buy while prices are low. Traders also say China’s frantic wheat buying is likely to support global prices, which have dropped more than a quarter through this year due to abundant supplies from Russia, the world’s top exporter. Overall, China’s 2023 imports are likely to reach 12 million tons, topping the previous year’s record of 9.96 million tons, with the avid buying expected to continue into 2024. Industry traders also say Beijing’s recent large purchases of Australian wheat could force rival importers such as Indonesia and Japan to seek alternatives from North America and the Black Sea region. China was the fifth-largest importer of U.S. wheat in Marketing Year 2022-2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 3, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Labor Department releases nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for October. Traders will keep close watch on weather and will soon wonder about the possibility of a government shutdown on November 17. Weather Though widespread frosts and freezes were recorded again this morning across the Southeast, temperatures are rising. A weak disturbance moving across the north may bring some occasional light showers from Montana to Michigan throughout the day, but most areas will stay dry.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 2, 2023 |
US to Participate in Next Indo-Pacific Framework Negotiating Round A delegation of trade officials from the U.S. Trade Representative's office will participate in the seventh in-person negotiating round of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. The negotiations are planned for November 5-12, 2023, in San Francisco, California. In San Francisco, the IPEF partners will continue to make progress on negotiations towards high-standard outcomes under the pillars of trade, clean economy and fair economy. The U.S. interagency delegation will be co-led by Sarah Ellerman, IPEF Pillar Assistant United States Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and Sharon H. Yuan, U.S. Department of Commerce Counselor. The framework will offer tangible benefits that fuel economic activity and investment, promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, and benefit workers and consumers across the region, according to USTR. The first negotiating round was held in Brisbane, Australia, in December of last year, with other rounds taking place earlier this year. *********************************************************************************** Federal Urban Agriculture Committee to Meet this Month Members of the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Advisory Committee will meet this month. This is the committee's seventh meeting and is scheduled for November 29, 2023. The 2018 Farm Bill directed USDA to create the committee to advise the Agriculture Secretary on developing policies and outreach relating to urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural production practices, as well as identify any barriers to urban agriculture. The committee is one of several ways that USDA is extending support and building frameworks to support urban agriculture, including issues of equity, climate resilience and nutrition access. Twelve members are appointed to the committee for one to three-year terms by the Secretary of Agriculture. The members represent a diverse set of expertise, including urban production, innovative production, higher education, non-profit, finance, business and economic development, supply chain, and other areas related to urban, indoor, and other emerging agriculture production practices. The public is invited to attend virtually by registering on the USDA website. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for USDA’s 100th Agricultural Outlook Forum The Department of Agriculture this week opened registration for the 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. Titled “Cultivating the Future,” the event will be held in person at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, February 15-16, 2024. All Forum sessions will also be livestreamed on a virtual platform. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “As we reflect on a century of agricultural progress, we’re not just celebrating our achievements, we're also preparing for an even better future.” USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum began in 1923 as a way to disseminate USDA data and analyses to farmers, so they had the tools to understand markets and make informed production decisions. Over time, the event has evolved into a unique platform where key stakeholders from the agricultural sector in the United States and around the world come together every year to discuss current and emerging topics and trends in the sector. Visit the Agricultural Outlook Forum website to register. *********************************************************************************** Apply Today to Become Beef Spokesperson The Beef Checkoff-funded Trailblazers program is seeking applications for its next class of beef advocates. Trailblazers, developed by the National Cattlemen's Beef, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths. NCBA's Chandler Mulvaney says, "If you are an advocate and seeking a chance to be empowered on your advocacy journey, apply today, and help safeguard the work of cattle farmers and ranchers." The Trailblazers program is looking for new spokespeople to participate in a year-long hands-on program designed to train, equip, and empower beef advocates. Selected candidates receive training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews and understand how to build confidence in beef-related practices when talking to consumers. Applications will be accepted through December 8, and selected participants will be notified mid-January, upon completing the review process. Learn more and apply at NCBA.org. *********************************************************************************** CropLife America Announces CEO Search The CropLife America Board of Directors is opening the search for the organization's next president and Chief Executive Officer. CropLife America is the national trade association representing the manufacturers, formulators, and distributors of plant science solutions for agriculture and pest management in the United States. The president and CEO will be important in maintaining and enhancing existing member relationships. The successful candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in a regulated industry, and advocacy with a broad array of stakeholders, including elected officials and regulators at both the federal and state level. The organization's members are deeply committed to their businesses, and the CEO must demonstrate a shared belief in and commitment to furthering the interests of the industry. The Board retained Kincannon & Reed to help guide the nationwide search process. CropLife America parted ways with former CEO Chris Novak in September. A statement from CropLife America at the time said, "Thee entire CLA Board of Directors thank Chris for his service to the organization over the past five years.” *********************************************************************************** 2023 Ozone Hole Ranks 16th Largest on Record The 2023 Antarctic ozone hole reached its maximum size at ten million square miles on September 21, which ranks as the 16th largest since 1979, according to annual satellite and balloon-based measurements made by NOAA and NASA. During the peak of the ozone depletion season from September 7 to October 13, the hole this year averaged 8.9 million square miles, approximately the size of North America. Paul Newman of NASA says, "It's a very modest ozone hole," adding, "Declining levels of human-produced chlorine compounds, along with help from active Antarctic stratospheric weather slightly improved ozone levels this year." The ozone layer acts like Earth's natural sunscreen, as this portion of the stratosphere shields our planet from the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. Every September, the ozone layer thins to form an “ozone hole” above the Antarctic continent. NOAA and NASA researchers monitor the ozone layer over the pole and globally using instruments aboard NASA's Aura, NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP and NOAA-20 satellites.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 2, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, a report on third-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather Cold air that has been spreading through the country has reached its peak, with moderating temperatures in the Plains on Thursday that will continue eastward through the weekend. A system has moved into the Pacific Northwest and will bring showers there and to northern areas going into the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 1, 2023 |
House Republican Members Urge Swift Farm Bill Passage Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives are urging the new speaker to pass a farm bill. In a letter last week to Speaker Mike Johnson, a group of 61 members told the speaker, “We urge you and the Conference at-large to be united in ensuring swift passage of a strong Farm Bill.” The letter notes that more than 92 percent of the nation’s planted acres are represented by Republican Members. Moreover, in 2022, the food and agriculture sectors contributed $7.4 trillion in economic activity, creating 43 million jobs, $2.3 trillion in wages, $718 billion in tax revenue, and $183 billion in exports, stemming from direct, indirect, and induced output. The lawmakers added, "The Farm Bill is a critical agenda item that must be addressed this Congress." Before he was elected speaker last week, Johnson revealed a priority list that included a December vote on the farm bill, pledging to "Begin negotiations as soon as possible.” *********************************************************************************** Report Reveals Global Agriculture Subsidies Total support to agriculture reached record levels of $851 billion per year during 2020-22 for the 54 countries covered by a new Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Agricultural Policy Monitoring and Evaluation 2023 report shows the historically high level of support is nearly a 2.5-fold increase compared to two decades ago, though still behind the overall growth of production. Support remains highly concentrated in a few large producing economies, with China, India, the United States and the European Union representing 36 percent, 15 percent, 14 percent and 13 percent of total support provided, respectively. Individual producers received $630 billion per year in positive support over the 2020-22 period. The report tracks global government support provided to the agricultural sector, including subsidies, tariffs and other “market-distorting forms of support.” OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann says, “Such measures alter trade, investment and the location of production, undermining both the value of market access and the benefits of competitive markets and open trade.” *********************************************************************************** New Grants to Strengthen Local and Regional Food Systems USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Tuesday awarded more than $32 million for 98 grant projects to expand and strengthen local and regional food systems. The funding will be distributed through the Local Agriculture Market Program's Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs and the Regional Food System Partnerships grant program. USDA Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt says, "These grant programs support local and regional food producers by broadening marketing opportunities, such as farmers markets, local food hubs, and farm-to-institution programs." This year, the Farmers Market Promotion Program is funding 55 projects that support producer-to-consumer markets, such as farmers markets, roadside stands, agritourism activities, community-supported agriculture programs, and online sales. Through the Local Agriculture Market Program's Farmers Market, 33 projects have been funded to support local and regional food businesses that engage as intermediaries in indirect producer-to-consumer marketing. Through the Regional Food System Partnerships grant program, funds will support ten partnerships across eight states and the District of Columbia. *********************************************************************************** Tentative Agreement Allows for St Lawrence Seaway Reopening Unifor has reached a tentative agreement with St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, ending a weeklong strike that halted shipping along the route. An agreement was announced at the start of this week following mediated negotiations on behalf of Ontario and Quebec members. St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation CEO Terence Bowles says, “We have in hand an agreement that’s fair for workers and secures a strong and stable future for the Seaway.” The tentative agreement covers roughly 360 Unifor members in Ontario and Quebec, who work in the supervisory and engineering group and the maintenance, operations, and clerical group. Specifics of the agreement were not released, but workers did return to work Monday morning. The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway is a deep draft waterway extending 2,300 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the head of the Great Lakes at Duluth, Minnesota. The Seaway includes 15 locks – 13 in Canada and two in the United States. *********************************************************************************** USDA Examines ReConnect Program Populations Households in nonmetro areas are more than four times as likely to lack broadband internet access as households in metro areas. To help bring broadband to rural areas, USDA’s ReConnect program provides grants and loans to internet providers to help finance the costs of providing high-speed internet through broadband services. Funding areas served by projects must be rural and have 90 percent or more of households without access to broadband at minimum upload and download speeds. USDA Economic Research Service researchers examined ReConnect projects proposed in fiscal years 2019 and 2020, finding that the populations of areas eligible and areas of approved projects tended to have less formal educational attainment, more poverty, and more people over the age of 65. About 53 percent of the population in ReConnect-eligible areas had high school or less educational attainment, compared with 40 percent in ineligible areas. Likewise, the poverty rate was higher in eligible areas, as was the portion of the population over age 65. *********************************************************************************** Shell Eggs Broken Down 1% from Last Year USDA's latest monthly Egg Products report shows shell eggs broken is down one percent from last year. Released this week by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the report tracks eggs cracked by processors for egg products, including liquid whole egg, liquid whites, liquid yolk, and dried product. Shell eggs broken totaled 198 million dozen during July 2022, down one percent from July a year ago, and two percent below the 202 million dozen broken during the previous month. During calendar year 2022 through July, shell eggs broken totaled 1.38 billion dozen, up six percent from the comparable period in 2021. To date, cumulative total edible product from eggs broken in 2022 was 1.76 billion pounds, up six percent from 2021. Meanwhile, overall demand for shell eggs is mixed with most interest from marketers looking to build their stocks in anticipation of increased consumer demand into early November and the start of the Thanksgiving demand season for baking.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 1, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world will roll in overnight with the U.S. index due out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories follows at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve announces its decision on interest rates, expected to stay unchanged. At 2 p.m., NASS releases its monthly report on Fats and Oils. Weather Cold air has fully pushed into the country east of the Rockies early Wednesday with widespread frosts and freezes for most areas except those areas adjacent to the coast. Some lake-effect snow lingers in the eastern Great Lakes and Northeast early in the day but will wane later Wednesday. Dry conditions elsewhere will give potential for completing some late fieldwork during the start to the last month of fall.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |
State of the Corn Economy In the third quarter of 2023, the corn sector wrapped up the 2022-2023 marketing year and entered the 2023-204 marketing year. Geopolitical tensions and international dynamics continue to be factors in the market. Looking ahead, a National Corn Growers Association webinar says the war in Israel could have larger implications for corn if it spreads throughout the Middle East. On the macroeconomic side, interest rates continue to rise while the economy remains strong. That makes it a challenge to forecast an economic landing, especially considering geopolitical factors. Despite widespread drought across the Corn Belt during the growing season, the U.S. is positioned to produce one of the three largest corn crops on record. That positions the U.S. to have enough grain needed to fulfill demand. Even with the strong competition in the world market, the outlook for demand from ethanol, feed, and exports is more positive than it was last year. *********************************************************************************** Organic Produce Sales and Volume Up Two Percent For the second quarter in a row, organic fresh produce grew slightly in year-over-year sales and volume in the third quarter of 2023. That’s according to a report issued by the Organic Produce Network. Overall, organic fresh produce dollar sales and volume rose by two percent and 1.9 percent, respectively, for Q3 in 2023 compared to the same time last year. “The growth in organic produce volume slightly outpacing conventional produce reflects the continued consumer interest in healthier and sustainable food choices,” says Tom Barnes, CEO of Category Partners. In the third quarter, 15 of the top 20 organic fresh produce categories posted increases in dollar sales compared to the same period last year. The organic berry category, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, led overall dollar sales with $461 million for the quarter, a 6.9 percent increase. Organic broccoli saw the largest sales jump at 14 percent above last year. *********************************************************************************** USGC Building Markets in Africa East Africa holds significant long-term growth potential for U.S. feed grains. Earlier this month, the U.S. Grains Council sent staff and members to the region as part of an engagement mission to discuss upcoming programming, current partnerships, and opportunities for American feed grains. The Council has been active in East Africa for over a decade, working to promote the development of a commercial poultry and feed industry in the region to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. The USDA estimates by 2032 that Africa and the Middle East will account for 43 percent of the additional growth in world coarse grain imports. The team kicked off the trip by attending the tenth African Grain Trade Summit in Uganda. The conference brought together business leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders from Africa to talk through issues and emerging trends in the grain sector. Other stops included Kenya and Tanzania’s Poultry Show. *********************************************************************************** Trends in Agricultural Land Ownership The landscape of land ownership has evolved over the past 25 years as a generational transfer of ownership takes place. A Farmers National Company report says a strong ag economy has driven the market higher for several years. Most landowners have seen steady increases in value during the past 25 years, but especially within the past three years. FNC says one market dynamic farmers can always count on is change. Politics, world events, and other factors will continue driving change in the agriculture economy and land values over the next 25 years. Generational transfer of land ownership will continue bringing changes to who owns the land. One constant in the market is the fact that they aren’t making more land available. FNC says the U.S. loses an average of 1.8 million acres of farmland every year, which will only add to the limited supply available and more change in the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** Deere Foundation Announces Anti-Hunger Grants The John Deere Foundation announced a series of grants totaling $19 million aimed at eliminating hunger by increasing access to food, helping resource-constrained farmers, and supporting global food systems. The grants go to the World Food Program USA, the One Acre Fund, and the Nature Conservancy. “We firmly believe that the world’s farmers deserve our collective support and advocacy if our goal is to realize the promise of the ‘Green Revolution,’” says Josh Jepsen, senior vice president and chief financial officer at Deere. The World Food Program received $5 million to strengthen the capacity of the United Nations World Food Program, the world’s largest humanitarian organization. One Acre Fund was awarded $7.5 million to accelerate its work to ensure every family farm has the knowledge and means to be successful. The Nature Conservancy received $6.5 million to promote natural climate solutions like forest restoration and conservation in key regions around the world. *********************************************************************************** Corn and Soybean Export Sales Surge USDA says corn sales to overseas buyers surged, and soybean sales hit a marketing-year high in the seven days ending on October 19. Corn export sales totaled 1.35 million metric tons, up 53 percent over the previous week and 22 percent from the prior four-week average. An agency report says Mexico was a big buyer of U.S. corn, purchasing 762,400 metric tons, followed by Colombia and Japan. Exports during the week were 483,700 tons, down six percent week-to-week and the lowest since the marketing year began on September 1. Soybean sales jumped to 1.38 million metric tons during the week, one percent above the previous week and 43 percent over the four-week average. That’s also the largest amount since the marketing year began. China was the largest buyer at 1.17 million tons. Soybean exports hit a marketing-year high at 2.38 million tons. Wheat sales dropped 43 percent from the prior week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |
Biden, Cabinet, Heading to Rural America President Joe Biden will travel to Minnesota to lead his Administration's Investing in Rural America Event Series. Over the course of two weeks, President Biden, Cabinet members, and Senior Administration Officials will barnstorm across the country. The events will promote investments in climate-smart agriculture, bringing new revenue to farms, increased economic development in rural towns and communities and more opportunity throughout the country, according to the White House. During the Event Series, President Biden and leaders across the Administration will travel to rural communities across the country. This includes rural communities leveraging Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to support critical infrastructure such as high-speed internet, safe roads and bridges, modern wastewater systems, clean drinking water, and reliable and affordable electricity. Beyond the Minnesota visit with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Vilsack will also speak at the National FFA convention this week in Indianapolis. Other administration officials will travel to Wisconsin, Michigan, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Washington State, Oregon and Georgia, among other states. *********************************************************************************** September Milk Production Down Slightly USDA’s latest Milk Production report shows production in the 24 major states during September totaled 17.5 billion pounds, down slightly from September 2022. August revised production, at 18.1 billion pounds, was down 0.7 percent from August 2022. The August revision represented a decrease of 73 million pounds or 0.4 percent from last month's preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major States averaged 1,960 pounds for September, three pounds above September 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major States was 8.91 million head, 16,000 head less than September 2022, and 2,000 head less than August 2023. Milk production in the United States during the July - September quarter totaled 56.1 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from the July - September quarter last year. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.38 million head, 41,000 head less than the April - June quarter, and 33,000 head less than the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** $3 Million Available for Producers Impacted by 2022 Natural Disasters The Department of Agriculture will provide more than $3 billion to commodity and specialty crop producers impacted by natural disasters in 2022. Eligible impacted producers can apply for financial assistance through the Emergency Relief Program 2022. The program will help offset the financial impacts of crop yield and value losses from qualifying disasters in 2022. Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux (DOO-sheh-know) says, “2022 was another year of weather-related challenges — for some, the third consecutive year or more in a row.” ERP 2022 covers losses to crops, trees, bushes and vines due to qualifying, calendar year 2022 natural disaster events, including wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze –including a polar vortex, smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought and related conditions. Producers can apply for ERP 2022 starting October 31, (today). The application deadline has not yet been determined and will be announced at a later date. *********************************************************************************** Branstad, Westman to Receive USMEF Awards Terry Branstad, former U.S. ambassador to China and longtime governor of Iowa, has been selected to receive the U.S. Meat Export Federation's Michael J. Mansfield Award. USMEF established this award in recognition of the U.S. Senate majority leader and ambassador to Japan, whose five decades of government service advanced U.S. trade relations throughout the world. Bill Westman will receive the USMEF Distinguished Service Award. This award honors outstanding figures in the red meat industry who exemplify the exceptional, individual dedication responsible for the federation's success. Westman had a 29-year career with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, served as senior vice president of international affairs for the North American Meat Institute and is now president of William Westman and Associates LLC, a boutique consulting firm specializing in agricultural trade policy, export market development, and strategic planning. The awards will be presented November 9, at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in New Orleans. *********************************************************************************** Syngenta Group Recognized as Top Agriculture Employer Syngenta Group was again recognized as one of the globe's top five leading employers in the 2023 Science Careers Top Employers Survey. Syngenta Group employs 59,000 people across more than 100 countries and works towards the challenging goal of feeding the eight billion people on Earth. A Syngenta spokesperson says, "We are excited that Syngenta Group is again being named as the #1 agricultural employer." Recently, Syngenta Seeds held a grand opening for its R&D Innovation Center in Malta, Illinois, which joins a connected, modern ecosystem of more than 150 Syngenta R&D and production sites worldwide and exemplifies the company's $1.48 billion USD annual investment globally. Syngenta Group, registered in Shanghai, China and with its management headquarters in Switzerland, includes four business units – Syngenta Crop Protection, headquartered in Switzerland, Syngenta Seeds, headquartered in the United States, ADAMA headquartered in Israel, and Syngenta Group China. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Gas and Diesel Prices Fall Again The nation's average gasoline price fell 5.3 cents last week to $3.45 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 36.3 cents from a month ago and 27.4 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $4.43 per gallon—86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The West Coast has been home to some of the largest declines, with California seeing an impressive 80-cent drop in the last four weeks, dispelling the myth that prices don't fall as fast as they go up." De Haan says the national average gas price could drop another 10-20 cents in the weeks ahead. However, any jolt in the Middle East still holds the potential to disrupt current trends, according to De Haan. Oil markets have struggled to hold onto any momentum in recent weeks, and demand declined one percent last week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 31, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Keeping with the Halloween theme on Tuesday, the Federal Reserve will begin a two-day meeting and may spook markets with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday, but general expectations are for no change this time around. At 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the U.S. Labor Department will release its employment cost index for the third quarter, followed by a report of U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Weather Very cold temperatures continue to fill in east of the Rockies on Tuesday, producing widespread frosts and freezes for all but the Southeast. A small system is moving through the Midwest, producing areas of light, but briefly intense snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 30, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - More Wheat Winners, Weather From North to South 1. Cold hits Northern harvest: With some areas of North America already seeing snow and frigid conditions, crop harvest in those areas gets trickier. We will examine the results of weather that turn combines into ersatz snowblowers. Mike and Chandra Langseth, one of our View From the Cab families, have already been preparing for the challenge. 2. South American crop conditions: El Nino usually means drier weather for much of Brazil. But "drier" in an area that normally receives too much rainfall this time of year may not be as bad for the crop as one thinks. We're watching how much conditions will influence the current crop and prospects for the safrina (second-crop) corn. 3. Fertilizers and wars: We've written quite a bit in the past about how the war in the Black Sea affects fertilizer shipments out of Russia and other areas. As it happens, Israel is a fairly important supplier of phosphates. We'll be keeping an eye on all those outlying influences, as well as our usual reporting on fertilizer prices, found in our DTN Retail Fertilizer Trends column. DTN subscribers can see even more detailed price information in their Fuels and Fertilizers or Fertilizers segments, depending on their specific product. 4. More wheat winners: We'll continue to feature the winners in the National Wheat Foundation 2023 contest. Now in its eighth year, the NWF's National Wheat Yield Contest is designed to encourage wheat growers to strive for high yield, quality and profit while trying new and innovative management strategies. DTN/Progressive Farmer is the official media outlet of the competition. Contest partners include: John Deere, WestBred, BASF, U.S. Wheat Associates, Croplan, Eastman, The McGregor Companies, AgriMaxx, Ardent Mills, BushelFarm, Dyna-Gro, GrainSense, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Mennel, North Carolina Small Grain Growers Association, Ohio Corn&Wheat, PlainsGold, UniSouth Genetics, UPL, Grain Craft, Grow Pro, Kansas Wheat, Michigan Wheat, Miller Milling, North Dakota Mill, and Northern Crops Institute. 5. Economic reports to watch: (All times CDT) Monday -- USDA's weekly grain export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Tuesday -- Happy Halloween! The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting that may spook markets with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday. The U.S. Labor Department releases its employment cost index for the third quarter at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. consumer confidence report at 9 a.m. Wednesday -- We'll check manufacturing indices from around the world, with the U.S. index due out at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories follows at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve announces its decision on interest rates. At 2 p.m., NASS releases its monthly report on Fats and Oils. Thursday -- USDA releases its weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, a report on third-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for September will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Friday -- We wrap up the week with the U.S. Labor Department nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for October, hitting at 7:30 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 30, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest news from Israel and Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts. USDA's weekly grain export inspections report is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. when USDA will post its first winter wheat crop ratings for the new season. Weather A strong cold front moved through most of the Plains and Midwest over the weekend, spreading areas of heavy rain and some snow. The front will continue into the Southeast Monday with weakening rain showers. Very cold air filtering in behind the front will cause widespread frosts and freezes for the bulk of the country by midweek. A disturbance following behind the front will bring light snows to the Midwest tonight and Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 27, 2023 |
Iowa Delegation Wants Reduction on Fertilizer Duties Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are calling on the Department of Commerce to lower the countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco. The push comes from the Court of International Trade’s recent remand of DOC’s subsidy calculation. “We ask that Commerce carefully consider and follow the Court’s decision in Commerce’s recalculation of the subsidy amount, both in its final determination in the investigation and its administrative review,” the Iowa delegation said in a letter. “Reducing the subsidy rate would provide welcome relief for U.S. farm suppliers and their customers, who are America’s family farmers.” Grassley and his colleagues cited promising preliminary findings from the DOC on potentially reducing the subsidy rate by about 5.5 percent. Since the Biden administration boosted duties on Moroccan phosphate fertilizers, their supply across the U.S. has dropped, placing an undue financial burden on farmers. The move drove already high input costs up even further. *********************************************************************************** Rabobank: Global Fertilizer Market Set to Recover A recent report from Rabobank says the outlook for global fertilizer markets is positive in the coming years. However, there are some challenges and potential risks to monitor. The global fertilizer market is recovering, with an estimated increase in usage of around three percent this year after a seven percent drop in 2022 because of significant market complications. The Rabobank Affordability Index shows a positive outlook for fertilizer purchasing in 2024, with an expected increase of almost five percent next year. The Farm Input Division at Rabobank says nitrogen growth grew two percent this year, phosphate 3.9 percent, and potash was up five percent. There is a potential impact from the Israel-Hamas War as Israel is a sizable supplier of phosphate and potash. Israel accounts for about three percent of the world’s phosphate exports and eight percent of the global potash supply. Currently, there is sufficient availability and alternative supply sources. *********************************************************************************** Farm Groups Applaud More OFF Act Sponsors Farm groups like Competitive Markets Action, the Organization for Competitive Markets, R-CALF USA, and others applauded seven new sponsors of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. The groups say the OFF Act would restore accountability and transparency to agricultural checkoff programs. In total, the OFF Act now has more bipartisan support than in any previous Congress, including 15 co-sponsors in the House and six in the Senate. “The OFF Act is backed by more than 20,000 American family farmers who are sick and tired of seeing their own checkoff dollars put farmers out of business,” says Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC). The groups say recent debate over the 2024 Ag Appropriations Bill has increased interest in oversight of the 22 government-mandated checkoff programs. They have long been plagued by accusations of corruption and misuse of funds. They also say the new bill sponsors show that momentum is rising for their reform. *********************************************************************************** Alltech Survey Finds Optimism Regarding Sustainable Food System Agri-food leaders around the world believe the industry can work together to create a better, more sustainable food system. That’s according to the Alltech Sustainability Insights report. “Our goal was to listen to the voices of our industry and its stakeholders and develop a robust, future-facing program of insights that are relevant, ambitious, and genuinely impactful,” says Tara McCarthy, global vice president of EST at Alltech. Some of the findings include four out of five respondents agreeing that climate change will make food production more difficult, but perspectives differ across regions. Most respondents agree that regulation is putting pressure on all areas of the supply chain. “Our industry is navigating extraordinary times, but the opportunities for positive impact are even more unprecedented,” says Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Imagine the possibilities of working toward shared goals of providing nutrition for all, revitalizing economies, and replenishing our natural resources.” *********************************************************************************** NCC Elects New Officers The National Chicken Council has installed the four officers that will guide the organization through 2024. The installation took place at NCC’s 68th Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Randy Day, a retired CEO and special adviser to the Perdue Farms Board of Directors, will serve as the 2023-2024 Chairman. Randy led Perdue’s senior leadership team before retiring as CEO after 43 years. He began a career with Perdue Farms in 1980, holding various positions of increasing responsibility in the company’s two operating divisions. Peco Foods Chief Operations Officer Bill Griffith will serve as Vice Chairman, bringing more than 25 years of management experience in the food industry. David Jackson, COO of Simmons Foods, is the NCC Secretary-Treasurer. Mike Brown was also elected to his 13th term as NCC President. “I look forward to working with the new officers to continue advancing the industry’s interests and achieve our shared goals,” Brown says. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Trending Higher The Energy Information Administration reports that ethanol production rose to its highest level in two months, and inventories rose during the seven days ending on October 20. Ethanol production increased to an average of 1.04 million barrels a day. That’s up from 1.03 million the previous week and the highest level since August 18. In the Midwest, output narrowly rose to 987,000 barrels a day from 985,000 the previous week. That’s also the highest in the Midwest since mid-August. East Coast production rose from 10,000 to 12,000 barrels a day, while West Coast output improved from 9,000 the prior week to 10,000 barrels a day. Gulf Coast production was unchanged at 17,000 barrels a day, while the Rocky Mountain region was the only drop, falling by 1,000 barrels a day to 13,000. Ethanol stockpiles through the week of October 20 rose to 21.39 million barrels, up from 21.1 million a week earlier.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 27, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in September will be out at 7:30 a.m. Friday, the same time as the personal consumer expenditures index for September, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation indicator. Traders continue to keep a close watch on South American weather as row crop planting progresses. Weather A cold front is starting to move south and east through the middle of the country and that is bringing some very cold air into the Plains and western Midwest. The front will light up with areas of showers and thunderstorms from Texas to the Great Lakes throughout the day, which could be heavy again in Texas. Winds behind the front are breezy.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 26, 2023 |
AFBF Congratulates Johnson on Speaker Election American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall welcomed the election of Representative Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, to be Speaker of the House. Johnson was the fourth Republican nominee for the post following the ousting of former speaker Kevin McCarthy. Duvall of AFBF says, "Speaker Johnson has a strong history of supporting America's farmers and ranchers, which has earned him the 'Friend of Farm Bureau' award multiple times." Johnson represents Louisiana's 4th Congressional district, encompassing much of the state's western half, and was first elected to Congress in 2016. Johnson calls the election an "honor of a lifetime" while proclaiming, "We will restore trust in this body.” Duvall of Farm Bureau adds,” America’s families are relying on Speaker Johnson, and Congress, to focus on pressing needs, including completion of fiscal year 2024 appropriations and passage of a farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Household Food Insecurity Increased in 2022 New research from USDA finds that in 2022, 12.8 percent of U.S. households were food insecure at some time during the year. Food insecure means they had difficulty providing enough food for all their members because of a lack of resources. The prevalence of food insecurity in 2022 was statistically significantly higher than the 10.2 percent recorded in 2021 and the 10.5 percent in 2020. Very low food security is a more severe form of food insecurity, and the 2022 prevalence of very low food security was 5.1 percent, statistically significantly higher than the 3.8 percent in 2021 and the 3.9 percent in 2020. In response, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The 2022 Household Food Security in the United States report is a sobering reminder that, while the vast majority of Americans are able to affordably feed themselves and their families, too many of our neighbors struggle to put healthy food on the table.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes New Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday previewed the Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards final rule. USDA says the new rule establishes clear, strong and consistent standards for organic livestock and poultry production, levels the playing field for organic livestock farmers, ranchers and businesses and promotes fairer, more competitive markets for their products, while providing consumers with more transparency about their purchases. Vilsack says, "USDA is creating a fairer, more competitive and transparent food system." Strong interest from consumers and the organic industry drove the change. USDA encouraged the public to comment, and USDA received more than 40,000 written comments, all of which were carefully reviewed to inform drafting of this final rule. USDA also held a listening session in August 2022 to hear public comments on the proposed rule. The final rule outlines standards for six key areas, including outdoor space requirements, indoor and outdoor living conditions, poultry stocking densities, preventative health care, physical alterations, and transport, handling and slaughter. *********************************************************************************** Bill to Support Organic Dairy Farmers Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced legislation to support organic dairy farmers and help them address economic challenges like feed shortages and increased costs. The Organic Dairy Assistance, Investment, and Reporting Yields Act of 2023 will increase investments in the organic dairy industry to ensure resiliency and longevity and works to improve data collection for organic milk production to enhance price accuracy and transparency. The Wisconsin Democrat says, "In the face of recent headwinds, I'm committed to delivering the support our dairies need to keep their operations open for generations to come." The legislation would extend emergency assistance to organic dairy farmers facing losses and invest $25 million annually in dairy infrastructure investments. Additionally, the bill directs USDA to the viability of an organic safety net program, which would get aid to farmers faster when disasters hit in the future. Known as the O DAIRY Act of 2023, the bill has broad support from the organic dairy industry, including the Organic Farmers Association. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Launches 2024 Scholarship Program The National Corn Growers Association Wednesday announced the launch of its annual scholarship program for the 2024 academic year. The program is designed to support students who are passionate about agriculture and making a positive impact in their community. NCGA will award scholarships to deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and community involvement. The scholarships are open to students attending technical school, undergraduate universities, and pursuing graduate-level studies. NCGA Membership & Consumer Engagement Action Team Chair Dan Nerud says, “We believe that education is critical in shaping the future of the agriculture industry, and we are committed to providing opportunities for students to achieve their academic and career goals To apply for the scholarship, students must complete an online application. Submissions are now being accepted, and the deadline to complete them is January 31, 2024. All eligible students are encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply, visit NCGA.com/scholarships. *********************************************************************************** NCBA 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award Nominations Open Nominations are now open for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Environmental Stewardship Award. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award Program annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the nation. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "This award celebrates the innovative efforts our industry is undertaking to protect the environment, engage with communities and remain profitable." Any individual, group or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, although nominees may be involved in preparing the application. Past nominees are encouraged to resubmit applications; however, previous winners may not reapply. Along with a typed application, one nomination letter and three letters of recommendation highlighting the nominee's leadership in conservation are required, and the deadline is March 8, 2024. Nominees do not have to be members of NCBA but should support the objectives of their state and national organization. For more information, visit environmentalstewardship.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 26, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, durable goods orders for September, third-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. and traders will continue to keep an eye on the latest weather developments, especially in South America. Weather The zone of precipitation that has been active across the middle of the country all week continues on Thursday with areas of heavy rain from Texas into the Midwest and heavy snow in the Northern Plains, though a little farther south than previous days. Very cold temperatures are pouring into the Northern Plains and will sweep south and east going into next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 25, 2023 |
USDA Boosts Investments in International Trade Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is providing $2.3 billion to help American producers maintain and develop markets for their commodities. Some of the funds will use U.S. commodities to boost international food aid. A request for the funding initially came from the Senate Ag Committee’s leadership, so USDA will be utilizing funds from the Commodity Credit Corporation to address challenges related to trade and food insecurity impacting U.S. farmers and the international community. USDA will use $1.3 billion for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and support for specialty crop industries to diversify export markets. One billion will go to help address global hunger. “The Commodity Credit Corporation continues addressing the needs of American producers as significant and unpredictable challenges arise,” Vilsack says. “Those challenges impact the international commodity markets and global food insecurity in the face of an ongoing conflict.” The goal is to strengthen the U.S. position in global markets. *********************************************************************************** Ag Responds Positively to Funds for Market Development The American Soybean Association joined other groups in applauding the USDA’s efforts to strengthen U.S. trade and food aid. USDA announced a total of $2.3 billion in funds going toward those efforts. “Having these funds to sufficiently support export promotion programs and address hunger are things ASA and soy growers have consistently championed,” says ASA president Daryl Cates. Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, says, “If these funds are distributed to underfunded sectors like dairy, this will put us in a position to be more competitive globally.” Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation, says these new investments in foreign market development are “very timely and much appreciated.” Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council, says, “We look forward to expanding exports of corn, sorghum, barley, and their co-products and are grateful for this new source of funding.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Deadline for Milk Loss Assistance Program The USDA is extending the application deadline for the Milk Loss Program to Monday, October 30. The agency wants to allow more time for eligible dairy farmers to apply for much-needed weather-related disaster recovery assistance. The program compensates dairy producers who dumped or removed milk without compensation from the commercial milk market in 2020, 2021, and 2022 because of qualifying weather events. Eligible causes of loss also include consequences of those weather events, such as power outages, impassable roads, and infrastructure losses. “We recognize that MLP benefits are critical to the financial recovery of dairy operations significantly impacted by weather-related disasters that inhibited their ability to deliver or store their milk,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We know that dairy farming is a 24/7, 365-day commitment and hope this MLP application deadline extension ensures that all dairy farmers in need of assistance will now have adequate time to apply for help.” *********************************************************************************** Two Positive HPAI Cases in Iowa The Iowa Ag Department and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed two positive cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. One of the sites is a commercial turkey flock, and the other is a mixed species backyard flock. Both agencies remind commercial and backyard owners to prevent contact between their flocks and all wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds must be reported to state and federal officials. Other indications may include lethargy or no appetite, decreasing egg production - soft, thin-shelled, or misshapen eggs - swelling in the head or eyelid area, difficulty breathing or coughing, sneezing, falling down, and diarrhea. If a producer in any state suspects HPAI in a flock, they should contact their veterinarian immediately and their state ag department. The CDC says the recent viral detection in birds doesn’t pose a public health concern, and it’s safe to eat poultry products. *********************************************************************************** Student Leaders Prepping for National FFA Convention FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education next week at the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. The time-honored tradition will take place November 1-4. Over 65,000 FFA members from the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are expected to attend. The general sessions will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium. Convention events begin on the first day when Expo attendees can explore various career pathways in agriculture and attend leadership workshops. FFA members and advisors can also take their skills to the next level in student and teacher workshops. They’ll hear from industry leaders, motivational speakers, and many other guests. Members will get to discuss their agricultural projects on the new Student Showcase Stage. Service will be front and center at the event as members will participate in service projects at the convention center and various sites in Indianapolis. ********************************************************************************** IA Ag Secretary on EPA’s Herbicide Strategy Mike Naig, Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency raising serious concerns about its draft Endangered Species Act herbicide strategy. Iowa is a national leader in crop production, so the secretary submitted written comments from the perspective of Iowa farmers and the state’s agriculture community. Naig says he appreciates the agency’s efforts to comply with the Endangered Species Act while still allowing farmers access to crop protection tools. However, he says the proposed strategy is too complex and would be an incredible burden on farmers and pesticide applicators. He also says the EPA must consider the economic impact of the proposed strategy and conduct a thorough economic analysis. “Farmers have proven time and again that they can be productive while also setting conservation records,” Naig says. “This burdensome strategy will jeopardize both those accomplishments.” EPA should also not rush the process to reach a final rule.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 25, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in September will be out at 9:00 a.m. CDT, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m., USDA releases its monthly cold storage report. Also, the Bank of Canada is expected to hold rates steady at 5% Wednesday. Traders continue to have interest in South American weather reports. Weather Active weather continues Wednesday with widespread areas of showers from the Plains into the Midwest due to several features and disturbances in the area. Cold air is filling into the Northern Plains, leading to heavy snow across Montana and North Dakota throughout Wednesday, continuing into Thursday. Some windy spots are possible as well. Heavy rain in parts of the Southern Plains may lead to flooding.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 24, 2023 |
U.S. Soybean Meal Exports Expected to Reach Record High USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service expects record soybean meal exports for marketing year 2022-23, at an estimated 13.2 million tons. USDA says increased soybean crush to supply feedstock oil for growing U.S. biomass-based diesel production is behind the expansion. The new record came from substantial expansion in shipments to the European Union and Vietnam as drought in Argentina, usually the world's largest soybean meal exporter, severely reduced its exportable supplies. Additionally, U.S. soybean meal exports to the Philippines, Colombia, and Mexico held firm despite a strong dollar. In marketing year 2023/24, U.S. soybean meal exports are forecast to reach a new record of 13.9 million tons. U.S. export prices are likely to remain competitive with South American supplies as the United States continues to produce more soybean meal than will be needed domestically, ensuring growing supplies are available to the global market. In the four previous marketing years, exports were relatively flat, hovering over 12 million tons per year. *********************************************************************************** Study Offers Farmer Viewpoint on Precision Tech A new study from South Dakota State University investigates farmers’ viewpoints on the most influential factor behind adopting new technologies and practices: profitability. In the study, researchers highlighted eight widely adopted precision ag technologies, including auto-steering and guidance, automatic section control, satellite/aerial imagery, unmanned aerial vehicle/drone imagery, variable rate fertilizer application, variable rate seed and application, variable rate pesticide application and variable rate irrigation application. The most widely adopted precision ag technologies include auto-steering and guidance, which fit under the georeferencing technology category. Satellite imagery was the next most widely adopted technology, with nearly 60 percent of all farmers having used it. Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles fall under a similar category to satellite imagery. However, drones are much less prevalent, with an adoption rate of 26 percent. To further facilitate precision ag adoption, the research team noted that financial support during the first few years of adopting a new technology could be beneficial. *********************************************************************************** USDA Conducting Sheep Study in 2024 USDA's National Animal Health Monitoring System conducts a national sheep study approximately every ten years, and will do so again next year. The Sheep 2024 Study will support industry groups and research efforts with new information on sheep health and management. The study consists of two phases and includes biological sampling and two questionnaires. A random selection of almost 5,000 sheep operations located in specific states will be asked to participate. While participation is voluntary, it is important to obtain high-quality data. The National Agricultural Statistics Service will contact selected participants in January and February 2024. Participants will be asked to provide their contact information to complete the second phase of the study, which begins in April 2024 and continues through July 2024. Information from the study will help develop new treatments, controls and prevention mechanisms for sheep diseases. The results will also guide future research and education. *********************************************************************************** PPP loans provided $5.8 billion to U.S. farm sector in 2020 Researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service estimate that the Paycheck Protection Program provided $5.8 billion to the farm sector in 2020. The PPP was a non-USDA assistance program for small businesses adversely affected by the pandemic. Total Federal Government payments to the farm sector in 2020 were $45.6 billion, meaning that PPP payments were 13 percent of total payments. The Small Business Administration administered the PPP, providing forgivable loans to eligible small businesses and certain other entities to allow them to cover some of their payroll costs. The PPP loans were forgiven in full if the loan was used on eligible expenses, including at least 60 percent on payroll expenses. Agricultural producers in California were the largest recipients of PPP loans at $1.1 billion, followed by Washington at $285 million. California leads the nation in the value of agricultural production and has the highest hired labor expense among states. *********************************************************************************** Canada Announces Wildfire, Drought Support for Farmers As U.S. farmers faced drought conditions this year, so too did producers from Canada. Recently, Canada announced support for farmers and ranchers who are dealing with extraordinary costs due to drought conditions and wildfires. Canada announced C$219 million of support available through the AgriRecovery Framework. The funding will help them recover and ensure they have the tools they need to continue to be resilient in the face of natural disasters and extreme weather events. The announcement follows the August designation of specific regions for the Livestock Tax Deferral for 2023 due to extreme weather conditions. The Livestock Tax Deferral provision allows livestock producers who are forced to sell all or part of their breeding herd due to drought or excess moisture to defer a portion of their income from sales until the following tax year. This month, Farm Credit Canada also announced a new Replacement Heifer Program to help Canadian cattle producers in maintaining or expanding their herds. *********************************************************************************** Weaker Demand Driving Fuel Prices Lower Average gas prices declined again for the fifth straight week, with gasoline dropping 5.2 cents last week to $3.50 a gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 33.2 cents from a month ago and 26.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. However, the average diesel price increased 3.8 cents last week to $4.48 per gallon, yet 82 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The national average is on the cusp of falling to the lowest level since March, something that could happen this week.” Gasoline demand continues to weaken as the calendar marches towards winter, coupled with cheaper winter gasoline and refinery issues that have faded. For now, that trend will likely mean further declines in the weeks ahead, before prices bottom out between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The most common U.S. gas law week stood at $3.29 per gallon, while demand saw a 1.8 percent decrease.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 24, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no official reports for Tuesday, but several earnings reports will get traders' attention, including reports from ADM, Alphabet (Google), GM, Microsoft and others. Traders are also interested in South American weather, rain in this week's U.S. forecast and news from the wars in Israel and Ukraine. Weather The setup for heavy precipitation continues in the middle of the country Tuesday with remnants of a tropical storm moving through Texas into Missouri throughout the day. A front from Nebraska to Wisconsin is also an area that could see precipitation but is the dividing line of colder air to the north and warm air to the south. Another, stronger cold front is moving through the Canadian Prairies, where snow is common today.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 23, 2023 |
Record-Low Mississippi River Level at Memphis The Mississippi River gauge hit a record-low water level on October 11 at Memphis, Tennessee. The all-time low hit -11.52 feet. It surpasses the previous low of -10.81 feet set in October 2022. The weekly USDA Grain Transportation Report says records were also broken on the Ohio River at Cairo, Illinois. That gauge read 4.5 feet, the lowest river level since 1901. Draft and tow-size restrictions are in place along the entire Mississippi River system. Despite some recent rains, more rain will be needed to raise water levels enough to improve the navigation conditions. Water levels are projected to rise by late October and early November, but navigation conditions aren’t expected to improve before late December or early January. Despite the navigation issues, the recent St. Louis spot freight rate fell for the third week in a row to $23.06 per ton, 68 percent below the same week last year. *********************************************************************************** Big Four Packers Hit with Another Suit The four largest meatpackers were hit by a new price-fixing lawsuit from a group of small food distributors. The suit was filed on October 9 in the U.S. District Court in Northern Illinois, accusing the Packers of fixing prices for years. The plaintiffs say the price-fixing dates back to at least January 1, 2015, and includes Cargill, JBS, Tyson Foods, and National Beef Packing Company. The distributors say the Big Four “exploited their market power in this highly concentrated market by conspiring to limit the supply of beef sold to purchasers in the U.S. wholesale market, which resulted in higher prices paid by the plaintiffs.” They also claim the alleged scheme caused financial harm at least through the end of 2021. “As a result, the plaintiffs paid higher prices for beef than they otherwise would have paid in a competitive market,” the lawsuit says while seeking relief under the Sherman Act. *********************************************************************************** Fourth Consider Corn Challenge Winners Announced The National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the Consider Corn Challenge IV. Four winners were chosen for their unique ways to improve a product or process using feed corn to produce biobased materials. “Corn’s unique versatility can be witnessed in the showcase of their diverse approaches and applications,” says Sarah McKay, director of market development for NCGA. The winners include Penn State University, whose technology uses both corn starch and corn oil for applications in energy storage in lithium batteries. Nexceris has developed a new sugar-to-chemical process that uses renewable dextrose to make industrial chemicals instead of oil or gas. Maizly has developed the world’s first corn-based milk alternative called Maizly Original. Bluestem Biosciences developed a new yeast biology for the sustainable anaerobic production of 3-HP acids. “The Consider Corn Challenge fosters collaborations between corn farmers and industry, paving the way for innovative products and applications,” McKay adds. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Women Sharpen Communication Skills Fifteen farm and ranch women leaders graduated from the fall session of the Women’s Communication Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The agricultural leaders completed an intensive four-day course that featured sessions focused on public speaking, working with the media, and messaging. Program graduates will use this training to support Farm Bureau’s priority issues. This includes participating in local media opportunities, sharing information with elected officials, and joining social media campaigns spotlighting modern agriculture. “Agriculture needs strong advocates who are willing to step up and share their stories at the local, state, and national level,” says Isabella Chism (CHIZ-um), Chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee. “The Farm Bureau women leaders who completed this training are poised to creatively use their skills in a broad range of settings.” The program has a total of 284 graduates over 19 years and is open to all women involved in Farm Bureau. *********************************************************************************** Smaller Operating Loans Slow Ag Lending Activity Farm lending activity slowed further in the third quarter alongside a drop in operating loan volumes. The number of new non-real estate farm loans was flat compared to a year ago, while the average size shrank almost 20 percent. The amount of operating loans over $1 million dropped notably. The Kansas City Fed says lending has softened alongside significant increases in farm loan interest rates that have put considerable upward pressure on financing costs. The farm economy has moderated in recent months as profit margins thinned alongside lower commodity prices and elevated expenses. Credit needs have increased for many borrowers because of high input costs, but strong liquidity built up in recent years has also allowed many producers to supplement additional loan advances. Higher financing costs have prompted farmers with enough liquidity to limit debt usage, but any softening in farm finances could reduce reserves and increase loan demand. *********************************************************************************** September Milk Production Up Slightly Milk production in the 24 major dairy states during September totaled 17.5 billion pounds, up slightly from September 2022. August revised production, at 18.1 billion pounds, was 0.7 percent below August 2022. The August revision represented a decrease of 73 million pounds or 0.4 percent from last month’s preliminary production estimate. Production per cow in the 24 major states averaged 1,960 pounds for September, three pounds above September 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the 24 major states was 8.91 million head, 16,000 head less than in September 2022 and 2,000 head less than August 2023. Milk production in the July through September quarter totaled 56.1 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from the July through September quarter in 2022. The average number of milk cows in the United States during the quarter was 9.38 million head, 43,000 head less than April through June 2023 quarter, and 33,000 head less than 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 23, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep an eye on events in Israel and Ukraine and keep tabs on harvest progress with rain expected in the U.S. this week. USDA's weekly grain export inspections report is at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Cattle prices will respond to Friday's larger-than-expected placement and on-feed totals. Weather Portions of the Southern Plains, Northern Plains, and Upper Midwest will see scattered rain showers Monday. Areas in western Texas have a risk for flash flooding with areas of heavy rain developing. 1.00-2.00 inches of rain are possible in western Texas throughout Monday and into early Tuesday morning.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 20, 2023 |
Ag Groups Urge Caution About Fertilizer Duties The National Corn Growers Association and 62 other ag groups say fertilizer shortages are creating a hardship for U.S. farmers. The groups sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo asking her to consider the current difficulties faced by farmers as she recalculates duties on phosphate fertilizer imported from Morocco. “High costs and limited availability of fertilizer continue to strain family farms across the U.S.,” the groups said. The duties levied on fertilizers have caused some of the top phosphate fertilizer importers to drastically reduce the amount brought in. The letter comes after the U.S. Court of International Trade ordered the agency to reconsider its previous decision on recalculating the duties. The letter says duties levied on phosphate imports combined with other factors have led to substantial price volatility over the past three years as prices increased 230 percent from 2020 to 2022. A determination will be announced on December 13. *********************************************************************************** World Dairy Summit Celebrates the Future The first International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit held in the U.S. in over 30 years recently concluded in Chicago. Over 1,240 dairy leaders from 55 countries celebrated the IDF’s 120th anniversary and highlighted dairy innovations, market opportunities, and contributions to global sustainability and food security. “U. S. Dairy is honored to have hosted this momentous IDF WDS 2023, bringing dairy’s premier annual gathering to the U.S. for the first time in over three decades,” says U.S. IDF Co-Chair Nick Gardner. Summit leadership emphasized bringing the global dairy sector together, releasing a declaration statement calling on governments, global organizations, and the world’s food and beverage sector to support “Being Dairy.” The summit delivered dynamic programming, including eight main sessions and 21 break-out sessions focused on dairy policy, scientific, and technical issues and insights. “The hard work of the dairy sector produces nutritious food for over six billion consumers,” Gardner says. *********************************************************************************** Early 2023 Hog and Cattle Weights Lagged Behind 2022 Live weights of both hogs and cattle ran below year-earlier weights for the early part of 2023. Hog live weights averaged 284.9 pounds through the week ending on July 8, 2023, compared to 287.3 pounds during the same time in 2022. That’s an average difference of over 2.4 pounds. Lower weights this year are likely because of producer losses caused by high feed costs and low hog prices due to weaker pork demand. Live cattle weights averaged 1,370 pounds through May 20, 2023, 16.25 pounds less than weights over the same period last year. Lower weights are likely caused by numerous factors, including more heifers with lower weights in the slaughter mix due to ongoing drought conditions that discouraged the retention of heifers for breeding. Additionally, feedlot performance was likely affected by adverse weather conditions early in 2023, resulting in lower rates of gain. Hog weights hit year-earlier levels in mid-July. *********************************************************************************** Research Investments Spur New Agricultural Markets The USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture announced an investment of almost $22 million in agricultural economics research. That research will include agricultural markets, international trade, farm labor, consumer behavior and nutrition, food retail, agricultural production, processing, and agricultural policy. NIFA Director Manjit (Man-JEET) Misra says, “The challenges facing the agricultural sector, the production and consumption of food, and management of natural resources and the environment continue to evolve.” The agency chief also says NIFA supports research that investigates the increasing global demands for food production in the face of limited resources and changing climate. “These will have major implications for how we use natural resources, promote healthy diets, invest in science, and foster economic opportunities and quality of life for all Americans,” Misra says in a release. He made the announcement in Colorado during a keynote address at the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Service Annual Meeting in Denver. *********************************************************************************** New Eggnog in Time for the Holidays Organic Valley Cooperative released its limited-time eggnog with a new recipe. It’s made from scratch and coming just in time for the holiday season. The farmer-owned organic co-op calls the new recipe its Organic Reduced Fat Eggnog, which is already available for purchase throughout the country. Milk is sourced from small family farms, as well as the eggs, sugar, nutmeg, and natural flavor. Dairy Processing reports that like all Organic Valley products, the eggnog’s milk comes from dairy farms where the cows are raised without the use of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, toxic pesticides, or GMOs. The company says it heard loud and clear from consumers that eggnog is an important part of their winter traditions, so the co-op came together to work hand-in-hand with their smaller family farmers to make the new eggnog a reality. “We’re excited to introduce this made-from-scratch recipe,” says Jaclyn Cardin, chief brand officer at Organic Valley. *********************************************************************************** Butter Prices Hit Record Highs Butter prices have hit a record high this month as lower production levels create supply constraints heading into the holiday season when demand normally peaks. The USDA says spot butter prices on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange hit a record high at $3.44 a pound last week. August butter production was at the lowest level in almost five years because of tighter milk supplies, fewer imports, and the increased use of cream in making other products. Agriculture Dive says the summer’s heat impacted milk supplies in two ways: the heat caused cows to produce less milk, and consumers demanded more ice cream and other dairy-based products. U.S. butter use has trended higher year-over-year since February, but production hasn’t kept up. Year-to-date domestic use was 8.2 percent higher than last year, while production and imports rose only four percent. USDA says the surge in demand is much higher than is typical.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 20, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for October 1 will be out at 2 p.m. Traders will be focused on any new export sales, along with weather in South America, and geopolitical developments from Ukraine or the Middle East. Weather Mostly dry conditions are expected across the Plains and Mississippi Valley Friday with high pressure in control. However, a quick system will move through northern and eastern areas of the Upper Midwest this afternoon and tonight.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 19, 2023 |
Arkansas Orders Syngenta to Sell Farmland Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin this week ordered Syngenta to divest its ownership of approximately 160 acres in the state. Griffin also imposed a civil penalty of $280,000 for failure to timely report foreign ownership by the Chinese state-owned company. The land in question is owned by Northrup King Seed Co., a subsidiary of Syngenta Seeds, LLC, which is ultimately owned by China National Chemical Company, known as ChemChina. Griffin says, "I am ordering ChemChina, as a 'prohibited foreign-party-controlled business' to divest this land within two years, or I will commence an enforcement action in Craighead County circuit court." Under Arkansas Act 636, state law bars a "prohibited foreign-party-controlled business" from acquiring or holding public or private land in Arkansas either directly or through affiliated parties. In March 2022, Syngenta Seeds, LLC submitted paperwork to USDA regarding the property under the federal Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act, stating that "ultimately, the foreign person that holds indirectly a significant interest in the person owning the land is from China." *********************************************************************************** APHIS Partnership to Improve Early Detection of Emerging Animal Diseases The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced a new partnership between the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will place five scientists in labs in each of the five National Animal Health Laboratory Network regions to enhance the capabilities and capacities of the network. USDA Chief Veterinarian Dr. Rosemary Sifford says, "Our goal is to ensure all network laboratories are poised to combat the threat of transboundary and emerging diseases to protect our nation's agricultural and food supply systems." USDA selected the following laboratories to participate: Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Virginia Tech Animal Laboratory Services, Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. The scientists will evaluate and develop diagnostics for animal and zoonotic diseases. They will collaborate across the organizations and will be responsible for evaluating local, regional, national, and international threats and ensuring the laboratories have the tools necessary to diagnose emerging threats. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Reintroduce the Adopt GREET Act Lawmakers Wednesday announce the reintroduction of the Adopt GREET Act. The legislation is a bipartisan bill directing the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, John Thune of South Dakota, and Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar introduced the legislation. Grassley says, "My colleagues and I are working to empower the innovation stemming from our energy and agricultural communities, and get federal emissions testing up to speed with private sector producers." The Adopt GREET Act would require the EPA to apply the Argonne National Lab's "Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation" or GREET Model to energy commodities under the Renewable Fuel Standard. It would hold EPA accountable by ensuring the agency updates its modeling every five years. The EPA would need to report to Congress either affirming its modeling is current or explaining why no updates were made. *********************************************************************************** OTA Welcomes Organic Standards Act The Organic Trade Association applauds the introduction of the Continuous Improvement and Accountability in Organic Standards Act. The legislation ensures organic standards continuously evolve and improve and to hold the federal government accountable for keeping up with the needs and expectations of the dynamic organic marketplace. The legislation would amend the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 to provide a streamlined and predictable process to review and revise organic standards implemented by USDA. It would enable the improvement and advancement of organic to forge ahead into the future. OTA CEO and Executive Director Tom Chapman says, "Ensuring continuous improvement for organic is our highest priority in the 2023 Farm Bill, and this legislation goes far to address that objective." The bill requires the USDA to review and revise national organic standards "not less frequently than once every five years." The legislation also highlights the continuation of the established consultation process with the National Organic Standards Board and input from the public. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Nearly $50 Million to Strengthen Forest Products USDA’s Forest Service Wednesday announced nearly $50 million in grant funding. The funding is for proposals that support crucial links between resilient, healthy forests, strong rural economies and jobs in the forestry sector. USDA says the funding will spark innovation, create new markets for wood products, expand processing capacity, and help tackle the climate crisis. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "We are investing in rural economies by growing markets for forest products through sustainable forest management while reducing wildfire risk, fighting climate change, and accelerating economic development." The Forest Service is requesting proposals from eligible entities in the private, non-profit, and government sectors, including Tribes, local and state governments, businesses and for-profit entities, institutions of higher education, as well as public utility, fire, conservation, and school districts, among others. These investments will support forest management projects to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk across all land ownerships. Visit the Forest Service webpage for more information. *********************************************************************************** New Call for Applications in Aflatoxin Research Grants The National Corn Growers Association Wednesday announced a new round of research grants to help farmers manage aflatoxin issues. Proposals not exceeding the $100,000 per year limit—will be accepted by the Aflatoxin Mitigation Center of Excellence no later than Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The competitive grants program offers research grants for projects focused on solving profit-robbing aflatoxin issues for farmers. The program was developed by a consortium of southern state corn checkoff boards to provide a unified approach to funding projects affecting growers across the region. NCGA serves as the management structure to leverage more dollars for solving aflatoxin issues and to build strong regional teams, which would be highly competitive for federal, public, and private funding. Projects funded through the grant program for 2024 should focus on one of these three priority research areas: ideas that prevent or defend against aflatoxin, In-field mitigation measures, and post-harvest strategies. For more information, visit NCGA.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 19, 2023 |
Thursday Market Watch Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather Isolated to scattered rain showers are likely across the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Tennessee Valley today as a cold front works from west to east across these regions. Dry and relatively warm conditions return across the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 18, 2023 |
CRP Pays Over $1.77 Billion The USDA has issued over $1.77 billion this year to agricultural producers and landowners through its Conservation Reserve Program. The agency says the program is a critical piece of the Department’s efforts to support climate-smart agriculture and forestry on working lands. More than 667,000 participants received payments from the Farm Service Agency for their voluntary conservation efforts on more than 23 million acres of private land. “Through the addition of tools to sequester carbon, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and better quantify these efforts, we’ve made the Conservation Reserve Program better for the nation’s ag producers and landowners and our natural resources,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The USDA also listed the top five states for CRP participation payments, including Iowa at number one, followed by Illinois, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Missouri. “We are grateful to all CRP participants who are making a tremendous difference now and for future generations,” Vilsack adds. *********************************************************************************** Global Crop Protection Market to Jump by 2032 The global agricultural landscape is on the brink of a large shift, with the crop protection chemicals market points to witness extraordinary growth. The market will exceed $132.4 billion by the year 2032. Global Market Insights, Inc., says the unprecedented surge can be attributed to a confluence of factors ranging from technological advancements to swelling population numbers to the pressing need for more sustainable agricultural practices. The world population expected to reach almost 9l7 billion people by 2050 necessitates a dramatic surge in food production. This will put immense pressure on the ag sector, and crop protection chemicals play an instrumental role in ensuring optimal yields. While the use of crop protection tools is essential to modern agriculture, sustainable practices like biopesticides and the exploration of natural enemies are examples of a shift towards more ecologically stable approaches. As world population surges, crop protection chemicals will help ensure food security. *********************************************************************************** Senators Challenge EPA Rodenticide Restrictions Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MI), along with 15 Senate colleagues, are challenging the EPA to abandon its proposed mitigation measures targeting 11 rodenticides. In a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, the senators urged Regan to consult the businesses and individuals who rely on rodent control products when developing rules that affect their operations. “As written, the proposed mitigation measures will place severe restrictions on product users and result in crop damage and livestock loss, jeopardize the safety of the food supply, weaken public health protections, and make it more difficult for people to protect their homes and properties from rodents,” the letter says. The EPA’s proposed mitigation measures would classify most rodent control products as restricted-use pesticides and require users to become licensed, state-certified applicators. It would prohibit surface application methods for protecting crops and require growers to conduct carcass searches for two weeks after application. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trims America’s Feed Grain Supplies October U.S. feed grain production is forecast at 396.6 million tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year, down 1.8 million tons on reduced corn and sorghum output. With lower beginning stocks partly offset by a slight bump in imports, the total feed grain supply is projected 4.1 million tons lower this month at 436 million. Reflecting a slight yield decrease to 173 bushels per acre on unchanged harvested acreage, U.S. corn production is 69.5 million bushels lower this month at 15.06 billion. The September 30 Grain Stocks Report estimated American corn stocks on September 1 at 1.36 billion bushels, down 90 million from the September WASDE report. With reductions in food, seed, and industrial use and exports based on observed data, 2022-2023 feed and residual disappearance is higher than previously forecast. These factors contribute to smaller carry-in for the 2023-2024 marketing year and, ultimately, a lower corn supply, projected at 16.45 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** NHSTA CAFE Standards Will Weaken Energy Security The National Highway Traffic Safety Standards proposed new fuel economy standards that greatly missed the intent of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Program to enhance energy security. That’s according to comments filed by the National Corn Growers Association, the Renewable Fuel Association, and the National Farmers Union. They assert the proposal will lead to an overreliance on critical foreign minerals due to its singular dependence on electric vehicles. “As NHTSA determines the appropriate CAFE and fuel efficiency standards, it should avoid putting all our eggs into the electrification basket,” the groups say in their comments. “The proposal missed the intent of the CAFÉ program. As Congress acknowledged, solving energy security and air pollution issues related to the transportation sector require a diversified portfolio of approaches.” The associations note problems with overreliance on electric vehicles because of the increased security vulnerabilities of getting critical minerals from overseas that are needed for the batteries. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Export Inspections Drop Inspections of corn for overseas delivery dropped week-to-week while bean assessments improved. USDA data says corn inspections totaled 434,471 metric tons in the seven days ending on October 12. That’s a significant drop from over 800,400 tons the week prior and just below the 460,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Examinations of soybeans for export surged to just over two million metric tons last week, up from 1.4 million the previous week and higher than the 1.93 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Wheat inspections also rose, increasing to 354,771 metric tons from just over 306,600 tons during the previous week. That’s also up from the 244,500 tons assessed during the same week in 2022. Since the new marketing year began on September 1, USDA has assessed 3.93 million metric tons of corn for offshore delivery, and soybean inspections are at 5.4 million tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 18, 2023 |
Wednesday Market Watch Markets Wednesday morning, the government will report housing starts and building permits. We will be watching for any new sales announcements and for weather changes in South America. Weather A low pressure system will bring areas of scattered, light rain showers to the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest Wednesday. By Wednesday night, this system will continue shifting east, providing light rain showers to the northern Mississippi River Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 17, 2023 |
U.S. Grains Council Hosting Global Ethanol Summit The U.S. Grains Council kicked off the week by hosting the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington, D.C., held for the first time since 2019. The Global Ethanol Summit is an education and trade forum that seeks to elevate bioethanol's international visibility. U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says, “I’m thrilled to see so many industry leaders and policymakers gathering here in the Washington area with the common goal of implementing environmental and human-health friendly bioethanol in regions around the world.” Monday programming offered keynote addresses from POET Founder and CEO Jeff Broin, Summit Agricultural Group Executive Chairman Bruce Rastetter and U.S. Department of Agriculture Acting Deputy Undersecretary Jason Hafemeister. Memorandums of understanding will be signed between domestic producers and overseas importers Tuesday (today). At the end of the event, 11 groups of participants will travel around the country to view the biofuel value chain firsthand before returning to their home countries. The event concludes Wednesday. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Milk Loss Program Assistance The Department of Agriculture last week extended the application deadline for the Milk Loss Program to Monday, October 30, 2023. The extension allows more time for eligible dairy farmers to apply for much-needed, weather-related disaster recovery assistance. Administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency, MLP compensates dairy producers who, because of qualifying weather events, dumped or removed milk without compensation from the commercial milk market in calendar years 2020, 2021 and 2022. Eligible causes of loss also include consequences of these weather events, such as power outages, impassable roads and infrastructure losses. FSA opened MLP enrollment on September 11, 2023; the original MLP deadline was October 16, 2023. Most producers, especially those who have previously participated in FSA programs, will likely have the required forms already on file. But those who are uncertain or want to confirm the status of their forms can contact FSA at their local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Monthly Cotton and Wool Outlook The latest Department of Agriculture cotton projections for 2023/24 indicate global cotton beginning and ending stocks decreased by approximately ten million bales, 11 percent, from the previous month. The decrease, however, was largely attributable to a permanent accounting change for Brazil’s production data back to 2000/01. For 2023/24, global cotton ending stocks, at 79.9 million bales, are 2.9 million bales, or 3.5 percent lower than the previous year, as mill use is estimated to exceed production. China accounts for nearly half of global cotton stocks once again in 2023/24, with India, Brazil, and the United States combining for an additional 25 percent. World cotton production is forecast at 112.6 million bales in 2023/24, 3.2 percent below the previous year, as the global yield is projected to decline. World cotton trade is projected to rise 17 percent in 2023/24, supporting the expected 4.4 percent increase in global cotton mill use to 115.8 million bales. *********************************************************************************** Grants to Establish Children’s Health Research Centers in Rural Communities The Environmental Protection Agency Monday announced $3.7 million in grant funding to two institutions to establish research centers. The facilities will address children’s cumulative health impacts from agricultural and non-chemical exposures. Children in underserved, rural agricultural communities face increased health risks due to the combination of agricultural, according to the EPA. The agency says there is an urgent need to investigate the cumulative health impacts of chemical and non-chemical exposures for children in these communities. EPA spokesperson Chris Frey says, “EPA is funding these research centers to identify effective, science-based options aimed at reducing early childhood health disparities in agricultural communities.” Florida State University will use the funding to evaluate chemical and psychosocial stressors and promote children’s cumulative health in rural and agricultural communities. The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center will use the grants to mitigate the chemical and non-chemical stressors that affect school absenteeism caused by gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in Texas and Oklahoma. *********************************************************************************** Tulare County, California Top Ag Producer in 2022 Tulare (too-larry) County, California, is the number one ag-producing county in the United States for 2022. While Fresno County, California, reported a record $8 billion haul for 2022, it didn't beat Tulare County's $8.6 billion report. Both counties benefited from improved market prices and continue to corner the market in the top spots in the nation for ag production. Add in Kern County, California, at number three, and the Central Valley counties are a combined agriculture and economic powerhouse valued at $24.4 billion. Putting this in perspective, three California counties account for 44 percent of California's total ag production value of $55.8 billion. Tulare County has a growing population of 479,112 and includes an area of 4,863 square miles. The fertile valley floor in the Western half of the county has allowed Tulare County to become the top producer of agricultural commodities in the United States, while the Eastern half is comprised of mostly public lands. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline After Volatile Week For the fourth consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline dropped, falling 11.3 cents from a week ago to $3.55 per. The national average is down 29.9 cents from a month ago and 30.9 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.8 cents last week and stands at $4.48 per gallon, 55.2 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "For now, the national average is likely to soon fall to its lowest level in six months." However, De Haan cautions, "this depends on actions that are not foreseeable, mainly the conflict in the Middle East." As the situation continues to unfold, markets will be watching interactions between Iran as well as responses from Israel, and while all eyes have been on those escalations, Saudi Arabia has put an end for now to a possible weapons and security pact between the U.S. and Israel.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 17, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Tuesday morning, the U.S. government will be out with retail sales and industrial production reports. We will also be watching for developments in the Israel versus Hamas conflict, with President Joe Biden arriving Wednesday for a meeting with Israel representatives. We will also be watching for any new export sales, and weather in South America. Weather A storm system will be moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains on Tuesday, producing some areas of isolated showers throughout the day with increasing winds. The rest of the country is rather quiet.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 16, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Global Events, Reports Drive Markets 1. Post-WASDE worries: Lowered corn expectations in the United States (see our latest USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report coverage) will continue to run into the market volatility driven by global conflicts and the ongoing Congressional leadership drama. DTN analysts will continue to factor all this windage and elevation into where the commodity market targets hit. 2. Soil moisture watch: We'll watch drought monitors in the U.S. and in Canada to see how recent rains have changed soil moisture as we go into late fall and winter. Conditions continue to cause low water levels in the Mississippi River Valley, causing barge issues up and down those critical waterways. 3. Crop insurance comes into focus: With more than a third of the U.S. corn crop harvested, farmers have concrete ideas about their yields. Those real-world results are also reflected in this month's WASDE report, which lowered corn yields to 173 bushels per acre for expected average. Lower corn yields are coinciding with lower prices, which means crop insurance payments are becoming more likely for farmers who chose revenue-guarantee products. 4. Cattle numbers coming: This week sees the latest USDA Cattle on Feed report coming out Friday. We'll have our analyst's preview of the report mid-week, then actual numbers hit at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, with analysis of those numbers shortly after. 5. Economic reports calendar: Monday will see USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll have our commentary on Crop Progress soon after. Tuesday is a broad economy two-fer with U.S. retail sales for September due out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Fed's report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday features the U.S. housing starts for September, out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Fed releases its description of economic activity in the Beige Book. Thursday is a busy morning, with USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims and the updated U.S. Drought Monitor all due at 7:30 a.m. CDT. U.S. existing home sales in September and U.S. leading indicators are both due out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. As noted earlier, Friday is USDA's monthly cattle on feed report for Oct. 1.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 16, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest news from Israel and Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts with seasonal attention on South America. USDA's weekly grain export inspections are due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A lull between systems has set itself into the middle of the country for Monday, keeping most areas dry. Isolated showers may form south of the Great Lakes, however. Some cold morning temperatures will produce frosts in the Plains Monday morning and Tuesday morning as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 13, 2023 |
Higher Interest Rates, Strong Dollar Affecting Rural Economies CoBank says the combination of high interest rates and a strong U.S. dollar is beginning to take a disproportionate toll on rural industries like agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. Most international transactions are still conducted in dollars, and a strong dollar makes U.S. exports more expensive and imports cheaper. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says that disproportionately hurts the backbone of the rural economy. “The challenge for agriculture and other rural industries that rely heavily on global markets is their export partners simply can’t afford to buy U.S. products,” says Rob Fox, Knowledge Exchange Director. America’s economic position relative to other countries has gotten much stronger than anticipated. The expectation that interest rates will remain high for the foreseeable future has also contributed to the stronger dollar. “When you combine the export loss with a general slowdown in the U.S. economy, it’s a double whammy for many businesses in rural America,” says Fox. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Produces Less Corn, More Soybeans Brazil’s corn production will drop significantly while the soybean output will surge in the 2023-2024 marketing year. Those numbers come from CONAB (KOH-nab), Brazil’s food agency. South American corn output is projected at 119.4 million metric tons. If it’s reached, that would be down from the 131.9 million metric tons produced in the 2022-2023 marketing year. Also, soybean output is now forecast by CONAB at 162 million metric tons. The rise is tied to strong overseas demand, especially from China. Production during the previous marketing year totaled 154.6 million metric tons. CONAB says total grain and soybean production is predicted to reach 317.5 million metric tons, a number the agency says is down 1.5 percent year over year. Wheat production was predicted to reach 10.5 million metric tons, down modestly year over year because of weather issues. Brazil’s rice output is expected to rise 7.7 percent to 10.8 million tons. *********************************************************************************** October WASDE Shows Lower U.S. Corn and Soybean Production The latest World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates Report says U.S. corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, down 70 million on a cut in yield to 173 bushels per acre. The corn outlook predicts reduced supplies, down less than one percent, but ten percent above 2022. The season-average corn price received by producers was raised a nickel to $4.95 a bushel. Soybean production is forecast at 4.1 billion bushels, down 42 million on lower yields. The yield is predicted at 49.6 bushels per acre, down 0.5 bushels from last month. With lower production partly offset by higher beginning stocks, supplies are reduced by 24 million bushels. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $12.90 per bushel. Wheat supplies were raised by 85 million bushels this month, primarily on higher production as reported in the NASS Small Grains Summary. The season-average farm price dropped 20 cents per bushel to $7.30. *********************************************************************************** September Food Price Index Unchanged The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 121.5 points in September, basically unchanged from the value in August. Declines in the price index for vegetable oils, dairy, and meat offset increases in the sugar and cereal price indices. That 121.5 reading was ten percent below its corresponding level from a year ago and 24 percent from the all-time high in March 2022. The Sugar Price Index took the biggest jump in September, rising 14.5 points from August to an average of 162.7 points. It’s the highest level since November 2010. The Cereal Price Index rose one percent to 126.3 points in September. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped five points in September to average 120.9 points. The Dairy Price Index averaged 108.6 points during the month, down 2.6 points and 34 points under the same time last year. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent to 114.2 points. *********************************************************************************** Fund Awards Over $1 Million to U.S. Farmers and Ranchers American Farmland Trust recently awarded more than $1 million to 110 farmers around the country through the Brighter Future Fund. The grant announcement came out on National Farmer’s Day that recognizes the importance of American farmers. This year, AFT received more than 1,500 applications from 48 states, an all-time high and almost double the number of applications last year. Priority was given to applicants who were starting their agricultural pursuits, veterans, women, or those with limited resources. Funds were allocated for both professional services and equipment or infrastructure costs, with focus areas including improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. AFT awards grants to farmers and ranchers to advance its mission to protect farmland, promote sound farming practices, and keep farmers on the land. The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers around the U.S. start, grow, and sustain farms despite a number of challenges. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Want Congress to Pass AM Radio Legislation Nine organizations representing rural and agricultural interests wrote a letter to Congress in support of passing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. “AM radio is an essential communications medium in rural America,” the letter says. “Local news, weather, and sports reporters are recognized as respected sources for information that affects the lives of millions of rural residents.” The letter was sent to lawmakers by multiple groups like the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas, the Latino Farmers & Ranchers International, the Livestock Marketing Association, the National Farmers Union, the National Grange, and others. The letter touts the reach of traditional AM radio broadcasts that carry a strong signal over significant distances, even during catastrophic weather events. FEMA also relies on AM radio to deliver critical public safety information. “When power goes out in rural America and cell networks drop, households can still get emergency information through their radios,” the letter adds.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 13, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. Friday, one day after USDA reduced export estimates for corn and soybeans. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index follows at 9 a.m. Traders remain interested in the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine, Israel and Washington D.C. Weather A storm system is moving eastward into the Midwest Friday, bringing areas of heavy rain with it. Strong winds in the Plains may reach up to 60 mph through the daylight hours before winding down Friday night. Cold air filtering in behind the system will bring the first frosts and freezes to the southwestern Plains Friday night.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 12, 2023 |
Survey Reveals Consumer Purchasing Behaviors A new survey from the United Soybean Board reveals valuable insights into consumer preferences and purchasing attitudes for animal protein, particularly pork products. According to the survey, 70 percent of respondents say that animal diet is extremely or very important to them when purchasing meat, up from 51 percent in 2019. Meat consumers who prefer soy-fed meat say it offers better health, higher quality, greater nutrition and better taste. This research confirms that consumers desire to know more about their meat choices, such as what poultry and livestock consume. The study found three out of four consumers are more likely to purchase meat if it’s raised and fed by U.S. farmers. Even higher than that, the majority of consumers, at 88 percent, are more likely to purchase meat from animals born, bred and raised in the United States. USB commissioned global market research firm Reputation Leaders to survey more than 2,000 U.S. adults online for the study. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces New School Lunch Grants Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced two new grant opportunities plus a training and technical assistance partnership to help schools continue to invest in nutritious school meals. The announcement comes as USDA recognizes National School Lunch Week, as proclaimed by President Biden, and National Farm to School Month. Vilsack says, "USDA is committed to giving students the nutrition they need to reach their full potential by empowering schools to continue serving delicious, healthy meals." USDA is partnering with the Urban School Food Alliance to provide training and tools to school districts to help them purchase high-quality foods while keeping costs low. In addition, two new grant opportunities are opening to support school meals, including USDA's Farm to School Grants, and the School Food Systems Transformation Challenge Sub-Grants. In addition, this month, the Farm to School Program also launched the 2023 Farm to School Census, a periodic survey of school districts’ participation in local procurement and agricultural education activities. *********************************************************************************** Strong Finish for Q3 Tractor Sales Unit sales of four-wheel-drive ag tractors experienced a notable upswing in both the U.S. and Canada in September, closing the third quarter of 2023 in a strong position. The latest monthly data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows 100-plus two-wheel-drive tractors, and four-wheel-drive tractors grew year-over-year in the United States. Both segments, along with combines, remain positive for the year. Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors are down 4.3 percent compared to sales in September 2022, with 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive units being the only other growth segment, while combine sales finished nearly flat, only selling eight fewer units than the previous year. Canadian tractor sales fell nearly 14 percent, with combines declining more than 37 percent. Year to date, at the end of the third quarter of 2023, combine sales overall are positive, up more than 25 percent, while tractors altogether are down just over eight percent in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Growing Share of Egg-Laying Hens Are Cage-free Cage-free hens comprise a growing percentage of the U.S. egg-laying flock, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. The cage-free flock has grown as states have passed and enacted legislation banning confinement of hens, and as multiple retailers and food service providers have pledged to only source eggs from cage-free operations. Additional State bans are planned to take effect between 2023 and 2026. The cage-free egg-laying flock increased by more than 10.5 million hens in the first six months of 2023, according to USDA’s Monthly Cage-Free Shell Egg report. Cage-free hens increased as a proportion of the total U.S. laying flock, expanding from 36 percent in January to 38 percent in June. The non-organic cage-free flock accounted for most of the increase. Meanwhile, in late 2021, cage-free lay rates have been moving mostly above or at similar levels to the lay rates in the overall table egg-laying flock, a departure from the previous trend. *********************************************************************************** NIFA Invests $1.8 Million in Pest Management Alternatives USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has invested $1.8 million in four projects as part of the Methyl Bromide Transition Program. Methyl bromide is an odorless, colorless gas previously used in many agricultural and related systems as a soil and structural fumigant to control various pests. However, Methyl bromide depletes the stratospheric ozone layer. As part of the Clean Air Act, the U.S. Government agreed to reduce methyl bromide incrementally from 1991 until the complete phase-out in 2005. The Methyl Bromide Transition Program supports the discovery and implementation of practical pest management alternatives for commodities and uses affected by the methyl bromide phase-out. Funded projects include integrated and Extension-only projects seeking to solve pest problems in key agricultural production and post-harvest management systems, processing facilities, and transport systems for which methyl bromide has been withdrawn or withdrawal is imminent. The 2023 Awardees include Arkansas State University, University of Delaware, Kansas State University and North Carolina State University. *********************************************************************************** Students Encouraged to Apply for Beef Industry Scholarship The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the 2024 CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to outstanding students pursuing careers in the beef industry. Introduced in 1989 and sponsored by CME Group, the scholarship identifies and encourages students who play a vital role in the future of food production. Students studying education, communication, production, research or other areas related to the beef industry are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship program. Eligible applicants must be a graduating high school senior or full-time undergraduate student enrolled at a two- or four-year institution. The application process includes submitting a one-page letter expressing career goals related to the beef industry, a 750-word essay describing an issue in the beef industry and offering solutions to this problem and two letters of recommendation. The applicant or a family member must be a National Cattlemen's Beef Association member. The application deadline is November 10, 2023. For more information and to apply, visit nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 12, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday is a busy day with U.S. weekly jobless claims due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as the consumer price index for September and update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly report of energy inventories at 10:00 a.m. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its Crop Production and WASDE Reports for October, followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A strong storm system continues to build in the Central Plains Thursday morning. Heavy rain and thunderstorms have formed in a band from Wyoming to Chicago, which will continue to build in this general area and farther north throughout the day. Winds continue to increase in the Plains around the developing low-pressure center, which will be much more significant tonight into Friday as the system tracks eastward. Snow is also likely to mix in over parts of Wyoming and western Nebraska, though accumulation will be difficult. Heavy rain continues to track through the Southeast this morning as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 11, 2023 |
Smithfield Foods to Close North Carolina Pork Plant Smithfield Foods will close its Charlotte, North Carolina, pork-processing plant and transfer production to its Tar Heel, North Carolina, facility. The company says the move is to increase efficiency and better utilize existing capacity, and comes as the company faces “abundant supplies and soft demand” weighing on pork prices. The company will provide financial and other transition assistance to the 107 employees affected by this closure and will meet with employees to discuss options, including transfer to other Smithfield locations. Smithfield will also provide a financial incentive package for hourly employees to remain at Charlotte until the final day of production in December. Smithfield employs nearly 40,000 people in the U.S. and more than 10,000 in North Carolina. The company is not alone, as Tyson Foods announced the shutdown of six chicken processing facilities this year and cut jobs at others in North Carolina. *********************************************************************************** NARA Launches Organics Recycling Information Campaign NARA, the North American Renderers Association, just released an infographic on Organics Recycling and How Recycling Food Waste with Rendering Creates Value and Ensures Sustainability. The graphic is an educational tool for those who may not be familiar with the rendering process and the sustainability and economic benefits of rendering food waste. With the passing of Senate Bill 1383 in California in 2022, which requires local governments to collect and recycle organic waste, NARA felt it was critical to release this information publicly. Roughly 50 percent of a meat animal is considered inedible by North Americans. This leaves a lot of leftover material that would end up in landfills and increase greenhouse gas emissions. By diverting this organic meat from landfills and sending it to rendering facilities, it ensures this otherwise wasted material, as well as used cooking oil, is safely, hygienically and sustainably processed into safe and clean rendered material for use in new products – so nothing is wasted. The graphic is available on the NARA website. *********************************************************************************** World Food Program Launches Gaza, West Bank Humanitarian Efforts The United Nations World Food Program is deeply concerned by the rapidly deteriorating situation in Israel and Palestine. As the conflict intensifies, civilians, including vulnerable children and families, face mounting challenges in accessing essential food supplies, with food distribution networks disrupted and food production severely hampered by hostilities. The program called for humanitarian corridors on Tuesday as it launched an emergency operation for Gaza and the West Bank. WFP urgently requires access and funding to reach those in need. A total of $17.3 million is needed in the next four weeks to address the situation. On Monday, WFP distributed ready-to-eat food to 73,000 people. Distributions are ongoing daily for displaced people in shelters in Gaza. In the next few days, pending the replenishment of food stocks through the opening of humanitarian corridors, WFP will distribute food to 300,000 people in host communities and make available cash-based-platforms to humanitarian partners. *********************************************************************************** Delivery Innovation Could Reduce Hunger Delivery of food may be the way to increase access in rural America, according to a recent report by CoBank. While roughly one in ten Americans faces food insecurity, rural communities are particularly affected. Rural communities comprise 63 percent of all U.S. counties but 87 percent of the counties with the highest rates of food insecurity. Food delivery has become an expected service for many Americans. However, only 37 percent of rural residents have access to major food delivery services. Delivery mechanisms exist, particularly for shelf-stable food and beverage, even if it takes the form of FedEx, UPS or USPS. Fresh food offerings present another challenge altogether, but more direct-to-consumer approaches should, in the long term, be able to capitalize on improvements in technology to reach those who simply don't live near a grocery store. Further, the report suggests that convenience stores, dollar stores and even liquor stores have been considered as possibilities for reducing food insecurity in more rural areas. *********************************************************************************** Measuring USDA’s National School Lunch Program This week is National School Lunch Week and USDA's Economic Research Service is out with new data about the programs' success. USDA's National School Lunch Program served 4.9 billion lunches in fiscal year 2022, and about 228.9 billion lunches since 1971. Any student in a participating school can get a National School Lunch Program lunch. Typically, students may be eligible for either a free, reduced-price, or full-price lunch, depending on their household's income. Compared with previous years, a higher share of the lunches were served for free or at a reduced price in fiscal years 2020 through 2022. This was in large part because of USDA waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic allowing for meals to be provided free of charge to all students. The onset of the pandemic interrupted the operations of many schools, disrupting the provision of lunches through the NSLP. In response, USDA allowed schools to serve free meals through the Summer Food Service Program or the Seamless Summer Option. *********************************************************************************** Newsom Signs California Food Safety Act California Governor Gavin Newsom last week signed the California Food Safety Act. While delayed until 2027, the legislation bans food products containing brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and red dye 3. Newsom cited similar bans in the European Union in his announcement, saying, "There have been many misconceptions about this bill and its impacts." In referencing a bag of Skittles from the European Union, Newsom claimed it was "demonstrable proof that the food industry is capable of maintaining product lines while complying with different public health laws, country-to-country." The European Union banned the food additives in question following a review in 2008. The California measure requires food makers to reformulate their products to comply with the law when selling them in the state, beginning January 1, 2027. Food manufacturers are unlikely to produce two versions of a product, thus the law is expected to impact products nationwide. Other states are considering similar measures.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 11, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases the producer price index for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, one day ahead of the consumer price index. Minutes from the Federal Reserve's meeting in September will become public at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep an eye on events in Israel and in Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts. Grain markets may be quiet ahead of Thursday's USDA reports. Weather A storm system will be moving out of the West and into the Plains throughout the day Wednesday. Areas of thunderstorms have already started up in northern Missouri and will spread both west through Nebraska and east through the Midwest throughout the day and especially tonight. Winds will also be a bit breezy in the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 10, 2023 |
Mexico Fuels August Pork Exports While Beef Rebounds August U.S. pork exports were steady compared to last year and led by another tremendous performance in Mexico. Data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says August exports totaled 226,519 metric tons, while export value dropped 1.5 percent to $649.5 million. Exports to Mexico remained at a record pace and set a value record in August at $211.7 million. “I can’t say enough about Mexico’s remarkable demand for U.S. pork and the revenue it generates,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Exports also trended higher year-over-year to Japan, Canada, Central America, the Dominican Republic, Oceania, and Taiwan. August beef exports totaled 109,000 metric tons: 19 percent lower than last year but a six percent increase from July. Export value hit $884 million, 15 percent below last year but nine percent higher than July. August lamb muscle cut exports dropped 14 percent from last year to 107 million tons. *********************************************************************************** HPAI Confirmed in South Dakota The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed that the first commercial case of highly pathogenic avian influenza was discovered in South Dakota. APHIS says the virus was confirmed in a commercial turkey flock of 47,300 birds on October 4. Another case was also recently confirmed in a small non-commercial flock located in Idaho. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency also reported four commercial cases of the virus since mid-September. The most recent case was announced on October 3 in a commercial flock located in Alberta. The agency doesn’t disclose the type of poultry or how many birds were involved in the infection. One of the first clinical signs of HPAI in domestic birds is sudden, unexplainable death. Many infected birds drop their water consumption in the 72 hours that lead up to their unexplainable death. Decreased egg production and depression in layers may be another sign that the birds are ill. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Prices Mostly Higher in September The Agricultural Marketing Information System’s October “Market Monitor” report says that fertilizer prices were mostly higher in September, as were the prices for the main fertilizer inputs. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says price movements for several fertilizer categories were influenced by strength in the Indian market and uncertainty around exports from China. AMIS also says these two countries will be a major influence on market developments as will demand for the fall application season in the Northern Hemisphere. Fertilizer inputs like natural gas went higher in September. Markets should be focusing on monitoring EU stock levels, which are currently near capacity. Ammonia prices also surged in September, supported by major plant outages. Ammonia buyers also showed unusually strong interest during this time of year that’s normally a quiet period. Nitrogen fertilizer prices rose in September. Urea price increases were driven by concerns about Chinese export levels. *********************************************************************************** Rancher Resilience Grant Helps Producer Attend CattleCon24 The Rancher Resilience Grant offers support to beef and dairy cattle producers by allowing them to attend CattleCon24 and Cattlemen’s College for free. Eligibility depends on qualifications and application responses. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says it’s the perfect way for producers to get a ticket to CattleCon and experience the combination of education, events, and fun. All beef and dairy cattle producers are eligible for the Ranchers Resilience Grant. It requires registering for CattleCon24, and applicants must have the Cattlemen’s College Education packet. The first 75 applicants will be awarded a fixed grant designed to ease their way to CattleCon24 and Cattlemen’s College. This grant includes one Education Package Registration and up to three nights of hotel stay in Orlando from January 31 to February 2, 2024. Once CattleCon is over, they’ll make sure your grant reimbursement arrives within 30 days. For more information or to register, go to convention.ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Third-Quarter Grain Movements Low on Mississippi River Almost 60 percent of the Midwest grain harvest moves down the Mississippi River system to the U.S. Gulf region for export. In The Agricultural Marketing Service’s “Grain Transportation Report,” the agency says low water on the entire system led to draft and tow restrictions on barges, similar to what happened in fall 2022. “From the week ending on July 8 to the week ending on September 30, down-bound barged grain volumes totaled 3.9 million tons,” the report says. “That’s 35 percent lower than the third quarter last year and 53 percent lower than the five-year average.” Last year’s historic low water levels hit from late September through early December. This year’s low water levels began in June, about two months earlier than in 2022, and then continued for most of the third quarter this year. The most severe shipping restrictions are on the lower Mississippi River and Ohio River in Illinois. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy Herd Information Scholarship Applications Open The National Dairy Herd Information Association announced it is accepting applications for $1,500 scholarships. They’ll go to third- or fourth-year College of Veterinary Medicine students. Applicants must be enrolled at a college that’s accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education. To apply for a scholarship, applicants must submit a letter of application and two reference letters. The letter of application requires young people to submit information like their area of specialty/interest, academic background, career plans, and other important information. Scholarship committee members will evaluate applicants based on overall interest as a veterinarian planning to work in dairy, involvement in dairy medicine, extracurricular activities, and interest in dairy software and dairy records to improve dairy management and animal health. Applications are due on December 31. Specific application requirements are on the National DHIA website at dhia.org. Recipients will be announced at the 2024 National DHIA Annual Meeting next year.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 10, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest events from Israel and are likely wary about how others will respond. USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Grain markets may be cautious ahead of Thursday's WASDE report, due out at 11 a.m. CDT. Weather Cool air continues to be settled in across the Midwest on Tuesday. Morning frosts are occurring, and some isolated showers may develop in the Great Lakes. A big system will be moving through the West, which may be enough to start lifting a front northward through the Plains. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms may develop along it, especially Tuesday night across northern Missouri.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |
World Ag Productivity Not Increasing Fast Enough The Global Agricultural Productivity Report says the world’s agricultural productivity is consistently falling short of the target growth rate. Since 2011, productivity isn’t growing fast enough to hit the target growth rate required to sustainably meet global needs for agricultural outputs by 2050. The report says total factor productivity growth continues to be strong in China and South Asia. However, Sub-Saharan Africa and the U.S. show especially low TFP growth. From 2011-2021, global TFP grew at an average rate of 1.14 percent yearly. To sustainably meet the agricultural needs of a growing global population by 2050, the GAP report says the world must now aim for 1.91 percent average annual TFP growth. If producers are able to access proven, appropriate, productivity-enhancing tools, there can be significant improvements in closing the TFP growth gap. Lack of growth may result in over-reliance on unsustainable production practices and continued decline in TFP growth. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Unchanged in September The U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food Price Index edged lower to 121.5 in September, the lowest level since March 2021. That index was down slightly from 121.6 in August. Prices for vegetable oils were down 3.9 percent, a second decline due to lower prices across palm, sunflower, soy, and rapeseed oils. Dairy prices dropped 2.3 percent, a ninth consecutive fall. Meat costs dropped one percent, led by a drop in pork amid weak export demand from China and ample global export availabilities. Cereal costs increased one percent, including a 5.3 percent rise in coarse grain prices, led by a seven percent climb in maize prices. Also, sugar prices soared 9.8 percent to reach a high last seen in November 2010. The rise in sugar prices came from increasing concerns over a tighter global supply outlook in the upcoming 2023-2024 season and forecasts of increased production declines in Thailand and India. ********************************************************************************** Group of House Republicans Against EATS Act Sixteen members of the House of Representatives pushed back against the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. The group sent a letter to House Ag Chair Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA). Groups backing the letter included the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, National Dairy Producers Organization, and others. “We applaud the representatives for taking a stand against the EATS Act that would sell out American agriculture to China,” says Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action. “The Hinson-Marshall EATS Act is an assault on states’ rights that’s backed by Smithfield, a wholly owned Chinese corporation that continues to rake in billions of dollars by oppressing and exploiting American family farmers.” The groups say if the EATS Act becomes law, it would invalidate hundreds of state and local agriculture laws that support family farmers and hundreds of laws relating to food safety and invasive pest control. *********************************************************************************** 4-H Caucus Co-Chairs Applaud National 4-H Week Resolution The co-chairs of the Senate 4-H Caucus, Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and John Boozman (R-AR) applauded the Senate adoption of their resolution supporting the designation of “National 4-H Week.” The resolution was introduced by Stabenow and Boozman and supports the designation of October 1-7 as “National 4-H Week.” It recognizes the important role of 4-H in youth development and education and encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact the organization and members have made and continue to make. The organization empowers young people with the skills needed to lead for a lifetime. “As a former 4-H’er myself, I know that 4-H empowers young people to thrive in their communities and grow into future leaders through hands-on health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement projects,” Stabenow says. Boozman says, “I saw firsthand the tremendous impact 4-H has on young people while watching my three daughters get so much out of it.” *********************************************************************************** Food Export Midwest Welcomes FAS Administrator Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley toured the Food Export Midwest office in Chicago. “The Foreign Agricultural Services longstanding partnership with Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA-Northeast has helped regional U.S. ag producers enter international markets and introduce their world-class products to new consumers around the globe for nearly 40 years,” he says. “The collaboration between the groups was key to achieving record-breaking exports of U.S. agricultural products and commodities the past two years and puts us on target to have an outstanding 2023.” The FAS Market Access Program allocates funds to Food Export Midwest and Food Export Northeast to help promote American food and agricultural products across the globe. Through these collaborations, USDA helps ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises can take part in trade missions, trade shows, and other export promotion activities designed to help expand their businesses and increase their bottom lines. *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Near Average in September September brought mixed results for precipitation across the Missouri River Basin. Parts of Montana, North and South Dakota, and Nebraska received above-average rainfall, while the remainder of the upper basin and lower basin were below average. September runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 1.3 million acre-feet, 109 percent of the long-term average. The annual runoff forecast for the upper Missouri River Basin above Sioux City is 29.1-million-acre feet, 113 percent of average, and the same as last month’s forecast. “Rainfall was above average in portions of the Upper Missouri River Basin during September,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Runoff was above average or near average in every reach except Sioux City, which was below average. He also says soil moisture conditions have improved in parts of the basin, but many parts remain abnormally dry.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, Possible Frosts on the Watch List OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Oct. 8. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms. 1. Speaker uncertainty unnerves markets: There's a lot up in the air as the GOP-led House of Representatives tries to escape from its self-watered muck hole. One immediate effect is to make traders ever more skiddish. We'll have ongoing coverage of all the collateral damage around the leaderless House. 2. WASDE week: Thursday we'll cover the October Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Our preview of those reports will be out earlier in the week, as soon as market analyst expectations reports are in. WASDE coverage starts right after the 11 a.m. CDT report release, and we'll have updates throughout Thursday morning. As always, our free webinar on the reports, featuring DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, goes live at 12:30 p.m. You can register for that webinar, including a question and answer session at the end, by going here: 3. Weather systems raise frost concerns: Several cold fronts are moving across the U.S., some with high winds. The real concerns are frosts and freeze warnings, particularly in northern states, during the weekend and into this week. DTN forecasters say central states will have more cloud cover, and rainfall potential, which generally reduces the chance of frost. Cooler weather will continue in most areas through the week. 4. Trade issues gather interest: Recent corn sales to Mexico have been at high pace, we'll monitor how long that trend remains. There's still a longer-term concern that the potential ban on GMO corn -- which at the moment is aimed at food-grade (white) corn, could spread to No. 2 yellow if the country's political winds blow that way. In the meantime, China's demand remains high, despite the fact that U.S. sales to that country are lower than 2022. Just another sign of Brazil's big crop, which is pushing out sales of U.S. beans. 5. Economic reports to watch: Government offices, banks and bond markets are closed Monday for Columbus day. U.S. stock markets and futures markets are open, and DTN reports on those markets will continue through the day. However, USDA weekly grain export inspections (10 a.m. CDT) and Crop Progress reports (3:00 p.m.) will be delayed until Tuesday. On Wednesday, the U.S. Labor Department releases the producer price index for September at 7:30 a.m. Minutes from the Federal Reserve's September meeting are released at 2 p.m. On Thursday, U.S. weekly jobless claims are out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as the consumer price index for September and update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly report of energy inventories at 10 a.m. As noted above, October WASDE coverage begins at 11 a.m. Friday will see USDA's weekly export sales reports at 7:30 a.m. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index hits at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 9, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets On Monday, government offices, banks and bond markets are closed for Columbus Day/Indigenous People Day. U.S. stock and futures markets are open however, starting with their normal opening times on Sunday evening. Traders will check the latest weather forecasts, any harvest reports they can find and news over the weekend from Ukraine. USDA's reports of exports inspections and crop progress will be released Tuesday. Weather A burst of colder air moved through the country over the weekend and continues to spin around the Great Lakes, leading to some frosts in select spots of the Corn Belt Monday morning. Isolated showers may develop near the Great Lakes in the cooler air during the day, otherwise it will be quiet in most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 6, 2023 |
Turkey Prices Falling as Thanksgiving Approaches The cost to buy a Thanksgiving turkey could be lower this year, thanks to a drop in avian influenza cases and a recovery of the turkey population in the U.S. Farm Bureau economists analyzed turkey and egg prices and found that the average price for an eight-to-16-pound turkey typically served for Thanksgiving was $1.27 per pound lower than in August 2023. That’s 22 percent lower than the same time last year. “The status of HPAI is different now than it was just a year ago,” the economists say in a Market Intel Report. “Migratory birds are a major vector of this virus, which naturally makes spring and fall migration high-risk times.” June marked the first month with no detections since the outbreak began in February 2022. Egg production also saw a year-to-year increase, with 9.38 billion eggs produced in September 2023, a two percent increase from the same time last year. *********************************************************************************** Ukraine Exports Down Almost 25 Percent Grain exports dropped to 6.82 million metric tons so far from Ukraine in the 2023-2024 marketing year. The ag ministry says Ukraine shipped 8.99 million tons during the same period in the prior marketing year. The first three days of October saw 153,000 tons of exports compared to 297,000 tons a year ago. While the ministry didn’t give a reason for the drop, traders and agricultural unions say the country’s ports on the Black Sea are getting blocked. Russia is attacking ports along the Danube River too. The exported volumes include 3.4 million tons of wheat, 2.7 million tons of corn, and 625,000 tons of barley. The Black Sea grain deal negotiated by the U.N. and Turkey ended in July. Ukraine is expected to harvest a total of 79 million tons of grain and oilseeds in 2023, with the 2023-2024 exportable surplus totals expected to reach about 50 million tons. *********************************************************************************** More Crop Insurance Options for Organic, Specialty Crops The USDA is improving crop insurance options for specialty crop and organic producers, including rolling out new and expanded options based on feedback from America’s producers. “We’re committed to working with specialty crop and organic producers to develop options that fit their needs,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger. “We listened to what they said, and we’re proud of our efforts to deliver crop insurance options that meet the needs of producers as well as to share information on available crop options.” From 1990 to 2022, liabilities for insured specialty crops rose from $1 billion to more than $23 billion. Over the past 20 years, the number of individual specialty crops insured under the crop insurance program grew by 27 percent. Currently, there are over 70 individual specialty crops insured under the crop insurance options. New insurance options include the Transitional and Organic Grower Assistance Program and Tropical Storm Coverage. *********************************************************************************** Creelman Named 2024 World Ag Expo Chair The 2024 World Ag Expo season was kicked off recently by Show Chair Stan Creelman. The kickoff dinner in late September was attended by volunteers, staff, and invited guests. It was a chance to get together and set the tone for the coming show. “I’m honored to serve as the 2024 World Ag Expo Chairman,” says Creelman. “There have been so many great leaders before me, so it’s humbling to be here.” The theme is “The Best Farm Show on Dirt.” The annual show is produced by the International Agri-Center, a non-profit focused on year-round agricultural education. Entering its 57th year, World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor ag tradeshow in the world. In 2023, the Expo saw 108,223 people come from 49 states and 56 countries. With more than 1,200 exhibitors and 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, the event provides a platform for networking and education. *********************************************************************************** AFT Calling Attention to Farming on PBS American Farmland Trust will sponsor the new PBS national public series “America the Bountiful” with its premiere planned for spring 2024. The new project is a food, history, and travel series exploring the regional food traditions of America’s Heartland. It will help viewers learn more about culture and find inspiration in the chronicles of farmers, artisans, restauranteurs, and home cooks through the bounty they grow, produce, and eat. The show will shine a spotlight on the vibrant, culturally diverse, untold food stories and traditions hidden across America. “We’re focused on saving the land that sustains us all, and our new partnership with “America the Bountiful” will help us reach an important PBS audience of engaged and committed conservationists, farmers, and food lovers across the country,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (Pe-OHT-tee). “We’re excited to further educate people about the importance of farmland protection and sound agricultural practices.” *********************************************************************************** Washington Clean Fuel Standard Impressive in First Quarter The Washington Clean Fuel Standard is off to an impressive start with the release of its first-quarter results for the number of credits generated by alternative low-carbon fuels. These figures demonstrate the program’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, supporting local economies, and fostering a unified market for biomass-based diesel on the West Coast. Preliminary data shows that biodiesel and renewable diesel contributed around 22 percent of the credits indicating an approximate 1.2 percent blend rate. In comparison, when California first implemented its Low Carbon Fuel Standard, the state saw a blend rate of 0.4 percent for biodiesel and renewable diesel in the first year. Replicating California’s fuel standard, Washington adopted their own Clean Fuel Standard in 2021 in an effort to reduce carbon intensity in the transportation sector, the state’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. The program provides credits for low-carbon fuel alternatives that improve air quality and economic growth.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 6, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports on non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, another possible threat to interest rate concerns. Traders will continue to keep watch over the latest weather forecasts, any harvest reports and news from Ukraine where the war remains hard-fought. Weather A cold front continues to push through the eastern Midwest and Northeast Friday, with the southern end dragging through the Southeast. Both have some showers with them. Cold air is quickly filling in behind the front and produced widespread frosts and freezes Friday morning in the northwestern Plains. That will spread to most of the Central and Northern Plains for Friday night. In the cold air, isolated showers will develop across the Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 5, 2023 |
Weakening Crop Prices and High Production Costs Weigh on Farmer Sentiment Agricultural producers’ sentiment declined for the second month in a row during September. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell nine points to a reading of 106. Producers expressed concern about both their current situation as well as future prospects for their farms. The Current Conditions and Futures Expectations Indices both declined ten points in September, leaving the Current Conditions Index at a reading of 98 while the Future Expectations Index stood at 109. Weakening prices for major crops and ongoing concerns about high production costs and interest rates weighed on producers' minds this month. September's declines left all three indices below year-ago levels. Despite the weak sentiment reading, producers remain relatively optimistic about farmland values as expressed by both the short and long-term farmland values indices. The September survey also included several questions to learn more about cover crops. Just over half of the corn and soybean growers surveyed said they currently plant cover crops on a portion of their acreage. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Support for Underserved and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced $27.6 million in grants for underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters. The funding will provide training, outreach and technical assistance to help them own and operate successful farms, ranches, and forest lands. The funding is made through USDA's 2501 Program, administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. In 2023, the funding supports grants to 41 organizations in 27 states for their efforts to provide outreach and technical assistance to underserved and veteran farmers and ranchers. The 2501 Program was created through the 1990 Farm Bill to help underserved farmers, ranchers and foresters who have historically experienced limited access to USDA assistance. The 2014 Farm Bill expanded the program to include veterans. Grants are awarded to higher education institutions and nonprofit and community-based organizations to extend USDA's engagement efforts in underserved and veteran communities. Since 2010, the 2501 Program has provided more than $221 million to fund more than 657 projects. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Celebrates ASF Preparedness and Prevention USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is celebrating its many successful efforts to prevent African swine fever from reaching the United States. In honor of ASF Action Week, APHIS is recognizing the continuing efforts to prevent this deadly swine disease from reaching our shores. USDA's Dr. Rosemary Sifford says, “The United States has always had a system of interlocking safeguards in place to protect against foreign animal diseases, however the spread of ASF abroad made us review and strengthen our protections.” Some of the agency’s major accomplishments in these areas include enhancing existing safeguards, strengthening Customs and Border Protection partnerships, and further collaboration with states, industry and producers. APHIS continues to conduct surveillance for ASF in domestic and feral swine in the mainland United States. Since August 2021, APHIS has tested almost 6,000 samples from higher-risk domestic herds, and more than 26,000 case-compatible samples from veterinary diagnostic laboratories and production facilities. *********************************************************************************** Climate Center Develops Soil Temp Climatology Tool The Midwestern Regional Climate Center is launching a new tool in partnership with the Department of Agriculture's Midwest Climate Hub. The tool will provide soil temperature threshold information based on historical data from the last 30 years. The Soil Temperature Climatology Tool will be crucial for the agricultural industry to better identify benchmark dates for when specific agronomic activities, such as planting and applying nutrients, should take place. Data for the tool was sourced from the North American Regional Reanalysis, a model produced by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction that generates data for temperature, wind, moisture, soil and dozens of other parameters. Widhalm said using data from NARR was necessary because several areas across the Midwest lack substantial soil temperature measurements. These soil temperature estimates provide for an accurate historical perspective. While the Soil Temperature Climatology Tool was developed with the farming community in mind, the data this tool provides will be useful for several other production areas. Find the tool on the MRCC website. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy FARM Program Launches Enhanced Biosecurity Initiative The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program Wednesday announced the launch of FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced. The project is a new aspect of the FARM Biosecurity Program that includes training and an online database. FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced, includes an online database to develop and securely store dairy producers’ enhanced biosecurity plans and an online training that helps users write those plans. FARM has also developed a FARM Biosecurity – Enhanced Biosecurity Prep Guide and Database User Guide to complement these tools. Stronger, or enhanced, levels of biosecurity will be needed to protect cattle against the highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease found in two-thirds of the world. One FMD case in the United States could shut down movement across the nation of livestock and their products for at least 72 hours. To learn more about the FARM Program or access protocol templates and training aids, visit the FARM website: nationaldairyfarm.com. *********************************************************************************** Households That Earn Less Spend a Higher Share of Income on Food Households spend more money on food as their incomes rise, but the amount spent represents a smaller share of their overall budgets, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. When U.S. households were divided into five equal groups by household income, households in the lowest income group had an average after-tax income of $16,337 and spent an average of $5,090 on food, or about $98 a week, in 2022. Households in the highest income group, with an average after-tax income of $196,794, spent an average of $15,713 on food, about $302 a week. As households gain more disposable income, they often shift to more expensive food options. Food spending as a share of income rose across all income groups in 2022 as food prices increased faster than the overall inflation rate. In 2022, food spending represented 31.2 percent of the lowest groups’ income, 13.4 percent of income for the middle group, and 8.0 percent of income for the highest group.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 5, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for August and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather A cold front continues to push eastward through the Midwest and south through the Southern Plains and Delta on Thursday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms. A second front moved through the Northern Plains overnight and will continue to move in behind the primary front through Friday with much colder air coming in and some isolated showers of its own. Breezy winds are also expected.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 4, 2023 |
NPPC Wants Input on Swine Traceability U.S. pork producers tasked the National Pork Producers Council with leading an effort to update the existing swine traceability system. NPPC wants swine producers, veterinarians, cull swine and breeding operators, and show pig enthusiasts to comment on the draft standards by October 27. “Approximately one million pigs are in transit every day, giving diseases plenty of opportunities to spread,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president and Missouri pork producer. “With the growing threat of a foreign animal disease reaching the U.S., the need to address gaps in our existing traceability system is important for our farms and industry.” International markets would close immediately if a foreign animal disease were discovered in the U.S. “With $7.7 billion worth of pork being sold to international consumers, we need to assure our trading partners that we can identify disease-free animals and provide products from unaffected farms,” Hays adds. For more information, go to nppc.org/trace. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Helps Secure Passage of Animal Health Priority The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hailed the reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act. The act allows the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine to collect fees from animal health companies, which fund the agency’s review and approval process for new animal drugs. ADUFA ensures that FDA has an efficient system for authorizing new cattle medicines and diagnostic tools that keep livestock healthy and protect our safe, wholesome food supply. “Keeping our livestock healthy is on every cattle producer’s mind,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “NCBA made this reauthorization a top priority at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention, and I’m proud to see our team’s hard work pay off.” NCBA Chief Veterinarian Kathy Simmons says drug innovations are happening every day. “This ensures that FDA has the resources it needs to review these new technologies for safety and efficacy and to bring them to market for cattle producers,” Simmons says. *********************************************************************************** Wolle Takes Over as New NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOLL-lee), a Minnesota farmer, officially took over as the new president of the National Corn Growers Association. Wolle has several goals in mind, saying that reauthorizing a farm bill that reflects the priorities of corn growers will be a pressing concern. He also plans to push for more support of the Next Generation Fuels Act in the House and Senate while making ethanol a go-to biofuel in the aviation sector. “My theme as president is ‘Shaping the Future,’ and nothing shapes the future like effective advocacy,” Wolle says. “And no other group does advocacy as well as our state corn grower groups and the NCGA.” Wolle has a lot of experience in many issues important to corn growers. He's served on NCGA committees and the organization’s board, including as a board liaison to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Advisory Board. He’s also past president of the Minnesota Corn Growers. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for the 2024 ASI Annual Convention Registration is now open for the 2024 American Sheep Industry Association’s Annual Convention in Denver, Colorado, January 10-13. Early-bird registration rates are available through December 8. Online registrations must be finished by December 18. The ASI annual convention is the one time each year when all facets of the American sheep industry come together to discuss timely and important topics for sheep and wool producers, as well as those working in the meat, wool, and sheepskin sides of the overall industry. “We’re putting together an exciting program of events at a first-class venue,” says ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick. “We encourage anyone with an interest in the industry to register and attend as we work through the business of the association and educate leaders on important topics ranging from marketing and government policy to sheep health and genetics.” It’s also a great networking opportunity for farmers, ranchers, traders, and processors. *********************************************************************************** New Crop Insurance Program for Controlled Environments The USDA is announcing a new crop insurance program designed for agricultural producers using controlled environments in their operations. The new Controlled Environment Program from the Risk Management Agency is specifically for plants grown in fully enclosed environments and provides coverage against plant diseases subject to destruction orders. Available beginning in the 2024 crop year, the program provides a risk management resource for urban, specialty crop, and organic producers who often use controlled environments as a major part of their operations. “We are always looking to expand and improve the crop insurance resources we offer to producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Controlled environment agriculture is a quickly growing sector in the nation’s food production, and this new option is part of USDA’s broader effort to support urban agriculture and new and better markets for American producers.” The first sales closing date is December 1. For more information, go to rma.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Meeker Reelected to Lead Sorghum Association The National Sorghum Producers Board of Directors reelected officers and a new director at its annual board and budget meeting in August. Craig Meeker of Wellington, Kansas, will serve a second term as Chair, Amy France of Scotty City, Kansas, will continue to serve as vice chair, and Kody Carson of Olton, Texas, retains his position as past chair. “The executive leadership team has represented sorghum farmers exceptionally well this past year, and we look forward to following their leadership in 2024,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “As we near more concentrated farm bill debate and other issues pressing sorghum farmers and the industry, Craig, Amy, and Kody serve as a shining example of dedication and expertise, guiding us toward a more prosperous and sustainable future for sorghum in the United States.” He also says the sorghum industry is fortunate to have them at the industry’s helm during an important time.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 4, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. factory orders is due out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders will remain interested in the weather, harvest reports and news from Ukraine. Weather A strong cold front continues to move eastward through the country Wednesday. The northern end will move through the central Midwest, the southern end through the Southern Plains. Both areas will have scattered showers, but the Southern Plains could find some severe weather. A stronger burst of cold air will move into the Canadian Prairies, with its eyes on the U.S. for later in the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |
Corteva, Bayer, Supply Majority Corn, Cotton and Soybean Seeds Two companies—Corteva and Bayer—provided more than half the U.S. retail seed sales of corn, soybeans, and cotton in 2018–20, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. In recent decades, the U.S. crop seed industry has become more concentrated, with fewer and larger firms dominating seed supply. Today, four firms—Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta Group, and BASF—control the majority of crop seed and agricultural chemical sales. In 2015, six firms led global markets for seeds and agricultural chemicals. The concentration can be traced to the expansion of intellectual property rights to private companies for seed improvements in the 1970s and 1980s. As biotechnology advanced, companies created genetically modified seed varieties, such as herbicide-tolerant or insect-resistant corn, soybeans, and cotton. Mergers occurred between companies that produced and sold pesticides, seed treatments, crop seeds, and seed traits. As a result, the U.S. crop seed sector has become highly integrated with agricultural chemicals and more concentrated. *********************************************************************************** Farm Real Estate Market Holding Steady As combines roll into fields this fall, there is a renewed sense of optimism when looking at the real estate market. The current state of the ag land market is resilient, and the demand for high-quality farmland remains strong in the face of higher interest rates and lower commodity prices, according to Farmers National Company. However, the market will likely return to a more normal flow, evidenced by the slowdown of the appreciation rate of ag land, as well as the sales volume at Farmers National Company. Regional drought pressure across portions of the Corn Belt have also softened short-term demand for land. Areas highly impacted by the drought have seen seasonal pressure, with the lowest-quality farms impacted the most, while demand for higher-quality land has remained stable. The solid demand for ag properties from people interested in expanding their farm operations or investment opportunities seems to be driving the interest in high-quality cropland. *********************************************************************************** USDA Restricts Poultry Imports from France, EU The Department of Agriculture recently placed restrictions on the importation of poultry from France and the European Union. The restrictions, enacted by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, include live ducks, duck eggs, and unmitigated or untreated duck products from the APHIS-recognized European Poultry Trade Region, as well as Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, but excluding Great Britain. The restrictions are due to increased risk of introducing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza into the United States and were enacted October first. The restrictions are based on the World Organization for Animal Health's definition of poultry and result from France's decision to vaccinate commercial meat ducks against HPAI. France’s decision to vaccinate presents a risk of introducing HPAI into the United States. The United States does not currently allow the import of poultry from countries affected with HPAI or from flocks that have been vaccinated by HPAI. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Margin Coverage Provides Critical Support for Dairy Operations The August milk margin triggered the eighth consecutive payment for dairy producers who obtained Dairy Margin Coverage for the 2023 program year. August's income over feed margin is $6.46 per hundredweight, with projected DMC payments totaling $120 million. To date, including the projected August payments, dairy producers have received more than $1.2 billion in much-needed economic support for 2023, and margin forecasts indicate the likelihood of more to come before the end of the calendar year. USDA Farm Service Agency Administrator Zack Ducheneaux says, "While livestock and crop producers alike have been financially impacted by catastrophic natural disaster events, dairy producers' financial stressors have been compounded by significant market volatilities." DMC is a voluntary risk management program administered by USDA's Farm Service Agency that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Weaned Calf Risk Protection USDA recently announced Weaned Calf Risk Protection, a new insurance option for livestock producers in several states. This policy, offered by USDA's Risk Management Agency, offers Actual Production History coverage for beef cow-calf producers to ensure revenue from their spring calving operations. Weaned Calf Risk Protection will be available for the 2024 crop year. The policies insure producers against yield losses due to natural causes such as drought, excessive moisture, hail, wind, frost, insects, and disease. Coverage is provided for a decline in price and loss of yield due to a decrease of overall weaning weight, like revenue coverage offered for other crops. The program will be available in Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Texas, beginning with the January 31, 2024, sales closing date for the 2024 crop year. Coverage levels between 50 and 85 percent will be available, along with catastrophic coverage. Interested producers should contact their local RMA office. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Fuel Prices Decline Again For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline fell, posting a decline of 3.5 cents from a week ago to $3.77 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 2.8 cents from a month ago and 1.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.7 cents last week and is $4.52 per gallon, 36.2 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "we're likely to see nearly the entire country see gasoline prices trend lower in the week ahead." After bouncing around near and above $90 for the last few weeks, oil has not maintained its upward trend as renewed fears about further interest rate hikes lower demand prospects in the months ahead. Meanwhile, OPEC+ plans to hold the line on its current production levels at a key meeting this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports due out Tuesday. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather forecasts, harvest anecdotes and any news out of Ukraine. Weather A frontal boundary is moving into and through the Plains Tuesday, creating areas of showers and thunderstorms from north to south. Showers will move into the western Midwest overnight. A significant drop in temperatures will occur behind the front, but it continues to feel like summer ahead of it.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |
Corn and Soybean Ending Stocks Lower in 2023 The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Grain Stocks report that showed lower numbers for corn and soybeans. Old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1 totaled 1.36 billion bushels, one percent lower than the same time last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down two percent from September 1, 2022, and all wheat stocks were up slightly from a year earlier. Of the total corn stocks, 605 million bushels were stored on farms, 19 percent higher than last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2023, totaled 268 million bushels, two percent lower than last year. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 72 million bushels, up 14 percent from a year ago. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.78 billion bushels, up slightly from September 1, 2022. On-farm stocks were one percent higher than in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Issues 2023 Small Grains Summary All wheat production totaled 1.81 billion bushels in 2023, up ten percent from last year’s total of 1.65 billion bushels. The harvested area totaled 37.3 million acres, up five percent from the previous year. The U.S. yield was estimated at 48.6 bushels an acre, 2.1 bushels higher than in the prior year. The levels of production and changes from 2022 by type were winter wheat, at 1.25 billion bushels, was up 13 percent from last year. Other spring wheat totaled 505 million bushels, up five percent, and Durum wheat production hit 59.3 million bushels, seven percent lower than the previous year. Oat production was estimated at 57 million bushels, one percent lower than 2022 totals. USDA estimated the yield at 68.6 bushels an acre, 3.8 bushels higher than the previous year. Barley production hit 185 million bushels; six percent higher than in 2022, and yield was 72.4 bushels an acre. *********************************************************************************** Drought Monitor Shows Improvements After Rainfall Western parts of the Midwest were inundated with heavy rains while the eastern part received little to no moisture. Large areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin and parts of Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri all received two inches or more. Abnormal dryness and moderate to exceptional drought were reduced in these areas. Meanwhile, drought continued expanding over Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, and in parts of Missouri, Michigan, and Illinois. Northern and eastern parts of the High Plains region received as much as two inches of rainfall, while parts of Wyoming and Kansas stayed dry. Drought conditions contracted in North and South Dakota and Nebraska. In the South, bands of heavy rain fell in eastern Oklahoma, western Arkansas, and the Louisiana and Texas borders with Arkansas, with some amounts topping five inches of rain. But the western half of Texas and Oklahoma, along with much of Mississippi and Tennessee received little to no rain. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Will Require Crop Insurance Transparency Looking for less secrecy in the Crop Insurance Program, representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced the Crop Insurance Transparency Act. If passed, it would require USDA to publicly disclose the names of producers and insurers who receive federal crop insurance subsidies and the amount received. “At a time when federal crop insurance payments are at an all-time high, it is an abject failure that a majority of our small farmers and ranchers do not even have access to the crop insurance safety net,” says Blumenauer. “Reform begins with accurate and transparent information.” Norman adds that one-third of all crop insurance subsidies don’t make it to farmers, but instead go to massive insurance companies. “Millionaires and billionaires are likely receiving crop insurance subsidies at a time when most farmers are struggling to get by,” says Scott Faber of the Environmental Working Group. “It’s time to lift this veil of secrecy.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Rises Slightly The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2023, was 74.3 million head. That was slightly higher than September 1, 2022, and up two percent from June of this year. The breeding inventory was 6.08 million head, down one percent from last year and one percent from the previous quarter. The market hog inventory was 68.2 million head, slightly higher than last year and two percent higher than the previous quarter. The June-August pig crop was 34.2 million head, slightly higher than in 2022. Sows farrowing during the period totaled 2.95 million head, down four percent from 2022. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between September and November, down five percent from the actual farrowings during the same period a year earlier. Intended farrowings between December 2023 and February 2024 total 2.91 million sows, down one percent from the same period a year ago. *********************************************************************************** State Attorneys General Against the Eats Act A coalition of 16 State Attorneys General sent letters to Congressional leadership regarding the EATS Act. Sponsors of the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act have positioned the bill as a regulatory solution, but it will undermine states’ rights to regulate agriculture within their local jurisdictions and nullify numerous state and local laws that already exist. Those hundreds of laws that would be invalidated support family beef, dairy, egg, and pork producers, as well as hundreds of laws related to food safety and invasive pest control. The letter states that, “For over 200 years, state and local governments have been responsible for ensuring that there is a safe and healthy food supply for their consumers and that locally sold farm products are governed by locally accountable elected officials.” Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action say the Act would up-end the crucial balance between state and federal authority.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Government Shutdown Avoided, Record-Breaking Heat May Turn to Frost Later in Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Oct. 1. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain trade reaction: How will traders respond to the weekend political moves to avoid government shutdown for now with a 45-day funding bill that President Joe Biden signed late Saturday? That will be a key focus for the week, starting with grain comments available to DTN subscribers Sunday night. 2. Weather messes with harvest: Some areas of the Corn Belt had record heat during the weekend. However, if you caught the Sept. 29 Ag Weather Forum, you know DTN's weather models all did an about-face mid-afternoon. That ushers in a strong cold front expected Oct. 3-6, which will produce showers and thunderstorms up and down the Plains to the Mississippi Valley. There may even be frost by the end of the week. I 3. Low rivers still an issue: Despite the potential for rains, we're continuing to track low river levels in the Mississippi Valley. 4. Digging into the details: DTN's Clayton will dig deeper into what was decided by the government during the weekend and assess what are the consequences. What is being funded, what still hasn't been decided, and what will this mean for farmers and ranchers? 5. Reports this week: Here's what is tentatively expected to come out this week, based on the government shutdown being avoided. We'll update if we hear more. Monday, International manufacturing indices reports trickle in overnight, joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit at 10 a.m., followed by NASS Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and weekly Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, U.S. new home sales are released at 7:30 a.m., followed by U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Wednesday, we'll watch U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m., with the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday USDA's weekly export sales are due at 7:30 a.m., as is weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for August and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Friday we hope to see the U.S. Labor Department reports on non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate for September at 7:30 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and have likely heard the deadline for a possible U.S. government shutdown has been moved to November 17. International reports of manufacturing indices will trickle in overnight and be joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by NASS's Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather Hot temperatures east of the Rockies will be near daily records in many locations. Some isolated showers may develop in the Plains, otherwise the country will be rather dry as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |
USDA Sees Record Demand to Advance Clean Energy in Rural America The Department of Agriculture reports record demand for funding to advance affordable and reliable clean energy in rural America. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The Inflation Reduction Act is driving investment in rural communities across the nation, particularly in places that for too long have been left out or left behind.” The Inflation Reduction Act made nearly $13 billion available to support clean energy infrastructure for rural America through USDA Rural Development programs. In May, USDA made $9.7 billion available under the New Empowering Rural America program for member-owned rural electric cooperatives, and received 157 proposals from nearly every state. Also in May, USDA made $1 billion available under Powering Affordable Clean Energy to fund new clean energy projects and energy storage in rural America. So far, USDA has received requests for more than $7.8 billion through letters of interest. USDA has also seen substantially more interest than funding available under the Inflation Reduction Act in USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. *********************************************************************************** Animal Rights Groups Welcomes Bill to End Milk Mandate Legislation introduced recently would give kids a nutritionally equivalent, plant-based milk option to cow’s milk in the National School Lunch Program. Welcomed by animal rights groups, the Addressing Digestive Distress in Stomachs of Our Youth Act requires public schools to offer a nutritionally equivalent soy milk option and allows USDA to reimburse schools for those purchases, just as it does for cow's milk. Animal Wellness Action President Wayne Pacelle says, “The federal government is overreaching by subsidizing and promoting milk beyond its natural appeal to consumers.” Under law, USDA provides a reimbursement of $1 billion for cow’s milk to public schools across the country, placing a carton of milk on every tray. Earlier this year, the National Milk Producers Federation responded, “The latest ploy among the vegan, animal rights and plant-based lobbies is to suddenly paint themselves as social justice crusaders, demanding that their nutritionally inferior products should now be treated as legitimate milk substitutes in federal nutrition programs.” *********************************************************************************** Federal Complaint Alleges Environmental Violations by eBay The Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Justice this week filed a complaint against eBay. The complaint alleges eBay allows the unlawful selling of pesticides, violating the Clean Air Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, commonly known as FIFRA and the Toxic Substances Control Act. FIFRA prohibits the unlawful distribution or sale of unregistered, misbranded, and restricted-use pesticides, and authorizes EPA to issue Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Orders. The complaint also alleges that eBay has unlawfully distributed or sold at least 23,000 such products, and that some of those sales directly violate a stop sale order issued to eBay in 2020 and amended in 2021. Examples of these pesticides include a high-toxicity insecticide banned in the U.S., restricted-use pesticides that only certified applicators may apply, and products fraudulently claiming to protect users against SARS-CoV-2. The complaint also targets aftermarket parts that defeat motor vehicle emission controls. *********************************************************************************** 2022 Potato Production Down 3 Percent The Department of Agriculture this week released the 2022 Potatoes Summary. The report presents potato estimates of acreage, yield per acre, production, farm disposition, season average price, value, and utilization of sales, including processing for the 2022 season. All potato production in 2022 totaled 399 million hundred-weight, down three percent from the 2021 crop. Harvested area, at 911,400 acres, was down one percent from 2021. The average yield of 438 hundred-weight per acre was down six hundred-weight from the previous year. The value of all potatoes sold in 2022, at $4.80 billion, increased 23 percent from the previous year. The average price, at $12.90 per hundred-weight, was up $2.70 from 2021. The quantity of potatoes sold from the 2022 crop totaled 373 million hundred-weight, down three percent from 2021. Potatoes used for chips increased three percent, while frozen French fries utilization dropped one percent, and dehydrated potatoes fell seven percent. *********************************************************************************** Turkey Growers Increase Flock Size While U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm to celebrate market access to India, USDA reported increased turkey production this week. The September USDA Turkey Raised report indicated a four percent increase from 2022. Turkeys Raised in the United States during 2023 is forecasted at 219 million this month. The top six states account for 68 percent of the turkeys produced in the United States during 2023. The largest turkey-producing state is Minnesota, at 39.0 million turkeys, up five percent from the previous year. North Carolina produced 29.0 million turkeys, up four percent from a year ago. Arkansas produced 27.5 million turkeys, up six percent from last year. Indiana produced 20.0 million turkeys, unchanged from last year. Missouri produced 18.0 million turkeys, up six percent from last year, and Virginia is up one percent from the previous year at 15.4 million turkeys. Turkeys raised preliminary estimates include young turkeys intended for meat production and breeder turkeys reaching maturity during the calendar year. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Lower Income Countries Spend More on Food Consumers in low-income countries spend a greater proportion of their budgets on food than those in higher-income countries, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. As incomes rise with economic development and urbanization, the share of income spent on food tends to fall, while discretionary spending on household goods, education, medical services, and recreation tends to increase. In low-income African and South Asian countries, spending on food accounted for more than 40 percent of total consumer expenditures in 2022. This contrasts with higher-income economies in Latin America, including Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico, where an average of about 22.5 percent of budgets was spent on food. In emerging markets such as Brazil, India, and China, where incomes are rising, the share of discretionary income spent on nonfood categories has increased. In higher-income economies, including the United States, Switzerland, Australia, and Canada, disposable incomes remain larger, and the food share of consumer expenditures is smaller than those in countries where urban communities are still expanding.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending. USDA's September 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary are both due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A frontal boundary moved into the Northern Plains Thursday and will largely stall there into Minnesota for Friday. Pockets of scattered showers and thunderstorms will be possible in these areas. Some isolated showers may pop up farther south across the Plains as well. Temperatures south and east of the front will continue to climb higher.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |
Americans Want Their Food Produced Domestically A new survey from the American Sugar Alliance shows American voters recognize the importance of agriculture. The poll says they want Congress to prioritize American farmers in the next farm bill, provide them with a strong and reliable safety net, and protect them from foreign businesses that could displace American farmers and workers and disrupt our national food supply. Almost two-thirds of the respondents in the survey say the nation’s food supply should be less dependent on foreign suppliers. The results cut across political parties and geographical regions. As far as where America should buy its sugar from, eight times as many voters preferred American-made sugar compared to those who preferred imported sugar. “Clearly, voters value domestic sugar production and don’t want to depend on foreign suppliers for an essential food ingredient,” says Cassie Blaedow, Chair of the American Sugar Alliance. Approximately 11,000 family farmers raise sugar beets and sugarcane. *********************************************************************************** USDA Will Begin Issuing $1.75 Billion in Emergency Relief The USDA began issuing more than $1.75 billion in emergency relief payments to eligible farmers and livestock producers. These much-needed payments are helping farmers and ranchers recover following natural disasters in 2020, 2021, and 2022. “USDA provides substantial economic support for America’s farmers and ranchers through its critical farm payments,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These payments reflect the incredible and cumulative financial hits brought on by devastating natural disasters which agricultural producers nationwide have endured while fulfilling their commitment to produce our food, fiber, and fuel.” He also says the additional assistance offsets tremendous losses and is a valuable investment not only for farmers and ranchers but also for the economic success of rural and urban communities and our nation’s food security for generations to come. This week, the Farm Service Agency will issue more than $581 million in 2021 and 2022 drought and wildfire emergency relief to eligible ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Merck Awards Scholarships to Future Veterinarians Merck Animal Health announced it has awarded $90,000 in scholarships to 18 bovine veterinary students in partnership with the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. Scholarship recipients were selected based on their academic achievements, career goals, work experience, and interest in veterinary medicine. The scholarships were recently given out during the 2023 AABP Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with each winner getting $5,000. “Merck Animal Health is proud to honor these veterinary students who represent the future of our field and the cattle industry,” says Justin Welsh, DVM and executive director of livestock technical services for Merck. Fred Gingrich, DVM and executive director of AABP, says he’s very excited about what the future holds for these outstanding students and the talents and skills they will bring to the veterinary profession as they embark on their careers. “We are incredibly grateful to Merck Animal Health for its continued partnership and support,” Gingrich says. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Helps Organic Producers Meet Growing Demand New legislation was introduced in both chambers of Congress to give organic producers the tools they need to increase their capacity, reach new markets, and grow their businesses. The Organic Market Development Act would codify and increase support for a newly announced USDA program that aims to solve supply chain gaps for the organic market through grants to farmers and businesses as demand increases for organic products. In 2021, U.S. sales of organic food products reached $52 billion, nearly doubling the sales done in 2010. Senate bill sponsor Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) says the legislation will build on the success of the Organic Market Development Grant Program and allow more producers to access these resources and tools to grow America’s agriculture economy. The legislation builds on the initial $75 million annual authorization by maintaining the base CCC investment and adds $25 million in appropriations for 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Campaign Call for a Level Playing Field The National Corn Growers Association launched a grassroots advocacy campaign to encourage the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to provide a level playing field for biofuels like ethanol. The organization wants corn growers and advocates to make their voices heard by submitting comments to the agency. The campaign comes after NHTSA proposed hiking the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standard, referred to as the CAFÉ Standard. It regulates how much fuel a vehicle consumes per mile. The agency’s current proposal would move the fleet average for small cars and light trucks from 44 to 58 miles per gallon by 2032. NCGA President Tom Haag says the proposal sets an unattainable goal and concerning precedent. “Auto manufacturers will be forced to overlook viable solutions in high-octane biofuels like corn ethanol to meet these standards,” Haag says. “This would minimize the role biofuels play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving consumers money.” *********************************************************************************** Missouri Farmland Sale Sets New Record A Missouri farmland auction broke the previous record set in Iowa as 115 acres of land sold for a record amount. The Missouri farmland sale smashed the previous record of $30,000 an acre set in Iowa. The bill of sale from Dyer and Fenner Auctioneers said the record sale happened last week in Saline County, Missouri. Two farmers got into a bidding war, and, in only 15 minutes, the 115 acres set the new record at $34,800 per acre. The buyer wasn’t an investor. The winning bid came from a farmer named Jeff Baxter from neighboring Carroll County, Missouri. Area farmers say the competing bidder was a farmer whose home farm touches the land that was up for sale. Farm Journal’s AgWeb says the bidding started at $15,000 an acre for the piece of ground that’s been in the same family for four generations, and the bids climbed very fast.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for September 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Weather An upper-level trough that has been meandering through the Midwest all week continues across eastern regions with areas of showers on Thursday. A new front has moved into the Northern Plains and will be the focus for areas of showers and thunderstorms going into next week. Above-normal temperatures continue to build where showers and clouds do not occur.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |
USDA Expands Access to School Breakfast and Lunch The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced it is giving an estimated 3,000 more school districts in high-need areas the option to serve breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost. The expansion is possible through the Community Eligibility provision, commonly known as CEP. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the effort "Will decrease childhood hunger, improve child health and student readiness, and put our nation on the path to better nutrition and wellness." CEP is a simplified meal service option that allows schools to provide meals at no cost to all students without requiring families to apply for free and reduced-price meals. School districts receive federal funding based on a formula using existing data, and local or state funds must fill any gap between program costs and federal support. Previously, at least 40 percent of students had to live in households participating in federal assistance programs for a school or school district to be eligible for CEP. This final rule lowers that threshold from 40 percent to 25 percent. *********************************************************************************** Report: Organic Strawberries Bring Higher Prices New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows organic strawberries offer growers higher prices than conventional strawberries. Fresh strawberry prices tend to exhibit strong seasonal trends partly because of their relatively short shelf life. In the United States, grower prices for fresh organic strawberries move in tandem with conventional strawberry prices throughout the year while also typically running 40 to 50 percent higher than conventional prices—this difference is known as a price premium. In late fall and throughout winter, supply wanes even though demand remains robust. During this period, grower price premiums for organic strawberries rise above typical levels. From 2018–2022, the highest average price premium was in January, when organic strawberry prices were 74 to 88 percent higher than conventional strawberries. Price premiums in July averaged 18 to 24 percent. Since 2008, domestic organic strawberry acreage has tripled in California, which provides about 75 percent of U.S. organic strawberry production. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek Action on Wildland Firefighter Pay Reform A group of Senators called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to consider wildland firefighter pay reforms. Led by Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet, the lawmakers seek advancement of permanent, comprehensive pay reform for the country's wildland firefighters as temporary pay increases are set to end. Short-term pay increases for over 22,000 federal firefighters will run out this week unless Congress takes action. In a letter, the senators note the increasing threat posed by wildfires in the U.S. and issues that have contributed to firefighter recruitment and retention challenges in recent years – including low pay, unaffordable housing, and strain on their mental health. The lawmakers say, “Firefighters deserve fair pay, support for their mental and physical health, and time to recover from their dangerous work.” They conclude by urging Schumer to move forward on permanent, comprehensive pay reform in line with the President’s Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Details Cold Storage Food Supply USDA’s September Cold Storage Report shows lower dairy and meat supplies and seasonally higher frozen fruit and vegetables. The report released this week shows total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on August 31, 2023, were down slightly from the previous month but up one percent from August 31, 2022. Butter stocks were down 12 percent from last month but up four percent from a year ago. Total frozen poultry supplies were down slightly from the previous month, but up one percent from a year ago, and total pounds of turkey in freezers were up two percent from last month. Frozen fruit stocks were up six percent from last month but down two percent from a year ago, while frozen vegetable stocks were up 18 percent from last month and five percent from a year ago. Finally, red meat supplies in freezers were up one percent from the previous month but down 15 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USTR Visits North Carolina Turkey Farm U.S. Trade Representative Kathrine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm Tuesday, celebrating recent market access wins for U.S. agriculture in India. Tai joined North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper for a tour of North Carolina State University’s Talley Turkey Education Unit, and participated in a roundtable event with turkey producers. Earlier this month, the U.S. and India reduced tariffs on frozen turkey, frozen duck, fresh blueberries and cranberries, frozen blueberries and cranberries, dried blueberries and cranberries, and processed blueberries and cranberries. The effort will give North Carolina farmers and agriculture producers greater opportunity to reach India’s large, untapped market for turkey exports. North Carolina is one of the United States’ largest exporters of turkey, accounting for about ten percent of U.S. turkey exports to the world each year. From 2017 through 2022, North Carolina averaged $50 million in annual exports of turkey products to the world. From 2017 through 2022, the U.S. exported over $3.1 billion of turkey to the world. *********************************************************************************** NOAA Providing Funding for Tribal Lands Drought Resiliency The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration this week announced funding to support drought resilience on tribal lands. NOAA is providing the funding to support projects that will help tribal nations address current and future drought risk. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo says, “Enhancing drought resilience with tribal partners in the West is a crucial step in building a Climate-Ready Nation.” Proposals may request funding of up to $700,000 total to be disseminated in the first year and expended over three years in the form of cooperative agreements. A total of 3-5 projects may be funded depending on the project budget requested. Applications should be developed by or in full partnership with tribal nations to fund the implementation of activities that address current and future drought risk in the context of a changing climate on tribal lands across the Western U.S. The NOAA Climate Program Office’s National Integrated Drought Information System anticipates a funding allocation of approximately $2 million, pending the availability of funds in Fiscal Year 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report of U.S. durable goods orders is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and any news from the Black Sea region. Weather An upper-level low pressure system continues to meander slowly through the Eastern Corn Belt Wednesday, with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some pockets of heavy rain have developed in the rainfall over the last few days, which continues Wednesday as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |
Bill Introduced to Protect Farmland Used for Renewable Energy Senators Tammy Baldwin and Chuck Grassley Monday introduced the Protecting Future Farmland Act. The new legislation supports farmers’ land stewardship efforts as many choose to deploy solar energy on their land. The legislation will ensure that federal investment in rural energy projects prioritizes both land stewardship and responsible deployment of renewable energy to protect America’s farmlands for future cultivation. Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, says, “we need to support our farmers’ land stewardship efforts and help them protect the farmland that is critical to the future of our rural economies and national food security.” Grassley, an Iowa Republican, adds, “We must be certain that embracing solar doesn’t damage our most valuable commodity: our rich Iowa soil.” Agricultural landowners are increasingly interested in using their land for solar energy production. About 83 percent of new solar projects are installed on farmland and ranchland, with almost 50 percent placed on the most productive, versatile, and resilient land. *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Boost Oversight of Foreign Ag Purchases Advances The U.S. House Committee on Financial Services Last week advanced a bill supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association that strengthens oversight of foreign agricultural purchases. Introduced by Representative Frank Lucas, an Oklahoma Republican, the Agricultural Security Risk Review Act would add the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. The committee reviews the national security impact of foreign investments in the United States. NCBA’s Kent Bacus says the effort “Would provide a critical voice for American farmers and ranchers, and ensure that the federal government does not overlook agriculture's role in national security." The Secretary of the Treasury chairs the committee with members from the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of Energy, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Office of Science and Technology Policy. The legislation passed in committee and now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Group Applauds Hawley’s Anti-Monopoly Bill Senator Josh Hawley last week introduced the Strengthening Antitrust Enforcement for Meatpacking Act. The Missouri Republican’s bill would empower antitrust enforcers to break up giant meatpacking and poultry monopolies. R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard said his group “applauds Senator Hawley’s novel approach to addressing the untenable market concentrations faced by America’s cattle and sheep producers.” The bill would establish two thresholds for determining the market concentration in the meatpacking industry. Using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, or HHI, which is a measure of market concentration presently employed by the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, the bill would prohibit a merger or acquisition by a meatpacker if the HHI would exceed 1,800, or if a proposed merger or acquisition would increase the meatpacker’s current HHI Index by 100. The current guidelines consider an HHI below 1,500 to be unconcentrated, an HHI between 1,500 and 2,500 to be moderately concentrated, and an HHI above 2,500 to be a highly concentrated market. The Hawley bill would prohibit mergers currently considered moderately concentrated. *********************************************************************************** USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission Delegation Arrives in Chile A U.S. agribusiness delegation arrived in Santiago, Chile, Monday, led by USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor. The delegation includes representatives from the U.S. food and agriculture sectors and state departments of agriculture. Taylor says, “Customers in Chile are especially interested in U.S. consumer-oriented products, such as dairy, beef, poultry, pork, condiments and distilled spirits, providing U.S. exporters with many new and exciting opportunities.” While in Santiago, the members of the delegation are looking to establish business relationships and explore opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the region. Buyers from Chile, as well as from neighboring Ecuador and Peru, have been invited to participate and meet with U.S. exporters. In addition, this trade mission will allow participants to learn about production and marketing practices throughout South America. Chile is among the top three markets in South America for U.S. agricultural and related products, and the second-largest market in South America for consumer-oriented agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** K-State Launches Next-Gen Institute for Digital Agriculture Kansas State University is setting the stage as a national leader in digital agriculture with the launch of the interdisciplinary Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics. The institute is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods to enhance agriculture. Work done at the institute will include developing and integrating analytical methods and digital technologies -- like sensors, automation and robots -- that enhance food production and inform decision making for sustainable and resilient systems. K-State President Richard Linton says, “Kansas State University is working across disciplines to solve global agricultural problems and build the economic prosperity of Kansas and one of our state's key industries." The culmination of this collaborative effort will ensure that K-State is positioned as a leader in digital agriculture with an effective foundation to develop programs that sustain the long-term competitiveness of agriculture in Kansas. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Diesel and Gas Prices Decline For the first time in two weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 3.1 cents from a week ago to $3.80 per. The national average is up 1.3 cents from a month ago and 13.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price decreased 1.4 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 38.0 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a mostly quiet week for the national average price of gasoline," but adds, "New and continued refinery issues in some regions have had an oversized effect on gas prices in some states, especially in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada." With some worry over the Fed's statements last week hinting that more interest rate hikes could be coming, oil prices saw some profit-taking last week, falling after Jerome Powell's latest statements. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an increase of 2.4 percent last week, bouncing back after several poor readings.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and scour contacts for harvest anecdotes. Weather An upper-level cutoff low continues to meander slowly through the Midwest Tuesday, producing scattered showers. Outside of some showers near the Gulf Coast and in the Mid-Atlantic, it should be dry east of the Rockies. A large trough continues to bring rainfall into the Pacific Northwest, which will slowly progress deeper into the country later in the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |
Farmers Take EATS Act Opposition to Capitol Hill American farmers and ranchers were in Washington, D.C., September 17-22, to state their opposition to the EATS Act. The Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act was introduced by Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS). Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, and several others said the act would nullify more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Those laws are in place to protect communities from a number of issues like invasive pests and livestock diseases. The absence of local regulations would create an environment in which foreign conglomerates could rapidly expand across all 50 states. “If EATS is included in the upcoming farm bill, it will mark the end of American family farming as we know it,” says Deborah Mills, a director with the Organization for Competitive Markets. The organizations also advocated for the inclusion of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants to Help Solve Workforce Challenges Employers can begin applying for a pilot program designed to improve the resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain by addressing workforce challenges faced by farmers and ranchers. The USDA and other federal agencies are announcing up to $65 million in grants available for the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program. The program will help address workforce needs in agriculture, promote a safe and healthy working environment for farmworkers, and aims to support expanding lawful migration pathways for workers through expanding the H-2A Visa Program. “Our country is facing growing agriculture workforce challenges that jeopardize our farmers’ ability to be competitive, threaten the resiliency, abundance, and safety of our food system, and have repercussions for the overall economy,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The program will benefit producers and farmworkers.” Program applications must be received by November 28. More information about the application process is available at ams.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Pushes Back Against EPA Board The National Corn Growers Association pushed back against commentary made by a science advisory board with the Environmental Protection Agency. The Board questioned the effectiveness of ethanol in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. “There is no shortage of studies on the environmental benefits of corn ethanol,” NCGA CEO Neil Caskey told the advisory board members. “The Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has conducted extensive research on the matter and concluded that corn ethanol has reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 544 million metric tons from 2005-2019.” He also says the feedstock’s carbon intensity is 44 percent lower than that of petroleum gasoline. The testimony comes after the board provided commentary to the EPA administrator raising doubts about the effectiveness of ethanol. Caskey also responded to assertions that ethanol production impacts land use, noting that data shows as corn production has risen, land used to grow corn has not. *********************************************************************************** AFT Announces Farmers’ Market Celebration Contest Winners American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition announced the winners of the 15th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration. It’s an annual event honoring the role of farmers’ markets. More than 2,000 markets nationwide participated in the 2023 celebration with over ten million supporters engaged in voting. “America’s farmers markets serve communities across the nation, providing access to fresh, healthy food and building farmers’ opportunity,” says David Thayer, AFT’s director of marketing and digital outreach. “It’s a pleasure hosting the Celebration and witnessing the incredible national support for local food.” The first-place winner was the farmers’ market in North Tonawanda, New York, which was awarded $5,000. Since 2008, the celebration has highlighted the important role farmers’ markets play in American communities and the larger U.S. food system. Food markets are on the leading edge of educating consumers about where food comes from and reinforcing AFT’s message of No Farms, No Food. *********************************************************************************** Increasing Competition in Global Pork Trade A recent Rabobank report says competition between major exporters has intensified in the global pork trade, meaning the competitive landscape will continue shifting in the years ahead. Low-cost producers like Brazil and the U.S. will likely have an advantage, while Europe’s position is expected to weaken following increasing market and regulatory requirements concerning animal welfare and sustainability. Countries adopting effective disease mitigation strategies may secure a competitive edge as disease pressure looms over the pig sector. Meanwhile, global pork consumption is poised for growth until 2030, creating ongoing opportunities for global pork trade. Rabobank says disease pressure will continue creating challenges in the pork industry, though the impact will be contingent on trade policies and the success of mitigation efforts. Pork trade will persist despite China’s pork production rebounding to pre-ASF levels in 2022, achieving 95 percent self-sufficiency. The report also says despite disruptions, global pork consumption will grow through 2030. *********************************************************************************** World Grain Conference Brings Buyers and Sellers Together The U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference is a cornerstone buyers conference in Southeast Asia. The event is hosted by the U.S. Grains Council, the U.S. Soybean Export Council, and the U.S. Wheat Associates and has actively served the region for 20 years. This year’s event addressed the pressing global challenges of food security, sustainability, and innovation. “We continue to strive to keep this conference fresh and relevant,” says Caleb Wurth, USGC Southeast Asia and Oceania regional director. “We decided to bring an even more diverse group of customers to our member exporters than ever before, and broader Asian participation was well received by our customers.” ACC is an opportunity for the Council’s U.S. exporter members to market their products and engage with buyers from around the globe in one spot. Along with buyer delegations from the Southeast Asia region, the Council invited constituencies from China, South Korea, South Asia, and Taiwan.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Selection, DC Dramas, Receding Rivers Lead News Coverage OMAHA (DTN) -- Fall is officially here, and with that we turn attention to ending fiscal years, grain reports and harvest news. Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 24. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain Stocks Friday: Grain markets will focus on Friday when the USDA Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary reports hit at 11 a.m. CDT. We'll have our normal immediate coverage, followed by commentary updates throughout the hour. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will head up a live webinar on the reports at 12:30 p.m. 2. D.C. budget chaos: We continue to watch the fallout of the Congressional failure to put together a budget or a continuing resolution to keep government doors open. In addition to our news team's coverage, DTN subscribers can keep up with the latest news in their streaming AP News section and in our Ag News segments.. 3. Harvest break and rivers drop: The weekend's waves of rainfall should diminish early in the week as the current system slowly fades away to the east or south. Rain is largely too late to benefit summer crops and will delay early wheat harvest plans in some areas. Midwest rains will give some farmers a brief break for some in-season combine and harvest equipment maintenance and to finish seed orders. Dry soils will quickly suck up that moisture, though, meaning the rains won't hold up harvest for long. The past week's Drought Monitor Map update showed increasing dry conditions across most of the country, including wetter areas of East and South. We're watching how lack of inflow will affect the Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi river systems as fall transportation picks up. 4. Speaking of seed buying: We'll continue to post stories from the September Progressive Farmer issue featuring the latest on seeds and related technology. Watch for those in our Top Stories segments and blogs. 5.. Reports fill this week ... and then?: Government economic reports this week should flow as normal. Beyond Sept. 30, the chances are murkier as a government shutdown would cut the cord on such updates. Monday's market-influencing reports include USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll watch for harvest progress of the past week and how much rains will slow that down. Tuesday sees U.S. new home sales report at 7:30 a.m. and a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, we'll watch the U.S. durable goods orders, which hits at 7:30 a.m., and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Thursday morning is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, the weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all hitting at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for Sept. 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Then, Friday is the reveal of the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index, at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. personal income and consumer spending reports hit at the same time, followed by USDA's Sept. 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary, which as noted above, are out 11 a.m. CDT.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking rainfall amounts and the latest weather forecasts. News from the Black Sea may also play a part as Ukraine appears to be getting bolder with its attacks. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A cutoff low from the weekend is stuck in the Midwest and will be producing some areas of showers Monday. Most places will see little or no rainfall, but a couple of lucky pockets could see some meaningful rain in and around Wisconsin.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |
NPPC Past President Testifies on Reforming GSP National Pork Producers Council Past President Randy Spronk testified at a House subcommittee hearing on reforming the generalized system of preferences to safeguard American supply chains and combat China. The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provided duty-free treatment of goods exported to America from developing countries before expiring in 2020. “American pork producers support the renewal of GSP, a valuable program that will give U.S. trade negotiators another tool to persuade countries to eliminate trade restrictions on U.S. products,” Spronk said. In the past, the U.S. pork industry has utilized GSP to gain market access to countries like Argentina and India. “A renewal of GSP should include stronger enforcement mechanisms that provide U.S. trade negotiators with the tools to ensure countries are meeting their obligations,” Spronk adds. America’s pork industry shipped $7.68 billion worth of pork to more than 100 foreign countries in 2022, supporting approximately 155,000 U.S. jobs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Payments to Help Organic Dairy Producers The USDA is announcing a second round of payments for dairy producers through the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. The agency is providing an additional $5 million to help dairy producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. The Farm Service Agency has already paid out $15 million in the first round of payments to eligible producers. “The program is critical to keeping small, organic dairies sustainable as they continue to weather a combination of challenges outside their control,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “In total, the Farm Service Agency is providing $20 million to give organic dairy producers additional economic support to stay in operation until markets return to more favorable conditions.” FSA accepted applications for assistance from May 24 to August 11. Eligible operations produce milk from cows, goats, and sheep. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds Establishment of the American Climate Corps The National Association of Conservation Districts applauds the establishment of the American Climate Corps. Developing the next generation of conservationists has been a top priority and a major outcome of NACD’s Climate Action Task Force. The government-wide American Climate Corps will provide for a robust and diverse recruitment pipeline that’s critical for the future success of conservation and climate programs. With 3,000 conservation districts across the U.S. and its territories, NACD can also provide valuable learning opportunities for participants. Conservation districts work with landowners and operators across rural and urban communities. “Opportunities to get ‘boots on the ground’ with conservation districts provides the next generation meaningful development opportunities and leadership roles within local communities,” says Kim LaFleur, NACD President. “These emerging leaders can benefit greatly from the decades of expertise that exist within conservation districts, empowering them to tackle challenges and deploy numerous innovative solutions through the locally-led delivery system.” *********************************************************************************** ASI Investigates Trade Case Against Lamb Imports The American Sheep Industry Association updated the status of a legal process initiated several months ago toward possibly filing a U.S. trade law violation by lamb importers. ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick offered an update as the association awaits the results of a preliminary investigation. “We are specifically looking for the estimate of trade case strength, which depends on two parts,” Orwick says. “One is injury to the industry – the entire industry, the sheep producers, the lamb feeders, and the lamb companies. The second piece is the estimate of any violation, including dumping and subsidy margins, so the board can project an impact on American lamb returns should a case filing result in tariffs on imported lamb meat.” Pursuing a trade case against lamb import countries would cost a minimum of $1.3 million in legal expenses alone and require almost a year to see the case through to the end. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports Right to Repair Bill The Agricultural Right to Repair Act was introduced in both the House and Senate, and the legislation is strongly supported by the National Farmers Union. NFU President Rob Larew says the Right to Repair Act is an important step in the fight to ensure farmers across the country have fair and affordable access to the parts, tools, and information they need to fix farm equipment. “I want to thank the officials who introduced the bill to guarantee farmers the Right to Repair their equipment,” he says. “NFU stands ready to help push this bill forward.” Right to Repair is a pillar of NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture. Just three manufacturers control the majority of farm equipment production, sales, and repairs, and use software locks to prevent farmers and independent mechanics from completing certain repairs. Right to Repair could save farmers $4.2 billion every year. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Groups Appreciate the American Farmers Feed the World Act U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers thanked several lawmakers for introducing the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 in the Senate. The bipartisan legislation would restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional farm bill resources. It also safeguards the interests of hard-working American farmers in providing food to those in need around the world. The wheat groups have joined the broader agriculture industry in backing the legislation. “The American Feed the World Act of 2023 offers an important rebalancing to ensure that Food for Peace remains focused on effectively delivering as much American-grown food to as many people in need as possible,” says USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman. “As Congress considers the new farm bill, this legislation provides an opportunity to revitalize the role of American agriculture in addressing global hunger,” says NAWG President Brent Cheyne.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for September 1 will be out at 2 p.m. CDT Friday. Dow Jones' survey expects the on-feed total to be down 2.2% from a year ago and placements to be down 5.2% from a year ago. Traders will keep an eye on rainfall totals over the weekend and any changes in the forecasts. Weather A storm system in the Pacific Northwest is sending plenty of energy into the Plains to produce areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms in the middle of the country early Friday. Shower coverage should expand with time today, with the more consistent and heavier rains across the Northern Plains. Some severe weather will be possible, as will localized flooding.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |
New Crop Insurance for Tropical Storms Benefits Producers Impacted by Idalia USDA's recent hurricane crop insurance policy expansion to cover tropical storms this year has already provided farmers $85.4 million to help them recover from Hurricane Idalia. USDA's Risk Management Agency rolled out the new Tropical Storm Option for its Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index Endorsement earlier this year after working with farmers to improve coverage. Additionally, producers have received $84.8 million in indemnities for hurricane-related losses for a total of over $170 million in crop insurance payments that will directly help farmers and rural communities recover from Hurricane Idalia. This coverage was unavailable this time last year. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, "I commend farmers and their organizations for reaching out to RMA to discuss new coverage, and our staff for promptly working on creative solutions to make this coverage a reality." Farmers do not need to file a claim to receive payment. If a county is triggered, then the Approved Insurance Provider will issue a payment in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Stratovation to Launch Collaborative Specialty Crop Biologicals Study Stratovation Group is engineering a new study on how specialty-crop growers perceive agricultural biologicals for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut crops. The new study, "Biologicals: Specialty Crop Growers' Perceptions, Values and Potential," will be conducted in collaboration with Western Growers, the Agricultural Retailers Association, DC Legislative and Regulatory Services, and The Fertilizer Institute. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "This effort provides a unique opportunity to gather insights directly from growers, enabling our members to support their input needs effectively and drive sustainable innovation deeper into agriculture." The specialty crop effort will be a comprehensive market research effort focused on understanding farmer/grower opinions on the current use, issues and potential for biologicals, but specifically for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut production at the farm level. The 2023 study will set benchmarks around the use of biologicals by specialty crop growers and provide a roadmap to companies seeking to grow and develop the market category. *********************************************************************************** Russian Wheat Exports Remain Biggest Risk to U.S. Elevators A modest rebound in U.S. wheat production and supplies is improving the outlook for profitability among grain elevators that store wheat. Futures market carries have improved for all three major classes of wheat, and the buy basis is widening following a bigger harvest. The larger harvest follows two years of poor production and a historic run of inverted futures markets that sapped profitability for storing wheat. However, according to CoBank, the major risk to elevators in the year ahead is a sharp rally in wheat prices. Wheat stocks among major exporters are historically tight, and any disruption to the flow of Russian exports through the Black Sea could trigger a sharp price run-up. CoBank economist Tanne Ehmke says, “The flood of cheap Russian wheat into the global market may have created a false sense of security in the world wheat market.” Russia is currently harvesting a near-record wheat crop with substantial carryover inventories from last year's record-sized harvest. *********************************************************************************** Oilseed Groups Urge Use of GREET Model for SAF Tax Incentives Oilseed groups delivered a letter this week to the Biden administration seeking support for investments made by U.S. companies and farmers who are ramping up production of sustainable aviation fuel. Using the GREET model will support investments by farmers, oilseed processors and domestic producers to meet the sustainable aviation fuel challenge, according to the groups. Clean Fuels Alliance America, the American Soybean Association, the National Oilseed Processors Association, and the U.S. Canola Association came together to make the request. The letter states, “Without this, our combined members and others in the industry may not be able to follow through on investments in sustainable aviation fuel production.” GREET is the Argonne National Laboratory’s Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation model. The letter asks the administration to consider the billions of dollars that members of the associations have made to build new or optimize existing production facilities and expand availability of sustainable, homegrown, low-carbon feedstocks like soybean oil and canola. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Efforts to Prevent and Reduce Food Waste The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced an additional $25 million investment to expand efforts to prevent and reduce food loss and waste. The investment, funded under the American Rescue Plan Act, is part of a joint agency initiative between USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist. More than one-third of all available food goes uneaten through loss or waste. When food is tossed aside, so too are opportunities for improved food security, economic growth and environmental prosperity. The funding will support the Community Food Projects, Competitive Grants Program to reduce food loss and waste, get surplus wholesome food to individuals, and develop linkages between food producers, providers and food recovery organizations. Since 2017, NIFA has committed $123.5 million across 527 projects relating to food loss and waste. This latest investment will expand several of NIFA’s core programs by $25 million, and has awarded $4.3 million in fiscal year 2023. *********************************************************************************** Majority of U.S. Apples Used in Juices Apples are a fall staple, showing up in lunch boxes, pies, cobblers, crisps, and cider. However, new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows a majority of apples are used in juices. In 2021, 45.9 pounds of apples per person were available for domestic consumption, according to USDA’s Food Availability data product. Fifty-two percent of the available apples for U.S. domestic use, 23.7 pounds per person, was in the form of juice or cider, or about two gallons per person. Fresh apples accounted for 34 percent, 15.8 pounds per person. Canned, frozen, dried, and other forms made up the remaining 14 percent of apple availability in 2021. Over the last ten years, per-person apple availability reached a high of 49.2 pounds per person in 2016. Much of the decrease since 2016 was because of declining availability of fresh apples. In 2016, fresh apple availability was 19.3 pounds per person.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system entering the Plains will produce areas of scattered showers throughout the day, some of which could be severe. Another disturbance is bringing showers to Illinois as well. Rains will be heavy enough to stop harvest for the next few days but will help to reduce the impact of the ongoing drought
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |
AFBF: Dairy Make Allowances Reform a Must American Farm Bureau Federation economist Danny Munch presented testimony Tuesday at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. This is the third time an AFBF representative has testified at the hearing. The testimony focuses on adjusting make allowances, or the estimated costs that dairy processors incur to convert milk to consumable dairy products, like cheese and butter. This price directly impacts the price paid to farmers for their milk. AFBF is advocating for make allowances to be adjusted based on a mandatory, audited USDA survey, which USDA says it does not have the authority to conduct. AFBF is pursuing legislation that would direct USDA to conduct such a survey. AFBF opposes increasing make allowances based on potentially biased voluntary survey data that could reduce farmers’ prices unfairly. AFBF submitted nine proposals for consideration during the hearing, and four were accepted by USDA. Additionally, AFBF largely supports four of the five proposals submitted by the National Milk Producers Federation. Full AFBF testimony is available at fb.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum USDA's 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, "Cultivating the Future," will take place on February 15-16, 2024, at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. The forum is USDA's longest-running and largest public event and aims to help stakeholders understand and plan for the opportunities and challenges facing the agricultural sector at home and abroad. Each year, it attracts more than 1,800 people in person, and nearly 5,000 virtual attendees from the U.S. and worldwide. The program will include remarks from the Secretary of Agriculture and other top Department officials, along with 30 breakout sessions featuring more than 120 leading experts on a wide range of timely food and agriculture-related topics. Whether you're a farmer, policymaker, industry leader, market analyst, or simply interested in the future of agriculture, the Agricultural Outlook Forum is the perfect place to connect, learn, and engage. Registration will open at the end of October. *********************************************************************************** AVMA Reignites Efforts to Address Rural Veterinary Shortages Lawmakers have reintroduced the Association, the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, formerly known as the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act. Introduced in both the House and Senate, the legislation would expand the reach of the Medicine Loan Repayment Program. The program helps increase access to food animal veterinary services in rural areas by assisting with the significant obstacle of educational debt. The legislation would end the federal taxation on awards, enabling more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $75,000 over three years for student loan repayment in exchange for service in USDA-designated shortage areas. In 2023, the USDA declared 237 rural veterinary shortage areas in 47 states, more than any year. American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "we look forward to working with the congressional champions to enact this bill and help rural communities across the country access the many essential services veterinarians provide.” *********************************************************************************** McKalip to Travel to Oakland, California Port The U.S. Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip will visit Oakland, California, on Thursday. McKalip will visit the Port of Oakland to tour its facilities and engage with stakeholders during his trip. McKalip will be joined by local International Longshore and Warehouse Union leadership and local members of the Pacific Maritime Association. Ensuring the success of America's farmers and producers has been a topline priority for the U.S. Trade Representative's Office under Ambassador Katherine Tai's leadership. The trip follows the recent labor agreement between West Coast port workers and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association. Most recently, USTR secured an agreement with India on September 8, 2023, to resolve the last World Trade Organization dispute and lower tariffs on certain U.S. agricultural products. This built upon the agreement finalized with India in June, which terminated six other WTO disputes and removed retaliatory tariffs on other U.S. agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** Lely Robotic Milkers Class Action Suit Settled Producers and their law firm reached a settlement agreement this month against a manufacturer of allegedly defective milking robots. On September 1, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlement for the Lely A4. The settlement allowed class members to replace their existing robot with Lely's newer A5 model or receive cash relief. Nearly all of the approximately 400 class members participated, and the relief selected is worth approximately $121 million. Based on the claims submitted and options chosen, the cash fund is approximately $51 million, and those opting for trade-ins will receive approximately $71 million in value for trading in their A4s for new A5s. In approving the settlement, the Court called it an "excellent result," noting that it provided "outstanding relief" and received "overwhelming, unprecedented" support from the class. The terms of the settlement were agreed upon after nearly three years of litigation. *********************************************************************************** USDA Study Underscores Importance of Food Safety Education Month USDA Tuesday released results from the final year of a five-year study that observed how consumers prepared meals. The study observed food safety behaviors, including participants' thermometer use for ground pork sausage, handwashing, and cleaning and sanitizing food preparation surfaces. The most recent data shows that 87 percent of participants self-reported they washed their hands before starting to cook in the test kitchen. However, only 44 percent of participants were observed doing so before meal preparation. In the study, 50 percent of participants used a food thermometer to check the doneness of the sausage patties. However, 50 percent of those participants did not check all the food. The study used a harmless tracer bacteria, which was injected into the pork sausage, to simulate the spread of foodborne illness-causing bacteria. Among the surfaces tested, the kitchen sink was most often contaminated, with 34 percent of participants contaminating the sink during meal preparation.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Many expect the Fed to keep the federal funds rate unchanged at their 1 p.m. announcement, but a quarter-percent hike is possible. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts with rain expected to start in the western Plains on Thursday. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country continue to produce showers on Wednesday, especially one moving through the Ozarks which may yield some areas of heavy rain. A front that has set up in the Northern Plains will also be active with periods of showers and thunderstorms as well. That is in advance of a system that will have a major influence on the middle of the country later this week and weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |
USDA Seeking Beginning Farmer and Ranchers Committee Members The Department of Agriculture Monday announced a call for nominations to the Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers. First established in 1992, the committee advises the Agriculture Secretary to enhance USDA’s goals for new farming and ranching operations. Members of the public are invited to submit nominations for themselves or other qualified experts by October 10, 2023. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “USDA is committed to helping the beginning farmer, the young farmer, access and make use of USDA programs.” USDA is soliciting nominations from interested organizations and individuals from among ranching and farming producers, related state and tribal agricultural entities, academic institutions, commercial banking entities, trade associations, and related nonprofit enterprises. The Agriculture Secretary may appoint up to 20 members to the committee. An organization may nominate individuals from within or outside its membership. Interested candidates may also nominate themselves. Find the nomination requirements and information on the committee website. *********************************************************************************** USDA Data Shows Crop Improvement R&D Spending Expanding Total research and development spending on crop improvement by the seven largest seed companies increased from less than $2 billion in 1990 to more than $6.5 billion by 2021. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the spending closely tracks with increases in company revenues from seed and agrichemical sales. Intellectual property rights protections for new seed innovations—especially genetically modified seeds—allow seed companies to set product prices with a temporary legal monopoly. The profits earned are a return for research and development investments and costs to commercialize the inventions. The profits also allowed seed companies to spend more on crop research and development, accelerate the rate of new variety introductions with higher productivity potential, and charge higher prices reflecting the value of improved seeds, according to USDA. Collectively, the seven companies have invested about ten percent of their agricultural revenues in research and development. The top companies include Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, BASF, Limagrain, KWS and Rijk Zwaan (rike-svan). *********************************************************************************** USTR to Deliver Speech on WTO Reform Trade Representative Katherine Tai will deliver a speech on the World Trade Organization and participate in a fireside chat Friday at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C. Tai will also participate in a fireside chat with the WTO Director-General. In her speech, Ambassador Tai will underscore the importance of reform at the World Trade Organization to make it a more effective, responsive, and inclusive forum for solving today's global challenges. She will also highlight areas of reform that are a priority to the United States, and how the United States is engaging with other WTO Members to advance these priorities. The Center for Strategic and International Studies is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. The organization is self-described as one of the world’s preeminent public policy institutions on foreign policy and national security issues. ********************************************************************************** Cargill, Soil Health Institute Create Water Stewardship Partnership The Soil Health Institute and Cargill recently partnered to implement regenerative agriculture practices through water stewardship within agricultural supply chains. The three-year, $3 million partnership will equip farmers, conservation planners, and sustainability experts across North America with tools to enhance drought resilience, improve soil health, and encourage sustainable water use. Soil Health Institute President and CEO Wayne Honeycutt says, "We're expediting adoption of regenerative systems by offering stakeholders practical insights to assess improvements in water storage and availability resulting from changes in on-farm practices." Research has demonstrated that increases in available water-holding capacity associated with soil organic carbon gains from soil health practice implementation can lead to twice as much water storage in the topsoil compared to previous estimates. The partnership will enable farmers, businesses, researchers, governments, and other sustainability experts to assess their progress toward water stewardship objectives and build industry convergence around the value of soil health in enhancing drought resilience and sustainable water management. *********************************************************************************** Rail Safety Week Raising Awareness to Save Lives Operation Lifesaver this week is promoting Rail Safety Week. The annual week-long event concentrates public attention on the need for rail safety education and saves lives by educating and empowering the public to make safe decisions around tracks and trains. Operation Lifesaver’s national office and state Operation Lifesaver programs across the U.S. will connect with their communities through in-person and online events, sharing rail safety messages and urging the public to get involved. Every year, 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured when they engage in unsafe behavior around tracks and trains. In the U.S. alone, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every 3 hours. Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Rachel Maleh (mall-lay) says, “Everyone can help make their communities safer. Know the facts, recognize the signs, make good decisions and join us.” The organization is partnering with Operation Lifesaver Canada and the Association of Mexican Railroads to promote the week across North America. *********************************************************************************** Refinery Outages Increase Fuel Prices For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, climbing 4.6 cents from a week ago to $3.83 per gallon. The national average is down one cent from a month ago but 19.9 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 9.9 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 42.1 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With the transition back to cheaper winter gasoline now upon us in nearly every state, we should see prices eventually cooling back off, but if refinery issues continue to develop or linger, especially now that we're entering maintenance season with less available capacity online, the expected decline could certainly be offset.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a decline of 1.5 percent last week, as demand continues to weaken seasonally while rising prices could also be playing a role.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting, discussing whether to increase the federal funds rate target another quarter-percent or to leave it alone for now. Traders will digest Monday's harvest progress data from USDA, the latest weather forecasts and keep an eye on Black Sea events. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country will be responsible for areas of showers from Texas to areas around Lake Michigan on Tuesday. Most areas will see light rain, but pockets of heavier rain will be possible, especially farther south across Oklahoma and Texas, where there is a greater risk of severe weather, especially hail.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |
Wheat Growers Complete Second Farm Bill Fly-In The National Association of Wheat Growers completed the second part of its 2023 summer Farm Bill Fly-Ins. The first round of visits to Capitol Hill took place in July. During the visit, wheat growers from across the country reinforced the association’s core priorities and underscored the need for Congress to work together to ensure farmers can continue providing safe and affordable food for everyone. Last week, growers from 14 states met with their delegations, staff from each Ag Committee, and Congressional leadership to continue educating lawmakers and advocating for an effective farm safety net. The group’s priorities include working to strengthen Title 1 and crop insurance to better protect farmers. They want support for financial and technical assistance through voluntary conservation cost-share programs for producers in all climates and regions. They’re also encouraging additional investment in agricultural trade promotions and U.S. commodities as part of the farm bill’s trade title. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Industry Supports GREET Model for Scientific Emissions Accuracy American ethanol organizations like the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on sustainable aviation fuel. When it comes to global actions to decarbonize the aviation transportation sector using Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the industry wants to encourage the use of updated carbon-intensity scoring in the GREET model. They don’t want scoring used in the CORSIA model for corn-based ethanol SAF. The letter says, “We strongly support adopting the DOE’s GREET Model as the standard for carbon intensity scoring of conventional aviation fuels and SAF. The latest GREET model relies on the most current information and highest-resolution data regarding the energy use, carbon emissions, and potential land use impacts associated with the corn ethanol-based SAF process.” The letter also says GREET allows the Treasury to unlock the full potential of agriculture to meet the growing global aviation industry SAF demand. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Targets California’s Electric Vehicle Mandate The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill prohibiting California’s attempt to eliminate all gas-powered vehicles. The bill passed the House 222-190. It would keep states from limiting the sale of gas-powered cars and revoke any federal approvals allowing states to do so issued since the beginning of 2022. The vote was along party lines, but eight Democrats did vote with Republicans in favor of the legislation. The legislation doesn’t specifically mention California in its language. States can implement tighter clean car rules stricter than those from the federal government under the Clean Air Act. But those states have to get permission from the Environmental Protection Agency first. The Hill says the EPA reinstated a waiver allowing a California rule aimed at limiting vehicle pollution to take effect. Since then, the state intends to completely phase out the new sales of gas-powered cars. The bill isn’t expected to become law. *********************************************************************************** U.S. HRW Exports Hit Record Low Levels U.S. Hard Red Winter Wheat exports are forecast down 10 million bushels this month to 155 million bushels, the lowest since records began in 1973-1974. HRW supplies have seen a long-term downturn in U.S. acreage as corn and soybeans gained acres in many locations. International wheat competition has also surged, resulting in exports of this class being less competitive on the global market. U.S. HRW supplies have recently been affected by significant drought in consecutive years, which has dented crop prospects and contributed to exports of this class being uncompetitive with other suppliers like Russia and the European Union. Historically, HRW was the leading class of American exports, but this year it’s forecast to be the third-largest class of U.S. exports, surpassed by both Hard Red Spring and White Wheat. Production of HRS and White is down year-over-year with lower yields, but drought hasn’t hit those classes as hard as HRW. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Announces Grant Opportunity for New Livestock Vaccines Iowa Secretary of Ag Mike Naig (NAYG) announced the new Livestock Protection Innovation Grant Program. The program will provide grant funding to assist Iowa-based companies in the development of safe and effective vaccines that may help protect livestock from foreign animal diseases. “Protecting Iowa’s nation-leading livestock industry from devastating foreign animal diseases is enormously important to the farm families and local communities that benefit from its 13-billion-dollar impact,” Naig says. “Vaccine development is one of the many steps we are taking to help safeguard our farm animals because it’s important to have tools available to effectively respond to disease and protect our food supply.” The Iowa Legislature, with support from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, appropriated $250,000 for livestock vaccine development within Iowa during the last legislative session. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is working in collaboration with many stakeholders and officials to swiftly respond to any threat. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Survey Shows Consumer Attitudes on Higher Pork Prices A new Purdue University survey indicates that consumers appear to be more willing to live with higher pork prices if they are the result of meeting animal welfare standards like California’s Prop 12. In the nationwide survey, consumers said they would scale back their purchases if pork prices went higher. But fewer of them would cut back on buying pork if Prop 12 was the reason for the increase. A small segment of survey respondents said they would buy even more pork in that case. “We saw responses that suggest animal welfare is more important to consumers than previously thought,” says Elijah Bryant, a research analyst at Purdue. “Even though the hypothetical price increase is the same size, fewer consumers would decrease their spending on pork knowing the price increase was caused by animal welfare regulations.” The Purdue survey results will get tested on January 1 when Prop 12 is fully implemented.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Harvest Picks up, Will Washington Lie Down OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of September 17. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Harvest reports roll in: You'll find continued harvest reports from the field in our View from the Cab feature as well as coming stories from select combine cabs. 2. Washington's failure to launch: DTN's Chris Clayton will be in D.C. next week covering potential Farm Bill conversations as well as watching for the potential shutdown of government operations at the end of the month. Watch for news stories as well as sharp commentary in his Ag Policy blog. 3. Cattle on Feed Friday: The latest USDA Cattle on Feed Report hits at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, with analysis by DTN's ShayLe Stewart soon after. 4. Harvest Weather Questions: Early harvest conditions continue to be mostly favorable, but more rain would be welcome for immature crops and winter wheat establishment. A system moves into the Plains in the middle of next week, bringing a chance of showers to at least the western half of the region later this week. Central and southern plains areas have the best chance for heavier rains. Rain chances increase for the northern Plains by the weekend, while the South stays dry. 5. Reports Fill the Week: USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit the wires at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll have analysis of Crop Progress Report following the data release. Tuesday we'll see U.S. housing starts for August at 7:30 a.m., while the Fed begins its next two-day meeting. Wednesday the Energy Department releases its weekly energy inventories report at 9:30 a.m., while the Fed is expected to raise the federal funds rate by a quarter-percent at 1 p.m. Thursday we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Friday, as noted above, features the Cattle on Feed report.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, watch for harvest anecdotes and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front will bring some rain, which may be intense, along the East Coast on Monday. High pressure over the middle of the country will keep most other areas dry. That shifts east tonight with showers being possible in isolated clusters overnight into Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |
State Ag Departments Set Policy Priorities The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture set policy priorities for the upcoming year during its annual meeting. NASDA will advocate to give the USDA more authority to be flexible in serving farmers and ranchers who often face challenges in seeking disaster assistance. NASDA members also want existing gaps in insurance coverage and federal disaster relief programs closed to protect farmers from an increasing number of natural disasters. Members will also advocate for standards that ensure clear and consistent labeling for cell-based meat products, also referred to as cultured meat. During the meeting, NASDA also adopted a new policy of supporting laws that protect farmers’ right to farm. The new policy advocates for protecting agricultural and forestry operations from nuisance lawsuits. NASDA members also amended the organization’s policy to support increased investment in apprenticeships and educational programming because of a tremendous need for workers with training specializing in agricultural fields. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Elects News Leadership at Annual Meeting The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture finished its annual meeting by electing new leadership for 2023-2024. Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture, will serve as NASDA’s 2023-2024 President and host the 2024 NASDA Annual Meeting on September 22-25, 2024. “The opportunity to serve as NASDA President is incredibly humbling and certainly an honor, and I appreciate the support of my fellow Ag Commissioners in this new role,” Arthur says. “Agriculture looks different all across the U.S., but I look forward to working together to cultivate common ground as we help producers feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” She also says NASDA members will remain steadfast in their commitment to strengthen and promote agriculture in this country and she’s excited to continue this work. Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward is the new Vice President, Amanda Beal of Maine is Second VP, and Washington’s Derek Sandison is the Secretary-Treasurer. *********************************************************************************** September is National Chicken Month September is National Chicken Month, celebrating the most-consumed meat in the U.S. Two-thirds of all chickens in America are raised in Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Texas. Chicken is also one of the top agricultural exports for the U.S. Foreign markets are increasingly important, accounting for $4.4 billion and 16 percent of world production in 2022. The U.S. is the second-largest exporter in the world as more than 145 countries imported U.S. frozen chicken leg quarters, legs, and thighs last year. While American consumers prefer chicken breast meat, dark meat is more widely desired and consumed internationally. Most U.S. chicken meat exports are often destined for low and middle-income countries that value safe, affordable, and tasty high-protein options. In 2022, almost all of the U.S. broiler meat exports went to developing economies. Fourteen percent of shipments were exported to some of the least developed countries in the world. *********************************************************************************** EPA Resolves Long-Standing ESA Litigation The U.S. Justice Department, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency, resolved long-standing litigation covering over 1,000 pesticide products. The resolution allows EPA to fulfill its obligations to protect endangered species while conducting reviews and approvals of pesticides in a safe and protective manner. In 2011, a lawsuit was filed against EPA alleging it violated the Endangered Species Act when it registered or reevaluated the registration of 382 pesticide active ingredients. A settlement entered in a federal court resolves all outstanding claims. “The agreement is a win-win to protect endangered species, ensure the availability of pesticides needed to grow food across America, and save considerable time and taxpayer expenses further required to litigate this case,” says Michael Freedhoff of the EPA. “This settlement allows EPA time to fulfill its obligations under the ESA and adopt key elements from the Agency’s 2022 ESA work plan, which has a wide range of stakeholders’ support.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $6.5 Million in Risk Management Education The USDA is awarding approximately $6.5 million to 22 organizations to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on-farm risk management and climate-smart farm practices. The funding from the Risk Management Agency provides assistance through its Risk Management Education partnerships for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities. “This funding and these partnerships are integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” She also says because of that risk, the agency is determined to work with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and how to apply them to their farming businesses. RMA first advertised the available funds in January, and this year’s recipients include nonprofits, historically black colleges, and university extensions, among others. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Show High Interest in Harvest Autonomy Farmers in the U.S. and Canada appear to be embracing autonomous technology to optimize their operations and boost productivity. A survey conducted by Forward Group revealed that 65 percent of the operators surveyed expressed enthusiasm for adopting autonomy solutions, while 29 percent showed high levels of enthusiasm. The survey findings emphasize the positive impact of autonomous solutions on farming efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. Sixty-seven percent of the farmers intend to adopt autonomy technology by 2027, with 47 percent planning integration into their operations by 2025, provided the technology proves effective for the tasks. The survey also shows that 59 percent of farmers believe the autonomy will bring significant value to their carting operations. A substantial 51 percent of respondents expressed trust in autonomy technology for their harvesting. The driving factors behind the growing interest include 42 percent of the farmers interested in the technology wanting the autonomy to increase their productivity.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. industrial production in August is out at 8:15 a.m., followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will report on members' soybean crush for August later Friday morning. Weather A weak frontal boundary is moving through the Western Corn Belt on Friday with mostly light showers. Heavier showers and thunderstorms are forecast for parts of Texas. Some showers will also develop in the Southeast, otherwise the country will be dry.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |
Consumer Price Index: Food Prices Rise Again The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.6 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis, after increasing 0.2 percent in July. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 3.7 percent before seasonal adjustment. The index for gasoline was the largest contributor to the monthly all-items increase, accounting for over half of the increase. The food index increased 0.2 percent in August, as it did in July. The index for food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.3 percent in August. The six major grocery store food group indexes were split over the month, with three increases and three decreases. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 0.8 percent in August as the index for pork increased 2.2 percent. The index for other food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, and the index for cereals and bakery products rose 0.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** Voters Want Congressional Support for Low-Carbon Ethanol A new survey from Morning Consult found continued strong voter support for policies promoting the use of lower-cost, lower-carbon American-made ethanol. Registered voters also indicated robust support for specific legislation allowing the year-round sale of E15 and policy promoting the production of more flex-fuel vehicles capable of using the lower-cost E85 fuel blend. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "This nationwide poll of more than 2,000 voters shows strong support for important legislative proposals that are currently pending in the House and Senate." Among the results, 62 percent of those surveyed had a favorable opinion of ethanol, while only 17 percent had an unfavorable opinion. Further, 67 percent also support the United States increasing the availability of the E15 blend, and only 14 percent opposed the expansion of E15. Of those surveyed, 63 percent support the Flex Fuel Fairness Act, 61 percent support the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, and 61 percent support the Next Generation Fuels Act. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Releases Used Cooking Oil Outlook for Biodiesel Clean Fuels Alliance America Wednesday released a new report assessing potential global supplies of used cooking oil. Specifically, the report looks at used cooking oil to meet the growing demand for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel through 2030. In 2022, global used cooling oil trade reached 3.7 billion gallons. With anticipated demand and added value from biodiesel and renewable diesel production, the supply could grow to between five billion and ten billion gallons by 2030. With additional global used cooking oil collection, the potential supply could increase by an additional four billion to seven billion gallons. The report indicates that the United States has the most well-developed used cooking oil collection system, due to long-standing practices for its use and disposal. In 2022, the U.S. supply reached 850 million gallons. Increasing biodiesel and renewable diesel production incentivizes domestic use of that supply – curbing recent export trends. Global used cooking oil trade reached 1.3 billion gallons in 2022. *********************************************************************************** AEM: Overall Tractor Sales Lower Heavy-duty row crop tractor unit sales continued to increase in the U.S., while overall farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. and Canada declined in August. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers reports 100-plus horsepower, two-wheel-drive tractors, and four-wheel-drive tractors, were the only segments to grow year over year. Both those segments, along with self-propelled combines, remain positive for the year. The biggest overall growth among tractors happened in four-wheel-drive units, growing more than 20 percent in August. AEM's Curt Blades says, "North American row-crop farmers continue to add and adopt new technology to their equipment fleets to help reduce costs and improve yields." Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors are down 4.6 percent compared to sales in August 2022, while combine sales declined slightly by 2.4 percent. Canadian tractor sales improved their pace versus the previous month, falling just over six percent, with combines declining more than 17 percent. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Finalizes Changes to Import Regulations for Horses USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced the finalized amendments to its import regulations for horses. The amendments will better align regulations with international standards and allow more flexibility for permitted imports while continuing to mitigate the risk of bringing equine diseases into the United States. The regulations also provide APHIS with more regulatory authority to enforce standards for transporting horses. The changes include increasing the amount of time allowed for horses to be in a contagious equine metritis-affected region without testing upon their return to the United States from 60 to 90 days. The amendments also update ports designated for the importation of horses, adding requirements for health certifications and requiring that horses transiting Central America or the West Indies comply with the same regulations that apply to horses directly imported from these regions, given the greater risk of equine diseases of concern from these areas. The final rule goes into effect on October 16, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Few US Adults Rate Their Diet Good or Excellent New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service show Americans don’t have high ratings for their diets. In the period covering January 2017 to March 2020, just under three in ten adults, or 29 percent, reported the healthfulness of their diets was very good or excellent.” That is 3.5 percentage points lower than the corresponding share reported in 2005–06. The data can be found in the latest publicly available wave of the Flexible Consumer Behavior Survey, which collects information on U.S. consumers’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about nutrition and food choices. For context, 41 percent of adults surveyed in the 1989–1991 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes of Individuals rated the healthfulness of their diets as “very good” or excellent, suggesting a continuing downward trend in the health quality individuals ascribe to their diets. FCBS is a module of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and its data reflect national trends about changing dietary behaviors of U.S. consumers.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for August, U.S. retail sales and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A new front and an old one will make for showers in the Plains on Thursday, with any pockets of moderate to heavy rain likely to stay confined in parts of Texas. Mild temperatures continue to be the case for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |
USDA Releases September WASDE Report USDA released the September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report Tuesday. This month’s corn outlook calls for slightly larger supplies and ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks for 2023/24 are five million bushels lower, and corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, up 23 million from last month. The national average yield is forecast at 173.8 bushels per acre, down 1.3 bushels. Ending stocks are up 19 million bushels to 2.2 billion. The season-average corn price is unchanged at $4.90 per bushel. Soybean supply and use changes for 2023/24 include lower beginning stocks, production, crush, exports, and ending stocks. The soybean yield of 50.1 bushels per acre is down 0.8 bushels from last month. Ending stocks are projected at 220 million bushels, down 25 million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.90 per bushel, up $0.20 from last month. The wheat outlook for supply and use is unchanged this month. The projected 2023/24 season-average farm price is also unchanged at $7.50 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Crop Production Report Shows Higher Corn Production Corn production is up, while soybean and cotton production is down from 2022, according to USDA’s Crop Production report issued Tuesday. Corn production is up ten percent from last year, forecast at 15.1 billion bushels. Soybean growers are expected to decrease their production three percent from 2022, forecast at 4.15 billion bushels. Finally, cotton production is down nine percent from 2022 at 13.1 million 480-pound bales. Planted and harvested acreage estimates for corn, cotton, and soybeans were reviewed based on all available data, including the latest certified acreage data from the Farm Service Agency. As a result, area planted to corn is estimated at 94.9 million acres, up one percent from the previous estimate, area planted to soybeans is estimated at 83.6 million acres, up slightly, and area planted to cotton is estimated at 10.2 million acres, down eight percent from the previous estimate. USDA surveyed more than 7,000 producers across the country and conducted objective yield surveys for the report. *********************************************************************************** Basil Gooden Nominated as USDA Rural Development Undersecretary President Joe Biden this week nominated Dr. Basil Gooden to serve as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development. If confirmed by the Senate, Gooden would fill the undersecretary position left vacant by Xochitl Torres Small, who was confirmed in July 2023 as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack responded, “Dr. Basil Gooden is a widely-respected, accomplished champion for affordable housing, community advancement, and economic development.” One of USDA’s seven mission areas, Rural Development helps to expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. Gooden recently served as a Visiting Scholar in the Sustainable Food Access Core of the Institute for Inclusion, Inquiry and Innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University. From 2016-2018, he served as the 3rd Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Before that, Gooden served as the Virginia State Director for Rural Development at USDA. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Awards to Support One Health Initiatives USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is awarding 36 research awards totaling more than $56 million to support One Health surveillance and coordination. One Health is a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach – working at the local, regional, national, and global levels – to achieve optimal health outcomes. It recognizes the interconnection between animals, people, plants and their shared environment. The announcement includes eight Agriculture and Food Research Initiative projects from USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, one National Science Foundation Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Diseases program project, and 27 projects identified through the USDA APHIS SARS-CoV-2 in animals funding opportunities. The awards will help APHIS accomplish its goal of building an early warning system to potentially prevent or limit the next zoonotic disease outbreak. APHIS Acting Administrator Dr. Michael Watson says, "This important work will strengthen our foundation to protect humans and animals for years to come." *********************************************************************************** FFAR Renews ESMC Partnership to Grow Market Program The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research Tuesday announced the renewal of its partnership with Ecosystem Services Market Consortium, or ESMC. The foundation awarded $10.3 million in 2019 to ESMC to support its research arm, matched by ESMC for a total of $20.6 million. That research resulted in Eco-Harvest, launched in May 2022. Eco-Harvest is an ecosystem services market program that financially rewards participating producers for using regenerative agriculture practices that generate beneficial environmental outcomes. Eco-Harvest program regions include the corn and soy belt, Northern Great Plains, Southern Great Plains, Southeast and Great Lakes regions for corn, soy, wheat, oats and alfalfa cropping systems. FFAR announced an investment of $5.15 million for additional research, and ESMC is matching the award for a total $10.3 million. ESRC will conduct the research, development, demonstration and deployment activities that facilitate Eco-Harvest participating in all major U.S. agricultural regions. FFAR’s Dr. LaKisha Odom says, “These practices are critical in protecting farmers’ livelihoods and the environment, while increasing productivity.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Intends to Return $730 Million to Owners CHS Inc., the nation's leading agribusiness cooperative, has announced it intends to return $730 million in cash patronage and equity redemptions to its owners in calendar year 2024. The CHS Board of Directors determines the total amount of cash to be returned to CHS owners at the close of each fiscal year. Based on business done with CHS in fiscal year 2023, which ended on August 31, 2023, the CHS Board has elected to return $365 million in cash patronage and $365 million through equity redemptions to CHS owners. CHS owners are member cooperatives and farmer-owners in hundreds of communities across rural America. The cash returns earmarked for distribution in 2024 will combine with the previous year's cash returns for more than $1.7 billion shared with owners over two years and more than $3.2 billion returned to owners over the past ten years. Final financial results for fiscal year 2023 are expected to be announced in November 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for August will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for August at 1 p.m. Weather A front continues to work across the far south and east on Wednesday, with mostly quiet conditions throughout the Corn Belt. A few isolated showers remain possible in the Great Lakes. Temperatures remain mild for most areas, even in Texas as the front moves through.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |
Ag Labor Expenses Forecast to Increase in 2023 Total cash labor expenses for the U.S. agriculture sector are forecast to be $43.35 billion for 2023, based on new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. This would be an increase of $0.78 billion, or 1.8 percent, over the 2022 level of $42.57 billion in inflation-adjusted 2023 dollars. The projected 2023 level would remain below the high set in 2017. Labor expenses are an important component of agricultural production costs. For every $100 spent on production expenses, almost $10 goes toward labor. Total labor expenses include contract and hired labor payments but exclude non-cash employee compensation. Generally, the animal production sector uses less hired and contract labor than the crop sector. In 2021, the animal production sector accounted for about one-third of total hired and contract labor expenses, with the remaining roughly two-thirds incurred by the crop production sector. This is because some large specialty crops are more labor-intensive than most industries in the animal sector. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Applauds Natural Disaster Assistance for Dairy Farmers New funding announced Monday from the Department of Agriculture will help dairy producers affected by natural disasters. The Milk Loss Program administered by the Farm Service Agency will compensate eligible dairy farms and processors for milk dumped due to qualifying disaster events from 2020 to 2022. Eligible disasters include droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, winter storms and smoke exposure. The Milk Loss Program will help farmers and, in certain cases, cooperatives, recover losses previously overlooked by disaster assistance. The National Milk Producers Federation applauded the announcement. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “We’re very appreciative of USDA’s diligent work over several months to finalize the compensation plan that will address this backlog of disaster assistance.” Dairy farmers and cooperatives can sign up for the program through October 16, 2023. In other FSA dairy safety-net support, Dairy Margin Coverage program payments have triggered every month, January through July, for producers who obtained coverage for the 2023 program year. *********************************************************************************** TFI Welcomes STB’s Proposed Rule on Reciprocal Switching The Fertilizer Institute praised the Surface Transportation Board’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on providing rail customers access to reciprocal switching as a remedy for poor rail service. STB Chairman Martin Oberman stated in the announcement, “In the past several years, and particularly since 2021, it has become clear that many rail customers nationwide have suffered from inadequate and deteriorating rail service.” The proposal from the STB would provide a streamlined path for rail customers to obtain a reciprocal switching order by including specific, objective, and measurable criteria for determining eligibility. That criterion includes measures of service reliability, service consistency, and adequacy of local service. The proposal would also standardize these three service metrics across all Class 1 carriers for the first time. President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “More than 60 percent of fertilizer moves by rail and is therefore critical to the on-time delivery of fertilizer to farmers exactly where and when they need it.” *********************************************************************************** AEM: Market Challenges Lie Ahead, But Optimism is Warranted As equipment manufacturers look ahead to the remainder of 2023 and beyond, the landscape continues to present challenges for the industry and the ag and construction customers it serves. AEM members report demand for products across both industries has softened. However, particularly in construction, investments in infrastructure, energy and utilities, point to better days ahead. And a wealth of data suggests optimism – both in the short term and long term. AEM Director of Agriculture Austin Gellings says, “Essentially, everything hinges on where a farmer is going to be able to improve their efficiency the most and in turn see the greatest return on investment.” With input costs continuing to rise, the best ways for a farmer to respond and continue to reap the rewards of strong commodity prices is to operate on those margins and find wins where they can. As farmers are looking for ways to minimize inputs while still increasing yields, technology and data provides the answer. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Foundation welcomes Next Generation class of 2023 The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation welcomes NASDA's Next Generation class of 2023, featuring 13 students from ten states. The NASDA Next Generation class of 2023 will network with commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture, industry leaders, and stakeholders at the NASDA Annual Meeting. The program aims to advance future leaders' understanding of agriculture policy and the role of state departments of agriculture in ensuring a healthy and thriving food system for all. Through the NASDA Next Generation programming, students learn about pressing food and agricultural policy issues, NASDA's mission, and careers in public service. During the meeting events, students can also explore Wyoming's community-based agriculture. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “This cohort of students represents the wide variety of experience and dedication to agricultural excellence that will enable the industry to thrive and impact the entire food system moving forward.” You can find the list of students on the NASDA website. *********************************************************************************** GasBuddy: Weekly Fuel Prices Rise Again After falling for two straight weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 1.6 cents from a week ago to $3.79 per gallon. The national average is down 3.0 cents from a month ago but 11.4 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.9 cents last week to 4.42 per gallon, 58.6 cents lower than one year ago. The West Coast and the Corn Belt saw the brunt of last week's increases. More than ten states saw prices rise by more than ten cents per gallon compared to last week, while some, like Iowa and Minnesota, have seen average prices spike by over 30 cents per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "We should see more price decreases for most of the nation in the weeks ahead, barring further refinery disruptions and hurricane season." U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a hefty 3.9 percent decrease last week, as post-Labor Day travel appeared to drop significantly.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets USDA's Crop Production and WASDE reports are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Tuesday with prompt coverage on DTN and a post-report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The U.S. Energy Department will also release its Short-Term Energy Outlook Tuesday morning. DTN will also have a presentation of weather and markets at Husker Harvest at 2 p.m., at the DTN building, Lot 802. Weather A front continues to trek southeast through the country Tuesday, producing areas of showers from the Southern Plains to the Northeast. Temperatures behind the front continue to be mild.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |
World Food Prices Lower in August The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 121.4 points in August, a 2.6-point drop from July, reversing the rebound registered that month. The August drop pushed the index 38 points lower than its peak reached in March 2022. The overall drop was driven by declines in the index for dairy products, vegetable oils, meat, and cereals, while the sugar price index rose modestly. The Dairy Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August and took the biggest drop, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-straight monthly decline. The Vegetable Oil Index averaged 125.8 points, 4.6 points below July. The Meat Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-consecutive monthly drop. The Sugar Price Index averaged 148.2 points in August, up 1.9 points from July and as much as 37.7 points, or 34 percent, from its level in the same month last year. *********************************************************************************** July Pork Exports Stay Above 2022 Levels Building on a robust first half of 2023, July pork exports continue to outpace 2022 levels. USDA data showed July pork exports at 219,000 metric tons, up five percent from last year, while export value rose one percent to $628.7 million. Exports to the top market, Mexico, continued at a record pace. “Market diversification has been the top priority for the U.S. pork industry, and those efforts certainly reflect these results,” says Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Through the first seven months of this year, exports were 13 percent higher than last year’s pace at 1.69 million metric tons. Beef exports stepped back in July, posting the lowest volume since January. July beef exports totaled 103,167 metric tons, 18 percent below last year. Beef export value was down 19 percent to $810.4 million, the lowest since February. Exports posted gains in Mexico, Taiwan, and Canada. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Wants Aviation Biofuel Tax Decisions Tied to Emissions Model Asserting that U.S. tax policy should be tied to the best standards the government has, 17 of the nation’s top corn grower leaders sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. It encourages her to adopt an emissions model developed by the Energy Department as her agency works with the IRS to determine which biofuels lower greenhouse gas emissions enough to qualify for sustainable aviation fuel tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. The letter comes as corn ethanol has been used for years in cars and trucks while saving consumers money on fuel. Ethanol is being considered for use in the aviation arena, where experts say the biofuel would do for airplanes what it has done for autos. Corn grower leaders point out that the tax credit from the IRA will be crucial to ensuring ethanol is quickly made available in the aviation sector. A decision will get made this month. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and India Resolve Outstanding WTO Poultry Dispute U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the U.S. and India resolved their last outstanding dispute at the World Trade Organization. As a part of the agreement, India also agreed to reduce tariffs on U.S. products like frozen turkey, frozen duck, and fresh and frozen blueberries and cranberries. Tai says the tariff cuts will expand economic opportunities for American agricultural producers in a critical market and help bring more U.S. products to consumers in India. “Resolving this last outstanding WTO dispute represents an important milestone in the U.S.-India trade relationship while reducing tariffs on certain American products enhances crucial market access for American farmers,” says Tai. In June, the U.S. and India agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India agreed to reduce tariffs on certain U.S. products like lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, and others. “This agreement resolves a long-standing dispute and deepens the relationship,” Tai adds. *********************************************************************************** August Rainfall Provides Inflow to the Missouri River System Rainfall in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was above normal during August, resulting in above-average runoff. However, because of drier-than-normal conditions in previous years, total storage in the Missouri River reservoir system remains lower than normal. Based on September 1 system storage, releases from the Gavins Point Dam will be 13,000 cubic feet per second, slightly above the minimum rate. “August rainfall provided some inflow into the Upper Missouri River Basin Reservoir System,” says John Remus, chief of the Army Corps’ Missouri River Basin Water Management System. “Some areas received up to 400 percent of normal rainfall.” August runoff was 1.7 million acre-feet, 121 percent above average in Sioux City. The updated 2023 forecast for the upper basin is 29.1-million-acre feet, 113 percent of average. The annual average runoff for the upper basin is 25.7-million-acre fee. The total volume in the System was 55.5 MAF on September 1. *********************************************************************************** New Checkoff Website for the Sheep Industry America’s Lamb producers can now turn to LambBoard.com for resources on checkoff production, promotion, and other programs. The new American Lamb Board site officially launched on September 7. “This is a totally new site for America’s Lamb industry,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair. “That includes commercial and seedstock producers, feeders, direct marketers, sale managers, auction markets, and processors.” He also says it’s home to everything about the American Lamb Board and the checkoff program. A wealth of information is available on the site, including the best practices for sheep productivity and efficiency, lamb quality, and recipes. There are also premium items for local promotions in the ALB store, free downloadable handouts, and details on ALB’s cooperative funding program. Producers can find the latest news and results of the American Lamb Checkoff’s activities and an online assessment payment tool. Producers selling directly to consumers can check out toolkits on marketing to ethnic markets.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN will be watching for any new sales of corn or soybeans, private production estimates, and any weather issues around the globe, especially in Argentina, Brazil and Australia. The September WASDE will be out on Tuesday morning. Weather A front continues to sag through the Corn Belt on Monday. It brought scattered showers to many areas over the weekend and continues its pursuit to the Southeast with more showers. Heavier precipitation will likely remain relegated to the Plains, though some bursts through the Midwest will also be possible.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |
Federal Reserve Releases August Beige Book The Federal Reserve released its August Beige Book update, a summary of commentary on current economic conditions from the Fed. The report includes several observations on the U.S. agricultural economy. Drought was affecting several of the Fed’s districts across the country. In the Tenth District, the Kansas City Fed says the farm economy was strong, but conditions softened alongside lower commodity prices and persistent drought. In the Eleventh District in Dallas, a significant portion of the district entered or re-entered drought during the past six weeks. In the Minneapolis Fed’s Ninth District, prices were retreating to levels that could be below break-even for some producers because of high input costs. In the Eighth District of St. Louis, the percentage of cotton and rice rated fair or better stayed stable despite record-breaking heat and heat-dome-induced thunderstorms. In the Twelfth District of San Francisco, conditions in the agriculture and resource-related sectors remained largely unchanged. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Reorganizes Leadership The National Milk Producers Federation announced staff reorganization as it transitions to new leadership. Incoming President and CEO Gregg Doud began working with the organization as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, a position he will hold until the current President and CEO Jim Mulhern retires in January. “I am excited to announce these changes, which will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our structure,” Mulhern says. “They also recognize the contributions of the affected individuals to our overall success.” He also says these changes also position the organization well for even greater success in the future. NMPF named three new Executive Vice Presidents as part of the reorganization, recognizing responsibilities that are expanding across NMPF teams. Paul Bleiberg is the Executive Vice President of Government Relations, Shawna Morris is the Executive VP of Trade Policy and Global Affairs, and Alan Bjerga is the Executive VP of Communications and Industry Relations. *********************************************************************************** CAB Launches New Direct-to-Consumer Program Certified Angus Beef launched a brand-new Ranch to Table Program. That means Angus farmers and ranchers now have the option to market their beef directly to consumers as a CAB product. Ranch to Table is a direct partnership program between CAB and cattle operations using Angus genetics that allows ranchers to use the brand’s trusted reputation for increased gain. “This is another way for Angus ranchers to continue taking pride in and having equity in the brand by being able to hang brand standards on those cattle that ultimately qualify,” says Kara Lee, director of producer engagement for CAB. To participate in the program, a producer’s cattle must incorporate registered Angus genetics, which may require American Angus Association active membership or proof of bull registrations. Producers must also be Beef Quality Assurance certified. As with any CAB product, the cattle must meet the brand’s live-animal evaluation with a predominantly solid-black hide. *********************************************************************************** Another Challenge to GMOs The Center for Food Safety filed a legal appeal against the USDA in response to its genetically engineered labeling rules. The organization says those rules do not mandate clear on-package food labeling and allow unlabeled hidden GMOs to proliferate in the U.S. food marketplace. The CFS was victorious in a 2022 district court ruling in its original USDA lawsuit, which found it unlawful to use inaccessible digital QR codes on food products instead of clear and accessible labeling. Despite the decision, the court refused to vacate USDA’s decision allowing this practice. “USDA is hiding the presence of the majority of GMO food ingredients from American consumers with its exemption for highly-refined foods despite a law passed by Congress,” says Meredith Stevenson, CFS attorney. “The Court rubber-stamped USDA’s decision to exclude highly refined foods like sodas and oils from labeling and use unfamiliar terminology, keeping consumers in the dark about their food.” *********************************************************************************** The First Autonomous Tractor Arrived at the University of Missouri It took more than a year, but University of Missouri researchers welcomed the arrival of one of the nation’s first-of-its-kind electric, autonomous tractors. It’s known as the Monarch MK-V tractor. Researchers called it a “revolutionary piece of technology” that will get studied for its ability to refine agricultural practices and support farmers with disabilities. The University received the tractor as part of a grant awarded by the USDA’s Equipment Grants Program. The new tractor, to be charged with a biofuel generator, will serve as a tool for teaching and research in the agriculture and engineering programs. Researchers will explore the autonomous functions of the tractor, like making use of the sensors and cameras to collect images and then store the data from those images. They also want to understand the tractor’s ability to use artificial intelligence to enhance precision agriculture. Researchers are quite excited about the next generation of technology. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Breaks Soybean Export Record with Surprise Sales The University of Illinois Farmdoc Daily says Brazil’s farmers are shipping out a lot of soybeans. Brazil’s farmers harvested almost 160 million tons of soybeans during the previous crop season. That resulted in record exports in the first seven months of 2023. Price competitiveness led to a significant increase in the volume of soybeans shipped to China. Brazil also benefited from sales to a nation that’s not on its regular customers list: Argentina, the third-largest soybean producer behind Brazil and the U.S. Argentina lost almost half its soybean crop because of drought. To meet its crushing industry contracts for soybean oil and meal, Argentina purchased Brazilian soybeans and became the second-leading destination for Brazil’s soybeans after China. Argentina is also losing its top position as soybean meal exporter this season, giving up its spot to neighboring Brazil. Brazil’s soybean exports reached 72.47 million tons during the first seven months of 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. government reports are scarce on Friday with only wholesale Inventories and the consumer credit report. The weekly Export Sales report will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT. DTN will be watching for grain and soybean export sales on Friday, and weather issues in primarily Australia and Brazil. Weather A front remains across the East and portions of the Southern Plains Friday. Some clusters of thunderstorms will be possible in both areas. Another system is moving into the Northern Plains and will develop some isolated showers. But most areas will be dry with mild temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |
Monthly Monitor Forecasts a Positive Crop Outlook The University of Missouri’s Monthly Monitor surveys economists nationwide about their projections for agricultural trends. The report, compiled by the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center and Farm Journal, is forecasting a positive outlook for farm finances even as the weather has created significant challenges in North America. July’s results showed more optimism than the previous Monthly Monitor in June. Economists seem to be more positive about the crop side of the ag economy compared to livestock. Sixty-four percent of the economists surveyed were positive about crops, and 55 percent had a negative view of livestock. Despite the weather challenges, farmers are seeing continued productivity and efficiency gains that lead to strong balance sheets. Looking ahead, the economists say global competition and geopolitical risks could impact crop prices in the next six months. In livestock, economists worry about feed costs and how they could affect livestock prices and profitability. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Testifies at FMMO Hearing American Farm Bureau Federation Chief Economist Roger Cryan testified at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. Farm Bureau membership includes cooperatives and independent dairy farmers, most of whom are directly or indirectly affected by the pricing provisions in the FMMOs. Farm Bureau’s testimony focused on the reduction or elimination of negative producer price differentials and the de-pooling they cause. An orderly pool is the key to orderly marketing and the continued benefits of the Federal Milk Marketing Orders for farmers, cooperatives, processors, and consumers. The key to an orderly pool is the proper alignment of the four Class prices. Other proposals include supporting the National Milk Producers Federation’s suggestion to drop barrel cheese from Class 3 component and price calculations. AFBF also proposes that 640-pound blocks get added to the National Dairy Sales Report, to the cheddar cheese price calculation, and to the Class 3 protein calculation. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow, Boozman Want USDA Funds for Market Development The National Corn Growers Association applauds Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and John Boozman (R-AR) for sending a letter to the USDA on increasing market development opportunities. The Senate Ag Committee leaders want the agency to allocate funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation to support creating new and better market opportunities for farmers, as well as in-kind international food assistance. “Cultivating new foreign markets is one of our top priorities,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). The letter says, “Farm bill trade promotion programs help address the need to build new markets. We believe that resources available under the CCC can support similar efforts to open access to markets and promote American-grown products overseas.” The CCC funds are used by government to implement specific programs established by or to carry out activities under the CCC Charter Act. NCGA has called on Congress to increase investments in these programs. *********************************************************************************** Idalia Kills at Least Five Million Chickens in Florida Almost a week after Hurricane Idalia hit Florida, the livestock body count is climbing higher, especially in poultry operations. The Messenger says estimates say as many as five million chickens died from the Category Three storm. Winds were around 125 mph when the storm hit land. The hurricane tore apart barns and fence lines and killed livestock from cattle to chickens. Chicken coops were ripped apart by high winds or high waters, and many coops were crushed by falling trees. The chickens that survived the storm were seen roaming around looking for food as their feeders were destroyed in the storm. Many others died in the heat and humidity. The storm hit farmers hard, tearing up crops and multiple livestock facilities. A spokeswoman for the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences says the actual death count of poultry could take months after all the assessments are completed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant Helping Promote Sustainable Aviation Fuel Gevo (JEE-voh), Incorporated, announced that it’s received a $30 million grant from USDA for its Climate-Smart Farm-to-Flight Program. The grant is from USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The Gevo program is intended for tracking and quantifying the carbon-intensity impact of climate-smart practices while creating market incentives for low-carbon-intensity corn to help accelerate the production of sustainable aviation fuel and low-CI ethanol. “Our Farm-to-Flight Program aims to count all the carbon at the field level and reward farmers on a performance basis for delivering low-CI corn, as well as to accelerate the production of SAF to reduce dependency on fossil-based fuel,” says Dr. Paul Bloom, Chief Carbon Officer and Chief Innovation Officer for Gevo. “The program will also focus on deploying our Verity Tracking platform to farmers to help them measure, report, and verify their CI reductions.” The grant will also help count all carbon through the entire business system and reward farmers. *********************************************************************************** Governors Standing Firm on States’ Rights in the Farm Bill Groups like Competitive Markets Action and the Organization for Competitive Markets applauded the National Governors Association for urging Congress to prioritize the next farm bill. The co-chairs of the NGA’s Education, Workforce, and Community Investment Task Force sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to consider several key priorities for the new bill. The governors emphasized the importance of avoiding preempting state-level laws regarding agricultural production. They said, “States succeed when the federal government avoids granting a private right of action against states that maintain their own production or manufacturing standards on agricultural products.” The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act is a controversial bill currently being considered by Congress. The groups say it would upend states’ rights by nullifying more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action, says they applaud the Governors Association for advocating on behalf of farmers and states’ rights.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's report on U.S. productivity is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10:00 a.m. Weather Temperatures across most of the Corn Belt are mild, with some higher temperatures briefly in the far west the next couple of days. A front has essentially cleared the region with showers on the periphery, some of which may be stronger across the East, Southern Plains, and Nebraska later Thursday. It remains hot in and around Texas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |
Lower Beef Demand in Most Worldwide Markets Other than in the U.S., beef markets around the world are seeing softer consumer demand. A Rabobank Q3 Global Beef Quarterly Report says cattle prices are split into two groups: those in North America and Europe, and those in the rest of the world. Declining supplies and strong consumer demand in the U.S. are driving cattle prices higher, and lower domestic beef supply has also held up prices in Canada and Europe. It’s the opposite in most other regions, where increased supply and lower demand are making prices softer. Rabobank says U.S. cattle prices have increased almost 30 percent over the past 12 months, while Australian cattle prices have dropped by more than 30 percent, calling it the largest spread they’ve seen in the past decade. In a number of regions, particularly in Asia, beef purchases made in anticipation of COVID recovery haven’t been consumed yet, leaving supply chains full. *********************************************************************************** Farmer Sentiment Drops in August Producer sentiment lowered during August as the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer dipped eight points to a reading of 115. The month’s decline was driven by producers’ weaker perception of current conditions on their farms and throughout U.S. agriculture. The Current Conditions Index fell 13 points to a reading of 108. The Future Expectations Index also dropped by five points to a reading of 119 in August. Rising interest rates and concerns about high input prices continue putting downward pressure on producer sentiment. When asked about their top concerns over the next year, 34 percent of survey respondents said higher input prices and 24 percent said rising interest rates. Even though crop prices weakened during the summer, only one in five producers chose declining commodity prices as one of their top concerns. The Farm Capital Investment Index was lower this month, dropping eight points to a reading of 37. *********************************************************************************** FAPRI Releases U.S. Baseline Outlook The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri released its annual U.S. Baseline Outlook report. It includes projections for agricultural and biofuel markets and helps in evaluating alternative scenarios for agricultural policy. “Projected prices for most crops, poultry, and dairy products all retreat in 2023 from recent peaks, and so do some production expenses,” says FAPRI Director Pat Westhoff. Among the findings, the report says if weather conditions allow crop yields to return to trend-line levels in 2023, prices for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and many other crops are likely to fall. Higher fertilizer, fuel, and feed costs contributed to a very sharp increase in farm production costs last year, but a smaller increase is projected in 2023. Lower prices in some inputs will likely bring down production costs in 2024 and 2025. Hog, poultry, and dairy prices will fall, but beef prices will remain high. *********************************************************************************** Entries Open for 2024 Dairy Checkoff’s New Product Competition Dairy Management, Inc. is accepting applications from college students for the 2024 New Product Competition. The competition seeks innovative dairy product concepts and is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S. DMI wants students to develop innovative, dairy-based products for health and wellness consumers. Successful entries must meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation, and provide value to consumers. The competition is an opportunity for students to develop new products in line with current industry and consumer insights to uncover innovative dairy-based products for health and wellness. Consumers are emphasizing health and wellness, so they’re looking for products that provide benefits to digestion, immunity, joint health and mobility, and overall health. The judging panel will include experts from across the dairy industry. Winning teams get recognized at the American Dairy Science Association’s annual meeting in West Palm Beach, Florida, from June 16-19, 2024. The contest will award a combined $27,000. *********************************************************************************** Agriculture On Guard Against Cyber-Attacks Agriculture has seen increasing online attacks in recent years. Global AgTech says technology makes running daily operations easier and helps increase output. Different types of technology help with efficiency, yield, and profitability, and they include computers, robotics, drones, software, and vehicles. One of the biggest reasons agriculture has become an online target is due to the vital role it plays in the country’s economy. Farms are also considered easy targets. Many farmers haven’t implemented cybersecurity measures and are unaware of the vital role those measures play in the success of their operations. Industry experts recommend farmers implement security measures to protect their businesses. Among some of the recommended best practices, farmers should have a dedicated contingency plan. It’s also important to protect all login information. Make sure to put measures in place to protect against phishing attacks. It’s also very important to install antivirus software and make sure it stays updated. *********************************************************************************** World Record Soybean Yield Set in Georgia Alex Harrell of Smithville, Georgia, set the world record for soybean yield with an average of 296.7 bushels per acre. The yield was harvested on August 23 and verified by the University of Georgia Extension Service. “We knew it was going to be good, but maybe not quite this good,” says Alex Harrell. “There’s no silver bullet when it comes to high yields, but it’s important to have good products, people, and timing.” Harrell’s world record soybean yield is indicative of advancements in precision breeding, biotechnology, and increased knowledge of farm management practices. Harrell experienced favorable conditions through the growing season. Only two significant weather events with excess rain caused emergence challenges and some flooding. “I’m used to soybeans being in the average range of about 40 bushels an acre,” says Doug Collins, University of Georgia Lee County Extension Agent. “Neither Alex nor I thought the yield would be that high.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the U.S. trade deficit for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A front that pushed through the Western and Central Corn Belt on Tuesday will move through eastern areas on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected with the front, some of which may be stronger. The front will not make it down through the Southern Plains, though. Temperatures behind the front are significantly cooler than the extreme heat noted ahead and south of it.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |
RMA Makes Changes to Whole Farm Revenue Protection Policies The USDA announced it is improving crop insurance options for small and diversified farmers by improving the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm Insurance plans. The updates are a part of the Risk Management Agency’s efforts to increase participation and access to crop insurance. “The improvements in both policies are a direct response from feedback we’ve received from producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “These are two of the most comprehensive risk management plans available, and they are especially important to specialty crop, organic, urban, and direct-market producers.” Changes to the Whole-Farm policy include allowing all eligible producers to qualify for 80 and 85 percent coverage levels. Producers will also be able to purchase catastrophic coverage level policies for individual crops. Micro Farm policy improvements include moving the sales closing date to a less busy time of year, especially helpful for agents to assist growers with important risk management decisions. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Drought, Heat Threaten Soybean Crop at a Critical Stage Prolonged drought and record heat are threatening soybean yields in several key growing states across the Midwest. With most of the soybean crop still in the critical pod-setting phase that depends on August moisture, persistent dry conditions are lowering yield production and raising concerns about the availability of supplies. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange did research that found soybeans have a much tighter supply situation than corn due to the loss of planted acres. “If hot and dry conditions continue in the Midwest and yield loss for soybeans increases, the U.S. soybean supply will tighten further,” says Tanner Ehmke, lead grains and oilseeds economist for CoBank. “That will result in stronger interior cash basis and lower exports.” More pods will likely get aborted if the hot and dry conditions continue. In addition to drought and heat stress, scouts on the recent Pro Farmer Crop Tour noticed sudden death syndrome across multiple soybean fields. *********************************************************************************** What’s Ahead for the Farmland Market? Recent farmland sale prices and values have increased to levels never before seen in the agricultural land market. Paul Shadegg (SHAH-deg), senior vice president of Real Estate Operations at Farmers National, says the momentum in the farmland market began building 25 years ago. But is it sustainable moving forward? There continues to be strong interest in buying ag land across the U.S. Both individual buyers and land investors have created this competitive atmosphere in the agricultural real estate market. Shadegg and Farmers National predict that will increase moving through the second half of 2023. At the same time, properties offered to the market will likely be limited, which will help sustain current values. They also expect to see a plateau in land values based on past agriculture cycles and a new normal in land values. Land values will continue to be driven by buyer competition and available supply for sale. *********************************************************************************** Barge Freight Rates Climb on Lower Water Levels The cost of transporting harvested commodities down the Mississippi River is climbing. The rates are rapidly rising as shrinking water levels drive barge freight rates higher. The forecast calling for below-average rainfall isn’t offering any relief. Bloomberg says barge spot rates on August 29 were up 49 percent from the prior week and 42 percent from last year at $23.34 per ton. USDA data says that’s 85 percent higher than the three-year average. Last year, extremely low water levels stranded more than 2,000 barges on the Mississippi River, bringing commerce to a halt on the waterway. The Mississippi River carries more than 45 percent of all U.S. agricultural exports to ports in the South. Water levels resumed dropping in June, restricting the amount of grain allowed on each barge. In turn, that leads to a tighter supply of barges as more of them are required to transport the same amount of grain. *********************************************************************************** West Coast Port Workers Ratify Contract Dock workers at West Coast ports ratified a six-year contract that improved pay and benefits for 22,000 employees at 29 ports from California to Washington state. Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union voted 75 percent in favor of approving the West Coast port worker agreement that runs until 2028. Reuters says longshore workers covered by the agreement are based at some of the busiest seaports in the nation, including the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach, which is the busiest ocean trade gateway in the U.S. “The contract negotiations were protracted and challenging,” says ILWU International President Willie Adams. The union and the Pacific Maritime Association employer group reached a tentative agreement back in June, ending 13 months of talks. The agreement eased worries that more West Coast disruptions could hit the all-important retail holiday shipping season. West Coast ports lost business to others on the East and Gulf Coasts. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in the Weekly Drought Monitor The weekly Drought Monitor showed drought getting worse across areas in the Midwest, South, Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest. In the Midwest, extreme heat impacted areas like Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Record high temps were set in cities like Chicago (98), Milwaukee (101), and Minneapolis (101). Areas in the South, including the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, and Southern Mississippi, saw continued drought-related deterioration on this week’s map. Temperatures continued to push over 100 degrees during the week, breaking records. Houston reached 109, San Antonio hit 104, Austin was 107, and Dallas topped out at 109. Some areas on the map did see some improvement, including southern Texas, where heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harold provided much-needed relief to the region. Rainfall accumulation along the southern Gulf Coast and South Texas Plains regions ranged from two to six inches. In the Southeast, areas of Florida were impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Buying, Looming Harvest, South America Planting Season Get Focus OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 3. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Markets closed Monday: Reminder that commodity markets are closed for the Labor Day weekend on both sides of the U.S./Canada border. Our coverage will pick up late Monday night and DTN subscribers will see updates in our Tuesday Early Word and Before the Bell pieces. 2. Harvest looms: DTN reporters are beginning to hear of fields being opened up in the Corn Belt. Watch for news from the field as it comes in and look for the latest on propane prices and expectations as drying season begins. 3. Land values stay strong: We're continuing to watch land sales after some interesting numbers of late, we'll have additional sales information from the staff and from the pages of Progressive Farmer magazine. 4. Weather eyes shift South: While harvest weather is top of mind, the grain trade is beginning to shift its gaze below the equator as Brazil, Argentina and other South American producers begin to pull planters into the field. Expect continued updates on their weather and prospects from the DTN meteorological team. 5. Seed-buying season: Seed-buying season gets earlier and earlier. The September issue of Progressive Farmer magazine is chock-full of articles to help you think through your choices for next year's seed lineup.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will pay close attention to the latest changes in weather and any news regarding Ukraine and Russia. OPEC is also expected to make an announcement regarding oil production this week. USDA's weekly grain export inspections are due out at 10 a.m. Tuesday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A system and cold front are moving through the Northern Plains early Tuesday with scattered showers, followed by much cooler temperatures. The system will move through the central Corn Belt throughout the day, bringing scattered showers especially to northern areas, but also some isolated showers for other parts of the Corn Belt as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |
USDA Funding Will Help Farmers Lower Energy Costs Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is awarding $266 million in loans and grants to agriculture producers and rural small businesses. The funds will be for making investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements that will lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resilience of their operations. “Creating opportunity for rural communities means investing in farmers, ranchers, and small businesses,” Vilsack says. “These funds will make sure our producers and business owners are not only a part of the clean energy economy but are also directly benefiting from it.” The secretary also says these once-in-a-generation investments in renewable energy, like wind and solar, and energy-efficient technologies create new markets and deliver real cost savings for our small and mid-sized agricultural operations and Main Street businesses, building and keeping wealth in rural America. The department is making the funds available through the Rural Energy for America Program. *********************************************************************************** EPA is Right to Deny Refinery Exemptions Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, filed briefs to intervene in three cases this week to support the Environmental Protection Agency. More specifically, Growth Energy supports the agency’s decisions to deny small-refinery exemptions for refiners who are seeking to avoid complying with their blending obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says petitioners have tried over and over again to avoid complying with the RFS because less biofuel in America’s fuel supply means more money in their pockets. “Thankfully, EPA has continued to rightly deny the exemptions, having demonstrated again and again that refiners have no good reason not to meet their blending obligations,” she says. “In this week’s filings, Growth Energy continues to seek to defend the RFS, which is the nation’s most successful climate policy to date, from any attempts to weaken it.” The filings in each case are available at growthenergy.org. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Now the World’s Biggest Corn Exporter For more than 50 years, U.S. farmers were dominant in the international corn market, far and away shipping more corn than anyone else to help feed the world’s stockpiles and manufacture food. A Bloomberg article says that’s no longer the case. In the agricultural year that ended on August 31, the U.S. gave up that top spot in corn exporting to Brazil, and it might not be coming back in the near future. In the 2023 harvest year, Brazil will dominate the world’s global corn exports at 32 percent, well ahead of the 23 percent of corn shipped by the U.S. into the export market. America has only dropped out of the top spot once, doing so in 2013 because of a severe drought. Losing the lead in corn exports may unfortunately be familiar to U.S. producers, who lost the top spot in soybean and wheat exports during the last ten years. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canadian Cattle Herds Drop Three Percent Downsizing in the U.S. and Canadian cattle herds continued through the first half of 2023. All cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined to total 108 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from the 111 million head on July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 43.4 million head, were down two percent from last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. totaled 95.9 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 38.8 million head, were down two percent from a year ago. All cattle and calves in Canada as of July 1, 2023, totaled 12.2 million head, down one percent from the 12.3 million head on July 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved totaled 4.62 million head, down one percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** World’s Rice Supplies Get Tighter Rice prices are climbing around the world as supplies get tighter. Key exporting countries like Thailand and Vietnam have seen rice prices climb as much as 20 percent since India banned shipments of a key rice variety in July. India is the world’s largest shipper of the grain, and the export ban is squeezing global supplies. Reuters says traders expect similar export cuts by other countries that need to ensure their domestic food security. That’s leaving importers scrambling to acquire other shipments of rice. India banned exports of broken rice last year and imposed a duty on shipments of various grades of rice. That ended price stability that ran for over ten years. India did allow traders to ship out non-basmati white rice cargoes that were stuck in ports when India imposed its export ban. India’s farmers have planted 89.2 million acres of rice, 4.3 percent higher than last year. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to a three-month low while inventories hit the lowest point since November. Ethanol production dropped to an average of 1.007 million barrels a day during the week ending on August 25. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.048 million barrels during the previous week and the lowest level since May 26. In the Midwest, by far the largest-producing region in the country, output dropped to 952,000 barrels a day from 992,000 the prior week. Rocky Mountain production fell by 2,000 barrels a day to 11,000. That was the entirety of the losses as West Coast output was unchanged at 10,000 barrels a day. East Coast and Gulf Coast production each rose by 1,000 barrels per day, coming in at 13,000 barrels a day and 22,000 barrels a day, respectively. Ethanol inventories dropped to 21.61 million barrels, the lowest since November 11.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Indices of world manufacturing activity will come in overnight and the U.S. index is due out at 9 a.m. NASS will report on Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings at 2 p.m. Weather As we begin meteorological fall, temperatures are increasing in the Plains and will continue to spread eastward through the weekend. A small disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico may provide some showers along the central coast, but most areas will stay dry today.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |
U.S. Ag Groups React Negatively to WOTUS Changes U.S. ag groups and elected officials all expressed disappointment with the revised Waters of the U.S. rule issued this week by the Environmental Protection Agency. “The agency failed to open the process to public comment, which would have been extremely valuable,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “These revisions are window dressing and leave in place much of the rule’s confusing and harmful foundations.” Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says they’re disappointed in the agency’s disregard for both the procedural need to invite public input for consideration and for May’s Supreme Court ruling. House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says EPA’s “sleight-of-hand” in circumventing the rulemaking process leaves the door open to agency abuse and uncertainty for U.S. agriculture. Darren Coppock (COP-uhck), president and CEO of the Ag Retailers Association, says this is a missed opportunity by the EPA. *********************************************************************************** Farm Futures Releases 2024 Planting Estimates Farmers are gearing up for the 2023 harvest season with an eye already on next year’s crop. A Farm Futures August survey finds growers are expecting to plant 93.1 million acres of corn in 2024, down one percent from this year’s total acreage. Shrinking revenue prospects amid relatively high costs will likely tighten profit margins for the 2024 crop, giving alternative crops more opportunity for acreage next spring. Soybeans are one crop that farmers expect to plant more of next year. Farmers in the survey expect a two percent increase in soybean acres next spring at a total of 85.4 million acres. Wheat acres are also expected to expand. Winter wheat acres are forecast to be five percent higher at 38.7 million acres, and spring wheat acres will rise eight percent to 52.7 million acres. If those predictions prove true, this would be the largest wheat acreage planted since 2015. *********************************************************************************** Senators Show Opposition to EATS Act In another show of opposition to the EATS Act, 30 senators sent a letter to Ag Committee leaders opposing a sweeping bill to nullify state agricultural laws called the EATS Act. The letter came a week after 172 House members signed a similar letter addressed to House Ag Committee leaders. Over 200 federal lawmakers spanning 35 states have publicly stated that neither the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act nor anything similar should be a part of the upcoming farm bill. “It’s not one state that’s trying to foist its standards on the rest of the country,” says Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “It’s the NPPC that’s trying to force every state to accept the terms of any other state that chooses not to ensure humane safety standards for agricultural products within its borders.” Additionally, 577 veterinary professionals and 78 veterinary students signed letters opposing the EATS Act. *********************************************************************************** Grape Growers Have New Insurance Program Against Natural Hazards The USDA is expanding crop insurance options with a new grapevine insurance program. It will provide coverage for the loss of grafted vines caused by natural perils like frost or fire. The new program will also complement the grape crop insurance program that covers the fruit growing on the vine. “We strive to offer the strongest risk management resources for our nation’s agricultural producers,” says Marcia Bunger, administration of the Risk Management Agency. ‘Sometimes that’s by improving an already existing product or creating a new product like this one to fill a gap.” It’s especially critical when you realize that the loss of fruit can affect a grower for a season, but losing a grapevine is a much costlier situation in terms of the money and time needed to reestablish a productive vine. The program pays losses when the vine is dead or so badly damaged that it won’t recover within a year. *********************************************************************************** Farm Incomes Flatten in the Second Quarter The Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank’s Second Quarter ag credit conditions survey shows that after several strong years of growth, that stalled in 2023. Compared to earlier this year, farm incomes dropped slightly from April through June. Spending on capital equipment also dropped while farm household purchases increased. More than a third of ag bankers surveyed in the Ninth District said farm incomes decreased in the second quarter of this year compared to 2022. Thirty-nine percent of the lenders report that borrower liquidity had dropped in the past three months compared to last year. The Fed also says despite the falling incomes, lenders haven’t seen a boost in loan demand and the rate of loan repayment remained strong. Loan renewals and extensions also remained steady. Farmland values rose, as did cash rents. The third-quarter outlook calls for further farm income declines, though the overall financial conditions are expected to stay relatively stable. *********************************************************************************** Unified Vision Driving Beef Checkoff Success The Federation of State Beef Councils has supported an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership since 1963. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils, continues setting a positive course for beef. Recent program successes include Nutrition Research which serves as the foundation for all Beef Checkoff-funded initiatives. Nutrition research proves beef has a role in a healthy and sustainable diet. The National Beef Quality Audit is the foundational research providing an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors. The 2022 NBQA results showed that the industry is more efficiently producing a high-quality product that consumers want. One of the industry’s top focus areas across the supply chain remains food safety. Cow-calf producers, stockers, and feedyards implement Beef Quality Assurance practices on their operations to produce the highest-quality cattle and the best possible eating experience for consumers.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather With Idalia continuing to move further offshore on Thursday morning, it will be a largely quiet day across most of the U.S. Some isolated showers will be possible across the north and near the Gulf of Mexico, but that should be it. Though still milder in the Eastern Corn Belt, temperatures are starting to rise in the Western Corn Belt, though extreme heat is still a day or two away.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |
EPA and Army Amend “Waters of the United States” Rule The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers Tuesday announced a final rule amending the 2023 definition of “waters of the United States.” The final rule intends to conform with the recent Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. With this action, the Army Corps of Engineers will resume issuing all jurisdictional determinations. The rule will take effect immediately. In response, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “Today’s revised WOTUS definition is an important step toward bringing the EPA more in line with the Supreme Court's ruling." AFBF President Zippy Duvall says the EPA chose to continue government overreach and revise only a small slice of the rule that the Supreme Court rejected. Duvall adds, "We're pleased the vague and confusing 'significant nexus' test has been eliminated as the Supreme Court dictated. But EPA has ignored other clear concerns raised by the Justices, 26 states, and farmers across the country about the rule's failure to respect private property rights and the Clean Water Act." *********************************************************************************** US Cattlemen’s Association Welcomes LIP Update The U.S. Cattlemen's Association applauds recent action by the Department of Agriculture to update the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate. Late last week, USDA announced the payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The payment will apply retroactively to all qualifying losses since January 1, 2023. No action is necessary for retroactive payments, and producers will receive an additional payment if applicable. Payments will be queued up for current losses as early as next week. FSA acknowledged that some animals might have lost weight due to extreme weather conditions, and they are working on how to handle those cases. USCA President Justin Tupper says, "A loss in today's market has a significantly higher impact on a producer's bottom line, and the updated indemnity better reflects the value of that animal," while giving thanks to FSA for the update. *********************************************************************************** Study: US Soybean Industry Has $124 Billion Impact on the Economy A new study from the National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board highlights how the soybean industry impacts the U.S. economy. This 33-page study analyzes the soybean value chain’s impact on the U.S. economy based on data from crop years 2019/20 to 2021/22. The data shows the total economic impact from the U.S. soybean sector averaged $124 billion, including $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from soybean processing. The U.S. soy sector accounts for approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. There are more than 500,000 individuals involved in soy farm decision-making. This includes 223,000 paid, full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 62,000 family members, beyond growers, who reside on farms and are integral to soybean farming operations. The total wage impact of the sector averaged $10 billion. USB Chair and Missouri farmer Meagan Kaiser says, “It’s reaffirming to see that the U.S. soybean industry has such a tremendous impact on U.S. farmers and the economy overall.” *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio names Chris Abbott CEO Pivot Bio Tuesday announced Chris Abbot as its Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. As previously announced, Pivot Bio co-founder and current CEO Karsten Temme will become Chief Innovation Officer. Pivot Bio calls Abbot an industry leader and hands-on strategist who has focused his career on agriculture, water, sustainability, and technology. Pivot Bio Board Chairperson Roger Underwood says, "His commercial acumen, financial know-how, and strong relationships across the agriculture industry are exactly what the company needs at this critical juncture to further accelerate our substantial momentum." The company is also announcing another year of rapid growth, with revenue increasing over 60 percent in fiscal year 2023, surpassing $100 million for the first time. It was the fourth consecutive year of growth for revenue and acres. The company anticipates this momentum to continue in 2024. Pivot Bio also revealed plans to increase manufacturing and distribution across the country to support continued growth and expand customer service for growers. *********************************************************************************** Nearly Half of Potatoes Now go into Frozen Products New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the majority of potatoes in the United States are now sold in processed forms such as frozen, chipped, dehydrated, or canned. With the introduction of french fries as a key side dish in quick-service restaurants, the share of potatoes that go into frozen products has risen in each decade since 1979. As a result, almost half of all potatoes going into food in the United States are now used to create frozen products—most of which are french fries. Meanwhile, the share of potatoes used as fresh table potatoes has declined decade by decade. Per capita frozen potato availability during the pandemic-influenced 2019–21 period, up eight percent from a decade earlier. According to industry data and USDA research in the early 2000s, about 90 percent of frozen french fries move through various food service venues. Quick-service restaurants alone account for about two-thirds of french fry usage. *********************************************************************************** Forest Service Announces Landscape Scale Investments USDA’s Forest Service Tuesday announced it will invest $16.2 million to restore forests across tribal, state and private lands. The funded projects mark the first time the Forest Service will make Landscape Scale Restoration program grants directly available to federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations to restore priority forest landscapes. The Forest Service selected 64 proposed projects for fiscal year 2023 to help Tribes, state agencies, local governments, and partners restore healthy, resilient, climate-adapted forests, including $3 million to restore landscapes on tribal lands. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says, "These grants are critical for improving the nation's forests that provide a range of environmental, social, and economic benefits to the American people." The Landscape Scale Restoration program also supports the Forest Service's ten-year strategy to protect communities from catastrophic wildfires. The Forest Service reviewed project requests from federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations, and selected 11 projects for funding.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will have an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep close watch over weather developments and any news regarding Ukraine. Visit DTN at this week's Farm Progress show in Decatur, Illinois, lot 360 on Third Street. Weather A rather quiet day is in store for most of the country outside of the far southeast. Hurricane Idalia, a Category 4 storm, will move into northern Florida this morning, across southeast Georgia and into the Atlantic later Wednesday and Wednesday night. Heavy rainfall, storm surge, and wind damage can be expected from northern Florida through the eastern Carolinas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |
Vilsack Making Clean Energy Announcement at Farm Progress Show Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend the 2023 Farm Progress Show Wednesday to announce a major investment in clean energy for rural Americans. Wednesday morning, Vilsack will join Representative Nikki Budzinski, an Illinois Democrat, at a meeting of her Agriculture Advisory Council. There, Vilsack will hear firsthand from producers and officials about the state of agriculture in Illinois. Later, Secretary Vilsack will deliver remarks at the main Farm Progress stage. USDA says Vilsack will announce a significant investment to help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and generate income. Vilsack is scheduled to make the announcement at noon central time, which will be livestreamed at farmprogress.com. Meanwhile, Vilsack announced $808 million to help rural cooperatives and utilities build and improve electric infrastructure Monday. The funding will also help provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems in rural areas. The announcement will benefit nearly 480,000 people in 36 states and two U.S. territories. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates Livestock Disaster Payment Rate USDA’s Farm Service Agency updated the Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate recently. The update will support livestock producers in the Midwest who have lost cattle to the extreme heat and humidity experienced this summer. To help indemnify ranchers to reflect a trend towards higher cattle weights in feedlots, the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The program provides benefits to livestock owners and some contract growers for livestock deaths exceeding normal mortality from eligible adverse weather events, certain predation losses and reduced sales prices due to injury from an eligible loss. Indemnity payments are made at a rate of 75 percent of the prior year's average fair market value of the livestock. The updated payment rate is effective immediately and will be applied retroactively starting January 1, 2023, for all eligible causes of loss, including excessive heat, tornado, winter storms, and other qualifying adverse weather. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Farmer-Owned Cooperatives Merger Effective October 1 The merger of Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit Farm Credit cooperatives will be effective October 1, 2023. The merger will create one Farm Credit Association with enhanced marketplace stability, increased funding capacity, and better access to technology. The voting stockholders of Farm Credit of New Mexico re-voted for the proposed merger after a reconsideration process established by the Farm Credit Administration. American AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, "This merger makes us a better partner for our customers." Hudnutt will lead the merged American AgCredit, which will have more than 900 employees. The October 1, 2023, effective merger date is pending final Farm Credit Association approval. American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. Farm Credit of New Mexico is the largest agricultural lender in New Mexico, a $2 billion cooperative specializing in agricultural lending and related services. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Smoothie Program Expands The results of a checkoff-initiated smoothie program pilot showed increased milk and yogurt consumption and will be offered to more schools this fall. Research shows fruit smoothies are more popular than energy drinks, flavored water, juices and soft drinks with Gen Z consumers. Dairy Management Inc. partnered with Chartwells K12, a food management company that serves more than two million meals in 4,500 schools daily, for the pilot last year. The results were encouraging enough for the company to make the smoothie program available to its entire suite of schools this year. General Mills joined the effort by providing culinary support and training, and Hubert, a food service equipment manufacturer, offered blenders and other materials at a discounted rate. Chefs from Chartwells and General Mills collaborated to produce 30 recipes that contain at least one of the daily recommended servings of dairy and fruit. A survey conducted after the pilot showed a very positive response from students, school food service staff and administrators. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Obesity Rates Grew During First Year of Pandemic Regional obesity rates grew further apart during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. From 2019 to March 2020, adult obesity rates ranged from a low of 36.7 percent in the West to the highest rate at 43.1 percent in the South, a 6.4-percentage point difference. The regional differences expanded to 7.2 percentage points during the first year of the pandemic, from a low of 37.4 percent in the Northeast to a high of 44.6 percent in the Midwest. The West had the lowest adult obesity rate before the pandemic but experienced the largest increase of any region during the first year, a 2.8-percentage point increase. The obesity rate increase in the West was nearly twice that in the South, which had the highest regional obesity rate before the pandemic. The Midwest had the second-highest rate before the pandemic, but increased nearly twice as much as the South, emerging as the region with the highest obesity rate as of March 2021. *********************************************************************************** Gas Lower, Diesel Higher, Ahead of Labor Day Weekend For the first time in over a month, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 4.0 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon. The national average is up 5.8 cents from a month ago but 3.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 3.3 cents in the last week to $4.33 per gallon, 70.7 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The drop may be short-lived, as one of the nation's largest refineries partially shut last week after a fire at a storage tank, and as we see more tropical activity that could lead to further disruption." After rallying for seven straight weeks, oil prices have lost some of their luster, much of which can be blamed on continued weakness in China’s economy, and refinery issues in the U.S. limiting how much crude oil refineries will be able to process.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Statistics Canada will have crop estimates out at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by an index of U.S. consumer confidence at 9:00 a.m. CDT. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman discuss weather and markets in the DTN building, Lot 360 at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, Tuesday through Thursday. Weather A small front moving through the Midwest may produce a few showers on Tuesday and a few more may be found in the High Plains, but it should be a rather quiet day. The Southeast will be more active with a front there as the region waits for Hurricane Idalia to build over the next 24 hours prior to landfall in the Big Bend of Florida on Wednesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - New Equipment, Land Rental Rates Out This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 27. 1. From the Show: We'll have a steady stream of news on the latest equipment, seed, chemicals and other inputs from the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois. You can also hear the latest outlooks and chat with DTN journalists and experts in our building at Lot 360 on the show grounds. DTN's Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will give their thoughts on the weather and markets at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. CDT Tuesday and Wednesday, and at 10 a.m. on Thursday. We'll also have experts talk about the new Farmers for Soil Health signups which can earn you up to $50 per acre for cover crops and other soil health practices. DTN is a partner in this USDA-funded project. 2. Farm rental rates: USDA released its latest farmland cash rental rates by county; look for our story that digs into the data to spot the latest land trends. 3. Cooler weather, until it's not: The weekend's cold front, which knocked 15-20 degrees off of some areas of the country, won't bring a lot of rain to help crop recovery. Best rainfall chances are in the eastern Great Lakes states and the Central Plains, the latter thanks to remnants of Tropical Storm Harold. The break from the heat will last about a week, with models showing above-normal temperatures east of the Rockies as the calendar turns to September. 4. Crop harvest begins: Some of the first corn and soybean plots are beginning to come out. Watch for news on some of the early results. 5. Weekly business reports: (Note: all times are CDT) Monday will see USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, we'll have the U.S. consumer confidence index numbers at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, the second-quarter U.S. Gross Domestic Product numbers hit at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then Thursday is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. That Thursday is also the last day of the 2022-23 crop year for the corn and soybean complexes. On Friday, we'll see U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August, due at 7:30 a.m. World manufacturing activity indices come in overnight and the U.S. index is due at 9 a.m. The latest Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings report from NASS is at 2 p.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |
Pro Farmer Releases National Crop Yield Estimates The Pro Farmer Crop Tour recently wrapped up its 2023 expedition after traveling through corn and soybean fields in multiple states. After predicting yield estimates for each state, Pro Farmer puts all the numbers together to come up with its national harvest predictions for corn and soybeans. Pro Farmer predicts a national corn yield of 14.96 billion bushels and an average yield of 172 bushels per acre. The Pro Farmer national soybean yield prediction is 4.11 billion bushels and an average yield of 49.7 bushels an acre. The national estimates reflect Pro Farmer’s views on production and yields. They consider the data gathered and weather conditions during the Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields, and areas outside those sampled on the tour. Based on August FSA-certified acreage data, Pro Farmer increased harvested corn acres by 675,000 from August. They didn’t change the soybean harvested acres. ********************************************************************************** RFA Blasts Panel Report on Ethanol and Emissions The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan blasting the agency’s Science Advisory Board. The RFA accuses the panel of making misleading and unfounded claims about corn ethanol’s impact on greenhouse gas emissions. In draft commentary sent to Regan, the board attempted to downplay the climate benefits of corn ethanol and recommended that the EPA conduct more extensive research on ethanol’s carbon footprint. “The overwhelming evidence of scientific analysis and data clearly show that corn starch ethanol significantly reduces GHG emissions relative to the gasoline it replaces,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We adamantly disagree with the SAB’s statement saying the ‘best available science’ suggests there are minimal, or no climate benefits related to substituting corn ethanol for gasoline.” Cooper also points out that no scientists with biofuels industry experience were invited to participate in the working group when putting the board together. *********************************************************************************** McConnell: Farm Bill Will Be Late Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says Congress will deliver a farm bill, but not likely in September. Roll Call says McConnell told the Kentucky Farm Bureau that Congress is running out of working days on the legislative calendar before the current law expires on September 30. McConnell is one of the highest-ranking members of Congress to admit the timeline for a new farm bill is shifting past September. When asked about reauthorizing the five-year farm bill, McConnell says, “We’ll figure it out.” While the current bill runs out on September 30, it looks like the new deadline for farm legislation will be December 31. On January 1, some American farm policies will revert to 1940s-era controls on production and costly price supports. If the farm bill does get pushed to 2024, a one-year extension becomes likely as it’s a presidential election year, and both parties will battle for Congressional control. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows Spotty Improvement The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor saw improvements in parts of California and Nevada because of the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm brought record-breaking rainfall accumulations and incidents of flash flooding and mudslides. In the Midwest, light precipitation accumulations fell in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and northern Michigan. Drought conditions worsened in areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, where both short and long-term precipitation deficits continue. Areas of Moderate Drought (D1) and Severe Drought (D2) were removed in Michigan. No changes were made this week in the Plains states, while some minor improvements took place in northwest Wyoming, and some conditions worsened in South Central Colorado. While some improvement took place in areas of Kansas and Nebraska, long-term dry signals remain in place through most of the region. In the South, drought-related conditions continued deteriorating as the hot and dry pattern continued across most of the region. *********************************************************************************** Record-Low Number of Federal Wage and Hour Investigations of Farms The Economic Policy Institute says employers routinely underpay farm workers, among other workplace violations, but federal investigations into problems like these have dropped to an all-time low. The institute says that’s likely because of funding and staffing constraints. A new report says Congress must increase funding for labor standards enforcement to protect farmworkers. Since 2000, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen investigations drop by more than 60 percent. The division only has 810 investigators to protect all 165 million workers in the U.S. That means fewer than one percent of farm employers get investigated every year. From 2000 to 2022, H-2A visa program violations accounted for almost half of back wages and civil money penalties owed by farm employers. The EPI wants Congress to stop hobbling the Department of Labor and provide resources for strong investment in farm worker protections. They also want stiffer fines imposed on chronic offenders. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for USDA Trade Mission to Angola USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small will lead the first-ever agribusiness trade mission to Angola from November 28-December 1. The Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters who want to take part. “When it comes to trade opportunity, Sub-Saharan Africa is both promising and often overlooked,” says Torres Small. “The USDA mission to Angola presents an incredible prospect for U.S. food and agricultural exporters to expand and explore new business opportunities.” Angola is one of the largest markets in Africa, and imports make up more than half of its food market. She says that makes it a perfect location for U.S. exporters to introduce more American-made products to African consumers. Angola has a population of almost 36 million people, many of whom are middle and high-income consumers, which means they’re looking for high-quality imported products. In 2022, U.S. food and ag exports to Angola totaled $236.8 million
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest forecasts for signs of rain and any new events regarding Ukraine. Monday will have its usual USDA reports of weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front that crept through the country over the weekend has found itself somewhat stalled across the Southeast on Monday. Scattered showers are forecast there. Another front is dropping south out of Canada and will move through the Midwest Monday night into Tuesday with a few limited showers and a reinforcing snap of cooler air again. Eyes are on the tropics as Tropical Storm Idalia makes its way north into the Gulf of Mexico Monday night as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |
Drought Threatens Shipping on the Panama Canal The Panama Canal is responsible for facilitating trade as 40 percent of worldwide cargo ship traffic uses it to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Marine Insight says almost two-thirds of the canal’s traffic load is either heading to or leaving the United States. The group managing the Canal restricted the number of ships passing through each day, as well as the amount of cargo they could carry. They made the decision because of the decreasing water supply caused by the ongoing drought due to El Niño conditions. That will mean fewer than 34 ships can move through the canal in both directions every day. That’s compared to the 34 to 42 it can handle at peak capacity. The new restrictions are in place until Monday, August 21, and could force companies to find alternative routes. The canal system depends on lakes whose levels are now close to their minimum points. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Publishes 2022 Annual Report Dairy Management, Inc., the planning and management organization running the national dairy checkoff program for America’s dairy farmers and importers posted its 2022 annual report. The report provides checkoff funders and other members of the dairy community with an audited financial report and highlights from 2022 focused on strategies and programs. Those include accelerating dairy sales growth and building trust in dairy foods and dairy farming with youth and other important consumer audiences. “Farmers and importers seek transparency in their checkoff strategies, and the 2022 annual report is a great way to deliver on those expectations,” says Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania farmer and DMI chair. “Our checkoff team works daily to fulfill its goal of building sales and trust in dairy, and this report offers a comprehensive overview of how that plan delivered the results.” More information on the checkoff program’s budget summary and audited financial statements are available at usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** Breakthrough in Fight Against African Swine Fever Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available. *********************************************************************************** NCGA President Testifies on the Value of Atrazine National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG) testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. “NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Potato Exports Break Value and Volume Records America’s potato exports reached record value and volume between July 2022 and June 2023. Export values rose 19 percent to $2.2 billion, and export volume rose almost four percent to 3.3 million metric tons. Those export values increased across all categories, including frozen, fresh, dehydrated, seed, and chips. Double-digit increases in value took place in all categories but seed potatoes. The increase in volume was led by dehydrated potatoes and chips, which rose 25 and 11 percent, respectively. During the year, Mexico became America’s largest potato export market for the first time, followed by Canada and Japan. The entire Mexican market opened to fresh U.S. potato exports in May 2022. The value of exported dehydrated potatoes took the biggest jump, rising 24 percent to reach $257 million. The top destinations for the category were Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Frozen potato exports rose 20 percent in value despite a decrease in volume. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Relaunches its Photo Contest Fields-of-Corn.com, the official photo contest of the National Corn Growers Association is set to relaunch on September 1. Along with a new look that’s built to showcase the rich history of visual storytelling comes a more robust interface for entry. The reboot is just in time for the tenth annual photo contest. “The Fields-of-Corn.com site will house voting for the first time with higher reliability than we had through social media in the past,” says Graphic Communications Manager Beth Musgrove. The contest is open to everyone, and NCGA invites photographers to help tell the story of farming field corn in America. Through this contest, NCGA seeks high-resolution photos to document the rich history of growing corn, captured from seed to harvest as well as the tenacious and hard-working families that grow it. Entries will be accepted through the end of November. Photographers will compete for 26 awards over eight categories.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is due out at 9 a.m. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is expected to speak in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Friday. Knowing energy prices have climbed higher, he will likely mention another rate hike is on the way. Traders continue to pay attention to the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. Weather A pair of fronts across the Corn Belt will be drifting southward on Friday. The extreme heat has ended over northern areas, though it remains hot. The fronts will produce some isolated showers and thunderstorms for the next few days as they move into the South and Southeast. Temperatures will fall back down toward normal after the fronts pass through.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |
FMMO Hearing Heralds Farmer-Led Progress for Dairy Wednesday marked the first day of a once-in-a-generation hearing on federal milk pricing. USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing is underway as dairy producers make their case for changes to the pricing program. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “Thanks to the tireless efforts of dairy farmers and their cooperatives, this industry is poised for progress as Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization is now in sight.” The industry expects five to seven weeks of testimony and discussion on proposals to modernize the FMMO system. Following USDA’s initial presentations, the hearing will then launch into discussions of specific issues placed within the scope of the hearing. After the hearing’s conclusion, entities involved in the hearing then have a period of time to respond to the testimony, followed by a USDA draft decision, then more discussion, and ultimately a vote among dairy farmers on a final proposal, likely in the second half of 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Funding to Support U.S. Specialty Crop Producers USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The grant program provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research. Fiscal year 2023 funding is awarded to the departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. States are encouraged to sub-award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. Funded projects include investing in food safety, specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes, developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops, and pest and disease control. This year's awards mark over $1 billion invested in nearly 12,000 projects supporting the U.S. specialty crop industry. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Supports EPA Refinery Exemption Decisions Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Lowers Rice Trade Forecasts for 2023 and 2024 Global rice trade forecasts for both calendar year 2023 and 2024 are sharply lowered this month. USDA lowered the forecast in response to India's July 20 immediate ban on further sales of select rice varieties, resulting in urgent buying by some importers and rapid Asian price increases. The 2024 global export forecast is lowered 3.4 million tons to 52.9 million, with exports from India lowered 4.0 million tons to 19.0 million. Increased export forecasts for Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, and Vietnam partially offset the 2024 export reduction for India. For 2023, global exports are reduced 1.9 million tons to 53.8 million, with India's export forecast reduced 2.0 million tons to 20.5 million. Import forecasts are lowered for several major importers in Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa for both 2023 and 2024. The 2023/24 production forecast in the U.S. rice market is raised 1 percent to 203.6 million hundredweight, based on a higher yield of 7,700 pounds per acre. *********************************************************************************** Emergency Allotments Central to SNAP Spending Growth During Pandemic USDA’s Economic Research Service says emergency allotments were central to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program spending growth during the pandemic. SNAP participation and inflation-adjusted spending grew each year from fiscal year 2007–13 following the Great Recession and from FY 2019–21 following the COVID-19 pandemic. Average monthly participation increased faster, for longer, and by a greater amount following the Great Recession than during the pandemic, peaking at 47.6 million participants in FY 2013. Emergency allotments were issued as monthly supplements in response to the pandemic, bringing all recipients’ benefits to the maximum allowed each month beginning in 2020. In 2021, emergency allotments and other disaster supplements accounted for $39.2 billion, almost a third of total spending. Excluding spending on emergency allotments and other disaster supplements, total spending was only $81.6 billion in FY 2021, about $15 billion less than FY 2013 spending, adjusting for inflation. Emergency allotments ended in all states in early 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes Child Nutrition Program Integrity Final Rule USDA Wednesday published a final rule on program integrity to ensure that child nutrition programs are properly operated and managed to protect federal funds and taxpayer dollars. The final rule impacts the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Special Milk Program, Summer Food Service Program, and Child and Adult Care Food Program. The final rule introduces targeted flexibilities in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs that streamline monitoring requirements and lower administrative burdens for states. The rule also finalizes provisions in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, that have already been in place. The provisions streamline processes, provide additional resources, and increase accountability. The rule also allows for more efficient use of state agency resources by ensuring that organizations at risk of serious management issues receive more frequent oversight, and that financial transactions are appropriately reviewed. USDA improved the ability to address the rare instances of severe or repeated violations of program requirements in the child nutrition programs.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders remain attentive to the latest weather forecasts. Weather An upper-level dome of high pressure continues to cause extreme heat across the middle of the country for Thursday. The edges of the heat dome are becoming more active, however. We are seeing a slight shift southward of the front across its northern edge, though it will be a system moving through the Canadian Prairies that pushes it southward tonight and tomorrow. On the northeastern edge, heavy rainfall has developed over Ohio this morning. While that may peter out this morning, it will be an area for redevelopment later today
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |
USDA Announces Forest Management Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced $150 million to help underserved and small acreage forest landowners connect to emerging voluntary climate markets. The markets can provide economic opportunities for landowners and incentivize improved forest health and management. The Forest Service Funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. Vilsack announced the funding opportunity at the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Conference. Forests are powerful tools in the fight against climate change, according to USDA, and emerging voluntary private-sector markets are now creating economic incentives to keep forests healthy and productive. However, high acreage requirements and prohibitive start-up costs have caused many small-acreage and underserved private forest owners to be left behind. Without financial incentives, these landowners may not have the resources to manage forests for long-term health and resilience. Without proper management, forests are more susceptible to wildfire, loss of habitat, and reduced water quality. The Forest Service anticipates future funding opportunities, including one specifically targeted to engage tribal nations. *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Free Trade Calls on Presidential Candidates to Prioritize Trade Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns. *********************************************************************************** Youth Employment Trends in the Midwest New research shows labor shortages present persistent challenges for regional economies but can also create opportunities for young workers. The research, published Tuesday on the University of Illinois farmdocDAILY website, shows youth employment can also help employers fill the part-time, low-wage, and often seasonal positions. Generation Z is relatively smaller than the millennial generation. As a result, fewer young people are working because there are simply fewer young people. However, every Midwestern state had a higher labor force participation rate among workers aged 16 to 19 than the nation. The highest levels of youth employment occur in relatively small, rural counties. Additionally, the food service and accommodation industry and the retail sector employ the most young workers. The research concludes that connecting young people to beneficial, rather than exploitative, work opportunities is a critical step in building and sustaining the local labor force, but it also directs them toward opportunities that might lead to a career. *********************************************************************************** New Grants to Support Wild Horse Initiatives New grants from the Bureau of Land Management focus on managing and protecting wild horses and burros on public lands. The federal government awarded grants to six organizations and universities in Colorado, Oregon and Utah. The BLM manages and protects free-roaming wild horses and burros on public lands as required by the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Most herds on public lands are in arid environments and lack natural predators that can control herd growth. The grants are part of efforts to work with community partners on projects that will benefit wild horses and burros and their habitat, including increasing the use of fertility control to slow herd growth. The latest population estimates found more than 82,000 wild horses and burros on BLM-managed public lands. Though down from a record high in 2020, this population is more than three times the level that is healthy for the herds and their habitat. *********************************************************************************** Cotton Board Elects New Officers The Cotton Board recently elected a new slate of officers to serve one-year terms. During its Business Session, The Cotton Board elected Mark Nichols, a cotton producer from Altus, Oklahoma, to serve as Chairman of the Board. Nichols is the President of Jess Mark Nichols Farms, Inc. and President of Hess Farms, Inc., a fourth-generation farm he has managed since 1980. He farms with his brother-in-law, son, and son-in-law, growing irrigated cotton, wheat, and milo. Nichols commented on his new role, " During the upcoming year, we will continue to work closely with Cotton Incorporated to ensure our industry is moving forward and leading the way to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton." Other elected officers are Akiko Inui (ah-kee-koh in-you) of New York as Vice Chairman, Matt Famer of Texas as Secretary, and Rusty Darby of South Carolina as Treasurer. The Cotton Board is funded by the cotton checkoff, with efforts managed by Cotton Incorporated. *********************************************************************************** California Continues to Lead U.S. Peach Harvest While Georgia is on many consumers' minds when it comes to fresh, juicy peaches, California is by far the largest peach-producing state in the United States. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that last year, California's harvest yielded 475,000 tons of fruit, with South Carolina a distant second at 67,400 tons, and Georgia in third place with production at 24,800 tons. California has been the leading producer of freestone peaches for the fresh market and clingstone peaches for processing. However, the state's peach production has been trending lower for almost two decades, contributing to an overall drop in U.S. peach production. Total production in the United States in 2022 was estimated at 625,680 tons, eight percent smaller than the crop in 2019. In 2022, California’s peach harvest was about five percent smaller than in 2019 and nearly 27 percent lower than ten years earlier. USDA forecasts 2023 peach production 13 percent lower than last year.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in July is set for 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine. Weather A dome of heat continues to bake the middle of the country with records likely to be broken again today. The remnants of Tropical Storm Harold will continue through the Rio Grande Valley and into the Four Corners area today and across the north, a front may be active with showers, especially for the eastern Great Lakes. Otherwise, the heat comes with complete dryness as soil moisture continues to rapidly evaporate.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |
USDA Announces Nearly $700 Million in Rural Broadband Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced nearly $700 million in grants and loans as part of USDA’s ReConect Program. The funding will connect thousands of rural residents, farmers and business owners in 22 states to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. Vilsack says, “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs along the way.” The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program, as the program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030. Funding for this round of grants comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and includes $667 million of funded projects. A full list of funded projects is available on USDA's Rural Development website. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Partners: Strong Market Still Adding Value Farmland values across the country climbed this year and hit record levels despite challenges like rising interest rates and extreme weather, according to data from the federal government. The Department of Agriculture found that U.S. farm real estate values, which includes all land and buildings on farms, increased 7.4 percent over the past year. Cropland values have grown 8.1 percent since 2022. Nationwide value of farm real estate and cropland also increased sharply from 2021 to 2022, 12.4 percent and 14.3 percent, respectively. Additional reports from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, confirm the USDA data. Farmland Partners Inc. President and CEO Luca Fabbri says, "These studies and similar reports coming from farm country show that the farmland market is still strong and adding value." Farmland Partners is an internally managed real estate that owns and/or manages nearly 186,000 acres in 20 states. *********************************************************************************** USTR Tai Visiting Indonesia, India U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Indonesia's Minister of Trade Monday. Tai and Zulkifli Hasan discussed progress through the U.S.-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement Work Plan, including issues related to trade facilitation, standards and the digital economy. Ambassador Tai and Minister Hasan also discussed progress and updates on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The ministers also discussed the U.S.-Indonesia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Ambassador Tai noted that the United States views this TIFA as an important mechanism for discussing bilateral trade issues. Later this week, Tai will travel to India for the G20 Trade & Investment Ministers' Meeting. Tai will also meet with business leaders and hold bilateral meetings with government officials. The meetings follow last week’s effort with Taiwan, as USR and Taiwan held an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade in Washington, D.C. *********************************************************************************** Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act. Led by Colorado Democrat Micheal Benet, a bipartisan group of Senators introduced the bill that would improve the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program. The bipartisan legislation would streamline the planning and administration processes to enable more watershed-wide projects, shift decision-making to local NRCS staff, expand program eligibility, and allow federal funding to count toward state and local match requirements. The bill also prioritizes projects with multiple conservation and public benefits and makes drought resilience an explicit purpose of the program. With more frequent and severe drought and flooding, farmers and ranchers are using the program to mitigate the effects of these natural disasters through watershed improvement projects. However, the lawmakers say as demand for this program grows, inadequate funding and burdensome red tape keeps applicants from accessing its full benefits. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposal to Strengthen Horse Protection Act USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks public input on a proposed rule to strengthen Horse Protection Act requirements. Announced last week, the proposed changes aim to eliminate horse soring, a cruel and inhumane practice that gives horse owners and trainers an unfair advantage in walking horse competitions. Walking horses are known for possessing a naturally high gait, but to be more successful in competitions, some owners and trainers use improper training methods to exaggerate a horse's gait. The methods may cause the horse to suffer from physical pain, distress, inflammation, or lameness while walking and moving. USDA's Jenny Lester-Moffitt says, "By strengthening the HPA regulations, we can all work to eliminate soring, which will improve the welfare of horses competing in these shows and level the competitive playing field.” You can submit comments by searching for the proposal at regulations.gov. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 20, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for CattleCon24 Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry's largest event of the year. It's "Onward to Orlando," where cattle producers from across the country will gather, January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers and family fun. Kristin Torres of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association says, "By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon." Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities, including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshop, sessions featuring guest speakers on the NCBA Trade Show floor and the 31st annual Cattlemen's College. Cattlemen's College is being reimagined in 2024 with classroom sessions and hands-on demonstrations throughout all three days of CattleCon. Also new are trade show cooking demos and a beef culinary tour. A variety of ticket packages are available, as well as payment plan options. Visit convention.ncba.org to learn more.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. existing home sales for July is set for 9:90 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather developments and keep track of news regarding Ukraine. Weather The most intense section of the heat wave starts on Tuesday with widespread 90s and triple-digit temperatures across the middle of the country, which will be in place through Thursday. The outer edges of the heat will continue to be active with showers in the west and far north and across Texas with Tropical Storm Harold moving through.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |
Farmland Values Resilient as Economy Moderates Strength in farm real estate values persisted in the second quarter despite some moderation in the farm economy and higher interest rates. The Kansas City Federal Reserve says growth in farmland values eased from the surge in recent years but remained strong through the first half of 2023. Broad strength in farm finances during recent years throughout the district continued supporting agricultural credit conditions. Margins for many commodities have thinned in recent months alongside elevated production costs and softening prices. Farm loan performance remained historically strong through early 2023, and liquidity levels at many agricultural banks were well-positioned to meet growth in lending demand that could be on the horizon. Farm incomes moderated in all the participating Districts during the second quarter. Following almost two years of considerable strength, improvement in farm income waned according to Federal Reserve Surveys of Ag Credit Conditions. Loan demand remained subdued despite moderating incomes. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Support USTR in Mexican Trade Dispute The U.S. Trade Representative requested a panel formation under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over Mexico’s decision to ban imports of biotech corn used in human consumption. “Mexico’s decree runs counter to scientific findings and is in direct violation of USMCA, which negatively impacts American corn growers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the U.S. and Mexico have had a long and productive relationship. “It’s our number one market for U.S. corn, and we support this action because it will likely be the quickest way to make sure the positive relationship continues in the future.” Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group appreciates U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai for her continued commitment to holding Mexico to its agreements under USMCA. “America’s farmers are upholding their obligations by meeting demand while achieving important sustainability goals,” says Duvall. “Mexico must do the same thing.” *********************************************************************************** Most Cow-Calf Operations Remain Small Most cow-calf operations in the U.S. remain relatively small and have fewer than 50 cows. USDA says at the other end of the spectrum, a few very large operations with more than 1,000 cows can be found. USDA data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Ag Census indicates that between 1997 and 2017, most cow-calf operations remained small. In 2017, 54 percent of farms with beef cows had fewer than 20 animals, down slightly from 1997. However, during the two decades, the overall number of cow-calf operations in the U.S. dropped by 19 percent, while the average herd size on the remaining operations grew. These changes in farm numbers and herd sizes, while notable, haven’t been as significant as industry shifts in hog and dairy production. The combination of relatively lower cow-calf-specific startup costs and pasture as a primary source of feed has resulted in a variety of operation sizes. *********************************************************************************** India’s Rice Export Ban Has Benefits and Challenges for U.S. Growers America’s rice producers and exporters will benefit from India’s recent decision to ban exports of white rice as global demand for U.S. rice will likely rise. The higher world demand will temporarily lift prices for U.S. rice growers, and the industry is well-positioned to meet higher demand for exports. However, CoBank says the short-term benefits of India’s rice export ban will give way to the longer-term consequence of an oversupplied global market and severe price correction when the ban is eventually reversed. New research from CoBank’s Global Knowledge Exchange says higher global rice prices resulting from the export ban will push other countries to expand rice production, increasing global supplies. When India does lift its export ban, the country’s surplus of rice will get dumped on the world export market. That means world rice prices will overcorrect from the sudden boost in supplies. India’s government imposed the ban on July 20. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows a Mix of Dry Weather and Recent Rainfall The latest Weekly Drought Monitor showed similar conditions to last week. Above-normal temperatures and mostly-dry weather continued through parts of Texas and into the lower Mississippi Valley, where ongoing drought conditions continued deteriorating. Drought intensified in eastern Texas, Louisiana, and south-central Mississippi. Increasing short-term drought continued across Arizona, New Mexico, and southwest Colorado. Frequent rounds of heavy rainfall occurred from the Northeast into the Central Mississippi Valley and into southern Missouri and the Upper Midwest. The continued wet conditions are improving drought across parts of the Corn Belt and much of the southern and central Midwest. Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois saw continuing improvement, with D1 removal from Ohio and Indiana. Farther north, drought continued to intensify across northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. Eastern parts of the High Plains saw continued precipitation and below-normal temperatures. Kansas saw heavy precipitation continue from last week, further improving the east and central regions. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Move Higher Corn sales to overseas buyers for this current marketing year improved in the seven days ending on August 10. USDA data shows that soybean export sales declined during the same period last year. Exporters sold 233,500 metric tons of corn for delivery for 2022-2023, up 55 percent from the previous week and 16 percent above the prior four-week average. In its weekly Export Sales report, the agency says the top three buyers were all unknown destinations. Sales for delivery in the 2023-2024 marketing year that starts September 1 totaled 704,700 metric tons. Soybean sales were 77 percent lower week-over-week and down 42 percent from the four-week average to 93,600 metric tons for 2022-2023. Sales for delivery in 2023-2024 totaled over 1,400,000 metric tons. Wheat sales for the current marketing year dropped 37 percent from the previous week but were up three percent from the four-week average to 359,500 metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Crop Rebound, Pipelines all on Tap This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 20. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Rebound crop: There seems little letup on the ongoing discussion on how well the 2023 corn and soybean crops have rebounded following recent rains. We'll continue to have reports from the field as we track grain fill and pod set, leading up the USDA's next World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report Sept. 12. If you participated in our DTN Summit Series event Aug. 15, you know Gro Intelligence added a bit to the 177-bushel-per-acre average estimate on corn revealed during our Digital Yield Tour the week prior. Will those yields hold through August? Stay tuned. 2. Weather: The wall of hot weather taking hold across the country will be the most-watched weather factor, but we're also tracking Hurricane Hilary as it moves onto the West Coast and potentially up into the Pacific Northwest and Idaho, and on into the Canadian Prairies. An early view on the hurricane can be found in our Ag Weather Forum blog; watch for updates in that space as well. . 3. Pipeline dreams: Tuesday marks the beginning of hearings on the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline, which is proposed to cross Iowa and into North Dakota. Summit wants to pipe carbon dioxide to be injected into the Bakken geology formation. The Iowa Utilities Board will hold a hearing in Fort Dodge to discuss the pipeline's permit, including Summit's request for eminent domain rights on parcels of land that have not signed easements. 4. Broadband update: USDA scheduled an update on its investments in rural broadband, something we watch closely here at DTN. We should have results of the latest report early in the week. 5. Weekly reports of note: Monday we'll have USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, USA Crop Progress report comes in at 3 p.m. Tuesday morning we'll see U.S. existing home sales for July, with new home sales numbers out Wednesday. Wednesday also sees U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then, Thursday features USDA weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. On Friday is the University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding shipments of grain from Ukraine. USDA will have its usual weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A dome of heat has parked itself across the middle of the country and will be turning it up on Monday with significantly high readings and near-records in some areas between the Rockies and Appalachians. Western states continue to deal with heavy rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Hilary as it moves north through the region.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |
U.S. Establishes Dispute Panel on Mexico’s Biotech Measures U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States is establishing a dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The U.S. is challenging Mexico’s measures on biotech corn. Mexico set rules in place during a decree in February that banned the use of biotech corn in tortillas or dough. The Mexican government also instructed its agencies to gradually substitute – i.e., ban – the use of biotech corn in all products for human consumption and for animal feed. Mexico’s measures aren’t based on science and undermine the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA. “The United States has used the tools provided by the USMCA in attempting to resolve concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology measures,” says Tai. “We’re taking the next step in enforcing Mexico’s obligations under the agreement.” She also says Mexico’s approach to biotechnology isn’t based on science and runs counter to decades worth of evidence clearly demonstrating its safety. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Exports to Hit 52-Year Low The U.S. Department of Agriculture says America’s all-wheat exports are projected to be 700 million bushels, the lowest level since the 1971-1972 marketing year. That’s a 25-million-bushel reduction from the prior month’s forecast. Despite an increase in Hard Red Winter Wheat production, exports are cut 25 million bushels to 165 million, the lowest level since by-class supply and utilization records began in 1972-1974. U.S. exports of HRW remain uncompetitive on the global market as shown by shipment and sales data. HRW exports in June were 10 million bushels, down from 19.2 million bushels in June 2022. Using data for the Foreign Agricultural Service’s Export Sales Reporting, all-wheat U.S. total commitments are about 6.4 million metric tons as of August 3, down 26 percent from the same point last year. It’s also 37 percent below the recent ten-year average at this point. HRW total commitments are 53 percent lower compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Johnson Introduces Bill to Reinstate MCOOL U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act to bring clarity and to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef products. “Consumers don’t know where their beef comes from,” Johnson says. “It could be South Dakota, Brazil, or Canada. U.S. producers raise better beef, and they’re not getting credit for it.” The act will direct the U.S. Trade Representative and Ag Secretary to work together to determine a process of reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. It also directs the U.S. Trade Rep to consult with the Canadian and Mexican governments to resolve the outstanding MCOOL trade disputes the two countries have open against the U.S. “This bill is a step in the right direction to get accurate labels back on these products to increase consumer confidence in American-made and grown products,” Johnson adds. *********************************************************************************** Investments to Growing Animal Feed Indoors Forever Feed Technologies announced a multimillion-dollar investment from a renowned group of dairy and agricultural leaders to develop sustainable automated indoor-growing feed mills. The climate-controlled technology will greatly reduce water, land usage, and methane emissions in helping the industry reach its goal of being “climate neutral by 2050. The new investment funds will go to building the largest and most reliably controlled environmental mills, capable of feeding thousands of animals with fresh high-quality feed year-round. In turn, that helps producers to responsibly expand their operations to meet growing demands. Steve Lindsley, Forever Feed Technologies CEO, says, “We’re pleased to have assembled some of the most respected dairy and agricultural leaders in the country to participate in our funding round. Forever Feed is committed to building world class water-saving technology that will allow our customers to sustainably grow cattle feed 365 days a year anywhere in the world.” Information is available at foreverfeed.tech. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Organizations Support Recent Food for Peace Donation Organizations representing Pacific Northwest wheat growers and the U.S. milling industry are celebrating the latest Food for Peace donation of 28,000 metric tons of soft white wheat. U.S. wheat farmers, U.S. Wheat Associates, the National Association of Wheat Growers, and the North American Millers’ Association have partnered with the U.S. international food assistance program for 70 years. Since 2020, America has donated more than one million metric tons of wheat and millions of dollars in food aid every year. The soft white wheat donation was grown in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Wheat growers and the milling industry applauded the introduction of the American Farmers Feed the World Act last June. It would “put the food back into food aid” by restoring Food for Peace to its roots as a purely in-kind commodity donation program and require at least half of all Food for Peace funds be used to buy American commodities. *********************************************************************************** CattleCon24 Registration Opens Early Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry’s largest event of the year. “It’s “Onward to Orlando,” where cattle producers from across the country will gather January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers, and family fun. “By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon,” says Kristin Torres, executive director of meetings and events with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Orlando and the surrounding areas offer a variety of family-friendly activities, and we want attendees to take advantage of a great location.” Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshops, guest speakers on the trade show floor, and the 31st annual Cattlemen’s College. Leaders in sustainability, quality, and cattle feeding will get recognized during a stewardship program reception.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle-on feed report for August 1 at 2 p.m. CDT is the only significant report of the day. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine's efforts to ship grain, while under attack. Weather A hot ridge is moving into the Plains and bringing the heat on Friday. Cooler temperatures in the Midwest will only be temporary as the heat spreads over the weekend. Western areas are on the watch for Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to induce flooding rains for California and the Desert Southwest over the weekend into early next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |
Fertilizer Prices Continue Decline Fertilizer prices have continued their more than year-long decline through the first two weeks of August 2023. The University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY website shows that on a per pound of nitrogen basis, urea and liquid nitrogen fertilizers have historically been priced at a premium of 35 to 40 percent above anhydrous ammonia. However, the premium narrowed in 2022 as the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted global fertilizer markets. The premium on liquid, relative to anhydrous, has returned to more historical levels while the gap has continued to narrow between urea and anhydrous prices. This is attributed to continued expansion in global production capacity combined with lower demand prospects. The continued decline in fertilizer prices improves return and income prospects as we look ahead to soon-to-be-released crop budgets for 2024. If the low premium on urea relative to anhydrous extends into the coming months, it may make urea a more attractive nitrogen option for farmers in 2024. *********************************************************************************** US Welcomes WTO Report on China Trade Retaliations The U.S. Trade Representative's Office welcomed a report from the World Trade Organization calling U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs justified for security reasons. The WTO report recognized that U.S. Section 232 actions on steel and aluminum are security measures, and that China illegally retaliated with sham "safeguard" tariffs. The panel rejected China's argument that the U.S. Section 232 actions are safeguard measures that may be "rebalanced" under WTO rules. However, officials from China called on the U.S. to lift the tariffs imposed on Chinese products following the report. China's commerce ministry claims the root cause lies in "the unilateralist and protectionist" nature of the United States. China maintains that its actions "are a legitimate move to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests." Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases August Oil Crops Outlook USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service published its first survey-based forecast of the 2023/24 U.S. soybean yield this month. At 50.9 bushels per acre, the current soybean yield forecast is down 1.1 bushels per acre from last month. The soybean crush forecast is unchanged at 2.3 billion bushels, supported by the greater demand for soybean oil and domestic soybean crush capacity expansion. A waning supply of canola oil and drought conditions in Canada and the United States have elevated prices for both old and new crop soybean oil. The average soybean oil price is forecast at 62.0 cents per pound, up 2.0 cents from last month but down from a revised 2022/23 price of 65.0 cents per pound. Soybean oil used for biofuels production supports strong domestic demand. In contrast, domestic soybean meal demand is lower than expected as livestock growth is slower than anticipated. USDA lowered the forecast for domestic soybean meal demand by .25 million short tons to 39.73 million short tons. *********************************************************************************** New Falling Number Test Prevents Wheat Contamination As wheat harvesting season comes to an end, farmers brace for a potential threat to their crop that costs tens of millions of dollars each year. High levels of alpha-amylase (am-uh-laze) protein in wheat can lead to a low falling number score, a factor that determines the quality and price of wheat. If growers cannot detect wheat with a low falling number, the wheat may mix with sound wheat on farms, in grain elevators or during transport, compromising the entire bushel. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research is awarding a $835,800 Seeding Solutions grant to Washington State University to develop a faster, cheaper and more accurate test, to prevent mixing of low and high falling number wheat. The current falling number test, developed almost 70 years ago, is slow, expensive, exhibits high variability and does not assess alpha-amylase levels directly. In addition to developing new rapid tests, the grant also includes developing an early warning system to alert grain handlers to weather patterns likely to cause spikes in alpha-amylase. *********************************************************************************** Adult Obesity Rates Increased During First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows that adult obesity increased during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Broad efforts to contain COVID-19 included travel, work, and social restrictions. Such behavioral adjustments disrupted the dietary and activity patterns of U.S. adults. The percentage of adults with obesity was 40.7 percent in early 2020. One year later, the rate grew by 1.8 percentage points to 42.5 percent. There was not an immediate, substantial increase when the pandemic began. Rather, the obesity rate was statistically indistinguishable from the pre-pandemic prevalence during the first three months of the pandemic, March–May 2020, at 40.8 percent. The next three time periods saw statistically significant increases relative to the baseline pre-pandemic period. The total obesity rate increase from March 2020 to March 2021 was more than triple the average yearly growth rate of 0.5 percentage points in the preceding decade, 2011–2019. *********************************************************************************** Ag Lenders Donate to Hawaii Relief Efforts Farm Credit Association American AgCredit, rural banking partner CoBank, and The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, also known as Farmer Mac, are donating $40,000 to Maui Food Bank to help aid during the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Hawaii. AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, “When natural disasters impact the communities in which we live and work, we stand ready to support.” CoBank’s Brenda Frank adds, “The contribution to the Maui Food Bank is intended to address the immediate needs and reduce suffering of those impacted by the wildfires in Maui.” Farm Credit has had a presence in Hawaii for over 50 years. The association has been a strong provider of financial support to Hawaiian farmers and ranchers. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says he intends to ensure people in the state have "everything they need" to recover. Biden plans to visit the area Monday. More than 100 deaths were reported, with 1,300 people still missing following the wildfires.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. leading indicators for July are at 9 a.m. and the U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook follows at 2 p.m. Weather A front is pushing a line of showers and thunderstorms through the Great Lakes on Thursday, some of which could be stronger. Temperatures behind the front are going to be briefly cool while heat in the West starts to bulge out into more of the Plains. Drier conditions are expected for most other areas except in the West, which is seeing monsoon showers increasing ahead of the potential flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary that will move in this weekend and early next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |
Thompson: Farm Bill Extension Likely House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says, "We're probably going to need an extension," referring to the timing of the 2023 Farm Bill. At a listening session in Missouri this week, the Pennsylvania Republican acknowledged that "the clock is ticking," with the current farm bill set to expire at the end of the fiscal year, September 30. The event is one of many held by the committee that Thompson calls a "perpetual barnstorming tour" across rural America. The House Agriculture Committee is expected to release a draft version of the 2023 Farm Bill, possibly by the end of the month, according to Thompson. The chairman says, "There's a lot of competition" for time on the House floor next month, with appropriations bills still needing attention, as well. However, any continuing resolution would likely have a farm-bill extension included. Thompson adds, "I hope it's a very short extension," if one is needed. *********************************************************************************** Plant-Based Meat Alternatives Sales Declining U.S. consumers remain interested in plant-based meat alternatives, but higher prices have led many prospective return consumers to taper off their purchases. Plant-based meats are often several dollars a pound higher than equivalent meat and poultry products. Beyond cost, lingering negative perceptions surrounding taste, value and versatility are also obstacles the category has yet to overcome. According to a new report from CoBank, the market for plant-based meats has likely reached a tipping point as the initial period of exceptional sales growth appears to be over. Plant-based meat sales peaked in 2020 when consumers had more discretionary income and were curious about broadening their food spend in the wake of pandemic-era food shortages. But fewer than half of Americans who tried the products at the time repeated their purchase. Sales of meat alternatives have fallen steadily since 2021 and more sharply over the last year. Volume sales dropped 20.9 percent for the 52-week period ending July 2, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers Disaster Program Flexibilities for Flood-Impacted Producers USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency authorized flexibilities for disaster assistance programs and crop insurance to aid Northeast farmers impacted by flooding this year. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “The production and physical losses to flooding have devastated farmers and ranchers in the Northeast.” Bonnie visited the region this week, announcing that “USDA is committed to assisting these producers in their ongoing recovery efforts.” FSA has authorized policy exceptions in all flood-impacted counties in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The flexibilities apply to Farm Storage Facility Loans, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, and other programs and efforts. Additionally, Producers experiencing financial hardships and finding themselves behind on their FSA Marketing Assistance Loan repayment should contact their USDA Service Center to discuss repayment concerns with FSA staff. *********************************************************************************** Variable Rate Technology Adoption Increasing New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows variable rate technology adoption is on the rise. Farmers use variable rate technologies to control the amount of farm inputs—such as seed, fertilizer, and chemicals—applied as farm machinery moves across a field. Data from USDA’s Agricultural Resource Management Survey show that initial adoption in the late 1990s and early 2000s was sluggish, remaining below ten percent of planted acres for several field crops. However, adoption rates for corn and cotton have increased markedly over the last decade. The adoption rate for corn stood at 37.4 percent of planted acres in 2016, up from 11.5 percent in 2005. Cotton acreage showed a similar increase, rising from 5.4 percent in 2007 to 22.7 percent in 2019. Recent adoption rates across other crops included 13.9 percent for sorghum in 2019, 18.8 percent of winter wheat planted acres in 2017, and 25.3 percent of soybean-planted acres in 2018. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Open Urban Service Center in Philadelphia The Department of Agriculture is opening a new Urban Service Center in Philadelphia as part of a broader effort to support urban agriculture in Pennsylvania. NRCS Pennsylvania State Conservationist Denise Coleman says, “Every producer deserves USDA support in their own community, whether that community is urban or rural. The Urban Service Center in Philadelphia is one of 17 across the country. The Urban Service Centers are staffed by Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency employees. The facilities offer farm loan, conservation, disaster assistance and risk management programs. USDA works with agricultural producers through a network of more than 2,300 Service Centers nationwide, and the new Urban Service Centers will strengthen services to urban producers, according to the department. The Philadelphia Urban USDA Service Center will open the week of August 21, 2023. To learn more about Urban Service Centers, or to find a location near you, visit farmers.gov/urban. *********************************************************************************** Tractor Supply Company to Host National Farmers Market Tractor Supply Company, the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, will host a nationwide Farmers Market on Saturday, August 19 in all of the retailer's 2,100+ communities. The event will showcase the talent and products of local farmers, growers, craft makers, artisans and other producers. Customers and community members are invited to stop by, explore the wide range of offerings and support their neighbors by purchasing homemade and homegrown goods and products. The free event takes place outside Tractor Supply stores nationwide, with local vendors selling products like fresh fruit and vegetables, arts and crafts, accessories, specialty food and drink and more. Although registration for local sellers is closed, customers can contact their local store for additional information regarding partners and activities. As of July 1, 2023, the Company operated 2,181 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states, including 81 stores acquired from Orscheln Farm and Home in 2022 that will be rebranded to Tractor Supply by the end of 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in July is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by U.S. industrial production in July at 8:15 a.m. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will follow at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to check the latest weather forecasts and follow the news from Ukraine. Weather An overall quiet day is in store for most of the country. But a system going through Canada will send a cold front through the Upper Midwest on Wednesday. The front could produce some showers and thunderstorms and also bring some breezy winds as it works through.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |
APHIS Proposal to Strengthen Quarantine and Inspection Program USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is seeking comments on a proposed rule to amend regulations governing its Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection program user fees. APHIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection jointly administer the program, ensuring that cargo and passenger baggage entering the country is inspected for plant pests and potential sources of animal diseases that could affect U.S. agriculture, trade and commerce. Foreign pests and diseases can devastate U.S. agriculture and the broader U.S. economy, and the AQI program is highly successful at preventing such disruptions. Fees for the AQI program were last updated in 2015. The outdated fee structure and recent changes in international travel and shipping mean that current fees do not generate enough revenue to cover the costs of the AQI services provided. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 10, 2023. Go to www.regulations.gov to search for the proposal and comment. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing Additional Assistance to Loan Borrowers Facing Financial Risk The Department of Agriculture is providing additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying guaranteed Farm Loan Programs borrowers who are facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help certain distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The financial assistance included in today's announcement will provide a fresh start for distressed borrowers with guaranteed farm loans and will give them the opportunity to generate long-term stability and success." Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed in August 2022, USDA has provided approximately $1.15 billion in assistance to more than 20,000 distressed borrowers as a part of an ongoing effort to keep borrowers farming. The additional financial assistance will provide qualifying distressed guaranteed loan borrowers with financial assistance similar to what was already provided to distressed direct loan borrowers. Based on current analysis, the financial assistance will assist an estimated approximately 3,500 eligible borrowers, subject to change as payments are finalized. *********************************************************************************** Income Spent on Food Increased 13% in 2022 U.S. consumers spent an average of 11.3 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2022, a level not observed since the 1980s, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Disposable personal income is the amount of money consumers have left to spend or save after paying taxes. Consumers spent 5.62 percent of their incomes on food at supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse club stores, supercenters, and other retailers in 2022 and 5.64 percent on food at restaurants, fast-food establishments, schools, and other places offering food away from home. In 2022, the share spent on total food had the sharpest annual increase, 12.7 percent. This followed an 8.2-percent decline, the sharpest annual drop in total food spending since 1967, during the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The recent volatility in spending was driven by consumers’ sudden drop in eating out at the beginning of the pandemic followed by a return to food-away-from-home purchases as pandemic-related restrictions and concerns eased. *********************************************************************************** Training Available to Help Producers Manage Phosphorus Losses A series of online training modules is now freely available to farmers, interested in designing on-farm systems to remove phosphorus from field runoff or subsurface drainage. Available on the Internet, the modules comprise seven narrated videos, starting with a basic overview of the need for phosphorus removal systems, followed by how to design, build and install them, as well as how to properly dispose of or recycle the absorbent materials used to help capture the nutrient in drainage water and runoff. Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for optimal plant growth, health and yield. However, phosphorus that leaves agricultural fields in runoff or drainage water can accumulate in bodies of surface water, like rivers and lakes. Management practices and engineered systems that prevent phosphorus loss are vital to maintaining environmental quality. The modules can help users navigate their way through the process, as well as provide “lessons learned” from the field. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Encouraged to Apply for Beef Industry Scholarships The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. Established in 2007, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing meat science and animal agriculture careers. Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. Scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work but also the entire industry. Graduate students must apply online by submitting a cover letter, goals and experience, a short essay, statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant's graduate research and three letters of recommendation by September 22, 2023. The 2023 scholarship recipients will be recognized at CattleCon 2024. The scholarship honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker known for his extraordinary vision. For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Rise Again For the fifth straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 2.5 cents from a week ago to $3.82 per gallon. The national average is up 29.1 cents from a month ago but 9.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 12.3 cents last week and stands at $4.270 per gallon, 77.3 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says prices "could climb slightly higher as we get closer to Labor Day, as oil prices remain under pressure from recent OPEC+ production cuts." Gasoline prices stand just over a dime away from rising back above their year-ago level—something that is possible by the closing summer holiday. In addition, the largest refinery in the Midwest moved up its seasonal maintenance to several weeks earlier than expected, causing a somewhat unexpected jump at the pump in the Great Lakes.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by the start of DTN's Ag Summit Series at 8:30 a.m. Soybean crush estimates from members of the National Soybean Processors Association will follow later Tuesday morning. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A low-pressure center continues to spin around Michigan and will produce areas of showers there and over the far eastern Midwest on Tuesday, but the focus for showers will be along the East Coast. Quieter and relatively cooler air is flowing through more of the country behind it, though hotter temperatures in the Pacific Northwest are leaking out into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 14, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather data and forecasts. Any news from the Black Sea is also high on the list. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT and USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather A storm system that plowed through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest over the weekend continues eastward for Monday, spreading areas of showers and thunderstorms and heavy rain to portions of the Eastern Corn Belt. Some severe weathe
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |
U.S. Pork Exports Outstanding in First Half of 2023 U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half of the year with another strong performance in June. Pork exports in June hit almost 246,000 metric tons, 12 percent higher than in 2022. Export value rose six percent to $691.4 million. Through the first half of 2023, exports were 14 percent above last year’s pace at 1.47 million metric tons and valued at $4.05 billion, 12 percent higher than in 2022. “While Mexico is the pacesetter for U.S. pork exports, what’s exciting is the industry is achieving broad-based growth internationally,” says USMEF president and CEO Dan Halstrom. While below last year’s record pace, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to almost $5 billion. June’s beef exports totaled 115,107 metric tons, down 12 percent from a year ago and slightly below the May volume. Value was $905.5 million. First-half beef exports were 10 percent behind last year. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Positive Economic Impact of Soil Health The Soil Health Institute and the National Association of Conservation Districts announced the results of a nationwide study showing how improving soil health can improve a farmer’s profitability. The study shows farmers can build resilience across a diversity of soil types, geographies, and cropping systems. Among the key findings across 29 farms, Soil Health Management Systems increased net farm income by an average of $65 per acre. On average, when implementing soil health systems, it costs producers $14 an acre less to grow corn, $7 an acre less to grow soybeans, and $16 an acre less to grow all other crops. Yield increases were reported for 42 percent of farms growing corn, 32 percent of farms growing soybeans, and 35 percent of farms growing other crops. Farmers reported additional benefits like decreased erosion and soil compaction, earlier access to fields in wet years, and increased resilience to extreme weather events. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud First Senate Veterinary Medicine Caucus The U.S. Senate has established a Veterinary Medicine Caucus for the first time ever. The caucus will focus on increasing awareness toward veterinary-related matters in Congress, educating lawmakers and their staffs about the challenges facing the profession, and advancing the legislation that benefits the veterinary community. The bipartisan caucus will be led by Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). In past years, the House Veterinary Medicine Caucus led the way in introducing key legislation that impacts veterinary medicine, such as the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The Senate caucus will extend these efforts to their side of the chamber while also helping secure important funding for veterinary-related federal programs. “The AVMA and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges are dedicated to working with the caucus on raising awareness of the essential services veterinarians provide and the challenges they currently face,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA president. *********************************************************************************** June Food Price Index Rebounds Slightly The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 123.9 points in July, up 1.5 points, or 1.3 percent, from June. However, it remains 16.6 points or 12 percent below its value in the corresponding month last year. The July rebound was led by a solid rise in the vegetable oils price index and partially offset by a significant decline in the sugar price index. There were small decreases in the price index for cereals, dairy, and meat. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 129.8 points in July, 14 points, or 12 percent higher, than in June. It’s the first increase after seven straight months of declines. The FAO Sugar Price Index averaged 146.3 points in July, 5.9 points, or 3.9 percent lower, than during June. The Dairy Index was down 0.5 points at 116.3. The Meat Price Index was 117.8 points in July, down 0.4 points from June. *********************************************************************************** Most Americans Are “Food Satisfied” The latest Purdue University Consumer Food Insights Report shows consumers who are most satisfied with their food consumption also spend the lowest share of their incomes on food. The July 2023 survey-based report from Purdue’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support for agriculture and food policies, and trust in their information sources. Three of every four Americans who responded say their food satisfaction is thriving. The researchers found that consumers have yet to embrace meat alternatives as better than beef from cattle. Other results include household food-at-home spending is up 4.6 percent from July 2022, reaching its highest level yet. Consumers’ predictions for food inflation over the next 12 months have dropped to 3.7 percent, the lowest level recorded by the Purdue University survey. Food insecurity is a percentage point down from the previous month but higher than the 2022 average. *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Board Survey Deadline is August 14 The American Lamb Board is gathering data about how sheep are raised, cared for, and fed, for use in U.S. Lamb Checkoff Programs and needs producer input. “Our industry needs this information from America’s producers and feeders for consumers but also to help determine where to invest research and industry outreach funding,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from Buffalo, Wyoming. One lucky U.S. lamb producer or feeder will win a paid trip, including registration, airfare, and hotel, to the 2024 American Sheep Industry Convention in Denver, Colorado, just for completing the survey. The ALB will compare the results of this survey to the findings from a similar survey done in 2011, and this will let the industry identify areas where the industry has improved and issues that need addressing. Also, the survey data will be utilized to communicate with retailers, chefs, consumers, and guide industry education and research efforts.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets U.S. producer prices for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are set for 11 a.m., followed by estimates of prevented plantings from the Farm Service Agency at noon. DTN's WASDE webinar begins at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system will bring periods of showers and thunderstorms to the central Corn Belt on Friday. Early morning storms are not likely to be severe but are hitting some of the driest areas in northeast Iowa and southern Wisconsin. Additional development this afternoon and evening could end up being severe from eastern Minnesota and Wisconsin through Missouri and adjacent areas. A front across the southern tier remains active with some clusters of showers as well and continues to bottle-up extreme heat to the south.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |
Getting More Farmers in Carbon Markets American Farmland Trust and Sierra View Solutions released a report titled “Agricultural Carbon Programs: From Chaos to Systems Change.” The report analyzes 22 agricultural carbon markets and recommends changes that would help these programs succeed. The challenge was underscored by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, who says, “Among the many reasons why farmers aren’t enrolling in ag carbon programs, one of the most obvious reasons is the offered payments are too low.” Farmers also don’t take part because the ag carbon programs do not adequately define what a “new practice” is, and they are setting arbitrary caps on participation in different areas. A third problem area is that carbon programs originally designed for forestry projects are being applied to farmers and create unrealistic requirements to sequester carbon for 40 to 100 years. There are also concerns about the length of time for each carbon program and data and technology barriers for agriculture. *********************************************************************************** NASS Releases 2023 Land Values Summary The U.S. farm real estate value, a measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,080 per acre for 2023. That’s up $280 per acre, or 7.4 percent, from 2022. The U.S. cropland value averaged $5,460 per acre, an increase of $410 per acre, or 8.1 percent, from the previous year. The U.S. pasture value averaged $1,760 per acre, up $110 per acre, or 6.7 percent from 2022. Among the notable state-level data, the NASS Iowa Field Office says that “Cropland cash rent paid to Iowa landlords in 2023 averaged $269 per acre. Non-irrigated cropland rent averaged $269 per acre, while irrigated cropland averaged $271 an acre, $13 and $19 higher, respectively, compared to last year. Cropland was valued at $10,100 per acre, $750 higher than 2022. In Minnesota, cropland cash rent averaged $198 per acre. Cropland, at $6,820 an acre, was $620 higher than 2022. *********************************************************************************** NACD Targets Local Climate-Smart Conservation Projects The National Association of Conservation Districts is looking for concept papers as it launches the first phase of its $90 million program funded by USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The program will advance grassroots efforts to ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet the growing demand for climate-smart commodity markets. Through its network of 3,000 conservation districts and partners, NACD anticipates reaching more than 1,400 producers, more than half of which will be small and underserved producers. With nearly half of the program budget dedicated to producer incentives and payments, it aims to implement climate-smart practices on over 430,000 acres and reduce or sequester over 1.5 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent. NACD wants concept papers detailing innovative ideas that scale implementation of climate-smart practices, advance greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification, or support producer participation in resulting markets. The organization will then support project development through a matchmaking process. *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Expand Access to Dairy Products in SNAP A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress looks to expand access to dairy products for all program recipients. The legislation would amend the Healthy Milk Fluids Incentive program and allow SNAP recipients to get more products like yogurt and cheese. The bill, introduced by Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy, is intended to boost dairy intake and support U.S. dairy farmers. Ninety percent of Americans don’t get enough dairy in their diet. Food Navigator says the bill is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the National Grocers Association. The bill’s title says it aims to “amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to establish a dairy nutrition incentive program.” The IDFA says the new Dairy Incentives Program Act will enhance the HFMI program’s scope by adding whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. Michael Dykes of IDFA says milk, cheese, and yogurt are “nutritional powerhouses.” *********************************************************************************** China’s Ag Imports Rise So Far in 2023 China imported more agricultural products in the first six months of 2023 than it did during the same period in 2022 as soybean prices surged higher. The value of those agricultural imports in the first half of this year rose over eight percent compared with the same time in 2022. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service report says exports overall were relatively flat. Soybean imports jumped 11 percent to a value of $30 billion, while volume rose 14 percent to 52.6 million metric tons. Grain import purchases were up seven percent year-over-year to $45.4 billion as volume gained 4.% percent to 83.4 million metric tons. The agency says Edible vegetable oils saw the biggest percentage increase as the value of those imports rose 139 percent to $5.3 billion, and volume jumped 79 percent higher to 4.5 million metric tons. Chinese imports of U.S. soybeans. gained 12 percent to almost 20 million metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Drought Covers 100% of Iowa A few consecutive dry weeks are giving crops in Iowa varying degrees of drought stress. An Iowa State University Extension expert says there hasn’t been much measurable rainfall for as many as three weeks in many areas. Prior to that dry spell, Iowa had been getting just enough rain at times to get by. Much of the dry weather came when corn and soybeans entered their reproductive stages, which is when those crops need rain the most. A corn or soybean crop typically needs 20 inches of moisture from rainfall and subsoil moisture to produce a crop. However, ISU expert Gentry Sorenson told Successful Farming, “We had a couple of counties that didn’t get any substantial soil moisture recharge through this year. ” Over 17 percent of Iowa’s acres are abnormally dry while 52 percent of the state is in D1 moderate drought. D2 severe drought is impacting 26 percent of the state.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, consumer price index for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. Weather A system that moved through the southern end of the Corn Belt over the past couple of days is pushing into the Southeast where clusters of thunderstorms continue, some of which may be severe. Another system is moving through the Northern Plains. While showers are scattered and light Thursday morning, they are expected to intensify this afternoon and evening as they go through the eastern Dakotas and Nebraska, then into Minnesota and Iowa this evening and overnight.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |
States Pushing for Year-round E15 Ethanol groups welcome efforts by Nebraska and Iowa prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to create regulations to allow for year-round sales of E15 in at least eight Midwest states. Earlier this year, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states. EPA proposed a rule in March to make regulatory changes to implement year-round sales of E15 in those states beginning in the summer of 2024.EPA issued temporary emergency waivers to allow continued E15 sales this summer and last summer, but the industry seeks a long-term solution. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "We're hopeful that the action taken by Iowa and Nebraska today will help break the logjam and cause EPA to complete the process as soon as possible." Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds, “EPA needs to act now so that fuel retailers have the regulatory clarity they need to make investments and expand access to E15.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Slams Presidential Overreach in Latest Antiquities Act Designation the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association slammed President Biden’s use of the Antiquities Act to put sweeping federal designations on over a million additional acres of land in Arizona. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, “NCBA is strongly opposed to the continued abuse of the Antiquities Act, and we urge President Biden to listen to the local communities that will be hurt by this designation.” The organization says the designation “adds insult to injury” for communities that are unheard and intentionally removed from land management conversations. Additionally, the Biden administration failed to communicate with the affected landowners prior to the designation and their so-called public opinion meeting and poll failed to gather perspective from the people most impacted by this decision. The Antiquities Act gives the President of the United States broad power establish national monuments from existing federal lands. NCBA says the designations are especially harmful to rural communities that rely on federal lands for their livelihood, such as public lands ranchers. *********************************************************************************** EPA Affirms Farmers’ Right to Repair In a letter to the National Farmers Union, the Environmental Protection Agency affirmed that the Clean Air Act cannot be used as a basis to restrict independent repair of farm equipment. In their opposition to Right to Repair legislation, equipment manufacturers and dealers have invoked EPA regulations and the Clean Air Act – specifically related to tampering with emissions control systems – as justification for their need to restrict repair. NFU President Rob Larew says, “EPA confirmed what farmers have known all along – equipment manufacturers have been using bad faith justifications to restrict independent repair.” EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated that “Like NFU and its members, EPA believes barriers to the proper repair and maintenance of nonroad equipment is harmful to the environment.” NFU strongly supports a federal legislative solution that guarantees farmers and independent mechanics the Right to Repair farm equipment on fair and reasonable terms and costs. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Suppliers Meet with Latin American Buyers Red meat buyers from Central and South America and the Caribbean recently met with U.S. suppliers in Colombia, during the 11th edition of the U.S. Meat Export Federation Latin American Product Showcase. With 70 U.S. exporting companies exhibiting at the showcase, 220 importers had the opportunity to meet U.S. suppliers and arrange purchases of a wide range of U.S. red meat products. The value and versatility of underutilized pork, beef and lamb cuts were a focus of the educational activities during the showcase. U.S. industry leaders in attendance also toured a distribution center and several types of retail outlets. Randy Spronk, a farmer from Edgerton, Minnesota, who serves as USMEF chair-elect, attended his third Latin American Product Showcase. He says, "It's great for those that fund USMEF to be able to see what those funds actually do and show the return on their investment." *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Closing 35 Missouri Hog Farms Smithfield Foods will close 35 hog farm operations in Missouri, according to a state-required workforce adjustment notification. The notice indicated 92 employees would be affected by the closures, slated for August. Murphy Brown LLC, a division of Smithfield Foods, is reducing hog farming operations in Missouri and "must reduce its workforce accordingly," a company spokesperson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Employees impacted by the closures were offered the chance to relocate to other hog-producing facilities operated by the company. Smithfield Foods is the world's largest pork processor and is owned by Hong Kong's WH Group. The announcement follows Tyson Foods' plans to close four chicken processing plants across the United States. Tyson plans to close operations next year at four facilities located in Arkansas, Indiana and Missouri. The U.S. meat industry is facing demand struggles in both pork and poultry thanks to increased prices and inflation, amid higher feed and labor costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA: WIC Participation Increased in 2022 USDA's Economic Research Service reports an increase in participants in the Women, Infants and Children, or WIC program, in 2022. The increase represents the first growth in the program in more than a decade. Participation averaged 6.26 million people a month, up from 6.24 million a month in fiscal year 2021. This was the first increase in overall participation since the record high 9.18 million in fiscal year 2010. Women participants increased by 1.5 percent in fiscal year 2022 after declining for the previous 12 fiscal years, whereas infant participants continued to decline. Declines in the number of births in the United States, beginning in 2008, may be a factor in drops in infant participation, according to USDA. WIC provides supplemental food packages, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health care referrals at no cost to low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants younger than one-year-old, and children one to five years old who are at nutritional risk.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, Wednesday's only significant report. Traders will continue to keep close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. Weather A system in the Central Plains will move eastward through the southern half of the Corn Belt Wednesday and into Thursday as well. Widespread showers and thunderstorms, some heavy and strong, will follow the system. Other showers will develop over northern areas with a front dropping south.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |
Tyson Foods to Close Four Chicken Facilities Tyson Foods Monday announced the planned closure of four chicken processing facilities in the United States. Tyson Foods will close facilities in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Corydon, Indiana, Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri. The company will shift production to other facilities and cease operations at the impacted locations in the first half of fiscal year 2024. Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO, says, "While current market dynamics remain challenging, Tyson Foods is fully committed to our vision of delivering sustainable, top-line growth and margin improvement." Tyson made the announcement as part of its third-quarter fiscal year 2023 results. The company reported a 7.5 percent, or $324 million, operating loss on chicken operations, and a 5.6 percent loss in pork. Tyson Foods will evaluate the financial statement impact of the closures for charges related to contract terminations, impairments, accelerated depreciation, severance and retention and estimates total charges of $300 to $400 million. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Shifts Schools Strategy The dairy checkoff marked its 13th year of impact through Fuel Up to Play 60 –while preparing a strategy to bring more partners together. Beginning this school year, the checkoff will shift to the "Fuel Up" platform. The effort will expand opportunities to increase access to dairy with other foods and engage youth around healthy eating and food production. With the announcement, Dairy Management Inc. is transitioning from a partnership with the NFL to a no-cost collaboration, which paves the way to co-create programs that support youth wellness. DMI President and CEO Barbara O'Brien says, "We need to think differently to protect farmers' ability to deliver long-term value to children and in schools." Fuel Up will work with schools and partners to deliver solutions and resources that increase access to dairy products, expand meal participation and educate students on the role of nutrition in physical wellness and academic achievement. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Nearly $30 Million to Boost School Nutrition The Department of Agriculture Monday announced nearly $30 million in subgrants to improve school nutrition. The funding is part of USDA's Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative, Action for Healthy Kids. The funding will span 264 school districts across 44 states and the District of Columbia. USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small says, "With these funds, small and rural school districts will be able to modernize their operations and provide more nutritious meals." Each small or rural school district will receive up to $150,000 to support improving the nutritional quality of their meals and modernizing their operations. The efforts include innovative staff training, kitchen updates and renovations, redesigning food preparation and service spaces, and school-district-led initiatives. An online map features the selected school districts and their grant amounts. The map will be updated on a rolling basis as schools formalize their grant agreements. To learn more about other resources USDA provides to strengthen school meal programs, visit the USDA Support for School Meals webpage. *********************************************************************************** Organic Fresh Produce Sales up 1.5% Organic fresh produce grew slightly in sales dollars and volume in the second quarter of 2023, reversing a trend of volume loss seen in 2021 and 2022. Overall, organic fresh produce dollar sales increased by 1.5 percent for Q2 2023 compared to the same period last year, with sales for the quarter topping $2.4 billion. Volume movement nudged up slightly less than one percent, reversing a downward volume trend that started in 2021. During Q2 2023, conventional produce dollar sales grew by two percent, while volume declined by 1.3 percent, as total sales topped $18.8 billion. The Organic Produce Network and Category Partners reports, “The rate of organic sales growth--while still positive--slowed compared to past years, giving volume a chance to match that growth.” In the second quarter of this year, 11 of the top 20 organic fresh produce categories posted increases in dollar sales compared to the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Membership Reaches All-Time High The National FFA Organization Monday announced a record-high student membership of 945,988, an increase of 11 percent from last year. In addition, the number of FFA chapters continues to grow — increasing by 168 this year, resulting in 9,163 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “It’s exciting to see our numbers grow and know we continue to influence the next generation of leaders,” adding, “We’re excited to see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.” The top five membership states are Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois and North Carolina. This year, the organization has more than 150,000 Latino members, more than 50,000 Black members, more than 9,000 Asian members, more than 14,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members, and more than 2,400 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members. More than 43 percent of the membership is female, and 49.8 percent is male. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Move Higher Again The nation's average price of gasoline rose 7.8 cents last week to $3.79 per gallon, and diesel jumped 14.9 cents to $4.14 per gallon. The increases follow the rise in oil prices and pressure from hot weather that impacted refineries. However, the pace of increases has started to slow and appears to have peaked over the weekend and is beginning to gently fall, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan. The fuel market expert says, “Diesel will likely continue to see upward momentum while gasoline price increases should become more limited.” The price of crude oil has rallied for six straight weeks. In recent days, fundamentals have remained solidly in control behind the upward move, as Saudi Arabia continues its severe one million barrel per day production cut, driving prices higher. In addition, government data last week showed the largest weekly decline in U.S. crude oil inventories on record.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, followed by the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later Tuesday morning. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour continues Tuesday with closer looks at Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Weather A front that has set up from Oklahoma to the Southeast will be active Tuesday with scattered showers and thunderstorms occurring. A piece of energy moving into the Central Plains will produce more widespread showers and thunderstorms, some of which could be severe. With a front dropping south into the northern states as well, it remains an active pattern for Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Yield Tour, WASDE, and Drought Relief OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 6. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms. 1. DTN Digital Yield Tour: Monday we'll have national yield numbers to kick off the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour Powered by Gro Intelligence. With all the hit-and-miss rains, the heat, and relatively low pest issues so far this season, it will be truly interesting to see what the satellites and yield models see in terms of yield potential in corn and soybean fields. 2. August WASDE Friday: It will be a market-critical week, culminating in the August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. As always, we'll have flash coverage moments after 11:00 a.m. CDT, with updates and analysis throughout the morning. 3. Heat continues retreat: The slow-moving front that drove weather this past week will move south, bringing rain potential to Kansas, Oklahoma, and areas further south. We'll look for the U.S. Drought Monitor update Thursday morning, which will only add to a week full of information on crops as they work through pollination and fill periods. Expect more rains where it has rained, driven by the humidity in those areas. 4. Prop 12 news continues: We had extensive coverage this past week on the influence of California's Proposition 12, which regulates pork sales in that state. Look for more discussion around federal efforts to overrule those regulations. 5. Expected economic reports: We'll be watching and responding to a host of government economic reports. Monday sees USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Note that Canada markets are closed. On Tuesday, the U.S. trade deficit report for June hits at 7:30 a.m., with the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later that morning. Wednesday the Energy Department releases weekly energy inventory numbers at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday, we'll look for USDA weekly export sales report, the U.S. weekly jobless claims, and the consumer price index for July. Those and U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy report on natural gas storage hits at 9:30 a.m., with the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. On Friday the U.S. producer prices for July are revealed at 7:30 a.m., while the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August comes at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |
Minneapolis Fed Says Interest Rates Hit Least-Profitable Producers Hardest The Minneapolis Federal Reserve took a look at interest rates and how they are affecting producers in recent months. Interest rates have risen dramatically since last year, raising the cost of borrowing money. Ag producers in the Ninth District face additional expenses arising from supply issues and economic uncertainty. Interest rates have doubled since 2022 for agricultural producers after a decade of historically low and stable rates. The district’s least-profitable producers have higher debt per crop acre compared with the most profitable ones. As rates rapidly increase, cash flow projections for the least-profitable farmers are more sensitive to interest expenses. Increased production expenses could require them to secure even more funding due to lower working capital levels per acre farmed. In most years, the least-profitable producers spend up to three times more on interest expenses per crop acre farmed. Elevated interest rates will continue impacting producers this year and beyond. *********************************************************************************** Large Pork Producers Don’t Favor Overturning Prop 12 Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would overturn California’s Prop 12. Reuters says some of the country’s biggest pork producers who’ve already spent money to comply with the California requirements don’t favor throwing out Prop 12. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act would curb states’ ability to regulate agricultural products sold within their borders. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Roger Marshall (R-KS) and the House by Representatives by Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and supported by the National Pork Producers Council. Prop 12 bans sales within California of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose housing conditions fail to meet certain standards. Clements Food Group, the fifth-largest pork processor in the country, says it won’t support the EATS Act. Some of the larger producers in the country like Tyson Foods and Smithfield have said publicly that they’ll be complying with the law when it takes effect on January 1. *********************************************************************************** Support for Crop Insurance is a Theme at Minnesota Farmfest Farmers and policymakers gathered at Farmfest in Minnesota to discuss the important issues in rural America. One regular topic during the House Ag Committee’s listening session was crop insurance. Farmers asked the elected officials in attendance to protect and strengthen crop insurance as they write the next farm bill. Richard Syverson, President of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, said, “On behalf of thousands of farm families in this state, as you craft this bill, please do no harm to crop insurance. It’s the cornerstone of the farm safety net.” Bob Worth, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers, expressed the need to protect and strengthen crop insurance so that younger farmers can afford crop insurance coverage. Without the protection provided by crop insurance, those young farmers might not be able to get the working capital they need to plant another season.” House Ag Chair G.T. Thompson was a part of the panel. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Persist in the Missouri River Basin July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 3.3 million acre-feet, 99 percent of the average. Runoff was near or above average in all reaches except the Fort Peck reach, which was 68 percent of the average. “Soil moisture conditions deteriorated in Montana, North Dakota, and northern South Dakota over the last month and improved across southern South Dakota and into the lower basin,” says John Remus, Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Precipitation was below normal over most of the upper Missouri River basin last month except for small areas in Wyoming and southern South Dakota. The lower basin saw a mix of above-and-below-normal precipitation. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City is 28.5-million-acre feet, 111 percent of average. System storage on August 1 was 56.3-million-acre feet, 0.2-million-acre feet above the base of the Annual Flood Control and Multiple Use zone. *********************************************************************************** USGC Host Japanese Delegation to Show Off Ethanol Benefits A Japanese delegation recently visited the U.S. to meet with several key policymakers, U.S. Grains Council Staff in Washington, D.C., and visit corn fields and ethanol plants. As part of the Council’s ethanol promotion efforts in Japan, this program aimed to promote ethanol direct blending and new uses of ethanol, including sustainable aviation fuel. The delegation was able to learn more about U.S. policies and incentives in place related to climate change and ethanol. The delegation was led by Akira Amari, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and the House of Representatives in Japan. “It was important to make sure that Mr. Amari, an influential policy maker, and a strong biofuel advocate, understands the supply capacity of U.S. corn ethanol to meet the growing demand for direct blending and SAF in Japan,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. “He was impressed by our robust corn production and ethanol supply.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Holds Ribbon Cutting at New Texas Lab The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service held a dedication last week for the opening of a newly-renovated Grassland, Soil, and Water Research Laboratory in Temple, Texas. The new building will help scientists continue their mission of developing solutions for more efficient use of soil and water resources, enhancing forage and crop production, and supporting sustainable agricultural production by utilizing modern technology. The new lab will focus on several research projects, including enhancing decision support tools for crop and forage production and watershed management. Other projects include developing improved soil, water, and crop management techniques and developing sustainable crop, forage, and biofuel production systems. The scientists also want to increase rangeland productivity and quality and mitigate global climate change effects on agriculture.. ARS Laboratory Research Leader Dr. Douglas Smith says they’re excited to have the facility ready to meet the research needs to support agricultural producers and decision-makers in the years ahead.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check rainfall amounts and look at the new forecasts. There will also be interest in any news regarding Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour kicks off Monday with national corn and soybean estimates from Gro Intelligence. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Canada's markets are closed. Weather A system from the weekend that brought widespread precipitation to the Corn Belt will continue over eastern areas on Monday, exiting to the east overnight. The system left behind a front from Oklahoma to the Southeast which will remain active today as well. Another system moving through the West will get into the Central Plains Monday evening, sparking additional showers and thunderstorms as the week becomes very active.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |
Farm Credit System’s Net Income Drops in 2023 The Farm Credit System’s combined net income decreased 1.4 percent to $1.78 billion for the three and six months ending on June 30, 2023. That’s compared with net income of $1.81 billion and $3.57 billion for the same periods during 2022. “Despite a challenging external environment, the System recognized solid financial results for the first half of 2023,” says Tracey McCabe, president and CEO of the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation. “A strong balance sheet and seasoned underwriting professionals continue to position the System to support the needs of our member-borrowers.” Net income increased $200 million or 7.6 percent to $2.8 billion for the second quarter of 2023 and $420 million or 8.1 percent to $5.6 billion for the six months ending on June 30, compared to the same periods last year. The net income increases primarily resulted from higher levels of earnings driven in part by increased loan volume. *********************************************************************************** Mandatory Base Acre Update Creates “Winners and Losers” For more than 20 years and the last four farm bills, farm program payments were based on a farm’s historical planted acreage, or base acres, and not on actual plantings each year. Several agricultural groups and stakeholders are pushing for an update to base acres in the next farm bill. However, Senate Ag Committee Republicans released a report saying a mandatory base acre update would force farmers to update their farm’s base acres to reflect a more recent snapshot of their planting history. The economic effects would be significant and are conservatively estimated to result in an overall loss of $2 billion to farmers and rural communities because of a decline in farm program benefits in fiscal years 2024 to 2033. “Few in agriculture would benefit from a base acre update,” the report says. “It would create winners and losers and would certainly complicate efforts to pass a farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Create a Permanent Disaster Relief Program Four elected officials from California introduced the “Agricultural Emergency Relief Act” to create a permanent USDA structure that would provide relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters. While Congress routinely provides disaster relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes. That can cause confusion for farmers and result in unnecessary delays in implementation. Representative Mike Thompson of California was one of the co-sponsors. He says, “California and many other states have been hit hard by disasters. It’s clear we need a permanent disaster relief program. This bill will help streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief they deserve.” The legislation would formally authorize a program that already has funding from 2022 and 2023 omnibus bills. It will require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment. *********************************************************************************** Young Agricultural Leaders Win Awards at Ag Media Summit During the 2023 Ag Media Summit in California, agricultural communications students were honored for their excellence, professionalism, and leadership. The Livestock Publications Council Student Award, sponsored by Alltech, provides travel scholarships for four students to attend the AMS. Following a competitive application and interview process, Carlye (CAR-lee) Winfrey of Texas Tech University won the LPC Forest Bassford Student Award. She’s a senior currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications and minoring in political science. “In my future career, I want to help shape policy to best serve the people of rural America,” Winfrey says. “My degree will allow me to walk through the halls of Congress and share the stories that rural America is so desperately needing to be told.” Jenn Norrie, Alltech’s communications manager for North America and Europe, says, “Alltech is proud to support the next generation of agricultural communicators as the ambassadors and voice of our industry.” *********************************************************************************** House Farm Bill Will Address California’s Prop 12 The House Ag Committee Chair says he plans to use the upcoming farm bill to deal with California’s Prop 12 that was upheld by the Supreme Court. Roll Call says pork producers across the country have said this will lead to patchwork laws between states that will interfere with commerce. At Minnesota’s Farmfest, Glenn “GT” Thompson said the Supreme Court did say in its decision that Congress has the power to address the issues caused by Prop 12. However, Congress has chosen not to deal with those issues in the past. Thompson addressed the audience during a farm bill listening session and said the court let it stand because they’re tired of handling Congressional work. Thompson didn’t specify if the Ag Committee would write its own legislation or use pending legislation to deal with California’s law. Bills have already been introduced in both congressional chambers that would nullify Prop 12. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Stockpiles Fall Energy Information Administration data shows that ethanol output and inventories dropped to three-week lows during the week ending on July 28. The biofuel production dropped to an average of 1.06 million barrels a day during the week. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.094 million barrels the previous week and the lowest level since July 7. In the Midwest, the largest producing region in the country, output dropped to 1.005 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.02 million a week earlier. The agency said that’s also the lowest point in three weeks. West Coast production was closer to normal levels of 13,000 barrels a day, down from the previous week’s record total of 25,000 barrels. Production on the Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountain region, and East Coast levels were unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol inventories shrank to 22.86 million barrels a day, down from 23.28 million a week earlier.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the only significant reports of the day. Traders will remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and events in Ukraine. Weather A stalled frontal boundary continues to be active from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley Friday morning, producing areas of heavy rain and flooding. A system is moving out of the central Rockies and into the Northern Plains and is forecast to produce areas of thunderstorms, some of which may be severe toward the front in the south, as well as bouts of heavy rain which may improve soil moisture, but also lead to potential flooding. As has been the case all week long, areas south of the stalled front continue to be very hot.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |
USDA Partnership Will Strengthen Rural America’s Workforce The U.S. Department of Agriculture is partnering with the Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement to strengthen the nation’s rural workforce. USDA’S Acting Rural Development Undersecretary Roger Glendenning made the announcement this week. Through this partnership, USDA and the Alliance will provide community college students in the Midwest with the resources and skill sets that will help them advance in careers in agriculture and rural economic development. This will help ensure America’s rural communities have the leaders and workforce needed to thrive. “USDA works with rural communities to make sure people everywhere have the resources they need to access quality education and good-paying jobs,” Glendenning says. “That’s why we’re finding new ways to work with our partners to ensure our students have the tools they will need to succeed in their coursework today so they can thrive in their careers tomorrow.” For more information on the partnership, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Battle Continues Over EATS Act Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently said, “We’re getting the heck beat out of us” on the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. While Marshall led the Senate introduction, U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) introduced a companion bill in the House. For two months, members of the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association, and several other groups and organizations have declared their opposition to the EATS Act. The groups call the measure “an assault on state’s rights, and a gift to Chinese pork conglomerates like Smithfield. They are determined to prevent the measure from marginalizing American family farmers and “opening the floodgates” to China’s takeover of American agriculture. Enacting the EATS Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws and pave the way for even more foreign intrusion without guardrails. OCM and CMA are spearheading an anti-EATS Act campaign that began in June. *********************************************************************************** RFA Asks EPA to Approve Midwest E15 Petition The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter this week to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan regarding the E15 RVP Petition from several Midwest Governors. The association wants Regan and his agency to finalize its regulations accepting the petition of eight Midwest governors that would reduce evaporative emissions and allow summertime sales of the lower-cost, low-carbon E15 fuel blend in their states. “Three months have passed since EPA’s public comment period ended, and more than a year has passed since EPA’s statutory deadline to promulgate a final rule approving the Governors’ petition,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “And yet, despite strong public support for EPA’s proposal, the agency still has not finalized the rule or publicly provided a schedule for doing so.” He also said the RFA wants the final rule published as soon as possible because the 2024 summer ozone control season is only nine months away. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Prices Continue Dropping From Peak Levels in 2022 After reaching historic highs in 2022, prices for major fertilizers have trended consistently lower since then. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois says supply and demand fundamentals, as well as some resolution of the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were contributing factors. Fertilizer prices peaked during the second quarter of 2022. Anhydrous ammonia reached $1,635 per ton in June 2022 and has since declined by almost 47 percent to $870 per ton on July 27. Urea and liquid nitrogen, at $497 per ton and $536 per ton on July 27, have dropped over 50 percent and almost 22 percent, respectively, from their highs reached in 2022. DAP prices have fallen by 20 percent from more than $1,000 per ton in June 2022 to $822 per ton on July 27. Potash prices have fallen over 35 percent to $558 a ton from a peak of $865 in April 2022. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Sue Massachusetts Over Animal Housing Law Triumph Foods and a group of Midwest pork producers are suing Massachusetts over its Question 3 law and others that set minimum housing requirements for livestock. The plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Q3 law and seeking immediate relief from the law before it takes effect on August 24. They also want enforcement stayed until the litigation is complete. The law was approved by voters in 2016, and the plaintiffs say it creates challenges to interstate commerce and places burdensome costs on pork producers outside of Massachusetts. The complaint comes months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of California’s Prop 12 animal housing regulations. While both California and Massachusetts laws impose housing standards for pork, producers argue Q3 goes further by not allowing the transshipment of whole pork throughout the state. That nuance in the Massachusetts law set off multiple lawsuits filed by restaurant, hospitality, and agriculture groups. *********************************************************************************** Corn Used for Ethanol Down Compared to Last Year USDA data shows corn used to make ethanol and other fuels increased month-to-month in June but were down year-over-year. The amount of corn used to make fuel alcohol was 442.5 million bushels during June, up from 439 million in May. But that was down from the 444.2 million bushels processed during the same month in 2022. The bulk of the corn, at 407.7 million bushels, was used in dry milling, and the rest was wet-milled. Dried Distiller’s Grain production fell six percent on a monthly basis to 390,664 metric tons. The output of DDGs with solubles rose five percent to 1.79 million tons. Processors are expected to use 5.23 billion bushels of corn to produce ethanol in the 2022-2023 marketing year that ends on August 31. Corn use is forecast to rise to 5.3 billion bushels in the next marketing year. Production is projected to be 13.73 billion bushels this year.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, a report on second-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for June are set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain attentive to weather and Ukraine. Weather A front that has been stalled out from the Central Plains through the Tennessee Valley all week remains active on Thursday with areas of showers and thunderstorms Thursday morning and likely again later in the day. Some heavy rainfall across the eastern end of the front could produce some flooding. Another system will be moving through the central Rockies, inducing some stronger thunderstorms on the western end of the front Thursday afternoon and evening. Some severe weather and heavy rain will be possible there as well. South of the front it continues to be very hot.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |
Farmers Remain Cautiously Optimistic About Ag Economy Farmer sentiment rebounded in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 17 points to a reading of 121. June’s sentiment improvement left the index near the April reading of 123 after a one-month swoon in May. Producers report a more optimistic view of the future as the Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while their perception of the current situation was unchanged. The Index of Current Conditions reading, at 116, was the same as in May. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from June 12-16, 2023. The more optimistic view of the future held by respondents was reflected across the board as the Farm Financial Conditions, Short and Long-Term Farmland Value Expectations, and Farm Capital Investment indices all improved in June compared to May. Looking ahead, one-fourth of corn/soybean producers said they expect farmland cash rental rates to rise in 2024. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Hoping for September Farm Bill Markup The Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee plans to release a draft Farm Bill at the end of August. During a Farm Bill listening session in Maine this week, Representative Glenn GT Thompson told the Hagstrom Report he plans a markup "in mid-September," but only if the leadership has told him what week the bill will be scheduled to come up on the House floor. However, that depends on when House leadership will schedule floor time for the bill. The Pennsylvania Republican told attendees of the listening session, "This farm bill is going to be bipartisan, bicameral, on time and highly effective," adding, "Now the time part, we only control the House, we do not control the Senate, but we are doing our job." The House Agriculture Committee is holding additional listening sessions, including one Wednesday (today) at FarmFest in Minnesota. The current Farm Bill expires at the end of the Fiscal Year, September 30, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases 2022 Farm Expenditures Report At the end of July, the Department of Agriculture released the 2022 United States Total Farm Production Expenditures summary. Farm production expenditures in the United States are estimated at $452.7 billion for 2022, up from $392.9 billion in 2021. The 2022 total farm production expenditures are up 15.2 percent compared with 2021 total farm production expenditures. The four largest expenditures totaled $219.6 billion, accounting for 48.5 percent of total expenditures in 2022. These include feed, 18.5 percent, farm services, 10.8 percent, livestock, poultry, and related expenses, 10.1 percent, and labor, 9.2 percent. In 2022, the United States total farm expenditure average per farm is $226,986, up 15.8 percent from $196,087 in 2021. On average, United States farm operations spent $41,917 on feed, $22,864 on livestock, poultry, and related expenses, $24,469 on farm services, and $20,858 on labor. California contributed most to the 2022 United States total expenditures, with expenses of $46.0 billion. Iowa, the next leading state, has $35.7 billion in expenses. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Supports Rural Fishing Communities New legislation would allow businesses that directly support the fishing industry to access existing agriculture loan programs. Introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations, like gear producers or cold storage, to access loans from the Farm Credit System. Pingree says, “Small businesses that directly help our iconic fishing industry should be able to depend on the Farm Credit System as countless farmers, ranchers, and loggers have for decades.” Higgins adds, “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries.” Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says, “Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural fishing communities.” Senators Angus King, an Independent from Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, introduced a companion bill in the Senate. *********************************************************************************** Draft Guidance Not Enough to Prevent Misleading Labeling, NMPF Tells FDA The National Milk Producers Federation says the Food and Drug Administration’s plant-based beverage proposal “falls woefully short of ending the decades-old problem of misleading plant-based labeling using dairy terminology.” In comments to the FDA on the proposal, NMPF emphasized the importance of transparent product labeling to ensure consumer understanding. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, "FDA's draft guidance is an encouraging first step toward promoting labeling transparency in the marketplace, but it's not enough." In its comments, NMPF commended FDA for its acknowledgment of consumer confusion over the nutritional content of dairy imitators. Still, NMPF cautioned FDA to adhere to the law by going through the proper legal process, as outlined in NMPF's Citizen Petition and comments. Because of the voluntary nature of the proposed guidance and FDA's undependable labeling enforcement history, NMPF continues its work in Congress to pass the bipartisan, bicameral DAIRY PRIDE Act, which would direct FDA to enforce its own rules and clarify that dairy terms are for true dairy products. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Groups Welcome Flex Fuel Fairness Act Ethanol groups welcome new legislation that seeks to level the playing field for vehicles running on low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol. Senators Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act last week. The legislation, according to the lawmakers, would provide a meaningful incentive for automakers to manufacture flex-fuel vehicles in addition to battery electric vehicles. Currently, the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency has prioritized regulations that favor dramatically increasing production of EVs and forcing them on consumers, according to Senator Rickets, who says, "The Biden EPA has made a mistake and ignored the proven benefits of flex fuel vehicles that can run higher ethanol blends.” Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This bill would level the playing field, so both electricity and low-carbon biofuels can drive progress toward a net-zero future.” Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper adds, “This legislation helps unlock the potential of renewable fuels and puts more tools in the toolbox for automakers.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday and is the only significant report of the day. Traders continue to keep close watch over the weather and any news regarding Ukraine's grain shipments. Weather A stalled boundary around Missouri is especially active early Wednesday morning with heavy rain and training thunderstorms from southern Iowa and along the Mid-Mississippi Valley. This zone is forecast to be especially active for much of the day, which could bring flooding rains to areas in significant drought and potential severe weather. The boundary will be active across the Central Plains as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |
Farmer to Farmer Education Act Introduced in Senate Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Importing More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Imports are vital and increasingly important in ensuring fresh fruit and vegetables are available year-round in the United States. Since the 2008 completion of the North American Free Trade Agreement, U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable imports have increased with few interruptions, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Between 2007 and 2021, the percentage of U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable availability supplied by imports grew from 50 to 60 percent for fresh fruit and from 20 to 38 percent for fresh vegetables. The import share increased by more than 20 percentage points during this period for ten crops: asparagus, avocados, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, raspberries, snap beans, and tomatoes. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, implemented on July 1, 2020, continues NAFTA's market access provisions for fruit and vegetables. In 2022, Mexico and Canada supplied 51 percent and two percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh fruit imports, and 69 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh vegetable imports in terms of value. *********************************************************************************** Precision Technology Growth Continues The 2023 Precision Agriculture Dealership Survey shows continued growth in technology to streamline and increase the efficiency of operations, such as in sprayer boom section/nozzle control, turn compensation, fleet management and telemetry. These are possible reactions to input costs and skilled worker shortages, according to Purdue University and CropLife America, organizers of the survey. The enthusiasm continues for applying crop inputs with drones. More dealers will offer drone imagery, but fewer dealers are offering satellite or aerial imagery, and dealers say imagery use is declining on farms. On-farm data continues to be used the most for fertilizer-related decisions and for hybrid/variety selection, but in the last few years, dealers have not increased their use of on-farm data for decision-making. The survey shows 89 percent of dealers use auto guidance on their application equipment/GPS-guided boom section/nozzle controllers on sprayers, which reduce doubling-up and skips, are used at 82 percent of dealerships, and sprayer turn compensation continues to grow, now at 41 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Wildfire Protection Grants The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the application period for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. Now in its second year, the competitive program is designed to assist at-risk communities, including Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies and Alaska Native Corporations with planning for and mitigating wildfire risks. Applications will be accepted for 90 days. The announcement comes after $197 million was awarded to 99 project proposals across 22 states and seven Tribes during the first year of funding. The projects directly support the Forest Service’s ten-year strategy to treat up to 20 million acres of national forests and grasslands and 30 million acres of other lands to reduce wildfire risks. Individual grants will fund up to $250,000 to create and update community wildfire protection plans and up to $10 million for associated wildfire resilience projects. The number of projects selected will be determined by available funding, which is up to $250 million. *********************************************************************************** Brent Boydston Elected U.S. Grains Council Chairman The delegates of the U.S. Grains Council elected Brent Boydston, corn, cereal grains, digital agriculture and carbon lead at Bayer Crop Science, as chairman of its Board of Directors. USGC elected Boydston as chair last week during its 63rd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Calgary, Canada. Boydston grew up in a family farming operation near Centerville, Kansas, that raised cattle, corn and soybeans. He assumed his current position with Bayer Crop Science in 2016 and has been on the Council’s Board of Directors ever since. Previously, Boydston served as vice president of public policy at the Colorado Farm Bureau and spent more than seven years working on Capitol Hill. In addition to Boydston, Verity Ulibarri of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program was nominated as vice chairwoman and Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board was elected secretary-treasurer. Jim Reed of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board and Jim O’Connor of the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council were also elected as at-large directors. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Surge as Heat Hits Refinery Output The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Manufacturing reports from the world will roll in overnight and the ISM index of U.S. manufacturing will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. Traders will keep track of the latest forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A front continues to be stalled from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley where heavy rain is already falling in Missouri early Tuesday morning. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop near the front later Tuesday and could become severe with potential for heavy rain as well. The more likely scenario for severe storms occurs farther north as a system moving through Canada brings a front through the Northern Plains. Scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop and could be severe around North Dakota, possibly into northern Minnesota as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |
NPPC Releases Q3 Economic Update The National Pork Producers Council released its third-quarter pork industry economic update covering the top pork industry issues, current trends, and marketing issues impacting U.S. farmers. Among the biggest takeaways, California’s Prop 12 creates significant challenges and market uncertainty for pig farmers across the country and has far-reaching implications beyond the pork industry. High production costs continue to be a major challenge to pig farmers’ profitability. The average cost and breakeven levels are nine percent higher than a year ago and have risen 60 percent in the last three years. Hog slaughter and pork production increased an estimated 1.2 percent and 0.3 percent respectively through mid-July 2023. USDA now says pork production will increase 1.4 percent this year, while domestic pork availability is expected to drop 2.5 percent to 49.8 pounds per capita for this year. “Despite the challenges, our pork industry is incredibly resilient,” says Scott Hays, NPPC President. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Target Farm Payments Where Needed Most Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming. The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies. “It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.” *********************************************************************************** Rabobank Issues Quarterly Hog and Pig Update The latest Rabobank quarterly pork report shows global pork markets are being influenced by sluggish economic growth, weak consumption, and recurrent disease outbreaks. After a strong first half of 2023, global trade is expected to weaken in the months ahead. Despite lower food prices, production costs should remain above pre-COVID levels. The first-half strength was driven by an increase in Chinese imports. Sales in the Philippines saw a major decline. Japan, another major U.S. pork importer, saw flat trade, with a slight shift in sourcing pork from Europe to the U.S. The EU and United Kingdom pork supply dropped in the first four months of 2023, with some countries seeing declines at double-digit rates. Sluggish economic growth has been impacting pork consumption around the world. But pork is still cheaper than beef and premium seafood and more expensive than poultry, so it holds a relatively stable position on consumers’ palates. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Ranchers Storm Capitol Hill Opposing EATS Act The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act. The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states. The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another. The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** CNH Industrial Net Income Jumps 35 Percent CNH Industrial reported Q2 consolidated revenues of $6.57 billion, eight percent higher than the same quarter in 2022. The company’s net income totaled $710 million and Adjusted Net Income was $711 million. Net cash used by operating activities totaled $139 million and Industrial Free Cash Flow generation hit $386 million in the second quarter of this year. Net sales for industrial activities hit $5.95 billion, up $341 million compared to the second quarter of last year. The company saw significant improvements in Gross Profit Margin for the Agriculture and Construction segments. A release from the company says, “The CNH Industrial team delivered great results in Q2 as we capitalized on favorable market fundamentals and solid operational execution. Our Agriculture segment set margin records, and for the first quarter in the company’s history, Construction net sales surpassed $1 billion. We are transforming the business and expanding our technology investments to drive growth.” *********************************************************************************** Export Sales of Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat Rise A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20. USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons. Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons. Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Temperatures Cool, Heat Effects Linger on Crops, Congress and Markets OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 30. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Heat brings feedlot deaths: The weekend saw scattered reports of cattle deaths from feedlots in Nebraska and other sweltering states. Numbers, while devastating locally, seemed to not be at the level to move market prices. We'll monitor those areas. 2. Welcome cooling: Scattered rains late last week and into this week bring a slight cooling to major cropping areas. Monday's USDA weekly Crop Progress Report will give a look at crop condition going into those rains, we'll watch through the week for signs of improvement. For our latest thoughts on weather and markets, 3. Ukraine watch: Markets so far have calmed following the crumbling of the Ukraine grain deal and subsequent shelling of the Odesa grain port. But at some point, the bushels missing in the global grain bin could regain traders' attention, noted DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman. 4. Recess lights dumpster fire on House playground: With Congress taking summer recess without passing an appropriations bill, the scene is set for another government shutdown threat come September. It bears watching whether the time back home soothes divisions or whether hanging with the base simply throws gas on this smoldering dumpster fire. 5. Reports to watch: In addition to Monday's Crop Progress report, there is a stream of business and economic news coming throughout the week. On Tuesday the latest world manufacturing indices come out at 9 a.m. CDT. Latest NASS Fats and Oils report hits at 2 p.m. that day. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is released at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Thursday morning, we'll watch USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, second-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. The latest (June) report on U.S. factory orders is at 9 a.m.; the U.S. Energy Department natural gas storage numbers hit at 9:30 a.m. Then, Friday sees Labor Department reports on nonfarm payrolls and U.S. unemployment at 7:30. We'll also gear up for the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, which kicks off the week of Aug. 7.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will remain focused on changes in weather and events from Ukraine. As usual, USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Monday being the final day of July is also first notice day for August soybean and soy product futures. Weather A frontal boundary has stalled out from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley on Monday. South of the front, it remains hot with stressful conditions for both crops and animals. The front will be a focus for showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, as will a weak system sliding south along the Mississippi River. Yet another system moving through the Canadian Prairies will keep that area and the Northern Plains a bit active as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |
New Jersey Signs Gestation Crate Legislation New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.” They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. “Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Combat Misinformation on Animal Agriculture The Animal Agriculture Alliance and the National Institute for Animal Agriculture have partnered to combat misinformation about animal ag. The combination will maximize their areas of expertise to ensure sound scientific information about animal agriculture is getting communicated effectively to key audiences. As part of the relationship, NIAA will serve as a resource for scientific research and educational expertise. The AAA will work to communicate this information to key audiences. “This partnership will give us greater access to technical experts to make sure we’re communicating accurate, science-backed, and expert-supported information to these audiences,” says Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance President and CEO. JJ Jones, NIAA executive director, says, “Working alongside the AAA means we are positioned to better support the animal agriculture community in communicating science while combating misinformation.” The partnership will entail coordinating media responses on technical issues with third-party expertise and hosting regular issue updates with key stakeholders from each organization. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Direct Action on Cell-Cultured Products Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association passed a directive to continue advocating for transparent labeling and inspection of cell-cultured protein products. While NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says cattle producers aren’t afraid of competition, he knows that consumers will continue choosing real high-quality beef over cell-cultured imitations. “Our priority is ensuring that consumers know the difference between real beef and cell-cultured products through transparent and accurate labeling,” Wilkinson says. “We have already been successful at encouraging the USDA to conduct robust inspections and oversight to protect food safety.” The directive was brought forward by the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, California Cattlemen’s Association, and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and passed during the NCBA’s summer business meeting. All policies passed at the meeting get forwarded to NCBA’s general membership for a full vote this fall. Earlier this year, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued two grants of inspection to cell-cultured chicken imitation products. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Videos Tell Farm Bill Stories The National Corn Growers Association released a video series featuring corn growers from around the nation telling their stories about how the farm bill affects each of their operations. The videos were unveiled at Corn Congress, which was recently held in Washington, D.C. The series features four farmers from Pennsylvania, Texas, Kansas, and Ohio. These NCGA members shared the importance of crop insurance, trade, farm safety net programs, and USDA’s conservation programming. Brooke Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says the project’s goal is to help directly communicate with policymakers and their staff about the importance of the farm bill to corn growers and their families. “Nearly half of all House members weren’t around during the 2018 Farm Bill debate,” Appleton says. “We’ve known for some time that new member education would be key to our comprehensive advocacy efforts on the farm bill.” Check out the videos at ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** Biotechnology Organization Lists Farm Bill Priorities The Biotechnology Innovation Organization says the next farm bill offers opportunities to invest in long-term food security, climate resiliency, and growing the national bio-economy. The group has submitted recommendations to the agriculture committees in both chambers of Congress as they work on writing the new legislation. “A farm bill centered on innovation stands to incentivize the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices, resulting in benefits to the environment and rural economies,” says Beth Ellikidis, BIO’s vice president of agriculture and environment. Among their recommendations, they say they’d like increased funding for the Biobased Markets or BioPreferred Program, which directs federal agencies to increase their biobased and renewable product purchases. They’d like to see Congress increase funding and make administrative improvements to the federal program to help build or retrofit facilities to produce advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and other biobased products. Among several other recommendations, BIO wants streamlined regulations for biotechnologies. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Would Help Farmers and Ranchers Combat Drought Congresswoman Yadira (Yah-DEER-ah) Caraveo (Care-ah-VEY-oh) (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures, an inflation gauge for June, is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's final index of consumer sentiment for July follows at 9 a.m. For grain traders, weather and events in Ukraine remain high on the list of interest. Weather Heat continues to envelop most of the U.S. on Friday, stressing areas with inadequate moisture. But the northern edge of the heat continues to be a good place to produce showers and thunderstorms. That is especially true with a cold front across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest slowly sagging southward. Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening in and around Iowa and extending east through the southern Great Lakes in a couple of waves. Any rainfall will be welcome to limit the effects of the heat during a critical time for corn and soybean development.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |
USDA: Food Inflation Mostly Lower in 2023 Compared to 2022 Retail food prices increased 4.8 percent in the first six months of 2023, lower than the rate of midyear inflation in 2022, of 8.2 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the 20-year average for midyear inflation from 2002 to 2021 was 1.6 percent. All food categories except for sugar and sweets experienced smaller price increases through the first half of 2023 compared with the same period in 2022. Prices for eggs increased the most, 13.7 percent, so far in 2023, followed by fats and oils and cereals and bakery products. All food categories increased in price in the first six months of 2023 compared with 2022, but the increases for meats, fresh fruits, fish and seafood, and fresh vegetables, were below their historical average price increases. Inflationary pressures and trends differ by food category. Prices will continue to change during the remainder of 2023, according to USDA, and may affect the annual inflation rate. *********************************************************************************** Global Shocks Disproportionately Hurt Farmers Global shocks over the past few years have created an unprecedented “polycrisis” that has disproportionately hurt small-scale farmers and people living in food-deficit countries. The data comes from a new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation. The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change have created far-reaching impacts across global food systems, affecting food, fertilizer, feed, fuel, and financing available to producers. The resulting polycrisis has left humanity vulnerable to future “black swan” moments that could have even more severe and far-reaching consequences for global food supplies. One of the researchers says, “Already, millions of smallholder farmers and their families were teetering on the edge of survival due to long-term structural challenges, and this polycrisis has pushed countless into disaster.” To alleviate global food insecurity, the report says the U.S. should invest more in international agricultural research and innovation. More research is needed across climate change adaptation and mitigation, soil health and nutrient management, crop diversity and nutrition, access to markets and finance, supply chain infrastructure, and local capacity building. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Reject Anti-checkoff Legislation Agriculture checkoff groups jointly announced opposition to legislation they say attacks commodity checkoff programs. An Amendment by Representative Victoria Sparts, a Republican from Indiana, would prohibit USDA from using any tax dollars to administer commodity Checkoff programs. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Soybean Association, National Pork Producers Council, and National Milk Producers Federation, along with the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, jointly voiced opposition to the effort. NCBA Policy Division Vice Chair Tim Schwab, an Indiana cattle producer, says, "Representative Spartz's amendment targets programs like the Beef Checkoff and is a direct attack on America's farmers and ranchers." The groups say the legislation is "frivolous" as "no taxpayer dollars are being used to administer Checkoff programs." USDA oversees 22 commodity Checkoff programs that boost demand for products like beef, eggs, lamb, cotton, blueberries, honey, mangos, peanuts, mushrooms, watermelons, dairy, cotton, popcorn, and even Christmas trees. Farmers and ranchers invest in these programs, and that funding supports agricultural research and promotional efforts. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Sides with EPA in Lawsuit Growth Energy recently filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in The San Antonio Refinery, LLC, v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The case pertains to a group of refineries seeking to avoid complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. The petitioning refineries allege that the EPA's "Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule for Small Refineries"--an adjustment made to allow refineries to meet their RFS obligations over an extended period of time--did not go far enough and should have allowed the refineries not to comply with the RFS at all. Growth Energy's amicus brief reiterates the fact that the oil industry continues to look for ways to avoid complying with the RFS. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "The oil industry should stop playing the victim and get on board with the most successful climate policy enacted to date." *********************************************************************************** USDA Continues Field Evaluation of Oral Rabies Vaccine USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced it will continue field evaluation of the oral rabies vaccine bait ONRAB in eight states. The effort is part of a larger-scale rabies prevention effort and will assess distribution methods and effectiveness in raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife. Beginning in late July, APHIS and cooperators will distribute approximately 3.5 million vaccine baits in parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia to test the immune effects in targeted wildlife. During October, APHIS also will distribute vaccine baits in parts of Tennessee. The vaccine bait is a blister pack filled with the vaccine and coated with a sweet attractant. When an animal bites into one of the baits, it will release the vaccine into their mouth and, with an adequate dose, develop immunity to rabies. Humans and pets cannot get rabies from contact with the bait but are asked to leave the bait undisturbed if they encounter it. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Pilot to Increase Affordable Homeownership on Tribal Lands USDA Wednesday announced it is launching two pilot programs to increase affordable homeownership opportunities for people on Tribal lands. USDA Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Roger Glendenning says, "The assistance I'm announcing today will help people across this nation have the resources they need to build, purchase or repair homes in Tribal communities." USDA is launching the Tribal Property Valuation Pilot Program. It provides approved lenders the opportunity to obtain desktop appraisals for mortgage transactions on Tribal land. This program will help decrease the cost and eliminate potential inaccuracies of appraisal reports completed on properties located on Tribal land. The Department is also launching the Tribal Rehabilitation Pilot Program to help people remain in safe and improved housing on Tribal lands and improve their quality of life. Many homes on Tribal lands have been passed on from one generation to the next and need renovations to make them safe and bring them up to current codes. Funds under this program may be used to finance repairs to these homes.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders for June, a report on second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues to dominate the U.S. with widespread heat and humidity causing stress to anything living outside. The northern edge of the ridge continues to be an active place with thunderstorms expected to develop across the Corn Belt, some of which may be significantly severe across the Upper Midwest Thursday afternoon and evening. A cold front has worked itself through Canada and will bring relieving temperatures from north to south in the coming days.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |
USDA Introduces Data to Show Crop Rotation Patterns The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a geospatial product called Crop Sequence Boundaries that offers national-scale visual crop rotation data for the first time. Crop Sequence Boundaries, or CSB technology, is a cutting-edge map of agricultural fields that provides crop acreage estimates and historical planting decisions across the contiguous United States. The open-source product uses satellite imagery and other public data to allow users to analyze planted U.S. commodities, enhancing agricultural science and research and providing producers an innovative resource to help make farming decisions. The new tool was developed by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and Economic Research Service, two of the department's statistical scientific research agencies. CSB incorporates technological advances in satellite imagery and high-performance cloud computing with Google Earth Engine. It is one of several tools that NASS and its partners have developed to support agricultural analyses and make data more accessible and valuable to the public. Access CSB at nass.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Emergency Rural Health Care Grants The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Emergency Rural Health Care Grant recipients. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement in Charlottesville, Virginia. The funds will expand access to health care for more than five million people living in 39 states and Puerto Rico. Torres Small says, "USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grants are helping strengthen rural America's health care infrastructure to build for the future." USDA is awarding $129 million to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns nationwide. These grants will help 172 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services. The investments will help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural healthcare challenges. For example, in the Midwest, Southern Illinois Hospital Services is partnering with local healthcare organizations to build an in-patient psychiatric unit to address a regional need to expand access to mental healthcare services for people in Southern Illinois. Find a list of grant recipients at USDA.gov. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Increased in June United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during June 2023, up four percent from the same time last year. USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report shows production included 7.78 billion table eggs, and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during June 2023 totaled 387 million, up five percent from last year. June egg production per 100 layers was 2,348 eggs, down one percent from June 2022. Total layers in the United States on July 1, 2023, were 386 million, up five percent from last year. The 386 million layers consisted of 317 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 65.0 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.69 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on July 1, 2023, averaged 78.5 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from July 1, 2022. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Lowers Outlook on Reduced Glyphosate Sales The Bayer Group adjusted its full-year outlook for 2023 downward this week, mainly due to a significant further decline in sales of glyphosate-based products. For full-year 2023, Bayer now anticipates sales of between 48.5 billion and 49.5 billion euros, or roughly $54 billion in U.S. funds. The company also adjusted its forecast for core earnings per share to between 6.20 and 6.40 euros, which was previously forecasted at 7.20 to 7.40 euros. Bayer already guided towards the lower end of its Group sales and earnings forecast for this year. Further price declines and lower volumes due to channel de-stocking, especially for glyphosate-based products, as well as adverse weather conditions, have increased pressure. Based on the anticipated market development, in particular with respect to the glyphosate business, Bayer also expects to record a goodwill impairment of approximately 2.5 billion euros. This will result in negative Group net income of approximately two billion euros for the second quarter of 2023. *********************************************************************************** AFIA Accepting Nominations for Friend of Pet Food Award The American Feed Industry Association is now accepting nominations through August 28 for its annual Friend of Pet Food Award. Launched in 2019, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to support the growth of the pet food industry. Louise Calderwood, AFIA director of regulatory affairs, says the award “recognizes the tireless efforts of those committed to ensuring the well-being and happiness of our furry friends through cutting-edge nutritional discoveries.” An ideal nominee will be currently employed and active in the pet food industry or an associated area, such as new product development, transportation, regulatory, academia, media or promotion. There is no restriction by company or industry affiliation, or the function performed by the nominee. The award winner will be invited to attend the 2024 AFIA Pet Food Conference , which is being held in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, in January. To nominate someone, visit afia.org. *********************************************************************************** RFA Safety Programs Win National Awards The Renewable Fuels Association’s nationally recognized safety programs have been honored with their 11th consecutive National Achievement Award from the Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response, a national hazardous materials safety coalition. RFA's Director of Safety and Technical Programs, Missy Ruff, received an Individual Recognition Award for her efforts. More than 12 years ago, RFA created comprehensive training programs for first responders and other stakeholders on the topics of ethanol safety and emergency management. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "The ethanol industry continues to maintain an impeccable safety record, which is a direct result of RFA's ongoing safety efforts." In 2022, more than 1,200 attendees were trained via 37 training opportunities supported by RFA. Since its inception in 2010, RFA's safety program has been responsible for training over 15,000 individuals and conducting over 400 training sessions and events. RFA has trained individuals from all 50 U.S. states and 40 other countries.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. new homes sales will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Powell. Traders remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and on Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Weather A system moving through Canada is providing enough energy across the northern Corn Belt for thunderstorm development early Wednesday from Minnesota into Wisconsin. A little disturbance with these thunderstorms will continue eastward Wednesday, which may turn into more severe clusters across the Great Lakes later in the day. Additional storms may develop in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies as well. All of this activity is coming on the northern end of a ridge of heat that continues to spread throughout the U.S. with significantly hot temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |
Legislation Would Exempt Farms From Emission Reporting A group of lawmakers last week introduced legislation to exclude reporting of routine emissions from livestock farms to state and local emergency response authorities. The National Pork Producers Council supports the legislation. Pork producers and other livestock industries have engaged with federal and state regulators for decades over permitting and reporting of air emissions. This engagement has included both the air consent agreements that many producers signed, exempting them from having to file emergency reports to first responders. In 2018, Congress permanently exempted livestock farmers from having to report emissions under the Superfund law to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Response Center. At the same time, EPA exempted those same farms from making similar reports to state and local first responders. Following litigation, the Biden Administration agreed to re-open that rulemaking to reconsider the exemption from the emergency release reporting rule. The new legislation would clarify that the 2018 Farms Act, and EPA’s prior regulations, were correct and that livestock farms should not be required to inundate local fire departments with emission reports. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Research, Extension and Education at 1890 Land-grant Universities The Department of Agriculture announced Monday an investment of more than $33 million to support capacity-building efforts at 1890 Land-grant Universities. The investment, administered through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will support 82 research, Extension, and education projects across the nation’s 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as 1890 Land-grant Universities. The projects are part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, which is designed to build capacity for teaching, research, and Extension activities. Eligible institutions are receiving funding for a range of activities, including curriculum design, materials development, faculty development, student recruitment and retention, and Extension program development support. Research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant Universities with resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities. All 19 eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities will receive funding through the program. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects Corn Board Delegates Delegates attending the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress last week elected four farmers to serve on the organization’s Corn Board. The leaders will take office October 1, the start of NCGA’s 2024 fiscal year. The new board members are Troy Schneider of Colorado, Kelly Nieuwenhuis (new-in-house) of Iowa and Bill Leigh of Illinois. Current board member Jed Bower of Ohio was re-elected. All four candidates were elected to three-year terms. NCGA Nominating Committee Chairman Chris Edgington says, “This year’s Corn Board candidates brought impressive records of service to their fellow farmers." The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization while directing policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board members represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress. Members also act as spokesmen for the NCGA and enhance the organization's public standing on all organizational and policy issues. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Mostly Use Manure Sources from Their Own Operations Farmers who utilize manure as a fertilizer mostly get the aromatic livestock byproduct from their own operations. New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows most manure applied to U.S. cropland, 78 percent, comes from animals raised on the same operation. Meanwhile, 14 percent is purchased, and eight percent is obtained at no cost from other animal operations. In 2020, manure was applied to about 8 percent of the 240.9 million acres planted to 7 major U.S. field crops. For most crops, farmers use manure that either comes from their own farm or at no cost from other farms. However, cotton and peanut producers are the most likely to purchase manure, typically from poultry growers. Among all animal manure types, poultry litter has the highest nutrient content, making it less costly to transport. Animal producers who apply their operations’ manure to their own crops account for a high proportion of manure used on oats, corn, and barley crops, followed by soybean and wheat. *********************************************************************************** California Consumes Nearly All U.S. Renewable Diesel California accounts for nearly all renewable diesel consumption in the United States, according to data released last week by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. California's consumption of renewable diesel was more than eight times the amount produced there in 2021. Instead, most of California’s renewable diesel was produced in other states or was imported. California’s renewable diesel consumption grew substantially after its Low Carbon Fuel Standard went into effect in 2011. Between 2011 and 2021, consumption grew from one million barrels to 28 million barrels per year, over 18 times its original volume. Six states—Louisiana, North Dakota, California, Wyoming, Washington, and Kansas—accounted for all renewable diesel production in the United States in 2021. Many of the plants in the other states have exclusive agreements to send all of the renewable diesel they produce to distributors in California. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity could more than double by 2025, boosting domestic production. *********************************************************************************** Gasoline Supply at Lowest Level Since 2015 The nation's average price of gasoline increased 2.1 cents last week to $3.55 per gallon. The national average diesel price increased 2.7 cents in the last week and stands at $3.83 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a remarkably quiet summer for gas prices, which have been far less active than normal." The national average gas price has remained in the same ten-cent range since April. The rally in oil prices has been sustained into a fourth straight week, with refined products joining in with oil to show impressive strength, with the last week seeing a sharper upside than previous weeks. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.6 percent rise last week as demand pushed higher into late July, typically when summer demand peaks. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.90 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.30 per gallon.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer confidence in July is set for 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting Tuesday that is expected to result in a quarter-percent increase on Wednesday afternoon. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be out at 2 p.m. CDT. Traders remain fixated on the latest weather developments and events from Ukraine. Weather A dome of high temperatures continues to expand and intensify across the U.S. on Tuesday. On the northern edge of the heat, a system going through Canada will make for some showers across the Northern Plains and into the Upper Midwest, some of which may be severe and lessen the impact of the increasing heat.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |
Milk Producers React to USDA Announcement on FMMO U.S. dairy farmers applaud the USDA for moving forward by including the full scope of the National Milk Producers Federation proposal on the Federal Milk Marketing Order system, which the agency is in the process of modernizing. The recognition of National Milk’s consensus-based leadership allows the industry to continue the momentum for the changes achieved so far. Each piece of the proposal - from returning to the “higher-of” Class One mover as soon as possible to updating both Class One price differentials and manufacturing cost allowances - has been crucial toward building that consensus. “All the components of our plan are critical to a successful update to this important program,” says NMPF Board chair Randy Mooney. “There is still a long journey ahead toward a modernized federal order system that works better for farmers, but NMPF is ready.” The Federation is excited to help lead the industry toward solutions that work for everyone. *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Would Bring Transparency to Foreign Land Purchases Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase the transparency and oversight of foreign ownership in America’s agricultural industry. The “Farmland Security Act of 2023” builds on the “Farmland Security Act of 2022” by ensuring that all foreign investors, including “shell companies,” who buy American agricultural land report their holdings and strengthens the penalties for those who evade the required filing. It also invests in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland and agricultural production capacity has on our domestic food supply, family farms, and rural communities. Current reporting shows that foreign-owned agricultural acreage has increased in recent years. However, the data that’s been collected is incomplete or inaccurate. The new legislation will direct USDA to conduct an annual compliance audit to ensure accuracy and provide annual training to state and county-level USDA staff on identifying non-reporting of foreign-owned agricultural land. *********************************************************************************** CBO Director Responds to Complaints on Farm Bill Numbers House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders recently sent a letter to the Congressional Budget Office complaining about the slow response to their requests for scores on farm bill provisions. CBO Director Phillip Swagel said in a letter that they have already responded to more than 1,000 requests, and they expect to respond to hundreds more in the weeks ahead. The Fencepost says the leaders’ letter strongly encouraged the Budget Committees in both Chambers of Congress to use all their available resources to reorganize the CBO staff to prioritize farm bill requests. They also encouraged the office to hire or contract additional staff or find qualified professionals outside the agency to help. However, Swagel says, “Securing additional personnel from outside the agency isn’t practical at this point as it would delay work on the current legislation. It would take too much time to bring them up to speed on CBO’s procedures.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Providing $250 Million to Ukraine Farmers U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power says the U.S. will provide another $250 million in aid to Ukraine’s agricultural producers. Feedstuffs says the money will get distributed through AGRI-Ukraine, an initiative that began in 2022 to help support Ukraine’s agricultural exports and to combat global food security issues made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Power says multiple groups are working together to keep Ukraine farming and producing commodities. USAID has already been helping Ukraine’s farmers store the grain they can’t sell. It’s also working with private sector partners to provide financing, seed, and fertilizer. Power says the additional investments should help Ukraine’s producers to plant new crops even if they can’t sell grain from their previous harvests. “These investments that the U.S. and partners are making will not only help Ukraine win the war but also help them to build a much more resilient future,” Power adds. *********************************************************************************** Students Hit Capitol Hill A select group of nine college students from around the nation completed the Ag Voices of the Future Program July 10-13 while in Washington, D.C. The program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association and Valent, U.S.A., gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in the nation’s capital. The class was held in conjunction with ASA’s summer board meeting and other soy events. “It’s important that young people have an understanding of the significant policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” says ASA President Daryl Cates. “ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that helps to cultivate future voices for agriculture in D.C." The three-day program was busy with multiple activities and networking opportunities. Students heard from ASA and Valent’s industry and government affairs representatives and a House member about their current position and past career experience. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Urban Agriculture, Food, and Market Access USDA announced a series of investments that will increase market access and revenue streams for producers while strengthening the food system. The investments will also give consumers better access to locally-grown foods and healthier choices. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small made the announcement in Philadelphia. “The USDA announced 17 new Urban Service Centers and ten new urban county committees, as well as approximately $10.7 million in investments in Farm to School and an expansion of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative,” Vilsack says. “It also includes $30 million in funding availability for the new Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Initiative.” The secretary also says these investments will allow families and farmers alike to benefit from healthier food produced close to home. “Families should have access to locally grown food wherever they live, and farmers should have profitable markets regardless of zip code,” says Torres Small.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Heat Domes, Missiles and Wheat Tour Lead Stories This Week 1. Missiles Fall, Temperatures Climb: The drivers in grain markets short-term are the oncoming heat (see below) and Vladimir Putin's ongoing onslaught of Ukraine grain ports. That puts pressure on overland movement of grain out of Ukraine through neighboring countries, and the storage backlog will eventually influence how much farmers there can plant. . 2. Weather Patterns Quiet, Hot: Recent rain systems, and the active weather pattern that spawned them, have improved soil moisture conditions in a lot of areas. But the patterns, they are a changing, says our Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. A high-pressure dome and less active patterns will bring heat and dryness. The critical question is did rains bring enough soil moisture reserves to help crops get through the coming heat, which could generally last through the end of July and into August? There is a lot of pollination, grain fill and pod set going on as things heat up. Baranick notes the predicted conditions are pushing the boundaries of current weather models; some have spit out temperature possibilities above 110 Fahrenheit in the western and central Corn Belt. It's unlikely temps will get that high in any sustained way, Baranick adds, but it will be unpleasant. Stay hydrated, take breaks out of the sun and heat, and pay special attention to livestock and those that can't take care of themselves 3. Spring Wheat Tour: We'll have daily coverage of the 2023 Hard Spring Wheat and Durum Tour. DTN Crops Editor Jason Jenkins will be on the tour, with his reports starting Tuesday evening. This year's tour, sponsored by the Wheat Quality Council, will cover North Dakota and Western Minnesota. It will not include South Dakota due to low wheat acres there. Final yield predictions will be out mid-day Thursday. 4. Preparing for 2023 DTN Digital Yield Tour: The sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, kicks off Aug. 7. In the weeks ahead, DTN reporters and editors will be out gathering on-the-ground information on crop conditions as we prepare to learn where Gro's satellite-driven yield models put the 2023 crop. This year we'll also get additional dirty-boots data from our friends at Farmers Independent Research of Seed Technologies, or FIRST. 5. Economic News This Week: We'll cover the latest USDA Crop Progress reports, hitting Monday afternoon. Wednesday will see news on latest U.S. new homes sales out at 9 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The latest Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, durable goods orders for June and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas report follows at 9:30 a.m. Friday brings a collection of reports to help gauge inflation: At 7:30 a.m. we'll see the U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures for June, the report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for July hits at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather reports and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly inspections report is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cluster of thunderstorms is moving down the Missouri Valley early Monday and some additional showers and thunderstorms are expected in the Midwest Monday as a ridge of heat over the West spreads eastward. Heat will be stressful this week, but some areas are going to see rain and potential severe weather.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |
USDA Accepts Almost 2.7 Million Acres in CRP The USDA is accepting offers for nearly 2.7 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners in this year’s Grassland Conservation Reserve Program signup. The program received a record-setting signup of 4.6 million acres in offers. The working lands program allows producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while protecting grasslands and furthering the CRP’s impacts. “This year’s Grassland CRP signup demonstrates the continued popularity and success in voluntary, producer-led, working lands conservation programs,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “Grassland CRP clearly demonstrates that conservation priorities and agricultural productivity can coexist, complement, and enhance one another.” USDA had to accept fewer acres and a lower percentage of offers than in 2022 because the program has reached its acreage cap. “With the low number of future expiring acres, getting closer to the statutory cap of 27 million acres would hinder the ability to conduct future signups,” Ducheneaux adds. *********************************************************************************** USB Sets Fiscal Year 2024 Budget The 77 people serving on the United Soybean Board approved $191.5 million for the 2024 fiscal year budget. The budget supports research, promotion, and education investment portfolios selected through USB’s Portfolio Development Process. These investments help drive demand for U.S. soy and return value to all U.S. soybean farmers. The total budget also includes execution, oversight, and program support. “I hope U.S. soybean farmers are proud of their checkoff as we pool our resources to improve our reliability and sustainability in delivering our crop to the global marketplace,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair and Missouri farmer. “As we look to next year, we know that soy delivers solutions, and in many cases, it serves as a drop-in replacement to improve our carbon footprint across thousands of products.” She also says it’s important to make significant gains and drive return on investment back to farmers. “The future is bright,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** Animal Ag Alliance Releases Extremism Report The Animal Agriculture Alliance released reports detailing the interconnectedness of the animal rights movement and their tactics targeting animal agriculture. “No matter the animal rights extremist group or the tactics used, they all share the same goal of eliminating animal agriculture and taking meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood off grocery store shelves and family tables,” says Abby Kornegay, AAA manager of issues and engagement. Almost one-third of all animal rights extremist attacks documented in 2022 targeted farmers and food workers, putting them and the animals in danger. Some of their documented actions against animal ag include 95 vandalism incidents, 70 stolen animals, 60 criminal trespasses, ten arson cases, and nine harassment and intimidation incidents. “Extremists are getting ever bolder in their efforts against animal agriculture, and direct actions at the farm, processing facility, and retail store continue rising,” Kornegay adds. For information about proactive security measures, go to animalalliance.org. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Improve Credit for Critical Rural Facilities The Investing in Rural America Act was introduced in the House of Representatives, and the Farm Credit Council reacted positively. “We thank those who introduced the legislation for their commitment to rural communities,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. “This legislation will spur the development of critical facilities in rural communities, such as hospitals, childcare centers, schools, and more.” He also says the bill will facilitate partnerships between Farm Credit, community banks, and other lenders to provide much-needed capital to build, renovate, and modernize rural community facilities. “Those kinds of facilities are critical to the viability of rural communities because they play key roles in improving the quality of life for rural families,” Van Hoose adds. “Yet, many communities lack these essential facilities, while many other facilities need modernization.” Minnesota Rep Michelle Fischbach says one way Congress can support rural communities is by eliminating unnecessary barriers to capital investment. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cotton Ending Stocks Set to Increase The USDA cotton projections for August-July indicate that global cotton ending stocks will increase by 570,000 bales (0.6 percent) to 94.5 million bales. That’s the second-highest level since 2014-2015. As production exceeds mill use for a second year in a row, world cotton prices are forecast lower than the $1.01 per pound estimated for 2022-2023 and the recent high in 2021-2022 of almost $1.32 per pound. Although the world harvested area is projected to increase two percent, or 600,000 hectares, a projected decrease in the global yield reduces the production estimate year-over-year. Global cotton production is forecast to decrease by 1.1 million bales, or one percent, from 2022-2023 to 116.8 million bales in 2023-2024. The largest gains in the world are expected to come from Pakistan and India. World trade expectations (43.5 million bales) show a considerable increase from 2022-2023, rising with the projected rebound in 2023-2024 global cotton mill use. *********************************************************************************** MN Rep Wins NCGA President’s Award Minnesota Representative Angie Craig is the winner of the National Corn Growers Association’s 2023 President’s Award. She was honored during the organization’s annual Corn Congress summer meeting in Washington, D.C. Tom Haag (HAYG), NCGA President and a Minnesota corn grower, had high praise for the congresswoman. “Whether it’s ensuring that consumers have access to higher levels of ethanol or it’s working to advance corn grower priorities in the farm bill, Craig has been a tireless advocate for growers and is one of our biggest Congressional allies.” Craig, Minnesota’s Second District Representative, says, “My district is home to so many of the corn growers who get food on our tables and fuel in our vehicles. I’m honored to represent them.” Craig has championed many issues important to corn growers. Earlier this year, she joined a bipartisan group of House members in re-introducing a bill that would allow year-round access to E15.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle on-feed inventory and U.S. cattle inventory reports, both for July 1 are due out at 2 p.m. CDT, the only significant reports on Friday. Traders continue to keep close watch on the latest weather developments and happenings in Ukraine. Weather A cold front pressing south through the country will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms, some possibly severe with heavy rain. Fairly comfortable temperatures remain north of the front with largely drier conditions. Some isolated showers may be possible farther north in the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |
USDA Partnership to Reduce Anticompetitive Barriers USDA launched a partnership with bipartisan attorneys general in 31 states and the District of Columbia to enhance competition and protect consumers in food and agricultural markets. Through the agreement, this partnership will assist the state attorneys general in tackling anticompetitive market structures in agriculture and related industries that are raising prices and limiting choices for consumers and producers. “Through these cooperative agreements, we can ensure a more robust and competitive agricultural sector,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I’m happy to see that a bipartisan group of states is committed to joining USDA in better protecting the fair and competitive markets that are a critical cornerstone of the American economy.” Areas of focus for the Agricultural Competition Partnership include anti-competitive market structures and practices, as well as price gouging and other anti-consumer practices in food, retail, meat, and poultry processing. Others include a lack of choices for consumers and producers. *********************************************************************************** Methane Emissions Reduction for Beef Cattle Cargill recently partnered with TREES Consulting to develop a new Gold Standard-approved methodology giving beef producers a way to measure methane emissions reductions. The methodology uses feed supplements incorporated into beef cattle diets. The new methodology defines a set of parameters that beef producers can adopt to quantify reductions in methane emissions, a greenhouse gas derived from the digestion process in cattle as well as manure handling. It’s now available for beef producers to quantify, audit, and verify methane reductions, enabling them to register their GHG mitigation projects for Gold Standard Certification. Those verified emissions reductions can be traded in carbon markets, allowing credit purchasers to directly support the projects. “We are committed to finding ways to ensure that producers can get recognized and rewarded for their emissions reduction efforts,” says Margaret Kim, CEO of Gold Standard. For more information about the new methodology, go to Cargill’s “Feeding Intelligence” site. *********************************************************************************** Newhouse Launches ESA Working Group Washington Representative Dan Newhouse, the Congressional Western Caucus, and the House Committee on Natural Resources launched the Endangered Species Act Working Group. The new group will look into how the Endangered Species Act is being implemented by federal agencies, the practical impacts on the American people, how litigation is driving ESA decision-making, and how success is currently defined under the act. The group intends to publish a series of policy recommendations that reform the ESA to the benefit of the American people and species conservation. “It’s clear the ESA desperately needs reform,” Newhouse says. “Not just for the sake of our species, but for the people who are negatively impacted because of its land-use restrictions, impact on property values, and costly permitting requirements.” Hundreds of species are listed under the act, but only three percent have been delisted. “Clearly, something is not working,” says Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman of Arkansas. *********************************************************************************** NACD 2023 Summer Conservation Forum Held This Week in ND The National Association of Conservation Districts held the 2023 Summer Conservation Forum and Tours in Bismarck, North Dakota. This summer’s meeting brought together conservation leaders from across the country to discuss emerging natural resource concerns and innovative solutions. The meeting included a grassland conservation and grazing management panel, as well as remarks from Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby and Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. North Dakota Senator John Hoeven spoke about the importance of locally-led conservation, partnerships, and an approach that isn’t one size fits all. “Make the approach fit farmers and ranchers,” he said. NACD President Kim LaFleur emphasized the importance of developing next-generation leaders at all levels and engaging new audiences and partners. The event also gave attendees the opportunity to see conservation in action, including a tour of the Black Leg Ranch. Several other conservation leaders addressed changing natural resource challenges in their regions. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Southeast Asia Trade Mission USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore from October 30-November 3. The Foreign Ag Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters wanting to take part in the trade mission. “Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia,” Taylor says. “These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region.” She also says consumer demand for American products in both countries is on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. America’s agricultural and related product exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent between 2012 and 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Organization Names American Star Finalists The National FFA Organization has announced the 16 finalists for its 2023 top achievement awards. The awards include the American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement, and the American Star in Agriscience. The American Star Awards represent the best of the best among thousands of American FFA Degree recipients. The award recognizes FFA members who have developed outstanding agricultural skills and competencies by completing a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) program. A required activity, the SAE allows members to learn by doing. Members can own and operate an agricultural business, intern at an agricultural business, or conduct an agriculture-based scientific experience and report the results. Other requirements for receiving an award include demonstrating top management skills, completing key agricultural education, scholastic, and leadership requirements, and earning an American FFA Degree, the organization’s highest level of student accomplishment. For more information about the American Star Awards, go to FFA.org/Stars.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. existing home sales and U.S. leading indicators, both for June are out at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the weather and latest events out of Ukraine. Weather A system moving through the eastern Midwest will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, some of which may be severe with wind and hail. The front to the system will be an area to watch for significant severe storms Thursday afternoon and evening across Colorado and Kansas with a significant severe wind threat and heavy rain potential. To the south of the front, heat and humidity continue to be intense.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |
Russia Attacks Ukraine Grain Port One day after Russia terminated the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the country attacked Ukraine grain facilities at the Odesa port. Russia terminated the deal following an attack by Ukraine on a bridge in the Crimean Peninsula. The port attacks were in retaliation to the Ukraine attack. The Black Sea grain export deal allowed for the safe transport of grain through the Black Sea by Ukraine. Reuters reports that any attempt to reopen Ukrainian grain shipments without Russia's participation would depend on insurance companies agreeing to provide coverage. Russia could return to the grain deal, but only if its demands are met for rules to be eased for its own exports of food and fertilizer. The country, for now, has not guaranteed the safety of ships in the Black Sea carrying products from Ukraine. Ukraine has invested in other ports, and could shift grain to those, but at a reduced shipping capacity. *********************************************************************************** Ad Hoc Government Payments Caused Farmers to Store More Grain University research shows ad hoc payments result in farmers holding more grain in storage. Published by the University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY, the research estimated the impact of the unprecedented surge in ad hoc farm payments from 2018 to 2020 on grain inventories held by farmers. Under the Market Facilitation Program, U.S. farmers received approximately $23 billion during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 marketing years. While USDA designed MFP to avoid distorting farmer planting and production decisions, these payments may still have affected farm decision-making, in particular, the decision to store production after harvest. However, the research estimates the impact of MFP payments on the market-level inventories was modest. Even in the case of soybeans in December 2018, the market and quarter where with the largest impact, U.S. soybean stocks were only 226 million bushels or six percent higher than they would have been in the absence of MFP payments. The conclusion: MFP did impact outcomes relevant to commodity price levels, though any potential market distortion was likely small. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Again a Top Beef Supplier to Japan The United States is again a top supplier of beef to Japan, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. U.S. market share collapsed in 2004 after a single case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly referred to as “mad cow disease,” was detected in a cow shipped from Canada to the United States. In response, Japan placed an embargo on all U.S. and Canadian beef products. In 2006, Japan began phasing out the ban on U.S. beef and fully lifted it in May 2019. Over this period, U.S. beef imports rebounded nearly to pre-ban levels, shipping 233,000 metric tons to Japan in 2021. The U.S. is now the second largest supplier of beef to Japan, behind Australia. Recently ratified trade agreements between Japan and these partner countries are expected to contribute to changes in Japan’s market for imported beef. Researchers estimate that by 2033, annual scheduled reductions in Japan’s import tariffs will increase imports of U.S. beef by 27 percent, or $413.8 million, from 2018 levels. *********************************************************************************** AEM Study Shows Environmental Benefits of Precision Agriculture A new study for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows the environmental benefits of precision agriculture. The study examined the impact of various technologies on the production of row crops, broad acre crops, roots and tubers, as well as forage. The data overwhelmingly shows that precision agriculture can have a positive environmental impact in all of these areas. Precision agriculture leverages technologies to enhance sustainability through more efficient use of land, water, fuel, fertilizer and pesticides. Essentially, farmers who use precision agriculture technologies use less to grow more, reducing both cost and environmental impact. In consultation with several environmental groups, AEM identified five areas with the most potential to impact the environment. Precision agriculture results in a four percent increase in crop production, seven percent increase in fertilizer placement efficiency, a nine percent reduction in pesticide use, a six percent reduction in fossil fuel use and a four percent reduction in water use. *********************************************************************************** USTR Announces Fiscal Year 2024 WTO Sugar Tariff-Rate Quota Allocations The U.S. Trade Representative’s office Tuesday announced the country-specific and first-come, first-served in-quota allocations of the tariff-rate quotas for imported sugar. The tariff-rate quotas, or TRQs, apply to raw sugar, refined and specialty sugar, and sugar-containing products, for fiscal year 2024, that begins October 1. TRQs allow countries to export specified quantities of a product to the United States at a relatively low tariff, but subject all imports of the product above a pre-determined threshold to a higher tariff. Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture announced the establishment of the in-quota quantity for raw cane sugar for FY 2024. The in-quota quantity for the TRQ on raw cane sugar for FY 2024 is 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, which is the minimum amount to which the United States is committed under the World Trade Organization Agreement. USTR is allocating the raw cane sugar TRQ of 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, to a set of countries included in the announcement. *********************************************************************************** Hot Summer Means More Natural Gas Consumption The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts record-high natural gas consumption in the United States for electricity generation in July and August. The forecast comes as another hot summer increases demand for air conditioning. In its July Short-Term Energy Outlook, EIA expects about four percent more U.S. electricity generation from natural gas in July and August 2023 than in 2022. Natural gas will provide about 46 percent of U.S. electricity for those two months and provide 41 percent of U.S. electricity for the year, according to EIA's forecast. EIA also expects a six percent increase in electricity generation from renewables and a two percent increase in generation from nuclear energy. Also, EIA reduced its forecast for growth in U.S. renewable diesel production from previous forecasts. An EIA spokesperson says, "We still expect significant growth in renewable diesel production, but changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard slightly lower the growth rate in the short term.” EIA expects the United States to produce about 161,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel in 2023, which is a 66 percent increase from 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to pay close attention to the latest weather developments in a summer of volatile pricing for corn and soybeans. Events in Ukraine are also getting attention as summer fighting escalates. Weather A front across the Tennessee Valley and a system moving through the Upper Midwest are producing areas of showers and thunderstorms for Wednesday, under mainly mild temperatures for the Corn Belt. Some stronger storms may be possible from Nebraska into Minnesota and Wisconsin. Heat continues to be in place across the Southern Plains and across the Southeast.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |
EPA Denies 26 RFS Small Refinery Exemptions The Environmental Protection Agency has denied 26 Small Refinery Exemption petitions for the Renewable Fuel Standard spanning compliance years 2016-2018 and 2021-2023. The action demonstrates the agency’s continued commitment to ending the backlog of pending SREs. The American Soybean Association welcomed the continued transparent and fair assessment of SREs through more stringent hardship and economic impact requirements. Historically, significant SRE approvals without clear and consistent metrics for evaluation created vast market uncertainty and undermined the intent of the RFS, creating a challenging environment for continued growth in the biomass-based diesel industry. EPA has worked in recent years to develop new parameters for petition approvals that have proven effective at strengthening the RFS. ASA is pleased with this progress and hopes EPA will continue to work with the biofuels industry to implement the RFS as intended. With the finalization of these 26 SRE petition denials, EPA has cut down SRE backlogs significantly, with only two outstanding petitions remaining from compliance year 2018. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: U.S. Economic Slowdown Likely Ahead The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. CoBank's Knowledge Exchange says the full impact of monetary policy actions--raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply--have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality regarding food costs. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Women in Agriculture Bill Lawmakers recently introduced the Women in Agriculture Act. The legislation would establish a research priority for agriculture machinery and equipment designed to be used by women, and create a funding set aside for childcare facilities in rural areas. The bill also creates a Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison position at the Department of Agriculture. Although the number of women in the agriculture industry is growing, the majority of tools are designed and manufactured the height, strength and body type of a man. Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat from Maine, led the introduction of the bill. She says, “The Women in Agriculture Act provides resources specifically for women farmers and ranchers to level the playing field and work towards a fairer agriculture industry." In 2019, women accounted for 26 percent of the farm labor workforce, a 19 percent increase since 2009. However, farms operated by women earn 40 percent less income compared to male-dominated farms. *********************************************************************************** Deadline July 26 to Apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Organic Dairy producers have a few days left to apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance from the Department of Agriculture. The Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program assists certified organic dairy producers facing unique challenges in recent years, including higher costs attributed to the pandemic and drought conditions across the country. USDA's Farm Service Agency provides financial assistance for a producer's projected marketing costs in 2023 based on 2022 costs. The program provides a one-time cost-share payment, based on marketing costs, on pounds of organic milk marketed in the 2022 calendar year. The financial assistance provides immediate support to certified organic dairy operations during 2023, keeping organic dairy operations sustainable until the markets return to more normal conditions. SDA will invest $104 million in financial assistance to certified organic dairy producers. Organic dairy producers should apply by July 26, 2023, at their local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Consumers’ Food Spending Hit Record High in 2022 New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows consumer spending on food reached a record in 2022. Real, or inflation-adjusted, annual food spending in the United States increased steadily from 1997 to 2022, except in 2008 and 2009 during the Great Recession and in 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic. Food spending includes food at home, described as food intended for off-premises consumption from retailers such as grocery stores, and food away from home, described as food purchased at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias. Total food spending increased 70 percent from 1997 to 2022. During this period, food at home spending increased at a slower rate, 53 percent, than for food away from home at 89 percent. Total food spending increased on an annual basis by 7.2 percent in 2021 and 4.5 percent in 2022. Food away from home spending increases, 19 percent in 2021 and eight percent in 2022, drove overall increases in food spending. *********************************************************************************** MGP Ingredients to Close Industrial Alcohol Distillery MGP Ingredients last week announced the planned closure of its industrial alcohol distillery expected in January 2024. The facility in Atchison, Kansas, produces grain neutral spirits, industrial alcohol products and related co-products. The decision to close this distillery is consistent with the company’s plan to address profitability headwinds associated within the sector. MGP Ingredients will continue to operate and invest in its Ingredient Solutions business located in Atchison, Kansas, including the previously announced $16.7 million-dollar texturized protein facility scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The company will also continue to operate and invest in its Lawrenceburg, Indiana, distillery operations. MGP President and CEO David Colo says, “The additional supply of grain neutral spirits and industrial alcohol that has entered the market during the past few years has had a meaningful and structural impact on the market.” The company also cited the increase in local corn basis costs that reduced profitability.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales in June is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather Remnants of a storm complex from western South Dakota Monday night will continue across eastern Nebraska and Missouri Tuesday morning. By Tuesday afternoon, storms will expand into the Tennessee Valley and Ohio Valley. More scattered storms will also form across the eastern Dakotas, Minnesota, and northern Iowa by Tuesday evening. The strongest storms are expected across Missouri, southern Illinois, eastern Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as eastern North Dakota. Damaging winds and isolated, large hail will be the main threats with thunderstorms Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |
CoBank: U.S. economic slowdown likely ahead Full impact of monetary policy actions have yet to be felt. The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. Consumers continue to spend aggressively on services, businesses are still investing and the labor market remains incredibly strong. Secure jobs are the most important element in consumer spending and well-employed Americans have powered the economic recovery for three years. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. According to a new quarterly report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the full impact of monetary policy actions—raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply—have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. “There is still a lot of wind at the back of this economy, and we don’t believe a severe contraction is coming,” said Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “But we do believe it is important to not misinterpret delayed impacts for minimal impacts. Monetary effects can be slow in developing, and history tells us that the economy can seem just fine right before a recession hits.” The labor market remains relatively tight, but the situation has improved significantly as female and non-native workers have stormed back into the work force. The labor force participation rate for women between the ages of 25-54 now stands at an all-time high, up more than 4% from the low in April 2020. Foreign-born employment has increased at roughly double the pace of native-born employment since April 2020. The successes in these two groups have been critical so far in the economic recovery. But looking forward, it raises the question of how many more workers are available to be coaxed in off the sidelines. Ultimately, the U.S. labor force challenges are far from over. Grains, farm supply & biofuels With the corn and soybean growing season in full swing, drought across the Central U.S. is driving heightened seasonal market volatility. Markets are balancing the quickly deteriorating crop conditions against the potential for El Nino to bring wetter conditions later in the growing season. Wheat harvest is advancing northward in the U.S. and is revealing high variability in crop quality. USDA expects the U.S. hard red winter wheat crop to be the smallest since 1957 on substantially higher abandonments and lower yields. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Prices were weighed down by reduced demand, as farmers took advantage of pre-payment programs last fall to purchase fertilizer in advance. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. Grain and farm supply cooperatives paid about 50% more for property and casualty insurance coverage during the January and April 2023 renewal seasons. The ethanol complex delivered strong second quarter results with steady production and above-average profitability. Operating margins averaged 45 cents per gallon, nearly double the long-term average. While the finalized blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) were somewhat disappointing for ethanol, they were incrementally positive for biomass-based diesel. The new rules call for 2.82 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel in 2023 and 3.35 billion gallons in 2025. Animal protein & dairy As the summer grilling season kicked off, beef demand remained incredibly resilient despite elevated prices for consumers. Retail beef prices averaged $7.50 per pound in May, a record high for the period, and an increase of 2% year-over-year. Robust demand combined with tighter cattle supplies spurred market momentum for cattle. Fed cattle values reached record levels, above $180 per cwt. and feeder cattle shot above $240 per cwt. While consumers have yet to balk at higher beef prices, things could quickly change when seasonal support wanes. Excess hog supply and weak pork demand put hog prices in jeopardy this spring. After a steady start to the year, the CME lean hog index tumbled about $10/cwt., to $72 from mid-March to late April. However, more favorable market conditions across the animal protein segment drove lean hog values up 30% through May and June. While still down about $15 year-over-year, the pork cutout landed in the upper $90s, gaining about $20 per cwt. through the quarter. Domestic chicken consumption was up about 4% year-over-year through June 1, which has helped chip away at elevated cold storage holdings. Wholesale broiler meat prices have largely rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, following significant declines in late 2022 and early 2023. Feed costs have come down about 10% from last year but remain well above their historic averages. For broiler integrators, increased feed costs coupled with higher operational expenses have crimped profitability. U.S. milk producers continue to struggle in the current price environment. The national all-in mailbox milk price has dropped below the $20/cwt. mark after averaging $25.34/cwt. in 2022. While several factors are to blame for this year’s milk price decline, the sharp drop in American/cheddar-style cheese prices is the most significant. Prices for the category have dropped by one-third since the beginning of the year. Milk and feed futures suggest producer profitability should improve considerably by October when Class III milk prices are anticipated to increase by about $3.00/cwt. Cotton, rice & specialty crops U.S. cotton production is rebounding from last year’s crop that was devastated by extreme drought across the southwest. Recent rainfall in top-producing Texas is expected to reduce abandonment following three years of severe drought. The U.S. cotton crop is now estimated at 16.5 million bales, up 14% from last year. Price inflation for clothing and apparel in the U.S. continues to ease with the moderation of cotton prices, which may work to draw in new consumer demand. U.S. rice production is expected to recover from last year’s small crop, although concerns over dryness and worsening conditions in the mid-South have led to increased volatility of rough rice prices. With improved water availability this year, California medium grain rice production is also expected to rebound with planted acreage at 465,000 acres. That’s a substantial increase from last year’s planted acreage of 220,000 acres that were restricted by historic drought conditions. Sugar prices remain historically high as markets ration tight global supplies. USDA currently calls for a rebound in world sugar production for 2023-2024, but concerns are growing that El Nino will result in smaller harvests in 2023-2024. In the U.S., there is no relief in sight for high prices as wet weather delayed planting across northern states this spring, which resulted in a smaller U.S. sugarbeet crop. The tight farm labor market continues to be especially challenging for U.S. specialty crop producers. The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco reported that weekly median wages for farm workers swelled to a record high $915 in April, a 24% increase from the year earlier. In June, the House Agriculture Committee created a bipartisan working group, tasked with evaluating the H-2A program and finding solutions for the labor supply challenges facing farmers. Food & beverage While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality when it comes to food costs. Rising food prices are challenging both at-home and away-from-home food spending. The Consumer Price Index for all food in May was 6.7% higher than May 2022, while food away-from-home prices were up 8.3%. To offset higher prices, consumers are continuing behaviors initially seen during the pandemic, namely eating more meals at home. Foot traffic in restaurants remains well below pre-pandemic levels.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |
High Production Costs Won’t Ease Next Year USDA’s first cost of production forecast for major field crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice, and others shows that input costs are expected to remain elevated into the next growing season. The costs will likely be at the third-highest level of all time and only slightly lower than the record high in 2022. While some input costs like fertilizer and chemicals are expected to decline from 2023 to 2024, other expenses like seed costs, labor, machinery and equipment, taxes, and insurance are expected to rise. Since 2020, the total costs paid by farmers to raise crops and care for livestock have increased by more than $100 billion, or 28 percent, to an all-time high of $460 billion this year. Based on USDA’s current input cost projections, trend yields, and commodity price trends, several major field crops may experience marketing year average prices below breakeven levels this year and possibly into 2024. *********************************************************************************** White House Hosts Event on Competition in the Farm Bill The USDA and White House co-hosted a meeting to discuss competition priorities in the farm bill. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew took part, saying that the U.S. needs a farm bill that prioritizes fair and competitive markets. “Today’s event shows the need for this issue to be addressed in the 2023 Farm Bill,” Larew says. “Our Fairness for Farmers Campaign has sounded the alarm on monopolies, and this meeting is a sign our concerns are being heard by our decision-makers.” The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association also took part in the event. USCA Vice President Lia Biondo says the discussion marked progress toward a fairer, more competitive marketplace. “A Texas A & M study shows that without the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act, negotiated trade in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico is expected to fall to zero by 2026,” she says. “Zero percent negotiated trade is a wholly vertically-consolidated industry.” *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Company Launches Relief Effort for Ukrainian Farmers The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization says Ukraine’s farmers have suffered $3.9 billion in losses since Russia invaded in February 2022. A U.N. study says cultivated area has decreased nine percent since last year, and 12 percent of Ukraine’s farms report unexploded ordinances in their fields. EarthDaily Agro of Maple Grove, Minnesota, launched ‘Farmerhood,’ a fund-raising initiative to help farmers impacted by war. A Twin Cities TV station says the group’s fundraising goal is $1 million, enough to help 200 farmers. Dave Gebhart of EarthDaily says they’ve reached about $300,000 thanks to corporate sponsors. The group has received 300 requests for help from farmers in Ukraine. The farmers must have 1,200 acres or less to be eligible for assistance. The group says there is a thorough audit of the farmer’s property and location to make sure they can help those who suffer the most. For information, go to Farmerhood.org. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Praise Congressional Support of Beef Checkoff Cattle industry leaders praised the introduction of a bipartisan congressional resolution recognizing the importance of commodity checkoff programs, including the Beef Checkoff. As a cattle producer who invests in the checkoff, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson says he knows how important the program is to the industry’s success. “The Beef Checkoff was created by cattle producers and provides immense benefits to those producers,” he says. “I’m grateful for the resolution and the fact that lawmakers are standing with cattle producers to recognize the importance of checkoff programs.” He’s also hopeful that more members of Congress will listen to farmers and ranchers and reject animal rights activist-led proposals like the OFF Act that undermine producer control of checkoffs. “Checkoff-funded programs have led to the development of new cuts of beef and strengthened consumer trust in the cattle industry’s animal welfare and sustainability,” says NCBA Policy Division Chair Gene Copenhaver. ‘*********************************************************************************** Lamb Industry Sustainability Survey Needs Producer Input The American Lamb Board is looking for help from U.S. lamb producers and feeders regarding their environmental stewardship and other sustainability practices. The goal is to better inform consumers and direct checkoff programs about those practices. The survey runs until Monday, August 14. “It’s so important to have solid data that actually represents what our diverse American Lamb industry does, the progress we’ve made, and that helps us continually improve productivity, animal care, and sustainability,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from New York. “The U.S. lamb industry is often misrepresented, so we need solid, new data to correctly tell our story.” The ALB says the sustainability survey will help them communicate with retailers, chefs, and consumers. Also, the ALB will use the information to guide its industry education and research efforts so that checkoff funds are invested where they will make the most difference. For more information, go to bit.ly/USLambSurvey. *********************************************************************************** USDA Requests Input on GHG Measurement Plans USDA is requesting public input on the draft “Federal Strategy to Advance Greenhouse Gas Measurement and Monitoring for the Agriculture and Forestry Sectors.” The draft Federal Strategy outlines a framework for enhancing greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification within the agricultural and forestry sectors, with a special focus on the administration’s Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Initiative. It also aligns with ongoing work across the federal government to quantify carbon sequestration and carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions. USDA recently announced a $300 million investment to advance priorities set by the strategy. The Notice in the Federal Register seeks information on four topics: general comments or questions about the draft Federal Strategy; animal agriculture; croplands; and data & data sharing. Comments are invited from a variety of stakeholders, including users and providers of agriculture and forestry data, methods, and analyses, state and local agencies, private sector researchers, and non-governmental organizations.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Emergency Haying, WASDE Fallout Among Coming Stories OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Market Maneuvers: Last week's WASDE kicked off all kinds of market reactions. The "will he or won't he" on Russian President Putin extending the Black Sea export agreement is also playing with the trade. Watch for the latest in our Markets sections. 2. Tar Spot Spread: Several areas of Iowa, Indiana, Missouri and surrounding states are seeing outbreaks of tar spot in corn. We're continuing to track the spread of the disease, which can cut yields by as much as 50 bushels per acre. For our latest information on the disease, see Crop Editor Jason Jenkin's story here: 3. Some hay relief: USDA last week approved haying and grazing on some CRP acres due to drought. We're continuing to watch the tight forage and hay situation and will keep you informed on what that means to cattle and dairy. 4. Be safe in that hay field: In addition to CRP release, many states have opened roadside areas to haying by local farmers. It's a helpful resource, but it also puts hay crews out among speeding vehicles and potentially inattentive drivers. Be safe, use cones, flags or flashers (or all the above) in haying areas and have a guide vehicle on hand when moving equipment and hay bales in and around public roadways. 5. Learning top cuts: The "field to fork" movement, and concern over meat packer concentration, have driven a number of colleges and universities to either start or expand meat cutting education. We'll be looking into where that's happening and if it's keeping up with local slaughter demand. Watch for those stories coming soon.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check over the latest weather forecasts and news happenings. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed later Monday morning by soybean crush estimates for June from the National Oilseeds Processors Association. USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather Daytime thunderstorms will develop across the Ohio Valley and Mid-Mississippi Valley Monday afternoon. Later Monday evening and into Monday night, more storms will develop across South Dakota and Nebraska. Some storms could become strong to severe across Kentucky, southern Indiana, and far southern Illinois Monday afternoon while the main threat for severe storms across the Plains Monday night will be in southwest South Dakota into northeast Nebraska.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |
Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Climb Farm lending activity at commercial banks in the Kansas City Fed’s district slowed through the first half of 2023 as interest rates continued pushing higher. The volume of non-real estate farm loans at commercial banks declined for the second-consecutive quarter. The survey of commercial banks shows the volume of non-real estate loans was 15 percent below last year, and the drop was attributed to a lower average size of loans and a smaller number of loans compared with 2022. The average interest rates on agricultural loans increased for the sixth-consecutive quarter. The U.S. farm economy outlook has moderated in recent months as risks of more limited profit opportunities have grown alongside softening in commodity markets and elevated production expenses. Broad strength in farm finances has continued to support historically-strong loan performance, but farm profitability will remain important for agricultural credit conditions and lending demand in the coming months. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Brazil’s Higher Corn Exports Not a Trend Brazil is positioned to surpass the U.S. in corn exports this year. However, the National Corn Growers Association says the data shows the trend leading to this development won’t continue. The South American country faces several challenges when it comes to agriculture and trade. “U.S. exports have been hindered by droughts that have affected key areas of the Corn Belt,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “But the U.S. has several relative advantages in the global corn market that can be harnessed to support our $90 billion corn industry.” The U.S. is bolstered by superior infrastructure and sustainable farming practices. While there is additional pasture area available to expand Brazil’s cropland, efforts are also underway to rein in deforestation of valuable rainforest critical to global sustainability. NCGA is calling on Congress to double farm bill funding for important trade programs like the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. *********************************************************************************** U.N. says 122 Million More People Facing Hunger Since 2019 Over 122 million more people around the world are facing hunger since 2019 due to COVID-19 and repeated weather shocks and conflicts like the war in Ukraine. That’s according to the latest “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World” report published this week by the United Nations. Several agencies within the U.N. says if the trends remain as they are, the Sustainable Development Goal of ending hunger by 2030 won’t be reached. The latest report shows that between 691 and 783 million people faced hunger in 2022. While the numbers have stalled between 2021 and 2022, there are many places in the world facing increasing hunger. Hunger was still rising in western Asia, the Caribbean, and throughout all the subregions of Africa in 2022. Africa remains the hardest-hit region in the world with one in five people facing hunger on the continent, more than twice the global average. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments in Lowering Energy Costs for Rural America The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is making $21 million in technical assistance grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program. The funds will help agricultural producers and rural small businesses access federal funds for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements. “This will make sure rural Americans get access to the grants to make energy more affordable, create new economic opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Dr. Karama (kah-RA-mah) Neal. Grant recipients can include state, tribal, or local governments, colleges and universities, electric cooperatives and utility companies, and for-profit and non-profit organizations. “The technical assistance grants will provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar,” she says. “This will help small businesses and producers lower energy costs and strengthen their operations.” Interested applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development state Office for information. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Lower the Cost of Biofuel-Blending Compliance A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to lower the cost of complying with biofuel-blending mandates. Reuters says legislation was introduced that would direct the White House to let oil refiners purchase compliance credits (RINs) for biofuel blending laws at a lower cost than they’d pay on the open market. The group behind the bill says it would help struggling refineries stay afloat during a time of upheaval in the energy markets across the globe. Refiners have said for years that the costs of complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates is too high. However, biofuel proponents like ethanol producers and corn farmers say the RFS increases the marketplace for their products. A news release says under the proposal, refiners could buy those biofuel credits at a fixed price only if they aren’t able to purchase them at cost-effective levels on the open market. The bill’s introduction caused RIN prices to drop. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Third Quarter Earnings Agribusiness cooperative CHS Inc. released the results for its third quarter that ended on May 31. The company reported a quarterly net income of $547.5 million. That’s compared to a record third-quarter net income of $576.6 million in fiscal year 2022. For the first nine months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported a net income of $1.6 billion and revenues of $36.1 billion. During the same period in 2022, the company reported net income of $1.2 billion and revenues of $34.4 billion. Third-quarter highlights include the energy segment delivering strong earnings, reflecting sustained favorable market conditions in their refined fuels business. Another highlight is improved soybean and canola crush margins due to strong meal and oil demand resulting in higher earnings in the company’s oilseed processing business. “Entering the end of our fiscal year, opportunities remain for profitability and growth in the agriculture industry,” says CHS President Jay Debertin.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. Friday and this is also the last trading day for July grain futures. Traders continue to keep close track of changes in weather and watch for an occasional export sale announcement. Weather A thunderstorm complex currently extends across western Arkansas while another cluster of storms is moving out of the Texas Panhandle. Farther north, a line of storms is moving through southern Wisconsin into northern Illinois while another complex of storms extends across southern South Dakota and northern Nebraska. The storms across northern Nebraska may try to expand and become stronger across eastern Nebraska early Friday afternoon and eventually extend into eastern Kansas, southern Iowa, and northern Missouri late Friday afternoon into the evening. Strong to severe storms will be possible across southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma, with damaging wind gusts and large hail being the main threats.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |
U.S. consumers less willing to pay for beef, pork in June U.S. consumers have lowered their willingness-to-pay for six evaluated retail products, including ribeye steak, ground beef, pork chops and bacon, in June compared to May, according to the latest Meat Demand Monitor. WTP also decreased for all evaluated food service meals last month. Retail and food service demand in June 2023 was also lower than the year prior for all examined beef and pork offerings. The combined beef and pork projected market shares for June are 32% and 21%, respectively at the grocery store, and 39% and 13% at the restaurant. "I think base willingness-to-pay is declining, consistent with the general demand statement around June 2023 having lower domestic meat demand than June 2022," says Glynn Tonsor, professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University. "Per the extended chart above, this aligns with higher rates of no-protein, particularly among those indicating their finances have stagnated or declined from last year." Launched in February 2020, the MDM project is funded in-part by Beef Checkoff and Pork Checkoff and tracks U.S. consumer preferences, views and demand for meat with separate analysis for retail and food service channels. The monthly survey is conducted online with more than 2,000 respondents reflecting the national population. Taste, freshness, price and safety remain most important when purchasing protein, however freshness increased most since May, with environmental impact declining. Consumers are also eating lunch and dinner at home more often since last month's report. The survey noted 54% of respondents dined in for lunch and 69% for dinner in June, compared to May's 48% for lunch and 65% for dinner. In June, 14%, 21% and 33% had beef their prior day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while pork was included in 18%, 12% and 18% of these meals. The protein source for at-home meals was predominantly grocery stores. Meals consumed away-from-home vary in frequency, however quick service is the most popular for breakfast and lunch meals, casual dining for dinner. Consistent with a special report shared in late May on the role of financial sentiment in meat consumption and demand, in June a small minority (16%) indicated their household finances have improved over the past year. The survey noted 47% of respondents indicated their finances are the same while 36% said their finances are worse. Inclusion of beef and pork in prior day meals is much higher for those reporting improved household finances reaffirming the role of macroeconomic conditions in domestic beef and pork demand. Tonsor says the trend of those 16% reporting household finances that are better than last year including meat protein in prior day meals at higher rates is not unique to beef and pork. This holds true for chicken and fish/seafood as well. "Those indicating their household financed are the same (47%) or worse (36%) than last year report much higher cases of other (something besides beef, pork, chicken and fish/seafood) or no protein in prior day meals," Tonsor says.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |
USDA Releases July WASDE Report The Department of Agriculture Wednesday Issued the latest Monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand report. This month’s corn outlook is for fractionally higher supplies and ending stocks. Corn production is forecast up 55 million bushels as greater planted and harvested area from the June 30 Acreage report is partially offset by a four-bushel reduction in yield to 177.5 bushels per acre. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. Oilseed production is projected at 127.6 million tons, down 5.6 million from last month. Harvested area, forecast at 83.5 million acres in the June 30 Acreage report, is down four million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.40 per bushel, up $0.30 from last month. Changes this month to the wheat outlook increase supplies and domestic use, leave exports unchanged, and increase ending stocks. The projected season-average farm price is forecast at $7.50 per bushel, down $0.20 from last month. *********************************************************************************** Monthly Food Prices Unchanged in Consumer Price Index The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in June, after increasing 0.1 percent in May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for food at home was unchanged over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.4 percent in June. The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.8 percent in June, following a 1.3 percent increase in May. The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.1 percent over the month, while the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased 0.4 percent in June. The other food at home index decreased 0.2 percent in June after increasing 0.4 percent the previous month. The index for dairy and related products fell 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for nonalcoholic beverages declined 0.1 percent in June. The food at home index rose 4.7 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 7.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** AEM Releases June 2023 Equipment Sales Numbers Total farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. turned positive for the first time in 2023, led by continued strength in large tractors and combines. The Association of Equipment Manufactures reported Wednesday gains in the U.S. market were led by 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive units, up 25.4 percent, closely followed by four-wheel-drive units, up 21.9 percent. However, a change from the previous month is a small gain in the sub-40 horsepower two-wheel-drive segment, up 0.2 percent, that took overall sales positive since they represent more than 66 percent of total unit sales volume for the month. U.S. combines also marked another large gain of 9.8 percent. At the mid-year mark, year-to-date unit sales of farm tractors are down 9.7 percent despite a gain of 45.5 percent in the four-wheel-drive segment over that same period, and combines are up 51.5 percent. Total farm tractor unit sales year-to-date in Canada are down 14.4 percent, while combines are up 81.8 percent. *********************************************************************************** Farm, Forestry, Environmental and Hunger Advocates Unite Behind 2023 Farm Bill Twenty groups representing agricultural, environmental, forestry, wildlife, nutrition and hunger advocates have launched the “Farm Bill for America’s Families: Sustaining Our Future” campaign. The effort urges lawmakers to pass the 2023 farm bill this year. Farm Bill for America’s Families brings together stakeholders who support the farm bill and recognize its impact on all Americans. The campaign seeks to engage consumers, leaders and lawmakers alike on the importance of the farm bill and highlights five core objectives: food security, job creation, conservation, risk management and addressing hunger. The groups say the farm bill’s impact extends beyond the farm by protecting our nation’s food supply – providing millions of jobs, ensuring access to nutrition for families facing hunger; protecting farms from risks like weather disasters; advancing conservation efforts; and spurring innovation through agricultural research. Other organizations that share the campaign’s mission are invited to join at FarmBillforAmericasFamilies.com/join. *********************************************************************************** Baldwin, Blackburn Introduce Bill to Support American Dairy Businesses Lawmakers just introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation that will reauthorize and strengthen the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. Senators Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, and Marsha Blackburn, a Tennessee Republican, introduced the bill Wednesday. Baldwin created the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives through the Dairy Business Innovation Act in 2018, which passed as part of the 2018 Farm Bill. Baldwin says, "expanding this program will give more small- and medium-sized dairy businesses the tools and opportunity to reach new markets." The Initiatives provide resources to serve prospective and established businesses that produce a product made from milk from a dairy animal, including dairy farms with their own production facilities and dairy processors with cheese, ice cream, and bottling facilities. Since the program was established in 2019, Initiatives have supported over $150 million in awards through regional centers across the country. FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative, along with other members of the Midwest Dairy Coalition, endorsed the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Land Sales Slowing, Prices Remain High The agriculture real estate market entered a period of de-escalation beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. The market experienced a reduction in both sales volume and value growth since that time, as interest rates increased, and inflation pressures became more apparent, according to Farmers National Company. That trend has continued into the first half of 2023 with fewer properties being offered for sale and market values that are dramatically off the pace seen in the first half of 2022. Value growth is still positive across the Midwest, but increases are now in the single digits instead of the double digits seen in 2021 and 2022. Farm operators remain the largest group of buyers through Farmers National Company, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all land sale transactions. The sales volume at Farmers National Company through the first half of 2023 continues to exceed the five-year average but is slightly off the "exceptional" pace set in 2021 and 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a report on producer prices and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep close watch over the latest weather developments. Weather Remnants of a storm complex are exiting southern Missouri and southern Illinois Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon and through the evening, scattered showers and storms will develop across the Northern and Central Plains as well as the Ohio Valley. Some of the strongest storms are expected across western Nebraska, western Kansas, the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles, and southern Ohio. Damaging wind gusts and large hail will be the main threats with storms that develop Thursday, but an isolated tornado or two also cannot be ruled out.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |
Senate Confirms Torres Small as Deputy Agriculture Secretary The Senate Tuesday confirmed (SO’chill) Xochitl Torres Small as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, welcomed by agriculture groups and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. In a statement following the vote, Vilsack says, "I have witnessed her lead with energy, authenticity and personal investment that I know will leave an impact on USDA for years to come." Since October 2021, Torres Small has served as Under Secretary for Rural Development at USDA. Effective July 14, Rural Development Chief Operating Officer Roger Glendenning will serve as Acting Under Secretary. Before joining USDA, Torres Small was a United States Representative for the fifth largest district in the country. As a Member of Congress, she served as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, the House Armed Services Committee, and chairwoman of the Oversight, Management, and Accountability Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee. She was the first woman and first person of color to represent New Mexico's second congressional district. *********************************************************************************** USDA Spending Accountability Act Introduced A group of farm-state Senators Tuesday introduced the USDA Spending Accountability Act. The bill was introduced by Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Roger Marshall of Kansas and Mike Braun of Indiana. The legislation would limit the disbursal of funds through the USDA’s financing institution, known as the Commodity Credit Cooperation, to be permitted only when authorized by Congress. The Secretary of Agriculture has broad discretionary authority in spending excess CCC funds. This includes reimbursing farmers for losses due to trade disputes and funding climate grants, often to multinational corporations. Recent instances of discretionary spending abuse have prompted bipartisan concern, as these programs are enacted without input from Congress and allow USDA to act as authorizer and appropriator. By removing this discretionary authority, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the USDA Spending Accountability Act would save $8 billion over ten years. The substantial savings created by this bill would assist Congress in its goal to find savings in the Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** National 4-H Council Appoints New President And CEO The National 4-H Council Tuesday announced the departure of Jennifer Sirangelo, the current President and CEO. Sirangelo will depart on August 18, 2023, when she will transition leadership of the organization to an experienced National 4-H Council executive and 4-H alumna, Jill Bramble. After an 18-month, externally-led executive succession process, the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees unanimously supported the appointment of Bramble, current Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, as its new President and CEO. She has more than 18 years of successful leadership experience at the organization and a deep commitment to National 4-H Council's mission, values, and goals. Sirangelo has been an executive leader at National 4-H Council for 17 years, including nearly ten years as President and CEO. As the new President and CEO of National 4-H Council, Bramble brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission, as she is a fourth-generation 4-H alumna. *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Releases Increased After System Storage Check Above-average rainfall and fast-melting snow led to above-average runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin in June. Runoff above Sioux City, Iowa, was 6.7 million acre-feet, 122 percent of average. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa is 29.2-million-acre feet, 114 percent of average, and about 2.4 million acre-feet higher than last month's forecast. Precipitation was normal to much-above-normal for June in much of Montana, southern and east-central North Dakota, and western South Dakota. Below-normal precipitation occurred in eastern South Dakota and into the lower Basin. Based on the July 1 System storage, flow support for navigation increased from minimum service to 1,500 cfs below full-service level. Per the guidelines in the Master Manual, this will also result in a full navigation flow support season ending December 1 at the mouth of the Missouri River. Gavins Point releases were increased to 29,000 cubic feet per second in early July to account for the increase in navigation flow support. *********************************************************************************** FMC Decreases 2023 Outlook FMC Corporation Tuesday updated its expectations on the second quarter and full-year 2023 outlook. Revenue in the second quarter is now expected to be between $1.00 billion and $1.03 billion. The revised guidance is driven by substantially lower-than-expected volumes due to an abrupt and significant reduction in inventory by channel partners, which only became evident towards the end of May and continued through the remainder of the quarter. Based on current channel dynamics, the company is revising its full-year financial outlook, with revenue now expected to be $5.20 billion to $5.40 billion. FMC President and CEO Mark Douglas says, "Towards the end of May, we experienced unforeseen and unprecedented volume declines in three out of our four operating regions, as our channel partners rapidly reduced inventory levels." FMC is a global agricultural sciences company with approximately 6,600 employees at more than 100 sites worldwide. *********************************************************************************** Wholesale Egg Prices Tumble as Egg Supplies Recover Wholesale egg prices reached record highs in 2022 after avian flu resulted in significant reductions in egg-laying flocks, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Avian flu is a disease that spreads rapidly in birds and poultry and is often lethal. Cumulative losses attributable to the disease amounted to more than 43 million egg-laying hens. At the height of the disease, in the last weeks of December 2022, weekly egg inventories were 29 percent lower than at the beginning of the year, and prices reached a high of $5.37 per dozen. With no new outbreaks reported in 2023, the size of the egg-laying flock has gradually increased since late 2022. In turn, wholesale prices have fallen sharply, reaching $0.89 per dozen in the first week of May 2023. As of the week ending June 30, 2023, egg inventories were about 24 percent higher than the lowest 2022 values. During the same week, the average price was $1.23 per dozen, about 77 percent lower than the highest average weekly price in 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Department of Labor's consumer price index for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report and the Crop Production report from NASS are both out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. Weather Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop across southern and Eastern areas of the Corn Belt Wednesday, with some of the strongest storms expected across southern Iowa, eastern Kansas, western Indiana, and most of Illinois and Missouri. A thunderstorm complex may form across Missouri Wednesday evening and lead to a threat of strong to severe wind gusts up to 75 mph.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |
USMEF Releases May Export Data Led by another outstanding month in Mexico and robust demand for variety meat, exports of U.S. pork continued to gain momentum in May, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest, behind March 2023. May pork exports reached 261,361 metric tons, up 16 percent from a year ago, the ninth largest on record and the largest since May 2021. Export value climbed 12 percent to $731.1 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the seventh highest on record. Pork variety meat exports were particularly outstanding in May, setting a value record of $127 million. Beef exports totaled 116,159 metric tons, down 14 percent from the May 2022 record but up four percent from the previous month. Export value was $874.7 million, down 19 percent year-over-year but two percent above April. *********************************************************************************** Canned, Frozen Corn Industry Struggling For those whose primary experience with corn is the butter-drenched cob variety, it might come as a surprise that other forms of sweet corn are in trouble. A new University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign analysis shows sweet corn production for frozen and canned products has been steadily shrinking in the U.S. over the past 27 years, particularly in rainfed portions of the Midwest. Study author Marty Williams says, "We saw a decline in acreage throughout production areas in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, the regions where most processing sweet corn production is happening." Although the analysis was designed to illustrate long-term trends, not causes, the study found a strong relationship between extreme temperatures and sweet corn yield loss, implicating climate change. The dataset can't predict where the industry will go next, but Williams sees potential regional shifts in production areas, such as moving into locations with more irrigation infrastructure. *********************************************************************************** USDA Opens Financial Assistance for Borrowers Who Have Faced Discrimination The Department of Agriculture recently opened the financial assistance application process for eligible farmers who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to January 2021. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment of providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending." The program website, 22007apply.gov, is now open. The website includes an English- and Spanish-language application that applicants can download or submit via an e-filing portal, information on how to obtain technical assistance in-person or virtually, and additional resources and details about the program. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs prior to January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1, 2021, are eligible for this program. *********************************************************************************** Food-at-home Spending Varies by Race and Ethnicity U.S. households shifted away from buying foods at restaurants and other food service venues to food-at-home outlets such as grocery stores and other retail establishments in 2020. The largest shifts came from a category designated by USDA’s Economic Research Service as "all other FAH," which includes prepared meals and salads, desserts, and foods not elsewhere classified such as soups, savory snacks, candy, sweeteners, margarine, and butter. "All other FAH" was by far the largest category before 2020, and its share of the household food budget increased by 2.6 percentage points in 2020 compared with the period from 2016 to 2019. However, this increase was unevenly distributed across racial and ethnic populations and subcategories. All U.S. racial and ethnic subpopulations except Hispanic households increased their total food budget share for “all other FAH” during this period. Black households increased their budget shares for “all other FAH” the most, followed by Asian households. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Unveils Curriculum for Grades Kindergarten through 12th The United Sorghum Checkoff Program recently launched its first Farm-to-School Curriculum. The curriculum is an agricultural education initiative that aims to integrate the science and production of sorghum, in addition to its nutritional value, into classrooms across the United States. The curriculum provides educators with an array of engaging resources that introduce students to the importance of sorghum as a sustainable, versatile and flavorful grain that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The program also aims to ignite the passion for agriculture in the next generation, cultivating an understanding and appreciation for sorghum. The Sorghum Farm-to-School curriculum engages students of all grade levels, from Kindergarten to 12th grade, through experiential learning. Tailored modules for elementary, middle, and high school students offer rich, multisensory experiences. Students not only grow and taste sorghum, but they also explore various subjects by writing about and applying their knowledge of sorghum. Find tailored curriculum content and activities by exploring SorghumCheckoff.com/educators. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Demand Plummets After Holiday The nation's average price of gasoline has remained unchanged from a week ago, holding at $3.50 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price fell 1.3 cents in the last week and stands at $3.79 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “After declining going into July 4, average gasoline prices have struggled to find much momentum in either direction as the price of crude oil has continued to bounce around.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an 8.6 percent drop last week as the July 4 holiday closed and motorists returned from their holiday plans. However, De Haan says there is a risk of hurricane season and potential disruptions. Colorado State University recently released its third forecast for the 2023 hurricane season, showing a sharp uptick in the number of expected major hurricanes. Oil markets have seen a rally over the last week after Saudi Arabia extended its 1-million-barrel-per-day production cut to August, and Russia joined in by slowing oil exports.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Wednesday will be busier with the consumer price index for June and USDA's WASDE report for July set for release. As usual, traders will be watching the latest changes in weather as export sales have been a rare sight. Weather A cold front will continue to provide chances for scattered rain showers and thunderstorms across the Dakotas, Iowa, Nebraska, northern Missouri, and northern Illinois Tuesday into Tuesday night. Some of the strongest storms are likely across South Dakota, eastern Nebraska, and western Iowa. Damaging hail, wind gusts, and tornadoes are all threats with storms that develop across these states.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |
Ag Groups Motion Court to Vacate Biden WOTUS Rule Instead of Issuing Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups have asked a federal court to order the Biden administration to implement immediate changes to the waters of the U.S. rule following the Supreme Court's ruling in Sackett v EPA that essentially left the current rule unenforceable. Among the immediate changes sought in a motion filed by the groups in federal court in North Dakota is for the agencies to apply the Sackett ruling and formally declare ephemeral and isolated waters as no longer jurisdictional. A preliminary injunction against the WOTUS rule remains in place in 24 states, as ordered by the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. A federal judge in Texas also issued a preliminary injunction in Texas and Idaho. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled the agency's use of the "significant-nexus" test in making Clean Water Act determinations was unconstitutional. The test is one of two the Biden rule uses to make determinations. The Biden administration had asked the federal court in North Dakota for a stay in the case, telling the judge the agency plans to issue a rewrite by September. "Federal defendants assert that a stay will preserve resources because the 'new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case,'" the ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, said in a motion they are against a stay. "... Sackett already narrowed the issues in this case," the groups stated in their motion. "Indeed, all five of the categories of WOTUS as defined in the rule are invalid as a result of Sackett's rejection of the agencies significant-nexus test, definition of adjacency to mean having a continuous surface connection and not merely neighboring, adoption of the relatively permanent test from Rapanos, limitation of federal jurisdiction to interstate waters and further limitation of federal jurisdiction to navigable waters." The groups said they have no confidence that any new rule put forward by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will "fairly account" for the Sackett opinion. "As the Supreme Court highlighted, federal defendants have 'sought to minimize (prior WOTUS rulings') impact," the ag groups said. "And businesses have watched federal defendants evade prior WOTUS decisions in SWANCC and Rapanos. The EPA has provided no details to the court on how it will apply Sackett, has given the Corps no direction as to how to apply Sackett and instead has only stated that it plans to issue a new rule by Sept. 1, 2023." The groups argue that allowing the Biden rule to remain in effect until a new rule is promulgated would put farmers, ranchers and other landowners at "continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties" for "ordinary" use of their property. Injunctions against the Biden rule are in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. EPA and the Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test."
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |
Food Price Index Continues Downward Trend The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization’s World Food Price Index averaged 122.3 points in June, down 1.7 points from May, continuing a downward trend. The current level is 37 points or 23 percent below the peak in March 2022. The monthly decline reflected drops in sugar, vegetable oils, cereals, and dairy products, while the meat price index was virtually steady. The Sugar Price Index took the biggest drop, averaging 152 points in June, down 5.1 points from May, the first drop after four consecutive increases. The Cereal Price Index averaged 126.6 points in June, down almost three points from May and almost 40 percent below last year. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 115.8 points in June, three points lower than May and the lowest level since 2020. The Dairy Price Index was 116 points in June, down one point, and the Meat Index was unchanged at 117.9 points in June. *********************************************************************************** Still Mostly Dry in the Weekly Drought Monitor Heavy rains fell during the week in parts of the Midwest, Ohio River Valley, and the Northeast. That led to widespread improvements from southeast Nebraska to central Illinois and parts of Indiana and Kentucky. Further south and west, in southern Missouri, the Texas-Louisiana border, and other parts of central Texas, drier weather led to larger precipitation deficits and significant hay production problems in parts of Missouri. Many warmer-than-normal temperatures covered the South as it is blanketed by the continuing heat wave, especially in eastern Texas and Louisiana. Dry weather in parts of the Upper Midwest led to worsening conditions in parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Conditions in parts of the western Great Plains led to some improvements in long-term dryness and long-term moderate drought in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle region and in western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. A mix of worsening and improving conditions occurred in the Pacific Northwest. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Coalition Comments on BLM Proposal The Public Lands Council submitted grazing coalition comments raising concerns with the Bureau of Land Management’s proposed “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule. The PLC’s comments had signatures from 55 state and national organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American Sheep Industry Association, and the American Farm Bureau. PLC President Mark Roeber says public lands ranchers lead conservation out West. “Our cattle and sheep are the tools we use to feed this country and protect these landscapes,” he says. “We are committed to protecting these lands and the legacies we’ve built on them, especially when it means working to oppose government efforts that will cause more harm than good.” He also says if BLM is serious about lasting conservation, they should have talked to ranchers first and not forged ahead blindly with a controversial rule that will cause billions of dollars in harm to our western states and the American economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Risk Management Options The USDA is expanding insurance coverage options for specialty crops and other actual production history crop programs. Through the Risk Management Agency, it will expand the availability of enterprise units to crops where they were previously not available, giving agriculture producers greater options to manage risk. An enterprise unit allows a producer to insure all acres of the insured crop in the county together, as opposed to other unit structures that separate the acreage for insurance. Enterprise units are beneficial because of the lower premium rates offered to recognize the lower risk associated with geographic diversification. In general, the larger the enterprise unit, the lesser the risk and the greater the enterprise discount. “This expansion gives producers more choices on how they can protect themselves,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. Several crops will have enterprise units available next year, including alfalfa seed, cultivated wild rice, forage production, onions, and others. *********************************************************************************** “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” Live Cook Along Cookbook author and social media influencer Shereen Pavlides (Sheh-REEN Pav-LEE-days) will host a live cook-along from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Culinary Center. The event is on Tuesday, July 11, at 4 pm Mountain time. Pavlides will showcase beef on her popular “Cooking with Shereen” Instagram page. Her social media work has earned her more than six million followers across her Instagram, Tik Tok, and Facebook pages. Her followers will be invited to visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com prior to the cook-along, where they’ll see a grocery list and the event details. During the event, she’ll teach her audience how to make one of her favorite recipes – Jamaican Jerk Steak with Coconut Rice. The NCBA is excited to partner with a well-known influencer. “Partnering with an influencer like Shereen allows us to tap into a new audience and introduce the brand to thousands of consumers,” says Clark Price, Federation Division Chair for NCBA. *********************************************************************************** River Level “Whiplash” Continues The Upper Mississippi River experienced high water conditions due to significant snowfall in the Upper Midwest in late winter and early spring. Even after the high-water conditions that resulted from the snow melt, Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook) of the Soy Transportation Coalition says he was worried about quickly returning to low water levels on the river system. “I was worried that any prolonged stretch of dry weather could result in swinging right back to low water conditions,” Steenhoek says. “That has unfortunately occurred.” He also says it serves as a reminder that drought not only inhibits the ability to grow a crop, but it also inhibits our ability to transport that crop. Recent low river gauge readings in St. Louis and Memphis show how barge transportation could be challenging when our export season picks up in late summer and early fall. Low levels may again force companies to reduce tow sizes and freight amounts.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - July WASDE and Weather Patterns OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. WASDE Wednesday: Markets get an early week shot of news, with Tuesday's WASDE (World Supply and Demand Estimates) report from USDA. A preview of report expectations will be available on all our digital platforms Monday. On Tuesday, we'll have initial numbers in our Flash story just after 11:00 a.m. Central, followed by updates and analysis through the following half hour. As always, DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will have an online discussion of the report at 12:30. 2. Acreage Flip-Flop: In addition to the WASDE report, we'll be watching continued market reaction to recent flip-flops between corn and soybeans news. Last month USDA set planting estimates at 94.1 million acres of corn. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman notes that even with drought-stricken conditions, 94 million acres can produce a lot of corn, and that could begin to weigh on prices, frustratingly so to those in the dry. Soybeans did on 180 on that, with USDA's June 30 report pegging acres in at 83.5 million: That's not enough, even with bushel-per-acre averages in the mid-50s, to meet all the demand folks have been talking about for a year. 3. Did we Mention the Weather? The week of July 9 temperatures will be near to below normal across the Corn Belt, near to above normal elsewhere. The southern U.S. should continue to see showers from an active front. A low in Canada sends a couple of cold fronts into the Corn Belt, which also ups the shower potential there. But these will unlikely be enough to fix any shortages of subsoil moisture. DTN subscribers can get more details from our Ag Weather Brief, prepared daily by DTN ag meteorologists. 4. Hear our Experts: To catch the latest on the markets and weather crossroads, see our new weekly video "In the News." DTN Farm Business Editor Katie Dehlinger hosts this chat with analyst Todd Hultman and DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. 5. Weekly Economic Reports: In addition to WASDE, we'll continue to track ag and non-ag economic signals throughout the week. Monday we'll see export inspections numbers at 10 a.m. CDT, with reaction to USDA Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Wednesday will see the release of the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for June at 7:30 a.m.; the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports at 11 a.m. On Thursday morning we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report, the U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. We finish the week with USDA's export sales report and the U.S. unemployment report are set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather events and forecasts affecting crops. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN's preview of Wednesday's USDA reports will also be out early Monday. Weather A disturbance will bring scattered, strong to severe storms to the central and Southern Plains and portions of the Upper Midwest Monday afternoon into Monday evening. Most areas will see less than a half inch of rain from these storms, but isolated higher amounts up to one inch are possible.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |
Purdue Study Reports 40% More Injuries in Grain Storage Facilities Last year saw a 40 percent increase in the number of injuries and fatalities in confined spaces across agriculture. Purdue University released its 2022 summary of accidents involving agricultural confined space-related injuries and deaths. The summary reported 83 cases, 24 of which were fatal and 59 nonfatal cases involving agricultural confined spaces. That’s almost a 41 percent increase over the 59 cases in 2021. These numbers are approximate, as the study authors realize not every case gets reported. Additionally, the 42 grain-related entrapments represented a 45 percent increase over 2021. Of the 41 non-grain-related cases, incidents included livestock waste handling facilities, entanglements inside confined spaces, falls from confined space structures, and grain dust explosions or fires. Edward Sheldon of Purdue’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program says confined-space incidents continue to result in a significant number of injuries and fatalities. “Use best-management practices to keep yourself and employees safe,” Sheldon says. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Don’t Pick Winners and Losers The National Corn Growers Association submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding its proposed emissions standards. The corn growers are calling on the agency to open pathways for all low-carbon fuels and technologies as it finalizes its multi-pollutant emissions standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles for model years 2027-2032. “For automakers to use new technologies and enhanced engines to meet stringent standards, they need updated fuel that enables new vehicles and fuels to work as a system to enhance greenhouse gas and other tailpipe emissions reductions,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). NCGA says the proposal picks winners and losers and places ethanol on the losing side. “Clean octane from today’s ethanol is 50 percent lower in GHG emissions than gasoline and replaces the most harmful hydrocarbon aromatics to improve air quality and prevents adverse health impacts,” Haag says. “EPA failed to broaden the solutions that reduce transportation emissions.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Meal Opportunities in Animal Nutrition Collaboration between animal nutritionists and the soy checkoff could bring additional value opportunities for U.S. soybeans, ultimately benefiting both animal agriculture and American farmers. The impact spans the poultry, pig, dairy, and aquaculture sectors. The checkoff brings together industry leaders as a part of its Animal Nutrition Working Group. The group advises checkoff leaders on research investments with the highest value for farmers and the industry. USB’s new strategic plan consists of three priorities for soybean meal, including the overall nutritional composition, improved measurement of anti-nutritional factors, and the resulting benefit to animal production, performance, and health. Soybean meal continues to be the standard for all other protein feedstuffs. This team of nutritionists examines how soybean meal can get used properly beyond just its protein content. One big goal of the collaboration is to encourage a shift toward total value-based ingredient decisions on the production and processing sides of the supply chain. *********************************************************************************** EU Agency Sees No Reasons to Block Glyphosate The European Food Safety Agency says it hasn’t identified areas of concern that would stop the reapproval of glyphosate for use in the EU. Market Screener says EU approval of the widely-used chemical is set to expire at the end of 2023. The agency’s conclusion is a key part of the process of deciding whether renewal will happen. The World Health Organization decided in 2015 that glyphosate was “probably” carcinogenic to humans. Bayer points out that decades worth of health studies show that glyphosate is safe for humans to use. The European Commission will determine whether to propose glyphosate for renewal based in part on the EFSA conclusion. Bayer says it welcomes the agency’s finding and feels it laid the groundwork for successfully renewing glyphosate in the European Union. The food safety agency says even with missing residual trials, its experts concluded there would not be a major concern for consumers. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill Doubtful to Override California’s Prop 12 Farmers and ranchers are slightly more optimistic that Congress will get a new farm bill passed this year. However, Successful Farming says they don’t think the farm bill will get used to overturn California’s Prop 12 animal welfare law. The pork industry is looking for a legislative way to override the requirement after losing a Supreme Court challenge. About 36 percent of the farmers surveyed in the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer say it’s not likely that Congress will overturn Prop 12 in the new farm bill, while 40 percent say they are uncertain about the prospects of a legislative fix. One-fourth of the farmers in the most recent Purdue Survey say it’s at least somewhat likely that Congress will take on Proposition 12 in new farm bill legislation. In contrast, only 37 percent of farmers say it’s still likely a farm bill will get put into law this year. *********************************************************************************** Organic Association Elects New President The Organic Trade Association announced its new leadership team consisting of the board of directors and the president. Tracy Favre (FARV) is the new president and is excited to jump into her new role. She’s worked in natural resource management and the organic sector for over 30 years. Favre served on the National Organic Standards Board from 2012-2017, ending her tenure as the board president. “I’m honored to be serving as the new OTA Board president,” she says. “The organic industry is at an important point in its growth.” Tom Chapman, CEO of the OTA, says they’re excited to welcome the new president and board. “We look forward to working with these dedicated volunteer leaders to keep moving organic forward,” he says. “The new board is committed to working together with members and staff to achieve OTA’s mission of growing and protecting organic.” The 15 board members serve three-year terms.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the U.S. Labor Department provides nonfarm payrolls and the monthly unemployment report for June, and Canada provides its unemployment report -- possible clues for future interest rates. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather A disturbance in the Plains will continue to bring areas of showers and thunderstorms eastward into the western half of the Midwest on Friday. Some of these thunderstorms could be strong to severe, but most likely in the Southern Plains. Milder temperatures are filling in across the Corn Belt and will continue to trend that way through next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Rebounds on Future Optimism Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer Index rose 17 points in June to a reading of 121. The upswing in farmer sentiment was driven by producers’ more optimistic view of the future. However, their perception of current conditions remained unchanged from May. The Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while the Index of Current Conditions held flat at 116 in June. Optimism about U.S. agriculture’s future and a more optimistic outlook on interest rates helped explain producers’ more positive view of the future in the June survey. But current conditions continue to present challenges for some producers. This month, four out of ten producers stated that their financial situation has deteriorated compared to a year ago. The Farm Financial Performance Index also rose this month, up ten points from May. The Farm Capital Investment Index rose five points in June to 42, while optimism on farmland values also rose. *********************************************************************************** Three Years of USMCA July 1 was the third anniversary of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement going into effect, and the U.S. pork industry is happy to celebrate the occasion. Pork exports to America’s neighbors, especially Mexico, have soared under the successor to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Since USMCA took effect, U.S. pork exports to Mexico have increased from almost $1.2 billion in 2020 to more than $2 billion last year. Exports to Canada have grown from about $853 million in 2020 to $867 million in 2022. For the first four months of this year, both countries are on pace to take in record amounts of American pork during 2023. Exports to Mexico and Canada totaled nearly $3 billion, accounted for 38 percent of all U.S. pork exports in 2022, and supported more than 16,000 jobs. The USMCA maintained the zero-tariff rate on pork traded in North America which was first established under NAFTA. *********************************************************************************** Groups Want Fairness in Tailpipe Emissions Standards America’s farmers, fuel marketers, retailers, and renewable fuel producers called on the Environmental Protection Agency to change its proposed standards for tailpipe emissions. The groups want the agency to adopt a market-oriented, technology-neutral approach to transportation decarbonization in its final tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032 light- and medium-duty vehicles. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the groups say the proposed rule favors electric vehicles while failing to consider the decarbonization potential of existing biofuels that can improve the emissions profile of a majority of cars on the road today. “EPA should use the best available science to accurately account for the full lifecycle carbon intensity associated with particular fuels and technologies,” the groups say. They also feel the proposed rule “artificially tilts the scale” toward electric vehicles without considering other options. The National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and Growth Energy were among the groups signing the letter. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Celebrates 15 Years Sorghum industry leaders marked a milestone on July 1, the 15th anniversary of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. Since its founding, the Sorghum Checkoff has dedicated its efforts to advancing sorghum profitability through innovative research, promotion, and education. “We’ve made significant strides in the past 15 years, and we’re deeply committed to continuing to advance the crop for U.S. sorghum producers and end-users around the world,” says Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “Our board has invested more than $46 million into research aimed at optimizing sorghum as a robust, profitable crop for several value-added end-use markets.” The Checkoff has invested in cutting-edge research to advance production techniques. Key agronomic milestones include introducing the first-ever over-the-top weed and grass control in sorghum. The Sorghum Checkoff also plays a key role in expanding international markets, including countries like China, and it’s boosted public awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of sorghum. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for AFTs Brighter Future Fund American Farmland Trust has opened applications for 2023’s Brighter Future Fund Program. It helps farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer, or permanently protect farmland or adopt regenerative agricultural practices. The last day to submit applications is July 15. The Brighter Future Fund provides grants of up to $10,000 per project. A project may involve one or more individual farmers or farm families, and projects will be awarded on a one-per-farm basis. “Farmers and ranchers work hard to provide for their communities, their families, and their land, but they sometimes need help,” says an AFT news release. “The Brighter Future Fund can provide that help.” The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers launch, grow, and sustain farms despite forces impacting the food and agricultural system, including COVID-19, changing markets, and severe weather. Applications will be reviewed and awarded in the order they are received. Go to farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Retailers Support Reliable Rail Service Act The Agricultural Retailers Association applauded Senator Tammy Baldwin’s Reliable Rail Service Act. “ARA appreciates Senators Baldwin (D-WI) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) for leading legislative efforts to address the continuous rail service problems faced by our industry,” says ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “Those challenges have caused supply chain disruptions and negatively impacted other shippers within the agricultural industry.” The retailers want Congress to tackle head-on the significant cost increases and service disruptions that harm the businesses of its ag retailer members and their farmer customers who rely on freight rail transportation to deliver the critical crop input products to feed and fuel the nation. Common carrier obligations still lack a clear definition. “This proposal will provide some needed clarity to the common carrier obligation, improve the Surface Transportation Board’s oversight authority and help ensure railroads provide a reliable service at reasonable rates for shippers, which ultimately benefits consumers,” says Coppock.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday, due to this week's holiday schedule. Weather A cold front has stalled in the Southern Plains where some heavier showers are located Thursday morning. The eastern section of the front will continue to relieve heat across the eastern Midwest and will produce some showers as well. An old front will also be active across the Southeast, but it will be back in the Plains that will garner most of the attention Thursday. The front will be a focal point for severe storms but so will a disturbance moving toward the Rockies this evening across the central High Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |
NCGA Call to Action on EPA’s Emissions Standards Proposal The National Corn Growers Association is urging farmers to submit comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding a new proposal on multi-pollutant emissions standards. The call-to-action was launched after the agency first announced the proposal in April. The comment period deadline closes on July 5. The new standards would effectively force automakers to produce electric vehicles at an increasingly rapid rate to comply with the stringent proposed rule. NCGA leadership believes with this one-size-fits-all approach, EPA is ignoring other low-carbon solutions like ethanol. The proposal picks winners and losers in the energy sector and puts biofuels on the losing side. If it’s left unchanged, this rulemaking has the potential to remove hundreds of millions of bushels of domestic corn demand from the market each year. The NCGA is encouraging all members and advocates to let the EPA know that ethanol is a low-carbon solution to emissions reduction that is readily available. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Planted More Sorghum in 2023 Growers planted 6.81 million acres of sorghum for all purposes this year, up eight percent from last year. Kansas and Texas, the top sorghum-producing states, account for 77 percent of the country’s acreage. Growers expect to harvest 5.94 million acres for grain, up 30 percent from last year. Approximately 73 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was planted by June 18, five percentage points behind the previous year and nine percentage points behind the five-year average. By, June 18, 15 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, equal to last year but one percentage point behind the five-year average. Sixty percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on June 18, three percentage points above the previous week and 14 percentage points above the previous year. In the meantime, the National Sorghum Producers are now accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Context. *********************************************************************************** USDA: SNAP Payment Error Rates Rise The combined payment error rate for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments went from 7.3 percent in fiscal year 2019 to 11.5 percent in fiscal year 2022. During those years, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service says states were providing pandemic-related benefits while coping with staff shortages. The individual state error rates varied dramatically. The report says Alaska was the highest state at almost 57 percent, while many other states were far below the national average. ‘”As part of the flexibilities granted to states beginning in the spring of 2020, Congress removed the requirement for states to conduct quality control reviews, which resulted in USDA being unable to publish the annual national and state payment error rates for fiscal years 2020 and 2021,” FNS said in a release. Stacy Dean, USDA Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, says, “The circumstances put an incredible strain on program administration. The rates reflect those challenges.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Crop Insurance Coverage for Camelina The Risk Management Agency announced it will expand insurance for camelina (Kam-eh-LEE-nah) in the Southern Plains and the Pacific Northwest. The move is intended to provide additional grower certainty as demand for the renewable fuel feedstock crop rises across the U.S. The newly adopted program by the RMA now allows written agreements in select counties in many states, including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and several others. Global Clean Energy Holdings and its subsidiary, Sustainable Oils, Inc., the world’s largest camelina producer, collaborated with the USDA to make this expansion happen. “We like to say that camelina protects like a cover crop and pays like a cash crop, benefits that are increasingly important to strengthening our soil health and rural agricultural communities,” says Mike Karst, President of Sustainable Oils. Camelina is a nonfood crop used as an ultra-low carbon feedstock for renewable fuel. For information, go to the USDA Risk Management website. *********************************************************************************** New ASF Variant Found in China Chinese scientists say they’ve identified what appears to be a new strain of the African Swine Fever virus working its way through three counties in the country. A paper published in the journal Nature Communications says the new virus appears to be a hybrid of the new genotype 2 strain that caused the 2018 outbreak of ASF that began in China and a more recent but less deadly strain identified in 2021. Chris Netherton, head of ASF Vaccinology at the Pirbright Institute, says that the new variant is called genotype 1 for its apparent similarities to older versions of the virus. It causes chronic disease in pigs, but it’s not as deadly as genotype 2, which can kill over 80 percent of the hogs it infects. Feed Strategy Magazine says the data from the Chinese study doesn’t appear to show the new strain is more contagious than the existing variants of ASF. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for the Research Ambassador Program The National Corn Growers Association is looking for qualified graduate students to apply for the Research Ambassador Program. If you’re interested in building a personal network of future agricultural leaders as you begin your career, apply today. To ensure all interested applicants have a chance at this opportunity, NCGA has extended the deadline for applications to its Research Ambassador Program to July 15. Graduate students who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States and are involved in research broadly related to corn production are eligible to apply. Selected students get a $2,500 award, up to $750 to offset travel and registration costs for scientific conferences, and fully-funded travel to participate in NCGA events throughout the year. Ambassadors must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and be actively involved in research relevant to producing corn. The program’s goal is to build a network of future leaders in the agriculture sector.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Back from the 4th of July, U.S. grain and livestock futures open at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by a report on U.S. factory orders for May at 9 a.m. and minutes from the latest Fed meeting at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts. Weather An old front continues to be active across southern portions of the country on Wednesday. But it's one that is moving through the Corn Belt garnering most of the attention as it produces areas of showers and thunderstorms over some of the driest parts of the country. Not all areas will be hit as the front moves through, but chances are good across the Central Plains into the southern Midwest for another round of good rain but also some severe storms.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |
USDA Releases June Planted Acreage Estimates The USDA released its June Planted Acreage Estimates Report, and it shows corn planted area in 2023 is estimated at 94.1 million acres, up six percent or 5.52 million acres higher than last year. It’s the highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944. Soybean planted area for 2023 is estimated to be 83.5 million acres, down five percent from last year. The all-wheat planted area for 2023 is estimated at 49.6 million acres, up nine percent from 2022. At 37 million acres, the 2023 winter wheat planted area is up 11 percent from last year but down one percent from the previous estimate. Of that total, about 25.7 million acres are Hard Red Winter Wheat, 7.66 million acres are Soft Red Winter Wheat, and 3.68 million acres are White Winter Wheat. The all-cotton planted area for 2023 is estimated at 11.1 million acres, down 19 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grain Stocks Report Shows Lower Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA released its June Grain Stocks Report, and corn, soybean, and wheat stocks are all down compared to June 2022. Corn is down six percent from last year, soybean stocks are down 18 percent, and all-wheat stocks are 17 percent lower than last June. Corn stocks in all positions on June 1 totaled 4.11 billion bushels. Of that total, 2.22 billion bushels are stored on farms, five percent higher than last year, while off-farm stocks were 1.89 billion, 15 percent lower. Soybeans in all positions were 796 million bushels. On-farm stocks at 323 million bushels were three percent lower. Off-farm stocks were down 26 percent from last year at 473 million bushels. Old crop all-wheat stored in all positions was 580 million bushels, down 17 percent from June 2022. On-farm stocks were 124 million bushels, up 34 percent, and off-farm stocks of 456 million bushels were 25 percent lower. *********************************************************************************** Derecho Hits Farm Country A derecho (deh-RAY-cho) storm system hit parts of the Midwest last week. Hundreds of thousands had no power, homes and cars were smashed, and fields of crops were flattened by the high winds. The line of severe thunderstorms contained wind gusts of 90 miles per hour. The storm moved quickly, starting in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas before pushing further east into Illinois and Indiana. “It was a classic line of severe thunderstorms that met all of the criteria for a typical derecho,” says Jonathan Erdman, a senior meteorologist with weather.com. “These types of storms typically form in late spring or early summer and are long-lived, widespread, and damaging wind events.” A derecho typically forms along the edge of an excessively hot and humid airmass like the heat dome that’s been parked over the Southern Plains and lower Mississippi Valley. “They often ride the northern edge of heat domes,” Erdman says. *********************************************************************************** Farmers’ Share of July Fourth Food Dollar Continues to Shrink The National Farmers Union released the 2023 numbers for the Farmers’ Share of the Food Dollar Report covering several items typically found at a Fourth of July cookout. The NFU says every year, the troubling trend of farmers earning less of the dollars Americans spend at the grocery store is continuing. “Whether it’s the highly consolidated meatpacking industry or harmful mergers in the private sector, farmers and consumers are being squeezed out of their hard-earned money,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “It doesn’t have to be that way.” For example, eight-count hamburger buns retail for $3.49, but the farmers’ share is only ten cents. Party-size potato chips are $5.99, but the farmers’ share is 29 cents. Two pounds of ground beef is $11.07, but farmers get just $3.42. Last year, the USDA said the farmers’ share of the food dollar bottomed out at only 14.5 cents of every dollar spent. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory is Slightly Higher As of June first, U.S. farms contained 72.4 million hogs and pigs, which was up slightly from June 2022 and down one percent from March 1, 2023. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published last week by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of the 72.4 million hogs and pigs, NASS says 66.2 million were market hogs, while 6.15 million were kept for breeding purposes. Between March and May 2023, 32.9 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, one percent higher than last year. During the same period, America’s hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.36 pigs per litter. Producers intend to have 2.94 million sows farrow between June and August of this year and 2.95 million sows farrow between September and November. Iowa hog producers had the largest inventory among the states at 23.8 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory of 8.7 million head. *********************************************************************************** ERS Finds Increasing Concentration in Ag and Food Sectors The USDA’s Economic Research Service looked into market concentration and its impact on competition. It’s a subject that’s attracted growing public scrutiny. The ERS study says market concentration, which is measured by the share of industry sales held by the largest firms, has increased sharply over the last four decades in many seed, livestock, and food retail markets. From 2018-2020, two seed companies accounted for 72 percent of planted corn acres and 66 percent of planted soybean acres in the U.S. In 2019, the four largest meatpackers accounted for 85 percent of steer and heifer slaughter and 67 percent of hog slaughter. In most metropolitan areas, five to six store chains account for most supermarket sales. Economic theory and empirical analysis demonstrate that high concentration can facilitate the exercise of market power, with firms driving sales prices above or livestock prices below the prices that would prevail in competitive markets.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - High Winds and Market Holidays OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 2. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather Damage Updates: We'll continue to watch and update how these strong weather systems bring good and not-so-good news to various parts of the country. Rain will be easing drought conditions, and looks to be particularly good for the southern half of the U.S. Hopefully that won't include more damaging winds and hail. 2. Happy Independence Day: Markets will be closed July 4, with electronic markets reopening at 8:30 CDT Wednesday. We'll have grain and livestock market updates first thing Wednesday morning. Have a safe day celebrating and don't eat too many hotdogs. 3. Field Day Season: If you're traveling rural roads you can't help but see the sudden flush of bright field signs, a clue that field day season is upon us. The DTN/Progressive Farmer crew will be out and about, reporting on new products and things to come, as well as connecting with you. If you spot us at a field day in your area, say hello! 4. Hay and Forage Conditions: We're continuing to watch hay markets and forage conditions, particularly in the drier areas of the country. Farmers are in general reporting smaller grass hay crops, and prices remain strong. 5. Key Reports through the Week: Markets will key up on a number of economic reports coming out in the shortened week. Monday will see world manufacturing indices, including one from the U.S., at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report hits at 3 p.m. A new Fats and Oils report is due out at 2 p.m. Wednesday markets reopen, and we'll get the May U.S. factory orders report as well as the minutes from the latest FOMC (Fed) meeting. Thursday sees the weekly U.S. jobless claims report, the U.S. trade deficit for May and the highly anticipated U.S. Drought Monitor update. All those hit at 7:30 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage comes in at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Friday we'll be watching the USDA export sales and the latest U.S. unemployment report, both set for 7:30 a.m. CDT.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Manufacturing indices from around the world will be out early Monday, along with one for the U.S. at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m., followed by the Fats and Oils report from NASS at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. U.S. grain futures close at their normal times Monday and open next at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Weather A front from the weekend over the South and another moving down from Canada into the Northern Plains will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms Monday. Some severe weather will be possible in both areas. Some leftover heat remains across the Southeast and temperatures will be quite warm from Texas up into Minnesota as well, but fall dramatically behind the second front in the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |
NCBA Files Motion to Strike Down WOTUS The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed a motion in the U.S. District Court of Southern Texas asking it to strike down the Biden administration’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. The motion comes in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. “A full rewrite of the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “NCBA is seeking summary judgment in our lawsuit against the Biden WOTUS rule and urging the Southern District of Texas to strike the rule from the books.” Separate from the Sackett case, NCBA led a coalition in filing suit against the Biden rule to keep it from taking effect. NCBA helped secure injunctions in 27 states to temporarily halt the rule. “NCBA has been fighting the overreaching WOTUS rules for years, and this is the latest example of our fight,” says Hart. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments Promote Competition and Strengthen the Supply Chain The USDA is making investments to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, expand market opportunities for farmers, and support a growing workforce in rural areas. “While American farmers and ranchers have been responding to the demand to produce more, their communities have struggled to see their share of benefits,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to championing meat and poultry processors, increasing competition, and lowering the costs for working families.” USDA is providing 15 awards totaling $115 million in 17 states. The agency is also providing another five awards totaling $38 million through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. USDA will also provide ten awards totaling $77 million under the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program. The announcement supports projects from Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Montana, and several other states. The investments will build a pipeline of well-trained meat processing workers and support safe workspaces with fair wages. *********************************************************************************** Colombia Lifts Ban on U.S. Poultry Exports Quick action resolved an issue that temporarily stopped American poultry product exports to Colombia, the tenth-largest market for those products. Colombia’s Ag Ministry instructed all Colombian ports to deny import permits to any poultry products beginning June 1 due to concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Approximately $1.1 million worth of U.S. exports were impacted between June 3 and June 8. The Foreign Ag Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and the U.S. Trade Representative worked together to leverage the free trade agreement to pressure Colombian officials to lift the ban. The cooperative effort brought a reversal to fruition on June 8. The previous denial of import licenses, stuck shipments of U.S. poultry, and the uncertainty of market access directly impacted consumers and American businesses. Tyson Foods, PriceSmart, and McDonald’s were some of the main companies hit by the ban. The market accounted for over $100 million in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Drought Tightens Grip on Midwest, Eastern Great Plains The Midwest and east-central Great Plains saw conditions worsen with widespread crop stress and lower stream flows in this week’s Drought Monitor. Heavy rains in parts of Ohio and Kentucky led to some improvements in the short-term drought. However, much of the Midwest saw conditions stay the same or get worse, especially in central Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, southwest Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and southeast Iowa. Almost completely-dry weather in Missouri and southern Illinois created potential problems for corn and soybean production. In southeast Iowa, producers reported rolling corn leaves and stunted soybeans. The weather was varied in the High Plains. Much of the northern parts, except for eastern Nebraska and eastern Kansas, saw widespread precipitation, some of it heavy. Conditions got drier in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas. Much warmer than normal temperatures covered the western half of the South. Most of the West was near to below-normal in temps during the week. *********************************************************************************** Former NCGA President to Lead MAIZALL John Linder, a former president of the National Corn Growers Association, was elected to serve as the president of MAIZALL (Mayz-all). The Ohio corn grower will lead the international farm organization that focuses on eliminating regulatory obstacles to innovation in agriculture. The group contains members from the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. His one-year term starts on July 3, and NCGA’s current leadership expressed enthusiasm over the news. “John is a dedicated leader, and he will no doubt do an outstanding job leading MAIZALL,” says current NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). MAIZALL engages private sector stakeholders, national government officials, and leaders from international organizations like the World Trade Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The goal is to work towards alignment on regulatory barriers to trade. “Trade is vital to American farmers,” Linder says. “As MAIZALL president, I will encourage foreign governments and international organizations to embrace science-based regulatory decision-making.” *********************************************************************************** NMPF Issues Letter on Lab-Produced “Milk” The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration regarding lab-produced fake “milk.” A company called Bored Cow calls its product milk, which the U.S. dairy industry says is completely false. “They take water and add what we believe to be one unidentified, lab-engineered ‘whey protein’ along with a highly processed concoction of food additives, preservatives, oil, sugar, and several added vitamins, and claims it is ‘animal-free dairy milk,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “It’s baseless, absurd, and preposterous to call the resulting product ‘milk.’” The federation has repeatedly called on FDA to enforce its identity standards for milk as plant-based fakes have proliferated. It’s now warning the agency that lab-based milk imposters will be next without agency action. Lab-based milk imitators are following the plant-based playbook and plastering “milk” and other standardized dairy terms on products that have nothing in common with true dairy.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, along with the PCE index for May, the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m., followed by USDA's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports at 11 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues over the South-Central U.S. on Friday, and areas of thunderstorms will pass along the northern rim from Kansas and Nebraska through the Ohio Valley again throughout the day. While another derecho, like one that occurred on Thursday, is not anticipated early this morning, some areas of severe weather are likely to occur.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |
Ag Groups Motion Texas Court to Vacate Biden Waters of US Rule as EPA Starts Rewrite LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups asked a federal court in Texas to strike down the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS) even as the EPA announced this week it would rewrite and issue a new proposed rule by Sept. 1. Ag groups led by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation and others filed a motion for summary judgement in the U.S. District Court for the District of Southern Texas in Galveston on Wednesday, telling the court the recent ruling by the Supreme Court in Sackett v EPA establishes the Biden rule as "unlawful." The Texas court previously issued a preliminary injunction against the rule for the states of Texas and Idaho. The ag groups asked the court to require the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to apply the Supreme Court's decision as the "operative framework" for making jurisdictional determinations and approving permit applications, until the administration promulgates a new rule. The Supreme Court declared unlawful the agencies' use of the significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The EPA motioned for a stay in a lawsuit filed in a federal court in North Dakota this week, telling the court the agency will be issuing a new proposed rule by or before Sept. 1. "Business plaintiffs' members and their clients who operate in every state remain subject to that rule in the 23 states in which it is not enjoined," the ag groups said in their Texas motion. "Worse, although Sackett determines the agencies' jurisdiction in the vast majority of circumstances, the Corps has announced that it will not issue AJDs (jurisdictional determinations) anywhere until the agencies promulgate a new rule, putting business plaintiffs' members and their clients at continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties for ordinary use of their property. Only vacatur of the rule, agency adherence to Sackett to process AJDs and permits and prompt promulgation of a new rule can end this arbitrary roadblock to the lawful use of the land." NCBA's Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart said in a press release, "A full rewrite of the Biden administration's WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision." In its motion for summary judgement the ag groups said the court should "immediately supply clear directions to Corps offices and other stakeholders that ephemeral and isolated waters are no longer jurisdictional" and that jurisdictional determinations should reflect that. "Delay in providing clear direction perpetuates the conduct for which the agencies were admonished in Sackett," ag groups said. "There is no warrant for the agencies, after nearly two decades during which they unlawfully expanded their authority by imposing a significant nexus test on land users, to continue to hold the threat of criminal and civil sanctions over businesses for ordinary land uses now that the Supreme Court has established clear jurisdictional rules."
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |
Reintroduced Legislation Would Improve Freight Rail Service Lawmakers in the U.S. Senate Thursday reduced the Reliable Rail Service Act. The legislation seeks to help address the unreliable service and high costs of rail shipping for American businesses. Supported by members of the agriculture industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers, the bill ensures the largest freight railroads provide American businesses reliable services at reasonable rates. Rail shippers, including farmers, continue to face poor service, significant service disruptions, and sky-high prices that are impacting communities, and consumers, all while the nation's largest railroads' profits are at record highs. Senators Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, and Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, reintroduced the legislation. Marshall says, "Service failures hurt our shippers who use the rail to deliver their products to key export facilities." The bill establishes specific criteria for the Surface Transportation Board to consider when evaluating whether carriers are meeting their common carrier obligation to give shippers much-needed certainty that is currently lacking. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek PFAS Farm Bill Funding A group of lawmakers is asking for Farm Bill funding to help rural communities with PFAS contamination. In a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, the lawmakers say, "It is imperative that we take decisive action to provide assistance and relief to those affected by PFAS.” The use of PFAS chemicals in various industrial and commercial applications has led to widespread contamination, posing a significant threat to our environment, public health, and agricultural systems. Farmers and rural communities, in particular, bear the brunt of PFAS contamination, according to the letter, as it affects their drinking water, soil quality, and livestock health. The lawmakers urge Farm Bill writers to include the Healthy H2O Act within the legislation. The bill aims to address PFAS contamination in water supplies by funding water testing, treatment, and remediation. The effort was led by Senator Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine. *********************************************************************************** USDA Solicits Nominations to the Tribal Advisory Committee The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced it will establish a Tribal Advisory Committee and is requesting nominations for membership. The notice is among USDA’s efforts to remove barriers to service for tribal governments, citizens, and tribal nations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called the committee “an important step towards ensuring tribal perspectives are well represented at USDA and positioned to inform how the Department meets its trust responsibility to tribes across the nation." Authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, the Tribal Advisory Committee provides advice and guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture on matters relating to tribal and Indian affairs. As a federal advisory committee, the Tribal Advisory Committee will provide invaluable recommendations on USDA programs and policies, including through an annual report to Congress. The nomination period for membership to serve on this advisory committee will be open through August 14, 2023. Specific information and nomination instructions are available in the Federal Register. *********************************************************************************** Genetically Modified Seed Prices Rising Faster Than Non-GM Prices farmers paid for crop seed increased significantly faster than the prices farmers received for crop commodities between 1990 and 2020. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that during that period, the average price farmers paid for all seed rose by 270 percent, while the crop commodity price index rose 56 percent. For crops planted predominantly with genetically modified seed – corn, soybeans, and cotton – seed prices rose by an average of 463 percent between 1990 and 2020. During this period, GM seed prices peaked in 2014 at 639 percent above 1990 price levels. Despite their higher cost, GM crop varieties have provided significant productivity gains for farmers, partly through higher yield, but also by lowering farm production costs. For example, GM traits for insect resistance reduce the need for insecticide applications. Similarly, GM traits for herbicide tolerance provide a substitute for mechanical tillage, thus reducing labor, machinery, and fuel previously used for controlling weeds. *********************************************************************************** Survey Highlights Barriers to Effective Herbicide-Resistant Weeds Management A recent survey of certified crop advisors in all 50 U.S. states shows they are concerned about the escalation of herbicide resistance and the impediments to effective weed management. The Weed Science Society of America survey found that four out of ten crop advisers were concerned about the challenges in managing herbicide-resistant weeds over the next five years – a significantly higher percentage than those concerned about resistance to insecticides or fungicides. Concern was greatest among those working with large-scale growers in the West or the Great Plains states and those supporting corn, rice or beet production. Crop advisors listed economics as the number one barrier to effective management of herbicide-resistant weeds, followed by management complexity, supply constraints, limited available technology, time constraints and the misguided perception that a "silver bullet" will emerge to support the management-resistant weeds. In addition, 82 percent of those surveyed agree or strongly agree that growers need to evolve how they think about resistance management. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds USDA Bolstering Working Lands for Wildlife Program The National Association of Conservation Districts welcomed this week’s expansion of USDA’s Working Lands for Wildlife program. The expansion includes close alignment of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency, centered around WLFW Frameworks for Conservation Action. The frameworks are biome-level conservation strategies rooted in the latest science and best practices. Their research and conservation tools are used to align stakeholders and prioritize conservation actions to achieve landscape scale objectives and benefit both people and wildlife. NACD President Kim LaFleur says, “This strategy will provide producers and land stewards in critical biomes across the country the opportunity to voluntarily implement conservation that enhances wildlife habitats. Since 2010, more than 8,400 producers in 48 states have teamed up under WLFW to conserve and enhance nearly 12 million acres of working agricultural lands. Conservation districts, land operators, and partners can learn more about participating in the WLFW program by visiting the program’s webpage and talking with their local NRCS staff.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, first quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas supplies follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather Disturbances moving through the Corn Belt will bring rounds of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, especially from Nebraska to Indiana. Some of these storms may become severe with wind and hail the most likely threats and centered on Illinois, where the rain would be most welcome. South of this zone of precipitation, heat continues to build with triple digits extending up into Missouri and perhaps southern Illinois.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |
Cost of Summer Cookout Down Slightly From 10-Year High Celebrating the 4th of July with a cookout will cost significantly more than two years ago, although prices have fallen slightly from record highs in 2022. Families will pay $67.73 to host an Independence Day cookout with ten family members or friends, based on the 2023 American Farm Bureau Federation marketbasket survey. The $67.73 grocery bill is down three percent from 2022, but still approximately 14 percent higher than prices were just two years ago. Last year set a record high since AFBF began the survey in 2013, and 2023 comes in as the second-highest cost. The cookout favorites include cheeseburgers, chicken breasts, pork chops, homemade potato salad, strawberries and ice cream, among other products. The marketbasket survey shows a year-to-year increase in the cost of hamburger buns, beef and potato salad, while there are drops in the cost of chicken breasts, lemonade and cookies. Although historically high, the cost of the cookout breaks down to less than $7 per person. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cost of Home-grilled Cheeseburger up 10 Cents From 2022 Following the Farm Bureau marketbasket survey, USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reports that cheeseburgers will cost more this year for an Independence Day cookout. USDA says that in May 2023, the ingredients for a home-prepared ¼-pound cheeseburger totaled $2.17 per burger, an increase of 10 cents from 2022. Prices for cheeseburger ingredients grew more slowly over the year than prices for all groceries, which rose 5.8 percent from May 2022 to May 2023. Ground beef made up the largest cost of the burger at $1.24, and Cheddar cheese accounted for $0.37. Both these items increased in price by 3.5 percent between 2022 and 2023 and together accounted for half the increase in costs. Bread prices rose the fastest, by 21.5 percent, and added 4 cents to the cost of a burger between 2022 and 2023. Tomato prices fell slightly over the year, but an increase in lettuce prices added one cent to total costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Investment in Wildlife Conservation The Department of Agriculture Tuesday expanded wildlife conservation investments by $500 million over the next five years. The effort leverages all available conservation programs, including the Conservation Reserve Program, through its Working Lands for Wildlife effort. The commitments will ramp up the conservation assistance for farmers, ranchers, private forest owners and tribes with a focus on working lands in key geographies across the country. The funding will help deliver a series of cohesive Frameworks for Conservation Action, which establish a common vision across the partnership of public and private interests and goals for delivering conservation resources in a given ecosystem, combining cutting-edge science with local knowledge, according to USDA. The new funding includes $250 million from the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and $250 million from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “Working Lands for Wildlife is ready to go to the next level, and today’s incorporation of the Conservation Reserve Program into its vision is a major leap forward.” *********************************************************************************** CFTC Announces Second Voluntary Carbon Markets Convening July 19 The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced the second voluntary carbon markets convening set for next month. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 19, at the CFTC's Washington, D.C. headquarters at 11:30 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss recent private sector initiatives for high-quality carbon credits, current trends and developments in the cash and derivatives markets for carbon credits, and public sector initiatives related to carbon markets. CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam says, “The voluntary carbon markets are at a critical point in their development and growth, and the has an important policy responsibility to promote product innovation, price discovery, and liquidity for high-quality carbon credits.” As the voluntary carbon markets evolve, the goal of the meeting is to build upon the information discussed at the CFTC’s first convening and the information learned from public comments as submitted in response to the Commission’s June 2022 Request for Information on Climate-Related Financial Risk. *********************************************************************************** Animal Food Manufacturers Vital to US Economy New research from the American Feed Industry Association shows the industry drives economic growth across the national and local economies. The organization's economic contribution study estimates that in 2023, the total animal food industry, including indirect and induced effects, will generate $267.1 billion in sales. The industry will employ roughly 760,000 full- and part-time and contract employees, paying out $55 billion in salaries and employee benefits before year-end. At the local, state and national levels, the industry will file $18.5 billion in taxes in 2023. The 83-page report showed that the top five states for feed and pet food sales this year will be California, with an estimated $19.5 billion, Missouri at $18.6 billion, Texas at $17.1 billion, Iowa at $16.5 billion, and Kansas at $16.2 billion. The states with the most feed mills included Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Missouri employs the most animal food manufacturing employees with over 54,350, followed by California, Texas, Iowa and Pennsylvania. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Announces Allocations for High-Speed Internet Program The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration this week today announced allocated funding for reliable high-speed internet. States, D.C., and territories will use funding from the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program to administer grant programs within their borders. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo says, “What this announcement means for people across the country is that if you don’t have access to quality, affordable high-speed Internet service now – you will.” The funding will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses. States, Washington D.C., and territories will receive their formal notice of allocation on June 30, 2023. To view state-by-state funding across the Biden Administration's high-speed Internet portfolio, visit InternetforAll.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts ahead of Friday's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports from USDA. Weather A few weak disturbances will be moving through the Corn Belt on Wednesday with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some severe weather will be possible, mostly centered on Wisconsin, though we may see that threat expand elsewhere in the region. Heat that had been over Texas early this week will expand up into Kansas and the Ozarks Wednesday and farther north and east the rest of the week with triple-digit readings for a few days.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |
Biden Administration Set to Issue New WOTUS Rule by Sept. 1, Asks for Court Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- EPA plans to complete a proposed rewrite of the 2023 waters of the U.S. rule on or before Sept. 1, 2023, after a Supreme Court ruling in May essentially struck down the Biden administration rule. The agency filed a motion to stay an ongoing WOTUS lawsuit in federal court on Monday, telling the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota that a rewrite is on the way. "Federal Defendants respectfully request that the court stay this case," EPA said in its motion. "Good cause exists for this request. Federal defendants are developing a new rule to amend the 2023 rule consistent with Sackett." The agency said in its motion it would be best to preserve resources and conserve "judicial economy" by staying the case. The federal court in North Dakota had issued a 24-state preliminary injunction against the Biden rule. "Federal defendants' new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case," the agency said in the motion. "A stay will allow the parties time to assess the new rule and determine whether to continue to litigate this case. A stay will also serve the interest of judicial economy because it may result in avoiding unnecessary litigation and/or narrowing the issues." The injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. In addition, an injunction is in place in Texas and Idaho as a result of a lawsuit filed in Texas. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled that a tract of land owned by Michael and Chantell Sackett in Idaho was not a WOTUS. In addition, the court struck down the agency's use of the so-called "significant-nexus" standard to make Clean Water Act determinations. EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features, if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test." Alito's ruling noted in defining "waters of the U.S.," the court revisits what has been "a contentious and difficult task." Alito said the phrase "waters of the U.S." has sparked decades of EPA action and litigation. The boundary between "significant" and insignificant is far from clear, Alito wrote. EPA argued that "waters" also include wetlands. But Alito points to the presence of puddles and noted in an earlier decision that ponds are not considered part of waters of the U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |
Plan Would Increase Access to Crop and Livestock Insurance Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act. It would equip new producers, beginning farmers, and U.S. veterans with the crop insurance protections they need to be productive, profitable, and successful. The legislation would align the definition of “Beginning Farmer” to match most other beginning-farmer programs, extending crop and livestock insurance protections to ten years for new and beginning farmers. This increase to ten years would apply to all federal crop insurance programs, including livestock policies. “We have to do a better job of helping new farmers build successful operations,” Craig says. “We’re working to strengthen the farm safety net and ensure we’re preparing the next generation of family farmers.” Recent estimates say 34 percent of all U.S. producers are over 65 years old, while only eight percent were under 35. Forty percent of all farmlands will transfer ownership over the next 20 years. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $500 Million to Expand Domestic Biofuels The USDA is planning to invest up to $500 million to increase the availability of domestic biofuels and give Americans additional cleaner-fuel options at the pump. “By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we’re strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers, and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities.” The first group of applicants for funding through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program will receive $25 million for 59 infrastructure projects. In July, the USDA will start accepting applications for another $450 million in grants through the HBIIP. These grants will support the infrastructure needed to lower out-of-pocket costs for transportation, fueling, and distribution facilities to install and upgrade biofuel-related infrastructure like pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks. Grants cover up to 75 percent or $5 million of total project costs to help facilities convert to higher-blend fuels. *********************************************************************************** BLM Extends Public Comment Period on Conservation Rule The Bureau of Land Management extended the public comment period on its new land use rule through July fifth. The bureau wants more feedback on its proposal to elevate conservation on federal lands. The announcement is getting significant pushback from the Public Lands Council, conservatives, energy companies, and ranchers in the Mountain West. Under the proposal, conservation would get equal footing to other land uses like oil and gas drilling, mining, grazing, and timber harvesting. Environmental groups would be allowed to lease federally owned parcels for preservation and habitat restoration. Opponents say changes to the rules for 246 million acres of land would undermine the industries that rely on those lands. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon says, “Simply put, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. It pits productive uses of public lands against conservation – a gross mischaracterization of the concept.” The House and Senate already have bills to halt the rule. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker Reintroducing Bill to Get EV Industry into Biofuel Program A Democratic lawmaker announced plans to reintroduce a bipartisan bill that would get electric vehicles into the national biofuel blending program. The legislation would allow electricity generated from renewable biomass to qualify for credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The White House recently stopped plans to do so for fear of lawsuits. Under the bill, companies that produce power generated from renewable gas used for charging EVs would be eligible to generate lucrative credits under the RFS. That’s a slight but important difference from the Environmental Protection Agency’s approach, which would have allowed EV manufacturers like Tesla to generate the credits. “The manufacturers don’t produce the electricity,” says California Representative John Garamendi, the bill’s sponsor. “We know that the biomass/biogas industry can produce electricity in a way that benefits the overall economy and ecology of the nation.” The bill directs the EPA, which oversees the RFS, to implement the plan. *********************************************************************************** USDA Approves Lab-Grown Chicken The USDA gave two startup companies the go-ahead to sell lab-grown chicken. GOOD Meat, a subsidiary of food tech company Eat Just, Inc., and UPSIDE Foods will be allowed to sell their products that have been cultivated from real animal cells. Investopedia says chicken from GOOD Meat and UPSIDE has been declared safe to eat by the USDA. The announcement followed a “no questions” letter from the Food and Drug Administration earlier this year. Cultured meat, also called cell-based or lab-grown, uses stem cells from animal fat or muscle tissue to feed cells, allowing them to grow. It’s then grown to the proper density in bioreactors before getting separated by a centrifuge. “This news was a major moment for our company, the industry, and the food system,” says Josh Tetrick, CEO of GOOD Meat and Eat Just. Analysts predict the cell-cultured meat industry will eventually be worth approximately $25 billion. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker’s Working Group to Address Farm Labor Shortage Members of the House Agriculture Committee have formed a bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group to tackle the ag industry’s continual labor shortage and address other workforce issues. The group is chaired by Representatives Rick Crawford (R-AR) and Don Davis (D-NC). It will look at solutions to the agriculture industry’s labor needs, including reforming the existing H-2A visa program. Those visas currently allow agricultural employers who meet specific requirements to bring a limited number of foreign nationals to the U.S. to fill temporary, seasonal farm jobs. However, in recent years the number has been insufficient to meet the workforce needs of livestock farmers that need year-round employees. The National Pork Producers Council supports expanding the H-2A visa program to year-round agricultural laborers. It also backs reforming the visa system to help with complexity, backlogs, predictability, and costs. The committee will issue an interim report detailing both the challenges and potential solutions.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders in May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by May U.S. new home sales and a report on U.S. consumer confidence in June at 9 a.m. Traders remain keen on the latest weather forecasts and USDA has not had a daily export sales announcement since June 9. Weather Another couple of disturbances will be moving through the Plains on Tuesday, over the top of a strong heat ridge in Texas. Thunderstorms could be very strong in a few areas, especially along the Kansas-Oklahoma border, where conditions are more favorable for very strong winds out of a convective system that may invoke the term derecho if it comes together.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |
U.S. and India Announce Resolution on Key Trade Issues U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the United States and India have agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India also agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs that it imposed in response to the U.S. Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. The Indian tariffs included American products like chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, and apples. These tariff cuts will restore and expand market opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers. “This agreement represents the culmination of intensified bilateral engagement over the last two years to deepen our economic and trade ties,” Tai says. “The result is U.S. producers and manufacturers will now enjoy renewed access to a critical global market, and we will strengthen our trade relationship with one of our closest partners.” As India’s Prime Minister makes an official state visit to the U.S., Tai says the agreement opens a new chapter of bilateral cooperation. *********************************************************************************** Ag Reacts to the Dispute Settlement Between the U.S. and India Farmers for Free Trade issued a statement responding to the resolution of a number of trade disputes between India and the U.S. FFT Executive Director Brian Kuehl (KEEL) says India has always represented an enormous market for America’s ag exports. “While there has long been frustration over unnecessary barriers to entry into the Indian market, this announcement is a positive step forward in removing tariffs and opening trade,” he says. “The fact that India placed tariffs on U.S. products in the first place is a reminder of the damage trade wars caused here at home.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the removal of the tariffs is a major win for America’s farmers. “Producers will now be able to increase sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of America’s top trading partners,” Vilsack says. “USDA applauds the Office of the USTR for their diligence in reaching this welcome agreement.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Supporting American Producers, School Meals, and Emergency Operations Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is providing $2.7 billion to support American farmers, students participating in school meal programs, and emergency food operations. Almost $1.3 billion goes to states to purchase foods to be distributed to schools for their meal programs, and almost $1 billion for states to order commodities from USDA vendors for emergency food providers. Those emergency providers include food banks and community kitchens that face high demand and supply chain disruptions. USDA is also making up to $400 million in grants available to help support domestic fertilizer production capacity and lower costs for producers. “American agriculture has continued to be resilient in the face of significant and unpredictable challenges,” Vilsack says. “Today’s comprehensive set of investments will help producers by increasing commodity purchases for schools and emergency food providers and supporting expanded domestic fertilizer capacity to help lower costs. This better prepares us for the future.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Appropriations Approves Ag-FDA Funding Bill Senate appropriators unanimously approved a bill to fund the Agriculture Department and Food and Drug Administration through fiscal year 2024. That’s a level of consensus that stands in stark contrast to the deep partisan divides on display during the House’s markup of their agriculture and FDA spending bill last week. The Senate spending bill, which the panel approved 28-0 after just over an hour of discussion, would fund the agencies at $25.993 billion, more than $8 billion above the funding level in the Republican-led House bill. That House spending proposal drew intense pushback from Democrats on the Appropriations Committee over the course of a more than eight-hour markup on June 14. That session ended very abruptly after a particularly heated exchange between Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and committee chair Kay Granger (R-Texas). New Mexico Democrat Martin Heinrich, chair of the subcommittee, lauded the bipartisan collaborative nature of the Senate’s spending bill. *********************************************************************************** American Agri-Women Release Vision for 2023 Farm Bill The American Agri-Women released their vision for what’s important in the 2023 Farm Bill. “Agriculture is on the front lines of challenges like dealing with climate, food security, national security, and world-class telecommunications to enable further developments in natural resource management,” says AAW President Heather Hampton-Knodle (Kuh-NO-dle). The group’s recent work builds on concepts the group published in 2022 that include fundamentals like well-funded, flexible crop insurance; revitalizing research infrastructure; access to markets and inputs and credit to help pay for exponential increases in inputs and equipment; and modernizing aging utilities for water and underserved telecommunications in rural areas. Their additions to the original vision include using export programs to secure global supply chains, increasing programs to support rural large-livestock veterinarians, and workforce development for the timber industry. “The farm bill is needed for food security and national security as well as playing roles in a positive trade balance,” says Hampton-Knodle. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in Several Parts of Rural America Despite mostly near- to below-normal temps in much of the Midwest, excluding the Upper Midwest and Western Corn Belt, much of the region didn’t see appreciable rainfall. As a result, short-term dryness continued to worsen, leading to widespread deterioration. The only improvements took place in the Eastern Corn Belt and Kentucky. Much of the Northern Plains had below-average rainfall during the week, adding to short-term precipitation deficits. Above-normal temps and high winds only made drought conditions worse by increasing moisture loss from soils and vegetation. Several rounds of heavy rainfall with thunderstorms traveled through the south from Oklahoma to Mississippi, leading to targeted improvements in abnormal dryness. Improvements took place in the Texas Panhandle because of well-above-average rainfall. However, the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys saw short-term dryness continue to increase. Another week of above-normal rainfall across many areas of the Intermountain West resulted in widespread but targeted improvements.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will examine rainfall amounts and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cold front moving through the Mid-Atlantic and South will keep areas of showers and thunderstorms going for Monday, after bringing widespread rains to much of the Corn Belt over the weekend. The Great Lakes will see some showers as well as small parts of the Plains and Prairies. South of the front it will be very hot, with another round of triple digit heat for Texas and nearby areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |
Lawmakers Introduce American Farmers Feed the World Act Lawmakers this week introduced the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill would “keep food in America’s international food aid programs.” Specifically, the legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, all while safeguarding the interests of U.S. farmers. U.S. Wheat Associates joined the National Association of Wheat Growers and other agricultural organizations for the introduction of the bill Thursday. USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman says, “The reforms in the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 will ensure that more food gets to more people in need throughout the world, without spending any additional resources.” Representative Tracy Mann, a Kansas Republican who joined colleagues to introduce the legislation, says, “This bill puts a stake in the ground: it’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.” *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Announce Biofuels Funding Monday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack heads to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota Monday. The Department of Agriculture says Vilsack will announce significant new funding being awarded by USDA to bolster and expand the availability of homegrown biofuels nationwide. During the event, USDA says Vilsack will also underscore USDA's efforts to invest in climate-related research and development in states like Minnesota, which helps result in scientific breakthroughs such as innovative biofuel technologies that combat the climate crisis, lower costs for American producers and families, and boost American energy independence. In the briefing regarding the announcement, USDA did not announce an exact location for the event. The announcement is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and building a clean energy economy to tackle the climate crisis and make our communities more resilient. *********************************************************************************** California Delays Prop 12 Implementation California this week delayed the implementation of Proposition 12. Granting six months of additional relief for products in the supply chain allows grocery stores to remain stocked so Californians have uninterrupted access to pork products, especially with rising food prices, according to the National Pork Producers Council. In a statement, NPPC claims, “While this temporary solution does not solve the challenges and uncertainty California Proposition 12 brings to our industry, NPPC looks forward to working with Congress to find a permanent solution to this problem.” The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the law earlier this year, stating Congress, not the courts, has the authority to block the law. Proposition 12 requires veal calves, breeding pigs, and egg-laying hens to be housed in systems that comply with specific standards for freedom of movement, cage-free design, and specified minimum floor space. Implementation of Proposition 12 is now set for January 1, 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces $300 Million Investment for Underserved Producers The Department of Agriculture Thursday announced its selection of 50 projects for potential award, totaling approximately $300 million, for underserved producers funding. The projects will help improve access to land, capital, and markets for underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. The funding comes from the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "By providing the resources, tools and technical support needed to directly help local farmers and ensure we have a strong agricultural system across the country." For one of the projects, the Community Development Corporation of Oregon will work to provide long-term and sustainable land access to disadvantaged refugee and immigrant beginning farmers in Oregon's east Multnomah and Clackamas counties. Another project by Maine Farmland Trust will work with low-income farmers on access to low-interest capital for land purchase or business operations, farm upgrades and infrastructure investments. See the full list of Increasing Land Access Program selected projects at www.fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Access to Primary Care Varies Across the Country New data released this week from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows access to primary care physicians varies across the United States. The number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents is generally higher in much of the Northeast, along the West Coast, in Hawaii, and parts of the mountainous West and upper Midwest. The availability of primary care physicians per capita is generally lower in much of the Great Plains—especially the Southern Great Plains—and the Lower Mississippi Delta and Southeast. However, there are substantial variations in the availability of physicians within these regions. For instance, in rural counties, there are fewer physicians per capita in counties adjacent to urban counties than in those farther from urban areas. USDA says this is likely because residents travel from nearby rural areas to urban doctors. The lowest rates of physicians per capita are in rural counties with an urban population of less than 2,500. *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio Releases First Impact Report Pivot Bio, a sustainable agriculture company, released its inaugural impact report this week. The report documents how farmers are using their products to improve their productivity and profitability without synthetic fertilizer polluting local rivers or contributing to climate change. In 2022 alone, Pivot Bio helped its customers replace over 32,000 tons of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer, avoiding roughly 226,400 metric tons of CO2e - equivalent to powering 44,000 U.S. homes for a year. Pivot Bio CEO Karsten Temme says, "This data shows farmers are using biological nitrogen to reliably increase their productivity, profitability, and sustainability." The company's microbial nitrogen is manufactured with an emissions footprint that is just two percent that of synthetic fertilizer and uses 1,000 times less water. Pivot Bio's microbial nitrogen can replace approximately a quarter of a farmer's synthetic nitrogen. In 2022, it was used by farmers on over three million acres in the United States, and the company reported revenue of over $60 million.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, but expectations are low as the week only had one modest soybean sale announcement, reported to unknown destinations. At 2 p.m., USDA's June 1 cattle on-feed and monthly cold storage reports are set to be released. The latest weather forecasts remain the primary concern of grain traders. Weather A front that has been stuck in the Northern Plains all week continues to be active on Friday. Showers and thunderstorms have been rather sporadic this week but are expected to increase in intensity as a system in the West approaches Friday night. Additional severe storms are possible near the Texas Panhandle yet again today. An upper-level system continues to spin around the East Coast where showers will be possible across the far eastern Midwest. In between the two, another day of hot and dry conditions continue to stress crops.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |
EPA Sets Final Renewable Fuel Volumes for 2023-2025 The Environmental Protection Agency Wednesday released final volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023, 2024 and 2025. EPA Administrator Michael Regan says, “Today’s final rule reflects our efforts to ensure stability of the program for years to come.” The announcement provides for annual growth in total renewable fuel volumes, although with lower conventional biofuel volumes than EPA had proposed. For 2023, EPA set an implied 15.25-billion-gallon requirement for conventional ethanol, which includes a supplemental 250 million gallons a prior court decision required EPA to restore to the RFS. For 2024 and 2025, EPA holds the implied conventional volume level at 15 billion gallons, despite proposing 15.25 billion gallons for those two years. National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag says, “A multi-year RFS volume rule offers stability and certainty for renewable fuels. However, when it comes to addressing pressing energy, environmental and economic challenges, EPA’s final rule falls short of the emission reductions and cost-saving benefits the higher proposed ethanol volumes would have provided.” *********************************************************************************** Grassley Condemns Biden Biofuels Bait-And-Switch Senator Chuck Grassley Wednesday criticized the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule setting minimum biofuels blending levels for the next three years below current production capabilities. The Iowa Republican says, “For an administration obsessed with reducing carbon emissions, this rule makes absolutely no sense.” While the plan makes modest increases to blend levels for certain biodiesel products, the overall biofuels volume remains unchanged, and ethanol volumes were reduced from proposed rule levels. The American Soybean Association also criticized the EPA announcement, as the rule does not accurately reflect the growth expected in the industry and falls far below the industry's current production. ASA President Daryl Cates of Illinois says the announcement fails "to account for the progress being made in biofuels investment and growth." Expanded crush capacity coming online in the next few years translates into about 700 million gallons of renewable diesel, far above EPA's three-year RVO growth of only about 590 million gallons. *********************************************************************************** Ernst, Stabenow, Introduce FARMLAND Act Senators Joni Ernst and Debbie Stabenow this week introduced The Foreign Agricultural Restrictions to Maintain Local Agriculture and National Defense, or FARMLAND Act. The legislation would overhaul the current system that has allowed China’s malign influence to threaten American food security and national security by buying up agricultural land in the United States. Ernst, an Iowa Republican, says, “America needs to know how our foreign adversary has been allowed to use loopholes to attempt to exploit any potential vulnerability and assert control over our agriculture industry.” Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, adds, “This bill safeguards our nation’s farmland and food supply by overhauling the system for federal oversight of foreign land ownership.” Foreign ownership and investment in U.S. agricultural land has nearly doubled over the last decade, according to USDA. Among other things, the FARMLAND Act would develop a publicly available database of agricultural land owned by foreign persons, and prohibit them from participating in Farm Service Agency programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reminds Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports by July 17 Agricultural producers who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their local USDA office before the applicable deadline, which for many places and crops is July 17. USDA’s Farm Service Agency also reminds producers with login access to farmers.gov of several features that can help expedite acreage reporting, such as the ability to view, print and label maps. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Filing an accurate and timely crop acreage report is an important step in receiving USDA program benefits, including safety net, conservation, and disaster assistance support.” July 17 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. Producers should also report crop acreage they intended to plant but were unable to plant because of a natural disaster. Producers can contact their FSA county office for acreage reporting deadlines that are specific to their county. *********************************************************************************** 2022 USDA Nutrition Assistance Spending Declines Federal spending on USDA’s food and nutrition assistance programs totaled $183.0 billion in fiscal year 2022, down six percent from the record-high spending of $194.7 billion in 2021, adjusted for inflation to 2022 dollars. Before adjusting for inflation, total 2021 spending was $183.3 billion. In 2022, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program maximum allotment permanently increased after the Thrifty Food Plan was re-evaluated, and several States also ended SNAP emergency allotments, which temporarily raised all recipients’ benefits to at least the maximum for their household size. SNAP spending totaled $119.5 billion in FY 2022, one percent less than the inflation-adjusted record-high spending in 2021. Spending on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, totaled $5.7 billion—an increase of seven percent from inflation-adjusted spending in 2021, reflecting an increase in program food costs per participant. Combined spending on child nutrition programs totaled $35.1 billion in FY 2022, increasing 19 percent from the inflation-adjusted total in the previous year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Promoting Summer Food Safety Whether you’re a grill master or a first-time barbecue cook, food safety should always be part of your routine to ensure a healthy and happy Fourth of July. USDA is promoting summer food safety tips as consumer behavior studies have shown that individuals don’t always properly wash their hands or use a food thermometer. Ensure your food is safe to eat this Fourth of July by following a series of food safety steps. Start with cleaning the grill and other items before the touch food, avoid cross contamination of raw meats and vegetables, and use food thermometers to ensure your grilled food is ready. Although frozen products may appear to be pre-cooked or browned, treat them as raw food and cook thoroughly. The final tip is to chill food properly. Perishable food should be consumed or refrigerated within two hours, one hour if outdoor temperatures are 90 F and above.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday morning activities start with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor at 7:30 a.m., but no export sales report until Friday. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators for May follow at 9 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Federal Chairman Jerome Powell goes before the Senate, likely repeating Tuesday's testimony to the House. Weather A persistent weather pattern this week continues on Thursday with a front stuck up in the Northern Plains that should remain active and a system in the Southeast that continues to spin. Thunderstorms are expected to develop in the High Plains yet again Thursday, which may be severe. Elsewhere in the Corn Belt it will be hot and dry, with stresses continuing to mount as the region looks forward to weekend rainfall.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |
Poll Shows Voters Think Rural Health Care Lags Behind Urban Areas A new survey from One Country Project shows that voters think health care in rural communities is markedly worse than in the rest of America. Those findings were revealed soon after the OCP hosted its annual Rural Progress Summit. Stakeholders from across the U.S. gathered to discuss challenges facing rural communities and the importance of elevating rural priorities on the national stage. “Access to quality, affordable health care shouldn’t be determined by your zip code,” says OCP Founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. More than 130 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. That leaves rural residents with no option but to travel hours to the nearest medical center, which is especially dangerous in a life-threatening emergency. Air ambulances are often relied on, and the survey shows overwhelming support, at 84 percent, for increasing the Medicare reimbursement rate for air medical services. Medicare currently covers just 50 percent of the associated costs. *********************************************************************************** Rural Mainstreet Index Reaches Highest Level Since 2022 After dropping below growth neutral in March, the June Rural Mainstreet Index expanded above the threshold for a third-straight month to its highest point since May 2022. That’s according to the June monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture. The overall June reading is 56.9, the highest since 2022 and up from May’s 55.8. The index range is zero to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. “After negative growth during the first quarter of 2023, the Rural Mainstreet economy experienced positive but slow economic growth for the second quarter,” says Ernie Goss of Creighton University. The region’s farmland price index jumped from 56.3 in May to 59.3 in June. Bank CEOs ranked Federal Reserve rate hikes as the greatest challenge ahead during the next 12 months. Bankers also continue to have a positive outlook for payment of farm loans in the next year. *********************************************************************************** Five Benefits of Modern Dairy Practices Dairy is an important part of the diets of millions of Americans. The average person consumes about 276 pounds of dairy in a year. However, despite its positive impact, a significant portion of the population often misunderstands dairy. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Dairy Leadership Group put together the top five benefits of modern dairy. The first is the U.S. dairy industry produces more milk than in 1944 with 16 million fewer cows. The dairy industry accounts for 3.5 percent of total U.S. GDP. By way of comparison, the entire auto industry accounts for three percent. Dairy is also more environmentally friendly, having reduced its GHG footprint by 17 percent and water usage by 10 percent in the last 15 years. Ninety-seven percent of the 34,000 dairy farms are family-owned and operated. Dairy is also an excellent source of 18 of the 22 essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. *********************************************************************************** American Farmland Trust Applauds No EMIT’s Act Representatives from Wisconsin and California introduced the “Naturally Offsetting Emissions by Managing and Implementing Tillage Strategies” or “NO EMIT’s Act.” The bill would help support farmers in improving soil health. American Farmland Trust applauded the bipartisan bill’s introduction and its inclusion of one of AFT’s top farm bill priorities: establishing a federal match for state and Tribal soil health programs. “In recent years, states have begun creating innovative soil health programs that fill current gaps in support and help producers voluntarily adopt soil health practices in locally tailored ways,” says Tim Fink, AFT Policy Director. “State programs can struggle to keep pace with producer demand, so creating a federal program to match state and Tribal funding would help leverage existing soil health programs and incentivizes others to create programs of their own.” Creating that federal matching program has broad support from AFT, six state agencies, and stakeholders from 29 states. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Chile Agribusiness Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Santiago, Chile, September 25-29. American agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from both Chile and Peru. The trade mission coincides with Peru’s USDA-endorsed food trade show that offers additional networking opportunities for participants. “This year, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Chile diplomatic relations,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Chile and the neighboring Peru are some of our key trading partners, representing the second and third-largest markets in South America.” Total agricultural exports to these markets have grown significantly since establishing the Chile Free Trade Agreement and the Peru Trade Promotions Agreement. Exports to this region exceeded $2 billion in 2022. During January-April 2023, U.S. ag exports to Chile have increased by four percent from the same period last year. The region features relatively high per capita incomes and purchasing power. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Grassroots Campaign Against BLM Land Rule The Public Lands Council launched a grassroots campaign regarding the Bureau of Land Management’s Proposed rule titled “Conservation and Landscape Health.” The proposed rule creates significant concerns about changes to the BLM’s authority to manage the nation’s public lands and opens the door to removing livestock grazing from the range. “The BLM must follow the law in managing our nation’s public lands for multiple uses and sustained benefits for all,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Public lands grazing is an important conservation tool that protects these landscapes and is integral to national food security.” PLC also wants to remind the bureau that grazing is an essential use of America’s public lands, and they hope all stakeholders will join the agency in sending a letter to the BLM’s leadership underscoring the responsibility to be good partners, especially since they’ve “fallen short,” according to Glover. The agency stops accepting comments on July 5.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will be paying attention as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to Congress Wednesday and to the Senate Thursday, interested in any comments about the future of interest rates. The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to release renewable volume obligations sometime Wednesday, as rumored numbers began circulating Tuesday. Traders will stay close to the latest weather forecasts and consider Tuesday afternoon's lower crop ratings for corn, soybeans and spring wheat. Weather A system continues to spin in the Southeast on Wednesday, which will continue to produce scattered showers and thunderstorms. A front in the Plains will be active as well. Between the two, hot and dry conditions will pressure remaining soil moisture.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 20, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will be paying close attention to weather data and the latest forecasts, the main focus of June's grain markets. A report on May U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. The Crop Progress report will have the latest crop condition ratings at 3 p.m. Weather A pair of ridges are trying to connect up early this week, causing heat to build from Texas into parts of the Midwest. The ridges have stalled a front across the Northern Plains and eastern Canadian Prairies, where showers will come in waves the next few days. A system stuck in the Southeast will see showers continue there as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 19, 2023 |
USDA Investing $320 Million to Strengthen Supply Chains The USDA is investing $320 million to create new and better markets for agricultural producers and food businesses in 19 states across rural America. “Our goal is to expand processing capacity, create fairer markets and more revenue streams and market opportunities to help bring down food costs for families at the grocery store,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re partnering with entrepreneurs in rural areas to build brighter futures, connect business owners to new markets, and create good jobs for generations to come.” USDA is investing the funds to strengthen food supply chains and create more opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs in 19 states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, and others. For example, family-owned businesses like a meat market and a bison processing facility will be able to expand their production capabilities, maintain the highest quality control possible, and save jobs. For more information on opportunities through USDA Rural Development, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National Drought Summary Showing a Mixed Outlook The Weekly Drought Monitor showed above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures resulting in another week of some improvements in the western U.S. The exception is the Pacific Northwest, where drought conditions continue to worsen along the northern Cascade Mountains. The monitor shows a mix of improving and worsening conditions in the Great Plains. Improvements are confined mainly in the western Great Plains. The Corn Belt is seeing widespread degradation of moderate drought and abnormal dryness. High evaporation rates have resulted in significant loss of soil moisture. Any rainfall over the past week in the Southeast U.S. fell in areas that didn’t need it. Virginia is showing moderate drought and abnormal dryness is showing in other locations through the southeast. The Southern U.S. has more mixed totals. Locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee experienced increasing dryness. In western parts of the Southern Plains, pockets of heavy rainfall continued adding to 60-day precipitation surpluses. *********************************************************************************** Young Cattlemen’s Conference Graduates 71 Leaders The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Young Cattlemen’s Conference program concluded its successful relaunch after a three-year hiatus. This year’s class included 71 leaders from across the country and every sector of the beef industry. After nine days of intensive training, including a five-city tour showcasing every facet of the beef industry, members completed the trip with a full day of representation in Washington, D.C. The event is designed to expose participants to the full supply chain. Completing the YCC prepares participants to serve as leaders within their state associations in addition to being advocates for the NCBA and the beef community. “During the YCC, each member of the class has had the opportunity to better understand the cattle and beef industries and the complex relationships that represent the industry today,” says 2023 YCC Chair Jake Feddes of Montana. “Each member has also made connections that will benefit them in the future.” *********************************************************************************** County Committee Nominations are Now Open The USDA is accepting nominations for county committee members. Local elections will occur later this year. County committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received by the local Farm Service Agency by August 1. “Producers serving on FSA county committees play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the agency, serving as the eyes and ears of the producers who elected them,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Elections for members will take place in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). Ag producers who participate or cooperate in a USDA program or reside in the LAA that’s up for election this year may be nominated for candidacy. Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agricultural community serve on FSA county committees, which are made up of three to 11 members serving three-year terms. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Supports Advancements in Ag Research and Innovation Several senators introduced legislation to invest in public research, develop regionally adapted seed varieties and animal breeds, and enable the U.S. to maintain a robust food and ag system. The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act promotes the development of ready-to-use, regionally adapted, and publicly available seed varieties and animal breeds. This would give farmers more tools to confront drought and varying growing conditions, and to have plant and animal varieties that are better suited to their area. Regionally developed seed varieties often result in substantial increases in hardiness and yields. It will also ensure America’s farmers have access to domestically produced seeds and breeds that are developed through publicly available research. “We must make sure our farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt and compete on a global stage,” says bill co-sponsor Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. “This will make sure our research keeps up with farmer innovation.” *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Building Local Relationships The continuing trend toward local food sourcing has put hometown butchers and specialty meat shops on the radar of likely lamb consumers. In June, the American Lamb Board connected with 50 of these U.S. businesses through its new “Butcher Box” direct mail kit. The goal is to reengage with this audience for long-lasting relationships that lead to increased sales of domestic lamb. ALB research found that 24 percent of consumers made retail lamb purchases at independent markets and-or butcher shops. Of those consumers, 30 percent were heavy lamb users, and 35 percent were light lamb users. Some of the selected shops already carry lamb, while some don’t routinely offer it. The initial 50 butchers have a chance to get selected as one of 25 “American Lambassadors” to advocate for American lamb. For information on the new list of the 25 American Lambassadors and places to buy lamb, go to americanlamb.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |
Tentative Labor Agreement at West Coast Ports On Wednesday night, the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement covers all of the West Coast ports and must still be ratified by both sides. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” says MPA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. “We’re also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says this is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. “This agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports and is essential for our industry,” Halstrom says. “We thank both sides for their hard work.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Will Address Prop 12 Kansas Senator Roger Marshall will introduce a bill designed to address California’s Prop 12, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. The Hagstrom Report says Marshall’s bill would stop states from enacting laws that affect agricultural production in other states. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act will preserve the right of states and local governments to regulate agriculture within their jurisdictions free from the interference of other jurisdictions. “U.S. agriculture currently lacks access to new markets because of non-tariff trade barriers overseas,” Marshall says. “The last thing we need is a big state like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states with regulations that will restrict our ability to trade among the states.” Bill co-sponsor John Cornyn of Texas says California shouldn’t be able to tell ranchers in his state how to do their jobs. Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson plans to introduce a companion measure at a later date. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Continues Advancing Farmers’ Right to Repair The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with CLAAS (CLAHS) of America regarding the right to repair. This brings the number of signed MOUs with ag manufacturers to five. Combined, the agreements cover about three-quarters of the agricultural machinery sold every year in the United States. “The MOU with CLAAS demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring farmers have access to the tools they need to keep their farms running and America’s families fed,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever, and they asked us to find a private-sector solution on the right to repair.” Eric Raby, senior VP for the Americas with CLAAS says, “We’re providing the promised solutions for our customers’ businesses, as their success and ours go hand in hand.” The agreement means farmers and independent repair shops can now access everything needed to self-repair their machines. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates ERP Phase Two The USDA is updating the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase Two. The goal is to provide a method for valuing losses and accessing program benefits to eligible producers of certain crops. Those crops can include grapes grown and used by the same producer for wine production or forage that’s grown, stored, and fed to livestock, that don’t generate revenue directly from the sale of the crop. These updates ensure that ERP benefits better reflect these producers’ actual crop losses resulting from 2020 and 2021 natural disaster events. The Farm Service Agency will begin accepting Phase Two applications from eligible wine grape and forage producers once the technical correction to ERP is published in the Federal Register, which should happen by this Friday (today), June 16. The deadline to submit applications for ERP Phase Two is July 14. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says these updates address the unique needs of different producers. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects New Leadership The National Corn Growers Association’s Board of Directors elected Ken Hartman, Jr., as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year starting on October 1. He’s a fifth-generation farmer operating a grain farm with his wife, Anita, daughter, Amanda, and mother, Joan, in Illinois. “I’m honored to continue serving America’s corn farmers with NCGA,” says Hartman. “I look forward to working with my fellow officers as we tackle issues that are critically important to corn growers and rural America.” Hartman currently chairs the NCGA Finance Committee. Hartman was honored by Prairie Farmer magazine with a Master Farmer Award in 2021 for his exceptional ag production skills and commitment to family and service. On October 1, Tom Haag (HAYG) of Minnesota becomes chairman, and the current first vice president, Harold Wolle (WO-lee) of Minnesota, becomes NCGA president. In October 2024, Wolle becomes chairman, and Hartman becomes the organization’s President. *********************************************************************************** Public Lands Council, Western Governors Lead BLM Rule Opposition A proposed rule allowing the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting people like farmers and ranchers who depend on the land. In a letter to BLM director Tracy Stone-Manning, about 60 livestock groups say cattle and sheep producers have partnered with BLM in managing 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. However, BLM didn’t engage them in developing the proposed rule and gave no warning ahead of time that it was developing a rule. “Individually, each of the components of the proposal would have required detailed discussion,” the letter says. “Together, the components demand BLM do the necessary work of engaging stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop lasting outcomes.” BLM’s five public information sessions have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussions. Instead of engaging stakeholders where they operate, BLM is holding briefings in urban areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets Other than the University of Michigan's report on U.S. consumer sentiment, due out at 9 a.m. CDT, there are no significant reports Friday. Traders will be closely watching the latest weather forecasts. Markets will close at their normal times Friday, ahead of the Juneteenth market holiday on Monday and resume trading at 7 p.m. CDT Monday evening. Weather A system that has moved into the Plains will continue to slowly progress eastward on Friday. Areas of showers and thunderstorms continue to be possible there as well as across the Gulf Coast. Some severe weather cannot be ruled out but should not be as widespread as the last few days.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |
USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising Claims The Department of Agriculture Wednesday began implementing a multi-step effort to strengthen the substantiation of animal-raising claims. The agency says the effort builds on the work of USDA to protect consumers from false and misleading labels. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack adds, "USDA is taking action today to ensure the integrity of animal-raising claims and level the playing field for producers who are truthfully using these claims." Animal-raising claims, such as "grass-fed" and "free-range," are voluntary marketing claims that highlight certain aspects of how the source animals for meat and poultry products are raised. These claims must be approved by USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service before they can be included on the labels of meat and poultry products sold to consumers. FSIS will conduct a sampling project to assess antibiotic residues in cattle destined for the "raised without antibiotics" market. FSIS will also issue a revised industry guideline to recommend that companies strengthen the documentation they submit to the agency to substantiate animal-raising claims. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Outlines Strategic Priorities for Wildfires The Biden administration Wednesday announced guidance to federal agency leaders with wildfire responsibilities outlining their vision and goals for managing wildland fires this year. The guidance comes from a joint memo issued by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. The memo highlights other strategic priorities to reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems, engage in post-fire recovery, and make communities more resilient to fire. The memo also references the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy as a guide to working with partners to restore and maintain landscapes and help communities become fire adapted. Vilsack says, “We need to better support our firefighters and that’s why President Biden has proposed long-term reforms that will provide permanent pay increases, better housing, better mental and physical health resources, and better work-life balance.” USDA and the Interior Department aim to have more than 17,000 wildland firefighters on board by the end of this year to help support communities increasingly impacted by wildfires. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Lawmakers Aim to Expand Biofuel Production Opportunities Midwest lawmakers this week introduced the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation would update federal standards to align with the definition of sustainable aviation fuel at the Federal Aviation Administration. The bill would also require agencies to adopt the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies, or GREET Model, the most accurate tool for measuring lifecycle emissions. Iowa Republican Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst introduced the bill along with Deb Fischer from Nebraska, and Democrat Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Grassley says, “Our bill fixes the problem by requiring the FAA reference the most accurate GREET model for emissions assessments, consistent with many other federal agencies.” The GREET Model was commissioned by the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory. It considers crops, land uses and carbon reduction practices and is the best available model that recognizes the agriculture industry’s contributions to advancing domestic energy goals. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Bring Whole Milk Access to All Schools Senator Roger Marshall this week introduced legislation that amends the Richard Russell National School Lunch Act to allow schools participating in the program to serve whole milk. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans reports that nearly 90 percent of Americans do not meet their daily dairy intake recommendations. The Kansas Republican says, "I truly believe food is medicine, and by increasing kids' access to milk, we will help prevent health complications down the road and encourage nutrient-rich diets for years to come." In 2010, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act which amended nutrition standards in the School Lunch Program. Among the changes, the law mandated that flavored milk must be fat-free within the program. In May of 2017, USDA announced a rule that allowed schools to receive waivers for low-fat flavored milk, rather than only fat-free. Leading nutritionists have found that whole dairy fats have no negative effect on a diet, and may even reduce risk of heart disease. *********************************************************************************** CRP Reaches 22 Million Acres in 2022 USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that in 2022, Conservation Reserve Program acreage rose to 22 million acres. USDA's Conservation Reserve Program was established by Congress in 1985. By 1986, the program began to use contracts to retire highly erodible cropland from crop production for 10–15 years. Enrollment grew quickly, reaching 33 million acres in 1990. After the initial contracts were awarded, program goals expanded to include water quality and wildlife habitat improvements in addition to soil erosion reduction. Between 1990 and 2008, CRP enrollment fluctuated around 33 million acres before falling to a 30-year low in 2021. Annual enrollment caps for eligible land are set at each iteration of the Farm Bill. Earlier this week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA would accept more than one million acres from the signup period this year. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Fiscal Year 2024 Suggestions for Plant Protection Projects USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks input for fiscal year 2024 Plant Protection Act funding to protect American agriculture and natural resources. The open period for submitting suggestions for Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program funding runs through August 9, 2023. APHIS will provide $75 million in plant protection funding for the projects, including at least $7.5 million for projects under the National Clean Plant Network. APHIS will set aside up to $4 million in funding to support Tribes, Tribal organizations and universities, as well as other minority-affiliated organizations. Under the Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program, APHIS provides funding to its partners to help them safeguard against, detect, and respond to invasive plant pests and diseases. Climate change has increased the level of plant pest infestations and disease infection, allowed pests to produce more generations each year, and extended the suitable habitat for plant pests. To submit suggestions, visit www.aphis.usda.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales in May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, followed by a report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook comes out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close track of the latest weather forecasts. Weather A front that has remained stalled across the southern tier of the country with active weather continues to be active on Thursday. Clusters of strong to severe storms will again be possible near the Gulf Coast while a more significant severe threat exists in the Southern Plains, including the word derecho. More areas of showers and thunderstorms will spread north through the rest of the Plains and Canadian Prairies, being heavier in Alberta and easing drought concerns there. Some needed showers will go through eastern areas of the Midwest as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |
USDA Enrolls Over One Million Acres in CRP Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that USDA is accepting over one million acres in this year’s Conservation Reserve Program general signup. This is one of several signups that the Farm Service Agency is holding for the program. The results of CRP’s general signup reflect the continued importance of the program as a tool to help producers invest in the long-term health, sustainability, and profitability of their land and resources. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres nationwide. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres, reflecting the success of participating in CRP for the long term. The total number of acres will climb when FSA accepts acres from the Grassland CRP signup that closed on May 26. Producers will still need to develop a conservation plan before contracts go into effect on October 1. The number of accepted acres will be confirmed later this year. *********************************************************************************** Over $700 Million Available to Expand Rural Internet Access USDA is making $714 million dollars in grants and loans available to connect thousands of rural residents, farmers, and business owners to reliable high-speed internet. “High-speed internet is a key to prosperity for people who live and work in rural communities,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “With this funding, we can ensure that rural communities have the internet connectivity needed to continue expanding the rural economy to make sure it’s a place of opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.” The announcement includes $714 million available for investments in 19 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and several others. USDA continues connecting more and more people to high-speed internet in this fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. The department has invested in a total of 142 ReConnect projects that will bring high-speed internet access to 314,000 rural Americans. More information on rural investment resources is available at rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Rise Slightly in May After two straight months of flat food prices, the cost of food increased slightly during May. Overall food prices rose 0.2 percent from April to May. The New York Times says U.S. grocery prices rose 0.1 percent in May, up from April, when prices dropped 0.2 percent. The price of food at restaurants continued climbing, up 0.5 percent during the month. Food prices are rising at a slightly slower rate than they were during recent months but are still much higher than the prices were before COVID-19. Food prices have risen 6.7 percent higher during the past 12 months. After rising 0.5 percent in April, fruit and vegetable prices rose 1.3 percent in May. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs dropped 1.2 percent during May after dropping 0.3 percent in April. The price of eggs dropped almost 14 percent, the largest drop in that index since January 1951. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Leadership Academy Applications Are Now Open Applications for the National Corn Growers Association’s Leadership Academy Class are now open. The program is designed to bring together a diverse group of grower-leaders who want to improve their ability to serve their state organizations, enhance their communication skills, and understand the important role of advocacy – all to advance the priorities of the nation’s corn growers and build the next generation of industry leaders. Through the program, NCGA members are empowered to pursue their leadership journey and utilize their skills to inspire others to act. The 2023-2024 class will meet in St. Louis, Missouri from August 7-9, for sessions on leadership, communication, and personal branding. The class then comes together in Washington, D.C., from January 22-24, 2024, for advocacy training. NCGA puts on the program with help from sponsors like UPL and FMC. First launched in 2019, the NCGA Leadership Academy has become the organization’s primary leadership development tool. *********************************************************************************** Concerns Remain at West Coast Ports Agricultural exporters are paying close attention to contract negotiations at the nation’s West Coast ports. The Pacific Maritime Association is accusing workers of deliberately slowing down operations. The union says that’s not happening. The association says terminal operations at the Port of Seattle halted over the weekend. Capital Press says International Longshore and Warehouse Union President Willie Adams points out that the West Coast ports are open while negotiations continue. Over 22,000 workers at 29 ports on the West Coast are working without a contract and have done so since July 1, 2022, and negotiations have lasted 13 months. During the last lengthy negotiations as recently as 2015, farm goods were delayed in getting shipped out. “We aren’t hearing about delays yet,” says Washington Potato Commission director of government affairs Matt Harris. “That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it would potentially disrupt the export growth that we’re trying to achieve.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Stocks Rise Higher in June The Economic Research Service issued its June Oil Crops Outlook that predicted higher soybean ending stocks for the month. A higher carryover raised the 2023-2024 U.S. soybean ending stocks forecast by 15 million bushels to 350 million bushels. The increase in expected carryover stocks is due to a reduced 2022-2023 soybean export forecast from 2.01 billion bushels to two billion bushels on strong foreign competition. Despite an unchanged soybean crush volume in June, the higher extraction rates increased U.S. soybean meal supply. With higher supply and lower domestic demand, soybean meal exports for the 2022-2023 marketing year increased this month by 0.2 million short tons to 14 million short tons. The 2023-2024 global soybean ending stocks are estimated higher this month at 123.3 million metric tons on increased carryover from 2022-2023 and reduced crush in Argentina. Reduced soybean meal supplies in Argentina are partially offset by Brazil’s higher soybean meal exports.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release its May report of producer prices at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. from the Energy Department. Many will tune in at 1 p.m. to see if the Federal Reserve raises the federal funds rate target or not, followed by a press conference for Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. The Environmental Protection Agency was supposed to announce final renewable volume obligations for biofuels Wednesday, but postponed the deadline one week to June 21. Weather remains the main attraction for grain traders. Weather A disturbance moving along an old frontal boundary will continue to create widespread areas of showers and thunderstorms from the southeastern Plains through the Southeast on Wednesday. Conditions favor some strong thunderstorms with potential for significant severe weather. All hazards are possible out of these storms. Meanwhile, another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies with promises for heavier rain in dry parts of Alberta. The front to that system will move into Montana with scattered showers later in the day.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |
Farm Credit System Issues Ag Economic and Outlook Report The Farm Credit Administration board received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting agriculture recently. According to the report, inflation remains elevated in certain sectors of the economy despite interest rate hikes and supply chain improvements. For agriculture, drought has declined substantially across the western half of the country, and good spring weather conditions sped up planting progress for many crops. For several states in the Great Plains and Southwest, drought conditions will need to continue to be monitored. With strong prospects for large crops and the building of grain stocks in 2023, prices have weakened. While many input costs also have fallen, crop producers are likely facing tighter margins this year. Because of rising interest rates and seasonal lending fluctuations, Farm Credit System growth was slower in the first quarter of 2023 than it was for the same quarter the previous three years. The loan portfolio continued to perform well, but nonperforming assets increased. Despite the increase, the overall level of nonperforming assets remained low, at 0.53 percent of loans outstanding and other property owned. *********************************************************************************** Safe American Food Exports Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Safe American Food Exports Act. The legislation would codify USDA’s role in negotiating regionalization agreements that allow livestock, poultry, and other animal products from unaffected areas of the country to continue to be safely exported in the event of an animal disease outbreak. Although USDA already works with the U.S. Trade Representative to develop the agreements, the legislation explicitly expresses congressional support for establishing regionalization agreements and promoting robust agricultural trade policies before any animal disease impacts the nation. Representative Randy Feenstra, an Iowa Republican, and Jimmy Panetta, A California Democrat, introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives. Feenstra says, “Like every producer fears, foreign animal disease can devastate flocks and herds, preventing our farmers from selling their high-quality product on the global market.” Feenstra says his bill ensures a disease outbreak in one part of the country does not impact other regions' ability to produce and export agricultural goods. *********************************************************************************** Canada Canola Council Supports Canada Joining USMCA Dispute Settlement The Canola Council of Canada supports the Government of Canada in joining the dispute settlement consultation with Mexico on agricultural biotechnology. The consultation was initiated by the United States under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and Canada joined today as a third party. There have been challenges to regulatory predictability in Mexico over the last few years, according to Canola Council. Regulatory approaches not grounded in sound science risk stifling access to innovations that farmers need to contribute to food security challenges, address climate-related production issues, and remain competitive and profitable. Canola Council of Canada President Jim Everson says, “It is essential that Canada's trading partners support and implement science-based regulatory systems.” Everson says more formal and substantive assurance is required to provide clarity and certainty about the regulatory approach moving forward. Mexico is a leading and valued market for Canadian canola and is Canada's largest agri-food export to that country, valued at $1.6 billion in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Welcomes 2023 Tribal College Fellows to Washington, D.C. The Department of Agriculture Monday welcomed five faculty and staff from tribal colleges and universities and one state land-grant university to learn about USDA. The visitors are learning about research opportunities, programs, and services through The Tribal Fellowship. The program is part of USDA’s commitment to remove barriers to service for tribal nations. The Tribal Fellowship Program is administered by USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Tribal colleges are anchors in their communities, and these fellowships enhance the collaborations between tribal nations and USDA." The fellows will participate in intensive cross-training with USDA program leaders across the Department to identify areas for collaboration. At a later date, select fellows will spend a week at a USDA Agricultural Research Service research facility to collaborate on research between the tribal colleges and USDA. On their return home, the fellows can share their insights and experiences with students and colleagues in their communities. *********************************************************************************** Rural Social Connections Draw Healthcare Professionals The availability of healthcare professionals in rural areas lags that of urban areas, partly because of difficulties in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. USDA's Economic Research Service reports that when choosing rural locations to practice, healthcare professionals most often cite social aspects, such as the friendliness of the town, as an important factor in their decision. Similar factors come into play when these professionals choose to stay in their rural small towns. Other factors that reflect the importance of social relationships included being a good place to raise a family, having relatives or friends living nearby, familiarity with the area, the quality of professional contacts, and if the professional's family was settled in the town. Other factors, such as the quality of the medical community, the quality of schools, and opportunities for professional growth, also were cited as important. USDA compiled the data for its Healthcare Professionals Seek Social Connections When Moving to Rural Towns publication. *********************************************************************************** Demand Pushing Gas Prices Higher After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline rebounded, rising 5.6 cents from a week ago to $3.57 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The good news has continued for average diesel prices, which again fell last week to their lowest since early 2022, helping to relieve some pressure on hard-hit consumers of diesel.” The national average diesel price fell 1.6 cents in the last week and stands at $3.87 per gallon. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.91 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.17 per gallon. While oil prices had rallied last week on OPEC+’s production cuts announced for 2024 and Saudi Arabia’s July cut of 1 million barrels, markets are still jittery over the potential for more rate hikes amidst stubborn inflation and banking sector challenges. In addition, Goldman Sachs cut its price forecast for crude by nearly ten percent as it sees Russian supply recovering.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and the Federal Reserve will begin its two-day meeting with a rate announcement due out Wednesday at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest forecasts and will consider USDA's latest crop ratings from Monday afternoon. Weather A system wrapped up in the Great Lakes will bring scattered showers to some areas that missed out over the weekend on Tuesday. The front to that system has settled across the South, which will remain active today, potentially with more severe weather and heavy rainfall.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |
Despite WOTUS Loss at Supreme Court, EPA Continues Fight for Biden Rule LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Despite a significant loss in the Supreme Court that likely will require the EPA to rewrite the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule, the agency on Monday filed an appeal seeking review of a preliminary injunction against the rule in 24 states. The Supreme Court on May 26 sided with Michael and Chantell Sackett in their ongoing wetlands battle with the EPA. In particular, the court ruled the agency has no legal basis to use the so-called significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The significant-nexus test is the backbone of the Biden administration's rule, meaning the administration likely has no choice but to withdraw and rewrite the rule. On the same day as the court's ruling, the Biden administration asked for and received an extension to June 29 of a court deadline in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. That court issued a preliminary injunction, stopping the EPA from enforcing the rule in 24 states. On Monday, the EPA filed an appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in St. Louis, Missouri, asking for review of the preliminary injunction. So far, the Biden administration has given no indication of its intentions with the WOTUS rule. That injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the significant-nexus test used by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was illegal. EPA Administrator Michael Regan issued a statement following the court's ruling, saying in part the decision "erodes longstanding clean water protections." Regan added, "The Biden-Harris administration has worked to establish a durable definition of 'waters of the United States' that safeguards our nation's waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people's health while providing the clarity and certainty that farmers, ranchers, and landowners deserve. These goals will continue to guide the agency forward as we carefully review the Supreme Court decision and consider next steps." The Sackett case is considered by many experts to be a turning point in determining the reach of the Clean Water Act. Writing the majority opinion in the May 26 ruling, Justice Samuel Alito said the CWA's reach was far narrower than EPA and the Corps of Engineers have interpreted for years. "The EPA, however, offers only a passing attempt to square its interpretation with the text and its 'significant nexus' theory is particularly implausible," Alito wrote. He said the definition of waters of the U.S. is more limited. "And, in any event, the CWA never mentions the 'significant nexus' test, so the EPA has no statutory basis to impose it," Alito stated. The Sacketts have been battling EPA since 2007 for the right to build on land the agency has deemed to be a wetland. Their property sits on a lakefront and they've argued that there is no surface connection between the lake and their land.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |
USDA Releases June WASDE Report USDA Friday released the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The forecast includes a decline in exports for corn and soybeans. The 2023/24 U.S. corn outlook is little changed from last month with increases to both beginning and ending stocks. Corn area and yield forecasts are unchanged. The season-average farm price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. This month’s U.S. soybean supply and use projections include higher beginning and ending stocks. Higher beginning stocks reflect reduced exports for 2022/23, down 15 million bushels to 2.0 billion based on lower-than-expected shipments in May and competition from South America. The soybean price is forecast at $12.10 per bushel, unchanged from last month. The outlook for wheat this month projects larger supplies, unchanged domestic use and exports, and higher stocks. The 2023/24 season-average farm price is lowered $0.30 per bushel to $7.70 on larger U.S. and foreign wheat supplies. *********************************************************************************** Commodity Groups Oppose OFF Act A coalition of 18 commodity groups recently voiced opposition to the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming, or OFF Act, in a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. If enacted, the groups say the legislation would substantially undermine their members’ ability to promote U.S. agriculture- and natural resource-based commodity products. The Trade Associations represent American farmers, ranchers, foresters, and processors of raw materials. The letter states, “Each of these industries plays a critical and irreplaceable role in the U.S. economy through the production of food, fiber, and other essential goods—all while creating jobs, stewarding resources, and supporting local communities across the country.” Proponents of the bill argue this legislation would increase transparency and close perceived loopholes in the statutes enabling checkoff programs. However, the commodity groups charge, “The bill would not create any new checks and balances to ensure compliance and fairness.” The groups urge lawmakers to oppose the legislation. *********************************************************************************** New USDA Tool Available for Small Businesses A new tool from the Department of Agriculture seeks to help industry and small disadvantaged entities identify potential opportunities for selling their products and services to the department. USDA's Procurement Forecast lists the types of anticipated solicitations that small businesses, small, disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, HUBZone businesses, service-disabled veterans, and other businesses may be able to participate in contracts with USDA, or through subcontracting opportunities. USDA has eleven organizations that issue solicitations for anticipated purchases tied to the procurement forecast. Using the tool, interested parties can search USDA's procurement forecasts, filter the results, manipulate the display and download the results. Currently, forecast data for Fiscal years 2023 to 2025 is available. The effort complies with the Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988, which amended the Small Business Act to place new emphasis on acquisition planning. The law requires agencies to compile and make available small business contracting opportunities. To learn more, visit usda.gov/procurement-forecast. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Dairy Industry Grants The U.S. Department of Agriculture last week announced $23 million in grant funding for the dairy industry. The funding is available to support processing capacity expansion, on-farm improvements, and technical assistance services to producers through the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives provide valuable technical assistance and subgrants to dairy farmers and businesses across their regions, supporting them with business plan development, marketing, and branding, as well as increasing access to innovative production and processing techniques to support the development of value-added products. The funds will be awarded noncompetitively to the current initiatives at the California State University Fresno, the University of Tennessee, Vermont Agency of Agriculture - Food & Markets, and the University of Wisconsin. Through the Request for Applications, the initiatives will have an opportunity to submit proposals for this year’s funding. Dairy farmers and businesses interested in the program must contact the appropriate initiative to be considered for direct technical assistance or a subaward. *********************************************************************************** Survey Details Farmland Ownership in Iowa As the average age of Iowa's farmland owners continues to rise, other trends in landownership have begun to emerge. According to an Iowa State University study, 58 percent of Iowa's farmland is now leased out, a significant increase from the last time the same study was conducted in 2017. An Iowa State researcher says, “This represents a relative increase of roughly one million acres over five years, which is quite significant.” Conducted by Iowa State since the 1940s, the Iowa Farmland Ownership and Tenure Survey--completed every five years--focuses on forms of ownership, tenancy and transfer of farmland in Iowa, and characteristics of landowners. Farmland leases also increasingly favor cash rent over crop sharing and owner-operating arrangements. In 2017, 82 percent of leased farmland was cash rented, but cash rent, predominantly fixed-cash rental contracts, now account for 87 percent of leased land. The survey found that the average age of Iowa's farmland owners is still increasing. *********************************************************************************** SNAP Online Purchasing Now Available in All 50 States Online purchasing using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits is now available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The expansion represents a major milestone in the history of SNAP and continues to provide greater convenience and access to healthy food options for tens of millions of Americans. Alaska recently became 50th state to join the steady expansion since USDA first launched SNAP online purchasing four years ago as a pilot in New York. The availability of online purchasing in Alaska is an important step in promoting equity and access to food in remote and rural areas. The Department of Agriculture has been expanding the SNAP online purchasing pilot by approving and adding additional retailers. Since March 2020, 208 additional retailer chains have joined the program, representing thousands of actual stores. USDA’s Stacy Dean says, “Expanding the diversity and reach of SNAP online shopping helps advance our goal of modernizing SNAP and providing better access to healthy, safe, affordable foods.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Rain Systems, Grain Mergers and Trade Disputes OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of June 11. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather systems get active: A persistent upper-level ridge of high pressure has dominated Canada for quite some time now, putting a lid on the jet stream and directing it northward. That has kept conditions rather stagnant for the last several weeks, focusing rain into the Plains states instead of the Corn Belt. DTN meteorologists expect that ridge to fall apart, creating a more "active" weather pattern that should gin up thunderstorms across more of the U.S. in the coming weeks. 2. Brazil corn crop in crosshairs: USDA raised Brazil's current corn production expectations by 2 million metric tons in its June 9 report. But cool weather and frost potential looms, potentially taming those yield increases. We'll keep an eye on temperatures and weather reports from that country. 3. Grain mergers: We'll be continuing to follow the commentary around the proposed merger of grain giants Viterra and Bunge. Already the Wheat Growers Association in Canada has expressed concern over the grain sourcing share the combined company would have. 4. Cattle under stress: Whether hot and dry, or torrential storms, the coming weather patterns are adding to livestock stress. Watch for our coverage on what to look for, and what to do, if conditions get tough on your herd. 5. Reports to watch: This week sees a number of market-critical commodity and economic reports that we'll either be reporting on directly or including in our commentary and analysis through the week. Monday we'll have USDA's weekly grain export inspections and the Crop Progress report. Tuesday sees the U.S. consumer price index for May announced at 7:30 a.m. CDT, and the Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting. Wednesday we'll have the U.S. producer prices for May, the Energy Department's weekly inventory and a Fed rate announcement at 1 p.m. CDT. Thursday's news is packed with government reports: The USDA weekly export sales report, weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales and another update of U.S. Drought Monitor -- all at 7:30 a.m. U.S. industrial production rings in at 8:15 a.m., followed by U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. and the USDA Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook at 2 p.m. All times CDT. Friday sees that latest U.S. index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will pay close attention to observed rainfall amounts, coverage and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Outside markets will be aware of the Federal Reserve's next rate announcement on Wednesday. Weather A system that went through over the weekend is wrapping up in the Great Lakes Monday where showers are dwindling but remaining possible. The front to the system has settled across the South where showers and thunderstorms will be active throughout the day, including chances for severe weather and heavy rainfall. Cooler temperatures have settled into much of the country, but it is warmer in the Canadian Prairies again.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |
Clean Fuels, RFS Stakeholders Send Letter to President Biden on RFS BBD Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America and 75 industry stakeholders delivered a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday. The letter urges the president to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency substantially increases the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023, 2024 and 2025. The letter points out that EPA's proposed volumes fall far below the industry's current production and, if finalized, would undermine investments in the industry's expansion. EPA is expected to finalize the RFS volumes by June 14. The letter states, "The low volumes threaten the ability of new market sectors, like marine and aviation, to decarbonize in the near term." Clean Fuels was joined in the letter by several national industry associations and their members, including American Soybean Association, 22 state soybean associations, Diesel Technology Forum, National Energy and Fuels Institute, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Emissions-Reducing Benefits of E15 A new study from the University of California – Riverside shows that the E15 ethanol blend provides notable emissions reductions compared to California's regular reformulated gasoline. The Renewable Fuels Association hailed the report as proof of the value of E15 for The Golden State, which has yet to allow the E15 blend to be used. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, “This new study shows what we've been arguing all along--that E15 offers emissions benefits that would help meet environmental goals in California.” According to the study, emissions of total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide all showed either marginally or statistically significant reductions for E15 compared to regular California gasoline. In addition, particulate matter and solid particle number emissions dropped substantially with E15, and E15 showed lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings when compared to E10. Nitrogen oxide emissions when using E15 showed marginal reductions in many cases, but the changes in Nitrogen oxide emissions were not statistically significant. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Approves Comprehensive Farm Bill Recommendations The National Milk Producers Federation this week approved a suite of farm bill policy priorities covering the commodities, conservation, trade, and nutrition titles. In the Commodities title, NMPF seeks to build on its successes in the last farm bill to strengthen the dairy safety net and provide producers with access to a range of risk management tools. NMPF’s board voted to support continuing the Dairy Margin Coverage safety net while updating the program’s production history calculation. NMPF seeks farm bill language to direct USDA to conduct mandatory plant cost studies every two years to provide better data to inform future make allowance reviews. This would complement the near-term make allowance update NMPF is pursuing through its Federal Milk Marketing Order initiative via the USDA hearing process announced last week. Similarly, the board also pursues restoring the previous “higher of” Class I mover in the most expeditious manner possible, either administratively via the FMMO process or legislatively through the farm bill, in which the mover was last changed in 2018. *********************************************************************************** R-CALF Opposes Paraguayan Beef Import Proposal In comments submitted to the Department of Agriculture, R-CALF USA requested the agency immediately withdraw its proposal to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. Historically, the United States has not engaged in trade of beef from Paraguay because APHIS has considered Paraguay to be a country affected with foot-and-mouth disease. The government of Paraguay has requested that the U.S. allow fresh Paraguayan beef to be imported into the United States. In response to this request, APHIS conducted a risk analysis, with the most recent on-site visit to Paraguay being nearly ten years ago, in 2014. The USDA has proposed a rule seeking to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. In its comments, R-CALF USA urged APHIS to withdraw its proposed rule on the grounds that it will cause an unnecessary and avoidable risk of introducing FMD into the United States, and subject U.S. consumers to beef from cattle that were not raised in compliance with United States' more stringent production standards. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Farm Bureau Working with SpaceX to Expand Broadband Nebraska Farm Bureau is working with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand broadband access in the state. Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, says, “We are excited to work with Starlink to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas in Nebraska that are underserved.” Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX. Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet capable of streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more to users worldwide. While the carriers, providers, and telecoms continue to grapple with federal and state monies to get quality broadband to rural areas of the country, Starlink and NEFB thought it was important to take this broadband service issue into our own hands and deliver the connectivity to our farm, ranch, and rural members in a way that avoids the regulatory hoops and the high cost of getting fiber to the "last mile.” Nebraska Farm Bureau members can take advantage of this new member benefit by visiting the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at nefb.org. *********************************************************************************** United States Serves up Large Chunks of Cheese to Top Destinations In 2022, the United States exported more than 450,000 metric tons of cheese, valued at approximately $2.3 billion. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that top export markets include Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Canada. U.S. cheese is a mainstay among imported cheeses in these countries. In 2022, U.S. cheese accounted for nearly one-fifth of cheese imported by Canada and Japan by value and nearly one-fourth of cheese imported by Australia. More than 43 percent of cheese shipped to South Korea originated from the United States. U.S. cheese dominates the import market in Mexico, with 87 percent of Mexico's cheese imports coming from the United States in 2022. Altogether, these five countries have accounted for nearly two-thirds of U.S. cheese exports since 2019, and U.S. cheese constitutes about a third of the value of all cheese imported by these five markets combined. Free trade agreements have partially supported U.S. cheese exports to each of these markets, including the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports for June are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday with coverage on DTN following the reports. DTN's WASDE webinar starts at 12:30 p.m. The latest weather forecasts continue to capture attention with much of the Midwest in dire need of rain after Thursday's Drought Monitor showed worsening conditions. Weather Isolated showers will be possible yet again for the Plains on Friday, mostly due to a stalled front from north to southeast in the region. But a cold front is sweeping into the Northern Plains and the combination of the two fronts should give rise to more widespread showers there through Friday night.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Moves Out of Committee The Committee on Education and the Workforce this week voted to advance a bill restoring whole milk in schools. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023 highlights milk's health benefits and nutrients to young Americans, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, milk is a source of three out of four under-consumed nutrients – calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. The bill would allow for unflavored and flavored whole milk to be offered in school cafeterias. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican and Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, says, “For too long, milk has been demonized, depriving a generation of students of 13 essential nutrients that are key to their overall health and academic success.” *********************************************************************************** NPPC Speaks Up on Policy Priorities at World Pork Expo The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel this week at the 2023 World Pork Expo. NPPC board officers and experts discussed the pork industry’s current priorities vital to protecting producers’ livelihoods and ensuring pork production remains a pillar of the U.S. economy. NPPC President Scott Hays says, “Advocating for reasonable public policy, expanding exports, protecting our animals from foreign animal diseases and defending efforts to restrict what we do all help keep our farms successful.” Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing the agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are some of the top public-policy issues for pork producers. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys commented that recent policy successes and disappointments will impact producers for years to come. With the Supreme Court’s decision upholding California Proposition 12, another NPPC priority is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to ensure a smooth transition for farmers and consumers who want to continue buying pork at California grocery stores and restaurants. *********************************************************************************** Office of Small Farms Establishment Act Introduced in House and Senate New legislation introduced this week would increase support for farmers, ranchers, and foresters with small-acreage operations across the country. The Office of Small Farms Establishment Act would create a new office within USDA. The office would ensure that small-acreage operations have equitable access to the critical federal programs that provide farm loans, conservation funding, and crop insurance. New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker introduced the bill in the Senate, and Democrat Representatives Marilyn Strickland of Washington, Alma Adams of North Caroline and Jim McGovern introduced the bill in the House. Small farms are essential to local and regional food supply chains, bolstering rural economic vitality, food security, and community resilience, according to the lawmakers. Although they only cover eight percent of agricultural land, they are responsible for 20 percent of all agricultural sales. American Farmland Trust supports the legislation, as a spokesperson for the organization says, “This bill is really about ensuring equitable access to the full range of essential support” for farmers. *********************************************************************************** Avian Flu Losses in 2022 Impact on Consumer Prices USDA’s Economic Research Service reports frozen wholesale turkey breast prices climbed abruptly in response to the 2022 avian flu outbreak. Before the outbreak started in February 2022, both frozen whole bird and wholesale turkey breast prices had been increasing gradually. Cumulative losses because of avian flu surpassed seven million turkeys, and breast prices peaked at $2.98 per pound in the week ending October 7, 2022. Prices remained elevated for the remainder of the year. Once reports of new outbreaks slowed in mid-December 2022, whole turkey hen prices leveled off. At the same time, breast prices declined, averaging $2.34 per pound in the week ending April 28, 2023. This is $0.32 higher than a similar week in 2022, but down $0.64 from the peak price last year. Divergence in prices between frozen turkey breast meat and whole bird prices is, in part, explained by seasonality. Demand for whole birds is much more seasonal than wholesale demand for turkey breast meat. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Names Gregg Doud New President and CEO The National Milk Producers Federation's Board of Directors unanimously voted to name Gregg Doud as its next president and CEO. Doud will follow Jim Mulhern, who announced his retirement at the end of the year earlier this week. NMPF board chairman Randy Mooney says, “Dairy farmers across the nation are pleased to endorse a true champion of agriculture, someone who both understands the hard work we do and the opportunities and challenges we face both here and abroad.” Doud has served in numerous leadership roles in trade associations and government work in his more than 30-year career in agricultural policy and economics, most recently at Aimpoint Research. From 2018 to 2021, he served as Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Office of the Trade Representative. Doud will begin official work at NMPF in September as its chief operating officer before assuming the role of president and CEO upon Mulhern’s retirement. *********************************************************************************** Teachers Share FFA and Agricultural Opportunities Teachers around the country are sharing the word about agriculture and agricultural education. More than 70 agricultural education teachers are sharing the message of agriculture as part of the National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA program. The program began in 2016 and provides teachers with the tools to share information about FFA and agricultural education with their communities. Teachers selected for the program receive intensive training in June and July to learn and collaborate on educational resources. Similar to last year, this year’s training will be virtual. Throughout the year, the ambassadors will present workshops and work with teachers nationwide to brainstorm and share ideas. The ambassadors will also serve as a voice of the organization to teachers. FFA senior educational consultant Sarah Dickinson says, “Through this program, we equip teachers with the tools they need to be successful in not only developing future leaders but also in telling their stories.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is backing its way westward through the Corn Belt with a string of showers that continues on Thursday. Some locally heavy amounts remain possible from that. A cold front that is sagging through the Canadian Prairies will be another area of isolated showers into Montana. Parts of the Southern Plains may also see some isolated showers as well. Cooler temperatures continue to settle into the Midwest, easing drought stress.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Sours as Crop Prices Decline Producer sentiment fell to its weakest reading since July 2022, as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index declined 19 points to 104 in May. This month's weak sentiment reading was fueled by declines in both of the barometer’s sub-indices. The Index of Future Expectations declined 22 points to 98, while the Index of Current Conditions fell 13 points below a month earlier to 116. Crop price weakness helped trigger the sentiment decline. Eastern Corn Belt fall delivery bids for corn fell over $0.50 per bushel, down ten percent, and soybean bids declined over $1.00 per bushel, down eight percent. Nearly half of producers feel that the most important aspect of new Farm Bill legislation will be the Crop Insurance Title, while a fourth of producers say the Commodity Title will be the most important. Almost half of corn and soybean producers expect Congress to raise PLC reference prices for both crops when a new Farm Bill becomes law. *********************************************************************************** Barchart Releases 2023 Crop Production and Yield Estimates Barchart Tuesday released their initial 2023 crop production and yield forecasts for U.S. corn and soybeans. The report indicates a cutback to USDA’s projected figures from the May 12 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The Barchart forecast calls for 15 billion bushels of corn production, compared to USDA’s 15.3 billion. Corn yield is projected at 177.9 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 181.5. Soybean production is forecasted at 4.4 billion bushels, compared to USDA’s 3.5 billion. Soybean yield is projected by Barchart at 50.6 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 52 bushels per acre. Barchart provides market data and services to the global financial, media, and commodity industries. Barchart’s Crop Production and Yield Forecasts provide users with decision-making support for crop marketing and ingredient purchasing ahead of traditional forecasts from the USDA. Bi-weekly crop production forecasts are available to the public for free, while enterprise data and cmdtyView Pro clients have access to daily forecast updates. *********************************************************************************** Research: CRP is Regionally Concentrated New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds the Conservation Reserve Program is regionally concentrated. The Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, covered 22 million acres of environmentally sensitive land at the end of fiscal year 2022, with an annual budget of roughly $1.8 billion. This made CRP the USDA's largest single conservation program in terms of spending in FY 2022. Enrollees receive annual and other payments for taking eligible land out of production for at least ten years. Program acreage tends to be concentrated on marginally productive cropland that is susceptible to erosion by wind or rainfall. A large share of CRP land ranges from Texas to Montana across the Great Plains, where rainfall is limited, and much of the land is subject to potentially severe wind erosion. Smaller concentrations of CRP land are found in eastern Washington, southern Iowa, northern Missouri, the Mississippi Delta, southeastern Idaho, and northwestern Utah. *********************************************************************************** Rapid Snowmelt Results in Higher Missouri River Runoff Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1. *********************************************************************************** Corteva, USAID, Announce Support for Ukrainian Farmers Corteva and the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, recently announced a new collaboration to support Ukrainian farmers. Through the collaboration, USAID and Corteva Agriscience will advance the shared goals of increasing farmer access to crop inputs, financing, and post-harvest storage. A Corteva spokesperson says, “Ukrainian farmers are entering this planting season facing immense challenges.” Corteva Agriscience, which previously announced its decision to withdraw from Russia, is increasing its production of hybrid corn and sunflower seeds in the region by 30 percent over the next five years. The effort will help ensure a stable supply of seeds for Ukrainian farmers. Corteva is also increasing Ukrainian farmer access to the latest crop protection technologies, agronomic support, and financing tools - all key components required to plant a high-yielding, profitable crop. USAID is advancing the $100 million Agriculture Resilience Initiative (AGRI) - Ukraine to bolster Ukrainian agriculture exports and to help alleviate the global food security crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. *********************************************************************************** Mulhern to Retire as NMPF President and CEO National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of this year. Mulhern will conclude a decade of service leading the organization and capping a 45-year career in U.S. agricultural and dairy policy. Mulhern says, "Directing the policy efforts of the nation's dairy farmers and their cooperatives has been the highlight of my professional career." Mulhern began as President and CEO in 2013 and guided NMPF through two completed farm bills, the COVID-19 crisis, and an ever-quickening pace of change in the industry. After coming to Washington to work on Capitol Hill in 1982, he began his first stint with NMPF in 1985, directing the organization's government affairs activities and shaping NMPF's strategy in the face of earlier farm crises. The topic of naming a new top executive at NMPF will be discussed at NMPF’s Board Meeting this week in Arlington, VA.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the trade deficit for April at 7:30 a.m. CDT and provide export data that will be released by USDA later Wednesday morning. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front continues to push south and west through the Midwest on Wednesday, which is bringing in some cooler air into the region from Canada. It is also bringing some isolated showers on the western half of the front, which are sorely needed but not nearly enough. Additional showers and thunderstorms will move again through the Prairies and Plains to the Gulf Coast as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |
USDA Kicks Off Agribusiness Trade Mission to Japan USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Undersecretary Alexis Taylor Monday launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan. The U.S. delegation includes representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. Taylor says, "As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States." Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. Throughout the week, USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. The trade mission itinerary also includes meetings with Japanese and local government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities. *********************************************************************************** AFT Releases White Papers Detailing Farm Bill Recommendations American Farmland Trust Monday released two new white papers that further illustrate its priorities to increase adoption of conservation practices in the next Farm Bill. The priorities include the creation of a federal match to help states and Tribes build up their soil health programs, and increased support for farmer-to-farmer education to accelerate adoption of conservation practices. AFT Policy Director Tim Fink says, “AFT’s is working this Farm Bill to keep land in farming, keep farmers on the land, and to help farmers adopt sound farming practices.” Creating a Federal Match for State and Tribal Soil Health Programs in the Next Farm Bill urges Congress to build up locally-led programs that supplement and fill gaps in NRCS conservation support. Improving On and Increasing Access to Conservation Programs in the Next Farm Bill focuses on how programs can continue their work supporting voluntary, locally-led conservation while ensuring equitable access for farmers. AFT also recommends Congress establish an Office of Small Farms at USDA to support lower-acreage producers. *********************************************************************************** Noble Research Institute Launches Regenerative Ranch Management Program Noble Research Institute Monday announced the launch of its Essentials of Regenerative Ranching program. The effort is designed to help ranchers monitor and improve the health of their land, livestock and livelihood. Essentials provides producers with practical tools, hands-on experience and guidance to break free from the cycle of high inputs and low returns. Farmers and ranchers navigate uncertainty from weather, fluctuating market prices and skyrocketing inputs. Many producers seek new skills and tools that offer greater control and reduce operational uncertainty. While regenerative ranching can help mitigate or avoid some of these issues altogether, ranchers may struggle to find reliable information about implementation or fail to receive support needed for lasting success. In response, Noble Research Institute designed Essentials of Regenerative Ranching to offer farmers and ranchers guidance in using core principles and proven monitoring methods. The first in-person training will be offered July 11-12, 2023, at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. Registration is open now at www.noble.org/. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Attending Washington Leadership Conference For more than 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged in our nation's capital each summer to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. National FFA Organization members are in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the National FFA Organization's Washington Leadership Conference. The more than 50-year tradition brings thousands of FFA members to Washington, D.C., to interact with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects. More than 2,000 FFA members from throughout the country are expected to attend the 2023 conference. FFA members will spend the week under the guidance of agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff. FFA members will also have the unique opportunity to participate in congressional visits with legislators from their states during the week. Members can share concerns and challenges from their communities and discuss agricultural-related legislation. *********************************************************************************** “Natural” Labeled Foods Account for 16% of Consumer Spending New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows foods labeled “natural” accounted for slightly more than 16 percent of consumer retail food purchases in 2018. USDA and the Food and Drug Administration require producers to adhere to specific standards or processes to use certain label claims, such as USDA Organic. The “natural” claim, however, has minimal requirements and using the claim on a food product’s packaging does not require that the product provide any health or environmental benefits. Regulatory agencies treat the claim as meaning nothing artificial was added, and the product was minimally processed. Even so, consumers sometimes attribute benefits to products labeled "natural," research studies show. The share of products labeled "natural" varies by food category. The share of spending on "natural" products in 2018 was highest for dairy products, at 27.7 percent, and lowest for fruits and vegetables, at 5.9 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. *********************************************************************************** OPEC Could Derail Fuel Price Declines With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-term Energy Outlook is due out Tuesday with interest in its estimates of world oil supply and demand after OPEC decided to cut production by one million barrels a day Sunday. There are no other significant reports Tuesday, but traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is slipping south through the Midwest on Tuesday, with part of it pushing southwestward toward the Plains. The front will be somewhat active with some isolated showers developing along it. Isolated to scattered showers will develop in the Southern Plains to the Gulf Coast as well as the Canadian Prairies.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |
USTR to Initiate USMCA Dispute Settlement with Mexico The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. “Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. “The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Action Plan to Modernize FMMOs The National Milk Producers Federation applauds USDA for proposing its “Action Plan” for a national hearing based on NMPF’s proposal to modernize Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The federation looks forward to the next phase of creating a federal order system that better reflects today’s market conditions and dairy producer needs. “We’re grateful USDA recognizes the comprehensive nature of our proposal and are looking forward to it being considered in full because the whole of our plan adds up to more than the sum of its parts,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “We held more than 150 meetings and wide consultation across dairy producers and the entire industry in coming up with our plan.” The agency says the action plan may include a tentative hearing start date of August 23, 2023. The USDA received the federation’s formal proposal to amend the pricing provisions of all 11 FMMOs on May 2. *********************************************************************************** USB CEO Ruhland Stepping Down Polly Ruhland, CEO of the United Soybean Board, will leave her position effective December 31, 2023. Ruhland has led the organization for six years and played a pivotal role in driving significant organizational changes and setting a foundation for USB’s future. “Polly has been a visionary leader for USB during a very transformative time,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair. “A true servant-leader, her biggest contribution and lasting legacy is building a first-class staff that we can rely on.” During the past six years, USB embarked on a transformative journey marked by numerous accomplishments and milestones, including developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan. The plan also reinforced USB’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and market development. Kaiser will form a search committee to identify a new Chief Executive Officer. The committee will begin the search after USB’s July board meeting to have a new CEO in place by the end of 2023. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Chair Comments on Debt Agreement Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was pleased that the Senate voted to pass the bipartisan bill to avoid a debt default, calling it critical for our economy and families. “I’m pleased this agreement protects the important steps that we’ve taken over the last two years to rebuild America, bring jobs home, lower the costs of health care, and tackle the climate crisis,” Stabenow says. Stabenow also says she’s deeply disappointed by the changes that were agreed to in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “As the Ag, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair, I intend to produce a bipartisan farm bill that protects critical nutrition and food assistance programs for all Americans,” she said. “And as far as I’m concerned, the work requirements issue is settled for this Congress.” She intends to in no way further erode the dignity of Americans who need roughly $6 a day to buy food. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Oppose Shortsighted Infant Formula Legislation The National Milk Producers Federation strongly opposes legislation introduced in both chambers of Congress that would increase U.S. vulnerability to infant formula supply disruptions. The bill would increase U.S. reliance on imported formula and formula inputs. It would also unilaterally and permanently remove tariffs and tariff rate quotas on infant formula and infant formula base powder, resulting in lost jobs and foreign dependence. “This bill puts in place new one-way street trade conditions that would harm dairy farmers, cooperatives, and processors,” says Jim Mulhern, NMPF president and CEO. “We vehemently object to putting unilateral import expansion on the backs of U.S. dairy farmers.” The organization says the bill is a misguided response to the dire shortages of infant formula that occurred last year after a temporary production crisis at a large U.S. formula manufacturing plant. The FDA says formula stocking levels are higher than those seen before last year’s shortage. *********************************************************************************** Legislators Oppose Discriminatory Brazilian Tariffs on Ethanol A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. “We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, El Nino and Debt Next Steps 1. WASDE week again: Friday will see the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report from USDA. We'll share expectations in our preview story Wednesday. As for the report itself, our initial report flash posts after 11 a.m. CDT, with updates through the morning. 2. El Nino takes hold: The shift from La Nina to El Nino, something DTN meteorologists have talked about since early winter, appears to be moving along. Already we see winners and losers in terms of timely rainfall, a variability that is common with the "Little Boy" pattern. 3. Debt ceiling next steps: The government default may be averted, but there is much yet to learn about federal spending, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) discussions. All this could affect farm bill negotiations going forward. We'll continue to watch and report what we learn as the details eke out. 4. GOP hopefuls: A smattering of potential Republican presidential candidates gathered in Iowa the last few days and on June 3. DTN Policy Editor Chris Clayton will follow up and what was said and what was heard. 5. Reports to watch: We'll have the weekly USDA Crop Progress Report Monday afternoon. Wednesday sees the U.S. trade deficit numbers and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory reports. Thursday USDA releases its weekly export sales, plus the weekly U.S. jobless claims numbers come out and we'll see an update of U.S. Drought Monitor.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and note any news from OPEC's meeting on Sunday. U.S. factory orders are scheduled for 9 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. will include initial crop ratings for soybeans and spring wheat. Weather After a weekend of widespread rainfall across a lot of the Plains and western Midwest, Monday looks to be a quieter day for many areas. There will still be isolated to scattered showers from the Prairies to the Gulf Coast, however, and more frequent for those southern areas. Temperatures remain quite warm for many areas for this time of year.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 2, 2023 |
USDA Lowers 2023 Ag Exports The USDA says America’s agricultural exports in fiscal year 2023 are forecast at $181 billion, down $3.5 billion from the February forecast. The revision is driven by decreases in corn, wheat, beef, and poultry exports. Corn exports are forecast $2.1 billion lower to $14.5 billion on lower unit values and volumes as Brazil is projected to harvest a record second-corn crop. Wheat exports are projected down $900 million to $7.4 billion because of lower volumes and values, as well as increased competition. Soybean exports are projected up $300 million to $32.3 billion on slightly higher volumes. Total livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are expected to decrease by $1.2 billion to $39.3 billion. Declines in beef and poultry exports will more than offset increases in dairy exports. Cotton exports will be $6 billion, up $200 million, as higher volumes more than offset lower unit values. Ethanol exports were unchanged at $3.6 billion. *********************************************************************************** Rising Cost of Carry is Hitting Grain Elevators’ Bottom Lines A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy FARM Excellence Award Nominations Open The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program Excellence Awards are back for a third year. The awards recognize farms and evaluators who demonstrate excellence in the FARM Program. Awards are given in four categories, including Animal Care and Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development, and FARM Evaluator. “We are so proud of the farms that participate in our program areas and our dedicated evaluators,” says Emily Stepp, executive director of the FARM Program. “We believe it’s important to publicly recognize the people that make the FARM Program so successful.” Farms or FARM evaluators can be nominated by fellow dairy farmers, community members, extension, cooperative and processor staff, veterinarians, and themselves. Nominations are open through August 1. Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the respective category area and must be in good standing with the program. Evaluators must be FARM Program certified. More information is at nationaldairyfarm.com. *********************************************************************************** Legislation will strengthen America’s Food Supply Congressman Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin reintroduced the Guaranteeing Robust Agricultural Independence and Nutrition for America (GRAIN) Act. It would place a one-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. After the one-year moratorium, the bill would prevent prime farmland from getting enrolled in the CRP. “Food security is national security, and America needs to be taking the necessary steps to shore up our food supply,” Tiffany says. “We can only have a prosperous future if we allow our nation’s farmers to unleash their full production potential.” He also says the bill came about because the administration expanded the CRP in a “green fantasy” attempting to achieve net-zero emissions. Tiffany’s GRAIN for America Act would not impact farmland that is already a part of the CRP. Additionally, farmers who already have land in the CRP can re-enroll during the moratorium. *********************************************************************************** Reps Push USTR for Actions on Mexico Under the USMCA Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. “Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. “Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence. *********************************************************************************** FFA Hires Equity Executive in Residence The National FFA Organization named Corey Flournoy as the executive in residence for equity, diversity, and inclusion. In the new role, Flournoy will guide the leadership team and national boards in EDI matters. He’ll design, implement, and evaluate an EDI strategy that aligns with the organization’s strategic plan. “We’re excited to have Corey as a part of our team in this role,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. “We want to ensure our current and future members feel welcomed, and FFA is indeed a place for all to feel valued and contribute to our mission. Corey is the right person to help us achieve that goal.” Flournoy is a former FFA member and the first African-American FFA president. He brings over 30 years of experience and leadership in diversity and inclusion programming. “My overall goal is to help us rethink how we talk about and approach EDI,” Flournoy says.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 2, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as nonfarm payrolls and the U.S. unemployment rate for May. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and keep tabs on the effort to raise the debt ceiling. Weather Areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop in the Plains and parts of the western Midwest on Friday. Areas of heavy rain are expected to occur, most likely around Montana and west Texas, which may cause flooding. Temperatures continue to be above normal for most places.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 1, 2023 |
West Coast Ports Losing Business as Negotiations Continue West Coast ports in the U.S. started negotiating a new labor contract just over a year ago. While working without a new contract in place isn’t unheard of, the contract has now been expired for over 10 months. A report from the U.S. Meat Export Federation says the labor uncertainty is having an impact on red meat exports. “There’s a lot of questions and uncertainty surrounding the west coast ports,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Those ports are a vital starting point for a large number of our shipments to Asia.” The Long Beach and LA ports shut down in mid-April and were followed by further disruptions later that month. He says USMEF is seeing a reduction in imports, and some discretionary cargo is getting diverted away to ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the East Coast. “This isn’t good news for the meat industry,” he says. *********************************************************************************** FAO Issues Report on World’s Hunger Hotspots The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has issued an early report on places it expects to be hunger hotspots from June to November. The FAO says food insecurity is likely going to increase in magnitude and severity in 18 hunger hotspots in 22 countries. The report spotlights the risk of spillover in the Sudan crisis, raising the risk of negative impacts in the surrounding countries. It also says deeper economic shocks will continue to drive low- and middle-income nations deeper into crisis. FAO is also warning that a likely El Niño climate event will raise fears of climate extremes in the most vulnerable nations around the world. All of the hotspots at the highest level of concern have populations facing or projected to face starvation or are at risk of deterioration towards those conditions. Countries like Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, and South Sudan remain at the highest level of concern. *********************************************************************************** Global Clean Energy Kickstarting a Climate-Smart Camelina Project Global Clean Energy Holdings and USDA have signed a contract for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant for their Climate-Smart Camelina (kam-uh-LEE-nah) Project. Now that the agreement is signed, work can officially begin on their $30 million project to measure and validate the advantages of camelina as an ultra-low carbon nonfood renewable fuel. The project will implement, measure, and validate the advantages of camelina in both rotational and winter crop production systems. The goal is to accelerate farmers’ adoption of camelina grown to produce feedstock for renewable biofuels and chemicals without causing land-use change and while increasing carbon capture in the soil. Climate-Smart Camelina will also support market development to provide additional revenue streams for growers and provide a premium for this low-carbon intensity crop. “We’re excited to begin this important work,” says Richard Palmer, CEO of Global Clean Energy. “Camelina could be the lowest-carbon intensity feedstock option on the market.” *********************************************************************************** Groups Pushing for Passage of Shipping Reform Implementation Act The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is designed to help with slowdowns and other issues at U.S. ports. The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act follows the Ocean Shipping Reform Act passed a year ago. The first bill gave the Federal Maritime Commission the power to address the actions of foreign carriers leaving U.S. ports empty and not carrying American goods back home. The new Reform Implementation Act clarifies the FMC role and focuses attention on shipping exchanges. The goals are to streamline port logistics, reduce disruption, and address the influence of Chinese companies on shippers’ operations. U.S. ports are also prohibited from using Chinese state-sponsored software. The FMC can now investigate foreign shipping exchanges like the Shanghai Shipping Exchange to prevent improper business practices. A report from Supply Management says the sponsoring legislators point out it gives the FMC the authority to protect U.S. ports, shippers, and manufacturers from Chinese influence. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Grain Inspections Drop, Bean Assessments Head Higher A USDA report says inspections of corn and wheat for overseas delivery were down week-to-week, while soybean assessments improved during the week ending on May 25. Corn inspections fell to 1.31 million metric tons during the week, down from 1.33 million tons. That’s also lower than the 1.41 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat assessments drop to just over 382,000 metric tons from over 440,000 the prior week. That was up from the 344,300 metric tons during the same week in 2022. Soybean inspections rose to 239,736 metric tons from 166,590 tons the week before. That’s still down from the 404,300 tons assessed during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 28.7 million metric tons of corn for offshore delivery – down from 43.3 billion tons last year - 48.5 million metric tons of soybeans, and 19.6 million tons of wheat *********************************************************************************** Water-Quality Certified Farms Make More Profits A study from the Minnesota State Agricultural Centers of Excellence says using water quality practices on the farm has financial benefits. For the fourth year in a row, farmers enrolled in the state’s Agricultural Water Quality Program had higher profits than those that didn’t. More than 100 farms enrolled in the water certification program throughout the state. Forty-three of the state’s 87 counties were represented. On average, water quality-certified farms brought in $23,500 more than non-certified farms, which was a 7.5 percent increase in profits. The average net income was more than $317,800 for farms involved in the study, while the state average was $257,600. “This clearly states the case for water quality certification,” says Keith Olander, AgCentric director. “I can say this because we’re also doing this with cover crops, and we want to carry that forward and see where the environmental metrics go to help farmers with their decisions.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 1, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, weekly U.S. jobless claims will be out, along with a report on first-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of U.S. manufacturing is set for 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT, followed by weekly inventories, including ethanol production at 10 a.m. The monthly Fats and Oils report from NASS is set for 2 p.m. Weather As has been the case all week long, showers and thunderstorms continue to develop in parts of the Plains, being heavy in some spots where they occur, which may produce flooding. The Texas Panhandle has been hit repeatedly but other areas up and down the Plains could see some locally heavy rain as well. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms may occur in parts of the western Midwest and Southeast.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 31, 2023 |
USDA Extends Deadline for Revenue Loss Programs USDA is extending deadlines for the Emergency Relief Program Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program to July 14. The goal is to give producers more time to apply for the assistance. Also, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is partnering with nine organizations to provide educational and technical assistance to agricultural producers and provide assistance in completing an ERP Phase Two application. “Farm Service Agency recognizes that there is a learning curve for producers applying for the new revenue-based programs, and we want to make sure producers have the time they need to apply for assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Partnering with these organizations through cooperative agreements provides additional assistance to producers who need help with ERP Phase Two.” The groups include Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc., the North South Institute, Rural Coalition, and others. For more information on the nine organizations and their contact information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Next USDA Trade Mission Heading to Japan USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an upcoming trade mission to Japan on June 5-8. The delegation will include a large representation of American agriculture, including businesses, state agriculture departments, and commodity groups. “As one of the world’s leading economies, Japan is an important market for U.S. food and agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “It’s an honor to lead this delegation as we work to expand our bilateral trade relationship even further.” Japan is the fourth-largest market for U.S. food and agricultural exports. In 2022, American exports matched the previous record of $14.6 billion. Exports of specific products like soybeans, dairy, and others reached new highs. The United States is vital to ensuring food security in Japan, with almost a quarter of Japan’s food and ag imports coming from American exporters. Trips like this are important for engaging directly with potential buyers and Japanese industry experts. *********************************************************************************** Talks Continue on Merging U.S. and Canadian Ag Giants Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012. *********************************************************************************** Safety From too Much Sun People working in production agriculture spend a lot of time out in the sun, and their risks are high for skin cancer. While the warm sun often feels good on the skin, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from overexposure and reduce skin-related risks. The Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center says appropriate sun protection includes covering the whole body with clothing, wearing a hat with a full brim, having adequate sunscreen coverage, and sunglasses. As a part of its safety checklist, they remind farmers to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when out in the sun. Hats should be wide-brimmed and all the way around the head. An appropriate sunscreen should be anywhere between SPF 30-50 and should be reapplied every two hours or more frequently with heavy sweating. Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes. Check your skin regularly and talk to a doctor about any changes you see. *********************************************************************************** Congressional Leaders, White House Reach Debt Ceiling Agreement Congressional leaders and the White House reached an agreement on extending the debt limit. The new agreement is expected to reach the House floor for debate by Wednesday. The two sides reached an agreement including compromises on work requirements in the SNAP program. Chris Gibbs, Board President of Rural Voices USA, says now that the agreement has been reached, it’s time for Congress to get it passed. “Rural America would be hammered by default and its cascading impacts on retirement savings, farm credit, access to capital, benefits, and more,” he says. “In addition to avoiding this politically-manufactured crisis, Congress needs to get back to the legislating business.” Gibbs also says it’s time to invest in rural America through healthcare and education, expanding new markets for American agricultural products, and protecting every American’s right to vote. With SNAP work requirements settled, it should provide a somewhat smoother path toward the next farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Drought Area Spreading in Parts of Rural America USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought. “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 31, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. CDT. There are no other significant reports Wednesday. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and follow progress on the proposal in Congress to raise the debt ceiling. Weather As has been the pattern lately, showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop in the Plains for yet another day. However, we should see showers and thunderstorms developing in the western half of the Midwest as well. Models are all over the place with placement and intensity, but some heavier rain should be expected, which could lead to some flooding in spots. Severe weather cannot be ruled out either, especially over west Texas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 30, 2023 |
More Reaction to Supreme Court’s WOTUS Decision U.S. agriculture groups continue reacting positively to the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling in the Sackett vs. EPA case that rejected the Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition. “Cattle producers can breathe a sigh of relief,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson. “This decision refocuses the Clean Water Act on protecting our water through regulatory clarity.” The Fertilizer Institute also welcomed the decision. “The decision to strike down the ‘significant nexus’ test is a win for agriculture,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “This is a great first step to needed clarity for the fertilizer industry’s long-term planning and capital investments that will allow us to keep providing critical crop nutrients.” The National Pork Producers Council called the decision a “tremendous victory” for pork producers. “This ruling is a clear punctuation point after decades of attempts to expand the federal government’s control of private land,” says NPPC Vice President Duane Stateler. *********************************************************************************** Report Released Showing Crop Insurance Impact by State Crop insurance is the cornerstone of America’s farm safety net and supports the rural economy and America’s national food security. National Crop Insurance Services has assembled several fact sheets highlighting the importance of agriculture and demonstrating how crop insurance keeps America growing. For example, crop insurance protects more than 490 million acres of U.S. farmland. It covers 136 crops and 604 varieties with 36 different insurance plans. Crop insurance does require farmers to invest in their own protection and share the risk. Last year, farmers paid $6.8 billion to buy more than 1.2 million crop insurance policies. The public-private partnership between the federal government and private crop insurers ensures that aid is delivered quickly, usually within 30 days of a claim being finalized. As if that’s not enough, the number of Americans who benefit from a bountiful supply of domestically-produced food totals 336 million. The state-by-state breakdown is available at cropinsuranceinmystate.org. *********************************************************************************** BLM Holds Information Session on New Rule The Bureau of Land Management hosted the first in a series of three informational sessions on a new agency proposal to broaden its conservation efforts. The draft Conservation and Landscape Health Rule would overhaul a variety of existing land management procedures at BLM. The changes would give it clearer authority to prioritize the health and resilience of ecosystems across almost 250 million acres of federally-owned land. Agency officials and supporters of the rule say it would place conservation and outdoor recreation on level ground with industrial uses like ranching and oil and gas drilling that BLM has facilitated for many years. Opponents and their Republican allies say it will likely curb those uses as much of the rule revolves around “conservation leases.” It’s a new mechanism that would protect certain areas from development for up to ten years. And those leases would be proposed by environmental non-profits or other applicants. *********************************************************************************** H-2A Visa Use Increased Dramatically During the Last Decade According to numbers from the U.S. Labor Department, more than 378,000 workers were authorized for H-2A visas for temporary agriculture positions. The number was less than a third of that as recently as 2012. Farmer Mac says that trend is going to continue for some time. “In the short run, I expect that growth to continue as long as pressure remains on labor markets,” says Jackson Takach, the chief economist with Farmer Mac. Back in 2012, the Labor Department said just 103,000 workers entered the U.S. through the H-2A program. H-2A workers are most heavily utilized in states like California and Florida because fruits and vegetables require more manual labor. However, those workers are also vital for agriculture in the Midwest and Great Plains. Iowa tops the list of states with the most H-2A workers in the Central U.S. Iowa was followed by Minnesota and North Dakota on the list. *********************************************************************************** Legislation on Easing Supply Chain Challenges Advances in the House Several industry trade groups say a number of trucking bills passed by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee are a step in the right direction. Food Navigator says the bills should help to further repair and reinforce America’s fragile food supply chains threatened by a severe shortage of drivers. Almost three-fourths of all goods in America’s economy, including all foods sold in grocery stores, get moved by the trucking industry. The bipartisan legislation would reduce the “empty miles” that trucks have to travel by allowing them to increase the weight they carry with an additional axle. A bill from Dusty Johnson (R-SD) would establish a voluntary ten-year pilot program allowing states to increase the weight of six-axle vehicles on federal interstates up to 91,000 pounds. Supporters say increasing the amount of weight trucks can carry would lower greenhouse gas emissions, ease supply chain backlogs, and reduce the number of “empty miles.” *********************************************************************************** Weekly Soybean Sales Rise, Corn and Wheat Drop The USDA says soybean export sales rose during the week ending on May 19, while cancelations of corn and wheat orders from overseas customers resulted in net reductions. Soybean sales rose to 115,000 metric tons during the week, up from the prior week but down 26 percent from the previous five-year average. Germany was the top customer at almost 58,000 metric tons, while Japan bought 53,500 tons. Cancelations of corn orders resulted in a net drop of 75,200 metric tons during the week. However, that’s still better than the net reduction of 339,000 during the prior week. Mexico was the top corn buyer at 216,000 metric tons. But China canceled shipments of almost 332,000 metric tons. Wheat cancelations resulted in net reductions of 45,100 metric tons, the lowest level since the marketing year began. China bought 68,000 tons of wheat while Nigeria took in almost 16,000. Japan canceled shipments totaling 63,000 metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 30, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, trading in grains resumes at 7 p.m. CDT Monday evening. Traders will catch up with the latest weather forecasts and see the House is expected to vote on a debt ceiling compromise Wednesday. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather After a long holiday weekend of widespread showers and thunderstorms for much of the Plains, that general area will again be alight with more rain on Tuesday. Some areas of showers and thunderstorms are also forecast for the northwestern Midwest. Other showers and thunderstorms are forecast in parts of the Midwest, Delta, and Southeast, but at a very isolated coverage pattern.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 26, 2023 |
AFBF: Supreme Court Reaffirms Clean Water Rule The Supreme Court Thursday ruled against the Environmental Protection Agency in the case Sackett vs. EPA regarding the Biden administration's Waters of the U.S. rule. The court stated that wetlands under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act must have a continuous surface connection to bodies of water, making it difficult to determine where the water ends, and the wetland begins. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, "The justices respect private property rights. It's now time for the Biden administration to do the same and rewrite the Waters of the United States Rule." Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican and Congressional Western Caucus Chairman, says, “This landmark decision from the Supreme Court is a clear demonstration of our nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of individual property rights.” Agricultural Retailers Association President and CEO Daren Coppock added, “The decision finally restores common sense back into WOTUS regulation.” *********************************************************************************** Japan Trade Agreement Projected to Grow U.S. Pork Exports Japan’s pork imports are estimated to increase to more than $6 billion over the next five years, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Growth is supported by trade agreements Japan ratified between 2018 and 2021 with its major pork suppliers, including the United States, the European Union, and the ten countries party to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. These agreements mandate reductions in Japan’s trade barriers on pork imports. A recent report from USDA estimates these trade agreements will boost 2028 exports to Japan from the United States, EU, and CPTPP countries to totals of $2.08 billion, $2.04 billion, and $2.03 billion, respectively. For the United States, this is a large gain compared with a scenario in which the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement did not exist. Under that scenario, U.S. pork exports to Japan would have totaled $1.41 billion, and EU and CPTPP countries would have gained market share at the expense of the United States. *********************************************************************************** Drought Monitor: Southern Plains See Drought Relief The Southern Plains saw drought relief over the last week, according to the latest Drought Monitor released Thursday. Still, much of the rain arrived too late to rescue winter wheat, though rangeland, pastures, and summer crops greatly benefited from the soil moisture improvements. In Texas, rangeland and pastures rated in very poor to poor condition by the Department of Agriculture improved from 51 to 36 percent during the week ending May 21. On the same date, topsoil moisture was rated less than one-third very short to short in Texas and Oklahoma. Still, despite abundant showers and thunderstorms, pockets of extreme to exceptional drought persisted in western and central Texas and across the northwestern half of Oklahoma. Farther east, most areas remained free of dryness and drought, aside from a few areas in the central Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, variable rainfall extended westward into the central and southern Rockies and eastward to the southern Atlantic Coast. *********************************************************************************** Lab-Grown Meat Carbon Footprint Potentially Greater than Retail Beef A new report suggests lab-grown meat may have a larger carbon footprint than retail beef. Researchers at the University of California-Davis found that lab-grown or "cultivated" meat's environmental impact is likely to be "orders of magnitude" higher than retail beef based. Researchers conducted a life-cycle assessment of the energy needed and greenhouse gases emitted in all stages of production and compared that with beef. One of the current challenges with lab-grown meat is the use of highly refined or purified growth media, the ingredients needed to help animal cells multiply. The study found that the global warming potential of lab-based meat using these purified media is four to 25 times greater than the average for retail beef. Even the most efficient beef production systems reviewed in the study outperform cultured meat across all scenarios, suggesting investments to advance more climate-friendly beef production may yield greater reductions in emissions more quickly than investments in cultured meat. *********************************************************************************** Program Pays Illinois Farmers to Improve Soil Health American Farmland Trust and ADM are launching the next season of a program that supports Illinois’s farmers and the environment. The Illinois re:generations program encourages farmers to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into their operations while offering financial incentives. The program is an expanded version of the 2022 Illinois Cover Crop Initiative and offers flexible contracts to farmers willing to adopt cover crops 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 acres where practices have previously been used and choose from one to four year contracts. In 2023, farmers throughout the state can enroll for the cover crop incentive, and farmers delivering corn and beans to an ADM elevator can qualify for emissions-scoring payments. Enrollment for the 2023 program launches in June. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Addresses Housing Shortage in Rural Communities Lawmakers this week introduced the Forest Service Flexible Housing Partnerships Act to help address the housing shortage in rural and mountain communities. The bipartisan legislation would strengthen the authority of the United States Forest Service to lease underutilized administrative sites to address local needs, including for building affordable housing. Senator Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat, introduced the legislation. Bennet says, “This bill will build on our efforts in the 2018 Farm Bill to help communities and the Forest Service work together to build more affordable housing.” The 2018 Farm Bill secured the authority for the Forest Service to lease underused administrative sites to localities in exchange for in-kind contributions, including housing construction and improvement or maintenance of federal facilities. As a result of the housing crisis in the West, the Forest Service currently experiences a severe staffing shortage. The legislation will also help the agency provide housing for its firefighters and other critical positions to better serve the communities they work for.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 26, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the PCE index for April will be out, the Fed's favorite inflation indicator. We'll also see reports on April durable goods orders, personal incomes and consumer spending. The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment for May follows at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and news of grain shipments out of the Black Sea. Weather Showers and thunderstorms that have been persistent in Montana and the southwestern Plains are forecast to spread through more of the Plains on Friday. Heavy rain and some severe weather are possible. Most of the Corn Belt stays dry today, with some growing concern over dryness through the Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |
Supreme Court Sides With Sacketts in Clean Water Act Case The Supreme Court sided with two Idaho property owners in their ongoing wetlands dispute with EPA on Thursday, ruling EPA's use of the significant nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations is too broad. In writing the 5-4 majority opinion, Justice Samuel Alito said EPA has misinterpreted the Clean Water Act's reach when it comes to the property owned by Michael and Chantell Sackett and that the term significant nexus isn't found in the Clean Water Act. "In sum, we hold that the CWA extends to only those 'wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are 'waters of the United States' in their own right,' so that they are 'indistinguishable' from those waters," Alito said in his opinion. "This holding compels reversal here. The wetlands on the Sacketts' property are distinguishable from any possibly covered waters." The ruling will naturally lead to lower courts examining how the decision applies to the Biden administration's definition of "waters of the U.S." that right now is under court injunctions in at least 26 states tied to two separate courts. The American Farm Bureau Federation praised the Supreme Court decision, stating EPA "clearly overstepped its authority under the Clean Water Act by restricting private property owners from developing their land despite being far from the nearest navigable water." Zippy Duvall, president of AFBF, then called on the Biden administration to rewrite its waters of the U.S. rule. "Farmers and ranchers share the goal of protecting the resources they're entrusted with, but they deserve a rule that provides clarity and doesn't require a team of attorneys to properly care for their land," Duvall said. EPA Administrator Michael Regan expressed disappointment in the court ruling, stating the Supreme Court decision "erodes longstanding clean water protections." Regan added, "The Biden-Harris Administration has worked to establish a durable definition of 'waters of the United States' that safeguards our nation's waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people's health while providing the clarity and certainty that farmers, ranchers, and landowners deserve. These goals will continue to guide the agency forward as we carefully review the Supreme Court decision and consider next steps." The Sacketts have been battling EPA since 2007 for the right to build on land the agency has deemed to be a wetland. Their property sits on a lakefront and they've argued that there is no surface connection between the lake and their land. Alito said in the majority opinion that the Clean Water Act's reach is far narrower than EPA has opined. "The EPA, however, offers only a passing attempt to square its interpretation with the text and its 'significant nexus' theory is particularly implausible," Alito writes. He said the definition of waters of the U.S. is more limited. "And, in any event, the CWA never mentions the 'significant nexus' test, so the EPA has no statutory basis to impose it," Alito stated. One environmental group characterized the court's decision as 'stripping out key protections' from the Clean Water Act. Manish Bapna, president and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council, said in a statement to DTN that the court "ripped the heart" out of the law. "The majority chose to protect polluters at the expense of healthy wetlands and waterways," Bapna said. "This decision will cause incalculable harm. Communities across the country will pay the price." The agency's use of the significant-nexus standard has been at the heart of opposition from agriculture and other industries to recent iterations of the waters of the U.S. rule. The standard essentially allows the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to determine waters are covered by the law if there is a chemical connection to larger navigable water bodies. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Alito said in the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited'," Alito writes, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test." Alito's ruling noted in defining "waters of the U.S.," the court revisits what has been "a contentious and difficult task." Alito said the phrase "waters of the U.S." has sparked decades of EPA action and litigation. The boundary between "significant" and insignificant is far from clear, Alito wrote. EPA argued that "waters" also includes wetlands. But Alito points to the presence of puddles and also noted in an earlier decision that ponds are not considered part of waters of the U.S. Alito went into an extensive writing about where wetlands fall in the CWA. Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurs in his opinion but said that the "wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are 'waters of the United States' in their own right so that they are "indistinguishable" from those waters." Kavanaugh wrote that he agreed the Sacketts' property should not have been covered under the Clean Water Act, but he said the majority ruling goes too far in removing the significant nexus test. The court's new "continuous surface connection" goes against 45 years of consistent agency practice and court precedents, Kavanaugh wrote. "By narrowing the act's coverage of wetlands to only adjoining wetlands, the court's new test will leave some long-regulated adjacent wetlands no longer covered by the Clean Water Act, with significant repercussions for water quality and flood control throughout the United States."
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |
Iowa Cash Rents Hit Highest Average Value on Record The recent yearly survey of Iowa’s cash rental rates for farmland shows rates jumped by nine percent so far in 2023. The average is now $279 per acre, the highest average value on record. This new peak rate is three percent higher than the previous high of $270 in 2013. By way of comparison, average nominal (not inflation-adjusted) corn and soybean prices paid to farmers in the first quarter of this year were 2.8 percent higher and 4.4 percent lower, respectively, than in the first quarter of 2013. Of the usable responses to the Iowa State University Extension survey, 42 percent came from farmers, 37 percent from landowners, nine percent from professional farm managers and realtors, and seven percent came from ag lenders. The survey showed considerable variability across counties in year-to-year changes, typical of these surveys. A total of 91 out of 99 counties showed higher rents for corn and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** Ribbon Cutting on National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility USDA and the Department of Homeland Security celebrated the dedication and ribbon-cutting of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. This facility is the first of its kind in the U.S. It offers the highest level of bio-containment laboratories and safety protocols and will allow scientists to study and diagnose critical animal diseases. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers count on our researchers to understand, monitor for, and develop solutions to combat a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. A facility of this magnitude positions us to respond.” The valuable scientific information delivered by researchers at NBAF will also allow America to remain a leading contributor of countermeasures that will protect agriculture, economies, and citizens across the globe. A USDA news release also says it’s a historic investment for agriculture and our nation in ensuring the health, safety, and security of the U.S. food supply. *********************************************************************************** EPA to Recommend Delaying Electric Vehicles Biofuel Program The Environmental Protection Agency will recommend delaying a program that would allow electric vehicle manufacturers to access tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Two sources told Reuters that the White House will review the EPA’s final rule. The plan would have given EV automakers credits for charging vehicles using power generated from natural gas or methane. The threat of potential lawsuits also could have played a part in the postponement. The initial proposal last November could have generated as much as 600 million tradeable credits in 2024 and 1.2 billion in 2025. Prices for equivalent biofuel credits have recently traded over $2 each. The two sources also say the Biden Administration is still hoping to pass a final rule on the EV program before the end of 2023, even if it gets uncoupled from the yearly blending mandates. Biden is boosting the EV industry in an effort to reduce carbon emissions. *********************************************************************************** China Opposes U.S. Trade Agreement with Taiwan China had a lot to say about the recent trade agreement between the U.S. and Taiwan. Saltwire.com says China’s Ministry of Commerce urged the U.S. to “carefully handle economic and trade relations with Taiwan.” The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office recently announced that the U.S. and Taiwan reached an agreement on the first part of their 21st Century trade initiative. The agreement covers customs and trade facilitation, regulatory practices, and small businesses. The pact is not expected to alter goods tariffs, but supporters say it will tighten economic bonds between the two nations and open up the Chinese-claimed island to more U.S. exports. It will also improve the ability of the island nation to resist Chinese economic coercion. China reacted angrily to the Taiwan president’s recent meetings with high-level U.S. officials, including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. The announcement came just ahead of trade meetings between the U.S. and China. *********************************************************************************** USDA Wants Input on Prevented Planting Crop Insurance Coverage The USDA published a Request for Information announcing public listening sessions and soliciting public comments on possible changes to prevent planting crop insurance coverage. In addition to the written public comment period, the Risk Management Agency will hold in-person and virtual listening sessions from June through August. “We truly care about what our customers, the nation’s agricultural producers, have to say,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “That’s why we’re hosting listening sessions in 11 states in addition to accepting written comments.” The request for information is looking for input on the harvest price option, the “1 in 4” Rule, the ten percent additional coverage option, the contract prices, as well as general information on farmers’ willingness to pay additional premiums for expanded prevented planting benefits. They also want recommendations on other potential prevent planting limitations. Additional details on the listening sessions, including the schedule, are available on the RMA website. *********************************************************************************** Soy Innovation Challenge Winner’s New Approach to Soy Meal Processing The United Soybean Board announced Satavie is the winner of the 2023 Soy Innovation Challenge. The Challenge called on entrepreneurs, innovators, startups, and research teams to bring new ways to advance the use of soybean meal and demand in existing markets. Satavie was selected as the winner out of 80 applicants from around the world. The company has a unique approach to extracting concentrated soy protein from soybean meal. Their new method ensures high levels of digestibility, improved nutrient absorption, and increased feed conversion rates that are ideal for swine, poultry, and aquaculture feed. As the winner of the contest, the company gets $100,000 from the United Soybean Board and $5,000 of in-kind technical services and credits from Amazon Web Services. The company’s president says the impact on the soy industry will be enormous. Their water extraction patented technique leads to better health outcomes, overall growth, and improved meat quality.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a new estimate of first-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. More reports follow with U.S. pending home sales in April at 9 a.m. and natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain attentive to changes in weather. Weather Yet another day of isolated to scattered showers are expected in the Plains, being heaviest in parts of the drought across the southwest. Additional strings of showers and thunderstorms are expected for the Northern Plains into the Canadian Prairies as well. Outside of some cool temperatures across the Midwest, it remains rather warm as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 24, 2023 |
Last Chance to Complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will end data collection for the 2022 Census of Agriculture on May 31. Producers who have not yet returned their completed questionnaires have just one week left to respond. Federal law requires everyone who received the ag census to complete and return it. Recipients can respond online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Not being represented in these widely used data means risking being underserved.” USDA NASS is reminding ag census recipients that if they produced and sold $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022, or normally would have produced and sold that much, they meet USDA’s definition of a farm. However, landowners who lease land to producers, those solely involved in conservation programs, and even those who may not have farmed in 2022 are still required to respond. USDA will release the results in 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. *********************************************************************************** NIFA Helps Veterinary Medical Students Repay Loans USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture helped 89 food animal veterinary practitioners with loan repayments from the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program in 2022. NIFA reported this week that the 89 students from 28 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges received nearly $9 million in loan repayment benefits. The program up to $75,000 in loan repayment over a three-year period to help eligible veterinarians offset a significant portion of the debt incurred in pursuit of their veterinary medical degrees in return for their service in certain high-priority veterinary shortage situations. Funding is authorized by the National Veterinary Medical Services Act. NIFA National Program Leader Bob Smith says, "Award recipients regularly tell us that they wouldn't be able to serve these areas without this support." The program helps address the critical shortage of food animal veterinarians in both private and public practice, particularly in rural communities in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Eating Patterns Differ from Federal Recommendations U.S. consumers’ eating patterns differ from Federal recommendations for many food categories, and where food is obtained plays a role. Researchers from USDA’s Economic Research Service examined diet patterns based on density—amounts of food consumed per 1,000 calories—using the latest available national food consumption data. They compared the average consumption densities of 17 food categories with what would be needed to match the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations, assuming a 2,000-calorie intake. Average total consumption densities for 11 food categories fell more than 20 percent outside of recommended levels, with whole grains more than 70 percent below the recommended amount. Refined grains, on the other hand, had a consumption density of more than 85 percent above the recommended level. Densities of six food categories were within 20 percent of the recommended range. Generally, food purchased at grocery stores, supermarkets, and similar retailers for home preparation had consumption densities more in line with dietary recommendations than food obtained from commercial away-from-home sources. *********************************************************************************** USDA, University of Kentucky Break Ground on New Forage Research Building Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for a new research facility, known as the Forage-Animal Production Research Unit. The University of Kentucky's College of Agriculture, Food and the Environment will host the new facility. Vilsack says, “Today’s groundbreaking builds on more than two decades of partnership with the University of Kentucky, while demonstrating USDA’s latest commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible for agriculture.” Upon completion, targeted for 2026, the new facility will encompass approximately 52,600 total square feet of office, supporting a research laboratory space, as well as a collaborative area, headhouse and eight-bay greenhouses. It will be staffed by six Agricultural Research Service scientists, seven university researchers, laboratory technicians, and administrative personnel. Earlier this month, USDA released a three-year science and research strategy, which establishes a scientific framework to transform the U.S. food system and support our nation's farmers, ranchers, producers and foresters. *********************************************************************************** The Alltech ONE World Tour begins in Budapest Central Europe's agriculture producers will play a major role in addressing climate and food supply challenges around the world. The region's agri-food leaders discussed collaborative solutions and strategies for success today in Budapest, Hungary, at the first stop of the Alltech ONE World Tour. The event launches a series of international stops that bring the ideas and inspiration of the annual Alltech ONE Conference to the world. Discussions explored collaborative solutions to the greatest challenges facing the agri-food industry as it confronts the "4 Cs" — the major forces of climate, conflict, consumer trends and rising costs. Alltech president and CEO Dr. Mark Lyons says, "In times of uncertainty, it is crucial for businesses like ours to adapt and innovate." The Alltech ONE World Tour will continue with stops in Dublin, Ireland, on June 19–20 and Calgary, Canada, on July 3–4, then on to the U.S., Asia, South America and the Middle East. For more information and to register for an Alltech ONE World Tour stop, visit one.alltech.com. *********************************************************************************** Ford to Keep AM Radio in New Vehicles Ford CEO Jim Farley announced on Twitter Tuesday that the company would include AM radio as part of all newly manufactured vehicles in 2024. Farley says, “After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles.” Any owners of a Ford electric vehicle without AM broadcast capability will be offered the capability through a software update, according to the company. The reversal follows action by lawmakers who introduced the AM for Every Vehicle Act last week, and opposition by broadcast associations. The National Association of Broadcasters, in a statement responded, "In light of Ford's announcement, NAB urges other automakers who have removed AM radio from their vehicles to follow Ford's lead." The AM for Every Vehicle Act cited the importance of keeping communities informed during emergencies, particularly rural communities with a lack of other information resources.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 24, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production, is due out at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting are out at 1 p.m., followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. Traders continue to pay attention to the latest weather developments, news regarding Black Sea grain movement and talks surrounding the debt ceiling. Weather The Plains continue to be a focus for showers, especially across the southern drought areas where moderate to heavy rain has developed this week and continues Wednesday. An additional zone from Montana through Saskatchewan is also producing more consistent showers and thunderstorms. Other isolated showers will dot the rest of the Plains and Southeast as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 23, 2023 |
USDA to Bring Jobs and Improved Infrastructure to Rural Partners Network The Department of Agriculture Monday announced an effort to help rural communities to address some of their immediate needs and foster long-term economic growth. USDA is providing loans and grants to help people living in rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care. The funding will support 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. In the West, the funding will help Tribal communities improve water and wastewater services and bring solar power and other forms of renewable energy to Tribal lands and farms. For people in Southern communities, projects will increase access to fresh foods in high-poverty areas and allow electric cooperatives to connect thousands of people to power with smart-grid technologies. The announcement includes $394 million in awards from USDA that will benefit communities and support their long-term visions for strong, local economies. *********************************************************************************** New Right to Repair MOUs Bring Industry Coverage to 70% The American Farm Bureau Federation signed two more memoranda of understanding with two agricultural equipment manufacturers. The new MOUs were signed by AGCO and Kubota, providing farmers and ranchers the right to repair their own farm equipment. The MOUs, negotiated independently with each manufacturer, follow similar agreements AFBF entered into with John Deere and CNH Industrial Brands earlier this year. The four MOUs cover roughly 70 percent of the agricultural machinery sold in the United States. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “These agreements represent ongoing efforts to ensure farmers have access to the tools necessary to keep their equipment running.” The MOUs set a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico to access AGCO and Kubota manuals, tools, product guides and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines, as well as support from the manufacturers to directly purchase or lease diagnostic tools and order products and parts. *********************************************************************************** Atypical BSE Case Detected in South Carolina USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service last week announced the finding of an atypical case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (in-sef-o-lop-athy). The approximately five-year-old or older beef cow tested positive following routine surveillance protocols at a slaughterhouse in South Carolina. The animal possessed a radio frequency identification tag associated with a herd in Tennessee. USDA APHIS and state animal health officials will conduct a thorough investigation of the case. Atypical BSE cases occur rarely and spontaneously, often in older cattle. This is only the nation's 7th case of atypical BSE, following a previous incident in 2018. This is the nation’s 7th detection of BSE. Of the six previous U.S. cases, the first, in 2003, was a case of classical BSE in a cow imported from Canada; the rest have been atypical. U.S. Cattlemen's Association president Justin Tupper responded, “This animal never entered slaughter channels and at no time entered the food supply chain due to the effectiveness of the surveillance team.” *********************************************************************************** Data Shows Few Farm Estates Must File Estate Tax Return New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows that less than one percent of farm estates created in 2022 must file an estate tax return. Created in 1916, the federal estate tax is a tax on the transfer of property to a person's heirs upon death. In 2022, the Federal estate tax exemption amount was $12.06 million per person, and the federal estate tax rate was 40 percent. Under the present law, the estate of a person who owns assets above the exemption amount at death must file a federal estate tax return. However, only returns with an estate above the exemption after deductions for expenses, debts, and bequests will pay federal estate tax. Researchers estimate that in 2022, 39,500 estates were created from principal operator deaths. Of those estates, ERS forecasts that 305, or 0.77 percent, will be required to file an estate tax return, and a further 87, or 0.22 percent, will likely owe Federal estate tax. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers Assistance to Help Organic Dairy Producers The Department of Agriculture recently announced assistance for dairy producers with the new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program/ The program helps dairy producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. USDA’s Farm Service Agency is offering $104 million in grants to dairy operations to assist with projected marketing costs in 2023, calculated using their marketing costs in 2022. Organic dairy producers have faced significant and unique increases in their marketing costs, compounded by increases in feed and transportation costs and the limited availability of organic grain and forage commodities. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Without assistance, many organic dairies, particularly small organic dairies, will cease production.” FSA will begin accepting applications for the program on May 24, 2023. Eligible producers include certified organic dairy operations that produce milk from cows, goats and sheep. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Steady Heading into Holiday Weekend As Americans gear up for the start of the summer driving season with Memorial Day weekend, the nation's average price of gasoline is unchanged from a week ago at $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.2 cents last week and stands at $3.94 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “We’ve seen more states see prices climb than fall, which has been driven by oil’s volatility as debt ceiling discussions are ongoing.” De Haan expects prices to rise slightly this week, especially if there are positive developments in the debt ceiling discussions. With continued discussions about reaching a bipartisan agreement to raise the nation’s debt limit, the price of oil has remained somewhat volatile, given the economic repercussions that come with the situation. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a rise of 1.1 percent last week, and the most common U.S. gas price was 3.39 per gallon, up ten cents from last week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 23, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales for April is set for 9 a.m. Traders will keep watch on the latest weather forecasts and digest Monday afternoon's Crop Progress reports. Weather A weak system continues to bring showers to the Southeast Tuesday. Isolated to scattered showers will continue across the Plains and Canadian Prairies as well, being heaviest and most widespread across parts of Alberta. Showers across the southwestern Plains will continue to ease drought conditions.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |
Winter Wheat Harvest Finds Disappointing Yields The 2023 Wheat Quality Council’s Winter Wheat Tour wrapped up last week with disappointing numbers. After scouting for three days, the tour calculated an average yield of 30 bushels per acre. While an estimated 8.1 million acres of wheat were planted last fall, the winter wheat crop has suffered from a multi-year drought that cut yields and resulted in abandoned fields in Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. The official tour projection for the total production of wheat to be harvested in Kansas is 178 million bushels. Kansas Wheat says that number shows tour participants thought abandonment might be quite a bit higher than normal at almost 27 percent. The production number is the average of estimated predictions from tour participants who scouted 652 fields across the area. Based on May 1 conditions, NASS predicted the crop to be 191 million bushels, a yield of 29 bushels per acre, and abandonment at 18.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** Updates Begin on Improving Mississippi River Infrastructure The Army Corps of Engineers held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the beginning of repairs to a lock and dam on the Upper Mississippi River that’s crucial to shipping corn and other commodities. Lock and Dam 25, almost 50 miles north of St. Louis, hasn’t been extensively repaired since it was constructed in the early 20th century. Funding for the project was included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Illinois Corn Growers Association, long at the forefront of advocating for updates to the Lock and Dam, applauded the development. “Our hope is this will be the beginning of a waterfall of infrastructure work on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers,” says ICGA President Matt Rush. Lock and Dam 25 is crucially important to corn growers as 60 percent of corn and soybean exports are transported on the Mississippi River. The river is important in shipping products both domestically and abroad. *********************************************************************************** USDA Previews Emergency Relief for Agricultural Producers Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack plans to roll out $3.7 billion in Emergency Relief Program and Emergency Livestock Relief Program assistance to crop and livestock producers. The funds will help producers who sustained losses due to a qualifying natural disaster event during calendar year 2022. USDA is sharing the information early to allow producers time to gather documents in advance of program delivery. “U.S. ag producers nationwide endured crippling natural disaster events in 2022, including a mega-drought, hurricane, flooding, and wildfires,” Vilsack says. “While we have streamlined our delivery of natural disaster assistance, funding is limited and significantly less than the estimated losses.” He also says they’re designing payment factors to help as many producers as possible to offset the significant financial impacts resulting from these ongoing and widespread natural disasters. Producers who have participated in FSA programs likely have the required forms on file. Contact your local USDA Service Center with questions. *********************************************************************************** Senators Ask BLM to Withdraw Draft Rule South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds and 15 other senators sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management asking them to withdraw the proposed Public Lands Rule. The bureau says this rule would let conservationists lease federal land. The senators say it’s intended to set conservation equal to other land uses. The proposal would negatively affect western states, including South Dakota because their economies rely on public land for cattle grazing, energy development, and tourism. “It’s clear that anti-grazing and anti-development organizations would abuse this tool to attempt to halt ranching and block access to our nation’s abundant energy reserves located on public lands,” the letter says. Supporters of this rule say land conservation is necessary to protect the environment. They argue that the rule will not impede current land uses. The BLM website says the bureau will host public meetings, virtually and in person, to discuss the proposed rule. *********************************************************************************** Bill Incentivizes Use of Cover Crops Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and several state representatives introduced bipartisan legislation to incentivize farmers to plant cover crops to help boost environmental conservation. The Conservation Opportunity and Voluntary Environment Resilience Program (COVER) Act would provide farmers who plant cover crops a crop insurance discount of $5 per acre. It will also lower the long-term cost of crop insurance by making the Pandemic Cover Crop Program permanent, authorizing additional funding for technical assistance in accessing the Good Steward Cover Crop Program, and creating a Soil Health Pilot Program. “Farmers are the original conservationists.,” says Brown. “By utilizing cover crops, they can increase yield, decrease pesticide use, and reduce runoff into waterways, which is good for everyone.” Planting cover crops slows erosion, promotes soil health, improves water availability, suppresses weeds, attracts pollinators, helps control pests and diseases, and increases biodiversity. Cover crops increase yields and reduce crop insurance losses caused by prevented planting. *********************************************************************************** Beef Output Will Drop in 2024 U.S. beef production in 2024 will drop eight percent to 24.7 billion pounds amid tighter supplies of cattle. A USDA report says aggregate domestic beef disappearance will fall more than seven percent to 52.8 pounds per capita on a retail-equivalent basis. That’s the lowest level since record-keeping started in 1970. The declining output will push cattle prices to new highs in 2024. A “core portion” of the beef herd is still seeing drought conditions in the Southern Plains, despite improving conditions. That resulted in a shortage of hay. Inventories on May 1 dropped 13 percent year-over-year to the lowest point in a decade. Despite recent rains, for some producers, the very-low hay supplies may not offset poor pastures to sustain herds this summer and allow producers to retain breeding stock,” USDA says. “As a result, culling continues at a relatively high rate.” On a positive note, feed prices will likely decline.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - DTN Summit Event Tuesday, Dicamba Deadlines Loom OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of May 21. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Ag Summit Series: Our second DTN Ag Summit Series virtual event is May 23 at 8:30 a.m. CDT. You'll hear crop updates from farmers across the country, as well as learn the latest crop, fertilizer, weather and markets updates from DTN's formidable staff of reporters and analysts. Registration allows you to both watch the event live as well as view rebroadcasts if you missed a session, and you can share those rebroadcasts with others in your operation. 2. Will wheat stay bearish?: Wheat markets continue to take an anti-fundamentals drop. Tough to swallow following the 2023 Wheat Quality Council Hard Winter Wheat tour, which put expected wheat yields near lows not seen since President John F. Kennedy proclaimed, "Ich bin ein Berliner." That would be 1963, for those keeping score. Prices have many exclaiming "Was zur Holle," though our analysts note the current drop is due to speculator selloffs in the futures market. We'll be keeping tabs on all that through the week. 3. Continued drought reduction: We continue to watch the colors lighten on the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor map, and now also turn lighter on the latest Climate Prediction Center's U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook map, thanks to continued precipitation systems the past few weeks. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick notes that just over 20% of the Lower 48 states are currently in drought, the lowest level of drought conditions since June 2020. This week a ridge in the West moves east, and the weak trough behind it should bring showers to the High Plains, perhaps bringing even further drought reduction. Showers could stymie planting a little in the Dakotas, but overall crop progress should keep progressing. 4. Soybean head scratcher: Beans also have a lot of us scratching "die Kopfe." We'll watch for signs of any changes in the bean complex this week. 5. Herbicide deadlines loom: Early planted beans are running into a conflict with dicamba postemergence application rules in many states. The latest rules outlaw post application when beans reach V4 or June 12, whichever comes first. Many early planted fields will likely hit the size limit well ahead of the cutoff date. Watch for the details from DTN Crops Editor Jason Jenkins this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and keep tabs on the latest crop comments. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, but more attention will turn to the latest reports of planting progress in USDA's 3 p.m. Crop Progress report. Weather A leftover front in the Southeast will bring scattered showers and potential for heavy rain to the Southeast on Monday and into Tuesday as well. Meanwhile, daily showers and thunderstorms will pop up for the Plains this week. For Monday, that targets Montana and the southwestern Plains areas and may fall over areas in deep drought not just Monday but throughout the week as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 19, 2023 |
Black Sea Grain Deal Extended Two Months The Black Sea grain deal has been extended for another two months, something the United Nations calls “good news for the world.” The news came one day before Russia could have quit the deal because of obstacles to its grain and fertilizer exports. Reuters says Turkey’s president made the announcement, later confirmed by Russia, Ukraine, and the U.N. Moscow was unwilling to extend the deal unless some demands regarding its own ag exports were met. While Russia’s ag exports of food and fertilizer aren’t directly affected by Western sanctions, restrictions on payments, logistics, and insurance are a barrier to shipments. Russia’s ambassador to the U.N. says the deal was extended because they haven’t lost hope that the problems raised by Russia will be resolved. The U.N. also says it hopes that exports of food and fertilizers, including ammonia, from Russia and Ukraine will get to global supply chains safely and predictably. *********************************************************************************** Opposition to House Ag Appropriations Bill The House Agriculture Committee’s Ag Appropriations Subcommittee passed its fiscal year 2024 agriculture funding bill. The National Farmers Union says the legislation includes harmful provisions that would prevent USDA from completing a long-awaited Packers and Stockyards Act rule to protect family farmers and ranchers from abuses of market power by the meat industry. “Our markets are heavily consolidated and ripe for manipulation,” says NFU President Rob Larew. Chris Gibbs, president of Rural Voices USA, a leading rural advocacy group, says it’s hard to watch lawmakers who largely represent rural communities gut funding that goes directly to those same rural communities. “By slashing USDA funding by one-third, the House GOP is showing how backward their priorities are,” Gibbs says. “Instead of allowing rural communities to play a meaningful role in industries of the future, this proposal will leave rural communities behind.” Both groups say rural communities cannot stay silent on proposals like this. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Outlines Industry Priorities During House Hearing Scott Hays, president of the National Pork Producers Council, testified before the House Ag Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry and talked about pork priorities. Hays presented policy priorities ranging from funding that supports programs to safeguard the nation’s food supply against the threat of foreign animal diseases to initiatives that expand foreign market access for U.S. agricultural products. Hays outlined the economic challenges facing pig farmers as hog prices have moderated significantly since 2022. Production costs have risen drastically, the industry faced trade retaliation, supply chain issues, labor shortages, and the unfavorable Supreme Court decision on Prop 12. “This is putting a pinch on the pork industry and could drive consolidation at the farm level as producers may be forced to exit the industry,” Hays says. Other priorities include a one-year extension of Livestock Mandatory Price Reporting, opposition to proposed changes to the Packers and Stockyards Act, and others. *********************************************************************************** Biofuels Must Be a Part of Climate Solutions Biofuels like ethanol must not be ignored as a climate solution. That was part of the testimony by Kansas Corn Growers CEO Josh Roe in front of a House Oversight Subcommittee hearing. The discussion centered on vehicle emissions rules and the electric vehicle transition. “Unfortunately, current and proposed EPA rules prevent us from being part of the solution,” says Roe. “While we believe electric vehicles will play a vital role in achieving climate goals, other complementary alternatives like biofuels have a key role to play but are being pushed aside.” Roe also questioned the EPA proposal that considers electric vehicles as zero emission. “They aren’t truly zero-emission vehicles,” he says. “While they don’t have a tailpipe, you still need to account for the emissions that come from the power grid.” The U.S. power grid is 60 percent powered by coal and natural gas, and EPA rules don’t account for upstream emissions. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Endorses Legislation Protecting Animal Health The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association announced its support the Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance, and Rapid Response Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation would continue making critical investments in foreign animal disease response programs currently overseen by USDA. “The threat of a foreign animal disease outbreak in the U.S. represents an existential threat to every cattle producer,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “As a cattle producer, it is reassuring to see bipartisan support for legislation like this, which will help our industry prepare for, and ultimately prevent a national crisis.” The Act will provide additional funding for three important animal health programs established through the 2018 Farm Bill, including the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program, and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. “Together, these three form a three-legged stool that represents our strategy for protecting the cattle and beef industries,” Wilkinson adds. *********************************************************************************** First Quarter Solid for Some Animal Product Exports A USDA report says a comparison between first-quarter 2023 exports of seven animal products with the exports from the same time last year shows some improvement. Four of the categories were year-over-year higher and three were lower so far during this year. In the first quarter of 2023, lamb and mutton exports were up 31 percent, pork was up eight percent, broilers 2.5 percent higher, and dairy product exports were six percent higher than in 2022. USDA says the increases were due mostly to favorable prices and the depreciating value of the dollar. Beef and veal exports were eight percent lower than last year because of lower U.S. production in cattle-producing areas hit by extended drought. Egg and egg-product shipments were 22 percent lower than last year, and turkey exports were 21 percent lower. Fewer egg and turkey shipments were caused by export restrictions related to high pathogenic avian influenza.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 19, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets With the 2023 Hard Winter Wheat Quality Tour wrapped up and the Black Sea grain deal extended for another two months, will we see a quieter grain market Friday? Traders will keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts, but are developing low expectations for export business. USDA's cattle on-feed report for May 1 is due out at 2 p.m. CDT and many expect the on-feed total to be down almost 4% from a year ago. Weather A front is found from the Central Plains through the central Midwest Friday morning, producing some scattered showers in the Midwest, but heavy rain in the Southern Plains. Morning showers will die out across the Plains but redevelop over the south later in the day, which may become severe. Across the Midwest, showers will be lighter. A brief shot of colder air and smoke from Canadian wildfires are following behind the front.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 18, 2023 |
House Ag Spending Bill Released, Markup Thursday The House Agriculture Appropriations bill released this week provides $26.3 billion for total funding, $532 million below the 2023 funding level. The bill provides $17.1 billion to the Department of Agriculture, which is $8.6 billion below current fiscal year spending and $11.7 billion below the budget request. The bill also provides $8.1 billion in funding repurposed from unobligated balances from pandemic-era programs. Conservative leaders in the House say the bill reins in wasteful spending by redirecting billions in American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act funding to help America’s producers and rural communities. The changes include a $32 billion decrease in mandatory SNAP spending from FY23 levels due to the end of increased pandemic-era benefits and a decrease in participation rates. The proposal also eliminates funding for equity initiatives and climate change, and saves $1 billion by restricting the discretionary use of the Commodity Credit Corporation. The House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee was scheduled to markup the bill Thursday morning. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Protect Farms from Feral Hogs Lawmakers this week in the Senate introduced the Feral Swine Eradication Act. The legislation would extend and make permanent a pilot program to safeguard public health, agriculture, and local ecosystems against the threat of feral swine. Senators Tommy Tuberville, an Alabama Republican and John Cornyn, A Texas Republican, introduced the bill. Tuberville says, "Over the past five years, feral swine have impacted more than 173,000 acres in Alabama, yet the pigs are still running rampant throughout the South." There are approximately six million feral hogs across the United States, which cause more than $1.5 billion in damages each year. The Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program was established in the 2018 Farm Bill to respond to rampant feral swine outbreaks and was implemented by the Department of Agriculture. The program includes feral swine removal, restoration efforts, and assistance to producers for feral swine control through grants with non-federal partners. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Committee Advances Torres Small Nomination The Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday advanced the nomination of Xochitl Torres Small to be Deputy Secretary of Agriculture to the full Senate for consideration. Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, " Ms. Torres Small has a proven track record and a wide-ranging background that make her an ideal candidate to help lead the nearly 100,000 public servants at USDA." Ranking Member John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican, added, "She has shown herself to be a thoughtful leader while overseeing the rural development mission, and I believe those qualities will be an asset in this new role." Torres Small was confirmed by the United States Senate to serve as the Under Secretary for Rural Development on October 7, 2021. She was nominated to serve as Deputy Secretary by President Joe Biden in February following the resignation announcement by Jewel Bronaugh, who stepped away from the role to spend more time with family. *********************************************************************************** Truterra Pays $9 Million to Carbon Sequestering Farmers Truterra, LLC Thursday announced the results of its carbon program for 2022, which paid more than $5.1 million to farmers for approximately 262,000 metric tons of carbon stored. In the first two years of the program, Truterra has paid more than $9 million to farmers for over 462,000 metric tons of carbon. Truterra President Tom Ryan says, “By working with and through farmer's trusted advisor, the carbon program has continued to achieve great success in its second year.” The company reports that 273 farmers participating in the 2022 carbon program, receiving an average total payment per participating farmer of over $18,000. Truterra is a self-described leading sustainability solutions provider, advancing and connecting sustainability efforts throughout the food system at scale – from farmers to ag retailers to value chain collaborators, including food and fiber companies. Truterra was launched in 2016 by Land O'Lakes, Inc., a member-owned cooperative that spans the spectrum from agricultural production to consumer foods. *********************************************************************************** Food Spending Decreased Unevenly Across States in 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic in the United States disrupted the food industry in 2020, according to fresh data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. Inflation-adjusted total U.S. food expenditures were 6.6 percent lower in 2020 than in 2019. However, individual states experienced varying degrees of food spending decline. The ERS developed State-level Food Expenditure Series helps to illustrate annual food spending changes across States since 1997, including Washington, DC. From 2019 to 2020, each state saw decreases in inflation-adjusted, per capita total food spending. The smallest decreases in food spending were in Iowa, South Carolina, and North Carolina. The states that saw the largest decreases in inflation-adjusted, per-capita food spending were Hawaii, Washington, DC, Florida, and Nevada. These states typically have large out-of-state population inflows from nonresident workers and tourists. The spending changes occurred as health concerns and mobility restrictions during the first year of the pandemic led consumers to spend less at restaurants and other eating-out establishments. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Building Trust with Youth The dairy checkoff is bringing a new approach to building trust with young Americans by helping high school curriculum writers across the country incorporate accurate science behind dairy farming. The “On The Farm STEM” experience is co-funded by National Dairy Council and Midwest Dairy. The effort brings leading science educators and curriculum directors to dairy farms to discover ideas that can fit into high school curriculum. Ultimately, the program, created in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, will offer a science-based counterbalance to misunderstanding about how dairy is responsibly produced by farmers and its contributions to health and wellness. National Dairy Council’s Lindsay Datlow says, “With education and action, today’s youth will be empowered to understand how dairy foods fit into an overall healthy and sustainable food system.” Some dairy-focused classroom materials already are being used in school pilot programs. The curriculum is expected to be implemented in several states by early 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 18, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report 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 home sales and U.S. leading indicators for April are due at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. After Russia agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal Wednesday, traders will be watching for shipments out of Ukraine and the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is moving through the Upper Midwest down through the Central Plains on Thursday with scattered showers likely, especially during the afternoon. Moisture ahead of the front should be good enough to produce widespread precipitation across western Kansas and the Panhandles which could be heavy, helping to ease drought conditions in these areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 17, 2023 |
Biden Administration Announces $11 Billion Clean Energy Investment The Biden Administration Tuesday announced the availability of nearly $11 billion in grants and loan opportunities to help rural energy and utility providers. The funding will help bring affordable, reliable, clean energy to communities across the country. The announcement is the single largest investment in rural electrification since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act into law in 1936. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says that through the effort, the administration is "supporting thousands of new jobs and helping lower energy costs in the future." Funding is available through two programs under the Inflation Reduction Act. Specifically, the Department of Agriculture will open a Letter of Interest process for the Empowering Rural America program, making $9.7 billion available to eligible rural electric. USDA will also open a Letter of Interest process for the Powering Affordable Clean Energy program, making $1 billion available in partially forgivable loans to renewable-energy developers and electric service providers. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Black Sea Trade Vulnerability Dashboard The Department of Agriculture Tuesday released a dashboard demonstrating the scope of Black Sea grain and oilseed trade. USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service says millions of tons of grain are shipped through the region annually, making the Black Sea region a major supplier of agricultural commodities worldwide. The dashboard demonstrates the impacts Black Sea trade disruption can have on food access in various countries. The analysis focuses on key commodities, including barley, corn, soybean oil, sunflower seed oil, and wheat. For each country, the largest suppliers are shown, which allows the dashboard to illustrate the potential impact of Russia's war in Ukraine. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis M. Taylor, says, "By looking at the Vulnerabilities to Trade Disruption dashboard, it becomes very clear how big an impact Russia's war has on food security in countries." The dashboard and all other USDA FAS tools and reports are available at www.fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Socially Disadvantaged farms Concentrated in South and West Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers tend to be more concentrated in southern and western regions of the country. USDA defines socially disadvantaged farmers as those belonging to groups subject to racial or ethnic prejudice. In some counties, the proportion of operations classified as racially or ethnically socially disadvantaged is more than 58 percent, such as in parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Florida. Overall, socially disadvantaged farms accounted for 9.4 percent of the two million farms in the United States. In 2017, 1.3 percent of all producers identified themselves as Black or African American only, 1.7 percent identified as American Indian or Alaska Native only, 0.6 percent identified as Asian only, 0.1 percent as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only, and 0.8 percent of all producers reported more than one race. In addition, 3.3 percent of all producers of any race indicated Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin. *********************************************************************************** 2022 National Beef Quality Audit Shows Efficiency Improvements The beef cattle industry is producing a high-quality product that consumers want more efficiently. NCBA this week announced the findings as part of the 2022 Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit results. Since 1991, the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit has delivered a set of guideposts and measurements for cattle producers to help determine quality conformance of the U.S. beef supply. NCBA's Josh White says, "The NBQA is an important tool for the industry to identify where improvements are being made and where there are opportunities to capture more value.” When comparing 2016 and 2022 NBQAs, the largest improvement was overall increased efficiency across the beef supply chain. Key findings include market segments no longer consider food safety as a purchasing criterion, but as an expectation, and market sectors indicated that their companies strive to increase their sustainability. The NBQA, conducted approximately every five years, provides an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors, and the value of those quality attributes. *********************************************************************************** Certified Angus Beef Expands Offering with Grass-Fed Beef Consumer demand for high-quality beef has been a long-time sales driver for Certified Angus Beef, and ultimately, it has increased demand for superior Angus genetics. As consumer preferences evolve, the brand is growing to provide premium beef for every liking. And now, that will include a grass-fed option: Certified Angus Beef Grass-Fed by Niman Ranch. Certified Angus Beef President John Stika says, “This product will represent a small portion of total sales, but it's an important addition that helps us meet the needs of consumers who have different preferences.” The Certified Angus Beef Grass-Fed by Niman Ranch product will make up less than one percent of the total CAB supply. A niche product, the grass-fed, natural beef will initially only be available through a few, exclusive restaurants and grocery stores. Consistent with all Certified Angus Beef brand products, the grass-fed beef must meet all ten specifications to qualify for the brand. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Ask Automakers to Keep AM Radio A group of more than 100 lawmakers this week signed a letter to automakers expressing concerns about the removal and planned removal of AM radio receivers in vehicles. Representative Greg Pence, an Indiana Republican, led the effort, and says, “If automakers are seeking to remove access to AM radio, my constituents deserve an explanation as to how this could impact their lives and public safety.” The letter highlights the need of rural Americans to access AM radio, given limited internet and cell phone connectivity. The letter states, “We urge you to maintain AM radio receivers in all vehicles and prioritize consumers and public safety.” Federal data shows that more than 75 radio stations, mostly AM stations, cover at least 90 percent of the U.S. population and are equipped with backup communications equipment for broadcasting during public emergencies. There have been reports that automakers, including Ford, Volkswagen, BMW, Mazda, Volvo, Tesla, Polestar, Rivian, GM, and Mercedes Benz, removed, or are planning to remove, broadcast AM radio receivers from all-electric vehicles.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 17, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in April is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and watch for any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal. Weather An old front and humid weather will produce scattered showers in the Southeast on Wednesday. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will develop in the High Plains ahead of a cold front that is moving through the Northern Plains. The front is producing scattered light showers, not enough to impact planting for too many areas today
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 16, 2023 |
Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Classify Corn as an Advanced Biofuel New legislation introduced Monday in the House of Representatives would allow for ethanol from corn starch to qualify as an advanced biofuel. The Fuels Parity Act would also require the Environmental Protection Agency to use the Argonne GREET model to determine the greenhouse gas emission profile of biofuels under the RFS. Corn is currently prohibited from qualifying as an advanced biofuel, even if it can meet the required scientific thresholds, by a provision in the 2007 RFS expansion known as the “corn discrimination clause.” No other feedstock is limited – only corn starch used for ethanol. Allowing corn to qualify as an advanced biofuel would incentivize lower emissions from ethanol production and allow corn to access another bucket of the RFS. If ethanol can meet the scientific thresholds, then it should be allowed to qualify as an advanced biofuel and generate an advanced biofuel RIN, according to lawmakers introducing the legislation. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Ethanol Bill Would Level the Playing Field The National Corn Growers Association supports the Fuels Parity Act introduced in the House of Representative's Monday. NCGA President Tom Haag says the legislation "Recognizes the declining carbon intensity of today's low-carbon ethanol and helps level the playing field." Published analysis from the Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory concludes corn ethanol's carbon intensity decreased 23 percent from 2005 to 2019 due to increased corn yield, reduced fertilizer intensity and improved ethanol production efficiency, with corn ethanol now between 44 and 52 percent lower in carbon intensity than the gasoline it replaces. Argonne's analysis is consistent with recent research from Environmental Health and Engineering that corn ethanol today is 46 percent lower in carbon intensity than gasoline, with the potential for further reductions from additional corn feedstock and production process improvements. Under the law, advanced biofuels must deliver a 50 percent or more reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline, a requirement today's ethanol now meets. *********************************************************************************** New Survey Reveals Farmer Use of Automation Growers now spend an average of $500,000 a year on automation in response to the persistent ag labor shortage. Western Growers discovered the data in its Specialty Crop Automation Report. The report, which tracks and measures industry progress in harvest automation across the fresh produce industry, is part of the Western Growers Global Harvest Automation Initiative, which aims to accelerate ag automation by 50 percent in ten years. Most progress was made in the weeding and harvest assist segments; market-ready solutions are able to meet grower economic targets and alleviate key challenges, such as lack of labor availability. Growers reported ROIs for weeding solutions of less than one to two years, depending on the type of crop and technology used. Growers want more trained agtech personnel, with 50 percent indicating that they had internal employees who dedicated the majority of their time to the integration of automation investments. *********************************************************************************** Groundwater Organizations see Nitrate Contamination As Top Concern New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds that 30 percent of groundwater organizations cite nitrate contamination as a groundwater quality concern. Nitrates can come from animal manure and chemical fertilizers that leach into groundwater. When groundwater pumping exceeds the volume of groundwater recharge, the concentration of contaminants like nitrates can increase. Nitrate contamination is a concern on more than half of the groundwater-fed irrigated acreage within groundwater organization service areas. USDA’s Survey of Irrigation Organizations collected information on the estimated 735 local entities that manage on-farm groundwater use through statutory, regulatory, or other powers. While nitrate contamination was the most common groundwater quality concern reported, contamination by salinity, other nutrients, and heavy metals are a concern for 27, 19, and 18 percent of groundwater organizations, respectively. USDA’s Economic Research Service says contaminated groundwater can harm crops or make the water unusable for irrigation entirely. *********************************************************************************** Rodale Institute Applauds USDA Investments in Organic Farmers The Department of Agriculture is expanding opportunities for organic farmers, a welcome investment, according to the Rodale Institute. USDA announced the expanded opportunities last week. Through the newly-established Organic Market Development Grant Program, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will issue up to $75 million in competitive grants to fund projects designed to expand and improve markets for domestically produced organic products. In addition, the Farm Service agency increased the cost share amount under the Organic Certification Cost Share Program, which helps organic producers cover organic certification costs, to the maximum amount allowed by statute. Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach says, “Consumer demand for organic products is growing rapidly and the USDA’s support will help American farmers meet the needs of the market.” Recent USDA data shows farms and ranches in the United States sold over $11 billion in certified organic commodities in 2021, a 13 percent increase from 2019. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Edge Higher, Diesel Lower For the first time in several weeks, the nation's average gasoline price increased, rising four cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average is down 14.9 cents from a month ago and 95.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell four cents in the last week and stands at $3.97 per gallon, $1.59 lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "We're likely to soon see gasoline prices slip to their largest year-on-year deficit since COVID hit, when prices fell over $1 per gallon from 2019, so the relief at the pump has been significant." With continued discussion over the U.S. hitting its debt limit, oil prices have seen additional volatility. De Haan adds that it’s looking more likely that, barring a major hurricane or series of refinery outages, the national average may not end up hitting the $4 per gallon mark.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 16, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for April is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and watch for any update of the Black Sea grain deal. Weather A small system is moving east along the Ohio Valley, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which may be heavy and severe. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected to pop up to the south of this system as well across the Gulf Coast and Southeast. Drier weather elsewhere will help to dry out areas that were flooded last week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |
USDA Releases U.S. Crop Production Outlook USDA projects a record U.S. corn crop of 15.3 billion bushels, up over 10 percent on increases to both area and yield. The yield projection is 181.5 bushels per acre. The 2023-2024 corn outlook calls for larger production, greater domestic use and exports, and higher ending stocks. Total corn supplies are forecast at 16.7 billion bushels. The season-average farm price is expected to be $4.80 a bushel, down $1.80 from the prior year. The U.S. soybean crop will be 4.51 billion bushels, up five percent from last year on higher yields. Soybean supplies are projected to be up four percent to 4.75 billion bushels. The season-average soybean price is forecast more than $2 lower at $12.10 per bushel. The USDA’s all-wheat production is forecast at 1.65 million bushels, up slightly from the previous year. The all-wheat yield is projected at 44.7 bushels, and the season-average price is down to $8 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Credit Conditions Strong as Interest Rates Climb Agricultural credit conditions in the Tenth District of the Kansas City Fed remained strong, and farm real estate values continued to increase. However, growth has softened. While improvements in farm finances and credit conditions steadied and some lenders expected a deterioration in the months ahead, multiple years of strong incomes continued to keep credit stress low. The outlook for the U.S. farm economy in 2023 remained favorable as prices of key commodities were at multi-year highs. Financial performance and liquidity at agricultural banks remained solid and farm lenders appeared well-positioned to meet higher credit demand through the early months of this year. Farm loan interest rates rose alongside further increases in benchmark rates. The average rate charged on agricultural loans was about 30 basis points higher than the previous quarter and almost 300 basis points higher than a year ago. The farm real estate market has softened as interest rates rose. *********************************************************************************** More Reaction to Supreme Court’s Prop 12 Decision The Supreme Court decision upholding California’s Prop 12 continues to draw strong reactions from America’s agricultural stakeholders. Kansas Republican Senator Roger Marshall says he’s disappointed in the Court’s decision not to strike down Prop 12. “We can’t allow radical state laws to dictate the agricultural practices in every other state,” Marshall says. “This will only increase food costs for people already suffering from food insecurity and drive farmers and ranchers out of business.” Marshall plans to re-introduce his Exposing Agricultural Trade Suppression Act which will prohibit state and local governments from interfering with agricultural production in other states. Iowa’s Ag Secretary Mike Naig says this decision opens the door for the largest states to dictate laws and regulations to the rest of America. “While the ruling was focused on agriculture, it will certainly creep into other industries,” he says. “It will drive the cost of production and food prices higher.” *********************************************************************************** More Elected Officials Concerned About Lack of AM Radio in New Cars Representatives Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin and Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey sent a bipartisan letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding the future of AM radio in new vehicles. They expressed concerns over auto makers’ decision to drop AM radio access in the new electric vehicles that will be coming to market. The members talked about the important role that AM radio plays in providing life-saving information to the public. They also asked FEMA to outline what impact this would have on the nation’s Emergency Alert System and what steps the agency is taking to prevent this from happening in future vehicle models. “AM radio has extensive geographic reach, including areas where there’s little cell service or broadband internet access,” they say in the letter. “Given the growth in electric vehicle sales, it’s vital that FEMA makes clear the impact that no AM radios will have on public safety.” *********************************************************************************** Industry Groups Want More Biomass-Based Diesel in RFS Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America joined four other trade associations in sending a letter to EPA administrator Michael Regan regarding biofuel volumes in the Renewable Fuels Standard. They want the EPA chief to substantially raise the biomass-based diesel and overall advanced biofuel volumes in the RFS for 2023-2025. The letter highlights the need for strong RFS volumes to support the goals of the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. “Our industries need these fuels to decarbonize air transport, long-haul shipping and trucking, home heating, and to meet the needs of our customers and supply chain partners,” the letter says. “The proposed RFS volumes are simply inconsistent with the investments our industries will make to continue expanding production and commercial availability of these fuels by 2025.” The groups also say in the letter that their industries continue to make significant investments in producing, distributing, and using low-carbon fuels, but more can be done. *********************************************************************************** Groups Urge Congress to Reject Increases in Farm Subsidies A group of taxpayer, agriculture, and environmental organizations held a press conference to urge Congressional leadership to reject attempts to increase reference prices for covered commodities. The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition was one of the groups who opposed raising the Price Loss Coverage reference prices in the 2023 Farm Bill at a time when gross farm income is higher than ever. “Taxpayer commodity program subsidies were designed as a safety net tool, triggered when necessary, to help protect against unpredictable losses that are a part of farming,” says Billy Hackett, NSAC Policy Specialist. “It’s not an annual entitlement program for the country’s most successful farms. Ten percent of the farms get 70 percent of the subsidies and throwing money at an unsustainable system is no solution.” The other organizations taking part in the press conference included the Environmental Working Group, FreedomWorks, the National Taxpayers Union, Farm Action, and several others.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Wheat Tour Highlights Coverage OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of May 14. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Kansas wheat tour: Crop tours are always highly anticipated, but for certain this year commodity markets are listening for how bad conditions are in hard red winter wheat country. We'll report from the annual Wheat Quality Council Hard Winter Wheat Tour starting Tuesday night, with mid-day updates and a full report from tour scouts each evening Tuesday and Wednesday. Final numbers will be available late-morning Thursday. 2. Markets respond to bullish news: We'll continue to track the market's response to Friday's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, which sent wheat futures skyward, and what the wheat tour adds to that. There is also continued news coming on Brazil's safrina (second-crop) corn. 3. Change in the weather patterns: The trough of low pressure that has been situated over the West, supplying energy to fire off the past week's thunderstorms, is about to shift. DTN weather forecasters expect a ridge over the West, heating up western North America. At the same time, a new trough moves into Eastern Canada, chilling that area as well as the Midwest and Northeast. We'll watch for bursts of cold that carry a slight chance for frost in far northern U.S. and Canadian Prairies. 4. Ukraine grain deal: In an ongoing issue, we'll again watch for the latest in the Russia-Ukraine grain sales agreement, set to expire May 18. As the AP has reported, the deal has been extended twice so far, and Ukraine officials and allies are seeking another extension to continue the flow of grain to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Russia continues to balk at those extensions, pushing to tie renewed ability to move its fertilizer supplies into the market stream. 5. Economic reports fill the week: Monday sees the ongoing USDA Crop Progress and grain export inspections reports, as well as soybean crush reports. On the broader economy, April retail sales and industrial production numbers hit Tuesday, with housing starts and Energy Department inventory numbers on Wednesday. Thursday sees weekly U.S. jobless claims, existing home sales and the April U.S. index of leading indicator numbers. May's Cattle on Feed report hits Friday, with DTN analysis coming in that afternoon.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking for any movement of news on the Black Sea grain initiative and taking in the latest weather forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by a soybean crush report from the National Oilseeds Processors Association later Monday morning. USDA's Crop Progress report will have new estimates of planting progress at 3 p.m. Weather A small system in the Ozarks is producing areas of showers for the Southern Plains into the southwestern Corn Belt Monday morning and will spread more showers through these areas and into the Ohio Valley Monday night. Some isolated showers may pop up in the West and through the Southeast as well. Drier conditions are forecast for northern zones into Canada.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 12, 2023 |
Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Prop 12 The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a challenge to California’s Prop 12. The law bans the sale of pork from pigs that are kept in tightly confined spaces. The justices voted 5-4 to uphold a lower court’s decision to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau that sought to invalidate the law. The groups argued that the measure violated a U.S. constitutional provision called the Commerce Clause that courts say gives the federal government the power to regulate interstate commerce, not the states themselves. “While the Constitution addresses many weighty issues, the type of pork chops California merchants may sell is not on that list,” wrote conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, who authored the Court’s main opinion. The Prop 12 measure was approved by California voters in 2018. It bans in-state sales of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose confinements didn’t meet space requirements. *********************************************************************************** Reaction to Supreme Court Decision on Prop 12 The National Pork Producers Council reacted negatively to the Supreme Court’s decision on California’s Prop 12. “We are very disappointed with the Supreme Court’s opinion,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president. “Allowing state overreach will increase prices for consumers and drive small farms out of business, leading to more consolidation.” NPPC is still evaluating the Court’s full opinion to fully understand all the implications. “We will continue fighting for our pork farmers and American families against misguided regulations,” Hays adds. Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the U.S., says she’s “delighted” that the Supreme Court upheld California’s Prop 12. “It’s the nation’s strongest farm animal welfare law, and the Court made clear that preventing animal cruelty and protecting public health are core functions of our state governments,” she says. Also, HS-USA “won’t stop fighting until the pork industry stops confining sows in cages so small they can’t turn around.” *********************************************************************************** Senators Slam Plant-Based Dairy Labeling Senators Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Jim Risch of Idaho led a bipartisan group in calling out the administration’s draft guidance on labeling non-dairy product imitators. The Biden administration’s guidance allows non-dairy products to use dairy names like milk when labeling their products. The Food and Drug Administration contradicted its own regulations by releasing guidance that would allow plant-based products to continue using dairy terms despite not containing dairy or having the nutritional value of dairy products. “The inaction by FDA harms public health as a result of consumer misperception over dairy products’ inherent nutritional value,” the Senators wrote. “As a result, it’s imperative that FDA enforce existing standards of identity for dairy in both current and future guidance.” The two senators have led the charge to crack down on imitation products using dairy’s name. They authored bipartisan legislation called the Dairy Pride Act to combat the unfair labeling practice. *********************************************************************************** Combine Sales Continued Growing in April Combine harvester sales in the U.S. and Canada continued growing while total tractor sales declined below the five-year average. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag tractor unit sales decreased in April, down 16 percent year-over-year. Unit sales of four-wheel-drive tractors climbed 54 percent higher, and the 100-plus horsepower segment sales climbed five percent. U.S. self-propelled combine sales grew 23 percent for the month, leading to a year-to-date gain of 72 percent. Sales dropped in both the sub-40 horsepower segment by 20 percent, and the 40-100 horsepower segment dropped 13 percent during April. In Canada, combine harvester sales continued growing, up 51 percent in April and 133 percent year-to-date. Total unit sales in tractors finished the month down 25 percent due to continued losses in all tractor segments. Curt Blades of AEM says, “Strong commodity prices are behind increases in the sales of the larger segments of tractors and harvesters.” *********************************************************************************** Ag Innovation Challenge Deadline Extended The American Farm Bureau Federation has extended the deadline to May 26 for entrepreneurs to apply online for the 2024 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The tenth year of this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to the challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Farm Bureau is offering $165,000 in startup funds through the course of the competition, which will culminate in the top ten semi-finalists competing in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors, and industry representatives at the 2024 Farm Bureau National Convention. “Start-up companies like those we recognize through the Ag Innovation Challenge play an important role in the future of American agriculture,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. Detailed eligibility guidelines and the competition timeline can be found at fb.org/challenge. “Farmers rely on continuous improvements powered by innovation to keep providing food, fuel, and fiber,” Duvall says. *********************************************************************************** South Korea Hit by Foot and Mouth Outbreak Authorities in South Korea have ordered the culling of several hundred cattle and put biosecurity measures in place after cases of foot and mouth disease were found in a central province. The Cattle Site says the cases marked the first confirmed outbreak of FMD since January 2019. The current contagion occurred on three farms in a province south of Seoul, the country’s capital. The South Korean Vice Ag Minister says related agencies and local governments were asked to make all-out efforts on preventative measures to stop the further spread of foot and mouth disease. A team was sent to the area to investigate the outbreak, disinfect farms in surrounding areas, and put a 48-hour hold in place on all movement of people or livestock in the area. Foot and Mouth is highly transmissible and causes lesions and lameness in cattle, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed animals. Authorities plan to cull 360 cattle.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 12, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. CDT Friday. But, for grain traders, the highlights of the day are out at 11 a.m. CDT, when USDA releases its WASDE and Crop Production reports. Traders will also check the latest weather forecasts, watch for any export activity and for any news regarding the extension of the Black Sea grain deal. Weather An upper-level system is meandering in the Plains, spreading showers and thunderstorms across the Plains into the Midwest down to the Southeast on Friday. Rain is slow-moving, causing some heavy rain and potential for flooding. Areas in the northern half of the Plains and across parts of Texas stand the best chance at seeing meaningful, heavy rain that could ease drought conditions. But those same showers could become severe storms with the focus around eastern Nebraska and western Iowa for the greatest threats.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 11, 2023 |
Consumer Price Index Increases, Grocery Story Prices Lower The Consumer Price Index rose again in April, but grocery store prices for food declined. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.4 percent in April. The overall food index was unchanged in April, as the food at home index fell 0.2 percent over the month, following a 0.3-percent decrease in March. Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month. The index for fruits and vegetables decreased 0.5 percent in April, and the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs declined 0.3 percent. The dairy and related products index decreased 0.7 percent in April as the milk index fell 2.0 percent, the largest decline in that index since February 2015. The nonalcoholic beverages index declined 0.1 percent over the month. In contrast, the index for other food at home rose 0.2 percent in April, following a 0.4-percent increase the previous month. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Steps to Enhance Organic Markets, Support Producers The Department of Agriculture is taking additional steps to strengthen the market for domestically grown organic goods and support producers seeking organic certification. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced funding opportunities through USDA's Organic Transition Initiative. Launched in 2022, the program helps existing organic farmers and those transitioning to organic production and processing. Vilsack says, "For many farmers, the transition period before attaining organic certification can be cost-prohibitive, so USDA is also helping mitigate the risk involved for farmers who want to be able to grow and market organic crops." USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service will issue up to $75 million in competitive grants through the new Organic Market Development Grant Program. The Farm Service Agency increased the cost share amount under the Organic Certification Cost Share Program as part of USDA's broader effort to support organic producers. Specifically, FSA will cover up to 75 percent of costs associated with organic certification. *********************************************************************************** Booker-Grassley Bill Offers CRP Reforms Bipartisan legislation introduced by New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker and Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley in the Senate would change the Conservation Reserve Program. The Conservation Reserve Program Reform Act would prioritize enrolling marginal farmland in the CRP, rather than prime farmland. The lawmakers say the legislation would generate more durable wildlife and environmental benefits while reducing competition for productive farmland between the Department of Agriculture and farmers, especially new and beginning farmers. Senator Grassley says, “The reforms in this bill ensure that CRP is not used on highly-productive farmland and instead focus the program on highly-erodible land.” The CRP Reform Act would set CRP's overall acreage cap at 24 million acres for fiscal year 2024 to 2028, with an emphasis on enrolling marginal land. The bill would increase incentives to enroll marginal farmland through the continuous enrollment and grasslands categories while reducing the rental rate for general CRP sign-ups by ten percent. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Biofuels Should be Used to Lower Auto Emissions The National Corn Growers Association urges the Environmental Protection Agency to use biofuels to reduce automobile emissions. NCGA Chairman Chris Edgington testified to the EPA during a public hearing earlier this week regarding EPA's proposed Multi-Pollutant Emission Standards for model years 2027-2032. Edgington expressed frustration that EPA only looked at one solution, electric vehicles, to lower greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions. The NCGA leader says, "EPA's proposal limits the ability of clean, low-carbon ethanol to contribute greater emission reductions and support affordable options." Edgington encouraged EPA to address the serious limitations of its proposal and work with NCGA to level the playing field and advance the needed rulemaking to improve fuel standards. Edgington added, “Clean, high-octane fuel from mid-level ethanol blends, used as a system with advanced engines, offers an essential pathway for achieving significant greenhouse gas and complementary criteria emission reductions from model year 2027 and later vehicles.” *********************************************************************************** Gene-Editing Produces First Calf Resistant to Viral Disease Scientists have collaborated to produce the first gene-edited calf with resistance to bovine viral diarrhea virus, a virus that costs the U.S. cattle sector billions of dollars annually. Over the past 20 years, the scientific community discovered the main cellular receptor and the area where the virus binds to that receptor, causing infection in cows. Scientists modified the virus binding site in this recent study to block infection. The first gene-edited calf, named Ginger, was born healthy on July 19, 2021. The calf was observed for several months and then later challenged with the virus to determine if she could become infected. She was housed for a week with a BVDV-infected dairy calf that was born shedding the virus. Ginger's cells displayed significantly reduced susceptibility to BVDV, which resulted in no observable adverse health effects. USDA says the study demonstrates the possibility of reducing the burden of bovine viral diarrhea virus-associated diseases in cattle by gene editing. *********************************************************************************** Apples and Oranges Top U.S. Fruit Choices Apples held the top spot for total fruit available for consumption in 2021 at more than 26 pounds per person after adjusting for losses. USDA’s Economic Research Service’s loss-adjusted food availability data adjusts food availability data for food spoilage, plate waste, and other losses to more closely approximate actual consumption. People in the United States consumed an average of 1.7 gallons of apple juice, roughly nine pounds of fresh apples, and a total of 3.1 pounds of canned, dried, and frozen apples in 2021. Among the top seven consumed fruits in 2021, apples were the only fruit in which data were available for all five forms, fresh, canned, frozen, dried, and juice. Pineapples were the only other canned option among these seven fruits for which data were available, while strawberries were the only other frozen fruit. Bananas, at 13.2 pounds per person, topped the list of most popular fresh fruits, while orange juice, at 1.9 gallons, was the most popular fruit juice.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 11, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, producer prices for April and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and check for either export sales announcements or cancellations at 8 a.m. Weather A weakening upper-level system is slowly moving into the Plains and already has produced areas of heavy rain and severe weather since Wednesday afternoon. More of the same will occur Thursday, though a bit farther east than Wednesday. Some of the driest areas of the country are finding some good rainfall, though rain is not coming to all places. Still, this is an excellent boost to soil moisture for a lot of areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 10, 2023 |
EIA Expects Less Electricity Demand this Summer, More Generation from Renewables The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects a slightly cooler summer in 2023 will lead to less demand for air conditioning than in 2022. The result will slightly reduce overall electricity demand this summer. EIA expects that despite less electricity demand this summer, more electricity will be generated from renewable sources and natural gas throughout 2023. EIA forecasts this summer will see the second-most U.S. natural gas consumption for electricity generation on record, surpassed only by last summer. EIA continues to expect significant growth in U.S. electricity generation from wind and solar, but the wet winter in California and the western United States should also increase electricity generated from hydropower during the coming months. EIA expects U.S. retail electricity costs will remain higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Those higher prices mean that even if households consume less electricity, their electricity bills will likely be similar to or slightly higher than last summer. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeking American Agriculture Feeds Kids and Families Acquisitions The Department of Agriculture plans to purchase various protein items to support activities to leverage American Agriculture to feed kids and families. Potential materials may include dairy, meat, fish, and poultry items. The funds, provided through USDA's Commodity Credit Corporation, will support nearly $1 billion to purchase food for emergency food providers like food banks. The purchases are phase two of the program. Interested parties shall be responsible for ensuring that they have the most up-to-date information about this acquisition. The contract type is anticipated to be firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/definite quantity. Commodities and the products of agricultural commodities acquired under this contract must be a product of the United States and shall be considered to be such a product if it is grown, processed, and otherwise prepared for sale or distribution exclusively in the United States. Potential contractors must meet the AMS vendor qualification requirements to be eligible to submit offers. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Urges USDA to Accept Petition for FMMO Hearing The American Farm Bureau Federation urges the Department of Agriculture to accept the National Milk Producers Federation Federal Milk Marketing Order petition. AFBF says the petition provides a long-overdue comprehensive Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing to ensure that consumers can access fresh milk and dairy products while protecting dairy farmers from potentially harmful market conditions. AFBF President Zippy Duvall calls on USDA to hold a hearing on FMMO reform and asks the department to go further than a recent NMPF petition by asking for mandatory, audited surveys of dairy processors to be used when determining the make allowances factored into dairy pricing. The letter indicates USDA's authority to conduct a mandatory audit under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act. This change and the need for additional reforms were part of a farmer consensus formed at the AFBF-hosted FMMO Forum held in Kansas City, Missouri, last October. NMPF filed its petition on May 1, and USDA must respond to the petition within 30 days. *********************************************************************************** Research: Tinplate Steel Tariffs Will Harm American Consumers The Consumer Brands Association says implementing proposed tariffs of up to 300 percent on tinplate steel imports would increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 30 percent. The association released two studies on the proposal, which would threaten nearly 40,000 union and non-union manufacturing jobs. The economic impact studies bolster Consumer Brands’ efforts to urge the Department of Commerce and International Trade Commission (I to deny a petition submitted by steel conglomerate Cleveland-Cliffs to impose tariffs of up to 300% on imported tinplate steel from eight countries. Because tinplate is used in hundreds of canned goods – everything from soup to shaving cream – imposing the requested tariffs would raise production costs for U.S. can manufacturers and trigger price hikes for every consumer, as supported by the research. According to the research, the proposed tariffs will increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 58 cents per product. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Imports of Cut Flowers Grew to $3.3 Billion in 2022 Fresh-cut flowers and plants are popular gifts for special occasions such as Mother’s Day. Many bouquets contain flowers grown in countries where cool, wet climates have historically favored production. In 2022, the United States imported nearly $3.3 billion of cut flowers, plants, and nursery stock products from 81 countries, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Imports of fresh-cut roses totaled more than $800 million, while other fresh-cut flowers were valued at a combined $1.1 billion. Live plant imports were valued at nearly $860 million, and imports of other nursery stock products, such as bulbs and greenery, were valued at $492 million. Of the many countries supplying flowers and other nursery stock, Colombia made up the largest import value at $1.2 billion. From 2018 to 2022, Colombia provided about 37 percent of U.S. cut flower and nursery stock value. Other leading suppliers in 2022 included Canada, Ecuador, and the European Union, as well as Mexico, Taiwan, and Costa Rica. *********************************************************************************** USDA, Colorado Introduce Conservation Practice to Address Drought Concerns The Department of Agriculture and Colorado are continuing and strengthening their Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program partnership. Announced this week, the effort supports farmers in Colorado in reducing water use and protecting water quality. Specifically, the newly revised Colorado Republican River project will offer producers a dryland crop production practice on eligible cropland. This option will give producers meaningful tools to continue farming as they work toward permanently retiring water rights and conserving the Ogallala Aquifer for future generations. Through the revised Colorado Republican River Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program partnership, USDA and the State of Colorado will make resources available to program participants who voluntarily enroll in CRP for 14-year to 15-year contracts. The program provides participants with two ways to enroll eligible land. Producers can enroll eligible land in “CP100, Annual Crop Production, Non-Irrigated.” Additionally, participants within the Republican River CREP project area may enroll eligible land in “CP2, Permanent Native Grasses,” “CP4D, Permanent Wildlife Habitat,” and “CP23 or CP23A, Wetland Restoration.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 10, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the U.S. Labor Department will release the consumer price index for April, a number that will get a lot of attention regarding the future of interest rates. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol, will follow at 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for April at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding grain shipments in the Black Sea. Weather Waves of showers that have been developing this week continue in the Plains on Wednesday and will spread through more of the region tonight as a weak system in the West approaches. Another batch of showers across the western Gulf of Mexico will move north through the South-Central U.S. throughout the day as well. Other sporadic showers will be possible, but a drier stretch will lead to a nice window for planting before more rain moves through the Midwest later this week and weekend. Mild to warm temperatures continue for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 9, 2023 |
Economic Research Service: Farm Income Decline Varies by Region After reaching recent highs in 2021 and 2022, the average net cash income of U.S. farm businesses is expected to decline by 18 percent in 2023 compared with 2022. Farm businesses across the country are forecast to see higher production expenses, lower cash receipts, and lower Government payments in 2023, resulting in lower expected average net cash farm income. However, this overall decline will vary considerably across the country. USDA’s Economic Research Service uses resource regions to depict the geographic specialization in production of U.S. commodities. Farm businesses in the Northern Crescent region, which leads the nation in dairy production, are forecast to see the largest average percentage decrease, 30 percent, while those in the Mississippi Portal, which leads the nation in rice production, are forecast to see the smallest percent decrease, nine percent. Meanwhile, the Fruitful Rim will see an estimated 24 percent decline in average net cash income. *********************************************************************************** AEM Offers Ways to Address the Industry’s Technician Shortage It’s no secret to anyone working in equipment manufacturing the ever-growing technician shortage is a problem poised to get a lot worse before it gets better. According to a 2020 report, the industry may need to fill as many as 73,500 heavy equipment technician positions by 2025. In addition, the report stated equipment manufacturing possesses a job opening rate three times higher than the national average. Among survey respondents, 95 percent agreed with the assertion there was a skills gap in the industry, while 89 percent reported a shortage of workers within their companies. Julie Davis, AEM Senior Director of Workforce and Industry Initiatives, says, “Equipment manufacturers can and should embrace and adopt a number of short-term and long-term strategies to set themselves up for sustained success as it relates to workforce development. AEM offers four tips to businesses for addressing the shortage: focus on retention, fill the talent pipeline, diversify and optimize recruitment strategies, and collaborate with others. *********************************************************************************** March Pork Exports Largest in Nearly Two Years; Beef Exports Show Signs of Rebound March U.S. pork exports were the largest since May 2021, and beef export volumes were the largest since October, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. March pork exports totaled 260,195 metric tons, up 17 percent year-over-year and the ninth-largest volume on record. Export value was also the ninth largest at $724 million, up 18 percent from a year ago. These results capped a strong first quarter for U.S. pork as exports reached 716,691 metric tons, up 14 percent from a year ago, valued at $1.96 billion. Beef exports totaled 120,495 metric tons in March, down five percent from a year ago. Export value fell 17 percent to $892.6 million, but both volume and value were the highest in five months. Through the first quarter, beef exports were down eight percent year-over-year to 326,494 metric tons, valued at $2.35 billion. March exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 218 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** Research Reveals How Grazing Management Affects Cattle Weight Gain USDA’s Agricultural Research Service is completing a 10-year study on grazing practices. The study focuses on the two systems of grazing, season-long grazing and intensive rotational grazing, looking at how the systems affect cattle foraging behavior, diet quality, and yearly weight gain in semi-arid, extensive rangelands. The study showed herds in the multi-paddock rotating system feeding in more linear pathways instead of moving around looking for greener grass and selecting bites of more digestible vegetation. They also fed slower, spent more time on the same patch of grass, and didn't turn their heads around much while feeding, compared with steers in the continuous grazing system. These behaviors of less selective foraging resulted in a lower diet quality, reducing weight gain during the growing season. Results, published in Agriculture, Ecosystems, and Environment, show that large herds grazing in small, homogenous paddocks have little opportunity to move around in ways that let them feed on high-quality diet. *********************************************************************************** Smidt Named AFT’s New Director of Land Use and Protection Research American Farmland Trust has named Sam Smidt as National Director of Land Use and Protection Research to develop and implement the organization’s land use protection research agenda. Among his duties, Smidt will lead the Land Use and Protection Research Initiative, which includes and builds upon the existing Farms Under Threat projects. He will also be part of both AFT’s internal virtual research team that discusses and prioritizes overall research needs and AFT’s farmland protection unit, which will work with Sam to help identify and prioritize research questions that could advance farmland protection and retention efforts and AFT’s policy and program development. With an extensive agricultural background, Smidt is skilled at evaluating and modeling land transformation impacts on human and natural systems. Smidt is a native of Morton, Illinois, and he has graduate degrees in both earth and environmental science and policy from Michigan State University and The University of Iowa. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Fall for Third Straight Week For the third consecutive week, the nation's average gasoline price has fallen, declining 7.5 cents from a week ago to $3.50 per gallon. The national average is down 7.5 cents from a month ago and 80.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price declined 6.3 cents in the last week to $4.01 per gallon, $1.51 lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “In addition to gasoline prices declining, the average price of a gallon of diesel will join gasoline in the days ahead, falling below $4 per gallon.” De Haan attributes the decline partly due to oil prices holding near recent lows and the transition to summer gasoline being essentially complete. The debt ceiling concerns have also hit oil markets and remain a threat moving forward, should lawmakers approve a solution to the looming potential shutdown of the U.S. government, oil prices may see a stronger rally.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 9, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports scheduled Tuesday, but traders will act busy, checking on the latest weather forecasts and watching out for any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal. Outside markets also remain a source of concern and we should soon hear estimates for Friday's WASDE and Crop Production reports. Weather Another day of rain in the Plains is expected for Tuesday, though these showers will be largely disorganized and come in clusters across the region. Even so, there is still a risk of severe weather, mostly centered around Kansas. Mild temperatures continue to promote planting progress where rains are missing.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 8, 2023 |
Food Prices Rise in April The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reports that food prices rose in April for the first time in a year. The organization says the increases stem from higher sugar, meat, and rice prices. The Food Price Index, which tracks the international prices of commonly-traded food commodities, averaged 127.2 points in April, 0.6 percent higher than in March. That reading was 19 percent below April 2022 but still five percent higher than April 2021. The FAO Sugar Price Index rose almost 18 percent in March, reaching its highest point since October 2011. The Meat Price Index rose 1.3 percent during the month, driven primarily by higher prices for pig meat. The Cereal Price Index dropped 1.7 percent in April and averaged almost 20 percent below April 2022. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.3 percent in April, its fifth-straight monthly decline. The FAO Dairy Price Index dropped by 1.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** Smaller U.S. Cattle Herd Squeezing Meatpacker Profits America’s beef cow herd hasn’t been this small since 1962. Drought and the high cost of feed forced producers to cut their herd sizes instead of keeping animals for breeding. Livestock producers who fatten cattle suddenly have leverage over meatpackers as they negotiate cattle prices with organizations like Tyson Foods, JBS, and Cargill. U.S. News says meat processors are assessing the future of consumer demand should beef prices rise, along with cattle supplies and margins, to determine how many animals to slaughter in the months ahead. Cargill says it expects cattle prices will rise further and beef prices to rise as well. “The unknown factor is demand: how much will consumers be willing to pay,” says Tom Windish of Cargill. The amount of money that meatpackers make buying cattle and converting them to meat dropped under $40 per head in April. That’s after reaching over $700 a head in May 2020. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Hit Marketing-Year Low Point The USDA says corn export sales hit the lowest level since the 2022-2023 marketing year began on September 1. Cancelations led to a net reduction in corn sales during the seven days ending on April 27 of 315,600 metric tons. China canceled shipments of 562,800 metric tons. Meantime, exports of corn during the week hit a marketing-year high of 1.7 million metric tons. Soybean sales fell to 289,700 metric tons, a seven percent week-to-week drop and seven percent lower than the five-year average. China was the largest buyer at 134,300 metric tons. Soybean exports rose 24 percent on the week to 561,200 metric tons. Wheat sales rose 26 percent from the prior week to just over 211,000 metric tons, up 14 percent from the previous four-week average. Mexico was the leading buyer at 72,600 metric tons. Wheat exports during the week hit almost 289,000 metric tons, down five percent from the previous week. *********************************************************************************** NRCS Opens Up Soil Conservationist Positions The Natural Resources Conservation Service will hire team members over the next few years to help implement the $19.5 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act for conservation programs. The NRCS announced new jobs are opening up for soil conservationists. This is part of a broader effort by the agency to help producers develop conservation plans and implement conservation practices, including critical climate-smart practices. “The Inflation Reduction Act represents the single largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history, and the NRCS programs are an important part of our efforts,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. “To help agricultural producers invest in conservation on their farms, ranches, and working forests, we need to grow our team that delivers conservation programs.” The announcements are currently open and close on May 15, 2023. Interested candidates can find more information and apply for the job at USAjobs.gov. *********************************************************************************** Ag Export in 2021 Generate Billions in Economic Activity A new USDA report says exports constitute a significant market for American farm and food products and send ripples of activity through the nation’s economy. The Economic Research Service says America’s agricultural exports, valued at $177.3 billion in 2021, generated an additional $190.5 billion in economic activity. That’s a total of $367.8 billion in overall economic output. On average, that means every $1 of U.S. agricultural products exported generated a total of $2.07 in domestic economic activity. The services, trade, and transportation sectors benefited the most from agricultural exports, generating an estimated $79.5 billion worth of economic activity. On the farm, agricultural exports supported an additional $43.6 billion in business activity beyond the value of the agricultural exports themselves. The impact starts at the farm through purchases of inputs like fuel and fertilizer, spurring additional economy in the manufacturing, trade, and transportation sectors, and the impact continues in many other sectors. *********************************************************************************** USCA Applauds Introduction of the DRIVE Act Last week, Oklahoma Republican Representative Josh Brecheen, himself a fourth-generation rancher, introduced the Deregulation Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen Wheelers Act. The bill would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from implementing any rule or regulation requiring vehicles over 26,000 pounds that are engaged in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed-limiting device set to a maximum speed. In 2022, the FMSCA issued a notice of intent that it was considering rules requiring speed-limiting devices for certain large commercial vehicles. USCA Transportation Committee Chair Steve Hilker says their members are responsible for safely transporting millions of animals. “Livestock haulers must take into consideration the welfare of their cargo, which means avoiding rough road conditions, adjusting speed, and being more aware of their surroundings to prevent animal injuries,” says Hilker. “USCA is opposed to any federal mandate that limits a driver’s autonomy over their own truck and trailer.”
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 8, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and rain coverage amounts. They will also be interested in any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal or U.S. banking system. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A small system is producing a line of thunderstorms across Missouri and Illinois early Monday morning. The line is forecast to weaken this morning but redevelop in the afternoon across parts of the Midwest and Tennessee Valley where heavy rain and severe weather may occur. Other areas of showers and thunderstorms will pop up across the Plains and Midwest throughout the day as well, a continuation of the disorganized nature of storms that occurred over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |
Ag Lenders See Tighter Credit Tied to Regional Bank Collapses OMAHA (DTN) -- With regional banks facing stock-price declines, U.S. senators on Thursday asked community bankers, Farm Credit lenders and representatives from the crop insurance industry about lending stability in agriculture and rural America. Less than a day after Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell expressed support for the banking system with the Fed declaring "the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient," at least two publicly traded regional banks were under pressure from investors. PacWest Bancorp, a California-based bank, saw its share price collapse, and the bank announced it was trying to sell a $2.7 billion loan portfolio. PacWest is now the fourth bank in recent months that is under significant financial pressure. Senators asked bankers about systemic risks within the banking industry and the broader implications for farmers and rural America in a hearing Thursday on agricultural credit and crop insurance held by the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management and Trade. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., pointed out the country has seen "three of the four largest bank failures in American history" just since early March. Gillibrand said regulators and the private sector have stabilized the situation "to a point," but she said Congress will need to step in to prevent a further collapse. "It's clear Congress must act with some banking reform to guarantee long-term economic stability in the banking sector or risk similar future events," Gillibrand said. Gillibrand asked if the banking disruptions pose a risk to rural lenders and rural creditors. Jase Wagner, president and CEO of Compeer Financial, a member of the Farm Credit System in Wisconsin, said the impact on credit is real "when you have contagion like you have." The increased spreads in interest rates require more collateral for the risks being taken. That is costing farmers and others in rural money. "The impact is not real acute right now," Wagner said. "It is around the edges, new producers coming in, new loans that are being funded, but it is something we are actively watching." The backstop stemming from bank failures is that everyone else also becomes more conservative with their lending practices, Wagner added. "What you are seeing more broadly is everyone talking about risk, and when everyone is talking about risk, you tend to get more conservative," Wagner said. "So, it's immediately impactful to your young, beginning farmers." Gus Barker, president and CEO of First Community Bank in Newell, Iowa, stressed to senators that the problems affecting the stability of "megabanks" are not systemic to community banks. "We have not seen an impact," he said. "Those megabanks were not typical bank management. We just feel there needs to be a distinguished line drawn in the sand between the risk of those megabanks who are investing in far-out ways of doing business compared to what the community bank model has always been," Barker said. "It's been stable. It's survived everything from world wars to the ag crisis and survived that bank model. We just feel we are stable. We have not seen withdrawals of major deposits or anything like that." Barker added that small lenders and customers also shouldn't have to pay higher risk-based fees because of the financial problems facing those larger banks. "We shouldn't be tagged on to paying for those failures of those people." Gillibrand said she was concerned about regional and smaller banks. She asked if other institutions are seeing "capital flight" to larger banks and "misalignment of interest rates." "We have data and information that they have not reached stability," Gillibrand said, pointing to regional banks seeing declines in their stock prices. Phillip Morgan, CEO of Southern AgCredit, a Mississippi-based Farm Credit lender, said all lenders are concerned any time there is discussion of a credit crunch, "whether it is ag or non-ag, that bothers all of us." Morgan added, "I can tell you Farm Credit is well positioned, well capitalized, and does not have the same concerns, and we're well positioned to continue to support local agriculture." Morgan also said the rapid rise of interest rates over the past 12 months affects every farm operator. A number of long-term real-estate loans will "reprice" this year as the original price expires, he said. "They will be facing much higher interest rate costs," Morgan said, adding some producers will be facing both higher operating costs and real-estate loans. William Cole, a Mississippi crop insurance agent and a farmer representing the Crop Insurance Professionals Association (CIPA) at the hearing, said his customers, "for the most part" were able to secure operating loans this year, but that will become more difficult going forward. "It's just apparent the high rates are going to have a severe impact, especially with the cost of production just dramatically rising," Cole said. James Korin, president of NAU Country Insurance in Minnesota and testifying for the American Association of Crop Insurers, said reinsurance costs for the industry overall are up 40% this year, though that is a bigger issue for property and casualty lines of insurance instead of crop insurance. "There's no doubt the change in the banking industry has impacted capital," Korin said. He added, "We're seeing our cost of capital really go up." Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, also weighed in about the possible impacts on interest rates and credit if the U.S. were to default on its debt obligations. "My bigger worry right now is the economic environment we are in with all of the discussion about default and so on," Stabenow said. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., ranking member of the overall Senate Agriculture Committee, asked if any of the bankers or Farm Credit members were now facing more scrutiny. Barker said community banks "have always been scrutinized pretty heavily," but said "our files are up to date," and "our customers are well-positioned. They've had some very good years, and we hope to keep that sustained." Barker added that the farm safety net, such as crop insurance, is critical because bank regulators often ask about it. "That is a question we get asked about every customer from the examiners. Do they have federal crop insurance? As long as we tell them yes, they have much more comfort." FSA LOAN GUARANTEES As part of the farm bill, multiple senators also asked if the borrowing limit on FSA-guaranteed loans should be raised. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said a new producer trying to start a four-building poultry operation can cost roughly $2.5 million. Both Farm Credit and the Independent Community Bankers of America would like to see FSA-guaranteed loan limits raised from the current $2.03 million to $3.5 million for construction loans and $3 million in operating loans. Barker also suggested those FSA-guaranteed loan limits should be indexed to inflation. "They need to be adjusted upward. The price of land and inputs has just skyrocketed upward for us," Barker said. TAX-EXEMPT BANK LOANS Barker also said Farm Credit has a better funding system because of the bond market, but community bankers are looking for a way to be more competitive with Farm Credit on interest rates. The Independent Community Bankers of America is pitching a bill, the "Access to Credit for our Rural Economy" or ACRE Act, which would provide banks with tax exemptions on interest earned in rural lending -- agricultural real-estate or rural home sales in towns under 2,500 in population. "We've calculated that could be the difference of 1.5% to 2.5% lower rates for our folks, and that is another tool we would love to use for our beginning farmers and our low-income families in our towns," Barker said.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |
Michigan Reps Jump Into AM Radio Discussion Eight Michigan Representatives entered into a campaign to reverse Ford’s decision to remove AM radio from most new models in 2024. The eight reps sent a letter to Ford’s board of directors making a case to keep the legacy band in cars. “Not only is AM still widely listened to for entertainment purposes, especially in rural areas, but it is vitally important for emergency services in times of trouble or natural disaster,” the letter says. “Removing AM capability from future vehicles could jeopardize the safety and livelihood of millions of your customers.” Michigan Rep David Prestin says that Ford’s decision represents “a lack of vision or thought towards national security, our ability to communicate on the most basic level in the future for the unknown things we may have to face. I just find it reckless.” He also points out that AM radio is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Welcomes Senate Action on Lesser Prairie Chicken The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the Senate passage of a resolution of disapproval that would stop the listing of the lesser prairie chicken on the Endangered Species Act. The Congressional Review Act Resolution of Disapproval was led by Kansas’ Roger Marshall. “The lesser prairie chicken listing will do little to benefit the bird, but it will succeed in shutting down the voluntary conservation work that is responsible for the species surviving today,” says NCBA Policy Division Director Gene Copenhaver. “This resolution puts flexible, locally-led conservation efforts back at the forefront.” Representative Tracy Mann of Kansas is leading a companion resolution in the House to disapprove the lesser prairie chicken listing. The resolution recently passed the House Natural Resources Committee. NCBA is currently suing the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken. The lawsuit was filed in Texas in March. *********************************************************************************** NFU Appreciates USDA Funding to Strengthen Food Supply Chain Infrastructure The USDA recently announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers, and the National Farmers Union is pleased with the move. “This is the kind of capacity and investment that we need to make meaningful improvements in our food system,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “Providing local and regional access to processing and distribution is one avenue to fight back against the rampant consolidation in the agriculture and food sector.” The new USDA Regional Food Centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers, and other food businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. “This move provides support for farmers and ranchers to market their products in their own communities, and keeping those resources local is a win for everyone,” Larew says. “This will build resiliency in the food supply and vitality in our rural and agricultural economy.” *********************************************************************************** AEM Looking for Hall of Fame Nominations Nominations are now open for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Hall of Fame. The Hall celebrates the men and women who create the equipment and technologies that help build, feed, and power the world. Since its inception in 1993, the Hall of Fame has inducted 67 individuals who have broken ground, literally and figuratively, on the job sites and farm fields of the world. AEM is looking for nominations for the 2023 induction ceremony, especially individuals that reflect the diverse and inclusive nature of the modern construction and agriculture equipment manufacturing industry. “The oldest member of the AEM Hall of Fame is John Deere, who was born in 1804,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. “A lot has changed since then, and today’s technology would be unrecognizable to Mr. Deere.” The AEM Hall of Fame is accepting 2023 Hall of Fame nominations until Friday, June 16. For more information, go to aem.org. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Reportedly Closing 37 Sow Farms in Missouri A local Missouri news outlet says that Smithfield Foods plans to close 37 sow farms. An employee who requested anonymity said the closures were to begin on May 1. Smithfield Foods didn’t confirm the story or offer any more details regarding the closures when National Hog Farmer asked for clarification. “We’re always taking steps to enhance our business for consistently strong performance during favorable and unfavorable market conditions,” says Jim Monroe, vice president for corporate affairs with Smithfield. In April, China’s WH Group informed shareholders and potential investors that it was expecting a 56 percent drop in its first quarter 2023 profit outlook, down from $395 million during the same time last year. “Hog raising costs remain elevated while pork prices have been adversely impacted by softer consumer demand,” Smithfield says. The company also says the drop was mainly attributable to the challenging market conditions in the U.S. pork segment. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Rises While Stock Hit Five-Month Low Point The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production rose week-to-week while inventories dropped to the lowest level in five months during the week ending on April 28. Output increased to an average of 976,000 barrels a day. That’s up from 967,000 barrels during the prior week. The Midwest region, which produces the most ethanol in the country, rose to an average of 922,000 barrels a day from 916,000 barrels the previous week. Rocky Mountain output increased to 14,000 barrels a day, 1,000 barrels higher than the week prior. West Coast production also rose by 1,000 barrels a day to an average of 4,000 barrels. Production on the East Coast and Gulf Coast held steady at 12,000 and 24,000 barrels a day respectively. Ethanol inventories during the week plunged to 23.36 million barrels, down from 24.31 million barrels a week earlier, and the lowest levels since the week ending on December 2.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports on nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for April at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders will keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts from around the world as a new growing season begins in the Northern Hemisphere. They will also watch for any sign of movement on the extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and any news regarding the health of U.S. banks. Weather A cluster of storms continues across the Delta Friday morning which could see more development later Friday. The focus for rainfall will be across the Plains and Upper Midwest, though. Some thunderstorms may develop across central and eastern Texas this afternoon and evening, and could be severe, but the more widespread precipitation is expected farther north as a system moving through the West starts to move into the Central Rockies tonight. Showers should increase from Nebraska up into Wisconsin with time, and some severe weather may be possible across Nebraska as well. Showers are not likely to be widespread but will be of some benefit to drier areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 4, 2023 |
Farm Sector Chapter 12 Bankruptcies in 2022 Lowest Since 2004 New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service confirms a decline in the farm Chapter 12 bankruptcy rate. In 2022, the Chapter 12 bankruptcy rate reached the lowest level in nearly two decades, with 0.78 bankruptcies per 10,000 farms. Under Chapter 12 bankruptcy, a financially distressed family farmer can propose and carry out a plan to repay their debts fully or partially. The total number of these bankruptcies is an indicator of financial stress in the farm sector. In 2003, the annual bankruptcy rate reached a high of 3.3 per 10,000 farms and then declined to a low of 0.5 per 10,000 farms in 2004. After 2010, the bankruptcy rate declined until 2014 but increased again in 2015, with another peak in 2019 at 2.9 bankruptcies per 10,000 farms. Since then, bankruptcies have declined to the lowest level in two decades after 2004. Wisconsin had the highest rate at 5.66 per 10,000 farms, followed by Nebraska and Kansas. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Seeks to Increase USDA Technical Service Providers Legislation introduced in the House and Senate Wednesday seeks to help address America's shortage of Technical Service Providers at the Department of Agriculture. Technical Service Providers help producers deploy and manage conservation programs through one-on-one assistance. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby recently projected his agency would need to hire between 3,000 and 4,000 employees to meet demand for technical assistance. Specifically, the bill would help build the workforce by cutting red tape, streamlining Technical Service Provider certification requirements, and ensuring they are paid the market rate. Representative Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat from Virginia, and Senator Mike Braun, a Republican from Indiana, lead the effort. Spanberger says, “This massive workforce issue is having real effects on the ground — and it’s slowing down the ability of producers to make smart management plans for their land.” Braun adds, “Our nation’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in conservation, so it is important that they have access to Technical Service Providers.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Finalists for 12 New USDA Regional Food Business Centers The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers. The centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers and ranchers access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. USDA also announced a $420 million Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program to fund innovative projects designed to invest in processing and distribution capacity to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the efforts will “create new and expanded local market opportunities which will improve farm income.” In September 2022, USDA announced $400 million to fund this initiative and 12 organizations were selected to lead efforts in their region and together serve all areas of the country. Regional Food Centers will target their work to historically underinvested communities. Find the 12 centers and more information on the USDA Regional Food Business Centers Program webpage. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows Launch Free Digital Skills and Ag Literacy Lessons The 2023 Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows have launched four free Applied Digital Skills lessons dedicated to helping students learn about food, fuel and fiber. The lessons were developed with support from Grow with Google to make digital skills and agricultural literacy more accessible to students across the country, with a focus on rural classrooms. The lessons are part of the Agriculture and Rural Communities Collection, available for free to educators across the United States. Foundation for Agriculture executive director Daniel Meloy says, “Whether you’re a teacher in a rural, urban or suburban classroom, these lessons can be used to teach a broad variety of technical skills while fostering understanding of agriculture.” The lessons were developed over the course of an eight-month fellowship. As part of the program, each Fellow will receive a stipend and Chromebooks for their classroom. For more information, visit the Farm Bureau Foundation website, agfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Hershey Company Announces Income Accelerator for Cocoa Farmers The Hershey Company recently announced the launch of its Income Accelerator in the Ivory Coast. The program will support increased incomes for cocoa farming households by providing cash transfers and investments in village savings and loan associations. The Income Accelerator offers a proven, multi-faceted approach to help address cocoa farmer poverty while also supporting sustainable farming practices and mitigating the risk of child labor. As part of the Income Accelerator, Hershey, in partnership with the Rainforest Alliance, will distribute mobile cash transfers of up to $600 per household per year to approximately 5,000 cocoa farming households within its supply chain. These transfers, which will offer an additional source of income for households, will be based on the adoption of sustainable and regenerative farm management practices that increase farm profitability and resiliency to unexpected environmental circumstances. The Income Accelerator is expected to positively impact no fewer than 20,000 households within Hershey's supply chain and related communities. *********************************************************************************** Cargill, Taco Bell, Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Announce Partnership With bold ambitions to operate 10,000 restaurants in the coming years, Taco Bell acknowledges its responsibility to balance global expansion with intentional impact. Taco Bell is now partnering with its long-time supplier Cargill and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to implement conservation and regenerative agriculture practices across cattle grazing lands. The partnership is part of Taco Bell's parent company Yum! Brands' efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50 percent by 2030. The partnership will support beef producers with technical and financial tools to expand their regenerative ranching practices, from conserving grassland ecosystems to improving river water quality and biodiversity. The commitment from Cargill and Taco Bell will allocate $2 million and will leverage up to $2 million in federal funds for a combined total of $4 million in new grants over the next four years. Taco Bell estimates the partnership will conserve and restore tens of thousands of acres and sequester up to 44,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year in 2030.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 4, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for March, first-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep watch over the latest news from Russia, weather happenings and any further news about U.S. bank problems. Weather A cold trough in the East is on its way out and is being replaced by a ridge and warmer temperatures east of the Rockies, though it is a slower process for those farther east. A trough in the Southwest continues to develop showers there and through the Plains on Thursday, with some risk of severe weather from Oklahoma through Texas this afternoon and evening. Those showers should grow into a cluster of heavier rain tonight that will expand north into eastern Kansas and then through the Ozarks overnight.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 3, 2023 |
Farm Bill Hearing: Farmers Need a Stronger Safety Net During a Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing Tuesday, a sorghum farmer told lawmakers farmers need a stronger farm safety net. National Sorghum Producers' Past Chairman, Kody Carson of Texas told lawmakers, "Right now, the farm safety net is not adequate." Carson also reaffirmed support for crop insurance, adding, "the tool has been absolutely critical in helping us manage the ongoing drought conditions decimating the Sorghum Belt." Meanwhile, American Soybean Association Secretary Caleb Ragland of Kentucky called crop insurance the most effective and important component of farm policy for soybean farmers. Ragland says that without crop insurance, “the risk would be more than many farmers and lenders could stand—it certainly would be for me,” while calling for improvements to the Title I farm safety net for soybeans. And National Corn Growers Association First Vice President Harold Wolle told the committee NCGA supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance coverage. Wolle adds, “The individual costs of purchasing coverage can discourage higher levels of coverage.” *********************************************************************************** Ag Economy Barometer: Farmer Sentiment Improves Farmer sentiment improved modestly in April as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reversed a two-month decline, up six points to 123. The Current Conditions Index rose three points to 129, while the Index of Future Expectations rose seven points to 120. More producers expect prime interest rates to either hold steady or possibly decline during the next 12 months than felt that way earlier in the year. Perspectives on farmland values shifted somewhat in April, with fewer producers expecting values to decline in the upcoming year and more producers looking for values to rise. When asked about the possibility of a new Farm Bill being passed by Congress in 2023, responses were mixed, with 40 percent of producers saying that passage was at least somewhat likely, while nearly 30 percent of respondents think that passage is at least somewhat unlikely. Meanwhile, 40 percent of respondents considered crop insurance the most important Farm Bill title, followed by commodity programs and conservation. *********************************************************************************** Renderers Support Protein PACT Legislation The North American Renderers Association Tuesday endorsed The Protein PACT: For the People, Animals and Climate of Tomorrow. The legislation is the largest effort to strengthen animal protein's contributions to healthy people, animals, communities, and a healthy environment. NARA endorsed the Protein PACT because the association "recognizes the importance of continuous improvement in the animal agriculture industry and see the benefit that the Protein PACT’s accomplishments will have on our organization, our members, and global consumers.” The organization says The Protein PACT uses transparent, data-based reporting to verify progress and keep the industry accountable for achieving its global goals. The Protein PACT Sustainability Framework encompasses more than 100 metrics developed through extensive collaboration with sustainability experts and supply chain partners. The association joins dozens of other food and Agriculture organizations in endorsing the Protein PACT’s vision to place Animal Agriculture at the center of global solutions. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Submits Milk-Pricing Plan to USDA The National Milk Producers Federation this week submitted to USDA its comprehensive proposal for modernizing the Federal Milk Marketing Order system. The proposal follows two years of examination and more than 150 meetings to build consensus behind updates to a program that last saw significant changes in 2000. The NMPF proposal calls for updating the so-called "make allowance," returning to the “higher of” Class I mover, and updating the Class I differential price system, among other updates. Upon acceptance, USDA will have 30 days to review the plan and decide whether and how to move forward with a federal order hearing to review the plan. NMPF will pursue two other components of its Federal Order proposal outside the federal order hearing process. Those include extending the current 30-day reporting limit to 45 days on forward-priced sales on nonfat dry milk and dry whey, and developing legislative language for the farm bill to ensure the make allowance is regularly reviewed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing $130 Million to Farmers Facing Financial Risk The Department of Agriculture this week announced nearly $130 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Borrowers who received the automatic payments include Farm Service Agency direct loan borrowers whose interest exceeded principle owed on outstanding debts, borrowers who had a balance up to 60 days past due as of September 30, 2022, and borrowers with a recent restructure between February 28, 2020, through March 27, 2023, or who had accepted an offer to restructure on or before March 27, 2023, but had not yet closed that restructure. FSA is accepting distressed borrower assistance requests from direct loan borrowers who missed a recent installment or cannot make their next scheduled installment. USDA will continue to update borrowers and the public about new eligibility criteria. *********************************************************************************** Nutrient Intakes by Consumers Differ from Federal Recommendations U.S. consumers' intakes of several key nutrients differ from Federal recommendations, and those differences are associated with where they obtain food. Researchers from USDA's Economic Research Service examined diet patterns based on density—amounts of nutrients consumed per 1,000 calories—using the latest available national food consumption survey data collected in 2017–18. They compared average consumption densities of six nutrients with what would be needed to match Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations. On average, dietary fiber and iron intake densities were more than 20 percent below the recommended level. Meanwhile, calcium densities were closer to the recommended level but still fell short of recommendations. Total fat intake was within 20 percent of the highest recommended percent of calories from total fats, which is 35 percent. The density of saturated fats for food away from home and densities of sodium from all sources were more than 20 percent above the recommended limit.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 3, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The Federal Reserve concludes a two-day meeting with a widely anticipated interest rate announcement at 1 p.m. Many are expecting a quarter-percent increase in the federal funds target to an upper limit of 5.25%. Weather A storm system continues its slow movement through the northeast where showers will be possible, but most areas of the country are becoming dry. The exit of the system will mean rising temperatures for the next couple of days. In the warmth, isolated showers will be possible for the Central and Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 2, 2023 |
Farm Sector Real Estate Debt Hits Record High New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows farm sector debt tied to real estate is expected to be at a record high of $375.9 billion in 2023. Farm sector real estate debt has been increasing continuously since 2009 and is expected to reach an amount that is 87.5 percent higher in 2023 compared with 2009 in inflation-adjusted dollars. Real estate debt now far outpaces debt that is not secured by a mortgage. Historically, real estate debt and non-real estate debt have trended similarly, but they have diverged in recent years. Non-real estate debt showed an 11.9-percent year-to-year increase in 2014 in inflation-adjusted dollars but declined after 2017. Meanwhile, there has been a continuous increase in real estate debt since 2009. In 2023, real estate debt is expected to be 33.0 percent higher than the ten-year average, while non-real estate debt is expected to be 10.2 percent lower than the ten-year average. *********************************************************************************** USGC Releases 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report The average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested for the U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report released this week was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors. The report is based on 430 export cargo samples collected from corn shipments undergoing federal inspection and grading processes at export terminals. It also provides information on grading, handling and how U.S. corn is moved and controlled through export channels. USGC Chairman Josh Miller says, “International importers and consumers can know that they are making a smart, informed purchase by seeing the exact benefits and characteristics of this year’s crop.” Average test weight found by the analysis was higher than in 2021/2022 and the five-year average, with 93.3 percent of samples at or above the minimum requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade corn, indicating overall good quality. The export cargo quality report is a companion to the USGC 2022/2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report. *********************************************************************************** TFI Releases 2023-2024 Public Policy Priorities The Fertilizer Institute Monday released its list of 2023-2024 public policy priorities for working with the Biden Administration, regulatory agencies, and a closely divided 118th Congress. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “we are strongly advocating for policies that ensure the fertilizer industry is able to continue feeding the world sustainably though innovation, efficiency, and legislative and regulatory updates that are long overdue.” TFI’s priorities are broken down into seven key areas: Economic Growth & Competitiveness; Transportation & Infrastructure; Environment; Safety & Security; Farm Bill Reauthorization; Permitting & Registration; and Innovation. Those changes include reforming the National Environmental Policy Act. TFI describes the legislation as convoluted, time-consuming, and expensive, regarding its permitting process. As for the Farm Bill, Rosenbusch says it’s “all about conservation and continuing to push for science-backed 4R Nutrient Stewardship adoption by growers and removing the existing barriers to grower adoption.” TFI also wants hurdles removed for biostimulants, a new innovation in agricultural fertilizers. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Marine Fish Stocks Show Improvements in 2022 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released the 2022 Status of Stocks report last week, outlining U.S. marine fish stocks managed by NOAA Fisheries. In 2022, U.S. fisheries data revealed that 93 percent of stocks are not subject to overfishing and 81 percent are not overfished. These numbers show slight improvements compared to the 2021 figures of 92 percent and 80 percent, respectively. Positive trends were seen this year with the number of stocks on the overfishing list decreasing by two stocks to 24, and the number of overfished stocks decreasing by three stocks to 48. NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad says, “This annual report reveals the U.S. remains a global leader in maintaining the sustainable fisheries that drive the blue economy, support coastal communities and play a key role in marine ecosystems.” The latest data show that U.S. commercial and recreational fishing supports 1.7 million full- and part-time jobs, generated over $253 billion in sales impacts and contributed $79.4 billion to the gross domestic product. *********************************************************************************** FAA Approves Guardian Agriculture Done System Guardian Agriculture recently announced it has received approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to operate its aircraft nationwide. FAA approval makes Guardian Agriculture the first commercially authorized Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing in the U.S., allowing Guardian Agriculture to safely operate its systems across the country. Guardian Agriculture Founder and CEO Adam Bercu says, “FAA approval represents an important turning point for American leadership in this fast-growing market." Commercial farmers are rapidly moving away from ground spraying equipment in favor of unmanned autonomous systems. However, the majority of systems available today are too small to provide growers with full-field coverage at a competitive price point. The Guardian SC1 platform - which already has more than $100 million in customer orders - is the only autonomous, electric, aerial crop protection system designed specifically for large-scale agriculture. Guardian Agriculture will begin commercial operations in support of its Wilbur-Ellis customer in California in the coming months as it continues to ramp up its production capacity. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Slide Again: Diesel Reaches 13-Month Low For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 6.3 cents from a week ago to $3.58 per gallon. The national average is up 8.2 cents from a month ago but 59.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.07 per gallon, $1.18 lower than one year ago. Oil prices have come under additional selling pressure alongside wholesale gasoline prices, and diesel prices have followed. The latest data shows diesel prices fell to their lowest level in over 13 months as demand remains weak due to concerns over the economy. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “With refinery maintenance wrapping up, we should see supplies start to build in the weeks ahead, just in time for the summer driving season, potentially putting more downward pressure on prices.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 2, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on March U.S. factory orders is set for 9 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, the same time as a report on U.S. job openings. The Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting Tuesday and is expected to conclude with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and digest Monday's Crop Progress numbers from USDA. Weather A storm system continues to spin around the eastern Great Lakes with scattered showers for Tuesday. Temperatures will be on a slow rise Tuesday with temperatures conducive for planting across the Plains up into the Canadian Prairies. Some isolated showers may develop in the southwestern Plains this afternoon but would be very spotty.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 1, 2023 |
Biden Administration Allowing Summertime Sales of E15 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Friday that it will use existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88. “We appreciate Administrator Regan’s timely action to prevent a disruption in E15 availability,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (Hayg). “EPA’s action will help address the fuel supply constraints and ensure drivers continue to have access to a lower-cost fuel choice that cuts emissions.” The fuel conditions that warranted EPA taking the same successful step last year are continuing today. Haag says the nation’s corn growers are proud to contribute to an energy and environmental solution that saves consumers money at the pump. Continued access to E15 during the summer months will help relieve ongoing energy supply pressures. When EPA took a similar action last year, drivers saved nearly a dollar per gallon in some locations. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agriculture Reacts to EPA E15 Emergency Waiver The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 fuel to be sold during the summer driving season. Reaction from some of America’s leading ag and renewable fuel organizations has been positive. “U.S. gas inventories are even tighter than they were last year, and the war in Ukraine continues wreaking havoc on global fuel supplies,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “We thank the EPA for taking this step.” Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “This is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this summer.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says, “Today’s announcement from EPA is good news for farmers and consumers heading into the summer travel season. Drivers will see increased choice and competition while farmers will see more opportunities for their bottom line.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Trade Consultation Request “Violates Mexican Law” The United States requested trade consultations in March on Mexico’s plan to limit the use of genetically modified corn. Reuters says a top Mexican official called the request an “unacceptable violation” of Mexican law that feeds the interest of giant seed companies. The U.S. is Mexico’s main trading partner and requested the consultations under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which calls for science-based regulations. Mexico’s Deputy Agriculture Minister Victor Suarez says, “The United States’ request to Mexico follows the interests of seed, agrochemical, and other foodproducing oligopolies.” He also points out that seed makers like Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta, and BASF are winning under U.S. agriculture and trade policies. However, Suarez feels those companies don’t represent all U.S. farmers. The consultations are a first step toward a trade panel that could ultimately mean a ruling calling for placing punitive tariffs on Mexico. Suarez says Mexico’s policy won’t affect U.S. corn farmers at all. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for NCGA Women and Mentors Program Applications are now open for the third class of the National Corn Growers Association’s Women and Mentors Program on June 22-23 in St. Louis. The program helps women looking to find the next steps of their leadership journey to partner with a mentor who has traveled that path. Mentors help foster leaders of tomorrow and learn how to share the wealth of knowledge and understanding accumulated through years of service. Class members learn how to quiet their inner critic, explore what they can learn from another woman’s leadership journey, and develop an action plan for their own mentorship journey. Each participant also gains a supportive group of peers committed to their success. NCGA officials say everyone leaves the retreat with a concrete action plan and a mentorship pairing to help each other reach their goals. The last day to apply for the program is May 19. For more information, go to ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Pork Growing in the Japanese Market National Pork Board representatives recently met with two of Japan’s largest importers of U.S. pork and one of the country’s top retailers. NPB says the meetings were a sign of stronger partnerships and trust established in the market. One of Japan’s largest retailers committed to increasing their purchases of U.S. pork, replacing Canadian pork in the meat case. Also, Japanese authorities are lifting COVID-19 restrictions next month, which is expected to boost the country’s economy. The Japanese market has consistently been proven valuable for U.S. pork exports. In 2022, Japan imported over 534,000 metric tons of American pork, amounting to $1.5 billion, and ended the year as the second-largest value market. The growth of the market can be attributed to its demand for chilled pork and loin products. Japan’s pork demand consists of 62 percent imported products, with the U.S. holding a 24 percent market share in chilled and frozen pork. *********************************************************************************** Fetterman Opposes IRA Funds for Farm Bill Conservation Efforts Late last week, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman sent a letter to Senate Ag Committee leadership detailing his opposition to Inflation Reduction Act funding for farm bill conservation efforts. “I strongly oppose any measures that would essentially cannibalize IRA conservation funding in order to pay for the farm bill’s conservation efforts,” Fetterman said in the letter. “The bottom line is that to both support our nation’s agricultural producers and mitigate climate change, we must maintain the Inflation Reduction Act programs and include separate robust agriculture conservation funding in the upcoming farm bill.” Fetterman also says the country can and must do both. The letter was supported by multiple Pennsylvania-based environmental and farming-focused groups. Senator Fetterman says he’ll continue to oppose any effort to move Inflation Reduction Act funding away from its original purpose to get used for farm bill conservation efforts. Farmers in Pennsylvania continue to support funding for voluntary conservation programs.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 1, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the news, the latest weather forecasts and international manufacturing indices that start rolling in early Monday. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT. At 2 p.m., NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A storm system has built up in the Great Lakes over the weekend and continues to spin on Monday, producing showers across the eastern Midwest into the Northeast, and some breezy winds. Some of the showers may mix with snow in the colder air swirling around the low. The rest of the country should be rather quiet and mild.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 28, 2023 |
World Bank: Commodity Prices to Drop Through 2024 Global commodity prices are expected to drop this year at the fastest clip since the beginning of COVID-19. A World Bank report says that clouds the prospective growth of approximately two-thirds of the developing economies that depends on exports. The Commodity Markets Outlook says the drop in prices is expected to bring little relief to the almost 350 million people around the world who are facing food insecurity. While food prices are expected to drop by eight percent this year, they will be at their second-highest level since 1975. Food price inflation is at 20 percent globally, the highest level in 20 years. “The surge in food and energy prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has largely passed due to slowing economic growth, a moderate winter, and reallocations in commodity trade,” the report says. Overall, commodity prices are expected to fall by 21 percent in 2023, relative to last year. *********************************************************************************** House Amendment Preserves Renewable Fuel Tax Credits Clean Fuels Alliance welcomed an amendment to House legislation that would raise the nation’s debt limit and make substantial changes to clean energy tax credits. The amendment would preserve the biodiesel and renewable diesel blenders’ credits as they are written in current law. “The clean fuels industry thanks all the House members who sought to preserve predictability and stability in tax policy,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs with Clean Fuels. Midwestern House Republicans were also concerned about the bill’s elimination of ethanol tax credits. A manager’s amendment eliminated those provisions that would have eliminated tax credits for biofuels that were part of the Inflation Reduction Act. The amendment added a grandfather clause in a section that eliminates sustainable aviation fuel and alternative fuel tax credits for those engaged in activities who would have received a credit after the Inflation Reduction Act passed and before it was introduced. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Testify on Farm Bill Priorities American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates testified before the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit. Cates offered ASA’s perspectives on the 2023 Farm Bill and asked for help with two priorities under the subcommittee’s jurisdiction. The first was protecting crop insurance, and the second was improving the Title 1 farm safety net for soybeans. Cates called crop insurance, “The most effective and important component of the farm safety net for soybean farmers.” National Sorghum Producers Chair Craig Meeker also testified during the hearing. “It’s clear that more resources will be necessary to enact a strong farm bill this year as there’s a major shortfall of funding compared to previous bills,” Meeker says. He also reaffirmed his group’s support for crop insurance, noting that he would not be the sixth generation on his family farm without it. Crop insurance has been critical in managing an ongoing drought. *********************************************************************************** From Drought to Flooding in Six Months Last fall, the main topic of discussion with historically-low water levels on the Mississippi River and other navigable rivers. Now, high water levels are presenting a challenge to barge transportation, especially along the Upper Mississippi River levels. Significant snowfall and rain over the past several weeks have resulted in a sizable increase in water levels. Many of the Mississippi River locks between St. Paul, Minnesota, and Quincy, Illinois, have been closed by the high water conditions. Many will likely stay closed until the first and second week of May. Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says, “Closures of these locks will obviously impede the delivery of any remaining soybeans or grain for the export markets. However, lock closures at this time of year will particularly impact northern fertilizer shipments.” The USDA estimates that 2.4 million tons of fertilizer have been delivered during the first 12 weeks of 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Kicks Off Implementation Phase of Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities The USDA kicked off the implementation phase for projects funded through the $3.1 billion Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities effort. As projects get started, the agency is also launching the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Learning Network, which will generate key lessons learned as projects get implemented. “Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners are on the frontlines of climate change,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “At the same time, they are uniquely positioned to deliver climate solutions through climate-smart production that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and sequesters carbon.” Vilsack also says through these projects, the agency’s partners are working to create new markets for climate-smart commodities while developing the tools needed to quantify impacts and help producers implement those climate-smart practices on their land. Producers interested in participating in projects can go to the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Active Project Dashboard to find projects in their areas. For more information on projects, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Canadian Farmers Planting More Wheat This Year As Canadian farmers gear up for spring planting, they expect to plant more wheat this year and increase crops of canola and soybeans. The University of Illinois’ Farm Policy News says, “Canada’s farmers forecast planting 26.97 million acres of wheat in 2023, six percent higher than 2022 but still well below the 8.2 percent annual increase recorded last year.” The spring wheat area will increase 7.5 percent to 19.39 million acres, durum wheat is predicted to edge up 0.9 percent to just over six million acres, and the winter wheat area is anticipated to jump more than 12 percent to 1.52 million acres. Geopolitical concerns may be behind Canada’s increasing wheat crop. Canada’s farmers are planting the most wheat in 22 years as the war in Ukraine and a significant drought in the U.S. tighten global supplies. Global wheat stocks and vegetable oil supplies are limited by obstacles facing Ukraine’s exports
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 28, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, the PCE index, will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the employment cost index for the first quarter and reports on U.S. personal incomes and spending in March. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for April will be out at 9 a.m. Traders will keep up on the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m., not knowing if USDA has an export sale, a cancellation or neither. Weather A couple of systems are pushing through the country on Friday, producing areas of scattered showers from the Southern Plains to the Northeast and places in between. Some stronger thunderstorms will be possible across Texas later today as well as some breezy winds behind a front across the western Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 27, 2023 |
NCGA Outlines Farm Bill Priorities Corn growers are optimistic that Congress can make key farm bill programs more effective and responsive to the needs of farmers, according to the National Corn Growers Association. NCGA President Tom Haag, a Minnesota farmer, testified to the House Agriculture General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit Subcommittee. The committee hearing focused on stakeholder priorities for the crop insurance and commodity titles. Haag says, "Corn growers consistently rank crop insurance as the most important program and title of the farm bill. NCGA broadly supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance." Haag also offered recommendations for the commodity title, saying NCGA supports increasing the maximum rate in the Agriculture Risk Coverage County program to provide increased assistance to growers who experience significant revenue losses. Haag says NCGA recommends increasing the coverage level for ARC County to make the program more responsive to revenue losses. NCGA supports the improvement of the Price Loss Coverage program, investment to expand international markets and trade promotion. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Reiterates Importance of Food Safety, Opposes PRIME Act The National Cattlemen's Beef Association Wednesday once again announced opposition to the Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption, or PRIME Act. Representatives Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, introduced the bill. The legislation would allow beef processed in a non-U.S. Department of Agriculture inspected facility to be distributed interstate, posing a threat to food safety and consumer trust in beef. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "While the PRIME Act is well-intentioned, allowing uninspected beef to enter the retail market is dangerous to consumers." NCBA supports federal and state meat inspection efforts and has previously supported legislation like the DIRECT Act. That legislation would allow state-inspected beef to be sold interstate in limited quantities, direct-to-consumer, and through e-commerce. Unlike the PRIME Act, these measures would create the necessary paper trail to trace and contain any potential food safety concerns. *********************************************************************************** AEM Calls on Congress to Bolster American Competitiveness The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is mobilizing thousands of industry supporters through its I Make American grassroots campaign. The supporters call on lawmakers to address national priorities, including modernizing the permitting process necessary to build critical infrastructure and boost domestic energy production. Other priorities include ensuring that infrastructure funding moves expeditiously from Washington to urgently needed project sites, and passing a farm bill to guarantee a safe and abundant food supply for all Americans. AEM’s Kip Eideberg says, "Lawmakers must act to ensure that the 2.3 million men and women of our industry can out-innovate and outcompete the rest of the world. The campaign includes 88,000 letters to Capitol Hill. AEM’s I Make America campaign engaged CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023’s 139,000 attendees to raise awareness for the policies that will strengthen the industry and ensure that equipment manufacturers can continue to make the equipment that builds, powers, and feeds the world. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Meat and Dairy Production Lead Food Sector Sales New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows meat processing and dairy product manufacturing are the largest components of food sector sales. Food and beverage manufacturing plants transform raw food commodities into products for intermediate or final consumption by using labor, machinery, energy, and scientific knowledge. These plants accounted for nearly $267 billion or 16.8 percent of sales, shipment values, and revenue from all U.S. manufacturing plants in 2021, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census’ Annual Survey of Manufactures. Meat processing is the largest industry group in food and beverage manufacturing, with 26.2 percent of sales in 2021. Meat processing includes livestock and poultry slaughter, processing, and rendering. Dairy product manufacturing, which ranges from fluid milk to frozen desserts, accounted for the second-most sales at 12.8 percent in 2021. Other important industry groups by sales include other foods, beverages, and grain and oilseeds. Other foods include snack foods, coffee and tea, flavorings, and dressings. *********************************************************************************** NFU: Colorado Right to Repair Law a Win for Farmers Across the Country The National Farmers Union calls the signing of Colorado’s Right to Repair law a win for all farmers and ranchers. Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed the Consumer Right to Repair Agricultural Equipment Act this week. NFU President Rob Larew says, "seeing a bill like this cross the finish line is a testament to the persistence of our members and the need for this issue to be addressed nationally." Major farm equipment manufacturers have refused to make the software tools necessary to repair modern tractors, combines, and other farm equipment available to farmers and independent mechanics. This leaves farmers no choice but to take their broken equipment to licensed dealerships, which has led to repair delays and inflated repair costs. Right to Repair is a key issue in NFU's Fairness for Farmers campaign, which aims to build fairer and more competitive agricultural markets, and to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture. *********************************************************************************** USDA’s CLEAR30 Enrollment Open Farmers and landowners with certain expiring Conservation Reserve Program contracts can receive additional rental incentives and extend that land’s role in conservation for another 30 years. The Department of Agriculture has opened the signup period for its Clean Lakes, Estuaries, And Rivers enrollment, known as CLEAR30, now through July 31, 2023. CLEAR30 is a part of the CLEAR initiative, which prioritizes water quality practices as a part of Continuous CRP enrollment, and is one of several CRP enrollment opportunities. CLEAR30 allows producers and landowners enrolling certain water quality practices to enroll in 30-year contracts, extending the lifespan and strengthening the benefits of important water quality practices on their land. Like other CRP enrollments, CLEAR30 is a voluntary, incentive-based conservation opportunity offered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency. To sign up for CLEAR30, landowners and producers should contact their local USDA Service Center by July 31, 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 27, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, first-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of U.S. pending home sales in March is out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system is moving across the South with areas of thunderstorms and heavier rainfall. This system continues to press eastward and may contain some severe storms near the Gulf Coast. To the north, another system is moving through the Northern Plains and will produce scattered showers as its cold front dives south throughout the day. Frosts occurred in the eastern Midwest again this morning, yet another day of risk for more-advanced wheat and emergent corn and soybeans.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 26, 2023 |
Number of U.S. Farms Continues to Decline New data released Tuesday by USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the number of U.S. farms continues to decline. After peaking at 6.8 million farms in 1935, the number of U.S. farms and ranches fell sharply through the early 1970s. Researchers say the rapidly falling farm numbers in the mid-20th century reflect the growing productivity of agriculture, increased mechanization, and increased nonfarm employment opportunities. Since 1982, the number of U.S. farms has continued to decline, but much more slowly. In 2022, there were 2.0 million U.S. farms, down from 2.2 million in 2007. Similarly, the acres of land in farms continue a downward trend with 893 million acres in 2022, down from 915 million acres ten years earlier. The average farm size in 2022 was 446 acres, only slightly greater than the 440 acres recorded in the early 1970s. The data comes as USDA this year predicts net farm income at $136.9 billion in calendar year 2023, a decrease of $25.9 billion relative to 2022. *********************************************************************************** Inflation Impacting Organic Fresh Produce Sales Inflation continued to impact organic fresh produce sales in the first quarter of 2023. Overall dollar sales grew by slightly less than one percent, and volume declined by 3.4 percent from the same year-over-year period. The data was released by the Organic Produce Network this week and included in its Q1 2023 Organic Produce Performance Report. Overall, the total produce department gained 2.6 percent in dollars for Q1 2023 compared to the same period in 2022 and declined by 1.3 percent in volume. Sales of organic fresh produce totaled nearly $2.4 billion for the first quarter of 2023, while overall volume topped 703 million pounds. Conventional produce dollars rose higher than organic dollars by about two percent and declined in volume by a smaller degree than organic. Current trends show both conventional and organic produce volume shrinking year over year. However, while volume for conventional produce is below 2020 and organics are on par with 2020, both are consistently gaining in dollars. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Urges Protection of IRA Conservation Funds in Farm Bill A coalition of lawmakers urges the House Agriculture Committee to protect the nearly $20 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act for climate-smart agriculture programs in the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. The House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition made the request this week in a letter to Committee leadership. The letter states, “The $19.5 billion in Inflation Reduction Act investments for Farm Bill Title II conservation programs and technical assistance within USDA is critical to fighting climate change, and the next Farm Bill represents a significant opportunity to strengthen climate-resilience.” The letter was signed by coalition co-chairs, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Kim Schrier, along with the 16 other members of the task force. The letter explains that because agriculture also holds the potential to store significant quantities of carbon, it represents a unique opportunity to tackle climate change. The coalition was founded in January 2009 to advocate for policies for clean energy innovation, environmental protection, and policies that address global climate change. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Changes to Salmonella Regulations for Select Poultry Products USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service proposed to declare Salmonella an adulterant in breaded stuffed raw chicken products. Under the proposal, FSIS would consider any breaded stuffed raw chicken products that include a chicken component that tested positive for Salmonella at one colony forming unit per gram before stuffing and breading to be adulterated. FSIS also proposes to carry out verification procedures, including sampling and testing the chicken component of breaded stuffed raw chicken products prior to stuffing and breading, to ensure producing establishments control Salmonella. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the proposal "represents the first step in a broader effort to control Salmonella contamination in all poultry products." The announcement is part of USDA's proposed regulatory framework to reduce Salmonella infections linked to poultry products, released in October 2022. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that Salmonella bacteria cause approximately 1.35 million human infections in the United States every year, with 23 percent attributed to poultry consumption. *********************************************************************************** USDA APHIS Announces New Strategic Plan USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Tuesday released a new five-year strategic plan for the agency. The plan incorporates input received from stakeholders on the strategic framework published in June 2022. The plan includes six strategic goals, outlining the objectives and performance measures that set the direction for the agency. The goals focus on protecting agriculture from plant and animal diseases and pests, positioning the agency's workforce to better meet current and future challenges, delivering solutions that reduce the impacts of zoonotic and emerging diseases, and ecosystem changes, such as climate change, expanding safe trade, managing wildlife diseases, and promoting the welfare of animals. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service protects the health of U.S. agriculture and natural resources against invasive pests and diseases, regulates genetically engineered crops, administers the Animal Welfare Act, and helps people and wildlife coexist. APHIS also certifies the health of U.S. agricultural exports and resolves phytosanitary and sanitary trade issues. *********************************************************************************** Vroom Joins Stratovation Group Board Stratovation Group Tuesday announced the addition of Jay Vroom to its Board of Advisors. After retiring as President and CEO of CropLife America, Vroom continues to be active as an agricultural leader and consultant to numerous national agricultural organizations. Vroom says, “Stratovation is bringing exciting new energy to the food and ag market with innovative approaches to both research and strategic advice for clients.” Vroom joins other executives on the Stratovation Group Board of Advisors, including Missouri Farmer Blake Hurst; Russ Green, managing director of MACKAYBEN; Kristen Snow, CEO of Level D&I; Jenn Wells, president of TalentID; and Ward Hill, CEO of Candor Hill. Stratovation Group Chief Operating Officer Mace Thornton says of Vroom, “He’s the kind of person who cares and you want to have in your corner.” Stratovation Group provides market research and intelligence, strategy and consulting, marketing and branding, along with web content services to the agricultural sector.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 26, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report of U.S. durable goods orders in March will be watched at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday as the market is wary of a possible slowdown in the economy. The U.S. Energy Department will have its weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. As usual, the latest weather forecasts will also be of interest. Weather A storm system has been and continues to produce heavier rainfall in the Southern Plains on Wednesday. The rain does come with a risk of severe storms, mostly across parts of central Texas, but the heavy rain should reduce the impacts of the deep drought that have gripped the region. Still, one storm will not eliminate drought. Other showers will move across the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies throughout the day as well. Cold temperatures remain in place with frosts this morning and another day of risk tomorrow across the eastern Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |
Court issues another blow to WOTUS Another day, another ruling against the Biden Administration’s Waters of the United States rule. This time the Sixth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals issued a stay on enforcing the rule in Kentucky until May 10. That means WOTUS is now the law of the land in only 23 states. Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron says the ruling stops the Biden administration from enforcing what he considers to be a burdensome rule. “This is an important win for Kentuckians, especially our farmers, who were being unnecessarily burdened by these new restrictions,” Cameron says. “We are grateful to the court and will be working to make this ruling permanent in the weeks and months ahead.” A federal judge had previously denied a request by the State of Kentucky and the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to issue an injunction against WOTUS. The State and Chamber then asked the appellate court to issue a stay pending their appeal. In their ruling, Circuit Court Judges Ralph Guy, Raymond Kethledge and John Bush said they granted the stay because the federal government failed to identify any particular interest in immediate enforcement of WOTUS. “Given the circumstances, an administrative stay is necessary to preserve the status quo and to provide us with the opportunity to give reasoned consideration to the plaintiff’s motion for an injunction pending appeal,” the judges said in their ruling. This is the latest in a series of legal blows against WOTUS. In March, a federal court judge issued an injunction halting the rule in Texas and Idaho. On April 12, a North Dakota District Court Judge issued an injunction against the law in 24 additional states. While multiple lawsuits continue to make their way through various courts, all eyes remain on the Supreme Court and its ruling in the Sacket v. EPA case. That ruling is expected by early summer. Many observers believe the court’s decision could significantly limit EPA’s regulatory authority.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |
AFBF: Families Deserve Truth in Food Labeling America's families deserve to know what they're buying when shopping in the dairy aisle, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. AFBF Monday filed comments with the Food and Drug Administration. The comments call on the agency to enforce food labeling standards for dairy substitute products and enforce existing prohibitions on the misleading labeling of nut- and other plant-based beverage products as "milk." AFBF supports a consumer's right to access dairy-free products, but one in four Americans, 83 million people, are confused or have been misled about whether dairy alternatives contain milk, according to a survey used by FDA. AFBF Public Policy Vice President Sam Kieffer says, "Consumers know the healthiness of dairy labels such as 'milk' and may infer that any product bearing this term possesses the same or an equivalent nutritional profile." AFBF is urging FDA to require non-dairy products to be labeled accurately, as is required in several markets outside of the U.S. For instance, "almond milk" is labeled "almond beverage" in Canada. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces New National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the appointment of Manjit K. Misra as the new Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Dr. Misra is an esteemed scientist and educator whose devotion to studying and sharing his knowledge of seeds with the world will benefit society and inspire generations to come.” Before joining USDA, Dr. Misra served as a Professor of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. For more than 30 years, he was Director of the university’s Seed Science Center. The center has administered the National Seed Health System, authorized by USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, since 2001. Dr. Misra also was founding Director of the Iowa State’s Biosafety Institute for Genetically Modified Agricultural Products. The NIFA Director leads the agency’s work in advancing agricultural research, education, and extension to solve societal challenges. Dr. Misra will start his new role on Monday, May 8, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Winter Cover Crops Could Reduce Nitrogen in Drainage Water As Corn Belt states seek ways to curb nitrogen flow from farms into the Gulf of Mexico, new research suggests winter cover crops can help. Research from the University of Illinois finds widespread planting of cereal rye in Illinois could reduce nitrate in the state's tile drainage water by 30 percent. The team simulated both cover crop planting and fertilizer timing under real climatic conditions in Illinois between 2001 and 2020. They used a crop simulation model known as Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer, which allows multi-year growth projections for more than 42 crops. Two management implications were revealed in the study. One is that farmers should apply a winter cover crop, such as cereal rye, to reduce tile water flow and nitrate loss by 25 and 30 percent, respectively. The data also reinforced that farmers should switch to spring fertilization, if possible. Cover crop adoption remains low in Illinois and the Midwest despite the availability of cost-sharing programs and growing evidence touting benefits. *********************************************************************************** California Lawmakers Request Disaster Relief for Farmers A coalition of California lawmakers Monday requested a disaster recovery package to aid California farms and ranches devastated by historic storms earlier this year. The coalition, which includes Representatives Jim Costa, Jimmy Panetta and Zoe Lofgren, made the request in a letter to House leadership. The letter states, “We, therefore, request a disaster recovery package be swiftly put together to allow the rebuilding and recovery process to begin,” From December 27, 2022, to January 16, 2023, California had nine atmospheric rivers–each of which held as much water as a hurricane–producing powerful storms. Areas of California saw more than $500 million in estimated flood and storm damage to agricultural operations. Subsequent storms in California from February through March complicate recovery efforts further–with claims filed with the Farm Service Agency already numbering more than 1,000 and assessments still ongoing. California has more agricultural production than any other state in the union, with nearly 70,000 farms operated on 24.3 million acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Number of Limited-Service Restaurants in Rural America Growing The food-away-from-home retail landscape continues to evolve. USDA’s Economic Research Service recently examined the changing food-away-from-home landscape in nonmetropolitan counties between 1990 and 2019, with a focus on the most rural counties. As of 1990, full-service restaurants were the most common restaurant type, making up 76 percent of all food-away-from-home establishments in these counties. However, over the last several decades, the composition shifted. While full-service restaurants remain the most common in rural counties, their prominence has fallen from about 75 percent of establishments to about 50 percent of establishments in 2019. By contrast, quick-service restaurants have become increasingly popular. Quick-service restaurants accounted for 18 percent of the total number of establishments in rural counties in 1990 but have since doubled, making up 36 percent of all food-away-from-home establishments in 2019. USDA researchers conclude that the shift could affect overall food options available for consumers in these rural areas. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Bran Rises as an Ingredient for Enhancing Gluten-Free Bread Sorghum bran, often a low-cost byproduct of sorghum milling, can enhance gluten-free bread's nutritional value without compromising its flavor, according to a new study. USDA’s Agricultural Research Service studied sorghum bran to improve gluten-free foods. One of the USDA researchers says, “we used optimization models to create a gluten-free bread with enhanced dietary fiber while preserving other desirable bread attributes such as color, texture, and flavor.” The study found that people liked the gluten-free bread that contains 14.2 percent sumac sorghum bran. According to the National Institutes of Health, about two million people in the United States have celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, and must avoid dietary gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Additionally, over 20 percent of U.S. consumers purchase gluten-free products without a medical reason. The potential health benefits provided by tannin-containing sorghum bran in gluten-free foods can benefit consumers who must avoid gluten as well as those seeking other food options.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday for a possible export sales announcement. Reports on U.S. new home sales in March and consumer confidence in April will both be out at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly report of cold storage follows at 2 p.m. Weather A storm system will enter into the Southern Plains on Tuesday, with increasing coverage and intensity of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, providing some relief for the hardest-hit drought areas in the country. Colder temperatures continue east of the Rockies, limiting fieldwork and planting.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 24, 2023 |
Natural Gas May Get More Expensive in the Future Natural gas is an important source of energy for U.S. farms. While U.S. natural gas futures prices have fallen sharply recently, CoBank says higher prices and increased volatility could be on the long-term horizon as the energy transition accelerates and European markets respond to recent supply constraints. Rising U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas, fewer opportunities for fuel switching between coal and gas, and supply chain bottlenecks may contribute to higher domestic energy costs in the future. “Over the past 100 years, the U.S. has been a natural gas island with domestic supply sufficient to meet the nation’s requirements,” says a CoBank report. “From a pricing perspective, domestic consumers benefited from their proximity to natural gas reserves and experienced only brief periods of high prices.” However, as natural gas production expanded, it became necessary for exports to grow, increasing potential price volatility as the U.S. and EU markets became more connected. *********************************************************************************** Consumers Save 25 Cents a Gallon With E15 A new analysis from the Renewable Fuels Association shows American drivers saved an average of more than 25 cents per gallon since the beginning of 2022 with E15. RFA analyzed more than 3,000 actual pump prices for E15 and E10 submitted by drivers to E15prices.com. The average of 1,520 prices reported for E10 was $3.69 per gallon, while the average for corresponding E15 prices was $3.41 per gallon. Thus, the average discount for E15 was 27 cents per gallon or 7.4 percent. “The review of prices submitted by drivers shows lower-carbon E15 is providing real savings for American families,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “At a time when U.S. drivers were facing record high gas prices, this report confirms that E15 delivered relief at the pump.” As a result, Cooper’s group is urging the administration to carefully review data as it considers allowing the sale of E15 this summer. *********************************************************************************** FDA Extends Comment Period on Plant-Based “Milk” Labeling The U.S. dairy industry is concerned about plant-based milks in grocery stores carrying the label “milk.” The Food and Drug Administration announced it is reopening the public comment period on draft guidance for labeling plant-based products. “The FDA is reopening the comment period in response to requests from industry stakeholders for more time for interested people to develop and submit comments,” the agency says. Food Safety News says the draft recommendations were initially published in February and are for industry comments on naming plant-based beverages that are marketed and sold as alternatives to milk. The draft guidance also recommends voluntary nutrient statements for labeling some of the plant-based milk alternatives. Products made from plant materials like tree nuts and legumes are often labeled “milk.” The FDA’s draft guidance from February doesn’t apply to other plant-based dairy alternatives like plant-based cheese or yogurt alternatives. Interested parties can submit their comments at regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** China Aims for More Self-Sufficiency in Food Production China is one of the biggest trading partners for the U.S. However, the South China Morning Post says the Southeast Asian nation may be attempting to change that. The country aims to increase soybean production this year in an attempt to become more self-sufficient and import less food. Escalating geopolitical tensions are one of the big reasons for the change. China will try to increase its national soybean yield by 11 pounds per mu, which is a Chinese unit of land measurement equal to approximately 0.165 acres. China imports more than 80 percent of the soybeans used to feed its people and livestock, and shipments come mainly from Brazil and the U.S. That heavy reliance on imported commodities has raised significant governmental concerns about its food security. However, Chinese farmers appear less motivated to grow beans than last year because of the low market price of soybeans and their low benefits. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Releases Final Video in Lamb Quality Series The American Lamb Board released the final video in its five-part series emphasizing lamb quality. The final video’s title is “Retail Meat Yield.” The overall goal of the video series is to help the U.S. lamb industry provide a consistently high-quality product for Americans’ dinner plates. “By emphasizing lean meat growth in U.S. sheep, we can make lambs with more muscle and less fat and improved yield and value,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair. “That increases our commercial lamb industry competitiveness with imported lamb and other animal protein sources.” He also says it’s in the best interest of progressive sheep producers to produce a protein product that consistently meets consumers’ expectations and delights their taste buds.” Trim, muscular lambs harvested at the appropriate time return more value for the entire U.S. sheep and lamb industry. “Retail Meat Yield” is available at LambResourceCenter.com or on the American Lamb Board’s YouTube channel. *********************************************************************************** Corn, Soybean Export Sales Drop Data from USDA shows that corn and soybean sales to overseas buyers declined in the seven days ending on April 13. Exporters sold 312,400 metric tons of corn for offshore delivery for 2022-2023, down 41 percent from the prior week and 79 percent from the four-week average. The top three buyers were China, Saudi Arabia, and Colombia. Exports rose 42 percent to 1.3 million metric tons. USDA says soybean sales were down 73 percent week-over-week to 100,100 metric tons for 2022-2023. The top three buyers were the Netherlands, Mexico, and China. The USDA report says exports dropped 15 percent week-over-week to 582,800 metric tons. Wheat sales improved 91 percent from the prior week and 93 percent from the four-week average, coming in at 259,000 metric tons. South Korea was the top wheat buyer, followed by Taiwan and the Philippines. Overall exports for the week dropped 28 percent to 202,800 metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 24, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Starting a new week, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and be attentive to any news affecting outside markets. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Recent concerns include planting in the Northern Plains, falling soybean prices in China and the condition of Brazil's corn crop. Weather A trough of low-pressure overhead continues cold temperatures across most areas east of the Rockies Monday, including some frosty temperatures this morning as far south as Oklahoma and Tennessee. A small trough moving down the Rockies will develop showers in the Southern Plains later today, which will be enhanced over the next couple of days, bringing optimism for those in drought.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 21, 2023 |
U.S. Government Planning Year-Round Sales of E15 Next Year The Biden administration is planning to begin year-round sales of E15 in 2024. Oil Price Dot Com says the Environmental Protection Agency feels the move will help reduce the retail price of fuel. Eight Midwestern states originally asked the EPA for waivers to provide E15 fuel this summer. EPA chief Michael Regan says the agency studied if they could make the change this year but decided there wasn’t enough time to allow for final adequate rule-making. Regan told the House Agriculture Committee that the agency will look into issuing temporary emergency waivers to allow sales of E15 this summer. The EPA proposed a rule in March that would allow year-round sales of E15 beginning in 2024. “There would be a significant disruption to consumer pricing and the like if we moved too quickly in 2023,” Regan says. “We are confident year-round E15 sales will be ready to go in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma Signs Trade Pact with the UK British Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston signed a trade deal with the state of Oklahoma during a recent trip to Washington, D.C. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt says the pact will focus on increasing trade through wider economic development on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. It will also maintain a focus on reliable and affordable energy. As Oklahoma and the UK grow their economies through increased trade and development cooperation, that will strengthen businesses and create jobs on each side. The agreement will also allow the sides expand academic and research ties, as well as together in agriculture and food production. “Both the United Kingdom and Oklahoma share the same vision for providing reliable, affordable energy for our citizens,” Stitt says. “We can learn a lot from each other.” After the signing, Huddleston said, “I’m delighted that we’ve taken an important step forward in deepening our commercial and economic ties with Oklahoma.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Leading on Climate Coalition The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council have signed a set of principles and a new partnership with National Agricultural Organizations from several other countries. The goal is to constructively engage governments and international organizations around the world on the issues of livestock, agriculture, climate, and trade. The countries in the new partnership include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia, and Colombia. USDEC and the NMPF will coordinate and support engagements with government officials and international organizations in promoting policies that encourage sustainable productivity growth while taking into consideration the unique needs of the livestock industry as well as profitability for farmers. The U.S dairy groups point out that, “Far too often, global convenings and climate proposals reflect ideologies at the expense of science, ignore any progress that the industry already made in reducing emissions, and try to impose one-size-fits-all solutions on industries they don’t fully understand.” *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Wins Environmental and Safety Awards The North American Meat Institute recently held its 2022 environmental awards and worker safety recognition programs. Smithfield Foods won awards for its environmental and safety achievements. “Protecting the environment, including decreasing our carbon footprint, implementing water conservation strategies, and reducing packaging have all been Smithfield priorities for decades,” says Stewart Leeth, chief sustainability officer for Smithfield. “These priorities are all part of our constant commitment to producing good food the right way.” Five Smithfield facilities were recognized with NAMI’s environmental recognition awards, which acknowledge commitment to continuous environmental improvement through the development and implementation of Environmental Management Systems. Forty of the company’s facilities were recognized with Tier 4 awards, the highest recognition in the category. Also, 29 Smithfield locations earned the organization’s highest worker safety recognition awards. Smithfield earned an honorable mention in the DEI category for its industry-leading programs that attract and retain minority and underrepresented employees and customers. *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Improve Flexibility of Farmland Conservation Program Senators Michael Bennett of Colorado and Roger Marshall of Kansas introduced the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Improvement Act. The bill would provide the flexibility family farmers and ranchers need to conserve water on working lands while fairly compensating them for retiring their water rights or limiting their water use. “With the CREP Improvement Act, we can give farmers the flexibility they need to conserve their water supply and pass their operations to their kids and grandkids,” Bennett says. The act would improve the CREP program in several ways, including directing USDA to allow dryland agricultural uses on CREP acreage where appropriate. Other improvements include specifically adding dryland crop production and grazing to the list of appropriate conservation practices for the CREP program. “Time and again, we hear USDA is being too rigid in their interpretation of good programs, and this bill will help give farmers and ranchers more flexibility,” Marshall says. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Legislature Passes Bill Allowing Raw Milk Sales It’s taken years, but the Iowa Legislature gave its final approval on a bill that would allow Iowa residents to buy fresh-from-the-farm raw milk. After several failed attempts, the state Senate approved the final bill 37-13 and sent it to Governor Kim Reynolds for her signature. The bill previously passed the Iowa House with amendments. It allows producers to sell unpasteurized milk from their farms directly to Iowa residents, as well as cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other raw milk products. “I call it the fresh milk bill,” says Senator Jason Schultz, the bill’s manager on the Senate floor. He told the Des Moines Register that he’s waited 17 years for a raw milk bill to get through the Iowa legislature. The bill’s supporters say raw milk tastes better and has more nutrients. Opponents say it can contain bacteria that are dangerous to children and could spark a public health outbreak.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 21, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets After two days of bearish risk-off selling, traders may be a little touchy at the end of the week, but Thursday's economic news was not encouraging. Traders will continue to keep watch over the latest weather developments and any talk of what the Federal Reserve will do on May 3. At 2 p.m. CDT, USDA will issue the cattle on-feed report for April 1, the only significant report of the day. Weather A storm system spinning in northern Minnesota is producing scattered snow showers across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, which may come in short, heavy bursts at times throughout the day. A front is bringing showers from far east Texas to Indiana that will be pushed eastward throughout the day. Cold temperatures are filling in behind the front, which will lead to some frosty morning temperatures in the Plains over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 20, 2023 |
Continuing Contract Negotiations at West Coast Ports Concerning Increasing attention is getting devoted to the West Coast port contract negotiations between the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. The concern is because of the recent and continued slowdowns and temporary work stoppages at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. “Given how the tension between the two parties appears to be increasing, this topic will likely remain a significant point of discussion for the foreseeable future,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. A recent work stoppage from April 6 to April 7 at both ports and the subsequent slowdowns were “deliberately disruptive,” according to the PMA, the group that represents 70 terminal operators. The two parties have been negotiating a new five-year contract since July 1, 2022. These negotiations don’t apply to the bulk of exports of soybeans and grain from Pacific Northwest ports, which operate under separate contracts. *********************************************************************************** Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Rise Growth in farm lending activity at commercial banks was limited in the first quarter of 2023 as interest rates climbed higher. The Kansas City Fed says alongside additional increases in the federal funds’ rates, interest rates on farm loans rose sharply. The rapid rise has shifted the range of rates offered to borrowers considerably higher. Non-real estate farm loan volumes decreased about 10 percent from the previous year in the first quarter of 2023, following average growth of 15 percent in 2022. Lending activity was pushed down by fewer new loans and smaller-sized operating loans. The outlook for farm finances remains favorable alongside elevated commodity prices, but higher interest rates, increased production costs, and drought remain key ongoing concerns. Strong farm income during recent years has bolstered liquidity for many producers and supported historically strong farm loan performance. Despite higher interest rates, the availability of credit remains strong at agricultural banks. *********************************************************************************** USCA Affirming Safety, Transparency of Beef Supply Chain The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association responded to efforts in the Missouri State Legislature to regulate products sold, distributed for use, or administered to a person that are designed to alter their genome. Missouri House Bill 1169 attempts to implement a regulatory framework for labeling products that could act as “gene therapy” or that could potentially impact, alter, or introduce genetic material or a genetic change in the user. This came about because of concerns that mRNA vaccines are being introduced into the nation’s cattle supply. “The USCA strongly supports truth in labeling on consumer goods and full transparency throughout the supply chain,” the group said in a statement. “Currently, there are no mRNA vaccines licensed for beef cattle in the U.S..” Similar legislation is also being introduced in Tennessee, Arizona, and other states. The USCA will be forming a task force to develop a fact- and science-based assessment of the issue. *********************************************************************************** WOTUS Veto Override Fails in Congress The House of Representatives was unsuccessful in getting enough votes to override President Biden’s veto of legislation undoing a rule defining the Clean Water Act’s jurisdiction. The vote failed 227-196 and didn’t meet the two-thirds requirement for overriding a presidential veto. Successful Farming says Republicans persuaded ten Democrats to vote against the Biden EPA’s rule, including House Ag Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) and Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA). The rule specified what wetlands, streams, and other waterways qualify for federal protection as Waters of the United States. Critics like farmers, land developers, and construction companies have called the policy “extreme government overreach.” In March, both the House and Senate passed a disapproval resolution with bipartisan support that would have scrapped Biden’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. Two federal judges have issued preliminary injunctions against implementing the WOTUS rule in 26 states while lawsuits are heard regarding the validity of the regulation. *********************************************************************************** The Number of Dairy Herds Fell in 2022 A USDA report says roughly six percent of U.S. dairy farms quit milking cows in 2022, but that was a slower rate of decline than during the past five years. Twenty years ago, there were 70,375 dairy herds in the country. In 2022, there were 27,932 herds, down from 29,842 in 2021. Calendar-year 2022 saw an exit of 1,910 dairy herds across the nation, which was about six percent of the country’s dairy operations. That compares to a loss of 1,794 herds nationwide, or 5.7 percent of the country’s total, in 2021. However, the decline was larger during the previous three years. Over the past two decades, the U.S. lost an average of 2,300 dairy herds per year. Meanwhile, dairy cow numbers dropped slightly. The average herd size is growing, and per-cow and total milk production have increased. The average dairy herd size reached a record high of 337 head in 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Files Comments on USDA Traceability Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed comments on the USDA’s proposed traceability rule. The rule would emphasize the importance of electronic animal identification to protect the cattle industry from the threat of a foreign animal disease. USDA’s proposed rule would apply to cattle 18 months or older only when moving interstate. “Traceability is about risk protection and ensuring we have the tools to quickly identify and respond to an outbreak while strengthening consumer trust in our high-quality beef,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “Our comments emphasize protecting U.S. cattle herds from the threat of a foreign animal disease while also protecting producers’ private data, limiting the cost of tagging devices, and operating at the speed of commerce.” Without a national traceability system in place, the impact of a foreign animal disease outbreak would be magnified. The system would also support cattle producers in quickly returning to normal operations after an outbreak.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 20, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by U.S. existing home sales in March and an index of U.S. leading indicators at 10 a.m. Weather A system is moving through the middle of the country Thursday morning with a line of thunderstorms from Iowa to Oklahoma, more in the Great Lakes, and snow in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies. The system will continue to wind up over the middle of the country today, with a risk of severe storms from Illinois down through Texas. Winds across the Plains and Midwest will be breezy and more dust storms are possible for western Kansas. Temperatures are falling rapidly behind a cold front moving through.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 19, 2023 |
NPPC Issues Q2 Economic Update The National Pork Producers Council released its second quarter pork industry economic update that provides a look at the top pork industry issues, trends, and market conditions impacting farmers. The report shows pork production increased 2.3 percent through the first quarter, with the USDA now projecting a 1.4 percent annual increase in pork production this year. Retail, wholesale, and farm-level prices show a year-over-year decline. Pork and variety meat exports gained momentum in the first quarter of 2023. Pork producer returns for the remainder of this year will be influenced by various factors, including domestic and export pork demand and input prices. “The U.S. is a worldwide leader in pork production, which is a significant contributor to the U.S. economy,” says Duane Stateler, NPPC Vice President. “Pork producers will continue navigating the economic challenges to ensure we raise safe, wholesome, and affordable food for communities here and around the world.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Grassland Conservation Reserve Program Signup The USDA announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin signing up for the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program now through May 26. Among CRP enrollment opportunities, Grassland CRP is a unique working lands program, allowing producers and landowners to continue haying and grazing practices while conserving grasslands and promoting plant and animal biodiversity as well as healthier soil. “Grassland CRP clearly demonstrates that agricultural productivity and conservation priorities can not only coexist but also complement and enhance one another,” says Zach Ducheneaux, administrator of the Farm Service Agency. “The strength of the program lies in its many benefits.” More than 3.1 million acres were accepted through the 2022 Grassland CRP signup from agricultural producers and private landowners. That was the highest-ever level of signups for the program. The current total participation in Grassland CRP is 6.3 million acres. For information or to signup, go to your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Wall Street Rules Don’t Belong on Family Farms Wall Street rules intended for publicly-traded companies shouldn’t extend to family farms. That’s the message from the American Farm Bureau and six other agricultural groups to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The SEC proposed a rule to require public companies to report on Scope 3 emissions, which are the result of activities not owned or controlled by a publicly-traded company but contribute to its value chain. Public companies that produce goods from agricultural products would need to report emissions from the relevant agricultural operations. The farm groups’ concern is that the rule will burden family farmers and ranchers and drive further consolidation in agriculture, all for no real environmental benefit. “The tracking will be extremely expensive, invasive, and burdensome for farmers and ranchers, at the cost of improved production practices that will generate actual environmental gains,” the groups say in the letter to the SEC. “Family farms will get hit hardest.” *********************************************************************************** Scott Condemns SNAP Work Requirements House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) released a statement responding to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s debt limit framework. If that framework gets passed as proposed, it will include what Scott calls additional “punitive” work requirements for SNAP participation. “Let me be perfectly clear,” Scott says. “Holding food assistance hostage for those who depend on it, including 15.3 million children, 5.8 million seniors, and 1.2 million veterans, in exchange for increasing the debt limit is a non-starter.” He also points out that the “ransom note” McCarthy unveiled in front of a crowd of Wall Street bankers is dead on arrival. “Republican attempts to punish low-income families to pay for tax cuts they pushed through under President Trump will not result in self-sufficiency,” Scott says. “It will only drastically increase hunger for our American people.” He says the additional work requirements on top of already-existing work rules won’t spur economic growth. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers More Funding for Expanding High-Speed Internet in Rural Areas The USDA announced the availability of $20 million to deliver broadband technical assistance resources for rural communities and to support the development and expansion of broadband co-ops. The agency is offering the funding under the new Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The program supports technical assistance projects such as feasibility studies, completing network designs, and developing broadband financial assistance applications. Applicants can choose from one of three funding pools. “USDA is committed to making sure that people, no matter where they live, have access to high-speed internet,” says USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small. “That’s how you grow the economy not just in rural communities but across the nation.” The undersecretary also says the agency is partnering with small towns, local utilities, cooperatives, and private companies to increase access to a critical service. “The service builds brighter futures by creating more opportunities across rural America,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Ag Retailers Association List Top Five Farm Bill Priorities The Ag Retailers Association says it’s cautiously optimistic the Farm Bill gets written on time. However, the association is worried that debt limit discussions may interfere. It’s going to be tough this year with the farm bill coming up right as the debt ceiling discussion hits the deadline,” says Hunter Carpenter with the Ag Retailers Association. “I’m cautiously optimistic.” The group has five priorities they’re advocating for in the bill. They want the continuation of a strong farm safety net and crop insurance. They want to maintain the current acreage dedicated to conservation programs. Other priorities revolve around biologicals. The previous farm bill started to build a structure around defining plant biologicals. The new farm bill can go further in providing uniform definitions. They’d like to see the farm bill support research functions of USDA, including the National Agricultural Statistics Service. “We’re pushing hard to get it done this year,” he says.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 19, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will follow at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather events around the world as the northern Hemisphere gradually shakes off a long winter season. Weather A multi-pronged system is moving into the Plains Wednesday and will be setting up conditions that favor increasing showers and thunderstorms across the middle of the country throughout the day, including some severe thunderstorms for the eastern Plains into Iowa. Across the north, it is cold enough for areas of snow in Montana, North Dakota and across the border into Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where snowfall is likely to be heavy. Winds continue to be breezy across the Plains, which is unfavorable for crops in drought, mainly wheat.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 18, 2023 |
Farm Credit Reports on Ag Economy and Condition of Its System The Farm Credit Administration recently received a quarterly update on economic issues affecting agriculture as well as an update on the performance of the Farm Credit System through 2022. Inflation continues to be a core economic issue despite recent declines. Inflation has been driven, in part, by a tight labor market and rising production costs and consumer demand. The report also says strong prices for many commodities have continued into 2023. Tight global grain stocks, declining cattle inventory, and disruptions to specialty crop production continued to support prices. Input costs will remain high this year and curb farm profitability. With the end of the three-year La Niña pattern, drought conditions have improved across many parts of the country. The update also says the System reported strong financial results in 2022, including strong loan growth and higher earnings. The System’s loan portfolio continued to perform well, and portfolio credit quality remained strong. *********************************************************************************** Consider Corn Challenge Still Finding New Uses for Corn The National Corn Growers Association is launching its fourth Consider Corn Challenge. The open-innovation contest invites participants to submit proposals for new uses of field corn as a primary feedstock for producing novel sustainable chemicals and products with quantifiable market demand. “Consumers have a genuine interest in biobased products, and corn is investing in solutions that meet that need,” says NCGA Market Development Action Team Chair Troy Schneider. “In order to continue drawing in game-changing participation, the prize pool has increased to $250,000.” If all 15 winners of the first three Consider Corn Challenges reach full commercialization with products in the marketplace, the potential for additional corn demand would be approximately 3.4 billion bushels. One to six winners will be selected for the fourth Consider Corn Challenge. The submission deadline is June 30 at 5 p.m. Central Time, and winners will be announced in October. To learn more, go to ncga.com/ConsiderCorn. *********************************************************************************** NFU Supports Torres Small for Deputy Ag Secretary The National Farmers Union released a letter in support of the nomination and confirmation of Xochitl (Zo-CHEEL) Torres Small to serve as the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture at USDA. NFU President Rob Larew says current Under Secretary for Rural Development Torres Small has tirelessly served family farmers in New Mexico and the country. “She’s done amazing work for rural communities and supply chains that support our entire economy,” says Larew. “I’m proud to share our support knowing that Under Secretary Torres Small will make a positive impact as Deputy Secretary of the USDA.” NFU has a long history with Torres Small going back to her time as a member of Congress when she represented family farmers and ranchers in New Mexico. NFU urges the Senate Committee on Agriculture to advance Torres Small’s nomination to serve as Deputy Secretary of USDA and looks forward to working with her in the new role. *********************************************************************************** Taylor Leads USDA Trade Mission to the Netherlands USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor launched the first-ever regional agribusiness trade mission to the Netherlands in Amsterdam. The delegation includes representatives from 31 agribusiness and farm organizations and ten state departments of agriculture. The group aims to expand economic partnerships between the U.S. and the Netherlands and markets throughout Scandinavia. “As the gateway to Europe for U.S. exports, the Netherlands is an important trading partner,” Taylor says. “Company representatives from Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden are joining us in Amsterdam.” She also says with combined total agricultural and related exports to these markets topping $4.5 billion in 2022, Taylor is confident the delegation will be successful in building new relationships that are critical to expanding opportunities for increased trade. USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between small and medium-sized agribusinesses and regional buyers looking to import American farm and food products. *********************************************************************************** Optimism Despite Headwinds in the Ag Equipment Market Equipment manufacturers are still recovering from pressures brought on by COVID-19, but they’re working toward a state of normalcy despite trials and tribulations. Kip Eideberg is the Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Eideberg says supply chain pressures and a lack of workforce retention have been ongoing struggles for the industry, and individual sectors are facing their own problems as well. A recent AEM survey of its members detailed the strains and pressures that have built up in the global ag sector during the last few years. “Overall, far too many equipment manufacturers still feel the impact of COVID and supply chain disruptions in operations, lead times on components, labor force participation, and financial performance,” says Eideberg. In tracking sales and global data, the ag equipment market is in a good position right now, and there’s more optimism moving forward despite economic headwinds. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Farmland Prices Up 45 Percent in Two Years Illinois farmland prices continued their upward curve in the last several years, and it applies to all classes of farmland throughout the state. That’s according to a report issued during the 2023 Illinois Farmland Values Conference sponsored by the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. Last year continued to see a sharp rise in land values. While certain parts of the state saw more strength than others, Illinois land values were up across the board. Class A land across Illinois rose 45 percent from 2021-2022. While premium acreage always carries the flag, the report says lesser quality acreage saw increases of over 25 percent and, in some instances, over 40 percent during the same period. The state’s professional farmland managers and appraisers said reduced transactions in 2020, historically-low interest rates, strong demand, increased commodity prices, and overall fear in other economic sectors all play a role in rising prices.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 18, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Overnight, China reported first quarter GDP was up 4.5% from a year ago, better than expected, reported RTTNews.com. China's unemployment rate was 5.3% in March, also better than expected. A report on U.S. housing starts in March will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. In addition to watching the latest weather developments, traders may be leery of Russia's next move. Weather A storm system in the West will move into the Plains on Tuesday, increasing showers and a few thunderstorms. Bouts of snow will develop over the far Northern Plains and into the Canadian Prairies. Winds will also be a little breezy in the Plains, unfavorable for winter wheat.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |
Texas Barn Fire Kills 18,000 Dairy Cattle A Texas dairy farm suffered an explosion and fire that possibly resulted in the largest single-incident livestock death toll in history. Agriculture Dot Com says the Southfork Dairy Farm in Dimmitt, Texas, reports approximately 18,000 dairy cattle died in the blaze. The Castro County Sheriff’s Office said that was about 90 percent of the farm’s total herd. Investigators are working to find out the cause of the devastating fire. “They’re trying to determine if it came from machinery known as a honey wagon that sucks out manure and water,” says Castro County Sheriff Sal Rivera. “It may have possibly ignited methane gas.” The farm employs 60 workers, and all were accounted for. One female was trapped inside, and first responders were able to rescue her from the structure and airlifted her to a nearby hospital, where she’s critical but stable. Southfork Dairy Farm had been running for less than a year. *********************************************************************************** Brazil’s Record Soybean Harvest Continuing Brazil’s farmers will produce 153.6 million metric tons of soybeans this year. CONAB (KOH-nab), a private company that works under Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, says that’s up 1.5 percent from their outlook last month. The USDA had projected Brazil’s soybean harvest to reach 154 million metric tons, one million tons higher than the previous forecast. USDA data showed that Brazil produced 130.5 million metric tons a year ago. Global soybean stocks were forecast by the agency at 100.3 million metric tons, up from the prior forecast of 100 million. If reached, that would be up from 99.7 million tons a year earlier. Brazil’s CONAB also expects the country’s corn production to reach a record 124.9 million metric tons, slightly higher than last month’s forecast. The forecast for Argentina’s soybean harvest continues to drop, coming in at 27 million metric tons. That’s six million tons lower than the March USDA forecast. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Conservationists Ask Court to Strike Down Dicamba Public-interest groups representing farmers and conservationists filed arguments in court seeking to have the Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of dicamba struck down. The arguments are a continuation of an earlier lawsuit that resulted in a 2020 court ruling overturning prior approvals of dicamba as unlawful. The groups say the new litigation was prompted by the EPA’s decision to ignore the court’s ruling and move forward with reapproving the pesticide. “We now have years of incontrovertible evidence revealing that these dicamba products cannot be used without causing grave harm to other farmers and the environment,” says George Kimbrell, legal director of the Center for Food Safety and counsel in the case. The petitioners say dicamba drift and runoff damage natural areas and wildlife refuges, injuring wild flowering plants, including some federally-protected species on which bees and other insects rely. Plaintiff groups include the National Family Farm Coalition, Pesticide Action Network, and others. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Urged to Deny Petitions on Make Allowance Hearing The American Dairy Coalition sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to deny two recent petitions for hearings on the Federal Milk Marketing Order. The petitions from processor groups ask USDA to increase payments from farmers to processors to offset higher input costs. The coalition says holding a federal milk pricing hearing on these “make-allowances” without looking into additional concerns facing dairy farmers is misaligned, and therefore ADC can’t support it. “As a grassroots dairy farmer organization, ADC believes a comprehensive FMMO hearing is needed,” says ADC CEO Laurie Fischer. “We do not support ‘make allowance’ updates based on processors having the ability to voluntarily participate in the cost surveys, which undoubtedly would exclude essential relevant data.” ADC also says farmers need transparency in order to understand how their net payment is calculated, and these make allowances are not line items, but they’re embedded in pricing formulas. *********************************************************************************** Ford Phasing Out AM Radios Globally Ford Canada confirms that it’s removing AM radios from all vehicles globally. Ford’s Canadian division says Canada will no longer have access to the AM band in upcoming vehicles. Radio Ink Dot Com says it’s the first confirmation that removing AM from dashboards won’t be isolated to the U.S. A Ford Canada spokesperson says that to listen to AM, all drivers have to do is link their phones to the vehicles entertainment system and stream the stations they’re looking for. Canada has more than 180 AM radio stations. Many of those stations broadcast news and information needed in remote areas that have less than ideal data coverage, making streaming difficult, if not impossible. The Canadian Association of Broadcasters says this marks another profound challenge to AM radio. “It’s unfortunate that the assumption is made that internet streaming of stations will be a suitable substitute in remote Canadian areas,” the group says. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Planted Area Projected at Seven-Year High The National Agricultural Statistics Service recently estimated the total U.S. 2023-2024 wheat planted area will be 49.9 million acres. That’s up nine percent from the previous year and would be the highest total since 2016-2017. The total winter wheat area is projected up 13 percent as high prices and strong profitability provides major incentives to plant. Hard Red Winter Wheat is projected up 13 percent to 26 million acres, even higher than the January 12 forecast. HRW production regions continue to be impacted by drought, which is likely to affect harvested area and yield. Soft Red Winter Wheat plantings are forecast up 19 percent from the previous year to 7.8 million acres, slightly below the January forecast. Hard Red Spring area is projected down three percent to ten million acres. But the area planted for this class will depend on planting conditions. Durum is projected up nine percent to 1.8 million acres.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Field Progress, Frost Watch and Cattle on Feed OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of April 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Frosty week: Weather models took a turn to the colder side as the weekend approached. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick is watching to see if the trend continues through the week. This could bring frost to hard red winter areas, but unlikely be cold enough or long enough to cause much further damage. And, while planters have begun to move, it's also unlikely that there are too many emerged plants in the path of any significant frosts. Early planted gardens might benefit from some cover, however, on species prone to frost damage. 2. Fertilizer trending lower: Our DTN Staff Reporter Russ Quinn, who keeps a close eye on the fertilizer beat, has been documenting the downtrend in fertilizer prices -- and has noted anhydrous prices getting close to that $1,000 level. He'll report where prices landed the previous week. 3. Dairy disaster: We've been reporting on the terrible fire and cattle deaths at the dairy in Dimmit, Texas. Progressive Farmer Senior Editor Victoria Myers will continue following the saga to see if there are lessons to be learned for other large animal units. 4. Market news on our radar: DTN analysts will watch several market-moving actions through the week, especially the ongoing saga of the Black Sea grain deal. We'll have the USDA weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, with soybean crush numbers from the National Oilseeds Processors Association later Monday morning. Also on Monday, at 3 p.m. CDT, USDA's Crop Progress and Livestock, Dairy and Poultry reports will be out. It will be interesting to see how planting progressed with the warmer weather the week of April 9. 5. Latest cattle call: Friday will see the USDA Cattle on Feed report, due out around 3 p.m. CDT. Watch for preview thoughts ahead of that, and DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart's thoughts on the report soon after its release.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will get acquainted with the latest weather forecasts and any news, especially regarding Russian comments about the Black Sea grain deal. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by a report on members' soybean crush from the National Oilseeds Processors Association, later Monday morning. At 3 p.m., USDA's Crop Progress and Livestock, Dairy and Poultry reports will be out. Weather A storm system continues to bring snow to the Great Lakes area Monday, including heavy snow for parts of Wisconsin. This system will be winding down tonight but there is another one entering the Pacific Northwest which will send several pieces of energy through the country for the rest of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 14, 2023 |
Colorado Passes First Right to Repair Legislation Colorado farmers will get the first opportunity to fix their own equipment next year, thanks to newly-approved right-to-repair legislation. Manufacturers will now be required to provide their customers with diagnostic software manuals and other aids. Colorado is the first U.S. state to approve this kind of law. The “Consumer Right to Repair Agriculture Equipment Act” passed the Colorado Senate 46-14 this week, while the state House passed the bill in February. The bill had bipartisan support as farmers’ profits were squeezed by expensive repairs and rapidly rising input prices. The legislation mandates that farm machinery manufacturers like Deere and CNH Industrial furnish their customers with diagnostic tools, software documents, and repair manuals beginning on January 1, 2024. Manufacturers must also provide those resources to independent technicians. A Deere spokesman told Reuters that the company supports farmers’ right to repair but believes this bill wasn’t necessary and will carry unintended consequences. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Respond Positively to Court Halting WOTUS Rule A court ruling out of North Dakota halted implementation of the 2023 Waters of the United States Rule in 24 states, and ag groups responded positively. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group proudly stood with the 24 states involved and more than a dozen organizations in this challenge. “Two District Courts have acknowledged the new rule oversteps EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act,” Duvall says. “With the rule on hold in more than half the country, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps should do the right thing, listen to our legitimate concerns, and rewrite the rule.” The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association also applauded the court’s decision. “Cattle producers in a total of 26 states now have some additional certainty while this rule is being litigated, and we’re optimistic the Supreme Court will provide nationwide clarity on the federal government’s water jurisdiction,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Foundation Opens 2023-2024 Scholarship Applications The National Sorghum Foundation opened three scholarship applications for college students studying agriculture in the upcoming 2023-2024 academic year. The application deadline is June 1, 2023. In the 22 years that the National Sorghum Foundation has been in operation, more than 50 scholarships have been awarded to deserving agricultural students who excel in academics, leadership, and service. “The Foundation is excited to announce that three scholarships will be offered during the spring 2023 semester,” says National Sorghum Foundation Chair Jeff Dahlberg. “These scholarships are named in memory of three giants of the sorghum industry who served for many decades.” Each scholarship includes an award of $1,500 to be applied to one semester of tuition expenses, and one scholarship also includes an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., with the National Sorghum Producers. More information about each scholarship’s criteria and application forms for each scholarship can be found online at SorghumGrowers.com/foundation-scholarships. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Most Improved Award Winner in Best Place to Work Rankings The USDA announced that it’s received recognition for being the “Most Improved” for large federal agencies in the Partnership for Public Service’s 2022 Best Places to Work Rankings. The department now ranks 12th among very large agencies in the Best Places to Work Rankings, up from a 16th place ranking in 2020. “At USDA, we are committed to reaching new heights by cultivating a workplace environment that is collaborative, service-oriented, mission-centered, healthy, and inclusive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I’m pleased to see these results as we strive to live up to the moniker of ‘the People’s Department,’ and we will continue to move forward with a strong commitment to making improvements on behalf of all employees, attracting talent that represents the diversity of America, and putting people at the center of everything we do.” He says they’re working together to create an engaging environment and cultivate an exceptional workforce. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Potato Exports Hi $2.1 Billion in 2022 Potato exports reached a record $2.1 billion in sales in 2022. Compared to 2021, volume sales dropped 4.2 percent but were higher than in 2018 and 2020. The value of U.S. potato exports rose across all potato types, resulting in an 11 percent increase over the previous year. Global price hikes and inflation can be attributed to this growth. Demand for U.S. potatoes remained strong in 2022, showing that the slight drop in export volume resulted from tight supply. Over the year, the top export markets for U.S. potatoes were Mexico, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, in descending order. The value of U.S. frozen potato exports rose almost 14 percent, reaching $1.34 billion. However, volume dropped 2.5 percent compared to 2021. The top destinations for U.S. frozen potatoes were Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the Philippines. Potatoes USA says despite inflation-driven price increases of U.S. products, global potato demand remained strong. *********************************************************************************** Iowa House Passes Bill Restricting Drone Surveillance of Livestock Facilities The Iowa House of Representatives passed a bill that restricts drone surveillance of livestock facilities without permission from the property owner. If House File 572 becomes law, remotely piloted aircraft couldn’t fly within 400 feet of homesteads or other areas where animals are kept. People caught in violation would face a simple misdemeanor for intruding on farm airspace. If the device happens to record images, sounds, or other data, that increases the penalty to a serious misdemeanor charge. Agriculture Dot Com says the bill comes in response to animal welfare organizations documenting the conditions and treatment of animals at Iowa’s livestock and dog-breeding facilities. Iowa’s legislators have repeatedly passed “ag-gag” laws to attempt to criminally penalize activists who record and publish images and videos of livestock facilities. Judges have ruled in the past that those laws are unconstitutional. Rep Derek Wulf says the bill “provides privacy rights for our farmers and ranchers.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 14, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on March retail sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the Fed's report on March industrial production at 8:15 and a consumer sentiment index for April at 9 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and watch for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather A disturbance continues to move northeast out of the Gulf of Mexico, spreading showers through the Southeast on Friday. Behind it, another system is leaving the Rockies with increasing showers across the Plains and Upper Midwest. It remains very warm ahead of this system, with another day or two of good weather for fieldwork for some areas before a more active pattern starts back up.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 13, 2023 |
EPA’s Tailpipe Standards Overlook Ethanol’s Low-Carbon Benefits The Environmental Protection Agency released its proposed tailpipe emissions standards for 2027 and beyond. The Renewable Fuels Association says the agency blatantly tipped the scales in favor of electric battery vehicles. The EPA also overlooked a significant near-term opportunity to achieve significant vehicle efficiency improvements and carbon emissions reductions through increased use of high-octane, low-carbon ethanol fuel blends. “We strongly disagree with the policy approaches that arbitrarily pick technology winners and losers with no clear scientific basis,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. RFA points out that a flex fuel vehicle running on E85 made from certain forms of ethanol would provide similar or even lower carbon emissions at a far lower cost. “Today’s EPA proposal would effectively force automakers to produce more electric battery vehicles and strongly discourage them from pursuing other technologies that could achieve the same or better environmental performance at a lower cost for families,” Cooper says. *********************************************************************************** Court Grants Request to Block Biden Administration’s WOTUS Rule in 24 States The U.S. District Court of North Dakota issued a preliminary injunction against the Biden administration from implementing its final rule redefining the Waters of the United States in 24 states. The court’s move comes in response to a motion filed by Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen. According to the Montana Farm Bureau Federation, estimates from the similar Obama-era rule would have placed nearly 90 percent of Montana’s land under the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency. “This injunction resulting from our lawsuit is welcome relief to farmers and ranchers and workers in mining, energy, and other industries who would be harmed if this unconstitutional rule is allowed to take effect,” Attorney General Knudsen says. “This is just the first step to stopping the overreaching WOTUS rule.” Knudsen also says he will continue to fight the Biden administration and prevent them from claiming federal jurisdiction over massive swaths of land and water. *********************************************************************************** China Is Now the World’s Largest Wheat Importer The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service issued its “Grain: World Markets and Trade Report” and says China is now the biggest wheat importer in the world. The report says China’s wheat imports are forecast up to 12 million tons this year, the country’s highest level of imports since 1995-1996, when imports totaled 12.5 million tons. China’s domestic grain prices have remained high given the country’s minimum support price policy and reduced auction activity amidst uncertainty surrounding the government’s COVID policies. Chinese wheat prices have lingered around $450 per ton during the past year, while China’s corn prices averaged $400 per ton. FAS says competitive pricing has prompted China to import large volumes of both milling and feed-quality wheat. Australian wheat is especially competitive following three consecutive years of record crops. China continues to aggressively import Australian wheat supplies, with July through February wheat imports up 66 percent compared to the previous year. *********************************************************************************** Harvester Sales Continue Recent Gains Combine harvester sales in the U.S. and Canada continued growing while tractor unit sales stayed close to their five-year average. That’s according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Overall, U.S. ag tractor sales continued sliding in March despite gains in the four-wheel drive segments, which were up 106 percent. U.S. self-propelled combine sales grew 45 percent in March, keeping the year-to-date gains above 100 percent. All other tractor segments fell, with the sub-40 horsepower segment leading the losses in March by dropping 14.2 percent. Total U.S. farm tractor sales fell 12.1 percent compared to March 2022 and are down 15.1 percent this year. In Canada, combine harvester sales continue growing, up 190 percent for the month and almost 200 percent year to date. Total Canadian tractor sales finished March down 24 percent. “The March tractor and combine report is a mixed bag,” says Curt Blades of AEM. *********************************************************************************** NPB Hires First Chief Sustainability Officer The National Pork Board has hired James “Jamie” Burr as its first Chief Sustainability Officer. Burr brings over 20 years of experience to help the pork industry meet sustainability goals in his new role. “Jamie’s input has been invaluable to several key producer-funded initiatives for over a decade,” says Bill Even, National Pork Board CEO. “He’s served on and chaired several Pork Board environmental and sustainability committees and task forces, so his leadership has already helped shape the industry’s sustainability vision.” Even also says establishing a CSO position and adding Burr to the team continues to demonstrate the industry’s strong commitment to advancing pork sustainability. Burr comes to the NPB from Tyson Foods, where he recently served as director of environmental compliance and was the environmental lead for all of Tyson’s live-animal production businesses. Burr earned a Master’s Degree in Soil Science and a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from Missouri State University. *********************************************************************************** Food Help on the Way to Arkansas After Tornadoes, Severe Storms Approximately 7,000 families in Cross and Pulaski Counties in Arkansas were hit hard by recent tornadoes and severe storms. They’ll soon get food packages containing nutritious, high-quality foods that are 100 percent grown and produced on farms in the U.S. The packages are known as USDA Foods. “In challenging times like this, USDA plays a critical role in supporting Americans, and none are more challenging than climate-related disasters that threaten lives, destroy communities, and disrupt food systems,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Until their recovery is complete, we will continue to coordinate with our state, local, and federal partners to help get food and nutrition assistance to them when they need it most.” The Disaster Household Distribution program was approved to start on April 7. Arkansas officials will work directly with partners and local food banks to issue food boxes to participants located in affected areas. More information is available at fns.usda.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 13, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for March and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department reports on natural gas in storage at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep track of the latest weather developments, especially in the U.S. and Brazil. Weather A storm system moving north from the Gulf of Mexico is spreading showers into the Southeast on Thursday. Another system moving through the West will see showers increasing across the Plains as well. Some heavy snow will move through Montana while the snowpack farther east will continue melting. Warm and breezy conditions continue ahead of the storm system with another good day for fieldwork occurring for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |
WOTUS Stopped in 26 States After Ruling - Federal Judge in North Dakota Issues Injunction in 24 States OMAHA (DTN) -- The waters of the U.S. rule is now on hold in 26 states after a federal judge in North Dakota issued a preliminary injunction on Wednesday in the 24 states that filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration. The U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota's ruling now prevents enforcement of the WOTUS rule in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Texas and Idaho previously received an injunction from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The states along with several agriculture and other industry groups have argued in the lawsuit the latest WOTUS rule is a federal overreach and would exact serious costs to states and others to comply. In his opinion and order, Judge Daniel L. Hovland said he agreed. "The numerous declarations filed in this case by state officials outline in detail the specific costs of state compliance with the EPA's new 2023 rule, as well as the significant infringement on state sovereignty that confers standing on the named plaintiffs," Hovland said in the ruling. "The 2023 rule does cause injury to states because they are the direct object of its requirements. And the states are also landowners with direct obligations under the Clean Water Act. There is not a mere possibility the new regulations will impact the states -- it is a given. The irreparable harm to the states that occurs with the implementation of the new 2023 rule is clear and undisputed." Ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation had asked the court to issue a national injunction against the rule, but the judge stopped short of that. The track the legal challenges to the new rule are taking is nearly identical to what occurred with the 2015 rule. At one point during the legal battles on the Obama-era rule, there was a near 50-50 split on where the rule was being enforced. AG REACTION The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, one of the ag groups intervening in the lawsuit in North Dakota, said the ruling was important. "Once again, the courts have affirmed that the Biden administration's WOTUS rule is overreaching and harmful to America's beef farmers and ranchers," NCBA President Todd Wilkinson said in a statement. "Cattle producers in 26 states now have some additional certainty while this rule is being litigated, and we are optimistic that the Supreme Court will provide nationwide clarity on the federal government's proper jurisdiction over water." Sometime this spring it is expected the Supreme Court will issue a ruling in Sackett v EPA. A ruling could determine how EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers make Clean Water Act determinations -- particularly when it comes to wetlands. Agriculture and other groups pressed the agencies to hold off issuing the new rule until after the Supreme Court delivers an opinion. Hovland criticized EPA for moving forward with a rule while the Supreme Court ruling was pending. "There is little public interest or any efficiency gained by implementing a new rule which codifies the 'significant nexus' test before the United States Supreme Court issues a decision in Sackett," Hovland said in the opinion. Hovland added, "Common sense dictates that it only makes sense to wait. There is no urgency to implement the 2023 rule. The Supreme Court's decision in Sackett will be issued by June 2023 and will likely address many of the unresolved legal issues and jurisdictional determinations at the heart of this lawsuit." Environmental groups and the federal agencies have tried to make the case that an injunction will lead to further environmental damage to water resources. The judge disagreed. "There is no legitimate concern that natural resources are threatened because all local lands and waters remain under the state's traditional protection," Hovland said in the opinion. "A delay allows for a full and final resolution on the merits and is in the best interests of the public. The court finds that a far broader segment of the public would benefit from a preliminary injunction because it would ensure that federal agencies do not extend their power beyond the express delegation from Congress."
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |
USDA Releases April WASDE Report USDA’s latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report offers few changes to the outlook for corn, soybeans and wheat. Released Tuesday, this month's 2022/23 U.S. corn outlook predicts reductions to imports and food, seed, and industrial use, with unchanged ending stocks. Corn imports are lowered ten million bushels based on observed trade to date. The season-average farm price was unchanged at $6.60 per bushel. The U.S. soybean supply and use forecasts for 2022/23 are unchanged relative to last month. Soybean and soybean meal prices are also unchanged. The soybean oil price is projected at 64.0 cents per pound, down two cents. This is the second-straight month USDA did not change the season-average soybean price per bushel, at $14.30. This month's outlook for 2022/23 U.S. wheat predicts slightly higher supplies, reduced domestic use, unchanged exports, and increased ending stocks. The 2022/23 season-average farm price is forecast $0.10 per bushel lower at $8.90. *********************************************************************************** West Coast Port Labor Disagreements Could Be Dangerous, Permanent The lack of a West Coast labor contract between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association could be dangerous and permanent. That's according to the Agriculture Transportation Coalition. Coalition Executive Director Peter Friedmann says, "Too many West Coast marine terminals are operating on reduced schedules, creating massive disruption." Shippers are moving cargo from the West Coast to ports on the East Coast. Friedmann says that could be a permanent move. West Coast ports are essential to the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural exporters. U.S. agriculture's largest international markets are in the Asia Pacific, and the most direct and fastest route is by truck or rail to the West Coast gateways. U.S. ag faces extremely competitive global sourcing competition, so it must be faster and less expensive than other exporters. Friedmann adds, "If the import cargo and the ships carrying it is trending to U.S. East Coast ports and away from the West Coast, exporters have fewer vessel sailings." *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant Funding Research to Reduce Beef Ghg Emissions The Department of Agriculture is investing $40 million this year for 31 projects through its Conservation Innovation Grants. One grant includes the Innovative Technologies to Reduce Beef Industry Ghg Emissions project led by Colorado State University. The investments emphasize adoption and implementation of climate-smart practices, including nutrient management, which helps producers manage nutrients and soil amendments to maximize their economic benefit while minimizing their environmental impact. NRCS Colorado State Conservationist Clint Evans says, “These investments move the needle in helping agricultural producers adopt and implement climate-smart practices, including nutrient management.” This year, NRCS is investing $25 million through On-Farm Trials, which supports adoption and evaluation of innovative conservation approaches. Incentive payments are provided to producers to offset the risk of implementing innovative approaches. Colorado State University received $1 million for the project to generate science-based estimates of CO2-equivalent emissions from the livestock grazing and finishing sectors using novel technologies and evaluate potential CO2e reductions from conservation practices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeking Applications to Expand Conservation Assistance to Underserved Producers The Department of Agriculture reminded farmers and ranchers this week the agency is seeking applications for projects that will improve outreach to underserved producers. Specifically, USDA wants to improve outreach about conservation programs and services and opportunities for students to pursue careers in agriculture, natural resources and related sciences. USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering up to $70 million in cooperative agreements with entities for two-year projects encouraging participation in NRCS programs, especially in underserved communities and urban and small-scale producers. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says, “The projects funded through this opportunity will better ensure these producers receive the benefits our conservation programs deliver.” The funding opportunity builds on NRCS’ fiscal year 2022 investment of $50 million in more than 100 partnerships to expand access to conservation assistance for climate-smart agriculture and forestry. The application deadline is April 27. Applications information and guidance is available online at grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Researchers Develop Natural, Washable Antimicrobial Cleaning Wipes Most antimicrobial wipes, predominantly made of synthetic fibers like polyester and polypropylene, are discarded after a single use and end up in landfills. However, USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists recently developed sustainable, machine-washable antimicrobial wipes that can be used at least 30 times for cleaning hard and nonporous surfaces. ARS researchers developed antimicrobial wipes by using raw cotton fiber that naturally produced silver nanoparticles inside the fiber. These embedded nanoparticles can then release ions that act as antibacterial agents and kill harmful bacteria. The researchers say people will be able to clean surfaces by wetting the antimicrobial cloths with tap water and then wiping surfaces. In their research, scientists found that the wipes killed 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria on surfaces. The worldwide antimicrobial wipes market is estimated to reach $21.6 billion by 2030, According to the Antimicrobial Wipes Market Outlook report. *********************************************************************************** Alltech Feed Division Announces New Leadership Roles Alltech Tuesday announced new leadership roles within the Alltech feed division. Scot Harold will assume commercial leadership as executive vice president, Feed & Premix, and Brian Gier joins the company as vice president of sales for Hubbard Feeds. Alltech COO Mike Castle says, “Scot and Brian will bring leadership and experience that will enable us to capitalize on opportunities within our feed business.” Harold joined Alltech in 2020 as the director of sales for Ridley Feed Ingredients, part of the Alltech feed division. He will work with the leadership team to develop and implement strategy for growth of the feed business while strengthening alignment across the feed, premix and specialty ingredients teams. Before joining Alltech, Harold served as Cargill Animal Nutrition's national sales leader for both the Dealer & Multi-Store Ag Retailer segments. Alltech welcomes Gier to the team from Purina Mills, where he served as vice president of sales.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for March is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will have minutes from the latest FOMC meeting and the U.S. Treasury will report on the federal budget for March. Weather A pair of systems are entrenching on the country Wednesday. One over the Gulf of Mexico will start to bring showers northward into the coast for the next couple of days. Another is moving into the West and Canadian Prairies where showers will expand into the Northern Plains. That includes some snow in spots. Breezy winds across the Plains and Midwest are a risk for spreading wildfires, though the warmth continues to be a boon for fieldwork and early planting. The snowpack across the north has taken a major hit and flooding is starting up.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 11, 2023 |
World Food Price Index Continues Decline The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Food Price Index averaged 126.9 points in March 2023, down 2.8 points or 2.1 percent from February. The average marks the twelfth consecutive monthly decline since reaching its peak one year ago. During the past twelve months since March 2022, the index has declined 20.5 percent. The Cereal Price Index averaged 138.6 points in March, down 5.6 percent from February and 18 percent below its one year ago. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 131.8 points in March, down three percent from February and 47.7 percent below its level a year ago. The Dairy Price Index averaged 130.3 points in March, down 1.1 points from February and 10.7 percent lower for the year. The Meat Price Index averaged 113.0 points, up slightly in March, but 5.3 percent lower than a year ago. Finally, the Sugar Price Index averaged 127.0 points in March, up 1.5 percent from February, the second consecutive monthly increase, reaching its highest level since October 2016. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Asks Lawmakers to Fund Export Promotion Programs The Coalition to Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports urges congressional appropriators to continue mandatory funding for Market Access and Foreign Market Development programs. The Coalition also asked the Senate agriculture committee to include a provision that would double the dollars for those programs in the next Farm Bill. In letters sent to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House agriculture appropriations subcommittees, the Coalition asked that the MAP get at least $200 million and FMD receive a minimum of $34.5 million in fiscal 2024. The Coalition also called on House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to include the Expanding Agricultural Exports Act of 2023 in the 2023 farm bill. The legislation would double the annual funding for MAP and FMD over the five years of the new Farm Bill. The Coalition says the outlook for agricultural trade is "uncertain due to continuing supply chain disruptions, surging international competition and the absence of new, near-term trade agreements." The group includes more than 120 agricultural organizations. *********************************************************************************** Academics Predict USMCA Dispute Panel Would Favor U.S. over Mexico Ag economists at The Ohio State University predict a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute settlement panel over biotech corn would rule in favor of the United States. The U.S. Trade Representative's Office recently requested technical consultations with Mexico under the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Chapter of USMCA. The dispute has its origins in a decree issued by Mexico calling for GM corn for human consumption to be phased out by the end of January 2024. Given Mexico is the second-largest export market for U.S. corn totaling $4.792 billion in 2022, the original decree ratcheted up trade tensions between the two countries. Following U.S. pressure, Mexico scrapped the 2024 deadline banning GM corn for animal feed and industrial use on February 13, 2023, while retaining the ban on its use for human consumption. The experts say that “if a panel investigation goes ahead, “our expectation is that it will rule in favor of the United States.” *********************************************************************************** Beginning Farm Operations Tend to be in the South and West Beginning farms tend to be more concentrated in Southern and Western States than in other areas of the United States, according to USDA's Economic Research Service. Data published Monday by ERS shows that in some counties in California and Texas, the proportion of beginning farms is more than one-third of the total farms. As of 2017, there were about 340,000 farms—with almost 900,000 operators—on which all operators were beginning farmers with ten or fewer years of farm management experience. Most beginning farms are small-scale operations, about 67 percent of beginning farms produce less than $10,000 worth of output. Less than two percent of beginning farms achieve an annual production value of more than $1 million. Among farms with at least $10,000 in production, principal operators of beginning farms were 43 years old on average. In contrast, the age of operators of established farms averaged 63 years old. USDA offers numerous resources for beginning farmers. *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Forecast Improves The latest 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, is showing improvement. Spring precipitation, including increased mountain snowpack and late-season plains snow, has provided improved runoff conditions. The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 26.4 million acre-feet, 103 percent of average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. March runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.7 million acre-feet, 57 percent of average. System storage is currently 46.8 million acre-feet, 9.3 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone. Beginning in mid-March, releases from Gavins Point Dam were adjusted to provide flow support for Missouri River navigation. Navigation flow support for the Missouri River is at minimum service for the first half of the 2023 season, which began April 1 at the mouth of the river near St. Louis, Missouri. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Inch Higher, Diesel Lower For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline has increased, up 8.8 cents from a week ago to $3.57 per gallon. The national average is up 13.0 cents from a month ago but 52.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 1.6 cents last week and stands at $4.15 per gallon, 88.9 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “Expect the upward trend to continue through much of the rest of spring.” However, once the transition to summer gasoline is complete, prices may slump in June. Over the last few weeks, the price of West Texas Intermediate crude rallied by over 20 percent from a low of $65 per barrel to back over $80 last week after OPEC+’s surprise decision to piece together a 1.15 million barrel per day production cut, and as the banking crisis has eased.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 11, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets USDA's WASDE report for April is due out at 11 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and any planting anecdotes in the U.S. The market will also pause at 8 a.m., in case USDA has an export sale announcement. Weather A ridge of high pressure continues to dominate most of the U.S. on Tuesday, leading to generally dry and warm conditions. A system moving through the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Prairies is bringing some showers, however. Winds will be a bit breezy in the Plains, but another day of warmth and sunshine should be beneficial for getting out into the fields in a lot of areas, as well as melting the northern snowpack.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 10, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, Warm Weather and Road Warriors OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of April 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. April WASDE: April 11 is the next World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will post his expectations for the report on April 10. We'll have coverage just after 11 a.m. CDT, as quick as those little electrons can get to your computer, satellite unit and mobile devices. You'll see updated commentary on the report through the 11:00 hour. 2. Change in weather pattern: Troughs, and the clashing storms they create, stay away. Milder conditions are in, at least through most of this week. That may help coax some planters and tillage equipment out of the shed, but it also means the beginning of the Big Melt in the Northern Plains. We'll continue to be on flood watch as the week progresses, and as the potential for rain comes back in the following week. 3. Lively livestock markets: The past week saw significant cash sales around the country, with the dollars to keep the sale rings going. We'll continue to track this hot market. 4. Be safe out there: The first rush of spring always brings the chance of roadway conflicts as the nonfarm world remembers what those big pieces of equipment with orange and red triangle signs are all about. The closing rate between 60 mph and 17 mph is, well, faster than you think. Be watchful, no matter which end of that speed scale you're on. 5. Speaking of safety: One of the nastiest days you can have is standing over or next to an anhydrous ammonia connection that fails. If you're a "gasser," remember: Gloves, goggles, rinse water. And doublecheck those hoses before you crack the valve.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 10, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from Easter weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT, in case an export sale is announced. DTN's WASDE preview will be out Monday morning. USDA will have its weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m., followed by the second Crop Progress report of 2023 at 3 p.m. Weather A very small disturbance may bring some showers to the Plains Monday, while a small system moves through the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Prairies. But most of the county will be rather quiet with rising temperatures. Over the deep snowpack in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies, this will likely lead to snowmelt and some areas of flooding.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 7, 2023 |
Ford Keeping AM Radios in Commercial Vehicles A new report says Ford will keep AM radios in certain vehicles. The company plans to exclude AM radio from “most new and updated vehicles we bring to market” but also says commercial vehicles will continue to have AM radios. A Ford Authority report says, “This group of vehicles will likely consist of vehicles that count toward Ford Pro sales – the automaker’s commercial-focused division.” The report also says it’s not, by any means, a given because Ford could ditch the feature in some or all of those vehicles as well. So far, a total of eight automakers say they will remove AM radio from the dashboards of some of their models, mostly in the fast-growing electric vehicle segment. In a series of letters, none of the eight are signaling any second thoughts despite the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s push about the critical role AM plays in delivering public safety information. *********************************************************************************** Asia and Africa are the Future of Trade The best opportunities for increasing agricultural trade in the years ahead will take place in Southeast Asia and Africa. The Hagstrom Report says Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley made that observation during a recent speech before the American Association of Port Authorities. “Southeast Asia is the fastest-growing market for America’s products,” Whitley says. “People are moving from low-income to middle-income consumers who eat more fruits and vegetables and patronize restaurants and high-end grocery stores.” He also says Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore already have a “fixation” with the U.S. brand. Whitley says Africa is “visibly shifting before our eyes.” Africa is going from being development recipients to commercial customers. “We need to be in a business relationship and not a developmental relationship with African countries,” he says. “While African countries have traditional ties with the EU, they also want to break some of those ties.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Yield Contest is Now Open National Sorghum Producers will now begin accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Contest. State and national winners get selected from contestants split into east and west regions for each division, which includes irrigated, dryland no-till, dryland tillage, and one overall winner for food grade. The entry deadline for the contest is November 15. A complete field of 10 or more continuous acres, planted in the sorghum seed variety named on the entry form, will be designated as the contest field. The contestants must harvest and report at least 1.5 contiguous acres. “The competition motivates farmers and seed companies to explore innovative genetics and techniques for enhancing sorghum yields,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “Despite the drought of 2022, we saw excellent top-end yields in the contest from growers nationwide.” To find the entry form, 2023 yield contest rules, and more information, interested sorghum producers can go to sorghumgrowers.com. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Second-Quarter Earnings CHS, Inc., released its second-quarter earnings results of $292.3 million in net income compared to $219 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2022. The second quarter ended on February 28. For the first six months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported net income of $1.1 billion and revenues of $24.1 billion. That compares to net income of $671 million and $21.2 billion in revenues during the first half of fiscal year 2022. The report also says decreased prices for agronomy products and ethanol contributed to lower earnings in the company’s agriculture segment. “Strong global demand for commodities and improved market conditions for refined fuels led to increased earnings for the quarter as well as the first half of the fiscal year,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “The strength of our diversified portfolio offset margin pressures experienced in our ag segment, particularly wholesale and retail agronomy products.” *********************************************************************************** No mRNA Vaccines in U.S. Cattle Social media has been sharing information that mRNA vaccines are getting used in raising the U.S. cattle herd. A National Cattlemen’s Beef Association statement says there are no current mRNA vaccines licensed for use in beef cattle in the United States. “Cattle farmers and ranchers do vaccinate cattle to treat and prevent many diseases,” the statement says, “but presently, none of these vaccines include mRNA technology.” Texas agriculture commissioner Sid Miller says his department has been working towards a fact and science-based assessment of the risks associated with this technology. “Our analysis will include the clinical research and the public policy, economic, and production impact of the different policy prescriptions we may adopt,” Miller says. “It’s a serious issue we are looking into here at TDA.” A January 12 article on the website Truth Press said if Americans consumed meat from a vaccinated animal, the mRNA vaccines then entered their bodies. *********************************************************************************** Hereford Association Growing Young Leaders Twenty-one National Junior Hereford Association members were selected to accompany the NJHA Board of Directors at the second Building on Leadership Development Conference in Texas. The board created the BOLD conferences for college-aged junior Hereford members seeking opportunities to expand their leadership skills. BOLD is geared toward college and career-focused junior members. It provides them with a personalized learning experience focused on improving their leadership, providing career opportunities, and cultivating life-long relationships. “From the moment I got there, I was laughing and having fun with my peers,” said Lauren Jones, a BOLD conference attendee. “But I was also challenged to think of what I want my future to look like and how to achieve it.” BOLD is an annual leadership opportunity and is scheduled for April 4-7, 2024. Junior members ages 14-22 looking to expand their leadership skills are invited to attend the 2023 Faces of Leadership Conference scheduled for July.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 6, 2023 |
Farmers Seek Comprehensive Reform to Federal Milk Pricing The American Farm Bureau Federation told Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday that requests to increase make allowances fall short of fairly supporting dairy farmers. Make allowances are used in part to calculate how much a processor pays for milk. Dairy farmers, on average, lose $6.72 per hundredweight of milk produced, according to USDA data. The loss for dairy farms with less than 50 cows was even greater at $21.58 per hundredweight. Two dairy processor associations requested a federal milk marketing order hearing to increase make allowances. While AFBF is not opposed to updating make allowances, the proposals to USDA do not address the wider need for changes to milk pricing regulations, according to AFBF President Zippy Duvall. In a letter to Vilsack, Duvall says, "The petitions we oppose here threaten to undercut trust between farmers who produce the milk and the processors who turn it into the dairy products we all know and love." *********************************************************************************** Boozman, Thune Lead Effort to Permanently Repeal Death Tax Republican Senators John Boozman, John Thune and Mitch McConnell are leading an effort to permanently repeal the death tax. The Death Tax Repeal Act would permanently repeal the federal estate tax, more commonly known as the death tax. Senator Boozman says, “The Death Tax hangs over too many family agriculture operations and small businesses as a potential destroyer of generations worth of work and investment.” Senator Thune adds, “I will continue to do everything in my power to remove these roadblocks for family businesses and repeal the death tax once and for all.” The legislation also has backing from a majority of Senate Republicans and is supported by more than 150 members of the Family Business Coalition and 111 members of the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, which includes the American Farm Bureau Federation. Senate Majority Leader McConnell concludes, “Washington Democrats need to recognize the economic damage they’ve inflicted and join Republicans in ending this harmful tax.” *********************************************************************************** RFA Calls on Biden Administration to Allow E15 This Summer The Renewable Fuels Association kicked off an advertising campaign this week urging for quick action by the White House to allow summer availability of E15. The campaign comes as the summer driving season is less than two months away, and fuel prices are again rising. The campaign targets ethanol supporters across the Midwest, as well as policymakers and insiders in Washington, D.C. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "Our message to the Biden administration is simple: Unless the White House acts quickly, American drivers will lose access to the lowest-cost, lowest-carbon fuel at the pump on June 1." Cooper pointed out that a Morning Consult poll conducted late last month found strong voter support for year-round E15 sales. 70 percent of poll respondents support increasing the availability of E15 to help lower fuel prices and support energy independence, while 62 percent support recently introduced bipartisan legislation allowing the lower-carbon E15 blend to be sold year-round nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Application Rates of Manure as a Nutrient Source Vary by Crop Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the use of manure as a nutrient varies by type of crop. Between 2013 and 2019, producers of seven major crops in the U.S. who used manure were asked how much manure they applied per acre, allowing ERS to estimate crop nutrient application rates. Corn received the highest application rate of nitrogen from a manure source—92 pounds per acre—followed by cotton, wheat, barley, oats, soybeans, and peanuts. Cotton led phosphorus application at 37 pounds per acre, and corn led potassium application at 59 pounds per acre. Soybeans and peanuts require less nitrogen fertilization, and they were applied with the lowest manure nitrogen application rates. Manure applied to soybeans and peanuts is valued primarily for its phosphorus and potassium. In 2020, manure was applied to about eight percent of the 240.9 million acres planted to seven major U.S. field crops. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Investing $65 Million in Ukraine Seed Production Site Bayer announced a $65 million investment in its corn seed production facility in Ukraine, as part of its commitment to Ukraine. The investment includes a new seed dryer, state-of-the-art agricultural field equipment, storage facilities and the construction of two bomb shelters to ensure safety. Matthias Berninger of Bayer says, “Bayer has been active in Ukraine for many years and is committed to the country, its people and farming communities.” Before the war, the company made a significant investment to establish corn seed production through a network of skilled Ukrainian farmers and the greenfield seed processing site. The plant was inaugurated in 2018 and operates with around 100 on-site employees and about 250 to 300 seasonal workers. Bayer, with its plant, is one of the biggest investors in the region. This included the donation of more than 40,000 bags of corn and vegetable seeds as well as healthcare product donations. *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding to Support Food Security in Alaska, Hawaii, US Territories The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced $7.6 million in funding to improve food security in Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. Territories. The funding seeks to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food through small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations in food-insecure communities. USDA announced the funding as part of its Micro-Grants for Food Security Program. This year, the program received an additional $3 million through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. The program is authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill and awards grants to eligible states and territories through a non-competitive application process. USDA’s Jenny Lester Moffitt says, “Micro-Grants provide funding to ensure communities in these areas have sustained access to quality, locally grown food.” States and territories that receive funding will grant competitive subawards to individuals, Tribal nations, nonprofit organizations engaged in increasing food security, federally funded educational facilities, or local governments.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 6, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly report of export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:30 a.m., the Department of Energy will have its weekly report on natural gas storage. U.S. futures markets will be closed Friday, but the Labor Department will report on nonfarm payrolls and the U.S. unemployment rate for March at 7:30 a.m. Weather A frontal boundary will continue periods of showers and thunderstorms for parts of the South and Southeast Thursday. Some of the rains may be heavy and cause some flooding. It will be cooler behind that front across a lot of the country, but the skies will be quieter.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 5, 2023 |
Commodity Prices, Interest Rates, Prompt Ag Economy Barometer Decline Farmer sentiment weakened again in March as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell eight points to a reading of 117. Both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations declined eight points in March, leaving the Current Conditions Index at 126 and the Future Expectations Index at 113. Weaker prices for key commodities, including wheat, corn, and soybeans, from mid-February through mid-March were a key factor behind this month's weaker sentiment reading. This month's survey was conducted from March 13-17, 2023, which coincided with the demise of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. Although the March survey did not include any questions directly related to the bank closures, it did reveal that rising interest rates have become a bigger concern among farmers. Although producers still cite high input costs as their top concern, they are becoming more worried about rising interest rates and the impact those higher rates will have on their operations. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers to EPA: Maintaining Consumer Access to E15 Increases Fuel Supply The National Corn Growers Association president and 18 state groups call on the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure uninterrupted access to E15 through the summer. In a letter to the EPA Tuesday, the industry leaders say, "Fuel market conditions that warranted EPA's actions last summer are expected to continue this summer." Last year, the EPA provided a waiver to allow summertime sales of E15. NCGA points out that E15 has been sold year-round for the past four years, but outdated regulatory barriers continue to hinder permanent full-market access to E15. Retailers have increased availability of E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88, to offer consumers choice and lower fuel costs, as well as increase the fuel supply. The corn grower leaders pointed to warning signs, such as OPEC's announcement of a 1.16 million barrels per day output reduction beginning in May, as reason the Biden administration should do everything possible to increase the domestic fuel supply to help keep prices down. *********************************************************************************** Study: UK Ag Trade Depends Heavily on Imports New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the United Kingdom is the world’s fifth-largest importer of agricultural products. The U.K. imported $78.2 billion in agricultural and related goods in 2021 and exported $31.9 billion, less than half the value of imports. Historically, the European Union has been the largest trading partner with the U.K., but the U.K.’s formal departure from the European single market, known as “Brexit,” will likely impact the UK’s trade dynamics as the country seeks to diversify trading partners. An estimated two-thirds of agricultural goods imported by the U.K. in 2021 were high-value, consumer-oriented products. The United States exported about $1.12 million in alcoholic beverages to the U.K. in 2021. Agreements between the U.K. and the United States in 2022 to allow for the export of British beef and lamb to the United States for the first time since the 1990s are expected to generate $50 million in trade over the next five years. *********************************************************************************** Grassley Joins Bill to Crack Down on Xylazine Republican Senator Chuck Grassley joined Democrats Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and Maggie Hassan to introduce the Combating Illicit Xylazine (zy-la-zeen) Act last week. Grassley of Iowa sits on the Senate Ag Committee and joins the effort to crack down on the highly dangerous sedative causing fatal overdoses nationwide. Xylazine is an easily accessible veterinary tranquilizer that is being used as a low-cost cutting agent. The Drug Enforcement Agency recently reported 23 percent of fentanyl powder contained it in 2022. The legislation would classify xylazine illicit use under Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act and enable the DEA to track its manufacturing to ensure it is not diverted to the illicit market. However, lawmakers say the bill will also protect access for veterinarians, farmers, cattlemen, and ranchers by protecting the veterinary medicine use of xylazine. The American Veterinary Medical Association "fully supports" the effort, adding. "it strikes the right balance of protecting our communities while preserving veterinary access to this critically important animal drug." *********************************************************************************** USDA: Look for Invasive Pests This Month The Department of Agriculture Tuesday declared April as 2023 Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month. The outreach effort is dedicated to highlighting the impact of invasive plant pests and diseases on plants nationwide. The campaign also seeks to inform Americans on how they can help reduce the spread of invasive plant pests. Each year, invasive insects and plant diseases cause an estimated $40 billion in damages to plants, including key agricultural crops. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “This spring, familiarize yourself with the invasive pest quarantines in your area and do your part to avoid inadvertently moving invasive insects and plant diseases to new areas.” Nonnative plant pests can hitchhike in untreated firewood, attach themselves to cars, boats, and other outdoor surfaces—or take a ride in the mail. They can travel to new areas on agricultural materials such as soil, seeds, homegrown produce, and plants. *********************************************************************************** FMC Collaboration Seeks Improved Farm Safety in Ukraine FMC Corporation and The HALO Trust this week announced a new collaboration to improve farm safety in Ukraine. Under its Cultivating Freedom campaign, FMC will donate three percent of its 2023 sales revenue in Ukraine to significantly expand The HALO Trust's demining efforts. With the funding, The HALO Trust will be able to increase its capacity to remove landmines from Ukrainian farms. FMC president and CEO Mark Douglas says, "This project not only ensures Ukrainian farmers can safely return to their fields for planting and harvest, but it also contributes to improving food security around the globe." James Cowan, CEO of The HALO Trust CEO James Cowan adds the investment "will allow us to invest in the people, equipment and new technology needed for the enormous task of making Ukraine safe from landmines, bombs and shells." The collaboration between FMC and The HALO Trust will start this month in several communities across Ukraine.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 5, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department's will post the trade deficit for February at 7:30 a.m., including export data USDA will make available later Wednesday morning. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts with warmer temperatures expected in the northern U.S. Plains later this week. Weather A very strong storm system continues to drop snow in the Northern Plains, though that will be diminishing throughout the day. Strong winds in the region will continue blowing snow and blizzard conditions, even after the snow ends. Areas of scattered thunderstorms are found along a cold front stretching from Wisconsin to Texas early this morning, which will continue eastward throughout Wednesday day and Wednesday night. Storms will be capable of all hazards today, with the Great Lakes areas most at risk.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 4, 2023 |
Study Shows Red Meat Exports Important to Corn and Soybean Industries A new study shows a record value of beef and pork exports brought significant returns to America’s corn and soybean industries in 2022. The independent study done by World Perspectives and commissioned by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says America’s beef and pork exports contributed to an estimated total economic impact of 15 percent per bushel of corn and 13 percent per bushel for soybeans. “For every bushel of corn that we marketed in 2022, a little over $1 was attributed to red meat exports, and with soybeans, pork exports contributed $1.94 per bushel,” says USMEF Chair Dean Meyer. “Pork and beef exports bring critical support to our bottom lines.” Beef and pork exports accounted for 503.4 million bushels of U.S. corn usage, which equates to a market value of $3.4 billion. Pork exports account for 89.7 million bushels of U.S. soybean usage, which equated to a market value of $1.33 billion. *********************************************************************************** Thune Reintroduces Repeal of the “Death Tax” Senator John Thune (R-SD) and 40 colleagues reintroduced legislation to permanently repeal the federal estate tax. The “Death Tax Repeal Act” would end a tax that hits family-run farms, ranches, and businesses hard after the owner’s death. “Agriculture is the backbone of the rural American economy,” Thune says. “Family-owned farms and ranches often bear the brunt of this tax, which makes it difficult and costly to pass these businesses down to future generations.” Todd Wilkinson, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, says no cattle producers should ever be forced to sell their family’s farm or ranch to pay a tax bill due to the death of a family member. “Repealing the death tax is a commonsense way to keep the farm or ranch in the family,” Wilkinson says. “As a land-based, capital-intensive industry, most cattle families are asset rich and cash poor, with few options to pay tax liabilities.” *********************************************************************************** Dairy Farm Innovations Yield Big Environmental Benefits From parlor to pasture, many advances in dairy farm management are helping drive up dairy farm efficiency in North America, and that helps drive down environmental impact. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers issued a report titled “Environmental Benefits of Modern Dairy, Hay, and Forage Production Technologies.” The report points out several statistics that help quantify the environmental impact of modern dairy practices in North America. As milk yield increased 19 percent over the past 15 years, feed use dropped 15 percent. Land use also dropped 26 percent, greenhouse gas emissions decreased 17 percent, and water use dropped 10 percent. “Over the past 15 years, the industry has gained a better understanding of how to go about managing a dairy animal,” says Chad Huyser (Heiser), president of Lely (LAY-lee) North America. Technology is also helping dairy farmers better understand how to manage some of the cost drivers around dairy more efficiently. *********************************************************************************** Contrasting Soybean Harvests in South America South American countries typically account for almost 55 percent of the world’s soybean supply. A University of Illinois Farmdoc Daily report says South America’s top soybean producers are experiencing varying harvest expectations this crop season. Brazil looks to be on the verge of breaking a record in soybean production. However, Argentina will have its worst harvest in more than 20 years. The contrast in harvest predictions is due to La Niña. Overall, South America’s soybean production is still expected to bypass the previous year, but to a smaller extent than first thought. The consequences of a larger soybean crop in South America, combined with the potential for a larger U.S. soybean crop this fall, could push prices lower. The effects of La Niña this season were more concentrated in southern South America, affecting extreme southern Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Paraguay, the world’s fourth-largest soybean exporter, was spared from the drought’s effects. *********************************************************************************** EPA Comments on National Farmworker Awareness Week Environmental Protection Agency Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe spoke out in celebration of National Farmworker Awareness Week. “During National Farmworker Awareness Week, we applaud more than two million unsung heroes who do the toughest work to help put food on our tables in the United States,” McCabe says. “Farmworkers often work through day and night in the face of challenges like extreme heat to promote healthy and secure food supplies.” McCabe also says she’s seen that firsthand in her home state of Indiana. This week, the EPA is highlighting these unsung heroes and their contributions to the nation. EPA’s mission is to protect human health and the environment, and that includes how its policies and programs support farmworkers and their families across the country. “As an agency, we are committed to continuing to work closely with farmworkers and the broader agricultural community to confront environmental issues and other challenges,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Merger is Complete Farm Credit Mid-America and Farm Credit Midsouth officially merged on April 1 to become Farm Credit Mid-America. The new association now serves more than 137,000 customers. Those customers live in 391 counties across Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, and Tennessee. “This is an exciting time for Farm Credit Mid-America as we bring our customer-owners and team members together to form an even stronger cooperative,” says Andrew Wilson, Chair of Farm Credit Mid-America’s Board of Directors. “Together, we are fulfilling our purpose to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture by serving their needs with excellence.” Dan Wagner continues to serve as Farm Credit Mid-America’s President and CEO. “With a combined net income of $477 million and $38 billion in total assets owned and managed, we are well-positioned to capitalize on our customers’ opportunities, and we are committed to agriculture and rural communities when challenging times arise,” Wagner says.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 4, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. factory orders in February will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday and is the only significant report of the day. Traders will check the latest forecast and watch for a possible export sales announcement at 8 a.m. Another winter storm is expected to dump more snow across the Northern Plains Tuesday and Wednesday. Weather A large, strong system will move into the Plains on Tuesday. It has already started a band of heavy snow across South Dakota that will expand through the Northern Plains throughout the day. Strong winds will build across the middle of the country, and where they coincide with the snow will create blizzard conditions. Farther south, it will mean more blowing dust and poor conditions for struggling winter wheat in the drought. Increasing moisture in the middle of the country will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms in several waves, all of which may become severe. A zone from Wisconsin to northeast Texas is in the main risk area for today, which includes large hail, damaging winds, and strong tornadoes.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 3, 2023 |
Farmers Planting More Corn and Soybean Acres in 2023 USDA released its Prospective Plantings report showing producers are planting more corn and soybean acres than last year. Farmers intend to plant 92 million acres of corn, up four percent from last year. Soybean growers intend to plant 87.5 million acres this year, up slightly from last year. The all-wheat planted area is estimated at 49.9 million acres, up nine percent from 2022. Winter wheat planted estimates are 37.5 million acres, 13 percent higher than in 2022. Spring wheat acres are expected to reach 11.3 million, 18 percent below last year. All-cotton planted acres are expected to total 11.3 million acres, 18 percent lower than in 2022. USDA also released the Quarterly Grain Stocks report. Corn stocks totaled 7.4 billion bushels, five percent lower than March 2022. Soybeans stored totaled 1.69 billion bushels, 13 percent lower than last year. All-wheat storage totaled 946 million bushels, eight percent lower than March 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Margin Protection for Corn and Soybean Growers USDA announced it is expanding the Margin Protection insurance plan. The agency will add more than 1,000 counties to the insurance option that provides coverage against an unexpected decrease in operating margins for corn and soybean farmers. This expansion comes from growing interest among producers and will be available by June 30. Interested producers will need to purchase their coverage by September 30 to be eligible for the 2024 crop year. “Increasing the availability of a program is sometimes the best way we can improve upon an effective program and serve our farmers with more risk management resources,” says Marcia Bunger, administrator of the Risk Management Agency. Margin Protection protects against decreases in margin caused by reduced county yields, reduced commodity prices, increased prices of certain inputs, or any combination of these issues. “This expansion will provide a viable insurance option for so many more farmers across the country,” Bunger adds. *********************************************************************************** Next Generation Fuels Act Reintroduced in the House The Next Generation Fuels Act has been officially reintroduced in the House of Representatives. Several of America’s top agricultural organizations endorsed the move, saying it would help address the country’s most pressing energy issues through a transition to cleaner fuels and vehicles. “The Act would clean up the nation’s fuel supply and transition new vehicles to use cleaner, more efficient fuels that would also lower costs for drivers,” says Tom Haag (Hayg), president of the National Corn Growers Association. “By establishing a clean, high-octane standard for fuel and requiring that sources of additional octane result in at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions, automakers could improve fuel efficiency through advanced engines.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says there’s no time to waste. “America’s farmers and ranchers are ready to be part of the global climate solution,” Larew says. “This will benefit farmers, consumers, and the planet.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Ethanol Gets Full Access to Japan Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry released its final proposed rule for partial amendment of the “Act on Sophisticated Methods of Energy Supply” structures last week. The act, in place through 2028, allows the country to further contribute to its climate targets through the consumption of lower-carbon ethanol. For the first time, ethanol will successfully access 100 percent of the biofuel market in Japan. Ryan LeGrand of the U.S. Grains Council, Emily Skor of Growth Energy, and Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association issued a joint statement applauding the news. “The U.S. ethanol community thanks the Japanese government for recognizing the role ethanol can play in the global effort to address climate change at the same time it takes steps to decarbonize its transportation sector,” the statement says. “Countries around the world are recognizing that biofuels like ethanol are a simple and effective solution to meeting our climate goals.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA, PLC Denounce New Public Land Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council have serious concerns about a new rule from the Bureau of Land Management. The proposed rule is titled “Strengthening the Stewardship of America’s Public Lands” and would completely upend BLM’s multiple-use mandate and jeopardizes the agency’s ability to be a good partner to the ranchers who manage millions of acres across the West. “Ranchers have a reasonable expectation of transparency and predictability when dealing with the Bureau, and this proposed rule falls short on both counts,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the PLC. “The covert manner in which the rule was developed and announced has left permittees feeling like the rule is either a capitulation to the extremist environmental groups who want to eradicate grazing from the public landscape or a concerted effort to develop rules that preclude ranchers’ input.” She also says BLM will face serious questions needing answers. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up Slightly As of March 1, U.S. farms had 72.9 million hogs and pigs. That number is up slightly from March 2022 but down two percent from December 1, 2022. The Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service shows that of the 72.9 million hogs and pigs, 66.7 million were market hogs, while 6.13 million were kept for breeding. Between December 2022 and February, 32.1 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, up slightly from the same period one year earlier. From December through February, producers weaned an average of 11 pigs per litter. Producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between March and May 2023, and 2.97 million sows farrow between June and August 2023. Iowa hog producers had the largest inventory at 23.4 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest herd at 8.9 million head. North Carolina was third in the country at eight million head.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 3, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Start of Crop Progress Reports, Recovery From Spring Storms OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of April 2. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Spring storms are no April Fools: Once again, as we look forward into the coming week, we have severe weather during the weekend. DTN weather experts forecasted continued severe storms across the Midwest and Tennessee Valleys as moisture pours in from the Gulf of Mexico, possibly hitting an even wider area than the killer storms of March 24-26. So, the first week of April will see additional recovery efforts from weekend storms. 2. Checking on wheat conditions: We continue to hear reports of failed wheat fields across Kansas and Oklahoma. As the calendar turns to April we have been talking to farmers and agronomists to learn more. 3. Mixed market signals: We'll continue to watch market reaction to the March 31 Quarterly Grain and spring Prospective Plantings reports, which gave a mixed bag of signals for corn and soybeans. Look to see if beans keep their post-report momentum with continued updates in the Markets sections of DTN digital platforms throughout the week and watch our daily market videos on weekday afternoons. 4. Start of crop progress: The weekly USDA Crop Progress reports begin this week, and you'll see our update and take on that Monday afternoon, and on subsequent Mondays. They've become an anticipated weekly feature through the crop season. 5.Other reports of note: Additional reports analysts will watch during the week include: Monday -- USDA's weekly grain export inspections, and foreign manufacturing indices; Wednesday -- U.S. trade deficit and DOE weekly energy inventories; Thursday -- USDA weekly export sales and U.S. jobless claims; Friday -- U.S. nonfarm payrolls and U.S. unemployment rate.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 3, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts and pause for a possible export sale at 8 a.m. CDT. Reports of manufacturing indices from several countries will be coming in overnight, joined by a U.S. report for March at 9 a.m. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due at 10 a.m., followed by the first weekly Crop Progress report of 2023 at 3 p.m. Weather After a weekend that saw heavy snow, blizzard conditions, and widespread severe weather, yet another storm system brewing in the West will do the same early this week. Snow will be building across Wyoming and into South Dakota throughout the day, but really increase across the Northern Plains Monday night and Tuesday. Strong winds are developing in the Central and Southern Plains yet again with potential for more blowing dust and an increased risk for wildfires, especially on Tuesday. Some other batches of rain and thunderstorms will move through the Midwest and Southeast, the latter of which could be severe again. More severe storms are forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday for the middle of the country out of the system.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 31, 2023 |
Senate Passes Resolution Overturning Biden Administration’s WOTUS Rule The Senate passed the Congressional Review Act joint resolution of disapproval that overturns the Biden Administration’s Waters of the United States Rule by a 53-43 vote. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (CAP-ih-toe) (R-W.VA.), ranking member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced the resolution in February. The administration introduced a new rule in December 2022 that repealed the Navigable Waters Protection Rule and changed the definition of WOTUS in a way that will significantly expand regulatory authority. “By voting to overturn the president’s waters rule, we are sending a clear, bipartisan message that Congress, even a divided one, will defend working Americans in the face of executive overreach,” Capito says. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association commended the Senate for passing the resolution. “The president now has a choice: sign the resolution and pull back the rule or turn his back on rural America,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Poll Shows Voters Want Year-Round E15 A new poll shows overwhelming support among voters for year-round access to E15 across the country. With retail gas prices still high, almost 70 percent of poll respondents support increasing the availability of E15 to help lower fuel prices and support energy independence. Only 13 percent of those surveyed said they didn’t support expanded E15 availability. Meanwhile, 62 percent support recently introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow the lower-carbon E15 blend to be sold year-round nationwide. “We’re pleased but not surprised,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “Drivers continue to embrace an American-made fuel that’s more affordable and lower in carbon emissions.” Last summer, E15 sold for 20 to 30 cents a gallon cheaper than regular gasoline. Those savings will disappear on June 1 unless Washington takes action. “They need to act quickly to make sure lower-cost E15 is available through the summer driving season,” Cooper adds. *********************************************************************************** Groups Want Tighter Checkoff Rules Over 130 agricultural and food groups are asking the House and Senate Ag Committees for stricter rules that govern checkoff programs. The organizations wrote committee leaders in both chambers to support the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. The groups say the legislation would restore what they call a “minimum level” of oversight. “Several of the mandatory checkoff programs and associated boards have well-documented histories of waste, conflicts of interest, misuse of funding, anti-competitive behavior, and other issues,” the letter says. “For these reasons, many farmers and ranchers across the country have grown disillusioned with the effectiveness of many of these checkoff programs as they operate today.” The legislation would prohibit checkoff programs from contracting with any organization that lobbies on agricultural policy, prohibit employees and agents of the checkoff boards from engaging in activities that may involve a conflict of interest, require publishing of checkoff financial information, and make other changes. *********************************************************************************** Iowa State Releases the 2023 Custom Farming Rates Report Many farmers in rural America hire some custom machine work in their farm business or perform custom work for others. Others may rent machinery or perform other services. To help producers and custom operators examine the current market, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach publishes the Iowa Farm Custom Rate Survey. Most custom farming rates saw an increase of 10-15 percent. Custom planting ranges from $12.50 to $45 per acre, depending on the type of planter and setup. Combining corn showed an average of $41.30 per acre, and combining soybeans averaged $39.90 an acre, an increase of 12.4 percent and 10.7 percent, respectively. ISU Extension says the information in the survey is meant to be a starting point for farmers and agribusinesses to engage in conversations and negotiations. It’s not meant to set the rate for a particular practice or operator. The survey assumed diesel prices would be around $3.39 a gallon. *********************************************************************************** Train Carrying Ethanol Derails in Minnesota A freight train carrying ethanol and corn syrup derailed in a fiery crash near a small Minnesota town in the early hours of Thursday morning. The incident was reported to law enforcement and emergency responders at 1 a.m. and forced residents to evacuate the area. A BNSF Railway train had multiple tankers derail and catch fire on the western edge of Raymond, a small southwestern Minnesota town of fewer than 800 people. The local county sheriff’s office says the train was carrying a “form of ethanol” and a “corn syrup liquid.” BNSF, one of the largest freight railroad networks in North America, is investigating the cause of the incident, and so far, there are no reported casualties, according to ABC News. “The main track is blocked in that area, and an estimated time for reopening the line isn’t available yet,” says spokesperson Lena Kent. “We’re working closely with local first responders.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Partners with Google to Grow Awareness, Demand The United Sorghum Checkoff Program has announced a strategic partnership with Google to increase sorghum consumer awareness through innovative marketing strategies. USCP is a producer-funded national organization dedicated to improving the sorghum industry and representing sorghum farmers across the U.S. The program will leverage Google’s expertise in digital marketing to create consumer awareness campaigns that promote the sustainability and health benefits of sorghum and its versatility as a food ingredient. USCP recently developed and launched a new campaign for this partnership titled “Sorghum. Food’s Best Kept Secret” to showcase and offer a new whole-grain option for consumers. The campaign’s ads can be viewed on the Sorghum Checkoff’s YouTube channel, “Sorghum. Nature’s Super Grain,” and are powered by Google Ads, leveraging Google’s expertise in digital marketing. “Our partnership with Google will allow us to take our sorghum consumer awareness campaigns to the next level,” says USCP Director of Communications Clint White.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 31, 2023 |
Friday Market Watch Markets Reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. USDA's Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports are set for 11 a.m., followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Traders will monitor the latest weather forecasts and watch for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather A strong storm system in the Plains will continue east through the Midwest on Friday. Widespread precipitation is developing with this storm, especially across the Midwest early Friday morning. The cold front racing between the Rockies and Appalachians will produce a line of very strong and severe thunderstorms by midday across the middle of the country. A widespread severe weather event is expected from this activity across the middle of the country. A band of heavy snow is also found in South Dakota and Nebraska that will be continuing eastward through the Upper Midwest for Friday and Friday night. Strong winds with the system will create some damage, and in the southwest it will be another day of blowing dust in the drought. Where it coincides with the heavy snow across the north, some blizzard conditions will be possible.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 30, 2023 |
Agriculture Takes the Spotlight on Capitol Discussions on agriculture ran rampant through the halls of Capitol Hill this week, with several high-profile Cabinet officials meetings with legislators. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack fielded questions from Senate and House agriculture and appropriations committees on issues ranging from nutrition assistance to disaster aid, rural broadband funding, the Environmental Protection Agency's pesticide regulation and foreign ownership of U.S. farmland. Just this morning, reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA) kicked off with a hearing in the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, with the subcommittee chair calling for the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) to “modernize its review process, so sponsors can continue to bring safe and effective animal drugs to the market” and confirmed the committee’s commitment to reauthorizing these critical user fee programs before the Sept. 30 expiration date. In other news, we finally received word on the administration’s trade agenda, or lack thereof, late last week when U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before both the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees. Tai told the committee that lawmakers who have urged her office to return to negotiating traditional free trade agreements, “Needed to wake up to the realities of the new economic order,” and that “we live in a very different world” where “we can't keep doing things the same way.” In addition, she noted the administration would continue pressing Mexico on its biotech corn ban and would not “let this go on indefinitely.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 30, 2023 |
University of Missouri Releases 2023 Market Outlook The University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute Wednesday released its 2023 U.S. Agricultural Markets Outlook. The report summarizes baseline projections for agricultural and biofuel markets prepared using market information available in January 2023. The report finds that if weather conditions allow crop yields to return to trend-line levels in 2023, prices for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton and many other crops will likely fall. Higher input costs contributed to a sharp increase in farm production expenses in 2022. A smaller increase is projected in 2023, and lower prices for some inputs will reduce production costs in 2024 and 2025. In 2023, most projected livestock sector prices will fall as supplies rebound and demand growth slows. The one major exception is cattle, where drought and other factors limit the number of animals available for slaughter. Finally, net farm income reached a record level in nominal terms in 2022. The report projects net incomes to decline in 2023 and 2024 as receipts and payments fall. *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Strong Public Support for Farm Bill Passage Almost three-quarters of Americans say that not reauthorizing the farm bill in 2023 would have a significant impact on the country. The response comes from a new American Farm Bureau Federation poll that explores the public's awareness of the farm bill. The poll, conducted by Morning Consult, showed more than half of respondents said they would be more likely to support their member of Congress if they voted to reauthorize the farm bill. Nearly 70 percent of respondents also identified two areas of the farm bill as top priorities for government funding: risk management programs that serve as a safety net for farmers and nutrition programs that serve as a safety net for families facing hunger. A majority of adults agree that nutrition programs, 68 percent, and risk management, 67 percent, should be top priorities for government funding in the farm bill. Further, the survey found 89 percent of adults trust farmers. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Welcome Vilsack Support of PASS Act Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack this week expressed support for their Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security, or PASS Act. The legislation would ensure USDA is fully involved in reviewing foreign acquisition of American agricultural land and companies, specifically targeting China. Vilsack responded to Representative Rick Crawford's question during a House Agriculture Committee hearing regarding the role of a USDA Secretary on the Committee of Foreign Investment in the United States. Vilsack says, “Being a permanent member would allow us to educate the other members of CFIUS in the United States what to look for and what to be sensitive to when it comes to agriculture and agricultural production.” Crawford, an Arkansas Republican, responded, “It’s time to be proactive in addressing these threats to our food supply and to our producers.” Representative Elise Stefanik, a New Yor Republican, adds the legislation "takes critical steps to ensure we do not concede any ownership of our food supply to those actively working against our security interests." *********************************************************************************** FBN Releases Spring Planting Intentions Report Farmers Business Network this week released its 2023 Planting Intentions Report. The survey, according to FBN, is one of the most accurate in recent years, released ahead of USDA’s Prospective Plantings report Friday. The report found U.S. corn acreage is projected to increase 3.9 million acres to 92.5 million acres in 2023, a 4.45 percent. Meanwhile, U.S. soybean acreage is expected to be at 84.5 million for 2023, 3.4 percent or three million acres lower than last year. U.S. farms are expected to plant 11 million acres of spring wheat in 2023, up only slightly from last year's total. FBN Chief Economist Kevin McNew says, “This report helps decipher how the complex global geopolitical factors, weather conditions, and market demand are shaping farmer decisions for the year ahead.” During March 2023, an electronic survey was distributed to U.S. FBN members. The FBN survey responses accounted for 4.7 million acres of principal crops across the United States. *********************************************************************************** CFTC Charges Chinese National with Fraudulent Scheme to Trade Against Employer The Commodity Futures Trading Commission this week filed charges against a Chinese national, in the Northern District of Illinois Court. CFTC charged Dichao Xie (De-chow Sheah) with a fraudulent scheme in which he misused knowledge of his employer’s trading in feeder cattle futures and options to trade for his own benefit in breach of a duty to his employer. Xie’s trades also constituted illegal fictitious and noncompetitive trades under the Commodity Exchange and CFTC regulations, according to the complaint. The complaint seeks, among other relief, civil monetary penalties, return of any ill-gotten gains, restitution, and permanent trading and registration bans. The complaint alleges that from approximately December 2021 to April 2022, Xie engaged in a fraudulent scheme to misappropriate material, non-public information from his employer in breach of a duty to that employer. Xie misused that information to enter into trades of feeder cattle futures and options fraudulently and deceptively for his personal benefit. *********************************************************************************** Economic Research Service: Georgia Leads U.S. Production of Peanuts New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds Georgia leads U.S. production of peanuts, outpacing all other states combined. Peanuts are grown mainly in the South, where the climate is warmer and growing seasons are longer than in northern zones. Most U.S. peanut production comes from six States: Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. USDA data finds the U.S. peanut crop in 2022 was estimated at 5.57 billion pounds. Accounting for more than 50 percent of all U.S. peanut production, Georgia produced the most peanuts of any state, with a 2022 peanut crop estimated at 2.9 billion pounds. Alabama’s peanut harvest, at 559 million pounds, was a distant second to Georgia, followed closely by Florida with 554 million pounds. The 2022 U.S. peanut crop was nearly 13 percent smaller than in 2021 because of lower acreage and yields. Smaller crops were estimated in all states except North Carolina, where production increased three percent from 2021.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 30, 2023 |
Senators Roll Back EPA WOTUS Rule, Though Veto is Expected OMAHA (DTN) -- Republicans in Congress succeeded in passing a bill through the Democratic-led Senate on a 53-43 vote Wednesday to overturn the controversial waters of the U.S. rule under the Clean Water Act, sending the bill to President Joe Biden, who is expected to veto the measure. The resolution of disapproval matched a bill passed by the House on a 227-198 vote earlier this month. Agricultural groups have been among some of the most ardent critics of the latest attempt to define waters of the U.S. in a federal rule. Groups maintain the new rule is overly broad and could lead to federal regulation of ditches, ephemeral streams and low spots on farmland. Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, called on Biden to follow Congress and rescind the rule. "Farmers and ranchers are committed to protecting the land and water they rely on to grow food for America's families," Duvall said. "Unfortunately, the 2023 WOTUS threatens the progress made to responsibly manage natural resources. We urge President Biden to recognize the concerns from members of both parties and rescind this troubled rule." The White House has said the president will veto the resolution, which would mark his second veto in the past month. Still, a veto on the waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule would come essentially while the U.S. Supreme Court has a pending case, Sackett v EPA, that also likely will go a long way in determining whether the latest EPA rule will need to be rewritten. IMPACT ON FARMERS, RANCHERS Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., lashed out at the rule, which he said would affect farmers, ranchers and infrastructure projects. He also pointed to the bipartisan opposition to the rule. "America's farmers and ranchers have tough enough jobs without Washington Democrats inventing new problems," McConnell said. "But yet again, unelected bureaucrats at the EPA are trying to dump massive new regulations onto the heads of the small businesses that feed and fuel our economy. The Biden administration's latest version of the Waters of the United States is not some commonsense conservation measure. It's a radical power grab that would give federal bureaucrats sweeping control over nearly every piece of land that touches a pothole, ditch, or puddle." McConnell also pointed to the pending Supreme Court case. "If the president vetoes it, Americans will need to hope the Supreme Court makes it clear that these EPA bureaucrats are way outside the authority that Congress actually provided in the Clean Water Act." LONG-STANDING BATTLE The Sackett case involves a long-standing battle between an Idaho couple and EPA over whether the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals followed the proper legal tests for determining whether wetlands qualify as waters of the U.S. The case was argued in October, and a ruling will come sometime this spring. The outcome of the Sackett case will more than likely lead federal courts to either uphold or reject the new WOTUS rule based on the language in the ruling. The bill passed the Senate with the support of every Republican senator along with four Democrats -- Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Catherine Cortez Mastro and Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Jon Tester of Montana, as well as Sen. Krysten Sinema, I-Ariz. As it is, the latest version of the WOTUS rule is on hold due to court injunctions in Texas and Idaho. Another 24 other states have asked a federal court for a similar injunction. EPA ADMINISTRATOR CRITICIZED EPA Administrator Michael Regan was criticized Tuesday in a House Appropriations Subcommittee hearing about the latest Clean Water Act rewrite. Regan told the subcommittee he doesn't believe EPA expanded federal authority over waters in the new rule. He said the agency believes the new rule "narrowed" the test put forward by the Supreme Court on making Clean Water Act determinations, emphasizing that USDA also supports the rule. Regan, when asked why EPA drafted the new rule before the Supreme Court ruling on the Sackett case, said the agency moved forward because the last rule from the Trump administration also had been rejected by federal courts. "There are also some aspects of this rule that the Sackett case won't touch," Regan said. He added, "And so, what we decided to do was move forward, try to codify a number of exemptions that were requested of us by the agricultural community. And I obviously respect the Supreme Court's position. I will respect the Supreme Court's ruling. What we have now is we can adjust it to what the Supreme Court rules this summer. We will adjust this rule, and we will move forward in a much more expeditious way than waiting to June and then start a two- to three-year rulemaking process. So, I think we are ahead of the curve in terms of having the framework for moving forward."
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 30, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and updates of second-quarter U.S. GDP and the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's March 1 hog and inventory report at 2 p.m. Weather A strong storm system that has been building in the West the last couple of days is moving into the Plains on Thursday. Strong winds will be the first noticeable change to the region while scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop later in the day across the Plains and into the Midwest. A band of moderate to heavy snow will develop overnight across southeast Montana, northeast Wyoming and South Dakota and continue eastward for Friday. More impacts will be felt on Friday across the eastern half of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 29, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will check the latest weather forecasts and wait to see if USDA has an export sale announcement at 8 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production is due out at 9:30 a.m. Weather A storm system in the West will continue to slowly move through the region on Wednesday with widespread precipitation and wind hazards. It will be a rather quiet day east of the Rockies, with just some isolated showers across the South and a little snow in the Midwest behind a cold front. Temperatures across the north in particular continue to be quite cold for this time of year, limiting snow melt on a large snowpack.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 28, 2023 |
Biden Asked to Intervene in West Coast Port Labor Talks A large coalition of agriculture and business groups asked President Joe Biden to intervene in the west coast port labor negotiations. In a letter signed by the groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, they say, “It is imperative that the administration work with the parties to quickly reach a new agreement and ensure there is no disruption to port operations." The coalition previously voiced concerns when the labor contract expired in July last year. Negotiations have been ongoing for over ten months, with little to no progress towards a new long-term agreement, according to the letter. The letter further states, “the only way to resolve these issues is for the parties to remain at the bargaining table and actually negotiate.” The effort is to encourage the administration to provide any and all support to the parties in their negotiations to reach a final agreement between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Calls for Continued Ban on Paraguayan Beef Imports The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is calling on Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to continue blocking Paraguay from importing beef to the United States. The effort is in response to the Department of Agriculture releasing a proposed rule that would grant access to Paraguayan beef imports. NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus says, “Paraguay has a history of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, and we cannot jeopardize the safety of U.S. consumers and the health of our U.S. cattle herd.” NCBA says the data used to inform the proposal by USDA is nine years old from site visits that occurred in 2008 and 2014. Bacus says the United States has the highest animal health and food safety standards in the world “because we rely on the most up-to-date information and the highest science-based standards.” NCBA adds USDA should not proceed with the application until a thorough review can be conducted with current information that demonstrates Paraguay’s equivalence in animal health. *********************************************************************************** 2022/23 U.S. Sorghum Crop: Highest Quality The U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/23 Sorghum Quality Report for the fourth year in a row, found U.S. sorghum was, on average, graded above the necessary requirements for U.S. No. 1 certification. Released last week, the report provides international customers and other interested parties accurate, unbiased information about the 2022/23 U.S. sorghum crop. USGC Chairman Josh Miller says, “We hope this year’s report helps give our valued trade partners even more confidence in the continued reliability and quality of U.S. sorghum.” A total of 97 samples were collected from 15 participating elevators and one participating farmer in the central and southern regions of the United States. Total sorghum damage came in at 0.0 percent in the aggregate, and broken kernel and foreign material was only 1.4 percent, lower than last year’s results, highlighting the grain’s hardness and how well it survives handling and storage. Additionally, tannins were absent from the sorghum samples for the fourth year in a row and protein content averaged 11 percent. *********************************************************************************** Most Row Crop Acreage Now Managed Using Auto-steer and Guidance Auto-steer and guidance system adoption on U.S. farms increased sharply in the past 20 years, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Farmers indicate they use the technology on more than 50 percent of the acreage planted to corn, soybeans, winter wheat, and cotton as of 2019. Adoption rates were 58.4 percent of acres planted to corn in 2016, 55.9 percent of winter wheat acres in 2017, 54.5 percent of soybean acres in 2018, and 64.5 percent of cotton acres in 2019. Economic Research Service researchers examined producer responses from various Agricultural Resource Management Surveys to better understand how auto-steer and guidance systems use has evolved. Using GPS, these technologies visualize and track the position of tractors, harvesters, and sprayers in the field in real time. Autonomous steering permits automatically guided fertilizing, harvesting, and other tasks in the field with minimal involvement from the farmer, increasing field efficiency, reducing operator fatigue, and freeing up operator time in the equipment’s cab. *********************************************************************************** USDA Research: Increasing Vegetable Consumption May Better Mental Health New research finds that increasing vegetable consumption has a positive effect on how happy a person feels. USDA’s Agricultural Research Service says that holds true for adults who consume the daily amount of vegetable servings recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Researchers at the Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center conducted the eight-week study. The study divided healthy men and women between 18 and 65 years old into two groups. The first group of participants received daily servings of the recommended number and variety of vegetables based on their energy needs during the course of the study. The second group of participants received the same number of interactions and attention from the researchers while maintaining a diet without adding vegetables. All participants completed a questionnaire called the Subjective Happiness Scale, or SHS. Researcher Shanon Casperson says, “Results suggest that increasing the amount of vegetables you eat every day may benefit your mental health.” *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again, GasBuddy Warns of Increase Soon Gas and diesel prices fell again last week. The nation’s average gas price declined three cents to $3.40 per gallon, which is 7.8 cents high than a month ago, but 83 cents lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price dropped 5.9 cents to $4.19 per gallon, 92.7 cents lower than a year ago. However, GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan warns prices should start moving higher again. De Haan says, “any downward trends are still likely to be temporary and not necessarily long lasting.” GasBuddy cites the start of the upcoming summer driving season as a potential to increase demand and prices, along with the ongoing switch to more expensive summer blends of gasoline. Meanwhile, concerns over the recent banking collapse are fading and oil prices are seeing some strength as Chinese consumption rebounds. However, U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a rise of 0.14 percent last week, which on the surface was much more tame than expected.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 28, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will check the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday to see if USDA has another export sale to announce. A report on U.S. consumer confidence for March will be out at 9 a.m., the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Traders are already looking ahead to Thursday's Hog and Pigs report and Friday's Grain Stocks and Prospective Plantings reports. Weather A couple of small disturbances are working their way through the country east of the Rockies on Tuesday, but with limited shower potential. The Gulf Coast will have some heavier showers along a stalled front there. All eyes are focused on the West where another storm system is moving in with widespread heavy precipitation. That storm system will bring widespread impacts to the country throughout the week. Colder temperatures over the northern snowpack continue to limit melting.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 27, 2023 |
USTR Hearing Before Senate Committee Gets Testy U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before the Senate Finance Committee last week, and the discussion turned contentious. The Hagstrom Report says both Democrats and Republicans had a lot to say about the administration’s agricultural trade policies. Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said he has real concerns that USTR isn’t doing enough to break down the barriers our exporters face. “I’ll draw a line here – the U.S. cannot conclude agreements with Japan, Indonesia, or the EU that leave issues facing our exports unaddressed,” Wyden said. In other remarks, Tai said she’s open to trade talks with China. “While we keep the door open to conversations with China, including on its Phase 1 agreement commitments,” she said during prepared remarks, “we must also defend our values and economic interests from the negative impacts of China’s unfair economic practices.” Her remarks didn’t indicate specific plans for discussions with China’s new economic team. *********************************************************************************** Planting Survey Shows Smaller 2023 Corn Crop Farm Futures conducted its March survey and found farmers opting for more drought-consistent crops this spring as depleted soil moisture levels present a big challenge for farmers. Steep input costs are also a factor in acreage decisions this spring. As a result, Farm Futures expects that 2023 planted corn acreage will drop one percent from last year to 87.7 million acres. If that corn number is realized, the projected 87.7 million acres would be the smallest-planted U.S. corn acreage since 86.4 million acres got planted in 2009. Survey results show farmers in the Plains have the highest chance of changing some corn acres in 2023. Farm Futures’ soybean estimate of 89.6 million acres is a 2.5 percent increase from last year and would be the second-largest soybean crop on record. Farm Futures’ total wheat estimates are noticeably similar to acreages from a year ago but include 3.4 percent more winter wheat acres. *********************************************************************************** ERS Releases Report on U.S. Export Crop Competitiveness The USDA’s Economic Research Service released a report titled “U.S. Export Competitiveness in Select Crop Markets,” and it showed the U.S. is still the world’s top corn exporter. The report says that export shares and exports-to-production ratios indicate that the United States is still the top exporter of corn, tree nuts, and cotton. However, it also says other competitors have gained shares in the global wheat and soybean markets. “Over the last decade, the U.S. lost its position in the global wheat market as the EU, Russia, and Ukraine gained market shares,” the report says. “Similarly, Brazil and Argentina continue to pose a challenge to U.S. soybean exports.” Brazil has been the largest exporter of soybean oilseed since 2021. The ERS report also shows the United States’ involvement in trade agreements contributes to its export competitiveness. “From 2012 through 2020, the U.S. didn’t establish any new free trade agreements,” the report says. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Drop Slightly From January and February The Food Price Index averaged 129.8 points in February 2023, down 0.6 percent from January and continuing the downward trend for the eleventh-consecutive month. As of February, the index has dropped 30 points from the peak it reached in March 2022. The marginal decline in February reflected significant drops in the price indices of vegetable oils and dairy together with smaller drops in cereals and meat indices. The sugar price index was the only one to rise sharply, up 8.1 points to 124.9 in February. The Cereal Price Index averaged 147.3 points in February, down a fraction from January and two points above its level one year ago. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 135.9 points, down 4.5 points from January and reaching the lowest level since early 2021. The Dairy Price Index was 131.3 points, 3.6 points lower than in January, and the Meat Price Index dropped fractionally to 112 points. *********************************************************************************** Plant Closure Raises Antitrust Concerns Tyson Foods recently announced it will be closing a Virginia processing plant in May. The two-month notice given to its chicken suppliers has raised concerns among farmers and legal experts about Tyson’s compliance with antitrust regulations. Those regulations require a company like Tyson to give a 90-day notice before they end a contract. The planned closure means chicken producers are scrambling to find new buyers in a region with few or no options. Reuters says there may be forthcoming fines for Tyson under the Packers and Stockyards Act, the U.S. antitrust law requiring the minimum advance warning. However, Tyson says it’s not canceling any farmers’ contracts and will pay the growers for the full remainder of their contracts, keeping them in compliance with federal antitrust regulations. Antitrust issues in meatpacking have been a priority for the USDA because four companies control up to 85 percent of the beef, pork, and chicken markets. *********************************************************************************** Kansas Winter Wheat Struggling with Drought Spring is typically a good time for rain on winter wheat. However, intense drought conditions in western Kansas continue to hurt winter wheat. Less than 20 percent of Kansas winter wheat is in good to excellent condition. The U.S. Drought Monitor says only 15 percent of Kansas’ acres are not experiencing any level of drought stress. More than 36 percent of the state reported D4 exceptional drought compared to just a little over one percent last year. D3 extreme drought conditions are hurting 16 percent of the state, with D2 severe drought hitting 13 percent of Kansas. Dennis Todey of the Midwest Climate Hub says the best chance of precipitation this spring is in the areas currently experiencing extreme drought to exceptional drought. Still, he says it’s going to be very hard to eliminate the drought in those areas. Todey says the worst drought is outside of corn and soybean growing areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 27, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Reports, Reports and Weather Reports OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of March 26. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Beware of corn and bean bears: The DTN commodity analyst team is continuing to watch for bearish market news as interest rates, bank closures and renewed saber rattling on the Black Sea grains front take headlines. DTN subscribers will know that we've recently made several marketing recommendations via our Six Factors Strategies. 2. Big grain reports: March 31 sees the release of the USDA Quarterly Grain Stocks report and the spring Prospective Plantings report. Watch for Hultman's preview of those reports midweek. Coverage of the actual reports will hit right after 11 a.m. CDT on Friday, with updates throughout the morning. 3. The week will also include: Monday -- USDA's weekly grain export inspections; Tuesday -- U.S. consumer confidence index for March. Wednesday -- DOE weekly energy inventories; Thursday -- USDA weekly export sales, U.S. jobless claims, Q2 update of U.S. GDP numbers and the quarterly hogs and pigs inventory. 4. Spring storms roll in: As we write this, severe weather appears likely for Tennessee Valley March 25-27. This is on top of the flooding and other rain damage in Missouri, Texas and Oklahoma. The states of Tennessee, Kentucky, and down into Alabama have certainly had their share of rough early spring weather the past few years. We're also watching the Southern Plains area for March 30 weather. Weather models show another big ol' doozy of a storm churning up for that area. "Big ol' doozy" is an official meteorological term, by the way, according to DTN resident cloud whisperer John Baranick. 5. Vilsack talks to Congress: There were lots of conversations around expectations for the 2023 Farm Bill and ag spending in general last week during the Ag Day celebrations in Washington, D.C. Those talks continue with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack testifying before the U.S. House Agriculture Committee on Tuesday. We'll watch for insights around those questions and, more importantly, the answers.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 27, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts, especially for rain prospects in Brazil and have grown accustomed to expecting a daily corn sale announcement from USDA at 8 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly export inspections report is due out at 10 a.m. and is the only significant event on Monday's docket. Weather A cold front that stalled out in the Southeast over the weekend and brought heavy rain while severe weather remains active. A weak system is moving through the Central Plains with some areas of snow that may be moderate in spots. Other small areas of showers dot the U.S. on Monday. Cold morning temperatures in the southwestern Plains may be causing more damage to more-advanced wheat as this area yet again misses out on precipitation.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 24, 2023 |
Midwest Farmers Planting More Corn and Wheat Midwestern farmers are planning to plant more corn and wheat this spring. An Ag Access survey says farmers will add 27 percent more acres to corn and 32 percent more to wheat. A smaller percentage, at 17 percent, says they’ll increase their soybean acres. The survey results match up with USDA projections at its recent Ag Outlook Forum. The agency forecasts corn plantings at 91 million acres, up from 88.6 million in 2022. Wheat plantings will be 49.5 million acres, up from 45.7 million in 2022. Soybean acres will total 87.5 million acres, unchanged from last year. USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyers says the increase in wheat acres is in response to tight supplies and high global prices brought on in part by the war in Ukraine. The Ag Access survey also asked farmers about their top concerns for 2023. Ninety-three percent said their top answer was high input costs. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Face Extreme Variation in the Price of Inputs Farmers Business Network released its 2023 Ag Chemical Price Transparency Report which highlights the extreme price variation facing farmers. The report collected information from 37 states and accounts for over 800 insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides. “The last two years have seen extreme fluctuations in chemical pricing for farmers,” says Kevin McNew, chief economist and VP of FBN Research. “Providing more transparency enables producers to make more informed buying decisions to drive ROI from every input dollar.” Across 236 different chemical products, there was a 15 percent variance, on average, between the average list price of a product and the price farmers actually paid for it. For example, the average list price for Roundup PowerMAX 3 in June 2022 was $60 per gallon, but farmers paid between $45-$73 during that time. FBN says extreme farmer-to-farmer variability suggests that chemical markets make it challenging for farmers to get uniform costs for ag chemicals. *********************************************************************************** Next Generation Fuels Act Reintroduced in the Senate The Next Generation Fuels Act was reintroduced in the Senate, a move that drew praise from the National Corn Growers Association. The legislation, one of NCGA’s top agricultural advocacy priorities, would lower fuel prices, reduce carbon emissions, and help keep America’s energy secure. The Act would clean up the nation’s fuel supply and transition new vehicles to use cleaner, more efficient fuels that also lower costs for drivers. It would establish a clean, high-octane standard for fuel and require that sources of additional octane result in at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions. That would allow automakers to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency through advanced engines. The legislation builds on the nation’s clean energy progress by advancing higher ethanol blends and new vehicles that work together to deliver greater emissions reductions, cost savings, and consumer choice. The Act would also permanently remove barriers that prohibit access to year-round ethanol. *********************************************************************************** Bankers Report an 8.1 Percent increase in Farm Bank Lending Despite numerous headwinds in 2022, agricultural lending by U.S. farm banks increased by 8.1 percent in 2022 to $103.1 billion. The American Bankers Association’s annual Farm Bank Performance Report says the change is due to a 9.7 percent increase in outstanding loans secured by farmland and a 5.9 percent increase in agricultural and production loans. The report also says farmland continues to provide a strong equity base for producers to tap as land values saw strong growth in 2022 after staying flat for several years. The bankers say the ag sector will face continued challenges in 2023 due to monetary policy actions targeting persistent inflation in the U.S. and continuing geopolitical uncertainty. The report also shows farm banks are a major source of credit to America’s small farmers. Banks held more than $43.8 billion in small farm loans, including $9.3 billion in micro farm loans at the end of 2022. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Drops Below One Million Barrels a Day The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production dropped below an average of a million barrels a day during the week ending on March 17. That’s the first time production dropped below that mark in over two months. Output totaled 997,000 barrels a day, on average. That’s down from 1.04 million barrels a day during the prior week and the lowest since the seven days ending on January 6. The country’s largest-producing region is the Midwest, which saw production drop to 954,000 barrels a day from 966,000 the previous week. That’s also the lowest since early January. Gulf Coast production dropped an average of 8,000 barrels to 24,000 barrels per day. East Coast and West Coast production totals were the only ones higher than the prior week, with each rising about 1,000 barrels to an average of 11,000 and 5,000 barrels a day, respectively. Stockpiles averaged about 26.188 million barrels a day. *********************************************************************************** Nomination Open for American Lamb Board Members Nominations for new members of the American Lamb Board must be submitted by certified nominating organizations and are due to the USDA’s Ag Marketing Service by May 5. The Secretary of Agriculture appoints the board members from the nominations. USDA is looking for a producer with 100 or fewer lambs, a producer with more than 500 lambs, a feeder with 500 or fewer lambs, a first handler, and a seedstock producer. One of the producer representatives must be from Region One, east of the Mississippi River. The board positions for feeder, first handler, and seedstock representatives are not limited to geographic location. Board members who have completed two consecutive three-year terms are not eligible for reappointment to the ALB. Each vacant position needs a minimum of two nominations. The 13-member board maintains and expands markets for sheep and lamb products. Board members come from both east and west of the Mississippi River.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 24, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets A report on February U.S. durable goods orders will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the only significant report of the day. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and keep an eye on financial markets. Traders will also pause at 8 a.m. CDT, having gotten accustomed to USDA announcing a corn export sale. Weather Widespread rain and thunderstorms are occurring along a stalled front in the Ohio Valley back to a system moving through the Southern Plains. Thunderstorms are strong Friday morning across Oklahoma and Texas and will move through the Lower Mississippi Valley later Friday with significant risks of severe weather. Meanwhile, heavy rain will continue in the Ohio Valley. As the system moves northeast along the front later Friday night, a band of snow will develop across the Midwest and could be heavy for a small stripe from eastern Iowa through Michigan.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 23, 2023 |
Federal Court in North Dakota Weighs Granting WOTUS Injunction LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Over the objection of EPA attorneys, a federal judge on Wednesday granted agriculture groups' motion to intervene in an ongoing lawsuit filed by 24 states challenging the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule. Though the WOTUS rule took effect on March 20, the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota also is considering a motion filed by the states for a preliminary injunction. Earlier this week the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas granted a preliminary injunction to the states of Texas and Idaho, while denying a motion to intervene and a motion for a national injunction filed by ag groups including the American Farm Bureau Federation. The federal judge in North Dakota was much more lenient in granting ag groups' motion to intervene. "In the Southern District of Texas litigation, as in this case, the defendants asserted no preliminary injunction should issue but, alternatively, asserted any injunctive relief should be geographically limited to the plaintiff states," Judge Alice R. Senechal said in the court's decision. "Because defendants oppose nationwide injunctive relief, movants contend the only avenue open to organizations such as theirs with nationwide interests is to file separate actions covering the entire nation. And they point to litigation over the 2015 WOTUS rule -- where several courts enjoyed enforcement in only states that were parties to the litigation -- as 'instructive.' In fact, the injunction recently issued in the Southern District of Texas applies only in the two states that are plaintiffs in that case." The court granted the ag groups' motion in part because otherwise they would face the possibility of filing separate lawsuits in the each of the 24 states. States filing the lawsuit include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Their lawsuit alleges EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have "toppled the cooperative federalism regime" by implementing a rule that is "overbroad and hopelessly vague." The interest groups allowed to intervene include the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Pork Producers Council, Public Lands Council, U.S. Poultry and Egg Association as well as state-level ag groups and construction interest groups. "Keeping in mind the premise that any doubts should be resolved in favor of intervention, in this court's view, movants have established that their interests are not adequately protected by the existing parties," the court said. The 24 states have asked the federal court in North Dakota to vacate the Biden administration's iteration of the WOTUS rule and to find it unlawful, and to prevent the agencies from enforcing the rule.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 23, 2023 |
Coalition Calls for Farm and Food Business Technical Assistance in the Farm Bill An agriculture-focused coalition Wednesday asked the House and Senate Agriculture Committees for dedicated funding for business technical assistance and farm viability in the upcoming Farm Bill. American Farmland Trust, the Agricultural Viability Alliance, and a national coalition of agricultural organizations, service providers, nonprofits, businesses, lending institutions, and government entities made the request in a letter to lawmakers. The call for dedicated Farm Bill funding builds on work that AFT, in partnership with the Agricultural Viability Alliance, began in 2021 requesting USDA to set aside a portion of Coronavirus relief funding for one-to-one business technical assistance. Business technical assistance covers a wide range of one-to-one services offered to farm and food businesses by nonprofit organizations, state agencies, private consultants, and extension services. Customized to meet the unique needs of individual businesses, these services include coaching, skill development, and planning related to financial and labor management, marketing and business strategies, farm transfer and succession, and access to land and capital. *********************************************************************************** Grains Council Signs Ethanol MOU in Panama The U.S. Grains Council this week signed an ethanol memorandum of understanding with the Industrial Association of Sugar Cane of Panama. The signing came as part of a USDA trade mission to South America. The Grains Council held a regional seminar in Panama City that brought together stakeholders and government officials from Central American countries and the Dominican Republic to learn about ethanol and gasoline blending in the region. The MOU recognizes the importance of assessing the role and benefits of biofuels and ethanol in promoting economic growth, diversification of the energy matrix and decarbonization of transportation in the global energy transition to address global greenhouse gas emissions. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor says, "This MOU bolsters economic and energy security through both domestic production and strengthening trade ties between our two nations." Global ethanol consumption has grown from 16 billion gallons in 2010 to more than 27 billion in 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCGA to EPA: Ensure Consumer Access to Higher Ethanol Blends The National Corn Growers Association urged EPA officials to implement a petition from Midwest governors that would remove barriers to higher blends of ethanol and avoid further delay. EPA’s public hearing reviewed the agency’s recent proposal to implement a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline so drivers in those states continue to have year-round access to fuel with 15 percent ethanol, often marketed as Unleaded 88. EPA has proposed delaying implementation of the governors’ plan until 2024. NCGA President Tom Haag took issue with the delays to date and urged EPA to avoid further delays in implementation. He also highlighted the emissions reduction benefits of E15 and the current cost savings of up to 20 cents or more per gallon when drivers choose E15. Haag says, “we now strongly urge EPA to implement this rule with an effective date of April 28, 2024 -- as proposed --without further delay.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Investments in School Meals The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced new investments to provide healthy school meals to students. USDA announced several actions to expand support and access to the school meal program including $50 million in grants to increase collaboration between schools, food producers and suppliers. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Continuing to make school meals healthier and available to more students are some of the best ways we can help our children thrive early in life." Grants were awarded to Boise State University, the Chef Ann Foundation, Full Plates Full Potential and the Illinois Public Health Initiative. USDA says the grants will foster innovation in the school food marketplace to get a wider variety of healthy, appealing foods into the marketplace and onto kids' lunch trays. Schools and other eligible organizations can apply for the challenge sub-grants later this year and are encouraged to check the USDA’s Healthy Meals Incentives website for updates. *********************************************************************************** Commodity Classic 2023 Sets Record Attendance Organizers of the 2023 Commodity Classic announced more than 10,400 attendees were at the event in Orlando earlier this month. The 2023 event broke the previous Commodity Classic record of 9,770 attendees from New Orleans in 2016. Commodity Classic co-chair George Goblish says, "We knew going into the event that registration was up 30 percent over last year, but to have a record-breaking show just blew us away." Co-chair Kenny Hartman of Illinois added, "There's nothing like connecting in person, and it just felt like everyone was so excited to come together again to see the best agriculture has to offer. This year's event featured more than 30 educational sessions, a sold-out trade show with more than 400 exhibitors, a keynote address by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, and policy meetings of the sponsoring commodity associations. The 2024 Commodity Classic will be held February 29 - March 2, 2024, in Houston, Texas. For information, visit CommodityClassic.com. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker Seeks to Ensure AM Radio in All Vehicles Representative Josh Gotthemier this week urged electric vehicle manufacturers to include AM radio in their cars and trucks. The New Jersey Democrat says, "I would think that if Elon Musk has enough money to buy Twitter and send rockets to space, he can afford to include AM radio in his Teslas." The lawmaker says that despite the public safety uses of AM radio, many EV manufacturers have stopped including AM radio in their vehicles. AM radio is the backbone behind America's National Public Warning System, which provides emergency-alert and warning information to the public during major natural disasters and domestic threats. Gottheimer is writing to major EV auto manufacturers urging them to reconsider their decision to discontinue AM radio in their cars. Gottheimer also called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to add AM radio to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to require that all automakers include AM radio as a stock feature in their vehicles.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 23, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report is 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. February U.S. new home sales are set for 9 a.m., followed by weekly U.S. natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be released at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and are in the habit of expecting an export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather A cold front from Texas through the Midwest is going to be fairly active on Thursday as a system moves out of the Southern Rockies and attaches itself to the front. That will increase the risk of severe weather across Oklahoma and Texas later Thursday and Thursday night, mostly with a hail threat. Heavier rain and thunderstorms are going to develop along this front, which could lead to some areas of flooding going through Friday from Oklahoma through the Ohio Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 22, 2023 |
NASDA Releases Feeding the Economy Report As part of the National Ag Day Celebration Tuesday, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture released its annual Feeding the Economy Report. The data shows food and agriculture industries and their suppliers contribute over $8.6 trillion to the U.S. economy. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says the report "proves our industry's continued strength across the states and around the globe." This year's report shows the U.S. food and agriculture sector directly supports nearly 23 million jobs, provides $927 billion in wages, and is particularly vital to rural communities across America. Notably, the 2023 report reveals that manufacturing agricultural products accounts for nearly one-fifth of total manufacturing jobs in the United States. Overall, more than 46 million jobs are supported across the food and agriculture supply chain, increasing nearly two percent since the 2019 report despite the economic challenges and disruptions associated with the global pandemic. Find the report at feedingtheeconomy.com. *********************************************************************************** Biden Creates new National Monuments to Conserve Land and Waters President Biden Tuesday announced two new actions to conserve and restore lands and waters across the nation. The effort includes establishing the Avi Kwa Ame (Avak-yuh-ah-may) National Monument in Nevada and Castner Range National Monument in Texas. The Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada will honor Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples while conserving public lands and growing America’s outdoor recreation economy, according to the White House. The Castner Range National Monument will expand access to the outdoors for the El Paso community while honoring veterans and servicemembers. Together, these new national monuments protect nearly 514,000 acres of public lands. The President also directed the Secretary of Commerce to consider initiating a new National Marine Sanctuary designation within 30 days to protect all U.S. waters around the Pacific Remote Islands. If completed, the new sanctuary would ensure the U.S. will reach the President's goal of conserving at least 30% of ocean waters under American jurisdiction by 2030. *********************************************************************************** New Coalition Calls for Robust Farm Bill Agriculture and Nutrition Funding Feeding America this week announced the launch of Farmers Feed America. The organization says the broad coalition shows that farmers and food banks are united in calling for a strong 2023 Farm Bill that meets the needs of America's farmers and protects federal nutrition programs. The new nonpartisan coalition comprises farmers, food companies, food retailers, and hunger-relief organizations, including Feeding America and the American Farm Bureau Association. This year's farm bill reauthorization process is an opportunity to reflect on the innovations that worked during the pandemic and apply those learnings to future food and nutrition policy, according to the organization. The Farmers Feed America coalition has come together to establish shared principles for the next farm bill that help meet the continued needs of communities facing hunger, bolster the nation's food resilience, and enhance markets for farmers and ranchers. The coalition urges members of Congress to adopt these principles as they write the 2023 Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Wildfire Prevention Investments The Department of Agriculture this week announced the first investment of a $1 billion effort to mitigate wildfire risks as the nation faces an ongoing wildfire crisis. USDA announced a $197 million investment for 100 projects that benefits 22 states as part of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. USDA's Forest Service worked with states and tribes through an interagency workgroup to develop the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program, originally announced in June 2022. Grant proposals underwent a competitive selection process, including review panels of state forestry agencies and tribal representatives. The agency used the three priorities outlined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to narrow down the communities in greatest need. These priorities included communities impacted by severe disasters, those with high or very high wildfire hazard potential or classified as low income. The initial round of investments will assist communities in developing Community Wildfire Protection Plans, key roadmaps for addressing wildfire risks locally. *********************************************************************************** Food Retail Concentration Increases as Geographic Area Shrinks New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows food retail concentration increases as geographic area shrinks. The food retail market comprises individual firms, such as grocery stores and supercenters, that sell food products to consumers. The concentration of these retailers’ shares of the market increased over the last three decades at the national, State, Metropolitan Statistical Area, and county levels in the United States. USDA uses the HHI index to calculate concentrations. HHI values range from 0 to 10,000, with higher values reflecting higher levels of market concentration, fewer firms, or increasing disparity between the size of the firms in the market. On average, food retail concentration is higher at the Metropolitan Statistical Area level than at the national level, and concentration is even higher once the market is defined at the county level. As the geographic market area shrinks, the market concentration in 2019 increased from 593 nationally to 1,300 at the state level, 1,800 at the Metropolitan Statistical Area, and 3,700 at the county level. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Ups Investment Game with Venture Capital Platform Launch The Collaborative Sorghum Marketing Transformation Program Tuesday announced the launch of a venture capital platform. The platform is dedicated exclusively to attracting capital for companies, projects and innovations that create opportunities for sorghum farmers. Board Director JB Stewart of Oklahoma says, “The number of opportunities to add value to sorghum farmers by attracting capital to our industry is truly unprecedented.” The program matches private capital with funding to support startups and established companies investing in sorghum and facilitates a network of private investors seeking opportunities for competitive returns in agriculture. Fueled by relationships across the sorghum industry and the supply chain, the program leverages knowledge and financial flexibility to support startups, existing companies and investors bringing innovation to the sorghum industry. Known as cSmart, the program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that comes alongside private investors by providing funding to startups and established businesses seeking to add new value to sorghum farmers.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 22, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the only significant report of the day before the Federal Reserve announces its decision on interest rates at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, especially in Brazil and have gotten in the habit of expecting an export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather Several storm systems are passing through the country on Wednesday morning. Some are coming and some are going, producing widespread areas of precipitation for much of the country throughout the day. This may turn into a band of moderate snow across Nebraska and into Iowa Wednesday night, along with a small potential for severe thunderstorms from northern Missouri into northern Indiana Wednesday evening as well. A cold front separates cold air in the north from warm air in the south while winds whip through the Southern Plains for yet another day.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 21, 2023 |
NCBA Concerned with District Court Decision to Let WOTUS Rule Stand The Biden administration's version of the Waters of the U.S. rule went into effect Monday. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association expressed displeasure in a District Court decision to deny a preliminary injunction of the rule. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "This latest WOTUS rule will place more burdens on family farms and ranches, drive up costs, and prevent cattle producers like me from making investments in our land." The Environmental Protection Agency finalized the latest WOTUS rule at the end of 2022. NCBA and its litigation partners filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the rule on January 18, 2023. NCBA sought a nationwide preliminary injunction, which would have prevented the federal government from implementing the WOTUS rule until the entire case is decided. Instead, the court granted a limited injunction in only two states—Texas and Idaho. NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart adds, “The court’s decision to keep the Biden administration’s WOTUS rule in place is concerning and irresponsible.” *********************************************************************************** UN Reaches Black Sea Grain Initiative Extension The United Nations Secretary-General over the weekend announced an extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. The announcement came at the last minute as the agreement was set to expire. The Initiative facilitates the safe navigation for the exports of grain and related foodstuffs and fertilizers, including ammonia, from designated Ukrainian seaports. During the first two terms, some 25 million metric tons of grain and foodstuffs have been moved to 45 countries, helping to bring down global food prices and stabilizing the markets. The Black Sea Grain Initiative, alongside the Memorandum of Understanding on promoting Russian food products and fertilizers to the world markets, are critical for global food security, especially for developing countries. The original agreement was signed in July of 2022 to address the need for Ukraine to export agricultural products during the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian officials indicate the agreement was extended for another 120 days. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Hails Bipartisan Effort to Freeze Flawed Wage Rate The American Farm Bureau Federation urges Congress to pass legislation to freeze the flawed 2023 Adverse Effect Wage Rate, or AEWR (a-were). AFBF says the rate distorts labor costs for farmers across the country who hire nearly 400,000 employees through the H-2A program. The bipartisan Farm Operations Support Act temporarily resets the AEWR at 2022 levels, providing much need wage relief to farm families and giving Congress an opportunity to deliver a fair and reasonable solution. Farm Bureau says the 2023 AEWR rule missed the mark by such a wide margin that farmers in some states experienced required wage increases of more than ten percent after smaller increases last year. The AEWR has significantly outpaced increases in the national average wage for most workers in America for most of a decade. AFBF President Zippy Duvall adds, “Farmers are committed to paying their employees a fair wage, but the new AEWR rule used flawed data to reach a flawed conclusion.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Kicks Off Central America-Dominican Republic Trade Mission Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor arrived in Panama City Monday to launch a regional agribusiness trade mission. Taylor and the trade delegation on the trip look to develop stronger ties and build economic partnerships between the United States and Panama and markets throughout the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement region. Taylor says, “I’m confident the next few days will produce mutually beneficial results to help expand trade and increase collaboration on key issues impacting agriculture in the United States and Central America.” Local staff from FAS Panama City will host business meetings between U.S. trade mission delegates and companies from Panama and six other countries seeking to import American food and farm products. The itinerary also includes bilateral meetings with the Panamanian government, retail promotions featuring U.S. products, and a memorandum of understanding signing between the U.S. Grains Council and the Panamanian Sugar Cane National Industry on ethanol blending. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces No Actions Under Feedstock Flexibility Program USDA's Commodity Credit Corporation announced Monday it does not expect to purchase and sell sugar under the Feedstock Flexibility Program for crop year 2022, which ends September 2023. The CCC is required by law to quarterly announce estimates of sugar to be purchased and sold under the Feedstock Flexibility Program based on crop and consumption forecasts. Federal law allows sugar processors to obtain loans from USDA with maturities of up to nine months when the sugarcane or sugar beet harvests begin. On loan maturity, the sugar processor may repay the loan in full or forfeit the collateral, sugar, to USDA to satisfy the loan. The program was initially authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill, as an option to avoid sugar forfeitures. Under the Feedstock Flexibility Program, if USDA is faced with the likelihood of loan forfeitures, it is required to purchase surplus sugar and sell it to bioenergy producers to reduce the surplus in the food use market and support sugar prices. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Education Gaps Exist Between Rural and Urban Communities Formal educational attainment in rural America has grown, but rural areas still lag behind urban areas. USDA’s Economic Research Service data shows the share of adults ages 25 and older with a bachelor’s degree or higher increased in rural areas from 15 to 21 percent. In the same time span, the share of adults in urban areas with a bachelor’s degree or higher increased from 26 to 36 percent, widening the rural-urban gap from 11 to 15 percentage points in these two reference periods. The rural-urban gap in the share of people with at least a bachelor’s degree is even larger for younger age groups. In 2017–21, the share of working-age adults, ages 25–64, with at least a bachelor's degree, was 37 percent in urban areas and 21 percent in rural areas. The share of younger adults ages 25–44 with at least a bachelor’s degree was 40 percent in urban areas and 22 percent in rural areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 21, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets On Tuesday, the second day of spring, February U.S. existing home sales are due out at 9 a.m. CDT. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting with a lot to talk about, but no decision to announce until Wednesday. Traders will continue to monitor weather forecasts and will remain touchy about any new events in the financial sector. Weather The first in a string of storms is moving into the Plains Tuesday, bringing scattered showers to the southeastern Plains into the Midwest and Delta, and a batch of snow to the Northern Plains. Winds again will be breezy for the Southern Plains, which will continue to draw out what available soil moisture exists for areas that are going to stay dry in this active pattern. Speaking of which, the next storm system in the series is moving into California, which will make for two more storm systems for later in the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 20, 2023 |
Court Puts WOTUS Hold in Texas, Idaho Federal Judge Also Denies Request to Issue a National Injunction LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- A federal judge in Texas granted a preliminary injunction on Sunday, halting the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule in Texas and Idaho, pending the outcome of a lawsuit filed by the state of Texas and several industry groups including the American Farm Bureau Federation. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown in the Southern District of Texas in Galveston put the injunction in place as the rule took effect on Monday in the rest of the country. The injunction will remain in place pending consideration of motions to vacate the rule and send it back to the EPA. Brown, a Trump appointee, denied a motion for a national injunction against the new rule by ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation. Texas and five agencies in the state filed a lawsuit against the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Jan. 18 and a total of 18 interest groups including the agriculture, oil and housing industries filed suit a day later in the same court in Galveston. There are two other lawsuits pending in federal court in North Dakota, where 24 states have sued the Biden administration, and in Kentucky where the state of Kentucky has sued the EPA. In granting the preliminary injunction, Brown found Texas and Idaho have a "substantial likelihood" they would prevail on the merits of the case, would face a "substantial threat" that they would suffer "irreparable injury" without an injunction, that the threat of injury outweighs the "threatened harm" to the party they seek to enjoin and that the injunction was in the public's interest. Brown, however, found the associations also party to the lawsuit, including the AFBF, have not shown "irreparable harm" if a national injunction is not issued. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association said in a statement it was disappointed in the court's decision not to grant a national injunction. "This latest WOTUS rule will place more burdens on family farms and ranches, drive up costs, and prevent cattle producers like me from making investments in our land," NCBA President Todd Wilkinson, a South Dakota cattle producer, said in a statement. "While we appreciate the court's injunction of the rule in Texas and Idaho, we are strongly disappointed in the decision to keep this WOTUS rule in place in 48 states." Brown's ruling was critical of the Biden administration's use of two tests -- significant nexus and relatively permanent -- when making jurisdictional determinations. "Even if the court assumes that Justice Kennedy's significant-nexus test appropriately measures the agencies' jurisdiction under the act, the rule does not accurately reflect his test," Brown said in his ruling. "Indeed, the rule's substantial variance from Justice Kennedy's test compels the court to question its legitimacy and persuades the court that the plaintiffs will likely succeed on the merits. Certainly, the court agrees with the defendants that federally regulating some interstate waters may be necessary to carry out Congress's intent to protect the nation's waters but the court is not convinced that the act's text supports unrestrained federal jurisdiction over all interstate waters. "As explained above, the court finds a substantial likelihood that the 2023 rule exceeds the agencies' statutory authority under the act." Brown's decision was seen as a setback by environmental groups that are defending the Biden administration's approach. "This decision is a setback for the public, which has long depended on the Clean Water Act to safeguard downstream communities and the environment," said Stuart Gillespie, senior attorney with Earthjustice. "We will work closely with our partners to ensure the law and science prevail, and that our communities receive the protections afforded by the Clean Water Act." Texas and the ag groups said in motions the court should stop the agencies from implementing the rule, pointing out their concerns with the reach of the new rule. "The rule abandons any limitation to waters that impact interstate commerce, relying on an arbitrary 'significant-nexus' test that strays far from any legal authority," Texas said in a motion. "Texas asks the court for an injunction to support the public interest and prevent irreparable harm to Texas' sovereignty, its agencies' core objectives and incurrence of unrecoverable costs to comply with a rule unlikely to survive review." Texas argued the WOTUS rule effectively asserts jurisdiction "over non-navigable, intrastate waters based solely on whether the use, degradation, or destruction of the water could affect interstate or foreign commerce." Texas said the rule "unlawfully expands" federal jurisdiction and "arbitrarily casts federal authority over a remarkable array of water features (or dry land). "The issue before the court is whether Texas must incur the burden and expense of complying with a federal 'clarification' while Texas challenges that rule as federal overreach," Texas said in its motion.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 20, 2023 |
Organizations Want Congress to Pass TPA America’s top food and ag organizations representing thousands of farmers, ranchers, producers, and workers sent a letter to Congress urging action to improve ag exports. More than 50 of the most influential food and ag groups urged Congress to pass Trade Promotion Authority. TPA is regularly passed by Congress to give the administration objectives and guidance in pursuing tariff-cutting trade agreements. The letter notes when it comes to trade agreements with tariff reduction, the U.S. is falling behind global economic competitors like China and the European Union. “Regrettably, America is falling badly behind,” the letter says. “Between 2010 and 2020, China and the E.U. enjoyed over twice as much advantage from trade agreement tariff reductions as the U.S.” They also say the situation has gotten much worse this decade. “The United States has not implemented a comprehensive trade agreement that opens new markets in more than a decade,” the groups add. *********************************************************************************** USDA Awards Funding to Protect U.S. Cattle From FMD The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association with $445,400 in funding to advance the Secure Beef Supply Plan. The plan would go into effect in the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the U.S. “NCBA is grateful for this critical funding to help continue defending the U.S. cattle herd from the threat of foot-and-mouth disease,” says Allison Rivera, NCBA executive director of government affairs. “The Secure Beef Supply Plan combined with USDA’s national vaccine bank provides a strong safety net for cattle producers and multiple tools to mitigate the risk of a potential outbreak.” This funding was made available through the 2018 Farm Bill and shows why continued support and further funding for animal disease preparation measures like the Secure Beef Supply Plan and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank are so important as Congress works on the 2023 Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** African Swine Fever Surging Again in China African Swine Fever is making a resurgence in China and will potentially push prices higher for the most popular protein in the country. Bloomberg says multiple outbreaks have shown up in different parts of the country throughout the winter. Rabobank expects the most recent wave of ASF to significantly lower production capacity and push prices higher during the second quarter of 2023. The outbreak was most severe in the northern regions of the country, and multiple areas are still struggling with the disease. Rabobank estimates say the latest wave has hit 10 percent of the nation’s sow herd, which controls hog production. An outbreak in 2018-2019 decimated China’s pig herd, at the time, the largest herd in the world. The spike fueled inflation as pork is a key element in the Chinese consumer price index. Official estimates say 8-15 percent of total production could be lost in the current outbreak. *********************************************************************************** TFI Happy with Biostimulant Legislation The Fertilizer Institute President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch is pleased with the introduction of the Plant Biostimulant Act. The act, introduced in both the House and Senate, will support the adoption of biostimulants by farmers and provide clarity to the emerging marketplace. Biostimulants have the potential to enhance the existing environmental stewardship of growers and complement their 4R practices. “Biostimulants support environmental stewardship by improving the efficiencies of fertilizer application and soil health while also increasing crop yields,” Rosenbusch says. “With a growing population, demand for agricultural production continues to increase.” He also says biostimulants are a relatively new innovation in agriculture and that there’s great potential in these products. However, there are hurdles to overcome, including the lack of a uniform framework to regulate them as plant nutrition products. “We need the guardrails this act provides to help foster innovation, research, testing, and a path to market these products,” Rosenbusch says. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for 2024 Export Programs The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from eligible organizations for fiscal year 2024 funding for five export market development programs. FAS recently published the FY 2024 Notices of Funding Opportunity for the Market Access Program, Foreign Market Development Program, Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program, the Quality Samples Program, and the Emerging Markets Program. Under the Market Access Program, USDA provides cost-share assistance to U.S. exporters and agricultural, fish, and forest product trade organizations for international marketing and promotion of U.S. commodities and products. Under the Foreign Market Development Program, USDA partners with nonprofit agricultural and forest product trade associations to build longer-term international demand for U.S. commodities. The Emerging Markets Program supports technical assistance activities for developing emerging markets for U.S. agricultural, fish, and forest products. The application deadline for the five programs is May 19. For more information on the rest of the programs, go to fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Drought Relief in the Western U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says spring flooding is an ongoing problem in the western U.S., especially in California. The abnormally wet winter will further improve drought across much of the western U.S. as a historically-high snowpack melts in the months ahead. Winter precipitation combined with recent storms has eliminated exceptional and extreme drought in California for the first time since 2020 and is expected to further improve drought conditions this spring. Moisture in the spring is expected to improve drought conditions across parts of the Northern and Central Plains. Drought conditions are expected to improve or disappear over the next three months in Florida. Areas of extreme to exceptional drought across parts of the Southern High Plains are likely to persist through the spring season. Drought is also expected to develop in parts of New Mexico. In the Northwest U.S. and northern Rockies, drought conditions are expected to continue.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 20, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Celebrations, Frosted Wheat and Bank Dramas OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of March 19. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Ag's big day Tuesday: March 21 is National Ag Day, as DTN and Progressive Farmer will help celebrate all that is agriculture. 2. Ridin' the fallout: With apologies to those rockers from Champaign, Illinois, we will continue to track the gathering storm of Silicon Valley Bank and other bank failures, along with their ripple effects around the globe. Our focus, as always, is on what it all means to your farming operation. 3. Speaking of storms: Things may be a little quieter on the weather front this week, with less chance of heavy precipitation in the areas that have been dumped on lately. Low temperatures will slow soil drying, however, and there have already been some reports of frost in the southern parts of the hard red winter wheat world. We'll watch for how that's playing out in Texas and Oklahoma wheat fields already hurt by dry soils and high winds. 4. Research falling behind? A House Agriculture subcommittee hearing Thursday will discuss the need to increase research dollars in the next farm bill. Many U.S. land-grant universities make the case we are falling critically behind in public ag research. It's not a new argument, but there are many new ears to hear it. 5. Key economic reports: Bank defaults and Fed intentions may get most of the attention, but there also are several rank-and-file economic reports coming this week that analysts will watch for clues to the state of the general economy. We'll look at existing home sales on Tuesday, Thursday sees new home sales, jobless claims and on the farm side of things we'll watch USDA weekly export sales numbers and the USDA monthly cold storage report. And many eyes will focus on the ongoing Black Sea grain deal, particularly now that there's an international arrest warrant for one Mr. V. Putin.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 20, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, in addition to checking the latest weather forecasts, traders will review reports UBS is buying Credit Suisse for roughly $3.2 billion and will be looking for a better explanation of how long the Black Sea grain deal will be extended for. Traders will also pause at 8 a.m. CDT to see if USDA has another corn sale to report. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. Weather There is a storm system moving through the Southwest U.S. Monday, but most of the country is quiet and cool. Temperatures early Monday morning are below freezing yet again in the Southeast but will rise early this week. The Southwest system is the first of a string that will move through the country this week, pushing a cold front through the country and offering widespread precipitation to boot.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 17, 2023 |
Allendale Predicts Corn and Soybean Planted Acres A farmer survey by commodity brokerage firm Allendale says America’s farmers are expected to plant 90.41 million acres of corn and 87.76 million acres of soybeans this year. Those projected corn planting acres would be below the USDA’s Outlook Forum forecast of 91 million acres but above the 88.57 million acres planted in 2022. Projected soybean plantings would top the USDA forecast of 87.5 million acres and exceed the 87.45 million acres planted to soy in 2022. Allendale predicts the all-wheat plantings at 48.7 million acres, below the USDA prediction of 49.5 million but higher than the 2022 planted area of 45.73 million acres. Allendale projected U.S. farmers’ winter wheat seedings to be 36.52 million acres, below the USDA’s January estimate of 36.95 million acres but up from the 33.71 million acres seeded during 2022. The brokerage and analysis firm projects “other spring wheat” acreage for 2023 at 10.6 million acres. *********************************************************************************** National Wheat Organizations Disappointed in Railroad Merger U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers are disappointed that the Surface Transportation Board approved the merger of the Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern Railroad. They believe the STB has given a green light to rail consolidation without regard for the consequences on agricultural shippers from a lack of competition in the U.S. rail sector. “U.S. rail consolidation has led to poorer, not improved, service for agricultural shippers,” says USW President Vince Peterson. “In addition, we see extreme disparity in rates for wheat shippers.” Higher shipping rates make U.S. wheat less competitive in the global market at a time when higher prices already hurt the competitiveness of American wheat. “With 50 percent of wheat getting exported, wheat is heavily reliant on rail transportation to move across the U.S.,” says NAWG CEO Chandler Goule. They say the STB must conduct more rigorous oversight of rail rates and service issues. *********************************************************************************** New SD Law Gives More Protection to Ag Operations A new law in South Dakota makes it harder to file nuisance complaints or lawsuits against an agricultural operation. South Dakota Searchlight says it will also limit the amount of monetary awards. After legislators approved the bill earlier this winter, Governor Kristi Noem signed it at a Mitchell, South Dakota, implement dealership this week. She says agriculture is the state’s “number one industry,” and the law protects farmers from frivolous lawsuits. Provisions in the law say only the owner or lessee of an affected property can file a nuisance action and only if the affected property is within a mile of the operation. Groups like Dakota Rural Action and the Izaak Walton League say the law is unnecessary and goes too far. Additional provisions say the plaintiff must present “clear and convincing evidence” the operation violated local, state, or federal laws. The new law goes into effect on July 1. *********************************************************************************** New AI Platform Will Predict Ag Supply Chain Disruptions Helios (HE-lee-ohs) Artificial Intelligence, Inc. launched the open beta of its platform that will identify agricultural supply chain disruptions ahead of time. The company’s founder and CEO says they’ve created a one-stop platform for agricultural importers to understand the risks to their supply chain and get ahead of their competitors. The AI platform will eventually predict supply availability ahead of a company’s competitors and find alternative suppliers before they do. It identifies climate and economic risks to yields and works with supply chain partners to mitigate them before it’s too late. The AI will also provide actionable input into the negotiation process with insights and access to billions of data points. Existing customers are seeing good results so far. William Hovis, who used to be with Coca-Cola, says when suppliers missed deliveries, the company was missing sales. “Helios provides companies with actionable insights to help them get ahead of competitors.” *********************************************************************************** Bill to Support Cutting-Edge Agricultural Research Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Advancing Cutting Edge Agriculture Act to support high-risk, high-reward agricultural research and development at USDA. The sponsors say the act will help “secure America’s food supply” and give farmers and ranchers the tools to meet the challenges of the 21st century. “Now more than ever, Americans have seen how vulnerable the nation’s food system can be,” Marshall says. “Targeting the many risks our food system faces through research will ensure that the U.S. continues to provide a safe, secure food supply for a growing world population.” Bennet also notes that family farmers and ranchers face persistent drought, higher costs, extreme weather, and increased global competition, saying, “That makes it more important than ever to invest in cutting-edge research to spur agricultural breakthroughs, including practices to conserve water and cut greenhouse gas emissions.” Companion legislation will be introduced into the House. *********************************************************************************** 2023 Power of Meat Research Released at Annual Meat Conference Last week at the Annual Meat Conference, research from the latest Power of Meat Study showed consumers’ meat usage, attitudes, and trends. The report says 2022 meat sales rose 5.7 percent versus 2021, and almost 87 percent of all home-prepared dinners featured meat or poultry. Also, more than 98 percent of shoppers make meat purchases. Inflation is becoming an issue for the entire meat industry. Consumers spent at least 25 percent more on food in 2022 than in 2019. Economic conditions are prompting 76 percent of Americans to change what groceries they purchase. The POM report says 50 percent of meat eaters purchase meat and poultry for use over the next few days after the sale. Price plays a much more important role among younger meat eaters, while Boomers emphasize quality and appearance. The total package price rose in importance during prior years, but shoppers emphasize value as quality going hand-in-hand with the price.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 17, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's report on U.S. industrial production is set for 8:15 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the Conference Board's U.S. index of leading indicators and the University of Michigan's U.S. index of consumer sentiment, both due out at 9 a.m. In addition to monitoring weather and the latest bank news, traders will also pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA might have a fourth consecutive export sale announcement. USDA's cattle on-feed report for March 1 will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A storm system that brought widespread precipitation to the middle of the country Thursday continues across the East and South on Friday. Most of this will be rain but colder air filtering in behind the system will lead to some areas of snow and lake-effect in the Great Lakes. Colder temperatures down in the Plains may be damaging to more-advanced wheat. Some breezy conditions will continue across the Midwest as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 16, 2023 |
Surface Transportation Board Approves CP, KCS Merger The Surface Transportation Board Wednesday approved the Kansas City Southern Railway Company acquisition by Canadian Pacific Railway Limited, with conditions. The decision includes an unprecedented seven-year oversight period and contains many conditions designed to mitigate environmental impacts, preserve competition, protect railroad workers, and promote efficient passenger rail. The Board also anticipates the merger will result in improvements in safety and the reduction of carbon emissions. The companies filed a merger application in October of 2021 with the Surface Transportation Board. The combination of the two railroads, known as Canadian Pacific Kansas City, will create the first railroad providing single-line service spanning Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Yet, the merged company will continue to be the smallest Class I railroad, with a network that is a few thousand route miles shorter than the next smallest Class I and half the size of the Western railroads. *********************************************************************************** Mexico Voices Concern over Product of US Label Mexico’s Agriculture Ministry recently voiced concerns regarding the proposed voluntary “Product of USA” label effort. Announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack last week, the label claim would be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. Mexico's Agriculture Ministry claims the proposal, "even when it is a voluntary claim, could have implications for discriminating against Mexican exports of live animals and meat products." Mexico is the second largest supplier of beef and beef products to the U.S., representing 24 percent of total U.S. imports. Congress repealed mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for meat products in 2016, after the World Trade Organization approved trade retaliations by Canada and Mexico over the issue. USDA says petitions, thousands of stakeholder comments, and data support its proposal. A comprehensive review in 2021 by USDA “shows there is a clear need to revise” the “Product of USA” label claim. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Provide Clean Drinking Water for Rural Americans Senators Tommy Baldwin and Susan Collins Wednesday introduced the bipartisan Healthy Drinking Water Affordability Act, or The Healthy H2O Act. Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat and Collins, a Maine Republican, say the bill will provide water testing and treatment technology grants directly to individuals and non-profits in rural communities. Currently, nearly 43 million households, primarily in rural communities, rely exclusively on groundwater delivered through private wells for their drinking water. These sources are not subject to the same oversight and testing for contamination of public water sources. Water quality improvement systems installed at the faucet or within a building can provide immediate and ongoing protection from known and emerging water contaminants, like PFAS, lead and nitrates. The bill follows a proposal to create standards for PFAS chemicals in drinking water Tuesday by the Environmental Protection Agency. The legislation would allow the Department of Agriculture to provide grants for testing and removing contaminants from drinking water. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Institute Welcomes Lower Energy Costs Act President of The Fertilizer Institute, Corey Rosenbusch, this week welcomed the introduction of the Lower Energy Costs Act. TFI says the legislation will provide a streamlined and simplified permitting process for hard rock mining, including phosphate and potash mining. Rosenbusch says, “Delays are measured in years and in the millions of dollars, with those paying the price being consumers who are already struggling with the rising costs of everyday goods.” The delays Rosenbusch referenced include a permit to mine phosphate in Florida that took nearly ten years and tens of millions of dollars in expert fees, studies, legal analysis, and legal fees, and a mining expansion permit for an existing mine that has been in limbo for over 12 years at a cost of over $25 million that has yet to be approved. The fertilizer industry is asking Congress for a reliable and predictable permitting process to ensure mining projects have a clear path toward compliance and approval. *********************************************************************************** Bills Providing Permanent E15 Fix Introduced in House and Senate The National Corn Growers Association this week applauded legislation that would provide permanent, nationwide market access for E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88. NCGA reports 35 bipartisan Senate and House members introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "There's no reason for market access to a safe, clean and affordable fuel option to remain in question." Despite EPA approving E15 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles, and a 2019 update to regulations, a 2021 court decision would have ended year-round market access to E15. Temporary action by the Biden administration allowed E15 sales last summer, but access is in question for 2023. The Environmental Protection Agency proposed implementing a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline in their states to ensure year-round E15. However, EPA has proposed to delay implementation until 2024. NCGA encourages the Biden administration to again provide temporary access for the 2023 summer driving season. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for World Pork Expo 2023 Registration for the 35th annual World Pork Expo opened this week. The 2023 World Pork Expo, organized by the National Pork Producers Council, will be held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 7-9. This year marks a major milestone for the world’s largest pork-specific trade show. NPPC president Scott Hays says, “We’re looking forward to celebrating the Expo’s incredible legacy this year with an impressive schedule of events.” The 2023 World Pork Expo will feature three days of programming and educational seminars that showcase the pork industry's latest product and process innovations. Additionally, industry professionals will have networking opportunities to meet and connect. Registration is available online and includes entry to the World Pork Expo for all three days. Until June 1, discounted rates are available during pre-registration, including $10 per adult. On-site registration will be $20 per adult. Attendees can register to attend at WorldPork.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 16, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, February housing starts and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is out at 9:30 a.m. After two days of corn export sales, traders will be watching to see if another export sale gets reported Thursday and will also have antenna up for any further bank problems. Weather A storm system is moving from the Central Plains to the western Midwest on Thursday. Scattered showers have already developed across South Dakota and Nebraska and will expand across more of the central states throughout the rest of the day. This is including a band of moderate to heavy snow from Nebraska to Lake Superior and potential for severe storms across the southeastern Plains, most notably along the Red River. Winds are also elevated and where it coincides with the snow, could create some blowing snow and visibility issues.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 15, 2023 |
Consumer Price Index Increases Again The Consumer Price Index rose 0.4 percent in February on a seasonally adjusted basis, after increasing 0.5 percent in January. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 6.0 percent before seasonal adjustment. The food index increased 0.4 percent in February, and the food at home index rose 0.3 percent over the month. The index for nonalcoholic beverages increased 1.0 percent in February, after a 0.4-percent increase the previous month. The indexes for other food at home and for cereals and bakery products each rose 0.3 percent over the month. The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.2 percent in February, and the index for dairy and related products rose 0.1 percent. In contrast, the meats, poultry, fish, and eggs index fell 0.1 percent over the month, the first decrease in that index since December 2021. The index for eggs fell 6.7 percent in February following sharp increases in recent months. *********************************************************************************** EPA Proposes PFAS Standards for Drinking Water The Environmental Protection Agency Tuesday proposed the first-ever national drinking water standard for PFAS chemicals. As part of EPA's PFAS Strategic Roadmap, the agency proposed to establish legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur in drinking water. The proposal also initiates the distribution of $10 billion in funding to address emerging contaminants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. EPA Administrator Michael Regan says the proposal "would help provide states with the guidance they need to make decisions that best protect their communities." If finalized, the proposed regulation will require public water systems to monitor for these chemicals. Senator Joe Manchin, a West Virginia Democrat, says, "Many farmers, producers and growers, at no fault of their own, have found alarmingly high levels of PFAS in their food products.” Last month, Manchin encouraged the Biden administration to provide funding to help farmers when they are forced to remove their products from the commercial market. *********************************************************************************** More Than 400 Organizations Voice Support for Existing Pesticide Law More than 400 organizations affirmed the support of the pesticide regulatory system under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, or FIFRA, in a letter to lawmakers this week. The letter is in response to recently introduced legislation that would undermine the science-based standards contained within our nation's pesticide law. This is the third time these organizations have contacted Congress to voice concern over similar proposed legislation. Crop Life America president and CEO Chris Novak says, "Any legislation seeking to ban individual chemistries and politicize the regulatory process undermines EPA's work and the long-standing laws that serve our nation well." Novak says the proposed legislation would jeopardize the continued availability and innovation of pesticide products by imposing an unscientific and unbalanced process. The proposal could unnecessarily remove pest control options from those who need them to safely grow crops, adopt conservation practices such as conservation tillage and resource-saving crop rotations. *********************************************************************************** USA Rice: India Violating WTO Commitments Data from the Department of Agriculture shows India will continue to dominate the world rice trade in the 2022/23 marketing year. USDA projects India will break its own world record with 22.5 million metric tons of rice exports. In May 2022, the U.S. government along with nine other governments initiated technical consultations with India regarding its trade-distorting rice subsidies. However, to date, the U.S. government has not taken formal action to address India's alleged World Trade Organization violations. Now, the USA Rice Federation is calling for a WTO trade dispute action. "India's policies not only violate their WTO commitments, but also impact the livelihoods of those that produce or consume rice across five other continents," according to Bobby Hanks, USA Rice International Trade Policy Committee chair. Hanks added, "We encourage the U.S. Trade Representative to initiate a dispute settlement action to help American farmers and our counterparts compete on a level playing field." *********************************************************************************** Researchers Aim to Reduce Pesticide Drift in the Lower Mississippi Delta Researchers with USDA's Agricultural Research Service in Mississippi are investigating the best ways of using hooded sprayers to combat drift. Pesticide drift occurs when droplets move through the air to another place other than the target area during or after pesticide application. The research finds using a hooded sprayer can reduce pesticide drift of pre-emergent herbicide applications by 63 percent, in comparison to a nonhooded sprayer. Hooded or shielded sprayers effectively minimized the exposure of herbicide spray to wind and led to fewer off-target depositions. While hooded sprayers have advantages, the presence of a physical shield can pose challenges during road transport or repairing nozzles when compared to conventional sprayers. If a farmer does not have access to a hooded sprayer or prefers to use a conventional sprayer, mitigating pesticide drift is still possible by avoiding high wind speed and high temperature during spraying. Researchers also found reduced drifting with a longer sprayer boom length during pre-emergent herbicide applications. *********************************************************************************** USMEF Announces Spring Conference Details The U.S. Meat Export Federation Tuesday announced the speaker lineup and registration details for its 2023 Spring Conference, set for May 24-26 in Minneapolis. The opening general session will feature USMEF's senior staff from the Asia Pacific region, who will discuss emerging issues in key Asian markets, including how the removal of many COVID restrictions could provide momentum for the region's foodservice sector. The following day, USMEF will examine the state of U.S.-Mexico trade relations. At the closing session, former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson – who oversaw development of four farm bills during his 30 years in Congress – will discuss the challenges lawmakers face as they work to craft an effective, pro-trade farm bill over the coming year. In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussions on topics relevant to each sector. More information, including registration details, are available on the USMEF website, USMEF.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 15, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index for February will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the same time as a report on February U.S. retail sales. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories is due out at 9:30 a.m., followed later Wednesday morning by February soybean crush estimates from the National Oilseeds Processors Association. Weather Colder temperatures settled into the southeastern states Wednesday morning, with widespread areas below freezing for the first time in a long time. Another storm system was working through the West, but outside of some breezy winds in the Southern Plains and some snow across the far Northern Plains, will be relatively quiet east of the Rockies today. That storm system in the West will bring more widespread precipitation through the Plains late Wednesday night and Thursday, heading eastward to close out the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 14, 2023 |
Canada Seeks Conversation With Mexico Regarding Biotech Crops Canada requested talks with Mexico regarding its decree banning biotech corn imports. The request came under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, just like the request from the United States. The U.S. formally requested technical consultations last week with Mexico regarding the issue, the first step towards a dispute resolution panel under USMCA. Canada is not a major exporter of corn to Mexico, but is concerned about Mexico putting prohibitions on agriculture biotech products, according to Bloomberg. Canada also raised concerns regarding Mexico’s lack of respect for trade regulations agreed to within USMCA. The updated decree by Mexico limits the import and use of biotech corn, including banning white corn exports immediately. Mexico’s economy ministry claims it will “demonstrate with data and evidence that there has not been an effect on trade” and that it has acted in accordance with the USMCA. The United States counters that the decree is not based on scientific evidence that biotech corn is safe. *********************************************************************************** AEM: Combine Sales Growth Continues Tractor unit sales in both the U.S. and Canada stay near their five-year average while combine harvesters in both countries continue triple-digit growth. The latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers released Monday shows that overall U.S. ag tractor unit sales fell for the month of February, despite gains in the 100-plus horsepower and four-wheel-drive segments. Combine sales, however, put up another strong month, rising 165 percent year-over-year. Total farm tractor sales in the U.S. for the month fell 19.4 percent versus February 2022 and are down 17.2 percent year-to-date. In Canada, combine sales were hot again, growing 246.7 percent in February. Overall unit sales in tractors finished the month down 8.1 percent Year to date, tractors in Canada are down 0.5 percent, while combines are up 205.1 percent. AEM’s Curt Blades says, “On the tractor side, most of those losses are the result of overly hot sales of small units during the pandemic.” *********************************************************************************** Meat Plants employed Nearly 31% of US Food Workers in 2021 The latest federal data shows that in 2021, the U.S. food and beverage manufacturing sector employed 1.7 million people, or more than 1.1 percent of all U.S. nonfarm employment. Within the U.S. manufacturing sector, food and beverage manufacturing employees accounted for the largest share of employees, 15.4 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service Monday announced the data, noting that these employees help to transform raw agricultural materials into food products for intermediate use or final consumption in thousands of food and beverage manufacturing plants located throughout the country. Manufacturing jobs include processing, inspecting, packing, janitorial and guard services, product development, and recordkeeping, as well as nonproduction duties such as sales, delivery, advertising, and clerical and routine office functions. In 2021, meat and poultry plants employed the largest share of food and beverage manufacturing workers at 30.6 percent, followed by bakeries at 14.7 percent, and beverage plants at 12.4 percent. *********************************************************************************** American Farmland Trust Awards Over $1 Million in Microgrants to Farmers For the first time, American Farmland Trust awarded more than $1 million in grants in a single year to 190 farmers across the country. The grants were from AFT’s Brighter Future Fund and the New England Farmer Microgrants Program. Both microgrants programs seek to improve farm viability, facilitate farm transfer and succession, help farmers access farmland, and work to permanently protect farmland for future generations. AFT makes grants to farmers and ranchers to advance AFT’s mission to protect farmland, promote sound farming practices and keep farmers on the land. The grants help drive new solutions for resolving key challenges facing society by increasing the resilience of farms to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. AFT’s Ashley Brucker says, “we are helping farmers do things like convert a school bus to a mobile farmers market, access legal support for legacy planning and purchase firefighting equipment to cope with wildfires in a drought-stricken area.” *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Prepare for Careers in Animal Systems Pathways FFA members from across the country this spring traveled to Denver, Colorado, to explore careers in the animal systems industry. The 73 FFA members attended the Next Gen Conference, which began in 2020 and focuses on specific pathways, from animal systems to biotechnology systems. Through the event, members access new ideas, trends and opportunities that connect them directly with industry leaders to explore future career paths. The conference is designed specifically to give FFA members hands-on, industry-relevant experience. Members explored diverse animal operations around Denver and learned how to plan for their future careers. In addition, they learned about marketing, new technologies and unique opportunities in animal systems. An FFA spokesperson says the conference helps “cultivate future leaders in the animal systems pathway through a week of experiential learning, relevant education and networking.” The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Move Higher, Diesel Lower For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, up eight cents from a week ago to $3.44 per gallon. The national average is up 7.1 cents from a month ago but 87.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 4.1 cents in the last week and stands at $4.30 per gallon, 82.1 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says the diesel price "continues to slowly decline as we see consumption for diesel lighten up." Wholesale gasoline prices continue to increase at a rate typical for this time of year, with the transition to more expensive summer gasoline underway. The most common U.S. gas price encountered by motorists stood at $3.29 per gallon, up 30 cents from last week, while the most common U.S. diesel price stood at $3.99 per gallon, unchanged from last week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 14, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for February will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, another factor in the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions. Traders will pay attention to the latest weather forecasts and any export sales announcements that might come out. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is out at 2 p.m. March grain and oilseed futures contracts expire early Tuesday. Weather A ridge developing in the middle of the country Tuesday will keep conditions mostly dry, but a weak disturbance will provide a few isolated showers to areas of the Southern Plains. Over in the West, a strong area of low pressure will continue to provide portions of the Pacific Northwest and California with heavy rain and snow. This system will work into the Great Basin over the next 24 hours and eventually make it into the Plains by Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 13, 2023 |
Higher Interest Rates Slow the Growth in Farmland Values Farm real estate values increased considerably in 2022 but showed signs of softening during the final months of the year as interest rates rose sharply. Interest rates on farm loans jumped to decade highs alongside increases in the federal funds rate. The Kansas City Fed says while the value of most types of farmland continued to rise, the increase was the slowest since early 2021. Agricultural credit conditions remained strong in the fourth quarter and continued to be bolstered by broad strength in the farm economy throughout 2022. The outlook for agricultural credit conditions looking ahead to the rest of 2023 also remained generally positive, despite some ongoing concerns. Elevated commodity prices continued to support profit opportunities for many producers across the farm sector. However, there are persistent concerns about operating expenses, higher interest rates, and intense drought. Improvement in farm income and credit conditions has softened slightly in recent months. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $29 Million in More American-Made Fertilizer Production The USDA announced it received over 350 applications for $3 billion in funding to expand domestic fertilizer production capacity. The applications came from 47 states and two territories for the first two rounds of a new grant program to add innovative domestic fertilizer production capacity. USDA also announced the first $29 million in grant offers under the first round that focused on projects that can come online in the near term. The grants will help independent businesses produce more American-made fertilizer, which will spur competition, give U.S. farmers more choices and better prices, and reduce dependence on several unreliable foreign sources. “I know that increased costs for fertilizer and other inputs have put a strain on farmers and cut into the bottom line,” Vilsack says. “By expanding domestic fertilizer production, we can grow independent local businesses, bring production and jobs to rural communities, and support fairer prices for our farmers.” *********************************************************************************** Bioscience Groups Call For Action on Mexico’s Biotech Corn Ban The National Corn Growers Association and a broad coalition of national and state agriculture and bioscience organizations sent a letter to the White House on Mexico’s GMO corn ban. The groups thanked the Biden administration for beginning technical consultations with Mexico. “We support your request for a consultation with Mexico regarding its treatment of agricultural biotechnology and denying the use of certain crop protection tools to provide a framework and timeline to resolve this issue,” the 62 groups wrote. “We look forward to these consultations beginning promptly.” They also say Mexico’s GMO corn ban draws a non-science based distinction between corn for food and corn for feed and industrial uses and is inconsistent with USMCA obligations. The ag and biotechnology groups reiterated the importance of beginning the legal process to not only resolve the dispute with Mexico but also prevent other countries from following suit. “Send a strong signal on enforcement,” they added. *********************************************************************************** The March Oil Crops Outlook Lowers U.S. Soybean Ending Stocks The USDA’s March Oil Crops Outlook lowered U.S. seasonal ending soybean stocks for the 2022-2023 marketing year by 15 million bushels to a total of 210 million because of higher exports. Soybean exports are raised by 25 million bushels to 2.02 billion bushels, while crush volumes are reduced by 10 million bushels to 2.2 billion bushels. The 2022-2023 global soybean supply is reduced this month due to lower production in Argentina and Uruguay. Argentina’s soybean production is lowered by eight million metric tons to 33 million metric tons on a lower harvested area and yields hit hard by drought. World soybean consumption is down 5.3 million metric tons this month. Global ending stocks were lowered to 100 million metric tons. Through March 2, cumulative marketing year U.S. soybean export inspections surpassed 2021-2022 totals as inspections to China surged and increased for Mexico. February’s export inspections set a record thanks to Brazil’s slow harvest. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Cost-Share Assistance for Grain Storage Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that producers in counties affected by eligible disaster events can apply for cost-share assistance through the Emergency Grain Storage Facility Assistance Program. Farmers in Kentucky, Minnesota, South Dakota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, and Tennessee are eligible for the program. It provides cost-share assistance for constructing new grain storage capacity and drying and handling seeds in order to support the orderly marketing of commodities. “Weather events in 2021 and 2022 in several states caused catastrophic losses to grain storage facilities on family farms as well as large commercial grain elevators, leaving stored grain exposed to the elements and affecting storage and commodity marketing options for many producers,” Vilsack says. “This new program will provide cost-share assistance to help producers address their on-farm storage capacity needs that are necessary for marketing grain.” Eligible natural disasters occurred from December 1, 2021, to August 1, 2022. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Wants Beagle Brigade Act Passed Quickly The National Pork Producers Council applauded the reintroduction of the Beagle Brigade Act of 2023. This legislation would provide congressional authority to the USDA’s National Detector Dog Training Center, which is a vital program in training agricultural canine teams that work daily to prevent foreign animal and plant diseases from entering the U.S. “Safe and reliable food production is critical to the United States’ continued national and economic security,” says Terry Wolters, NPPC President. “As African Swine Fever continues to plague the Dominican Republic and Haiti, strengthening early detection capabilities at our U.S. borders is more important than ever.” The “Beagle Brigade” serves as the first line of defense for early detection at the nation’s ports of entry and is critical for keeping foreign animal diseases out of the country. NPPC led more than 50 agricultural and other organizations in supporting the Beagle Brigade Act’s reintroduction and urges Congress to pass it.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 13, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Commodity Classic Coverage, Livestock Numbers, Cooler Temps This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of March 12. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. New equipment coming: Progressive Farmer Senior Editor Dan Miller, who covers the machinery world for us, is expecting continued announcements from some of the major equipment companies. If we say more, then this screen will self-destruct. Watch for continued new-product announcements. 2. Latest livestock numbers: Wednesday we'll have the latest Call the Market column from DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart. And Friday is the release of the latest Cattle on Feed report. Watch for Stewart's commentary on that. 3. More news from Orlando: The DTN Crops Team -- Crops Technology Editor Pamela Smith and Crops Editor Jason Jenkins -- will have more wrap-up news on the latest crop products and new ideas from the Commodity Classic last week. Watch for those pieces throughout the week; there was a lot happening in Mickeyville. 4. Cool weather running: With last week's ridge moving up and out to the Atlantic, DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick expects another cold front to sweep south. The void will also pull in Pacific air, moderating the expected drop in temperatures. Readers in the West, Northern Plains, and Canadian Prairies will see lower temperatures early in the week, with the moderation not hitting there until late in the week. Baranick reminds us that "below normal" temps do not carry the same bite as we hit mid-March as they did when these roller-coaster patterns kicked off in January. 5. A disaster remembered: Speaking of weather, we'll have a revisit of the infamous "bomb cyclone," which four years ago this week brought flooding, destruction and death to South Dakota, Nebraska, and parts of Iowa, Kansas and Missouri. Our Staff Reporter Russ Quinn, who farms north of Omaha, lived through it and then reported on it in real-time. See his feature full of remembrances and follow-ups.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 13, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend with one hour of less sleep, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT to see if USDA has an export sale to report. The only significant report of the day will be USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections, due out at 10 a.m. Weather High pressure will build across the middle of the country Monday, offering a break in precipitation. A ridge will continue to develop across the West Monday, which will allow for dry conditions to continue through Tuesday for much of the Central U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 10, 2023 |
Pork Exports Start 2023 Quickly America’s pork exports finished strong in 2022 and kept going into January. January pork exports were 236,767 metric tons, up 13 percent year-over-year, and export value rose 16 percent to $634 million. Exports to Mexico set a record in 2022 and hit another record in January. Pork exports also were significantly higher in China/Hong Kong, Japan, Canada, and other locations. “While Mexico leads the way, it’s encouraging to see broad-based growth,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Market diversification is always a big point of emphasis.” Beef exports slowed late in 2022, and that carried into January, when exports fell 15 percent to 100,942 metric tons. The value dropped 32 percent to just over $702 million. While beef exports declined to several major destinations, shipments increased sharply to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Africa. “We expect post-COVID foodservice demand to rise this year,” Halstrom says. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Signs MOU on Right to Repair The American Farm Bureau Federation and CNH Industrial brands Case IH and New Holland signed a memorandum of understanding, allowing farmers and ranchers to repair their equipment. The MOU follows a similar agreement Farm Bureau signed with John Deere earlier this year. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever before,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall, “so it’s critical they have access to the tools to keep things running on the farm, so the food supply chain keeps running too.” The MOU sets a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 states and Puerto Rico to access CNH Industrial brand manuals, tools, product guides, and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines. The MOU respects intellectual property rights and recognizes the need for safety controls and emission systems don’t get altered. CNH and AFBF will meet semiannually to review the agreement to address any concerns. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Reps Reintroduce DAIRY PRIDE Act in the House Representatives from Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Idaho, and Connecticut introduced the bipartisan DAIRY PRIDE Act. The legislation will prevent non-dairy products from using a dairy label and misaligning nutrient-scant products with the nutritious dairy products produced by American farmers. “Milk comes from a mammal, and it’s that simple,” says Wisconsin Rep Derrick Van Orden, one of the bill’s sponsors. “The nutritional value of whole milk for child development and as an integral part of a healthy diet can’t be overstated.” The Act will require products derived from seeds, plants, algae, and nuts to no longer get mislabeled with milk terms like milk, yogurt, and cheese. Plant-based products have completely different nutritional values, and the Reps say allowing these products to disguise themselves as otherwise is unacceptable to farming communities and the families they feed. The DAIRY PRIDE Act has broad support from a large number of agricultural organizations across the nation. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Inventories Drop in the U.S. and Canada The U.S. Department of Agriculture says all cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined totaled 101 million head on January 1, 2023, down three percent from January 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory totaled 42.9 million head, three percent lower than last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. as of January 1 totaled 89.3 million head, down three percent from 92.1 million last January 1. All U.S. cows and heifers that have calved were 38.3 million head, down three percent from last year. All cattle and calves in Canada were at 11.3 million head on January 1, down two percent from the 11.5 million head on January 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved inventory was 4.53 million head, two percent lower than last year. All sheep and lambs in the U.S. and Canada totaled 5.87 million head on January 1. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Welcomes Black Vulture Relief Act The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association applauded the Black Vulture Relief Act, introduced by Representatives John Rose (R-TN) and Darren Soto (D-FL). “Cattle producers across the country are coping with extreme input costs and the worst inflation rate in 40 years,” says NCBA Government Affairs Director Sigrid Johannes. “Livestock deaths due to black vultures are a financial loss that no one can afford right now.” The bill would allow cattle producers to “take” (capture, kill, disperse, or transport) black vultures that pose a risk to livestock. The bill also reduces permitting burdens and red tape by instituting a simple report that producers submit once a year detailing the number of black vultures they took. Black Vulture depredation rates have recently increased in the Southeast U.S., surpassing 30 percent in some states like Florida. “The Florida Cattlemen’s Association appreciates this commonsense bill,” says Jim Handley, executive vice president of the association. *********************************************************************************** USSEC Seats New Board of Directors The U.S. Soybean Exports Council chose its 2023-2024 Board of Directors during the organization’s annual meeting prior to the Commodity Classic. The board is made up of 15 members representing various stakeholders from the U.S. soy industry. Four members are from the American Soybean Association, four are from the United Soybean Board, and seven represent trade, industry, and state organizations. “The unique composition of USSEC’s board provides us with exemplary leadership with representation from across the U.S. Soy industry,” says Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO. Stan Born, an ASA director and soybean farmer from Illinois, was elected as USSEC chair for a 12-month term. “I’m honored to have the trust and confidence of the USSEC board to serve as chair,” Born says. “As members of the soy value chain, we are fortunate to have such a strong global team representing our industry in markets around the world.” Lance Rezac was elected vice-chair.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 10, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's will have nonfarm payrolls for February and the unemployment report out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday morning, numbers of great interest to Fed-watchers. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and watch for any export sale announcement. The U.S. Treasury will report on the February federal budget at 1 p.m. Weather A storm system leaving the Plains will provide scattered snow showers to the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley Friday with areas of heavy rain across the Tennessee Valley and Southeast. Another storm system continues moving east across the West with more heavy precipitation for that region. This system will be the next storm system in the active pattern for the rest of the country over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 9, 2023 |
Milk-Pricing Proposal Moves Ahead The National Milk Producers Federation’s Board of Directors unanimously endorsed a proposal to modernize the Federal Milk Marketing Order system at its March meeting. The Federation says the move caps more than two years of discussion and more than 130 meetings on different aspects of the proposal. The plan to reinvigorate the FMMO system that guides milk pricing reflects an industry that’s evolved significantly since the last comprehensive revamp in 2000. “We’re moving forward on a comprehensive FMMO proposal the entire industry can get behind,” says Randy Mooney, chair of the NMPF’s Board of Directors. The proposal includes several changes to the FMMO System, including returning to the “higher-of” Class 1 mover. The federation also proposes discontinuing the use of barrel cheese in the protein component price formula. They also want a new process to ensure make-allowances are reviewed more frequently by requiring USDA to conduct plant-cost studies every two years. *********************************************************************************** March WASDE Lower Corn Export Demand The USDA World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates for 2022-2023 U.S. corn calls for lower exports and larger ending stocks. Exports are reduced by 75 million bushels to reflect the poor pace of sales and shipments this year despite relatively competitive U.S. prices. With no other changes from February, ending stocks rose by 75 million bushels. The season-average corn price dropped a dime to $6.60 a bushel. Soybean supply and use changes for 2022-2023 include higher exports, lower crush, and reduced ending stocks compared with February. Exports are up by 25 million to 2.02 billion bushels based on higher-than-expected shipments through February. As higher exports more than offset lower crush, ending stocks dropped 15 million bushels to 210 million, which would be the lowest in seven years. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $14.30. The 2022-2023 U.S. wheat supply and demand outlook is unchanged from February. The season-average price is $9. *********************************************************************************** USDA Celebrates First National Biobased Products Day USDA celebrated the first National Biobased Products Day on Wednesday to highlight the accomplishments of people and organizations working to improve sustainability. “By setting aside March 8 as National Biobased Products Day, we honor the 20 years of progress the BioPreferred Program has achieved,” says USDA Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. Congress created the U.S. BioPreferred Program in the 2002 Farm Bill. The program is the federal government’s official advocate and market accelerator for biobased products. USDA congratulated the four winners of the BioPreferred Program’s “Excellence in Procurement Award” in 2022 for their respective agencies” environmental impact by using biobased products and championing farmers in rural America. Winners include the Department of Energy’s Y-12 National Security Complex in Tennessee, Christina Graves of the Forest Service, Brian McCabe of the National Park Service, and Brooke Siegel with the FBI. To learn more about the BioPreferred Program, go to biopreferred.gov. *********************************************************************************** Stockmanship and Stewardship Event Registration is Open Registration is now open for the six Stockmanship and Stewardship regional events that take place in five states this spring and summer, with an additional virtual event in November. During each event, producers can become Beef Quality Assurance certified, network with fellow cattlemen and women, participate in hands-on demonstrations led by animal handling experts, and learn cutting-edge operation techniques. A previous Stockmanship and Stewardship attendee shared, “While I have had experience in most of the topics covered, it was great to hear the speakers talk and give a good overview of industry practices. It was a great event and one that I encourage others to attend.” The event features low-stress handling demonstrations, BQA educational sessions, facility design sessions, and industry updates. The program is sponsored by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Merck Animal Health, and the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Assurance program. For more information or to register, go to StockmanshipAndStewardship.org. *********************************************************************************** Producers Respond to New H-2A Wage Rule The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced a final rule to amend H-2A temporary labor certification regulations to better protect agricultural workers. It’s also designed to update the H-2A application and temporary labor certification process. Not everyone in agriculture is happy with the rule. Western Growers Association President and CEO Dave Puglia (POO-glee-ah) says America’s farmers are already stretched to the limit by rising costs and shrinking margins. “With economic blinders on, the administration will now mandate that farmers pay higher wages to H-2A workers and domestic workers in corresponding employment,” he says. “Increasing wages by regulatory order will force farmers to cut back on U.S. plantings and increase their farm operations in Mexico and other countries where the wages are a fraction of the H-2A wage.” He also says while no one wants that to happen, these are entirely foreseeable consequences of “economically myopic” decisions like this. For more information, go to wga.com. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Attorneys General to Sue EPA Over Delayed E15 Rule The Attorneys General from Nebraska and Iowa have notified Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan of their intent to file suit over year-round E15. The filing comes after the agency delayed rulemaking on year-round E15 sales in eight Midwestern states. The EPA took over 300 days to issue a proposed rule despite a Clean Air Act requirement to act within 90 days. Iowa attorney general Brenna Bird says EPA needs to follow the law and make E15 gasoline available year-round. “With record-high gas prices, consumers deserve relief when paying at the pump,” Bird says. “The EPA’s failure to respond on time not only deprives hard-working people of a cheaper, cleaner option, it’s also a violation of the Clean Air Act.” The EPA approved the rule for year-round E15 sales in those states but delayed implementation until 2024. The attorneys also called on the agency to issue an emergency waiver for 2023.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 9, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather forecasts and any export sales announcement that might occur. Weather A storm system leaving the Rockies will increase precipitation across the Plains and Midwest on Thursday, spreading farther east overnight. Moderate to heavy snowfall amounts are expected out of this storm from Wyoming to Michigan. Another storm system is moving into the West with more heavy precipitation for that region, and the next storm system in the active pattern for the rest of the country over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 8, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Drops in February The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped five points to 125 in February. Farmers’ perspectives regarding both current conditions on their farms and their expectations for the future also weakened during the month. The Index of Current Conditions dipped two points to 134, and the Index of Future Expectations declined six points to 121. Several factors are weighing on producers’ minds, including the risk of falling commodity prices, rising interest rates, and uncertainty over the future growth of agricultural exports. The Farm Financial Performance Index dropped seven points to a reading of 86. Despite strong farm income, the February reading of the Farm Capital Investment Index didn’t change much, rising one point to a reading of 43. This month, 72 percent of producers said it’s a bad time to make large investments in their farming operation, while just 15 percent said it’s the right time to make those investments. *********************************************************************************** USDA’s Simplified Direction Loan Application Now Available A new, simplified direct loan application is now available for all producers seeking a direct farm loan from the Farm Service Agency. The new application went from 29 to 13 pages to provide an improved customer experience for producers applying for loans and enables them to complete a more streamlined application. Producers also have the option to complete an electronic fillable form or prepare a traditional paper application for submission to their local FSA farm loan office. Coupled with the Loan Assistance Tool released in October 2022, the simplified application will provide all loan applicants access to information regarding the application process and assist them with gathering the correct documents before they begin the process. This will help farmers and ranchers submit complete applications and reduce the number of incomplete, rejected, or withdrawn applications. Producers can explore all available options on all FSA loans at fsa.usda.gov or contact their local Service Center. *********************************************************************************** CropLife America Applauds USTR Actions CropLife America applauds the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office for requesting formal technical consultations with the Mexican government under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. The goal of the consultation is to address a long-standing agricultural technology trade issue. This announcement enforces Mexico’s trade commitments made in the USMCA and addresses concerns voiced by many in the U.S. ag community, including CLA, regarding the decree’s impact on biotechnology traits and pesticides in Mexico. The organization has maintained that Mexico’s regulatory actions regarding biotechnology ignore science- and risk-based regulations and the scientific weight of evidence from regulatory bodies around the world. CLA shares USTR’s concerns and is encouraged by the USTR’s focus on the need for a science-based regulatory approach. “We support the administration’s enforcement of a rules-based trading system for agricultural innovation and encourage USTR to also address regulatory delays and barriers that are impacting pesticide registrations in Mexico,” CLA said in a release. *********************************************************************************** Upper Missouri River Basin Runoff Forecast Below Average The updated 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. “Despite some improvements in overall basin conditions, we expect 2023 runoff to remain below average,” says John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Soil moisture has improved slightly in some areas, but drought conditions still exist across most of the basin.” The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 21.5 million acre-feet, 84 percent of the average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. February runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was one million acre-feet, 86 percent of a typical year. System storage is currently 46 million acre-feet, 10.1 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone. *********************************************************************************** Undersecretary to Lead Trade Mission to Panama USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead a delegation of 26 agribusinesses and farm organizations to Panama City, Panama, March 19-23. The mission highlights opportunities in Panama and throughout the Central America and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) region. Exports of agricultural products to Panama and CAFTA-DR countries reached a record of $8.8 billion in 2022, up 57 percent from 2018. “I’m excited that my first USDA trade mission is targeting Panama and our CAFTA-DR partners,” Taylor says. “The region provides great potential to the U.S. agriculture sector as consumers across the area clamor for the world-class agricultural and food products grown here in America.” In Panama City, trade mission participants will engage directly with potential buyers, receive in-depth marketing briefings from the Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. “I look forward to connecting buyers and sellers,” Taylor says. *********************************************************************************** NAMI says USDA Label Proposal Will Raise Prices for Consumers The North American Meat Institute says the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service’s latest attempt at proposed rules for a “Product of the USA” label for meat products will not succeed. The organization says labeling meat products will result in trade retaliation from Canada and Mexico, costing American consumers and businesses billions of dollars. “USDA should have considered more than public sentiment on an issue that impacts international trade,” says NAMI President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “Our members make considerable investments to produce beef, pork, lamb, veal, and poultry products in American facilities and employ hundreds of thousands of U.S. workers.” That means NAMI products should labeled as a “Product of the USA.” At issue is a proposed rule from the Food Safety and Inspection Service that would limit “Product of the USA” claims to just products made from livestock born, raised, harvested, and processed in the continental U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 8, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets On Wednesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell returns to Congress for a second day, typically repeating what he said Tuesday. The U.S. Commerce Department will have its report of the January U.S. trade deficit at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are at 11 a.m. and the Federal Reserve's Beige Book is at 1 p.m. Weather A wave of loosely organized showers was moving through the middle of the country from Minnesota to northeast Texas early Wednesday morning. Showers in this area will wane throughout the day, though thunderstorms are likely to develop over northern Texas later in the day. A system in the Rockies will start to exit into the Plains Wednesday night where showers will increase in dramatic fashion going into Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 7, 2023 |
USTR Requests Consultations With Mexico, Vilsack Responds The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office Monday requested technical consultations with the Government of Mexico under the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement. The consultations, as part of the USMCA Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Chapter, are aimed at Mexico’s ban on genetically modified corn. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says, “Mexico’s policies threaten to disrupt billions of dollars in agricultural trade and they will stifle the innovation that is necessary to tackle the climate crisis and food security challenges if left unaddressed.” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack responded, “These consultations represent the next step in addressing the United States’ concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology policies,” while adding, “We remain firm in our view that Mexico’s current biotechnology trajectory is not grounded in science, which is the foundation of USMCA.” The U.S. government’s intention is that through the consultation process, USTR can reach an outcome that respects each country’s sovereignty and benefits the United States, Mexico, and U.S. agricultural producers and stakeholders. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: USTR Request a Step Closer to USMCA Dispute Panel The request for technical consultation with Mexico by the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office puts the U.S. one step away from a full dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The National Corn Growers Association and affiliated state associations have been leading calls for the Biden administration to act, applauded the development and urged USTR to expedite the process. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "Mexico's position on biotech corn is already creating uncertainty, so we need U.S. officials to move swiftly and do everything it takes to eliminate this trade barrier." A technical consultation will bring leaders from both countries into formal discussions. If this step does not resolve the stalemate, the U.S. can then initiate a dispute settlement under USMCA. Once a dispute settlement is filed, a group of experts are empaneled to hear the case and make final determinations based on the commitments both parties signed as part of the free trade agreement. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes New Requirements for the “Product of USA” Label The Department of Agriculture Monday released a proposed rule with new regulatory requirements to the voluntary “Product of USA” label claim. The proposed rule allows the voluntary “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” label claim to be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when they are derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “These proposed changes are intended to provide consumers with accurate information to make informed purchasing decisions.” Vilsack announced the proposal at the National Farmers Union annual convention in San Francisco. NFU President Rob Larew says, “This voluntary effort is a strong step and a strong base for permanent and mandatory country of origin label soon.” However, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association responded, “Simply adding born, raised, and harvested requirements to an already broken label will fail to deliver additional value to cattle producers and it will undercut true voluntary, market-driven labels that benefit cattle producers.” *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Announces New Independent Processors Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced an $89 million investment to finance the startup and expansion of independent meat processors. USDA also announced the department's initial steps to create a more competitive marketplace for seeds and other agricultural inputs. Vilsack says the investment "will promote competition, support producer income, strengthen the supply chain, and increase economic opportunity in rural communities." USDA is providing $89 million in grants under the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program to increase available financing for independent processors, alleviate bottlenecks, and create opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in rural communities. The investments are being made under the second round of the program. Nonprofit lenders in seven states will use the funding to establish revolving loan funds to finance the startup, expansion and operation of meat and poultry processors. USDA is making the investments in Alabama, Georgia, Maine, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Analysis: 2022 Crop Losses Top $21 Billion The American Farm Bureau Federation estimates 2022 crop losses due to weather and climate change at more than $21.4 billion. The AFBF Market Intel analysis shows in 2022, 18 weather and climate disasters, each with damages exceeding $1 billion struck the United States. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported that 2022 surpassed 2021 as the third-costliest disaster year event in history, with an estimated $165 billion in total economic losses. In 2022, Texas suffered the most significant hit, with over $6.4 billion in incurred losses primarily made up of $2.9 billion in damages to cotton. More than half of the agricultural losses were effectively protected under existing risk management programs with the remainder highlighting the importance of inclusive protections for growers of all crops in all regions of the nation. AFBF crop loss estimates do not include infrastructure damage, livestock losses, horticulture crop losses or timber losses associated with the selected weather events. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Helps Fight Hunger Through Harvest for All Program Farm families from across the nation donated 25.3 million pounds of food and raised more than $1 million to help fight hunger in 2022 through Farm Bureau's "Harvest for All" program. Combined, the monetary and food donations totaled the equivalent of 31.1 million meals. Criteria for tracking Harvest for All donations included dollars and pounds of food donated by state and county Farm Bureaus, as well as volunteer hours. In addition to raising food and funds, farmers and ranchers tallied 13,827 volunteer hours assisting local hunger groups in 2022. Florida Farm Bureau took top honors for donating the most food in 2022, 18.7 million pounds, and the most volunteer hours at 6,400. Michigan Farm Bureau took top honors for raising the most money in 2022, $372,716. Since Harvest for All was launched, Farm Bureau families have gathered 437 million pounds of food, logged more than 237,000 volunteer hours and raised more than $11 million in donations.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday March 7, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets On Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell addresses Congress and will likely repeat the need for further rate hikes to bring inflation down to the Fed's 2% target level. Traders will check the latest weather forecasts and may pay attention for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. CST, having faith restored by Monday's corn sale. Weather A broad ridge across the West is extending far enough into the Rockies to produce showers in the Plains on Tuesday. Thunderstorms across the Southern Plains could be a bit stronger along the Red River, though chances there are low. Moderate snows are expected across the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 6, 2023 |
Food Prices Drop for 11th Straight Month Global food costs moved lower again for the 11th consecutive month. The Financial Post says while consumers are still spending more for food, prices are at their lowest level in the last 17 months. The UN Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index dropped 0.6 percent in February, the longest string of lower food prices in 30 years. The index averaged 129.8 points last month, dropping from 130.6 in January. Last month’s drop was driven primarily by cooking oils and dairy. The overall index is down 19 percent from a record set last year when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine disrupted grain exports around the world. The FAO says sugar prices rose last month, while meat and grains were almost identical to the previous month. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped almost five points to 135.9 in February, while the dairy index was down 3.6 points, or 2.7 percent, to 131.3. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Coalition Applauds Court Decision on “Gruyere” The National Milk Producers Federation, the U.S. Dairy Export Council, and other industry stakeholders prevailed in their battle to protect generic names in the U.S. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld prior court decisions finding the term “gruyere” (groo-YAYR) is a generic term for a type of cheese. The decision should end attempts by Swiss and French groups to take away a common food name through a U.S. certification mark registration. The court said when people enter stores and ask for gruyere, they mean a type of cheese, not a cheese produced in the Gruyere regions of Switzerland and France. The Fourth Circuit found the evidence of that to be so one-sided that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact, and opposers must prevail as a matter of law. The decision reinforces that generic terms like “gruyere” refer to types of food, regardless of where it’s produced. *********************************************************************************** Ag Safety Awareness Week: “Lead the Way in Agriculture” The Agricultural Safety Awareness Week Program is this week, March 6-10. U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers will join Farm Bureaus across the country to promote ag safety this week with the theme of “Lead the Way in Agriculture.” Each day has a different focus, beginning on Monday with Mental Health. Preventative Health Care, Safety Culture, Situational Awareness, and Temperature-Related Safety will be the focus Tuesday-Friday, respectively. “Keeping everyone safe on America’s farms and ranches is so important,” says American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “We encourage farmers and ranchers to take the time to make safety a priority during this week and throughout the year.” The Agricultural Safety and Awareness Program is part of the Farm Bureau Health and Safety Network of professionals who share an interest in decreasing safety and health risks. Visit the Center’s YouTube channel for new content and fresh ideas about how to stay safe year-round. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Keynote Commodity Classic Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will be the keynote speaker during the General Session at the 2023 Commodity Classic this Tuesday through Saturday in Orlando, Florida. The General Session is this Friday, March 10. The General Session will also include the leaders of the five associations that present the Commodity Classic, including the American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Education is a big focus at Commodity Classic. The event offers Learning Centers, What’s New, and other educational sessions, along with additional opportunities for education and events at the Commodity Classic Main Stage. The Classic also features a large three-day trade show, entertainment, and the opportunity to network with thousands of America’s farmers and agriculture industry professionals. Established in 1996, Commodity Classic is the largest farmer-owned, farmer-run trade show event. For more information or to register, go to commodityclassic.com. *********************************************************************************** 2022 was the Third-Costliest Disaster Year in History 2022 will go into the books as the third-costliest year for weather disasters in U.S. history. The estimated total economic losses reached $165 billion. New analysis by American Farm Bureau economists shows extreme weather caused more than $21 billion in crop losses. The impact on American farms and ranches demonstrates the importance of farm bill programs to help rural communities recover from weather-related disasters. The AFBF Market Intel Report says more than $11 billion in losses were covered by existing Risk Management Agency programs as of February 2022. Over $10 billion in losses were not insured through RMA, existed outside of policy coverage levels, or didn’t qualify under an existing risk management program. “It’s not hard to see why programs like crop insurance and disaster coverage are vital to the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers and the overall stability of our country, as a whole,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Export Sales Hit Marketing-Year Low The USDA says export sales of corn and wheat both dropped while soybean sales declined to a marketing-year low during the week ending on February 24. Corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 598,000 metric tons, down 27 percent from the previous week and 48 percent from the prior four-week average. Mexico was the top corn buyer at 207,400 metric tons. Exports for the week dropped three percent to 666,400 tons. Wheat sales were 16 percent lower than the prior week at 284,000 metric tons, 39 percent higher than the same week last year. Japan was the top buyer at almost 71,000 tons. Exports were up 81 percent to 610,000 metric tons. Soybean sales dropped 14 percent week-to-week and 25 percent from the four-week average to 360,700 tons, the lowest since the marketing year began last September. China purchased 218,400 metric tons. Weekly soybean exports dropped 45 percent to 881,000 metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 6, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Commodity Classic Hits Orlando, March WASDE is Out OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of March 5. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. WASDE -- The March Madness of crop predictions -- begins: Wednesday brings the latest World Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report from USDA. We'll have initial numbers in our Flash story just after 11 a.m. CST, followed by updates and analysis through the following half hour. Our analysts are especially watching for bearish higher U.S. ending corn stocks estimates, driven by lower exports and South American production estimates. As always, DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will have an online discussion of the report at 12:30 p.m. CST. 2. No Mickey Mouse reports: Four major commodity groups gather in Orlando, Florida this week for the Commodity Classic, and we'll be there. Watch for fresh reporting on policy issues, award winners and new crop chemicals and machinery. If you're in town, please visit us at the DTN booth to see the latest in our information and decision-making products. Stop by at 11:30 a.m. EST on Thursday we'll hold a panel discussion with leaders from CHS and DTN. Saturday morning (8:30 a.m. EST) DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick will present the latest spring and summer forecasts. Hope to see you. 3. No rest for wicked weather: Speaking of Baranick, his favorite word lately is "active." System after system keeps coming ashore on the West Coast and pushing through the central U.S., creating rain, snow and high winds in the process. Each wave pulls down colder air, though "cold" becomes a relative term the deeper we get into March. Expect those active systems to continue through this week and into the next. We've gone from looking at empty riverbanks to now watching for flooding in a number of areas. Stay tuned by checking the Ag Weather Forum blog. 4. Fertilizers and fertility: DTN Staff Reporter Russ Quinn continues his weekly update of fertilizer prices this week. DTN subscribers can view all our fertilizer information in our Markets sections. Quinn will also recap diesel and fertilizer price conversations from our recent Ag Summit Series session held Feb. 28. Watch for those stories throughout the week. 5. Other key reports coming: In addition to WASDE, this week has a number of key reports coming out that traders will watch closely. Monday is USDA's weekly grain export inspections; Tuesday sees the U.S. wholesale trade report from January; Wednesday we'll get the latest DOE energy inventory numbers and January U.S. trade deficit report; Thursday sees USDA weekly export sales and the U.S. jobless claims numbers and markets and we finish the week taking in the latest U.S. nonfarm payrolls and unemployment reports.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday March 6, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts, but may overlook export sales announcements as there haven't been any since February 17. An outdated report on U.S. factory orders will be out at 9 a.m. CST, followed by USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. Weather A system moved into the Northern Plains on Sunday and produced areas of moderate to heavy snow, which continues on Monday across northern areas. Other areas will be quieter with a significant differenc
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 3, 2023 |
USDA Announces First Permanent Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer The Department of Agriculture Thursday announced L’Tonya Davis as its first Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer. Davis will lead USDA in its ongoing efforts to improve diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and will oversee the implementation of USDA's first-ever DEIA Strategic Plan. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Davis has demonstrated a strong commitment to hiring and developing a workforce that reflects the rich and diverse tapestry of America.” Davis will work closely with executive leaders, employees, and staff experts to advance and sustain committed leadership and employee engagement for a high-performing and innovative USDA workforce. Davis joins USDA after serving in the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Regulatory Affairs. Establishing the first-ever Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer role has been a top priority for Secretary Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh, who is stepping down from the department. Bronaugh was the first Black woman and woman of color to serve as Deputy Secretary at USDA. *********************************************************************************** Iowa to Request Emergency E15 Waiver for 2023 States seeking year-round E-15 may request an emergency waiver for the 2023 summer driving season. The Environment Protection Agency announced a proposal this week to allow year-round E-15 in states that requested the waiver. However, the proposal delays implementation of the rule until 2024. POET Energy spokesperson Joshua Shields says the proposal left unresolved concerns about access to the renewable fuel blend in 2023. Shields adds, “The lack of near-term certainty underscores the urgent need to ensure E15 sales are not interrupted.” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds responded, “While long overdue, I am thrilled that the EPA has approved our multi-state bipartisan RVP waiver request that will pave the way for year-round E15 and bring certainty to the industry.” However, regarding the delay, Reynolds, says, “I look forward to requesting another emergency waiver for this year while at the same time asking the courts to require the Administration to grant our request immediately.” *********************************************************************************** USDA: Mexico a top Market for US Exports New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows that between fiscal years 2018 and 2022, Mexico accounted for nearly 14 percent of all U.S. agricultural exports. With a total value of $28 billion, Mexico is projected to be the United States’ second largest destination for U.S. agricultural exports in fiscal year 2022, and is forecast to reach 15 percent in 2023. On average, Mexico purchased $6.5 billion in U.S. grains and feeds per year from 2018 to 2022, accounting for 18 percent of the largest export commodity group. Demand for grains and feed has been spurred by the expansion of Mexico’s cattle industry and growing consumption of animal products. However, the report does not consider the future impacts of Mexico's decree banning imports of genetically engineered corn. Meanwhile, between 2018 and 2022, Mexico’s imports of livestock, poultry, and dairy products represented an average of 18 percent of total U.S. exports and accounted for $6.3 billion in sales. *********************************************************************************** AEM Issues Position Paper on Future Emission Regulations The Association of Equipment Manufacturers Thursday announced policy recommendations for future rulemakings impacting emissions or future engine technologies. The organization released a position paper entitled "Clean Air and Low Emissions through Next-Gen Nonroad Equipment.” The paper also details the position of AEM and its members that future regulations should support a reasonable transition to cleaner equipment. AEM Vice President of Construction & Utility John Somers says, “The association and its members want to leverage our considerable experience and expertise to inform regulatory efforts happening both now and in the future.” Engine emissions regulations are among the most important and impactful requirements placed on the nonroad equipment sector, affecting everything from performance, research and development, design, safety and cost. The most recent Tier 4 update drove significant equipment changes, including modernized electronic engines and aftertreatment for many power categories. The Position paper and its recommendations are available on the organization’s website, aem.org. *********************************************************************************** Restaurant Industry Expects Growth to Continue in 2023 The National Restaurant Association's 2023 State of the Restaurant Industry report released this week suggests more growth, labor challenges and rising costs for operators. The report predicts the food service industry will reach $997 billion in sales in 2023, driven in part by higher menu prices. Meanwhile, the food service industry workforce is projected to grow by 500,000 jobs, for total industry employment of 15.5 million by the end of 2023. National Restaurant Association CEO Michelle Korsmo says, "Our hiring rate and wage increases are outpacing the overall private sector, and this year our industry will contribute nearly $1 trillion to the economy." For 70 percent of operators, business conditions have settled into or are on the path to their new version of normal. The report finds 92 percent of operators say the cost of food is a significant issue for their restaurant, and 47 percent of operators expect competition to be more intense than last year. *********************************************************************************** Rural Media Group Launches the Cowgirl Channel The Cowgirl Channel made history as the new television network centered around women in western sports officially launched nationwide on DISH Network 269 and Sling TV. Viewers can now watch The Cowgirl Channel 24 hours a day, seven days a week in high definition as part of DISH Network's "America's Top 120 Package" and on SLING's "Heartland Extra Package." The Cowgirl Channel is the latest television network operated by parent company Rural Media Group, which also owns The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV. Five years ago, Rural Media Group launched The Cowboy Channel in response to the demand and growth of western sports. Today, The Cowboy Channel is the official network of ProRodeo, home of the National Finals Rodeo, and broadcasts over 600 rodeo performances on the network's linear feed and streaming app. And now, Rural Media Group has expanded its coverage of western sports even further with the launch of The Cowgirl Channel.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday March 3, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Friday's docket. USDA has not had a daily export sale announced since February 17 and, after Thursday's dismal export sales report, traders may stop checking in at 8 a.m. to see if anything shows up. The latest weather forecasts, however, do remain a topic of interest. Weather A storm system is moving out of the Plains through the Midwest on Friday and into the Northeast Friday night. The system is producing widespread moderate to heavy rain and snow that will mix in from Missouri to Michigan and across the Northeast with time. Strong to severe thunderstorms will press east through the Tennessee Valley and Southeast and through the Mid-Atlantic as well. Winds are increasing around the eastern half of the country and in some areas significantly so, with gusts over 50 mph in the Tennessee Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 2, 2023 |
Lawmakers Introduce Checkoff Reform Legislation Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah leads a bipartisan effort to reform agricultural checkoff programs. Lee was joined by Democrats Cory Booker, Kristen Gillibrand and Elizabeth Warren, and Republican Rand Paul, in reintroducing the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. Checkoffs are mandatory Department of Agriculture fees assessed on a per-unit basis that fund boards designed to promote the commodity as a whole. However, Lee says, "Checkoff programs are filled with waste and often abuse those who are forced to contribute to their coffers." Among other things, the bill would prohibit checkoff programs from contracting with any organization that lobbies on agricultural policy. The legislation met mixed reviews from agriculture groups. R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard says, “The decades old beef checkoff program is ill-suited to meet the needs of today’s cattle farmers and ranchers.” However, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association responded to the legislation, “In 2021 cattle producers overwhelmingly denied a referendum to end the Checkoff.” *********************************************************************************** EPA Proposes Removal of Gasoline Volatility Waiver for Select States The Environmental Protection Agency Wednesday announced a proposed rule paving the way for year-round E-15 as a group of state governors requested. The proposal would allow states to remove the 1-psi volatility waiver for gasoline-ethanol blends containing ten percent ethanol in their states. EPA proposes removing the 1-psi waiver in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. EPA proposes an effective date for all states of April 28, 2024. Biofuel groups, however, criticized the implementation date of the proposal. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor responded, “First and foremost, we need E15 in 2023 so consumers can save money every time they fuel up at the pump.” The National Corn Growers Association supports the governors’ plan and expressed serious concern over the one-year delay in implementation and the market uncertainty the delay creates for E15 in 2023. NCGA President Tom Haag says, “These governors did the right thing, but EPA’s proposal delays this solution.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Calls Again for Immediate Halt to Brazilian Beef Imports The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is calling on Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to immediately half U.S. beef imports from Brazil. The announcement comes as Brazil reported another atypical case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy to the World Animal Organization for Animal Health last week. That report indicated 35 days elapsed between when the case was first identified and the date it was confirmed. NCBA president Todd Wilkinson says, “We have seen Brazil repeatedly fail to meet the 24-hour requirement for reporting of animal diseases.” Wilkinson adds, “We expect USDA to keep the border closed to Brazil until they can demonstrate that they are willing and able to play by the trade rules that govern all other nations.” NCBA sent a letter to USDA, demanding immediate action on this issue. NCBA also supports bipartisan Senate legislation to suspend Brazilian beef imports pending a review of Brazil's standards. *********************************************************************************** Chicken leads U.S. Per Person Availability of Meat The supply of chicken available to eat in the United States continues to outpace beef, according to new food availability data from the USDA’s Economic Research Service. In 2021, 68.1 pounds of chicken per person were available for human consumption, on a boneless, edible basis, compared with 56.2 pounds of beef. The availability of chicken began to increase in the 1940s, overtaking pork availability in 1996 and surpassing beef in 2010 to become the meat most available for U.S. consumption. Since 1980, U.S. chicken availability per person has more than doubled from 32.7 pounds. There were 47.5 pounds of pork available in 2021, after fluctuating between 42.4 and 49.9 pounds per person over the last four decades, according to USDA. Per-person fish and shellfish availability data are available only through 2019, when 19.1 pounds were available per person in the United States, up from the low of eight pounds in 1943. *********************************************************************************** World Pork Expo Set for Milestone 35th Anniversary Celebration The 2023 World Pork Expo returns to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 7 through 9. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the annual event focusing on education, innovation and networking within the pork industry. National Pork Producers Council Board President Terry Wolters says, "We're looking forward to celebrating the event's history while continuing to look ahead at the progress the industry continues to make." The event has grown significantly over the last three and a half decades to become the world's largest pork-specific trade show. Last year, more than 10,000 pork producers and ag professionals representing over 400 companies worldwide participated. This year's event is expected to draw even more industry insiders to the more than 300,000 square feet of exhibit space. Registration information will soon be available on worldpork.org for those who plan to attend the 2023 World Pork Expo, June 7-9. *********************************************************************************** Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Appoints Scott King to Lead U.S. Cattle Business Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Wednesday announced the appointment of Dr. Scott King as the new Executive Director of the U.S. Cattle Business. King says of the appointment, "I am excited to lead the team at Boehringer Ingelheim as we work hand-in-hand with them to prevent and manage conditions that can impact cattle health." King has served as Director of Marketing for the U.S. Cattle Business at Boehringer Ingelheim since 2015. He joined Boehringer Ingelheim in 2014 as Director of Marketing for the U.S. Equine Business and has held various marketing and technical leadership roles at Bayer Animal Health and Land O'Lakes Purina Mills. King is a graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine and practiced veterinary medicine for ten years. Steve Boren, Vice President of Livestock and Equine at Boehringer Ingelheim, adds, "His extensive knowledge of the cattle industry and background in veterinary medicine will be integral to helping uphold Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to whole herd health.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday March 2, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and updates of fourth quarter productivity and the U.S. Drought Monitor. Discussions begin Thursday at the G20 meeting in India, but don't expect an agreement on Ukraine with Russia, China and India in the room. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. after last week's report showed supplies up 22% from a year ago. Weather A storm system is moving out of the southern Rockies and into the Southern Plains on Thursday. Precipitation increased ahead of this system across the Tennessee Valley and Mid-Atlantic Wednesday and will increase from Texas and Oklahoma into these areas again today. Along with the increase in precipitation, a significant severe weather event is expected for later Thursday afternoon and Thursday evening. Strong tornadoes and damaging wind gusts will be likely from northeast Texas to Mississippi and western Tennessee going through the overnight hours.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 1, 2023 |
USDA Receives Equity Commission Interim Recommendations USDA's Equity Commission presented its 2023 Interim Report to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday. The 37-page report and its findings are based on the personal experiences and expertise of its members, their collaborative and in-depth review of USDA's programs and practices, and stakeholder input. Examples of the recommendations include offering new sources of capital to owners of heirs' property and fractionated land, as well as steps to prevent the creation of these types of property to reduce barriers to USDA programs in the future. Arturo S. Rodriguez, co-chair of the Equity Commission and United Farm Workers President Emeritus, says, "The Equity Commission's recommendations address issues that are not new to USDA, but they do require a renewed commitment to improve access to programs and services for all stakeholders Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "We're confident the work of the Equity Commission will bolster our efforts to realize lasting change at USDA and are grateful to the members for taking on this work." *********************************************************************************** Study: Ethanol Cuts Gas Price by 77 Cents per Gallon Adding low-cost ethanol to the nation's gasoline supply improves energy security and saves the average American household more than $750 annually. That's according to a new study by energy economists from the University of California-Berkeley. The analysis concluded that "adding ethanol to gasoline decreases the price paid by U.S. drivers at the pump." The researchers estimate the average discount per gallon to be $0.77 between 2019 and 2022, reaching a total savings of $95.1 billion annually for U.S. consumers. The authors of the study attribute much of this benefit to the Renewable Fuel Standard. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said the study's results come at a critical time for U.S. policymakers. Cooper says, "American consumers would be paying much higher prices at the pump if not for the inclusion of more than 14 billion gallons of low-cost, low-carbon ethanol in our nation's gasoline supply each year," RFA commissioned the new study. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan DAIRY PRIDE Act Reintroduced Senate lawmakers this week reintroduced the DAIRY PRIDE Act of 2023. The bill is titled The Defending Against Imitations and Replacements of Yogurt, milk, and cheese to Promote Regular Intake of Dairy Everyday Act of 2023. The legislation would require non-dairy products made from nuts, seeds, plants, and algae to no longer be mislabeled with dairy terms such as milk, yogurt or cheese. The reintroduction follows last week's Food and Drug Administration proposal allowing nut, oat, soy, and other non-dairy products to use the name "milk." Senate Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin says, "The Biden Administration's guidance that allows non-dairy products to use dairy names is just wrong." Current FDA regulations define dairy products as being from dairy animals. However, last week the FDA released draft guidance allowing plant-based products to continue to use dairy terms despite not containing dairy, nor having the nutritional value of dairy products. *********************************************************************************** USDA Encourages Farmers to Prepare for new Rice Production Program The Department of Agriculture Tuesday previewed plans to provide up to $250 million in assistance to rice farmers. The plans include what steps rice producers can take to be prepared to sign up when the program is released later this spring. The full program and application details will not be available until later this year. But farmers can get prepared to signup, if they qualify for a higher payment limitation. The payment limitation for the program is set by law and is higher if the farmer's average adjusted gross farm income is more than 75 percent of their average adjusted gross income. Rice farmers may visit their local county office to submit the appropriate form and if they qualify for and want to seek the higher payment limit and get part of the paperwork done early. More information will be provided when FSA announces the signup period in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Pandemic Food Away From Home Spending Varied Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows food away from home spending varied during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. In April 2020, spending at full-service restaurants declined 71 percent compared with April 2019. Spending at fast-food restaurants fell 32 percent, and spending at all other food-away-from-home establishments dropped 41 percent over the same period. Full-service restaurants typically offer food and alcohol to seated customers, which was hard to provide during the pandemic. However, the limited physical interaction with customers made it easier for fast-food establishments to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions, and by the second half of 2020, they managed to recover to pre-pandemic spending levels. Despite efforts by many full-service restaurants to expand takeout and delivery services, these outlets took slightly longer to bounce back, and returned to pre-pandemic spending in March 2021. By December 2021, both full-service and limited-service restaurant spending had fully recovered and were each about 10 percent higher than in December 2019. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Accepting Ag Innovation Challenge Applications The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online for the 2024 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. Now in its 10th year, the national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America's farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Farm Bureau is offering $165,000 in startup funds throughout the course of the competition, which will culminate in the top 10 semi-finalists competing in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives at the AFBF Convention in January 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, "We're pleased to recognize startup companies that provide solutions to problems facing rural America and support farmers." Applications remain open through May 12, and the ten semi-finalist teams will be announced September 12. Each semi-finalist team will compete to advance to the final round of four teams. Find more information at fb.org/challenge.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday March 1, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Various manufacturing indices from around the world will be reported overnight, leading to ISM's index of U.S. manufacturing at 9 a.m. CST Wednesday, clues to world economic activity. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and South American crop conditions. Weather A system moving from the Northern Plains into the northern Midwest carries areas of mostly snow on Wednesday. The cold front to this system lies across the southeastern Plains through the Tennessee Valley and will light up with showers later Wednesday and into Wednesday night, some of which may be severe, but also carrying potentially heavy rainfall. Another strong system is moving through the southwest with heavy precipitation that will become another big-impact system for the end of the week east of the Rockies
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 28, 2023 |
NACD Releases 2023 Farm Bill Recommendations The National Association of Conservation Districts released policy recommendations for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. The NACD’s Farm Bill Task Force has convened more than a dozen times to come up with recommendations that were recently approved by the NACD Board of Directors. Their most important priority is for Congress to keep conservation investments provided by the Inflation Reduction Act in the farm bill conservation programs. This request is critical to addressing the high unmet demand for NRCS conservation programs, which only serve about one in every three eligible producers. To support locally-led conservation efforts, the recommendations also push back against one-size-fits-all policies, the addition of national carve-outs within programs, and limitations on conservation practices. “We will continue to work with a wide range of stakeholders and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to develop an inclusive farm bill that provides strong support for conservation,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. *********************************************************************************** FCC Commissioner Speaks Out on the Importance of AM Radio in EVs Nathan Simington, a Commissioner for the Federal Communications Commission, spoke out on the continued importance of AM radio to public safety. He says the issue of continuing to include AM radios in electric vehicles deserves urgent attention. “As electric vehicle adoption increases, we must not leave behind those in rural areas who depend on radio for their news and alerts,” Simington says. He points out that growing up in rural Saskatchewan was like living in a connectivity desert. “Back then, like now, radio was essential for staying connected,” he says. “While some things have changed, not enough has changed to eliminate the need for radio, and the situation is similar in the United States.” He also believes the FCC has a duty to make clear how valuable AM radio is to its listeners. “Further, we should be good stewards of the AM radio band,” he says. “That includes safeguarding AM radio reception.” *********************************************************************************** Veterinarians Help Reignite Push to Strengthen Dog Import Standards The American Veterinary Association-supported Healthy Dog Importation Act would help to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases impacting both animal and human health. The legislation has been reintroduced in both chambers of Congress and would improve importation standards to make sure dogs are in good health when brought into the U.S. “Strengthening our animal health infrastructure by improving the country’s dog import standards is essential to maintaining public health,” says Dr. Lori Teller, AVMA President. “There are over a million dogs imported into the country each year, and we must make sure they’re healthy and not a risk for spreading dangerous diseases.” Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), one of the bill’s sponsors in the Senate, says, “Mitigating the spread of foreign diseases in dogs helps keep domestic and wild animals safe. It will also prevent illnesses and disease outbreaks in people.” Smith also says she’ll continue pushing this bipartisan bill forward. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Says Farmers Adopting Precision Ag at Different Rates Farmers are adopting precision technologies at different rates. A USDA report says the largest farms are adopting auto-steer guidance technology at significantly higher rates. After sorting farms into five equally-sized groups, the agency found that among farmers who were growing corn in 2016, 73 percent of farms in the largest category adopted guidance at the highest rates. The rates were similar for the largest farms growing other commodities in later years: 82 percent of the largest winter wheat farms in 2017, 68 percent of the largest soybean farms in 2018, and 67 percent of the largest cotton farms in 2019. Adoption rates were smaller among the smallest farms in the country: 10 percent of the smallest corn farms in 2016, 11 percent of the smallest soybean farms in 2018, and seven percent of the smallest winter wheat farms in 2017. However, fifty percent of the smallest cotton farms have adopted the technology. *********************************************************************************** USDA Looking to Expand Conservation Assistance The USDA is seeking applications for projects that will improve its outreach to underserved producers and underserved communities. The agency is looking to expand opportunities to participate in conservation programs and services and opportunities for students to pursue careers in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering up to $70 million in cooperative agreements with entities for two-year projects that encourage participation in NRCS programs, especially in underserved communities and among urban and small-scale producers. “USDA is committed to removing barriers for underserved producers to all USDA services,” says NRCS Chief Terry Cosby. “The projects funded through this opportunity will better ensure these producers receive the benefits our conservation programs deliver.” The projects should promote the benefits of the NRCS programs through education or demonstrations, develop community conservation partnerships that engage underserved producers, and meet other requirements too. For more information, go to grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Drop Week-to-Week The USDA says corn export sales for the week ending on February 16 dropped while wheat and bean sales rose. Corn sales that week hit 823,200 metric tons, 20 percent lower than the previous week and 30 percent under the previous four-week average. Japan was the biggest buyer at 312,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico and Taiwan. The total would have been higher, but China and Italy both canceled shipments. Exports for the week rose three percent to 687,400 tons. Wheat sales came in at 338,800 metric tons, 62 percent higher than the previous week and 39 percent above the four-week average. Exports hit 338,000 metric tons, a 32 percent drop. Soybean sales rose 20 percent over the prior week at almost 545,000 metric tons, 18 percent below the four-week average. China was the top buyer at 176,200 metric tons. Exports for the week dropped six percent to 1.74 million metric tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 28, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets DTN's Ag Summit Series begins at 8:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, followed by the Conference Board's index of U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA has an export sale to announce, something not seen for the past 10 days. Weather A storm system continues to move through the Northeast with precipitation but the next in the series of storms for the week will exit the Rockies and move through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest Tuesday and Tuesday night with scattered snow showers. A band of snow should set up along the North Dakota-South Dakota border which may be heavier. Breezy winds continue in West Texas, which continue to rob the region of any topsoil moisture.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 27, 2023 |
U.S. Imposes Higher Tariffs on Russian Imports The White House announced actions intended to hold Russia accountable for invading Ukraine. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says as part of that effort, President Biden announced additional tariff increases on a variety of goods from Russia worth approximately $2.8 billion. The president raised tariffs on most metal and metal products, doubling them from 35 to 70 percent and targeting a crucial revenue-generating sector of the Russian economy. He also increased tariffs on additional Russian products to 35 percent, including chemicals and minerals. These moves are complemented by tariff increases on Russian aluminum. “These actions are carefully calibrated to put economic pressure on Russia while minimizing costs to U.S. consumers,” says Tai. “As the president recently said in Poland, the United States and our Allies and partners will hold accountable those who are responsible for the war.” She also says those actions demonstrate the U.S. resolve in doing precisely that. *********************************************************************************** Food-at-Home Price to Increase Almost Nine Percent USDA’s Economic Research Service publishes its price forecasts in the monthly Food Price Outlook report. The FPO forecasts food-at-home prices will increase by 8.6 percent in 2023, with a prediction interval of 5.6 to 11 percent. Forecasts now include a midpoint and a prediction interval to represent the expected price change and range of likely prices. The prediction intervals vary. They begin wider due to uncertainty at the start of the year and then narrow as forecasts incorporate more months of observed data. In 2023, fresh fruit prices are predicted to experience little change at 0.1 percent with a prediction interval of -5.6 to 6.4 percent. Overall, food prices are expected to grow more slowly in 2023 than they did in 2022 but remain above historical average rates. Food-at-home prices grew 11.4 percent in 2022, the largest annual increase since 1974, compared with a historical average increase of 2.5 percent from 2003-2022. *********************************************************************************** Egg Prices are Projected to Drop 30 Percent This Year The price of eggs is projected to fall dramatically after reaching record-high levels over several months. The USDA says those prices should fall back to typical levels this year, provided the U.S. doesn’t see a rebound in highly pathogenic avian influenza cases in 2023. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the price of eggs in January was $4.80 a dozen, 150 percent higher than in January of last year. USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer told the Ag Outlook Forum attendees that wholesale egg prices will drop almost 27 percent in 2023. The agency says the high price of eggs is driven by the historic level of avian flu outbreaks that have killed more than 58 million backyard and commercial chickens and turkeys since last February. The agency says egg production will increase four percent this year to 9.4 billion dozen as the number of egg-laying chickens will also rebound from 2022. *********************************************************************************** Report Says Farm Bill Should Prioritize Ag Research A report produced by the Farm Journal Foundation and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs says the U.S. needs to increase support for agricultural research and development in the next farm bill. The support would help make sure that farmers can keep feeding the world despite the challenges faced by agriculture. New innovations generated from agricultural research at land-grant universities and other public sector institutions can help increase farm productivity and economic growth. Despite that, public investment in agricultural R and D has declined in recent years. The report says the 2023 farm bill is an opportunity to increase funding for agricultural R and D and ensure the U.S. is prepared for the challenges ahead. The USDA’s Economic Research Service says ag research provides one of the highest returns of any public research investment, generating $20 on average for every $1 spent. Public investment is needed to complement private-sector spending. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Surges The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output jumped to the highest level in more than two months while inventories again increased during the week ending on February 17. The EIA report says production rose to an average of 1.029 million barrels a day. That’s up from 1.014 million barrels, on average, during the previous week and is the highest output since December 16. The Midwest saw output increase to an average of 984,000 barrels a day, up from 965,000 barrels during the previous week. That was where all the gains took place. Production in the West Coast and East Coast regions was unchanged from the prior week. Production in the Rocky Mountain and Gulf Coast regions fell an average of 9,000 and 21,000 barrels a day, respectively. Ethanol stockpiles were up again, rising to 25.58 million barrels, up from 25.33 million during the prior week, and the highest level since April 1, 2022. *********************************************************************************** Give FFA Day Raises Record Amount of Support The National FFA Organization was amazed at the amount of support shown during the National Give FFA Day event. They were excited to announce that with the generous support of the FFA community, they helped raise a record-breaking amount of money. A total of 721,506 dollars will go toward benefitting National FFA and 51 FFA associations. “To those who donated on Give FFA Day, we are so grateful for your support,” the organization said in a release. “Your generosity will impact FFA members and teachers across the country.” They also say because the support was so generous, FFA is able to build members’ leadership skills, instill a passion for service, and prepare the next generation for agriculture careers. “Thank you to everyone who stepped up to make the day such a rousing success,” the organization said. For those who didn’t get the chance, go to ffa.org to continue supporting the organization.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 27, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and any news. A report on U.S. durable goods orders for January is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by pending home sales at 9 a.m. and USDA's weekly grain inspections at 10 a.m. Weather A storm system going through the Midwest on Monday morning already produced a round of significant severe weather across the Central and Southern Plains on Sunday, with another round possible from Illinois to Ohio on Monday. In addition, colder temperatures across the northern Midwest and Northeast will create a mix of wintry weather Monday into Monday night, and breezy winds have developed for the middle of the country. Several additional storm systems are expected this week with myriad impacts.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 24, 2023 |
USDA Releases Lower Ag Export Forecast for 2023 American agricultural exports in fiscal year 2023 are projected at $184.5 billion, down $5.5 billion from the November forecast. The export forecasts for all major commodity groups are down, with the largest drops projected for corn, sorghum, and soybeans. Corn exports are forecast $1.9 billion lower to $16.6 billion on lower volume. Soybean exports are projected to drop by $800 million to $32 billion on lower U.S. supplies and increased Brazilian competition. Livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are forecast to decrease by $900 million to $40.5 billion as declines in beef, poultry, and dairy exports offset increases in pork exports. U.S. cotton exports are forecast down $100 million to $5.9 billion on lower volumes. Ethanol exports are forecast at $3.6 billion, down $600 million on lower volumes and a reduced demand outlook. China is forecast to remain the largest market for U.S. agricultural exports at $34 billion, unchanged from November. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Transition to Cage-Free Eggs Comes With Problems A new study funded in part by United Egg Producers and the United Egg Association shows the transition to cage-free eggs will increase costs and reduce profits. It also shows that producers may not be able to make the 2026 deadline. The study says, “Conversion from conventional to cage-free housing is costly for both egg producers and final consumers.” There remains a lot of uncertainty about the extent to which egg producers will be willing and able to continue transitioning to cage-free housing at a rate commensurate with retailers’ cage-free pledges. Roughly 55 percent of consumers surveyed for the study are motivated by price and don’t discriminate between cage and cage-free eggs. Producers surveyed also reveal higher costs and labor requirements associated with cage-free production. Producers are also experiencing challenges in getting financing to convert or build cage-free facilities without longer-term commitments from retailers, particularly as interest rates continue climbing higher. *********************************************************************************** Cyberattack Temporarily Shuts Down Dole Production Food giant Dole says it recently was hit by a cyberattack that was determined to be ransomware. Industrial Cyber says the attack disrupted the company’s operations and resulted in the temporary shutdown of production plants. It temporarily halted the company’s food shipments to stores. A company news release says upon learning of the incident, Dole moved quickly to contain the threat and engaged leading third-party cybersecurity experts who’ve been working with Dole’s internal teams to secure the company’s systems. An internal memo on February 10 told employees that “Dole Food Company is in the midst of a cyber-attack and has subsequently shut down our systems throughout North America.” Two grocery stores in Texas and Mexico contacted by CNN said they hadn’t been able to stock Dole salad kits on their shelves for days. Dole didn’t go into detail about the ransomware hackers’ attack methods but did say the company contacted law enforcement. *********************************************************************************** Mad Cow Disease Found in Brazil Brazil’s agriculture and livestock ministry says beef exports to China are temporarily on hold after a case of mad cow disease was confirmed in one of the northern states called Para. Reuters says the suspension is part of an animal health agreement made between the two countries and likely won’t last long. However, it is a hit to the bottom line for the country’s farmers as China is the top destination for Brazil’s beef exports. Minister Carlos Favaro says, “All measures are being taken immediately at each stage of the investigation, and the matter is being handled with total transparency to guarantee Brazilian and global consumers the recognized quality of our meat.” The ag ministry also says, “The symptomology indicates that it is the atypical form of the disease, which appears spontaneously in nature, causing no risk of dissemination to the herd and human beings.” Para’s agricultural defense agency confirmed the disease case. *********************************************************************************** 2022 Annual Milk Production up 0.1 Percent From 2021 The annual production of milk in the United States during 2022 was 226 billion pounds, 0.1 percent above 2021. Revisions to 2021 production increased the annual total to 35 million pounds. Revised 2022 production was down 158 million pounds from the previous USDA publication. Annual total milk production has increased 12.5 percent since 2013. The average number of milk cows on farms in the United States during 2022 was 9.4 million head, 0.5 percent lower than last year. The average number of milk cows was revised down 2,000 head for 2022. The average annual number of milk cows has increased by 1.9 percent from 2013. In the meantime, milk production in the 24 major dairy-producing states totaled 18.5 billion pounds in January, 1.5 percent higher than in January 2022. Production per cow averaged 2,069 pounds for January, 18 pounds above January 2022. The number of milk cows on farms was 8.93 million head. *********************************************************************************** Biggest U.S. Farms Obtaining More Land USDA’s annual Farms and Land in Farms Report shows the country’s largest farms with sales of $1 million or more operate nearly 26 percent of U.S. farmlands. The agency also says there were 2.003 million farms in the nation during 2022, a drop of 0.5 percentage points from 2012. Around 88,660 farms, or 3.9 percent of the total, had sales of at least $1 million. Ten years ago, three percent of farms made that category. The average size of the largest farms, by sales, was 2,927 acres or 4.6 square miles in 2022. In 2012, farms with $1 million in sales were an average of 2,481 acres in size. USDA says the average farm size for 2022 was 446 acres, up from 445 acres in 2021. The size of farms in the $1 million or more sales class increased. Farms in every other sales class either decreased or remained the same size.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 24, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time the Personal Consumption Expenditure index for January and U.S. personal income and consumer spending data will also be out, followed by U.S. new home sales for January and the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for February at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly cattle on-feed and cold storage reports are due out at 2 p.m. Weather There may be some showers floating around the Plains, Midwest, and Delta on Friday, but most areas will stay dry. Very cold air that has settled into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies continues Friday before moderating. The next storm system is moving through California with heavy precipitation and strong winds. This system will move through the Southwest over the next couple of days.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 23, 2023 |
FACA Announces 2023 Farm Bill Priorities The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance Wednesday released policy recommendations for the 2023 farm bill. Further reducing emissions throughout agricultural and forestry supply chains will require a comprehensive effort involving financial and technical assistance, research investments, proactive response to innovation, public-private partnerships and a commitment to equitable opportunities for all producers. FACA's recommendations, developed by the 23-member steering committee, are divided into six categories: Conservation, risk management and credit, energy, food waste, forestry, livestock and dairy, and research, extension and innovation. FACA's past recommendations have provided guidance to members of Congress and administration officials and have been credited with shaping federal laws and programs. President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Zippy Duvall, says, "We look forward to working with Congress to strengthen Title I programs, improve risk management tools, and utilize these FACA recommendations to advance our sustainability mission in a manner that respects farmers and ranchers as partners." *********************************************************************************** FDA Announces Draft Guidance for Plant-Based Dairy Imitators The Food and Drug Administration Wednesday announced draft recommendations on the naming of plant-based foods that are marketed and sold as alternatives to milk. The guidance recommends that an alternative milk product that includes the term milk and has a nutrient composition different than milk, include a voluntary nutrient statement that conveys how the product compares with milk. Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, says the announcement "is a step toward labeling integrity for consumers of dairy products." Though Mulhern says the guidance "falls short of ending the decades-old problem of misleading plant-based labeling using dairy terminology." Senate Democrat Tammy Baldwin and Idaho Republican Jim Risch, in a joint statement, say, "This misguided rule will hurt America's dairy farmers and our rural communities." Baldwin and Risch announced their intention to reintroduce the DAIRY PRIDE Act, which would require the FDA to issue guidance for nationwide enforcement of mislabeled plant-based products within 90 of implementation. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Announces Caskey as CEO The National Corn Growers Association Wednesday announced Neil Caskey as its new CEO. Caskey, who serves as NCGA's vice president of communications, will begin the role of CEO Monday, February 27. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "Neil's experience in agriculture is extensive, and he is well known as someone who gets the job done well." Caskey has served as NCGA's vice president of communications and industry relations for over four years and spent over a decade promoting agricultural issues as executive vice president at OBP Agency. His professional background also includes work for the American Soybean Association and as a legislative aide for a U.S. member of Congress. Caskey says, "It is quite an honor to lead an organization that I care so much about." Caskey holds a B.A. in political science from the University of Missouri-Columbia and an MBA from Webster University. Former CEO, Jon Doggett, left NCGA at the end of last year. *********************************************************************************** Consumers Expect to Pay More for Groceries A new survey finds consumers expect to pay more for groceries this year. Progressive Grocer reports the 2023 KPMG Winter Consumer Pulse Survey shows consumers anticipate increased prices, but are looking for ways to save money. The Survey shows consumers expect a 15 percent increase in grocery spending this year. Meanwhile, 56 percent of consumers plan to spend more on groceries this year, while nine percent plan to spend less. Consumers cite inflation, an increased tendency to eat at home, larger household sizes and dietary changes as reasons for spending changes. KMPG research also finds 38 percent of consumers plan to pay more for restaurant meals this year, a two percent increase from last year. However, 35 percent of consumers say they plan to spend less on purchases made online this year, yet nearly half of the respondents reported an average increase in household income of 15 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces $59 Million Investment in Meat Processing Capacity The Department of Agriculture this week announced a $59 million investment to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity. The funding also seeks to expand market opportunities for farmers and create jobs in rural areas. The investment is part of the Biden administration's Action Plan for a Fairer, More Competitive, and More Resilient Meat and Poultry Supply Chain. The action plan dedicates resources to expand independent processing capacity. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "USDA will continue to work tirelessly to give farmers and ranchers a fair chance to compete in the marketplace, which in turn helps lower food costs for the American people." USDA is providing the $59 million in grants to five independent processors under the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. The funding will help build new processing plants, create hundreds of jobs, give local producers and entrepreneurs more options and business opportunities, and give consumers more options at the grocery store. *********************************************************************************** AFA Acquires Magnetic Ag Digital Newsletter Agriculture Future of America has acquired Magnetic Ag - an agriculture-focused digital newsletter distributed through email twice weekly - from Magnetic Ag founder and AFA alumnus, Travis Martin. Since its inception in 2020, Magnetic has grown to serve more than 12,000 active subscribers including agricultural business, technology and policy professionals, alongside agriculture educators, students and farmers. Magnetic is aimed at making agriculture industry news digestible by consolidating news from a variety of industry media into each newsletter edition, making the newsletter a hub for the latest agriculture news. With a casual and catchy writing style, Magnetic shares agricultural business, policy, technology and market news. AFA President and CEO Mark Stewart says, "Adding Magnetic to AFA's offerings helps us further serve the industry by developing transformational leaders who find themselves at various stages of their careers." AFA aims to double readership in the coming year by making the newsletter more accessible to its partners and students.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 23, 2023 |
USDA Forecasts Bigger Crops, Lower Prices for 2023-24 Crops ARLINGTON, Va. (DTN) -- U.S. farmers are forecast to plant 91 million acres of corn, up 2.4 million acres from last year, and produce a 15-billion-bushel crop while soybean acres will hold pat at 87.5 million acres and produce 4.5 billion bushels, according to USDA's initial Outlook on the 2023-24 crops. USDA also forecasts lower corn and soybean prices as production increases as well. USDA released its Grain and Oilseeds Outlook at the opening of its annual Outlook Forum on Thursday in Arlington, Va. CORN USDA forecasts higher corn production for the 2023-24 crop year with 91 million acres planted and a record yield of 181.5 bushels per acre, producing a projected 15.09-billion-bushel crop, about 10% larger than a year ago. If realized, it would be the second-largest crop on record behind the 2016-17 crop year. The higher production is expected to bring down the average farmgate price $1.10 a bushel from last year to $5.60 a bushel. Citing the 181.5 bpa, USDA said the record yield forecast is based on a "weather-adjusted trend assuming normal planting progress and summer growing season weather." Total corn supplies are forecast at 16.38 billion bushels, up about 8% from the 2022-23 crop. Looking at use, feed, seed and industrial use is unchanged at 6.69 billion bushels. Corn use for ethanol is projected at 5.25 billion bushels, "based on expectations of flat motor gasoline consumption." Feed and residual use is projected to rise 6% to 5.6 billion bushels due to higher corn production and expected lower prices during the year. Exports are expected to rise 275 million bushels to 2.2 billion bushels due to "reduced exportable supplies in Ukraine," and modest global trade growth. Ending stocks are forecast to rise 620 million bushels to 1.887 billion bushels, resulting in a stocks-to-use ratio of 13%. SOYBEANS While planted acreage would remain unchanged at 87.5 million acres, USDA forecasts yields will rise 2.5 bushels per acre to 52 bpa. That would boost production 5% to 4.5 billion bushels, "assuming normal growing-season weather." The average farmgate price for soybeans is projected at $12.90 a bushel, down $1.40 a bushel from the 2022-23 crop. Domestic soybean crush is projected to rise to a record 2.31 billion bushels, "supported by meal demand growth and high prices for biofuel feedstocks in the United States." Soybean oil for biofuels is expected to grow 8% to 12.5 billion pounds in 2023-24. USDA cited the driving increase for soybean oil in biofuels that has pushed up U.S. prices and driven down exports. "This trend is expected to continue under current state mandates and the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed rule for 2023 through 2025," citing the EPA Renewable Fuels Standard rules. Soybean exports for 2023-24 are forecast at 2.03 billion bushels, up 35 million bushels from the 2022-23 crop year. With harvest underway in Brazil, USDA cites that South American supplies will be higher this year as the U.S. export season gets underway. "With another large South American harvest expected in early 2024, export competition will likely limit potential gains in U.S. exports in the second half of the marketing year." Soybean ending stocks for 2023-24 are projected at 290 million bushels, up 65 million bushels from the 2023-24 forecast. WHEAT U.S. wheat production is projected to increase 14% for 2023-24 to 1.887 billion bushels on both higher acreage and yield. Total wheat planted acre is projected at 49.5 million acres, up nearly 3.8 million acres from the 2022-23 crop, and the highest since 2016-17. The average farmgate price for wheat is forecast at $8.50 a bushel, down 50 cents a bushel from the 2022-23 crop. The all-wheat yield is projected to increase 6% to 49.2 bpa. Total wheat supply will hit 2.575 billion bushels, up 107 million bushels from last year's crop. Total domestic use is forecast at 1.142 billion bushels, up 17 million bushels. Exports are forecast at 825 million bushels, up 75 million bushels from 2022-23. That puts total use at 1.967 billion bushels, up 67 million bushels from a year ago. All-wheat ending stocks will come in at 608 million bushels, up 40 million bushels from a year ago.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 23, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims, an update of fourth-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all set for 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by energy inventories at 10 a.m. Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather A long-duration winter storm is winding down Thursday, though moderate snow will still occur across portions of the northern Midwest into the Northeast. Winds remain blustery in some areas where the snow fell, causing some blowing and drifting of the snow along with occasional blizzard conditions. Very cold temperatures have settled in briefly across portions of the Plains and Upper Midwest through Friday before moderating.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 22, 2023 |
USDA: Ethanol Production Rebounds from Pandemic Lows Production and consumption of ethanol as a transportation fuel grew significantly over the last three decades in the United States before plateauing in recent years. The ethanol share of finished motor gasoline has moved concurrently with consumption, leveling off near ten percent in 2022. Steps taken in the spring of 2020 to combat the spread of COVID-19, such as increased remote work and school, and other social distancing efforts, resulted in sharp declines in a variety of ethanol market metrics. For example, from 2017–19, U.S. ethanol production averaged 1.33 billion gallons per month, while consumption averaged 1.18 billion gallons per month. During the pandemic lows, these values fell by 46 percent and nearly 40 percent, respectively, causing the ethanol share of finished motor gasoline to decline to nine percent. More recently, estimates for all three figures have largely recovered and leveled off. However, adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles is expected to put downward pressure on gasoline consumption and dampen prospects for renewed growth in fuel ethanol demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests More than $48.6 Million to Combat Climate Change The Department of Agriculture will invest more than $48.6 million this year through the Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership. The projects mitigate wildfire risk, improve water quality, restore forest ecosystems, and ultimately contribute to USDA’s efforts to combat climate change. This year, the Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service will invest in projects. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says, “The need for cross-boundary wildfire risk reduction work as part of our Wildfire Crisis Strategy is more urgent than ever.” The partnership enables the Forest Service and NRCS to collaborate with agricultural producers and forest landowners to invest in conservation and restoration at a large enough scale to make a difference. Working in partnership, and at this scale, helps reduce wildfire threats to communities and critical infrastructure, protect water quality and supply, and improve wildlife habitat for at-risk species. USDA is investing $31.2 million in 25 existing projects and more than $17 million in 14 new projects. *********************************************************************************** Ocean Freight Rates Revert to Pandemic Lows Since the highs of 2021, freight prices have dropped to lows not seen since June 2020, according to a recent analysis by U.S. Wheat Associates. Coupled with a recent break in wheat prices, decreased ocean freight costs have helped turn the tides back in the importers' favor. The Baltic Index price chart of dry bulk freight rates shows the impact on rates from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On February 6, the Baltic Dry Index hit 621, a level not seen since June 2020. The index has fallen 88 percent from its peak in October 2021. In recent years, dry bulk freight and Chinese economic growth have become interconnected. Vessel supply and demand, port congestion, oil prices, and the ongoing supply chain disruptions will continue to impact the market as economies normalize post-COVID. However, China remains in the driver's seat of global freight, according to U.S. Wheat Associates. The resilience of the Chinese economy will be put to the test as economic activity increases post-COVID. *********************************************************************************** Growth in Organic Market Slowing The organic market has seen continued growth in retail sales in the past decade. However, the pace of growth has slowed, according to USD’s Economic Research Service. U.S. organic retail sales increased by an average of eight percent per year and surpassed $53 billion in 2020. In 2021, sales were $52 billion, which was a six percent annual decline when adjusted for inflation, but a slight increase when not inflation-adjusted. Additionally, the number of certified organic acres operated increased gradually from 3.6 million in 2011 to 4.9 million acres in 2021. The number of certified farms with operating organic acres in the United States nearly doubled over the past decade to 17,400 from about 8,900. Between 2019 and 2021, the number of certified organic farms in the United States increased five percent, while total organic land decreased by 11 percent, driven by a 36 percent decrease in pasture and rangeland. *********************************************************************************** FMI Encourages FDA to Refine Healthy Definition The Food Industry Association recently submitted comments to the Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's proposed rule to update the definition of the term "healthy." The FDA is seeking the update when the term is used as a nutrient content claim in labeling. FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher says. "We are concerned the proposal is too restrictive in scope and could inadvertently lead to consumers avoiding certain foods that are otherwise part of a healthy eating pattern." The comments submitted to FDA explain some FMI members found that their portfolios have gone from 80-95 percent “healthy”-eligible foods, to between three and seven percent healthy eligible foods under the proposed rule. FMI predicts that when taking into account the entire food supply, fewer than five percent of products would qualify. Hatcher adds, “A definition that only allows an exceedingly small number of foods to bear a healthy claim would be counter-productive to the agency’s goal of improving public health.” *********************************************************************************** Swine Health Center Develops Standard Outbreak Investigation Instrument The Swine Health Information Center this week announced a standardized outbreak investigation instrument. The new instrument is available for download and use from the SHIC website, and a web-based version will be launched this spring. The downloadable version is a fillable form that, upon completion, could be submitted to a program administrator at Iowa State University, the developer of the tool. Or the form could be used for farm/system outbreak investigations without submitting, but every submission will strengthen the confidential database that can help researchers find industry trends. The new, standardized outbreak investigation instrument was built from an existing investigation tool. Expert input and conversation led to changing some terms and creating additions. Dr. Derald Holtkamp of Iowa State University led the development of the instrument. Holtkamp says, “The reason for doing this remains trying to be better prepared to respond to the introduction of transboundary disease.” Visit swinehealth.org to learn more.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 22, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Minutes from the Fed's most recent Open Market Committee meeting will be released at 1 p.m. Wednesday, the only significant report on the docket. Due to this week's four-day schedule, the Energy Department's weekly inventory report is pushed to Thursday. Traders will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and any outside news, especially as the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches. Weather A long-duration winter storm event continues to produce widespread impacts for much of the country on Wednesday. Showers and thunderstorms are developing across the southeastern Plains through the Midwest, some of which may be severe. A narrow band of heavier snow continues in Wisconsin and Michigan this morning but will broaden out during the day, with a risk of freezing rain from Iowa to southern Michigan. The larger part of the storm is in the Rockies and will increase the snowfall across the Northern Plains into the Upper Midwest throughout today and tonight, leading to heavy snowfall amounts. Winds with the system are increasing and will be strong enough to produce blizzard conditions where the heavy snow falls.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 21, 2023 |
Key Happenings the Newsroom is Tracking for the Week of Feb. 19-25 OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Feb. 19. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. USDA Outlook Conference: The annual USDA Ag Outlook Forum is Feb. 23-24. The event is packed with sessions covering major issues in the ag economy, capped by USDA's official economic prognostications early Friday morning. 2. Early week winter waves: Several storm systems will trek across the U.S. this week. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick says the next round begins in the Pacific Northwest Monday night into Tuesday. It is expected to head into the Great Lakes through Tuesday and into Wednesday, bringing snow to the Northern Plains and Great Lakes areas. 3. Dark anniversary: Feb. 24 is, of course, the first anniversary of Russians invasion into Ukraine; the ongoing war continues to influence the global economy, particularly global food security. Look for both reflections on that anniversary mark, as well as the potential real-time market influences from additional fighting in Ukraine. 4. Latest cattle numbers: USDA will release its latest Cattle on Feed report Friday, and the market will watch closely for continued signs of tight supplies. Watch for our preview analysis on Feb. 23. 5. Presidential thoughts: Trading markets are closed today, Feb. 20, as is the DTN newsroom, to mark the President's Day holiday. This year, as we remember the birthday of George Washington as well as Abraham Lincoln and others, many thoughts are with our 39th president, James Earl Carter Jr. The former peanut farmer from Plains, Georgia, who at 98 is the longest-lived U.S. president, entered into hospice care Feb. 18.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 21, 2023 |
Mexican Ban on Some Biotech Corn Underway Last week, Mexican officials issued a decree calling for a ban on imports of some biotech corn used for certain purposes. That ban began last Friday. The Mexican government also decreed it would continue to allow imports of biotech corn used as animal feed while exploring substitutes. The National Corn Growers Association expressed serious concerns with the accelerated timeline, noting that the administration has been more than patient with Mexico. “Our U.S. officials are seeking to enforce a rules-based trading system and stand up for farmers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). “The integrity of the USMCA, signed by Mexican President Obrador himself, is at stake.” He also says singling out corn, the number one U.S. ag export to Mexico, and hastening an import ban on numerous food-grade uses makes USMCA a dead letter unless it’s enforced. NCGA says Mexico appears to be doubling down on its original intended ban in 2024. *********************************************************************************** EPA Proposes New Rule for Pesticide Exposure Protection The Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed rule that would improve and modernize the pesticide Application Exclusion Zone requirements. Those requirements are part of the 2015 Agricultural Worker Protection Standard, and the agency is proposing to reinstate several provisions from that standard. Among the changes, the revised standard includes a new provision requiring agricultural employers to keep workers and all others out of an area called the Application Exclusion Zone. The AEZ is an area surrounding an ongoing pesticide application. A previous rule change limited the AEZ to 25 feet in 2020. However, the proposed rule will change that to 100 feet for fine sprays. The distances will stay at 25 feet for medium or larger sprays when sprayed from a height greater than 12 inches from the soil surface. The rule change would also apply the AEZ beyond an establishment’s boundaries, and when individuals are within easements on a producer’s land. *********************************************************************************** EPA Changes Some Dicamba Cutoff Dates for This Spring The Environmental Protection Agency proposed new restrictions on using over-the-top dicamba herbicides in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, and South Dakota. The label changes say no spraying on dicamba-tolerant soybeans in Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana after June 12 or the V4 growth stage, whichever comes first. No spraying on DT cotton in Iowa, Illinois, or Indiana after June 12 or first square, whichever happens first. No spraying on DT crops after June 20 in South Dakota. The EPA also said Minnesota’s label requirements remain the same as in 2022. The reaction to the change has not been positive in the soybean industry. Aaron Hager, a University of Illinois weed scientist, told DTN the timing couldn’t have been worse for soybean growers who intend to plant certain varieties. “Most or all seed decisions have been made, and now we have to contend with new cutoffs in the largest soybean states in the U.S.,” he says. *********************************************************************************** State Attorneys General File Lawsuit Over WOTUS Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen (kuh-NOOD-sen) and attorneys general from 23 other states filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. The group says the EPA’s WOTUS rule “goes beyond the power Congress delegated in the Clean Water Act, raises serious constitutional concerns, and runs roughshod over the Administrative Procedures Act.” Knudsen says, “The administration’s water rule limits the use of land and violates the law and U.S. Constitution. The EPA greatly overstepped its authority by trying to claim jurisdiction over land and water not connected to any navigable water.” The attorneys general say they’re fighting to protect farm and ranching operations, mining and energy workers, and infrastructure and housing projects across Montana and the entire country that will be harmed if this overreaching and unconstitutional rule takes effect. Montana and the other states will motion for a preliminary injunction to stop the rule while it’s under litigation. *********************************************************************************** The Fertilizer Institute Releases Sustainability Report The Fertilizer Institute released new data highlighting industry improvements in sustainability performance in key priority areas, including workforce safety, energy, the environment, and innovation. “The industry is continuously working towards more sustainable operations, including efforts to decarbonize and mitigate environmental impacts,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. Report highlights include survey participants investing an average of more than $1 billion every year in capital investments to help the industry meet sustainability goals. In 2021, the industry captured 31 percent of all CO2 generated per ton of nutrient produced, an increase of 368 percent over emissions captured in 2013. To reduce the industry’s energy footprint, 39 percent of all energy consumed is generated using waste heat rather than pulling from the electrical grid. Nitrogen producers recycled enough water to fill 1.6 million Olympic-sized swimming pools. “Each step of the supply chain is focused on doing more with fewer resources,” Rosenbusch adds. *********************************************************************************** Growth in Farmland Values Continues Growth in farm real estate values remained strong but showed some signs of easing alongside higher interest rates. The Kansas City Federal Reserve says the average interest rates on farm loans increased from record lows at the beginning of last year to decade highs by December of 2022. Despite the rapid rise in rates, the value of farmland continued to increase, but at a more tempered pace than earlier in the year. The growth in farmland values has softened most for lower-priced land and in states most heavily affected by drought. Looking ahead, a majority of bankers expect higher interest rates to have a negative effect on farm real estate, and some anticipate a decline in values. Farm finances and credit conditions were supported by strong commodity prices in 2022, and the outlook for 2023 remained positive despite some persistent risks. Higher expenses and adverse weather continue to be concerning.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 21, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts and news. A report on U.S. existing home sales in January is due out at 9 a.m. CST, followed by USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. Weather A conglomeration of upper-level disturbances are combining to make for a long-duration winter storm across the country this week. The lead piece will create some moderate to heavy snow for the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest Tuesday while a piece in the Southwest moves into the Plains overnight with increasing showers and thunderstorms. Winds are on the increase Tuesday, especially in the southwestern Plains where they may gust over 50 mph and be even stronger Wednesday. Meanwhile, the West continues to be pummeled by heavy precipitation and strong winds as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 17, 2023 |
Partnership to Protect the U.S. from African Swine Fever A new partnership was put in place at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Winter Policy Conference. NASDA, the USDA, the National Pork Board, and the National Pork Producers Council are working together to enhance coordination and preparedness to prevent and protect the United States from African swine fever. “When you bring together state, federal, and industry groups with different strengths to take on challenges, you see a united force of resilience on all fronts,” says NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. “This collaboration will lead to better response to outbreaks and better animal health and welfare across the country.” African swine fever hasn’t currently crossed into the U.S. but being prepared to respond and coordinate prevention methods at all levels better ensures the protection of America’s swine herds. “We all play an important role in keeping American agriculture safe and working together enhances our efforts,” says NPPC President Terry Wolters. *********************************************************************************** Positive Reaction to Torres Small Nomination Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow is pleased with the nomination of Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small to be the new Deputy Secretary of Agriculture at USDA. “As Undersecretary of Rural Development, she gave a voice to the 60 million people who call rural America their home,” she says. “I’ve been impressed with her commitment to addressing challenges in our food supply chain, fighting the climate crisis, and creating good paying jobs in rural America.” The American Farm Bureau Federation also congratulated Torres Small on her nomination. “Her experience with rural America and her time on the House Agriculture Committee give her important perspectives to address the issues facing America’s farmers and ranchers,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. He also says the organization and its members look forward to working with her to ensure USDA continues to support America’s farmers and their mission to grow safe, affordable food for families across the nation. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Farm Exports to Drop by 12 Percent Over Three Years The USDA projected America’s food and agricultural exports will drop by 12 percent through fiscal year 2026. The erosion will be caused by a global economic slowdown, inflation, higher interest rates, and the strong U.S. dollar. Overall economic conditions are projected to slow U.S. exports quicker than imports, leading to a trade deficit. USDA projections show that exports will drop across the board, but grains and soybeans will get hit the hardest. Reduced export volumes will also mean lower commodity prices. But 2027 is expected to show a rebound in exports. Farm exports were forecast at $190 billion this year, dropping to $166.3 billion in 2026, and then rising to $182.2 billion by 2032, the last year of the ten-year baseline. Imports will also slow down but are expected to recover by 2032. Food and ag imports were forecast at $199.1 billion this year and grow to $200 billion by 2032. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $63 Million in High-Speed Internet for Rural Americans Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is investing $63 million to bring high-speed internet access to people living and working in rural areas of Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, and Mississippi. “Investing in high-speed internet is a fundamental part of our partnership with rural communities,” he says. “Connecting rural Americans with reliable internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country.” The $63 million in grants comes from the third round of funding under the ReConnect Program, in which USDA has invested a total of $1.7 billion. Since the program’s beginning, the agency has invested $3.2 billion to bring high-speed internet access to people in rural communities. The funds will be used for one project in each of the four states. To be eligible for ReConnect Program funding, an applicant must serve an area that lacks access to service speeds of 100 megabits per second downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Comments on CBO Baseline Projections The House Agriculture Committee completed an analysis of the Congressional Budget Office’s farm bill baseline spending estimates. The analysis shows that compared to anticipated mandatory spending under the 2018 Farm Bill, commodity support program support is expected to decrease by 12 percent, while spending on conservation, nutrition, and federal crop insurance are projected to increase by 19 percent, 82 percent, and 26 percent, respectively. Following the projections, House Ag Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson said the CBO baseline underscores what he’s been consistently hearing from producers around the country. “In light of the record-high input costs and volatile markets and weather, improvements to farm policy are necessary and warranted," he says. "Additionally, the roughly 80 percent increase to the baseline for nutrition programs since the last farm bill was enacted, namely due to the Biden Administration’s careless update to the Thrifty Food Plan, furthers the Committee’s obligation to oversight and accountability.” *********************************************************************************** John Deere Continues 80-Year Partnership with FFA John Deere announced a donation of $1 million to the National FFA Organization. The donation will get used to support the growth of future leaders, feed agriculture’s talent pipeline, and honor the organization’s community service efforts. It also builds on the 80-year partnership between John Deere and National FFA. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with John Deere,” says Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation. “They’ve been unwavering in their support for more than 80 years and continue to see the potential leaders in each one of our members and advisors.” FFA will also be raising funds during Give FFA Day on Thursday, February 23. A donation of any amount from the public will support FFA and agricultural education. It’s a chance to open doors for members to explore their interests and discover fulfilling careers. To get involved or to donate, go to FFA.org on February 23.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 17, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets There are few government reports other than the Index of Leading Economic Indicators. We will also be watching for any change in South American weather, and any new corn or soybean export sales announced at 8 a.m. We continue to wait for the long-delayed CFTC Commitment of Traders report. Weather A system continues to push off the East Coast on Friday. Much of the hazards associated with the system have ended across the primary growing areas and a quieter day is in store. Temperatures behind the system are largely below-normal though some warmth is returning to the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 16, 2023 |
Biden to Nominate Xochitl Torres Small as USDA Deputy Secretary President Joe Biden Wednesday announced his intent to nominate Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small to serve as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture at the Department of Agriculture. The Senate confirmed Torres Small to serve as the Under Secretary for Rural Development on October 7, 2021. Before serving as Undersecretary, Torres Small was a Representative for New Mexico's second congressional district, the fifth largest district in the country. As a United States Representative, Torres Small served as a member of the House Agriculture Committee. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says of the announcement, "Her expertise will further USDA's mission to advance equity and opportunity in and for rural America," adding, "I am fully confident in Under Secretary Torres Small's ability to excel in this essential role at the Department." Upon the conclusion of Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh’s service with USDA, Kevin Shea, APHIS Administrator and a career public servant with more than 40 years at USDA, will serve as Acting Deputy Secretary. *********************************************************************************** Still time to respond to the 2022 Census of Agriculture Farmers and ranchers still have time to be counted in the 2022 Census of Agriculture, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Although the deadline for submitting the ag census just passed, NASS will continue to accept completed census questionnaires through the spring to ensure all farmers and ranchers take advantage of the opportunity to be represented in the widely used data. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, "We want all producers to use their voices to help shape the future of American agriculture." NASS will continue to follow up with producers through the spring with mailings, phone calls, and personal visits. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to complete their ag census online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail as soon as possible. Federal law mandates that everyone who received the 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaire complete and return it. The same law requires NASS to keep all submissions confidential. NASS will release the results of the ag census in early 2024. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Product Inflation Outpaced Food Price Inflation in 2022 Consumer prices for wheat-based products were up substantially in 2022 compared to 2021, as indicated by the Consumer Price Index. USDA's Economic Research Service reports that the prices of various wheat products were up more than ten percent from 2021. The increase outpaced the inflation rate in the broader "all food" category, which was up 9.9 percent, more than double the average increase of the previous decade. The average price level across the cereals and bakery products category was up 13 percent in 2022, well above the previous year's increase of 2.3 percent and more than three times as large as any year in the past decade. Flour prices and prepared flour mixes were nearly 19 percent higher in 2022, far exceeding the average from the previous decade. Commodity prices for wheat were elevated in 2021 and 2022, but the increase in prices for wheat-based consumer products did not fully appear until 2022. *********************************************************************************** USGC Launches Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol The U.S. Grains Council formally launched its Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol and Sustainable Corn Exports web platform Wednesday. The launch is part of the 20th International Marketing Conference and 63rd Annual Membership Meeting in Savannah, Georgia. The CSAP is a way for U.S. corn producers to provide insights into their sustainable farming practices, continuing to strengthen global sales by highlighting their alignment with increasingly climate-focused markets. The Sustainable Corn Exports web platform complements the CSAP by making it operational. Through the SCE, U.S. corn buyers can issue shipment-specific “Records of Sustainability” to allow overseas corn importers to easily determine and document the compliance of U.S. corn shipments with local sustainability requirements. USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says, “The CSAP is a recognition of farmers’ extraordinary socioeconomic importance, and a way to further improve the appeal of their products with end-users around the world.” *********************************************************************************** Pork Checkoff Reports 2022 Exports Exports of pork and pork products surpassed $7.6 billion and 2.6 million metric tons last year. Those exports added $61.26 to the value of each hog marketed and represented 27.5 percent of production, according to the Pork Checkoff. Pork exports finished 2022 on a decidedly upward trajectory as December shipments reached 244,718 metric tons, up 13 percent year-over-year and the second largest of 2022, slightly below November. The year-end export data was a decrease compared to 2021, which was a record year, of 8.5 percent in volume and five percent in value. December exports also trended higher year-over-year to China/Hong Kong, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines and Australia, and set a value record in Central America. The Mexican market is the shining star and leading volume and value destination for U.S. Pork in 2022, with a volume increase of ten percent at 959.7 metric tons and a value increase of 21 percent at $2,034 billion. *********************************************************************************** John Deere Continues 80-year FFA Partnership with $1 Million Donation Building on 80 years of partnership, John Deere announced a donation of $1 million to the National FFA Organization. The donation will support the growth of future leaders, feed agriculture's talent pipeline, and honor the organization's community service efforts. John Deere is the longest-running sponsor of the National FFA Organization and continues to advocate for FFA, its members, and advisors. National FFA Foundation President Molly Ball says, "For more than 80 years, they've been unwavering in their support and continue to see the potential leaders in each one of our members and our advisors.” In addition to supporting the organization financially, John Deere also has many employees who are former FFA members or supporters of the organization. As a result, they have one of the country's largest FFA Alumni & Supporters chapters. The chapter will be involved during FFA Week, offering members opportunities to participate in activities promoting FFA and supporting local chapters.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 16, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets DTN will be watching the initial and continuing jobless claims, producer price index and housing starts, as well as export sales for corn and soybeans, and any weather changes for South America. Weather A system continues to push northeast near the Ohio River on Thursday. A band of snow continues from Nebraska to Michigan while periods of thunderstorms develop near and east of the Mississippi River. Some of these storms could be severe with tornadoes and strong winds.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 15, 2023 |
Consumer Price Index Increases The Consumer Price Index rose 0.5 percent in January on a seasonally adjusted basis, after increasing 0.1 percent in December, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 6.4 percent before seasonal adjustment. The food index increased 0.5 percent in January, and the food at home index rose 0.4 percent over the month. Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased over the month. The index for other food at home rose 0.7 percent in January. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs increased 0.7 percent over the month, as the index for eggs rose 8.5 percent. The index for cereals and bakery products rose 1.0 percent over the month, while the index for nonalcoholic beverages increased 0.4 percent in January. In contrast, the fruits and vegetables index fell 0.5 percent over the month, with the fresh vegetables index declining 2.3 percent. The index for dairy and related products was unchanged in January. *********************************************************************************** New Decree by Mexico Allows for Some GM Corn Imports Mexico officials issued a new decree this week calling for a ban on imports of biotech corn used for certain purposes, effective immediately. The decree also indicated the Mexican government would continue to allow imports of biotech corn used as animal feed while exploring substitutes. Once substitutes are established to satisfy supply needs, all GM corn will be banned. The National Corn Growers Association expressed serious concern with the accelerated implementation timeline. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "Singling out corn – our number one ag export to Mexico – and hastening an import ban on numerous food-grade uses makes USMCA a dead letter unless it's enforced." NCGA continues to call on the Biden administration to initiate a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute settlement panel regarding the issue. The ban, according to NCGA, would be catastrophic for American corn growers as well as the Mexican people, who depend on corn as a major staple of their food supply. *********************************************************************************** States Considering Grocery Tax Relief Lawmakers in several states are considering tax relief for consumers at the grocery store. Progressive Grocer reports many starts that charge a grocery tax are working to extend, end or change the charges as a form of inflation relief. Mississippi, home to the highest grocery tax in the nation of seven percent, recently proposed a bill to slash the tax rate in half. A poll of Mississippi consumers found 68 percent favor suspending the grocery tax. Meanwhile, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has considered another grocery tax holiday following a four-week suspension last year. Lee says, "We should do that again this year, but let's extend it to three consecutive months." Earlier this month, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt proposed to halt the state grocery tax of 4.5 percent. Meanwhile, Missouri lawmakers are considering removal of the one percent grocery tax in the state. Progressive Grocery reports other states are looking at pushing the decision back to municipal governments. *********************************************************************************** Deliveries of Caloric Sweeteners Rising Total caloric sweetener deliveries—an indicator of sweetener consumption in the United States—rose by one percent in 2021 to 127.4 pounds per capita, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Annual growth in per capita sweetener deliveries had not been observed since 2014 amid the backdrop of a long-term declining trend that started after peaking at 153.7 pounds in 1999. Growth in 2021 was driven by an increase in refined sugar deliveries per capita, the largest component, which were up 1.9 percent in 2021 at 69.8 pounds and the highest since 1995. The growth countered the 1.2 percent decrease in per capita high-fructose corn syrup deliveries to 39.5 pounds. High-fructose corn syrup deliveries, the other major component, have been steadily decreasing since topping out at 65.9 pounds in 1999, driving the long-term decline in total sweetener deliveries. While per capita deliveries of other caloric sweeteners increased by 2.4 percent in 2021, the volumes have been relatively small, historically hovering at 20 pounds. *********************************************************************************** US Tractor Sales Start 2023 Lower U.S. ag tractor sales finished January 2023 in the negative, while all segments of ag equipment grew in Canada, according to the latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Total U.S. ag tractor unit sales fell for January in all segments except one, with 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive tractors growing 22.8 percent. U.S. combine sales, however, continued its growth streak, climbing 132.7 percent year-over-year. In Canada, combine harvesters led sales again, up 179.6 percent, moving 137 units in January. Overall unit sales in tractors finished the month up seven percent. Curt Blades of AEM says, "Most of the trends we're seeing in this month's report continue what we saw throughout most of 2022." Blades adds, "However, the industry-wide growth we see in Canada this month is a pleasant sight, and we hope that trends continue and expands to the U.S. market." *********************************************************************************** USDA: Al Gore to Keynote Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate Summit The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Former Vice Preside Al Gore as the opening keynote speaker for the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate Summit. The AIM for Climate Summit is scheduled for May 8-10 this year, in Washington, D.C. USDA says the summit will bring together partners to increase and accelerate investment in and support for climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says of Gore, "He has been on the forefront of the climate crisis for more than 40 years and is a leader in the international response to combating climate change." Launched at COP26 in 2021, AIM for Climate is an initiative co-led by the United Arab Emirates and the United States that seeks to enable global partnerships and solutions at the intersection of agriculture and climate change. The deadline to submit proposals for these activities is Thursday, February 24. For more details on how to apply, visit the AIM for Climate Summit website.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 15, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department's retail sales report for January is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by the Federal Reserve's report of industrial production in January at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories will be released at 9:30 a.m. and includes ethanol production. Traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather Showers continue to move through the northern Midwest on Wednesday with some stronger winds across the region that are producing blowing snow and some blizzard conditions in the Upper Midwest. A storm system in the Four Corners area will move through the Southern Plains throughout the day. On the northern side of the track, moderate to heavy snow will develop from Colorado through much of Kansas and southern Nebraska. Strong to severe thunderstorms will develop over southern Texas into the Lower Mississippi Valley later in the day.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 14, 2023 |
USDA Unveils Investments for Addressing Water Supply Challenges for Producers in the West The Department of Agriculture Monday announced new investments and strategies to help farmers and ranchers conserve water, address climate change and build drought resilience in the West. The effort is through the Western Water and Working Lands Framework for Conservation Action to address key water and land management challenges across 17 Western States. The framework includes guidelines for identifying vulnerable agricultural landscapes and 13 strategies to help NRCS state leaders, water resource managers, and producers respond to priority challenges. Guided by this new framework, the WaterSMART Initiative will invest $25 million in three new priority areas and 37 existing priority areas, assisting communities and producers in the West. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says, “USDA is utilizing this framework and all available tools to deliver assistance that the severity of the water supply challenges in the West demand.” From 2020 to 2022, more than $410 million of annual conservation assistance NRCS provided to producers helped address drought in the West. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Announces IRA Funding for Climate-Smart Agriculture Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced funding for agricultural producers and forest landowners to participate in voluntary conservation programs and adopt climate-smart practices. The Inflation Reduction Act provided an additional $19.5 billion over five years for climate-smart agriculture through several USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service programs. NRCS is making available $850 million in fiscal year 2023 for its oversubscribed conservation programs: the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, Conservation Stewardship Program, Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and Regional Conservation Partnership Program. Secretary Vilsack says, "We know that agriculture plays a critical role in the nation's effort to address climate change." The Inflation Reduction Act funding includes an additional $8.45 billion for EQIP, $4.95 billion for RCPP, $3.25 billion for CSP, and $1.4 billion for ACEP. The increased funding levels begin in fiscal year 2023 and rapidly build over four years. The additional investments are estimated to help hundreds of thousands of farmers and ranchers apply conservation to millions of acres of land. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Trade Mission to Japan USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from exporters of U.S. farm and food products for a two-city trade mission to Japan, June 5-8. The trade mission offers U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their sales to Japan, one of the United States’ top five agricultural export markets. U.S. exports of agricultural products to Japan exceeded $14.6 billion in 2022. FAS Administrator Daniel B. Whitley says, “This trade mission will help many U.S. agribusinesses establish new business connections with their Japanese counterparts and further expand U.S. agricultural exports to this key Asian market.” Trade mission participants will travel to Tokyo and Osaka, connecting with potential customers and learning first-hand from government and industry leaders about local market conditions. Participants will also visit local retail stores and food manufacturers to round out the program. Applications are due by February 27. Those interested in participating in the trade mission should visit USDA’s FAS website, fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Higher Renewable Fuel Volumes Good Security, Economy and Environment The National Corn Growers Association says higher renewable fuel volumes over the next three years would go a long way in improving energy security. Additionally, NCGA says higher volumes would help lower gas prices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, according to recent comments submitted by NCGA to the Environmental Protection Agency. The Renewable Fuel Standard requires that U.S. transportation fuel contain a minimum volume of renewable fuel each year. NCGA’s comments were in response to EPA’s proposed volume requirements for 2023, 2024 and 2025. NCGA President Tom Haag says, “NCGA supports EPA’s proposal of annual increases in volumes, including an implied conventional biofuel volume of 15.25 billion gallons, and recognition that ethanol plays a critical role in cutting GHG emissions and our energy security.” NCGA also noted that renewable fuel adds more than 20 billion gallons to the nation’s fuel supply annually, lowering consumer costs, creating rural jobs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1 billion metric tons since the RFS was enacted. *********************************************************************************** New Report Predicts Crop Pest and Pathogen Risks Patter Ag Monday released its new Predictive Ag Report. The report can help corn and soybean farmers make better-informed decisions about managing impactful pests and pathogens, according to the company. Specifically, the report provides information about corn rootworm and sudden death syndrome. Pattern Ag operates the world's largest soil metagenomics database, with more than 200 billion DNA reads. The Predictive Ag Report is an anonymized, aggregated analysis of the Pattern Ag data. Available in print or digital form, the report predicts pest and pathogen risks 12 months in advance with more than 90 percent accuracy. This information can help agronomists and farmers make better-informed pest management decisions when selecting seed varieties or crop protection inputs. Pattern Ag plans to make the Predictive Ag Report available annually to help corn and soybean farmers offset economic losses caused by yield-impacting diseases. Farmers can receive a copy of the report by visiting Pattern.ag. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again, Demand Increases The nation's average gas declined for the second straight week, dropping 7.3 cents from a week ago to $3.37 per gallon. The national average is up 10.9 cents from a month ago and 10.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 7.3 cents last week and stands at $4.52 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “While diesel prices likely have a long way to fall as inventories continue to improve, gasoline prices in some areas have gone up in the last weeks as the transition to summer gasoline is just around the corner.” GasBuddy data shows that gasoline demand has risen for the third straight week, a trend that will likely continue as spring arrives. Also, refinery maintenance season will soon be in full force, likely putting upward pressure on prices. On average, gasoline prices rise between 35 and 85 cents per gallon between March and Memorial Day.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 14, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for January is set for 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, putting attention back on the likelihood of more rate hikes ahead. Traders will check the latest weather forecasts and pause for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A system that developed across the Central and Southern Plains during the overnight will lift northeast today, providing widespread rainfall from northern Texas into Wisconsin. Rainfall with this system could approach up to one inch in areas. Meanwhile, above average temperatures will persist across the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Upper Mississippi Valley today, with temperatures 10-20 degrees above normal.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 13, 2023 |
Key Happenings the Newsroom is Tracking for the Week of Feb. 12-18 Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Feb. 12. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Loading up for Louisville: DTN will have several team members at the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville. Watch for equipment and other updates from the show floor by our Progressive Farmer Senior Editor Dan Miller. We'll also be hosting a series of workshops on site. Ag Meteorologist John Baranick will discuss the latest spring and summer forecast, and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will give his long-range outlook on the markets. Also, next week Progressive Farmer Senior Editor Joel Reichenberger will be reporting from the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. 2. Tale of two storms: We'll be watching a pair of storm systems rolling across the U.S. during the week, each bringing the chance of snow and hazardous conditions, as well as short-lived cold snaps in northern areas. 3. Summit Series kick-off: DTN followers are familiar with our industry-leading DTN Ag Summit, historically held in December. They'll also likely know we moved to a totally virtual event in 2022 to allow more access to the thought-provoking speakers and presentations. The next step in that is our Ag Summit Series, which will feature several one-day virtual events throughout the year, culminating in the multi-day DTN Ag Summit in December. Our initial Series event, scheduled for Feb. 28, is "Get Set for Spring." 4. Reports to watch: DTN's commodity analysts team will be watching for further market reaction to crop conditions in South America as well as the potential for yet more escalation in the war in Ukraine. We're also tracking USDA grain export inspections reports on Monday, Tuesday's Consumer Price Index tallies, and Friday's release of the U.S. index of leading economic indicators. 5. And a birthday to note: We're marking the 137th anniversary of Progressive Farmer Magazine, which was Feb. 10 -- a feat we're all pretty proud of around here. If you haven't seen February's "The Art of Planting" issue, with a focus on getting that planter ready for spring.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 13, 2023 |
Another Record Year for Farm Exports The American agriculture sector posted its best export year ever in 2022. USDA says international sales of America’s farm and food products reached $196 billion. Final trade data from the U.S. Commerce Department showed U.S. ag exports increased 11 percent, or $19.5 billion, from the previous record set in 2021. The value of sales increased in all of America’s top ten ag export markets, including China, Mexico, Canada, Japan, the European Union, South Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, Columbia, and Vietnam. Sales in seven of the ten countries set new records. The top U.S. commodity exports in 2022 were soybeans, corn, beef, dairy, cotton, and tree nuts. International sales of many products, including soybeans, cotton, dairy, beef, ethanol, poultry, soybean meal, distilled spirits, and distillers’ grains, all reached record values. “Overall, there were 30 markets where U.S. exports exceeded $1 billion in 2022, up from 27 in 2021,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** Chicago Fed: 2022 Farmland Values Jumped 12 Percent The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago released its quarterly “Ag Letter,” showing that the district saw a strong annual increase of 12 percent in farmland values during 2022. The Fed says although the result may seem like a letdown after the even larger increase in 2021, last year’s annual gain was the second-largest in the past ten years. During the final quarter of 2022, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin still had double-digit year-over-year increases in their agricultural land values. But Indiana was the only District state to have an increase larger than the fourth quarter of 2021. Stronger agricultural credit conditions for the District also contributed to farmers’ optimism. The share of the District’s farm loan portfolio assessed as having “major” or “severe” repayment problems was 1.2 percent in the fourth quarter of last year, lower than the share reported in any final quarter since data collection began in 1998. *********************************************************************************** Senators Ask President Biden to Address Brazil’s Tariff on U.S. Ethanol Senators Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Chuck Grassley of Iowa sent a letter to President Biden urging him to use an upcoming meeting with Brazil’s president to discuss the country’s tax on U.S. ethanol imports. The letter comes after Brazil’s Foreign Trade Chamber reinstated an import tariff on American ethanol shipped to Brazil. The new 16 percent tariff rate, which will increase to 18 percent in 2024, is a sharp departure from the zero percent tariff rate previously shared between the two nations. “Our American ethanol industry should not be subject to prohibitive tariff and non-tariff barriers while Brazilian ethanol producers enjoy duty-free access to our market and biodiesel programs,” the senators said in the letter. “We believe this imbalance in tariffs and access to Brazil’s biofuels program is unwarranted and unfair, and we urge you to discuss this issue with the president directly.” Eight other senators signed on to the letter. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Ian Caused Over $1 billion in Damages A University of Florida report says Hurricane Ian caused just over $1 billion in agricultural production losses. The biggest hits were to the citrus industry, vegetable growers, and melon producers. The new report from the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences set the estimated overall production losses at $1.03 billion. That number includes $247.1 million in damages for citrus growers, $204.6 million for vegetable and melon growers, and $195.4 million for the nursery and greenhouse industries. “The main takeaway is that there was a very significant production loss,” says Christa Court, the director of the IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program. “These are estimates, but some of the crops aren’t at their final harvest stage.” As a result, she also says it remains to be seen what actually happens when they get to that final harvest. The report also estimates that field and row crops sustained $130.2 million in production losses from the hurricane. *********************************************************************************** The University of Minnesota Progressing on ASF Research University of Minnesota researchers are at the forefront of successful efforts to work on the African Swine Fever virus. They’re developing and validating a surrogate virus for ASF that will help develop effective mitigation strategies to control the virus and keep it from entering North America. African Swine Fever has devastated pig populations and pork production in countries around the world. The lab is one of only a handful of facilities in the U.S. to have access to the highly contagious ASF virus, and its work represents a major breakthrough in research efforts. In addition to working directly on the African Swine Fever Virus, the surrogate virus is strikingly similar to ASF in terms of its structure and stability. It can be safely used in field studies to help scientists understand more about how the virus is transmitted in real-world conditions and what strategies are effective to prevent its spread. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wants Science From Mexico on GMO Corn Ban Doug McKalip, the new agriculture trade boss in the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office, says he’s given Mexico until February 14 to explain the science behind the country’s planned ban on GMO corn imports. Market Screener says the response will help the agency decide the next steps to resolve the long-running disagreement over Mexico’s biotechnology policies when it comes to agriculture. The next steps could include escalating the dispute settlement process under the USMCA. If it continues, the dispute threatens to disrupt the billions of dollars worth of corn trade between the United States and Mexico. McKalip says Mexico rejected 14 agricultural product traits that were submitted to them, and they didn’t provide any justification. “We want to make sure that they do the science, show their work, and make decisions based upon risk assessments,” he says. U.S. officials recently warned Mexican officials that America may take formal steps under USMCA.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 13, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will follow up news concerning Friday's close call of Russian missiles near NATO territory and any related events in Ukraine, as well as take a look at the latest weather forecasts. USDA's weekly report of grain export inspections is due at 10 a.m. CST. Financial markets may turn quiet Monday afternoon, ahead of Tuesday consumer price index for January. Weather A system will develop across the Central and Southern Plains Monday into Monday night, providing widespread rainfall from northern Texas into southern Nebraska. Rainfall with this system will generally remain light, but isolated areas across north-central Texas and south-central Oklahoma could see up to a half inch of rain through Monday night. Meanwhile, above average temperatures will persist across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest today, with temperatures 10-15 degrees above normal.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 10, 2023 |
Senators Reintroduce Bill to Defend Cattle Producers Senators Jon Tester, Chuck Grassley, and Mike Rounds reintroduced their “Meat Packing Special Investigator Act” to fight consolidation and enforce the national anti-trust laws. The bill would create the “Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters” within the USDA. The office would be made up of a team of investigators that have subpoena power and would be responsible for targeting and preventing anti-competitive practices among large players in the meat and poultry industries. “Anti-competitive behavior in the meat packing industry hurts both consumers and producers,” Rounds says. “Unfortunately, packer concentration in the beef industry today is more consolidated than it was when the Packers and Stockyards Act was first signed into law over 100 years ago.” Only four companies operate 18 of the top 20 beef slaughter facilities in the country. “It’s time we beef up the available tools to protect farm families and folks at the meat counter,” said Grassley. *********************************************************************************** Beef Exports Set Records in 2022, Pork Finishes Strong American beef exports set records for both volume and value in 2022. Despite slowing toward the end of the year, beef exports reached 1.47 million metric tons, two percent above the previous high in 2021. Export value climbed to a record $11.68 billion, 10 percent higher than in 2021 and 40 percent above the previous five-year average. “Last year was a groundbreaking year for American beef’s international presence, with global demand stronger than I’ve seen in all my years,” says Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Pork exports finished lower year-over-year, but the export value was the third-largest on-record. Pork exports were trending higher as December shipments reached 244,718 metric tons, up 13 percent year-over-year and the second-largest of 2022. Higher December numbers pushed 2022 exports to 2.67 million metric tons, 8.5 percent below the previous year. Export value dropped five percent to $7.68 billion. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Responds to Falling Farm Income Report While American families are dealing with record-high grocery prices, farm families can expect to see a drop in income during 2023. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the Farm Income Forecast in their latest Market Intel Report, noting that income will fall 16 percent this year while costs will rise over four percent. “The farm income forecast is a stark reminder that American farmers and ranchers aren’t reaping benefits from higher grocery store prices,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “While some commodity prices are rising, farmers are being hit by circumstances beyond their control, which is why the farm bill is so important and must get passed this year.” Adding to the challenges are rising interest rates and farm-sector debt that will increase by $31.9 billion to a record $535 billion. “Farm bill programs enable farmers to manage the risk and weather the challenges to continue feeding America’s families,” Duvall adds. *********************************************************************************** Officials to Reintroduce Bill to Expand and Strengthen Local Meat Processing Representatives Chellie Pingree of Maine and Jim Baird of Indiana, along with Senators John Thune of South Dakota and Sherrod Brown of Ohio, plan to reintroduce legislation to support small meat and poultry processors. The “Strengthening Local Processors Act” will diversify and make U.S. meat processing more resilient by giving local livestock producers more options. “One of the top concerns from livestock producers is difficulty in accessing USDA processing facilities,” Pingree says. “Their livelihoods depend on having somewhere to take their animals, but their options are severely limited in the current system.” The legislation would create a competitive grant program for small and very small establishments, state-inspected facilities, custom-exempt facilities, or new small-scale slaughter facilities to help increase processing capacity and grow resiliency. It will also create two new grant programs for meat processing workforce training. “This legislation will bolster local production and provide education and training,” Brown says. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Ties U.S. as Top Corn Exporter The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service says Brazil’s 2022-2023 corn exports from October through September of last year are forecast to equal those of the U.S. at 51 million tons. Brazil has seen expanding production and strong exports in the second half of its 2021-2022 marketing year. Brazil’s corn exports have exceeded those of the U.S. only one time, in the drought year of 20112-2013. Since October 2022, Brazil has exported about 25 million tons of corn, far more than the same period in any previous year. U.S. corn exports are off to a slow start. Production in 2022-2023 was smaller than initially expected, and logistical concerns on the Mississippi River made things difficult. In the last several months, Brazil has stepped in to fill some of the gap left by Argentina and Ukraine in supplying the world’s corn. But current export bids for U.S. corn are lower than Argentina and Brazil. *********************************************************************************** NFU Hosting College Conference on Cooperatives The National Farmers Union will host the College Conference on Cooperatives in Minneapolis, Minnesota, February 16-19. During the three days, participants will hear from experts in the field of cooperatives, participate in interactive learning activities and workshops, and tour co-ops in the Twin Cities. The event attracts students from across the country and is beneficial to those new to co-ops, as well as those with some previous co-op education. “NFU history is rooted in the cooperative movement, and our future is too,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “The college is a glowing example of the value Farmers Union provides to our members and their communities.” Participants will hear from a variety of speakers from local and national co-ops. The keynote luncheon will feature an address from Megan Rock, the Chief Sustainability Officer and Vice President of Sustainability and Innovation with CHS Inc. Interested students can find out more at nfu.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 10, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. CST Friday, followed by the U.S. Treasury's report on the January federal budget. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and pay attention to news from outside markets. Weather The cold front to a system this week has hung up in the Southeast and will continue to produce showers on Friday. Outside of some spotty showers going through the Northeast, the rest of the country will be dry. It is a little colder than in previous days, but still rather mild for most areas of the country for mid-February.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 9, 2023 |
USDA Releases February WASDE Report The Department of Agriculture Released the February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report Wednesday. This month's 2022/23 U.S. corn outlook is for lower corn used for ethanol and larger ending stocks. Corn used for ethanol is reduced 25 million bushels. The season-average corn price received by producers was unchanged at $6.70 per bushel. The soybean outlook projects lower soybean crush and higher ending stocks. Soybean crush is forecast at 2.23 billion bushels, down 15 million from last month on lower domestic soybean meal disappearance and a higher soybean meal extraction rate. The season-average soybean price for 2022/23 is forecast at $14.30 per bushel, up 10 cents from last month. The supply and demand outlook for wheat is largely unchanged this month, with minor revisions to domestic use and ending stocks. The season-average farm price is forecast $0.10 per bushel lower at $9.00, based on prices received to date and expectations for cash prices for the remainder of 2022/23. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Electric Vehicles Force Ethanol Demand Lower A new report from USDA's Economic Research Service suggests ethanol demand may decline with the rise of electric vehicles. The Global Demand for Fuel Ethanol Through 2030 report suggests that global gasoline demand is expected to stagnate over the next decade, leaving changes in blend rates as the main determinant for future changes in fuel ethanol demand. After seeing strong growth for several years, U.S. ethanol-based demand for corn has plateaued over the last decade at about 5 billion bushels, or roughly 40 percent of U.S. corn production. Recently, demand for transportation fuels was reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Though these markets largely recovered, moving forward, increased adoption of hybrid or electric vehicles and continued fuel efficiency gains will decrease domestic gasoline consumption, which could decrease domestic fuel ethanol demand. These impacts could result in additional unutilized U.S. ethanol production capacity. The 114-page study is available on the Economic Research Service website, ers.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Below Average Runoff Continues for Upper Missouri River Basin The updated 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average. January runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet, 134 percent of average. Runoff was above average due to warmer-than-normal temperatures in the upper basin resulting in some snowmelt runoff. Precipitation in January was below normal for most of the upper basin except for southern South Dakota, which saw above-normal precipitation. The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 21.1-million-acre feet, 82 percent of average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. At the start of the 2023 runoff season, which typically begins around March 1, the total volume of water stored in the Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System is expected to be 46.0 million-acre-feet, 10.1 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone. *********************************************************************************** NAEDA Launches Membership Engagement Platform The North American Equipment Dealers Association recently announced the launch of its new members-only dealer engagement platform, NAEDA Community. The social and communications platform will provide a central place for dealers to connect, collaborate, learn, and share. NAEDA was formed in 2022 with the recent merger of the Equipment Dealers Association, the Midwest-SouthEastern Equipment Dealers Association, the United Equipment Dealers Association and the Western Equipment Dealers Association. With this merger now firmly in place, NAEDA is looking to enhance its communications efforts with its 4000+ dealer members across North America. NAEDA CEO Kim Rominger says, “We are confident this exciting communications tool will drive engagement, help us promote our programs and services and improve the member experience with our association." NAEDA members can find the community at www.naedacommunity.com. Dealers are encouraged to share the NAEDA community with the rest of their organization so they can have the opportunity to sign up and stay connected. *********************************************************************************** ARS Scientists Improve Nutrients and add Value to Rice Crop Rice, already the primary staple for half the world’s population, is getting a makeover from a research team in New Orleans, Louisiana. The results are a more healthful grain and many potential new products. The team, based in the Agricultural Research Service’s Southern Regional Research Center, is making rice a more valuable commodity by developing new technologies that capitalize on the grain’s natural health benefits. Research chemist Stephen Boue says, "We're interested in processing treatments that enhance resistant starch and other bioactive components." Studies are underway to determine Bioactive compound's role in the prevention of cancer, heart disease, and other diseases. One such development is a rice variety that is more beneficial to human health. Rice contains 76–78 percent starch, and cooked rice typically contains one or two percent of starch that resists digestion, but the newer rice varieties have eight to ten percent resistant starch, or more. Resistant starch is not digested in the small intestine; rather, it passes through to the large intestine, where it ferments and produces beneficial metabolites. *********************************************************************************** Price of Chicken Wings Easing in Time for the Big Games Retail prices for chicken wings have been trending lower in recent months and in time for national sporting events such as the upcoming Super Bowl and the college basketball championship tournaments. Previously, a combination of limited supplies and strong demand led to a historic runup in wholesale and retail prices. Wholesale chicken wing prices reached a peak of $3.25 per pound in late May 2021, but retail prices continued to climb. At the start of the 2022 March Madness basketball tournament, the national average retail feature price was estimated at $4.29 per pound. Nearly a year later and just ahead of the 2023 Super Bowl and basketball tournament, the national average feature price is down nearly $1.70 per pound to $2.62, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. The average wholesale price in December 2022 was 89 cents per pound, down more than $2.50 per pound from the 2021 peak.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 9, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department will release its weekly report of natural gas storage. Traders will continue to keep an eye on South American weather and will pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA has a new export sale. Outside markets continue to monitor corporate earnings season. Weather A storm system moving through the Midwest is bringing a wide band of precipitation through the region on Thursday, including a wintry mix on the backside that will lead to some moderate snow accumulation from northern Missouri through southern Wisconsin. Winds are increasing around the system as well as out in the Plains where an upper-level trough is moving in behind the system, bringing somewhat cooler air. Southeastern areas will see a cold front hang up with more showers continuing there as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 8, 2023 |
Farm Sector Profits Forecast to Fall in 2023 USDA's Economic Research Service released the February Farm Income Forecast Tuesday. Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast at $136.9 billion in calendar year 2023, a decrease of $25.9 billion, or 15.9 percent, relative to 2022. After adjusting for inflation, net farm income is forecast to decrease $30.5 billion, or 18.2 percent, in 2023. Despite the expected decline, net farm income in 2023 would be 26.6 percent above its 20-year average of $108.1 billion in inflation-adjusted dollars. Net cash farm income is forecast at $150.6 billion in 2023, a decrease of $39.4 billion, or 20.7 percent, relative to 2022. Cash receipts from the sale of agricultural commodities are forecast to decrease by $23.6 billion from a forecast record high of $543.4 billion in 2022 to $519.9 billion in 2023. Also contributing to the forecast of lower income in 2023 are lower direct Government payments and higher production expenses. Average net cash farm income for farm businesses is forecast to decrease 17.7 percent from 2022 to $92,400 per farm in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Improvement in Farmer Sentiment Carries Over into 2023 The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose again in January, to a reading of 130, four points above its 2022 year-end index value. The January survey results also pushed the index 34 percent above its 2022 low point, which occurred last June. The barometer's modest rise in January was primarily attributable to better expectations for the future as the Future Expectations Index rose five points to 127 while the Index of Current Conditions, with a value of 136, changed little compared to December. The Financial Performance Index dropped to 93 this month, down from 109 in December, but that primarily reflects producers' being asked to look ahead to 2023 and compare it to 2022 rather than comparing 2022 to 2021. Of the 400 respondents, 22 percent expect to have a larger farm operating loan than in 2022, which was down somewhat from last January when 27 percent of respondents expected to have a larger operating loan. *********************************************************************************** Record Cattle Prices Possible in 2023 USDA’s January 1 cattle inventory report places the total number of cattle and calves at 89.3 million head, consistent with trade expectations for a three percent decline from a year ago. The decline comes as cattle producers face a fourth consecutive year of contraction within the cattle cycle. That’s approaching inventory lows last seen in 2014 and 2015, at the start of the current cycle, when producers began rebuilding following the drought in 2012. Beef production is anticipated to be 6.5 percent lower in 2023 than last year. University of Illinois Economist Jason Franken suggested that all things considered, prices in 2023 are likely to exceed those of the last couple of years. Current conditions are even bringing about speculation on the possibility of exceeding record prices last set in the 4th quarter of 2014. Franken says that seems feasible for fat cattle, which are already trading around $156 per hundredweight. *********************************************************************************** House Agriculture Democrats Announce Subcommittee Leaders The top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee announced the ranking subcommittee members Tuesday. David Scott of Georgia is the ranking member of the Committee during this session of Congress, after serving as chair in the Democrat majority in the last session. Scott announced Ohio’s Shontel Brown as the ranking member of the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit. Oregon's Andrea Salinas will serve as the top Democrat on the Subcommittee on Forestry, and Virginia's Abigail Spanberger is the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology. Meanwhile, Connecticut's Jahana Hayes will be the top Democrat on the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Foreign Agriculture, and Horticulture, and California’s Jim Costa assumes the same role on the Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. Finally, Yadiro Caraveo of Colorado will serve as the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Visiting North Carolina This Week Following Tuesday's State of the Union Address, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack is visiting North Carolina Wednesday and Thursday. Vilsack is hosting a series of events "underlining how the Biden-Harris Administration is delivering on its promises to grow the economy from the bottom up and the middle out by investing in rural communities." Vilsack visits Greensboro Wednesday to host a panel discussion highlighting the major investment being made by USDA to expand markets for America's climate-smart commodities. During the visit, Secretary Vilsack will also visit an agricultural facility and see firsthand some of the innovative, cutting-edge work that will be supported in the area by this investment. On Thursday, Secretary Vilsack will visit Raleigh, where he will host a panel discussion underlining the significant and transformative investments made by USDA to bolster infrastructure in rural North Carolinian communities. Investing in essential infrastructure like high-speed broadband, water infrastructure, and more is a pillar of USDA's efforts to create a "circular economy" in rural North Carolina and beyond. *********************************************************************************** USDA Developing New Ways to Track COVID in Wild and Domestic Animals Scientists with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service are developing new tests to identify and track the COVID virus in wild and domestic animals. Funded by the American Rescue Plan, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is implementing $300 million to conduct monitoring and surveillance of susceptible animals for the COVID virus. Through the initiative, ARS, in partnership with APHIS, is conducting five research projects to improve its understanding of the virus and to help APHIS accomplish its goal of building an early warning system to potentially prevent or limit the next zoonotic disease outbreak or global pandemic. Two of the projects call for developing easy-to-use field tests to quickly identify COVID infection in wildlife and domestic animals. Currently, all official testing of animals for COVID requires sending samples to certified laboratories and can take a week or more to provide answers. This may be too long to prevent early spread of infection.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 8, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department will release its weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. CST, including ethanol production. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its WASDE report with this month's attention largely on South American production estimates. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather forecasts and other outside news. Weather A storm continues to build over Texas early Wednesday morning. The storm center should push northeast into the Midwest later in the day Wednesday. Widespread precipitation in Texas will translate northeast with the storm throughout the day, bringing some heavy amounts and potential for severe weather into the Delta as well. Some snow will mix in on the northern side of the track as the band gets into the Midwest from eastern Kansas into Iowa overnight. Strong winds will start to develop near the low center in the Midwest and Delta tonight into Thursday as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 7, 2023 |
USDA Forecasts 2023 Net Farm Income to Fall 16% From 2022 But Remain Above 20-Year Average USDA's Economic Research Service expects 2023 farm incomes to decline nearly 16% compared to 2022 due to lower cash receipts, smaller government payments and higher production expenses. On Tuesday, the agency forecast total net farm income at $136.9 billion for the 2023 calendar year. After adjusting for inflation, it'd be the fifth-highest net farm income since 2002. Net cash income, which doesn't include economic depreciation, changes in inventories and the cost of operator dwellings, is forecast to decline nearly 21% relative to 2022, to $150.6 billion. Matt Bennett, an Illinois farmer and co-founder of brokerage and consulting firm AgMarket.Net, said he doesn't know what the market's going to do in 2023. "What I do know is this is the most expensive corn crop the U.S. farmer will have ever put in the ground," he told DTN on the sidelines of AgMarket.Net's Farming for Profit, Not Price conference. "We run that risk that if the market ends up turning us out, we could be in a situation where we could be underwater even with phenomenal yields." He shared similar projections from the University of Illinois Farmdoc team, which called for an average return of $72 per acre of corn grown on high-productivity Illinois soil. While that's significantly lower than the last two years' $300-plus-per-acre returns, it's significantly better than what farmers saw from 2017 to 2019. For farmers, it's important to consider their crop insurance and marketing strategies carefully in 2023, adding that there are ways to lock in more than $72 per acre in profit right now using various strategies. "A person needs to make sure they're not making marketing decisions about 2023 based on how much money they made in 2021 and '22," Bennett said. "Look at 2023 as a standalone year." CASH RECEIPTS Overall cash receipts are expected to decline by $23.6 billion, or 4.3%, from 2022. USDA said cash receipts for crops, particularly corn and soybeans, are expected to contribute $8.9 billion to the decline, while lower animal and animal product receipts are expected to account for $14.7 billion, following lower prices for milk, eggs, broilers and hogs. USDA says there are two factors that influence the change in cash receipts from year to year: changes in prices and changes in quantities. "In 2023, falling prices are expected to account for most of the decline in cash receipts," the agency states. PRODUCTION EXPENSES Farm sector production expenses, which include operator dwellings, are expected to increase by $18.2 billion from 2022 to $459.5 billion in 2023. While that sets a record in nominal dollars, it remains below 2014's record high when adjusted for inflation. "Most of the production expense categories are projected to remain above their 2021 levels in 2023, in both nominal and inflation-adjusted dollars," USDA said. Feed costs remain the biggest line item at $72.7 billion. Although that's $3.9 billion less than 2022, it comes on the heels of an $11.3 billion increase in the prior year. Fertilizer, lime and soil conditioners are the second-largest expenses category at $42.2 billion, just shy of 2022's record high of $42.5 billion. USDA notes considerable increases in farmers' interest expenses, up more than 22% from the year before, as well as labor costs, which are expected to grow 7% from 2022. Fuel and rent expenses are expected to decline in 2023. Fuel expenses are projected to fall nearly 15% to $3 billion due to lower U.S. Energy Information Agency forecast diesel prices. USDA says net rent is expected to decline $1.6 billion, or 8.2%. "If realized, this decline would be the first reduction in net rent since 2018 and, in part, reflects the forecast decline in net income." GOVERNMENT PAYMENTS At $10.2 billion, government payments are anticipated to be 34.4% lower than 2022 due to lower supplemental ad hoc disaster assistance. These payments include farm program payments, such as the Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) program and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program but exclude USDA loans and insurance indemnity payments made by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. USDA noted that government payments hit a record high of $45.6 billion in calendar year 2020, before declining to $25.9 billion in 2021 and $15.6 billion in 2022. Much of this is due to lower payments from COVID-19-era programs, such as the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), the Paycheck Protection Program, the Emergency Relief Program and the Emergency Livestock Relief Program. Conservation program payments are expected to total $4 billion in 2023, up nearly half a million dollars from the previous year. Farm bill commodity program payments under ARC and PLC are expected to decline more than 81% from 2022 to $303.4 million due to higher commodity prices.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 7, 2023 |
Senators Urge USDA to Address Avian Flu Immediately A group of Senators urges the Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to take swift action to address the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. The lawmakers ask Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to quickly use funds provided by Congress in the Fiscal Year 2023 Agriculture Appropriations bill. Led by Senator Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, the lawmakers say, "it is imperative the agency quickly deploy additional resources and work with the states in improving biosecurity measures within the avian supply chain, including the disinfection of sites and the testing and quarantining of affected flocks." As of January 31, 2023, APHIS confirmed avian flu had been found in 745 flocks in 47 states, and affected over 58 million birds, directly contributing to rising egg prices. In the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Act, Congress provided an increase in annual funding to address the avian influenza outbreak, including over $64 million for improving avian health, and updated guidance on proactively mitigating the spread of disease. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Rural Internet Improvement Act A bipartisan group of Senators recently introduced legislation to merge USDA broadband programs. New Mexico Democrat Ben Ray Luján and South Dakota Republican John Thune reintroduced the Rural Internet Improvement Act. The legislation would streamline and bolster USDA Rural Development broadband programs and ensure their funding is targeted to rural areas that need it the most. Senator Thune says, "Our bipartisan legislation would help bridge the digital divide by improving USDA's ReConnect Program to ensure its funding goes to truly unserved areas.” The Rural Internet Improvement Act would: merge and codify the popular Rural e-Connectivity Pilot Program, or ReConnect program, with USDA’s traditional broadband loan and grant program. The legislation would also ensure ReConnect funding is going to areas most in need of reliable broadband service by limiting funding to areas where at least 90 percent of households lack access to broadband service. Finally, the bill would Improve coordination between USDA and the Federal Communications Commission on broadband programs. *********************************************************************************** Cow-calf Producers with Larger Paddocks Rotate Cattle Less Frequently USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that as average paddock size increases, farmers and ranchers tend to rotate their cattle less frequently. Rotational grazing systems rotate animals among a series of paddocks, or fenced pasture areas, allowing forage to recover before returning the cattle to graze in that spot again. A key decision for ranchers that affects forage growth is the number of rotations for a given number of paddocks. A large portion, 84 percent, of operations with small paddocks of 19 acres or less, rotated their cattle so that each paddock had four or more rotations per year. Intensive rotational grazing systems use an average grazing period of 14 or fewer days per paddock. In contrast, researchers found that about 52 percent of operations using large paddocks of 40 acres or more rotated cattle four or more times per year. The pattern of smaller paddocks and more rotations was even more evident for basic rotational grazing operations, which use an average grazing period longer than 14 days. *********************************************************************************** Bayer, Kimitec, Partner on Commercializing Biologicals Bayer and Kimitec announced a new strategic partnership focused on accelerating the development and commercialization of biological crop protection solutions and biostimulants. As part of a global agreement, both companies will become key partners to advance and establish biological solutions derived from natural sources: crop protection products that address pests, diseases and weeds, as well as biostimulants to promote plant growth. Kimitec operates Europe's largest biotechnological innovation hub with 15 years of experience in researching and discovering natural molecules and compounds for agriculture. By leveraging Bayer's product development expertise with Kimitec's proven discovery capabilities, biological product development will be accelerated to build integrated crop management solutions that can scale and develop through Bayer's global infrastructure backbone. This includes field testing, product support and commercialization. Dr. Robert Reiter, Head of R&D for Bayer's Crop Science division, says, “Bayer is committed to providing growers with the benefits of biological solutions as part of an integrated crop management system.” *********************************************************************************** Students to Celebrate Agriculture and Leadership Around the Country This month, FFA members around the country will celebrate agriculture and FFA during National FFA Week. Whether through service projects or community gatherings, National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about the National FFA Organization's role in developing future leaders and the importance of agricultural education. National FFA Week always runs from Saturday to Saturday and encompasses February 22, George Washington's birthday. This year, the week kicks off on February 18 and culminates on Saturday, February 25. The National FFA Board of Directors designated the weeklong tradition, which began in 1948, to recognize Washington's legacy as an agriculturist and farmer. A group of young farmers founded FFA in 1928, and the organization has been influencing generations that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting — it involves science, business and more. National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to share agriculture with their fellow students and communities. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline for the First Time in 2023 For the first time in 2023, the nation's average gas price posted a weekly drop, falling 4.4 cents from a week ago to $3.44 per gallon. The national average is up 17.5 cents from a month ago and 1.7 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.2 cents last week and stands at $4.60 per gallon. Still, GasBuddy reports U.S. retail gasoline demand rose 2.2 percent last week. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “While the decline in both gasoline and diesel prices is terrific, it’s not unusual to see prices falling in February, which tends to be the month with some of the lowest gasoline prices of the year thanks to seasonally weak demand.” For diesel, De Haan says we’re likely to see more declines, and potentially much more significant ones in the weeks ahead as imports of distillate have accelerated, leading to a sell-off.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday February 7, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, the U.S. Census Bureau will display the trade deficit for December and provide USDA with export data to be released later Tuesday morning. At 8 a.m., Statistics Canada's Stocks of Principal Field Crops for December 31 will be out. Later Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to the Economic Club of Washington and may offer more clues for what the Fed is planning. Trading in grains may turn quiet at some point as traders await USDA's WASDE report on Wednesday. Weather A storm system is forming along a boundary in eastern Texas on Tuesday, with increasing precipitation in the region throughout the day. Another system is passing through the Midwest and may bring some showers there, but most of the rest of the country will be rather dry and mild.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 6, 2023 |
FAO Food Price Index Continues to Decline The February FAO Food Price Index averaged 131.2 points in January 2023, down 1.1 points, or 0.8 percent, from December, marking the 10th consecutive monthly decline. With this latest decline, the index has fallen 28.6 points, 17.9 percent, from its peak in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index averaged 147.4 points in January, up fractionally from December and 6.7 points above its level one year ago. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 140.4 points in January, down 2.9 percent month-on-month and nearly 25 percent below its level a year ago. The Dairy Price Index averaged 136.2 points in January, down 1.4 percent from December, hitting its lowest level in 12 months. The decline in January reflected lower international prices of butter and milk powders. The Meat Price Index averaged 113.6 points in January, down marginally in December, continuing the decline for the seventh consecutive month, but it still stood 1.3 percent above its year-earlier level. Finally, the Sugar Price Index averaged 115.8 points in January, down 1.1 percent from December. *********************************************************************************** Food Dollar’s Property Income Share Remained at Historic High in 2021 In 2021, the average dollar spent by U.S. consumers on domestically produced food returned 39.4 cents as property income. Property income is income received by owners of capital assets such as land, equipment, and intellectual property after they pay for inputs, labor, and output taxes. The 39.4 cents as property income marked a 0.3-cent increase from a revised 2020 estimate of 39.1 cents and the second year in a row in which property income's share of the food dollar set a record high for USDA Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. The share of the food dollar that compensates labor through salaries and benefits was 50.3 cents in 2021, a 1.2-cent decrease from 2020. The remaining food dollar shares were each at 5.1 cents for output taxes and imports, which include imported ingredients and other inputs needed for domestic food production. Annual shifts in the primary factor shares of the food dollar may occur for a variety of reasons, according to USDA. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Steps to Improve Child Health through Nutritious School Meals Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Friday announced major initiatives that support and enhance the health of America's children through nutritious school meals. At the USDA Conversation on Healthy School Meals Roundtable, Vilsack says, “Our commitment to the school meal programs comes from a common goal we all share – keeping kids healthy and helping them reach their full potential.” USDA supports efforts to enhance the health and quality of life of America’s children by proposing gradual updates to science-based nutrition standards in school meals, recognizing school districts that have gone above and beyond in nutritional quality, and assisting small and rural school districts in improving the nutritional quality of school meals. Vilsack shared proposed updates to the school meal standards to reflect the latest nutrition science. These updates focus on a few targeted areas that will support even healthier meals for kids on a timeline that reflects critical input from school nutrition professionals, public health experts, industry, and parents. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Committee Announces Subcommittee Chairs House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson recently announced subcommittee Chairs and jurisdictions for the 118th Congress. The Pennsylvania Republican says of the subcommittee chairs, “Their expertise and partnership are essential to fulfilling this Committee’s mandate of delivering certainty and prosperity to American agriculture and its entire value chain. Representative Austin Scott of Georgia will serve as the Vice Chair of the Full Committee, and chair of the General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit Subcommittee. California's Dough LaMalfa will chair the Subcommittee on Forestry, and Indiana's Jim Baird is chair of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology. Meanwhile, Minnesota's Brad Finstad was appointed Chair of the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Foreign Agriculture, and Horticulture. Finally, Tracey Mann of Kansas was appointed chair of the Livestock Subcommittee, and South Dakota's Dusty Johnson is Chair of the Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development. *********************************************************************************** Grassley, Fischer, Wyden, Tester Reintroduce Cattle Market Reform Bill Senator Chuck Grassley and a bipartisan group of Senators last week introduced the bipartisan Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act of 2023. Joining Grassley was fellow Republican Deb Fischer of Nebraska, and Democrats Ron Wyden of Oregon and Jon Tester of Montana. The lawmakers say the legislation would restore transparency and accountability in the cattle market by establishing regional cash minimums and equipping producers with more market information, including permanently authorizing a cattle contract library. Grassley says, "It's past time for Congress to stand with independent cattle producers and put an end to the cozy relationship between large meat packers and big cattle feedlots." The legislation requires the creation of 5-7 regions encompassing the entire continental U.S., and then establish minimum levels of fed cattle purchases made through an approved pricing mechanism. The bill would also establish a maximum penalty for covered packers of $90,000 for mandatory minimum violations. The legislation also creates a publicly available library of marketing contracts. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Rural Data Gateway USDA Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small Friday unveiled the Rural Data Gateway. The effort is a new resource to make the Department's data for rural projects easier to access for its partners and people living in rural communities. The Rural Data Gateway will help USDA better target resources to those who need them most in rural places. It also will help the Department be a stronger partner to rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and other stakeholders. Torres Small says, “The Rural Data Gateway will highlight places where USDA has expanded access to capital for people in rural communities who need it most.” The Gateway also showcases USDA Rural Development’s investments that have helped rural people lower their energy costs, and buy, repair, build and rent affordable places to call home. The Rural Data Gateway supports USDA’s mission to expand public access to Federal government data as required by the Open, Public, Electronic, and Necessary Government Data Act of 2018.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 6, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Key Happenings the Newsroom Is Tracking for the Week of Feb. 5-11 OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Feb. 5. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. February WASDE report: It's grain report week, and we'll have both a preview on Monday, Feb. 6, and then immediate reporting on the February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE). DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman's preview will be up Monday to kick off the week. We'll begin coverage of Wednesday's (Feb. 8) report around 11:00 a.m. CST, immediately after the report is released by USDA. As usual, we'll update our report story throughout the morning with additional analysis and details. Hultman's monthly WASDE Webinar begins at 12:30 p.m. 2. South American Crop: We're continuing to watch weather conditions and crop reports from South America, as those near-term updates will likely not be fully accounted for in the WASDE report. To keep up with DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick's global weather outlook, 3. Fertilizer continues to trend lower: We're now a month into the downtrend in fertilizer prices, especially most forms of nitrogen. DTN Staff Reporter Russ Quinn, who leads our fertilizer pricing and outlook coverage, reported this past week that overall nitrogen fertilizer cash prices were 9% lower than the previous month. Watch for the latest numbers Feb. 8. DTN paid subscribers can also find details on fertilizer prices in our fuels and fertilizers areas of our products. 4. River levels still a concern: Despite some precipitation across the Mississippi River valley, the heavy amounts stayed in the South and haven't lifted low water conditions in the nation's biggest water highway. Levels at St. Louis are still at -2 feet, or 2 feet below the "zero gauge" standard. Flood stage in St. Louis is +30 feet. The river level at Memphis has been around +14 feet; the flood stage there is +34 feet. 5. Cattle markets still chewing on herd size: While the week will be a quiet one for cattle reports, DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart will continue to watch the market's response to the latest beef cow herd numbers being the lowest since records began more than 50 years ago. WASDE corn demand numbers will also be responding to those new herd size numbers.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday February 6, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls for January and the monthly unemployment report at 7:30 a.m. CST, Friday's main attractions. Traders will watch over the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA has an export sale announcement. Weather A burst of arctic air with the polar vortex continues in the Midwest where some lake-effect snows are occurring. A front is finally being pushed out of the Southeast where showers continue for the day. While eastern areas are getting colder, the Plains are getting warmer as a ridge of high pressure spreads eastward. The next system is moving into the West Coast, which will have implications east of the Rockies for next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 3, 2023 |
CattleFax Forecast for Producer Profitability in 2023 The CattleFax Outlook Seminar at the annual Cattle Industry Convention in New Orleans dug into expert market and weather analysis for the coming year. Prices and profitability will again favor cattle producers in 2023. The cattle industry came into the year with the smallest cattle supply since 2015, as drought caused the industry to dig deeper into the supply of feeder cattle and calves. While drought relief is up in the air, improvements are also expected to translate to moderating feed costs, especially in the second half of this year. Combined with increased cattle prices, producers, especially the cow-calf operators, will continue to see improvement in margins for the next several years. Kevin Good, Vice President of Industry Relations for CattleFax, says U.S. beef cow cattle inventories are down 1.5 million head from cycle highs. “Drought improvement and higher cattle prices should slow beef cow culling through this year,” Good says. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Reinstates Ethanol Import Tariff Brazil’s Foreign Trade Chamber reinstated the 18 percent import tariff on ethanol, making U.S. imports less price competitive in the country. The recent zero percent import tariff got put in place last year by Brazil’s former president to help fight rising inflation. The current administration let the zero percent tariff expire on February 1. SP Global says the 18 percent import tax will protect Brazil’s domestic ethanol producers, especially those in the north and northeast regions. Multiple sources say the move reduces competitively-priced ethanol imported from abroad. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock said in an official statement that the increased import tax will also have a minimal impact on the end-user in Brazil. Last year, Brazil imported 312 million liters of ethanol, and the U.S. supplied 65 percent of total ethanol imports. Brazil extended the current exemption for federal taxes on fuel for the first 60 days of 2023. *********************************************************************************** Study Finds Consumers Want Protein Source Transparency Merck Animal Health announced the results of its first-ever consumer transparency research study. It finds that two-thirds of consumers say transparency in animal protein is extremely or very important. The study focused on consumers’ growing interest in transparency and its importance in purchasing decisions and brand trust. Two-thirds of the survey respondents say transparency in animal proteins is extremely or very important and the reasons are personal, with health and nutrition topping that list. Also, 86 percent of consumers who said transparency is important also ranked traceability as extremely or very important, and 40 percent of those consumers want to know where the livestock comes from. More than 50 percent of the respondents said they were willing to pay a five percent premium for transparency on the label and want more information than ever about how their food is grown and raised to make informed decisions at the grocery store. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Designed to Protect U.S. Ag from Foreign Adversaries The bipartisan Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security (PASS) Act was introduced in both congressional chambers. It will protect U.S. national security by preventing foreign adversaries from taking any ownership or control of agricultural land and businesses in the United States. The bill will also ensure the USDA is fully involved in reviewing any acquisition of American companies by foreign adversaries that could affect the agricultural sector. Specifically, China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are prohibited from buying agricultural land and companies in the U.S. It also adds the Ag Secretary as a standing member of the U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment. Congressman Rick Crawford, a co-sponsor, says, “Reports of entities ultimately controlled by the Chinese Communist Party buying American farmland and agricultural companies validate the need for a more proactive posture in protecting our agriculture sector from foreign threats.” Congressman Jim Costa says protecting the food supply is a national security issue. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Reacts to First Senate Ag Farm Bill Hearing The National Pork Producers Council applauded the first farm bill hearing in the 118th Congress. The organization is pleased the Senate Ag Committee is taking up issues important to the pork industry. In 2021, the U.S. exported 8.1 billion dollars worth of pork to more than 100 countries, which increased the average value of each pig marketed by nearly 63 dollars. Those exports also support more than 10,000 jobs in America. “Congress must provide strong investments in both the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development Program,” the NPPC said in a statement. “A wide swath of U.S. agricultural companies have utilized these export promotion programs, generating a net return of almost 25 dollars for every dollar spent and creating 225,800 full-and-part-time jobs across the U.S. economy.” The NPPC is also looking forward to working with members of Congress while developing a farm bill that benefits producers and every American. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Picks the Beef Advocate of the Year Tucker Brown, a Texas beef producer, is the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s 2022 Advocate of the Year. The award recognizes Brown for his creative use of storytelling across social media platforms, along with continuing his family’s legacy as a sixth-generation cattle rancher. Brown says his farm gate is always open, and he doesn’t hesitate to answer hard questions about the beef industry. “Our goal is to help consumers understand where their food comes from and develop a deeper trust in us,” he says. Brown creates social media content that bridges the gap between consumers and producers, reaching millions of people. He has more than 176,000 followers on TikTok and 52,000 followers on Instagram. On average, Brown gets a combined five-to-six million views per month on his videos and uses his influence to show what it’s like to raise beef. “I think it’s more important than ever to tell our story,” he says.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday February 3, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls for January and the monthly unemployment report at 7:30 a.m. CST, Friday's main attractions. Traders will watch over the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA has an export sale announcement. Weather A burst of arctic air with the polar vortex continues in the Midwest where some lake-effect snows are occurring. A front is finally being pushed out of the Southeast where showers continue for the day. While eastern areas are getting colder, the Plains are getting warmer as a ridge of high pressure spreads eastward. The next system is moving into the West Coast, which will have implications east of the Rockies for next week.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 2, 2023 |
NCGA Shares Potential Consequences of Mexican Corn Ban Corn growers told Congressional members and their staffs they must hold the line over Mexico’s proposed ban on imports of GMO corn. During a congressional briefing, members of the National Corn Growers Association said if that ban takes effect, it will block most U.S. corn imports into Mexico and be a significant blow to the American economy. Mexico’s president plans to implement a decree banning biotech corn from coming into Mexico in early 2024. The vast majority of U.S. corn is biotech. “This decree would cut most American growers off from what has historically been our largest export market,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (Hayg). “That’s why U.S. officials must continue to ensure that Mexico lives up to its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” NCGA hosted the congressional briefing on the one-year mark from the decree’s effective date. The ban would cause the U.S. economy to lose $73.8 billion over ten years. *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Would Improve the Conservation Reserve Program Senators John Thune of South Dakota and Minnesota’s Amy Klobuchar reintroduced the Conservation Reserve Program Improvement Act. A Republican and Democrat, respectively, the bill bolsters the CRP by improving access to grazing, maximizing enrollment options for producers, and addressing implementation issues following the 2018 Farm Bill. “After hearing from South Dakotans, it’s clear that we need to keep working to ensure that CRP continues to be an effective option for producers and landowners,” Thune says. Among the improvements, the bill would increase the CRP annual payment limitation from $50,000, established in 1985, to $125,000 to account for inflationary and rising land value pressures and provide more enrollment options. “The Conservation Reserve Program helps equip our farmers with tools to conserve and improve soil, water quality, and wildlife habitat,” Klobuchar says. “This bipartisan legislation makes commonsense improvements to the CRP that will strengthen conservation practices and boost enrollment in this vital program. *********************************************************************************** New Venture to Develop SAS Using Ethanol United Airlines formed a joint venture to develop and then commercialize a Sustainable Aviation Fuel technology using ethanol as the feedstock. United Airlines, Tallgrass, and Green Plains will invest up to a combined $50 million in the venture. The venture is called Blue Blade Technology and will produce up to 135 million gallons of ethanol-based SAS annually. Green Car Congress Dot Com says if the technology is successful, Blue Blade will begin building a pilot facility in 2024, followed by a full-scale facility that could begin operating in 2028. The agreement could provide enough sustainable aviation fuel to fly more than 50,000 flights every year between United’s hub airports in Chicago and Denver. If the technology is commercialized, the location of Blue Blade’s first plant would allow easier access to low-carbon feedstock from Green Plains’ Midwest ethanol production facilities. The technology will eventually work with any alcohol-based feedstock as a fuel source. *********************************************************************************** Report Shows Strong Demand Continuing for U.S. Beef The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association released its “Today’s Beef Consumer” report, and it shows beef demand continues to remain strong. Despite various challenges faced by the industry, consumers have repeatedly stated that they will continue buying beef in both the retail and foodservice settings. Compiling research from last year, the report shows more than two-thirds of consumers reportedly eat beef on a weekly basis or even more than that. Inflation is top-of-mind when shopping for food, and more than three-quarters of consumers reported an increase in the price of food, whether at retail or foodservice. While it was no surprise that beef sales at foodservice dropped sharply in 2020 and 2021, sales in 2022 rebounded in both volume and dollars, surpassing the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. During COVID, consumers were forced to cook from home, and many continue to do so as a way to stretch dollars and combat inflation. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Announces Policy Priorities The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association released its policy priorities for 2023. The priorities focus on advancing animal disease preparedness, protecting voluntary conservation programs, and defending producers from regulatory overreach. “Our focus is helping to create opportunity for America’s cattle producers and fighting to make sure the federal government does not damage our industry,” says NCBA President-Elect Todd Wilkinson. “One of the biggest opportunities to help cattle producers in the coming year is passing the 2023 Farm Bill with continued investment in our national vaccine bank to protect the U.S. cattle herd.” Other priorities include protecting and funding EQIP, CSP, and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize science-based, active management of natural resources. NCBA also wants to protect the cattle industry from regulatory attacks under the Waters of the United States, the Endangered Species Act, emissions reporting, and more. “We’re laser-focused on reducing the risk of a potential foreign animal disease,” Wilkinson adds. *********************************************************************************** Americans Will Eat 1.45 Billion Chicken Wings During the Super Bowl The National Chicken Council released its annual Chicken Wing Report, projecting Americans will eat a record-breaking 1.45 billion chicken wings during Super Bowl weekend. The figure represents an increase of two percent from last year’s report, the equivalent of 84 million more wings than in 2022. NCC Spokesperson Tom Super says, “The two main reasons for the increase are more favorable prices and more people getting back to normal and gathering for the Big Game, whether at home or a bar or restaurant.” Despite inflation, both wholesale and retail wing prices are down double digits from a year ago, according to USDA, and consumers are seeing a lot more features and promotions. That many wings laid end-to-end would stretch from Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia about 62 times. It would also give four wings each to every man, woman, and child in the United States.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday February 2, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a report on fourth-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report is at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain interested in the latest weather reports, especially from South America and in any news of an export sale. Weather A stalled front continues to be active across the south with rounds of showers on Thursday. It is still cold enough for a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and some snow in these areas. Across the north, the last arctic cold blast is moving into the North-Central U.S. The cold will be intense but only for a day or so. The cold will slide over to the Northeast tonight and cold air over the Great Lakes will induce lake-effect snows. Those should be as brief as the cold air that moves through.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 1, 2023 |
USTR Announces Dispute Settlement Panel Request with Canada U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai Tuesday announced the second dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement regarding Canada’s dairy tariff-rate quota allocation measures. The United States is challenging Canada’s revised dairy TRQ allocation measures that use a market-share approach for determining TRQ allocations. Through these measures, Canada undermines the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA, according to USTR. Ambassador Tai says, “Although the United States won a previous USMCA dispute on Canada’s dairy TRQ allocation policies, the Canadian government’s revised measures have not fixed the problem.” National Milk Producers Federation president and CEO Jim Mulhern responded, "USTR's action is an important step in righting this wrong and sending a message that the U.S. will fight violations of trade deals in Canada and wherever else they may be committed." If the panel confirms that Canada has violated its obligations under USMCA, the U.S. would be granted the right to impose retaliatory duties. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Pilot Cattle Contracts Library The Department of Agriculture Tuesday launched the Cattle Contract Library pilot program. USDA says the pilot library will provide new disclosure to the industry and public regarding the key terms, conditions, and volumes under which cattle are contracted. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022 directed USDA to create a pilot library to increase market transparency for cattle producers. The library will have the same look and feel as the working library model developed and shared with stakeholders last year but will now be populated with information from active contracts. The initial release of the library will allow users to browse a range of terms and information contained in active contracts used to purchase fed cattle. National Cattlemen's Beef Association Government Affairs Government Affairs Tanner Beymer responded, “We have been looking forward to the launch of the Cattle Contract Library pilot program and will review the product to determine if its current format provides value to cattle producers.” *********************************************************************************** FDA Proposes Redesign of Human Foods Program The Food and Drug Administration Tuesday proposed a redesign of the Human Foods Program to enhance coordinated prevention and response activities. The proposal includes a transformative vision for the Office of Regulatory Affairs, FDA's field-based operations. The proposed structures for both groups will have clear priorities focused on protecting and promoting a safe, nutritious U.S. food supply that more quickly adapts to an ever-changing and evolving environment, according to USDA. The proposed structures for both groups will have clear priorities focused on protecting and promoting a safe, nutritious U.S. food supply that more quickly adapts to an ever-changing and evolving environment. Creating a Human Foods Program under a single leader who reports directly to the Commissioner unifies and elevates the program while removing redundancies. The Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Food Policy and Response, and certain functions of ORA will be unified into a newly envisioned organization called the Human Foods Program. *********************************************************************************** Ukraine’s Exports Recover Under Black Sea Grain Initiative USDA's Economic Research Service reports Ukraine's corn and wheat exports have almost returned to seasonal-average levels since the summer of 2022. The change follows the Black Sea Grain Initiative to reopen the Black Sea shipping routes. Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 led to elevated security risks and infrastructure damage, causing Ukraine's seaports to be almost completely cut off from March through July. As global exportable supplies diminished, international wheat export prices spiked. Signed in July 2022, the Black Sea agreement enabled the safe passage of Ukraine grain exports through three ports. That and ample corn and wheat stocks allowed Ukraine to export a larger combined volume of the two crops than the five-year average in September and October. The Black Sea Grain Initiative has increased the opportunities for Ukrainian grain to leave the country and has relieved some price pressures internationally, but uncertainty remains as the agreement is set to expire in mid-March 2023 and may not be extended. *********************************************************************************** Six of Seven States Agree on Colorado Water Management Six states that rely on water from the Colorado River Basin recently reached an agreement regarding a model to drastically cut water use in the basin. Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, and Nevada, "did exactly what we needed," according to Colorado Senator Michael Bennet. However, the agreement doesn't include California, the largest water user from the basin, which plans to release its own water use plan. In a letter to the Bureau of Reclamation, the six states admitted, "Over the past twenty-plus years, there is simply far less water flowing into the Colorado River system than the amount that leaves it, and that we have effectively run out of storage to deplete.” The states asked the Bureau of Reclamation to review their proposal as it seeks drought mitigation guidelines. Bennet says California not joining the effort was disappointing, adding, “For too long, the other six states, and particularly the Upper Basin, have carried the burden of this historic drought.” *********************************************************************************** Commodity Classic Registration up 28% Farmers across the country are getting excited for the 2023 Commodity Classic, which has just announced registration is up 28 percent over last year's event in New Orleans. The 2023 Commodity Classic will be held March 9-11 in Orlando. Attendee surveys indicate that networking with other farmers is one of the top reasons producers enjoy Commodity Classic. Hallway conversations and in-person connections are an important part of the educational experience at Commodity Classic, as farmers share their knowledge, passion, and insight with colleagues from across the nation. 2023 Commodity Classic co-chair George Goblish of Minnesota says, “Thousands of America’s best farmers from across the nation love Commodity Classic because we share a passion for agriculture, a thirst for knowledge, and we’re all interested in how we can make our farms more profitable.” The 2023 Commodity Classic includes a lineup of educational sessions, inspiring speakers, a trade show, entertainment, and a range of technology, innovation, and agronomic information. Discover more at CommodityClassic.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday February 1, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Wednesday is the first of February, the day the ground hog is expected to come out and raise the federal funds rate by another quarter-percent. The Federal Reserve will make the ceremony official at 1 p.m. CST. Before that, there will be several manufacturing indices reported from around the world and the U.S. will get its turn at 9 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department releases its weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production. South American weather and crop conditions continue to get a lot of trader attention. Weather A stalled front across the South and Southeast remains active on Wednesday with periods of showers from Texas and Oklahoma eastward. It remains cold enough on the northern end for a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and maybe some snow from Texas and Oklahoma into the Tennessee Valley. Temperatures farther north are still cold, but higher than yesterday for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 31, 2023 |
Senate Ag Leaders Urge USTR to Hold Canada Accountable Under USMCA Leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee urge the U.S. Trade Representative to hold Canada accountable under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Senators Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, and John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican, say Canada is obligated by USMCA to provide market access to American dairy farmers. Despite numerous rounds of consultation and an initial dispute settlement panel ruling in January 2022, Canada continues to reserve parts of its tariff-rate quota allocations for domestic processors, undermining importers' market access. In a letter to Ambassador Katherine Tai, the Senators call on USTR to initiate a second dispute settlement panel to hold Canada accountable to its market access obligations to American dairy farmers. There has been no improvement in Canada's TRQ administration despite the USTR’s continued engagement. The Senators write, “To bring Canada into compliance with its commitments to U.S. dairy producers, we urge USTR to move forward with a second dispute settlement case to implement USMCA’s dairy provisions fully and properly to increase U.S. dairy market access.” *********************************************************************************** 2022 Census of Agriculture Deadline Nears The deadline to respond to the 2022 Census of Agriculture is next week. USDA's National Agri Statistics Service says farmers and ranchers must respond by February 6 online or through the mail. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, "By participating in the 2022 Census of Agriculture, producers show the value and importance of American agriculture." Last month, NASS mailed the Census of Agriculture questionnaires to every known ag producer in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Conducted just once every five years, the ag census provides a complete account of the nation's farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by federal law, and law requires NASS to keep all individual operations' information confidential, use the data for statistical purposes only, and publish the data in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation. Producers can respond online at agcounts.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces $2.7 Billion in Rural Electric Infrastructure Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced a $2.7 billion investment to help 64 electric cooperatives and utilities. The funding from the Department of Agriculture will help the cooperatives expand and modernize the nation’s rural electric grid and increase grid security. Vilsack says, “This funding will help rural cooperatives and utilities invest in changes that make our energy more efficient, more reliable, and more affordable.” The loans include $613 million to help rural utilities and cooperatives install and upgrade smart grid technologies. Smart grid can be a catalyst for broadband and other telecommunications services in unserved and underserved rural areas, in addition to improving grid security and reliability. Nearly half of the awards will help finance infrastructure improvements in underserved communities. USDA's Electric Loan Program can help finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, as well as improvements to produce cleaner energy from coal-fired plants. In the coming months, USDA will announce additional energy infrastructure financing. *********************************************************************************** State Attorneys General Seek Year-Round E-15 Last week, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird led a bipartisan coalition of seven Attorneys General urging the Biden Administration to follow the law and allow the sale of year-round E-15. Federal law permits Governors to request that the EPA issue the regulations allowing E15 and requires the EPA to issue the regulations within 90 days. The sale of E15 has been restricted during the summer peak-driving months due to an outdated provision of the Clean Air Act. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds led a bipartisan coalition of Governors making the request on April 22, 2022, but the EPA still has not issued the regulation as required by law. Earlier this month, Governor Reynolds, again wrote to the Biden Administration reiterating her request that the mandatory regulations be issued in response to their request. Attorney General Bird and the Attorneys General of Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin signed the letter to the White House and the Environmental Protection Agency. *********************************************************************************** American Dairy Coalition Sets 2023 Policy Priorities American Dairy Coalition, a grassroots dairy farmer-led organization with diverse geographic representation, recently announced federal policy priorities and an action plan for 2023. American Dairy Coalition CEO Laurie Fischer says, “Our ongoing efforts have been focused on raising awareness of short- and long-term challenges.” One key short-term priority is to see the Class I milk price 'mover' returned to its previous 'higher of' formula in the 2023 Farm Bill. For the long-term, the coalition seeks a national Farm Bill hearing on the sustainability of Federal Milk Marketing Orders. Fischer says, “The systemic issues of declining fluid milk sales and declining FMMO participation create instability and uncertainty for dairy farmers.” ADC also supports restoring whole milk in federal nutrition programs like National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs and WIC. This includes exempting nutrient-dense foods like whole milk from the fat limits the Dietary Guidelines impose on nutrition programs and dairy checkoff promotions. *********************************************************************************** Rotational Grazing Adoption Varies by Region Data published Monday by USDA’s Economic Research Service shows rotational grazing adoption varies by region. Rotational grazing is a management practice in which livestock are cycled through multiple fenced grazing areas to manage forage production, forage quality, animal health, and environmental quality. In a recent study, USDA researchers found the highest rate of total rotational grazing adoption, at 49 percent of operations, in the Northern Plains and Western Corn Belt region. The lowest participation level, at 25 percent, were operations in the Southern Plains region. Basic rotational grazing was more common than intensive rotational grazing in all but one region. USDA says the exception was the Appalachian region, where 25 percent of cow-calf operations used intensive rotational grazing, and 22 percent used basic rotational grazing. Major drivers for regional differences in adoption could include varying forage types, which may respond better to rotational grazing than others, and differing climates.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 31, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, the U.S. Labor Department will release its employment cost index for the fourth quarter, a factor for the Fed to consider in this week's meeting. At 9 a.m., the Conference Board's index of U.S. consumer confidence will be out, followed by USDA's Jan. 1 cattle inventory at 2 p.m., anticipating a 3% or 4% annual decline. Weather A sharp cold front remains across the southern states on Tuesday, which will continue to be active. Showers are already moving through this morning and more will develop later today from Texas and Oklahoma eastward to Virginia and points south. Behind the front it is very cold with another day of well below-normal temperatures. The cold will cause another day of freezing rain, snow, and sleet accumulation in some areas of the South-Central states.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 30, 2023 |
Senators Ask White House for Enforcement Actions on USMCA The top members of the Senate’s Finance Committee sent a letter to the White House asking the administration to pursue enforcement action against Canada and Mexico under the USMCA. Inside Trade says they’re concerned about areas where Canada and Mexico aren’t complying with the agreement’s rules, especially around energy and agriculture. Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo (CRAY-po), the top Democrat and Republican on the committee, sent the letter saying, “The Office of the USTR must continue pursuing full implementation and, where necessary, robust enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” They also noted that the pact’s full potential remains unrealized. Wyden and Crapo highlighted the current dispute with Mexico over its policy regarding GMO corn imports, as well as Canadian failure to comply with the rules regarding tariff-rate quotas on dairy products. The U.S. recently requested dispute-settlement consultations for a third time regarding Canada’s dairy policy. U.S. and Mexican discussions recently continued last week. *********************************************************************************** Reaction to Bronaugh’s Decision to Step Down from USDA Post USDA Deputy Secretary Jewell Bronaugh announced she’ll be leaving her post at the end of February. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says his organization has enjoyed working with the deputy secretary for the last two years of her tenure with the agency. “We want to thank her for her service to America’s farmers and ranchers,” Duvall says. “She has long been someone who understands the needs of farmers and rural communities. We’ve appreciated her leadership and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.” House Ag Committee Ranking Democrat David Scott congratulated Bronaugh on a job well done. “Deputy Secretary Bronaugh’s time at the department was historic, serving as the first African American woman in the role,” Scott says. “During her time as Deputy, she uplifted American agriculture and our rural communities, something she’s long done throughout her career.” Scott also says she’s a champion for U.S. food and agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Organic Produce Sales Up Three Percent, Volume Down Four Percent Organic fresh produce sales grew by three percent last year while total volume dropped by 3.7 percent. The Organic Produce Network says total sales topped $9.4 billion for the year. The 2022 Organic Produce Performance Report says the fresh berry category was the top organic produce category with more than 16 percent of organic fresh produce dollars in 2022. Fresh berry sales topped $1.6 billion for the year, with organic packed salads a close second at $1.55 billion. Total fresh produce sales gained 7.3 percent in dollars during the year but dropped 1.3 percent in volume from the prior year. During 2022, 13 of the top 20 organic produce categories by total sales posted increases in dollars, with organic onions generating the largest increase at 15.4 percent. That increase was followed by cucumbers, potatoes, and avocados. Organic performance in 2022 was consistent across the nation as dollars grew and volume declined. *********************************************************************************** Energy Department Allocates $118 Million to Biofuel Projects Late last week, the Department of Energy announced $118 million in funding to help expand U.S. biofuel production. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the funds will undoubtedly accelerate the innovations taking place at U.S. ethanol plants. “It will open many new opportunities for low-cost, low-carbon energy,” Skor says. She also points out that the president himself has said there will be no achieving the goal of net zero by 2050 without biofuels, and the announcement shows that the DOE is committed to that mission. “We are excited to see new technologies scaled up with these funds, particularly the work underway at Marquis, Inc., a Growth Energy member that received $8 million for a project that combines CO2 with low-carbon hydrogen to create a new production stream of extra-low-carbon ethanol.” A project like that will end up slashing carbon emissions by at least 70 percent or more compared to petroleum-based alternatives. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wants WTO Dispute System Fixed by 2024 The U.S. is currently in a third round of talks to redo the World Trade Organization’s trade dispute arbitration system. The U.S. Ambassador to the WTO told Reuters that America wants it to be fully up and running by the end of 2024. The WTO’s appeals bench rules on top disputes among nations. It’s been out of service for two years due to U.S. appointment blockages put in place during the Trump Administration. The current administration has resisted calls by WTO members to approve the appointments and has been leading the negotiations on how to redo the dispute system. Asked if it was even possible to revive the Appellate Body, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Maria Pagan didn’t say no. “It needs a lot of revamping,” she says. The U.S. has criticized the WTO’s alleged overreach and lengthy processes, and it strongly contested some of the WTO’s recent rulings against America. *********************************************************************************** Corn Sales to Overseas Buyers Drops 20 Percent The U.S. Department of Agriculture says export sales of corn fell in the seven days that ended on January 19, while soybean and wheat sales improved. During the week, corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 910,400 metric tons, a 20 percent drop week-to-week but up 46 percent over the prior four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 407,000 metric tons, followed by Columbia. Exports for the week came in at 912,000 metric tons, up 28 percent from the previous week. Soybean sales rose 16 percent week-to-week and 53 percent from the average to 1.15 million metric tons. China bought more than 940,000 metric tons, with the Netherlands a distant second at 67,100 tons. Exports for the week hit 1.9 million metric tons, down eight percent from the previous week. Wheat sales were up six percent over the prior week and 84 percent from the previous four-week average. Exports dropped 15 percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 30, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to South America's weather reports and forecasts and any outside news that might have occurred. There will also be interest in how cold temperatures got in the southwestern Plains. USDA's weekly report on export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CST. Traders are also aware the Fed is expected to raise the federal funds target by 0.25% on Wednesday. Weather Very cold air in association with an arm of the polar vortex continues to settle into much of the Plains and western half of the Midwest Monday. The cold threatens livestock and any exposed wheat. The front is hung up from Texas to the Ohio Valley and periods of showers will develop along and behind the front over the next few days as it slowly sinks farther southeast this week. That will induce some wintry mix of freezing rain and snow across the Southern Plains up into the eastern Midwest over the next 24 hours.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 27, 2023 |
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh to Step Down Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children." *********************************************************************************** Retail Food Price Inflation in 2022 Surpassed 2021 Rates Food-at-home prices increased by 11.4 percent in 2022, more than three times the rate in 2021 of 3.5 percent, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. The increase was also much faster than the two percent historical annual average from 2002 to 2021. All food categories except beef and veal grew faster in 2022 than in 2021. In 2022, price increases surpassed ten percent for food at home and for nine food categories. Egg prices grew at the fastest rate ,2.2 percent, after an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza throughout 2022. Prices for fats and oils increased by 18.5 percent, largely because of higher dairy and oilseed prices. Prices also rose for poultry, 14.6 percent, and other meats, 14.2 percent. Elevated prices for wholesale flour and eggs contributed to a 13.0-percent price increase for cereals and bakery products. Prices for beef and veal, fresh vegetables and fresh fruits rose more slowly, but all categories exceeded their historical averages. *********************************************************************************** Report: Brazil Soybean Crop up 18% From Last Year Industry Economists expect the harvest of a large soybean crop in Brazil in the next 30 to 45 days. AgResource predicts USDA and others will be forced to raise Brazilian soybean production estimates by one million to three million tons, or 37 million to 110 million bushels. A crop of at least 150 million tons versus 129.5 million last year is guaranteed, according to their research. AgResource's final yield estimate in Mato Grosso, by far the country's largest producing state, is 60.3 bushels per acre after revisiting possible harvest losses and disease pressure. This is eight bushels per acre more than Brazil’s CONAB current forecast. There will be yield loss in the far south of Brazil, but yield gains in Mato Grosso and surrounding states will more than offset any yield hit. Harvest losses will likely result from new incurable diseases. But there is very little doubt a massive Brazilian soybean crop will be available to the global marketplace in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Research Identifies $400 Million in Unrealized Soybean Value A new partnership aims to increase soybean flower and pod retention. This unrealized value could bring $50 per acre or $400 million in economic return for U.S. soybean farmers, according to the United Soybean Board. The collaborative focus will test how heat and drought impact flower bud retention. Flower production dictates the final pod number and, ultimately, yield in soybeans. The Atlantic Soybean Council, Mid-South Soybean Board, North Central Soybean Research Program, Southern Soybean Research Program and United Soybean Board all agree this is a priority issue impacting the entire industry. Although flower retention is a leading cause of soybean yield loss in the U.S., no organized effort exists to address it. Farmers experience about 30 percent of flower loss under favorable conditions and up to 80 percent under drought and heat stress. Texas Tech University, in collaboration with Kansas State University, the University of Missouri and the University of Tennessee, will lead the research on this national effort. *********************************************************************************** First All-Steel Swine Barns to Provide Improved Efficiency and Animal Health A new sow complex is now under construction featuring the first prefabricated steel swine barns in the United States. Compared to traditional wood structures, the steel buildings are designed to offer a more biosecure, flame-retardant and energy-efficient environment for pigs, while also being more durable and faster to build. The 12,000-head sow facility is scheduled for completion this summer in South Dakota. The steel building package, designed by C-Lines, is being provided by AP, AGCO’s swine equipment brand. AP dealer Ag Property Solutions is constructing the barns, which will be managed by Pipestone Management. The all-steel buildings offer increased construction speed and efficiency, increased building strength, energy efficiency, better biosecurity, along with being easily transported as a prefabricated structure. The new facility is the largest sow complex ever constructed by Ag Property Solutions, with a footprint of up to 55 acres. It includes a 187,500-square-foot farrowing barn and gilt developer unit and a 225,000-square-foot gestation barn that incorporate the steel panels. *********************************************************************************** FFA to Participate in the Advancing Racial Equity Community of Practice Initiative The National FFA Organization Thursday announced its participation in a new community of practice with other nonprofit organizations focused on advancing racial equity. Over the next six months, leaders in the National FFA Organization will work with The Bridgespan Group to strengthen their approach to advancing racial equity internally and externally. The Advancing Racial Equity Community of Practice, led by The Bridgespan Group, is funded by the Walmart Foundation. The funding will assist in supporting FFA to collaborate with others to share best practices and learnings on their work to prioritize equity. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “By partnering with other nonprofits through this initiative, we can expand our capacity to seek and promote inclusion and diversity in our membership.” FFA is participating in the cohort alongside nine organizations: American Red Cross, Center for the Future of Arizona, Education Design Lab, Goodwill Industries International, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, Team Rubicon, The Recycling Partnership, Winrock International, and World Wildlife Fund.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 27, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, an indicator of inflation watched by the Fed. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment follows at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts, especially in South America. Weather A clipper system moving through the Upper Midwest is dragging a cold front through the North-Central U.S. Friday. Breezy winds continue near the storm center in the Upper Midwest. Cold air over Canada will gradually fill in behind the front later in the day, resulting in well-below normal temperatures for the weekend. In addition to the cold, the front will be bringing scattered snows, some of which may be heavier near the northern Rockies and also near the South Dakota-Nebraska border through Friday night.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 26, 2023 |
Senate Ag Plans Hearings on Farm Bill Trade and Horticulture Titles The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. "Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room. *********************************************************************************** Lawsuit Against FDA Targets Antibiotics Use in Livestock Public health advocacy groups filed a lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration this week. The groups say the lawsuit challenges the refusal to phase out unnecessary uses of antibiotics in animal agriculture. The groups include the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Food Animal Concerns Trust, Public Citizen and Earthjustice. They allege that approximately two-thirds of medically important antibiotics sold in the U.S. are for use in food-producing animals and are often administered to healthy animals to compensate for the higher risk of infections typically caused by cramped, unsanitary or stressful conditions. The lawsuit claims that the misuse of these medicines has contributed to the rise and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Steven Roach of Food Animal Concerns Trust says, "The FDA has allowed giant meat companies to habitually overuse antibiotics putting everyone's health at risk," adding, "This is absolutely unnecessary as animals raised under healthy conditions do not need routine antibiotics." *********************************************************************************** Substantial Consolidation in Retail Food Market Since 1990 The U.S. food retail sector experienced substantial consolidation over the last three decades, according to data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. Market concentration, as measured by the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, is a measure of the extent to which market shares are concentrated between firms of the retail food sector at the national, state, metropolitan statistical area, and county levels. The analysis includes all establishments with a significant portion of food sales that are likely substitutes for each other: supermarkets and other grocery and warehouse clubs and supercenters. Although the national market is less concentrated than the average State level, according to the HHI, national market concentration increased substantially between 1990 and 2019 at 458 percent. In comparison, average county-level market concentration has remained relatively constant over the past 30 years, increasing only 94 percent. While national measures provide information about larger trends, trends in localized markets are likely more relevant for consumers, food-retail competitors, and policymakers, according to USDA. *********************************************************************************** Organic Farmers Association Applauds Additional Assistance for Dairy Farmers The Organic Farmers Association welcomes this week's announcement of emergency financial relief to organic dairy farmers by the Department of Agriculture. The association has called on lawmakers and the Biden administration to help offset the high cost of production. USDA's Farm Service Agency fulfilled the mandate on time, announcing plans to distribute funding on Monday, January 23. The newly announced Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program will be administered by USDA's Farm Service Agency and will cover up to 75 percent of projected 2023 marketing costs for eligible organic dairy producers - targeting small and mid-sized operations. Organic Farmers Association Executive Director Kate Mendenhall says, "We applaud Congress for prioritizing family farms in crisis and prioritizing this emergency relief." New York organic dairy farmer Liz Bawden adds, "Organic dairies have had a very difficult two years, and this relief funding will hopefully make it to dairies in time to keep them in business." *********************************************************************************** World Food Prize Names Branstad as President The World Food Prize Foundation announces this week that former U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad will join the organization as its President. World Food Prize Foundation Chair Paul Schickler says, "We are excited to bring on a leader with both global vision and strong roots in agriculture.” Branstad was Iowa's longest-serving governor and holds the record as the longest-serving governor in the history of the United States. He held the office of Governor of Iowa from 1983 until 1999, and then again from 2011 until 2017, when he was appointed U.S. Ambassador to China. He is a partner with the Branstad Churchill Group, LLC. The World Food Prize is presented each year in Iowa to an individual for their achievements in improving the quality, quantity, and availability of food in the world. The $250,000 award is presented each October in a ceremony at the Iowa State Capitol that attracts global leaders and participants. *********************************************************************************** Consumer Brands Association Supports New Trucking Legislation The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 26, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as U.S. weekly jobs claims, the first estimate of fourth quarter U.S. GDP, December durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. December new home sales are out at 9 a.m., followed by U.S. natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather remains a big part of trader focus every day and export sales announcements have become more active lately. Weather Light snow continues behind a system across the eastern Midwest and Northeast Thursday. But the bigger story is a clipper system in the Canadian Prairies that will dive into northern Minnesota by Thursday evening. The system will bring scattered showers through both the Canadian Prairies and North-Central U.S. along with strong winds. Initially, temperatures will rise, but a strong cold front will pass down through the Canadian Prairies Thursday night and into the Northern Plains on Friday when temperatures will drop significantly.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 25, 2023 |
NCBA Sues Biden Administration to Overturn Lesser Prairie Chicken Listing The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association recently filed a Notice of Intent to sue the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. NCBA is planning the lawsuit over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. NCBA Associate Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johannes says, “The lesser prairie chicken only survives today because of the voluntary conservation efforts of ranchers,” adding, “There are numerous places where this listing goes seriously wrong and we are defending cattle producers against this overreaching, unscientific rule.” The listing was previously set to take effect at the end of January, but thanks to pressure on the Biden administration from NCBA and our allies in Congress, the rule was delayed by 60 days. The listing will now take effect on March 27, 2023, and the states included in the species’ range are Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Praise Biden Officials for Stance on Biotech Corn The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024. *********************************************************************************** Biden Again Nominates Dean and Schlanger to USDA President Joe Biden again nominated Margo Schlanger and Stacy Dean to politically appointed positions at the Department of Agriculture. Biden nominated Schlanger to serve as Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and Dean as Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. Both were nominated by the President to USDA during the last Congress but were not confirmed by the Senate. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says Dean’s commitment during her time at USDA and throughout her career “makes her the ideal person to serve as Under Secretary for FNCS.” Throughout her life and career, Schlanger has devoted herself to civil rights and to public service. At the Department of Homeland Security. Vilsack says, “Schlanger would be able to continue her commitment to public service and civil rights as we at USDA continually seek to fairly and equitably serve our employees and customers.” The nominations of Schlanger and Dean were part of a slate of political appointees announced this week by the White House. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Accounted for Largest Portion of US Animal Receipts in 2021 U.S. farm cash receipts from animals and animal products totaled $195.8 billion in 2021, led by receipts for cattle and calves at $72.9 billion, or 37 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that poultry and egg products made up the next largest share of 2021 cash receipts at $46.1 billion, or 24 percent, followed by dairy at $41.8 billion, or 21 percent, hogs at $28.0 billion or 14 percent, and other animals and animal products at $7.0 billion, at four percent. As part of its Farm Income and Wealth Statistics data product, in late August or early September each year, the Economic Research Service releases estimates of the prior year’s farm sector cash receipts from agricultural commodity sales. The data provided includes cash receipt estimates by type of commodity, which can help in understanding the U.S. farm sector. The estimates may be revised as new information becomes available. *********************************************************************************** IFEEDER Releases Materials to Support Industry Sustainability Progress The Institute for Feed Education and Research Tuesday released its Animal Food Industry Sustainability Toolkit. The toolkit is intended to drive continuous improvement in the full feed value chain. The Institute also shared its definition for “sustainability,” grounding the public charity’s next steps on its multifaceted Sustainability Road Map project. IFEEDER defined “sustainability” for the U.S. animal food industry as “defined and managed by each individual organization to deliver measurable, continuous improvements on the impacts related to people, planet and governance that are most important to them and their stakeholders.” Lara Moody, IFEEDER executive director, says, “We have provided an ‘on ramp’ for the industry to help achieve leadership buy-in and employee engagement so that sustainability becomes part of their corporate cultures and shapes future business decisions.” The toolkit materials, which are supported by 18 months of research and development, are grouped into three stages: people, planet and governance. The toolkit is free for AFIA members and IFEEDER donors at ifeeder.org. *********************************************************************************** New Guide Helps Farms, Rural Small Businesses Go Solar Solar United Neighbors Tuesday released a new guide to help farmers and rural small business owners apply for a key federal grant and loan. The guide will make it easier for rural Americans to install solar energy at their property. The comprehensive guide takes applicants step-by-step through the Rural Energy for America Program, or REAP, application process. The REAP program has been so popular that funding for the grants has not been able to meet the demand. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed last year, quadrupled REAP funding over the next ten years. Farmers and rural small business owners can receive loan guarantees of up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs through REAP. They can receive grants for up to 40 percent of the total project cost. Solar United Neighbors is hosting a free webinar February 2 to educate attendees about the REAP program and what steps they need to take to apply. Learn more at solarunitedneighbors.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 25, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Bank of Canada is expected to raise its interest rate by a quarter-percent early Wednesday, a prelude to a rate hike, expected from the Federal Reserve on February 1. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories is set for 9:30 a.m. CST, including ethanol production. Traders continue to keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts and will watch for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather A strong storm system that brought widespread precipitation to the Southern Plains on Tuesday continues toward the Northeast on Wednesday. A band of moderate to heavy snow has developed on the north side of the track, along and north of the Ohio River, while a line of showers and thunderstorms will move through the Southeast, some of which may be severe. Winds in the Southeast are fairly strong as well with gusts increasing into the 35-45 mph range in some areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 24, 2023 |
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Dairy Farmers The USDA announced additional assistance for U.S. dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program. The agency also announced a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. The moves will help USDA better support small- and medium-sized dairy operations that weathered COVID and now face other challenges. “USDA is announcing a second set of payments totaling almost $100 million to close out the $350 million commitment under the pandemic assistance program,” says USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “The funds will be released through partnerships with dairy handlers and cooperatives to deliver the payments.” USDA will also be releasing new assistance targeted to small- and medium-sized organic dairy farmers. The goal will be to help those producers with anticipated marketing costs as they face a variety of challenges from weather to supply-chain challenges. For more information on USDA assistance, go to farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Netherlands Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for its first-ever agricultural trade mission to Amsterdam, Netherlands, April 17-20. “Agribusiness producers, exporters, and growers in the U.S. may find the Netherlands to be a perfect gateway into Europe,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Participants will explore exporting opportunities in this mature market, which continues to grow, and meet potential buyers in surrounding regional markets.” U.S. ag and related exports to the Netherlands reached $3.4 billion in 2021, making it the tenth-largest global market. During the trade mission, U.S. participants will meet with buyers from the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Belgium, and Germany. For companies interested in expanding sales in the Netherlands and the other markets, export opportunities include oilseeds, fats, vegetables, oils, grains, pulses, and many other exports. The deadline to apply for the Netherlands trade mission is Thursday, January 26. For information, go to fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Alltech Shares Global Feed Production Survey Alltech released its 2023 Agri-Food Outlook today, highlighting global feed production survey data. Despite significant challenges that hit the entire supply chain, global feed production remained steady in 2022 at 1.266 billion metric tons. That’s a decrease of only one-half of one percent from 2021’s estimates. The top feed-producing countries during the past year were China at number one with 260.7 million metric tons, the U.S. in second at 240.4 MMT, and Brazil a distant third with 81.9 million. Together, the top ten feed-producing countries produced 64 percent of the total world production. Half the world’s feed consumption is concentrated in four areas, including China, the U.S., Brazil, and India. Vietnam jumped ahead of Argentina and Germany into the top ten in feed tonnage. Russia overtook Spain, which reported a significant reduction in feed production. Feed production increased in several regions, including Latin America, North America, and the Oceania countries. *********************************************************************************** Farm Futures 2023 Planting Survey Results A survey from Farm Futures shows the 2023 acreage battle is ongoing. However, there could be a surprise when it comes to the total number of corn and soybean acres. A surge in projected wheat acres and costly inputs will likely limit any expansion of corn and soybean acres. About 70 percent of the respondents said they were locked in on 2023 acreage decisions by late December. Farm Futures says corn and soybean plantings will increase only minimally compared to past projections due in large part to shrinking profit margins for both corn and soybeans. The survey shows that 90.5 million acres of corn and 88.9 million acres of soybeans will get planted in the spring. Soaring costs of inputs likely mean more wheat acres as wheat typically requires less nitrogen. Anhydrous ammonia retailed for about $1,400 per ton last fall, so many farmers opted for less nitrogen-intensive crops for 2023 plantings. *********************************************************************************** Argentina Rain Forecast too Late to Save Crops Hot and dry weather continues to damage crops in Argentina and southern Brazil. Last week was the third-hottest and the overall driest third week in January in more than 30 years for the main soybean-growing regions in Argentina. The drought stress has combined with extremely hot temperatures to significantly drop the expected corn and soybean yields in Argentina. Agriculture Dot Com says more rain is in the forecast during the coming weeks, but the bad news is that the rains are too late to help crops. Brazil saw near-normal precipitation during the last week in Mato Grosso, the top-producing state in Brazil. However, hot and dry conditions continue to damage expected yields in southern Brazil. Dryness is expected to stick around in southern Brazil, and this week may become one of the hottest and driest weeks in more than 30 years in Rio Grande do Sul near the southern border. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Down Three Percent 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 11.7 million on January 1. The inventory was three percent below January 1 of last year. That inventory included 7.03 million steers and steer calves, down four percent from the previous year. That group accounted for 60 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.65 million head, down one percent from 2022. Placements in feedlots during December totaled 1.8 million head, eight percent below 2021. Net placements were 1.75 million head. During December, placements of cattle and calves under 600 pounds were 435,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 435,000, 700-799 hit 415,000 head, and 800-899 pounds were 304,000 head. Marketings of fed cattle during December totaled 1.74 million head, six percent below last year. Other disappearances totaled 54,000 head in December, unchanged from 2021.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 24, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but judging from Monday's selling in grains, traders will remain focused on the latest weather reports and forecasts. Traders will also pause at 8 a.m. CST to see if USDA has another export sale to report after announcing 7.1 million bushels of soybeans to unknown destinations Monday. Outside markets may be an influence Tuesday with several big names expecting earning reports. Weather A strong storm is developing over Texas on Tuesday and will press northeast through Tuesday night, headed toward Memphis by early Wednesday morning. A batch of scattered showers and thunderstorms is developing with the system, including some moderate to heavy snow across the Texas Panhandle. That snow will extend up through Missouri later in the day and set up along and north of the Ohio River tonight. To the south, thunderstorms will produce moderate to heavy rain and have some potential for severe weather close to the Gulf of Mexico.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 23, 2023 |
Farm Group Wants Investigation Into Egg Prices A U.S. farm group is asking the Federal Trade Commission to look into the high prices of eggs and possible price gouging. Farm Action is a farmer-led advocacy organization that sent a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan to share their concerns over “apparent price gouging.” They point out that Americans are paying more than ever for an important household staple. The USDA says a recent record outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza is the reason for the high prices. The group says the nation’s top antitrust regulator must look into the record-high profits of the nation’s top egg company. Cal-Maine Foods controls 20 percent of the retail egg market and reported a quarterly sales increase of 110 percent. Gross profits are 600 percent higher than the same time last year. The company says avian flu is driving up prices. However, Cal-Maine had no positive flu tests on any of its farms. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Dairy Industry Eager for FMMO Reform America’s dairy producers and processors are closely watching discussions about the next farm bill and looking for reforms to Federal Milk Marketing Orders. CoBank says the industry feels that current FMMOs don’t reflect today’s market environment, and the consequences could be drastic. Make allowances are an important part of the orders that haven’t been updated since 2008 and were based on data from as far back as 2006. Make allowances estimate dairy processors’ costs of converting milk into dairy products. Many of those production costs, including labor and energy, have risen dramatically since make allowances were updated 15 years ago. While the current make allowances have stayed the same since 2008, prices for industrial power rose 64 percent, and labor costs in dairy manufacturing climbed 48 percent. While industrial natural gas prices have fallen 11 percent, they’ve been highly volatile during that time. Failing to update them could hinder future dairy industry growth. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Institute Names 2023 4R Advocates The Fertilizer Institute selected three farmers and their fertilizer retailers as 4R advocates. They’re being recognized for their commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices that incorporate the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship and have demonstrated economic and environmental benefits. Now in its 12th year, the 4R Advocate Program demonstrates the in-field successes of implementing 4R practices based on the right source, rate, time, and placement of fertilizer. “While 4R Nutrient Stewardship is a priority for the fertilizer industry, it’s also a tangible solution for thousands of farmers across America who are seeking fertilizer application practices that have a real-world impact on their bottom lines and their land,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. The 2023 class of advocates represent 13,770 acres across three states and grow corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and other crops. In 2021, the fertilizer industry committed to putting 70 million acres of cropland under 4R management by 2030. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Conference Begins Monday Clean Fuels Alliance America will kick off the Clean Fuels Conference on Monday, January 23 (today) at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida. The event runs through Thursday and will likely draw more than 725 registered participants, including agricultural interests, clean fuel producers, marketers, end users, and more. It’s the 20th annual industry conference formerly known as the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo. This is the first-ever Clean Fuels Conference. “Companies know consumers want to feel better about their purchases,” says Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Low-carbon transportation fuels in planes, trains, ships, and trucks will have to be the focus of their efforts.” The theme of this year’s conference is “United As One.” It’s designed to highlight the industry’s commitment to bringing together stakeholders to build a sustainable transportation future. The clean fuels industry set a goal of producing six billion gallons a year of sustainable fuels by 2030. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Releases New Strategic Plan The American Lamb Board released its fiscal year 2022 Annual Report to inform Mandatory Lamb Checkoff stakeholders of its work to mitigate outside forces and challenges and take advantage of opportunities ahead. “Even though many challenges were out of our control, it’s critical that we keep driving forward as hard as we can to promote American lamb and the U.S. sheep industry,” says ALB chair Peter Camino. ALB has also identified three primary goals as it turns to FY 2023. The first is to continue to grow consumer demand for American lamb. The second is to prioritize research and education efforts to improve product quality and consistency, increase productivity, and grow the year-round supply of lamb. The board also wants to expand the awareness, understanding, engagement, and involvement of stakeholders in the American Lamb Checkoff. “As the American lamb industry looks to the future, there are several areas of opportunity,” Camino says. *********************************************************************************** 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Announced The USDA and the Department of Health and Humans Services announced the appointment of 20 nationally recognized scientists to serve on the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. The Committee will review the current body of science on key nutrition topics and develop a scientific report that includes its independent assessment of the evidence and recommendations for USDA and HHS as they develop the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The dietary guidelines serve as the foundation for national nutrition programs, standards, and education. In addition, they provide health professionals with guidance and resources to assist the public in choosing an overall healthy diet that works for them. “Diet-related diseases are on the rise across all age groups, and we must rise to the challenge by providing nutrition guidance that people from all walks of life can tailor to meet their needs,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This will help Americans achieve better nutritional habits.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 23, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, especially for Argentina where drought-stricken crops have increased chances for rain. Traders may pause at 8 a.m. CST to see if USDA has an export sale to announce and will check USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. Weather Another strong storm system is moving through the Four Corners area early Monday morning. That system will move into Texas tonight and head through the Northeast for Tuesday and Wednesday. Widespread precipitation will occur in Texas and Oklahoma tonight, including some moderate to heavy snow.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 23, 2023 |
Top 5 Things to Watch - Key Happenings the Newsroom is Tracking for the Week of Jan. 22-28 1. Altered reality of wheat. As DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman discussed in Friday's Todd's Take, there's a growing disconnect between supply and demand forces and the actual price of wheat. With continued low soil moisture in major parts of the U.S. breadbasket, continued war in the Black Sea area, and already low wheat stocks, Hultman expects current $7-$8 cash wheat prices (based on DTN's national cash index) to get a reality check at some point. 2. Clipper blockers hang in there, for now. Our weather team is watching two trough systems work their way through Texas to the Northeast, bringing additional moisture to the central and eastern portions of the country. Depending on where your farm is, the first of those systems might be there as you read this. The second should be right behind it early in the week. Both include a band of snow, so winter is far from gone. But for some time now frigid cold weather has been absent. Unfortunately, chances for the next arctic blast will probably come late next week as the pattern allows cold air to come down from Canada. 3. Fueling around: Deep winter can be time to refill fuel tanks drained by the last of harvest, but global diesel market conditions have put the squeeze on those plans. DTN Ag Business Editor Katie Dehlinger will gather the latest experts' thoughts on near- to medium-term fuel prices. Watch for her story by mid-week. 4. Laws and orders: We'll be watching a number of courtroom-related actions this week. These include the latest on a number of suits filed against the EPA over waters of the United States (WOTUS) regulations. The meat packing industry also will likely be in the courtroom news. Watch for stories on the complaint filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission that meat packer JBS isn't meeting carbon emissions goals. We'll also be looking into the recent mass of advertisements on social media platforms for cattlemen to join the price-fixing suits against Big Four meat packers. R-CALF USA filed the first suit in 2019, and the number of groups and food companies filing similar claims against the packers has grown in recent months. Along with that, advertisements from law firms offering to represent producers in any class action settlements are popping up like volunteer wheat after a grain cart spill. Legal experts say producers should not need representation; we'll get into the details. 5. Winter meetings pick up: We'll have DTN staff at several events this week. DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton will be in Kansas, looking in to the growing town versus farm water availability issues, and also attending the No-Till on The Plains Winter Conference, Jan. 23-25 in Wichita. Watch for his reporting from the Sunflower State. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will be at the Sioux Falls Farm Show in South Dakota, giving his latest market outlook on Jan. 25-27.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 20, 2023 |
Groups File Legal Challenges to New WOTUS Rule Groups representing agriculture, infrastructure, housing, and petroleum filed a legal challenge to the new Waters of the U.S. Rule. “The Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition is an attack on farmers and ranchers, and we’ll be fighting back in court,” says Mary-Thomas Hart, chief counsel for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “The rule removes longstanding exclusions for small and isolated water features on farms and ranches and adds to the regulatory burden farmers already face.” Non-agriculture groups in the lawsuit include the American Petroleum Institute, the Associated General Contractors of America, and many others. “The new rule creates uncertainty for farmers and ranchers even if they’re miles from the nearest navigable water,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “We believe a judge will see these regulations exceed the scope of the Clean Water Act.” A Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA could require the EPA to start over again on defining WOTUS. *********************************************************************************** Rebound Continues in Farm Lending Farm lending activity continued to gradually increase along with further growth in loan sizes. The Kansas City Federal Reserve says the average size of non-real estate farm loans was about 20 percent higher than a year ago and drove an increase in lending volumes for the fourth straight quarter. Average interest rates on farm loans rose sharply alongside higher benchmark rates and reached a ten-year high, putting additional upward pressure on financing costs. The outlook for farm finances remained favorable alongside elevated commodity prices, but increased interest rates, challenging weather, and high production costs remain key concerns. Higher expenses contributed to a rebound in lending last year, but strong income and liquidity likely limited the financing needs of many producers. Looking ahead, elevated operating expenses could put additional upward pressure on loan demand. Lending activity was seven percent higher than last year. Production expenses have increased by 15 percent since 2020. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Statement on USDA’s Proposed Traceability Rule National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President-Elect Todd Wilkinson released a statement on the USDA’s proposed rule on electronic identification for transporting cattle over state lines. “As USDA has worked toward a nationally significant traceability program, NCBA has engaged with industry stakeholders and USDA to ensure that cattle producers are represented and protected,” says Wilkinson, who also chairs the NCBA Traceability Working Group. “Any program must allow maximum flexibility and privacy while minimizing costs for producers and any industry disruptions.” NCBA also says foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks around the world continue to result in disruptions to commerce and depopulate livestock. That means immediate action is needed. “NCBA is committed to working with USDA to ensure workable solutions are identified and implemented,” Wilkinson says. The organization also says that cattle producers can be confident that any finished product will protect the nation’s livestock herd. The NCBA is continuing to review the proposed rule in its entirety. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing Funds to Reduce Wildfire Risk Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced his agency is expanding efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires in the western U.S. Funds will be invested to directly protect at-risk communities and critical infrastructure in 11 additional landscapes in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. “It’s no longer a matter of if a wildfire will threaten many western communities, it’s a matter of when,” Vilsack says. “This announcement means over $490 million will be used to restore national forests, including the restoration of resilient old-growth forest conditions.” The Forest Service announced its original ten landscape project areas last year. Combined with the additional announcement this week, that represents a total USDA investment of $930 million across 45 million acres. The work spans 134 of the 250 highest-risk fire sheds identified in the Wildfire Crisis Strategy and will mitigate the wildfire risk for around 200 communities in the western United States. *********************************************************************************** January Beige Book Contains Observations on the Ag Economy The Federal Reserve Board released its January 2023 Beige Book Update, which summarizes current economic conditions in each district. The summary includes agricultural conditions in several districts. The Fed in Atlanta said ag conditions were little changed from the previous report but did note Florida citrus yields were down notably due to Hurricane Ian. The Chicago Fed says after a strong year in the district, agricultural income will be lower in 2023 but still see solid returns. The St. Louis branch says inflation-adjusted farm incomes are near a 50-year high and leading to optimism for this year despite rising input costs. The Minneapolis Fed says ag conditions were stable as farm incomes and working capital remained strong heading into this year. Ag conditions in the San Francisco district remained in generally weak condition. Dollar sales were up but down in volume. Rainfall continued to improve soil moisture in the Dallas Fed’s district. *********************************************************************************** Avoiding Antibiotic Resistance on the Dairy Farm Antibiotic use in dairy animals is just to help the animal overcome illness. Mark van der List, a vet with Boehringer-Ingelheim, says the challenge is to help them overcome the sickness without furthering resistance and allowing antibiotic residue into food products. He says it’s important to work with a veterinarian who knows your herd as well as they do. Other tips include following label directions carefully. Producers need to mark and separate all treated animals. Every employee should be easily able to identify any treated animals. Make sure to keep detailed records of all treatments given to each animal in the herd. It’s also important to remove all doubt by making the protocol for treating animals as airtight as possible. “Dairy producers take the responsibility for antibiotic stewardship seriously,” van der List says. “While many already have strong measures in place, it’s always a good idea to fine-tune existing protocols.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 20, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by U.S. existing home sales for December at 9 a.m. and USDA's cattle on-feed report for January 1 at 2 p.m. Traders continue to closely watch the latest weather forecasts, especially for Argentina where crop ratings fell even lower Thursday. The market will also check for a possible export sale announcement from USDA at 8 a.m. Weather As a system continues to push off the East Coast early Friday, some lake-effect snows will continue over the Great Lakes throughout the day. Another system is working its way through the Four Corners area and will move out into Texas tonight and Saturday. In response, widespread precipitation is expected to develop, including a band of moderate to heavy snow across Colorado and Kansas, bringing in much-need moisture for the longstanding drought. Mild temperatures continue across most areas east of the Rockies.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 19, 2023 |
USDA Seeks Comment on Proposal to Strengthen Animal Disease Traceability USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service proposes to amend animal disease traceability regulations and require electronic identification for interstate movement of certain cattle and bison. APHIS is also proposing to revise and clarify record requirements. The changes would strengthen the Nation's ability to quickly respond to significant animal disease outbreaks, according to USDA. Animal disease traceability, or knowing where diseased and at-risk animals are, where they've been, and when, is important to ensuring a rapid response when animal disease events occur. Rapid traceability in a disease outbreak could help ranchers and farmers return to selling their products more quickly, limit how long farms are quarantined, and keep more animals from getting sick. The proposed rule would require official eartags to be visually and electronically readable for official use for interstate movement of certain cattle and bison. A comment period on the proposal through the Federal Register is open through March 22, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule USDA’s National Organic Program Wednesday published the Strengthening Organic Enforcement final rule. The update to USDA organic regulations strengthens oversight and enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic products. The final rule implements 2018 Farm Bill mandates, responds to industry requests for updates to the USDA organic regulations, and addresses National Organic Standards Board recommendations. USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, Jenny Lester Moffitt, says, "Protecting and growing the organic sector and the trusted USDA organic seal is a key part of the USDA Food Systems Transformation initiative." The Strengthening Organic Enforcement rule is the biggest update to the organic regulations since the original Act in 1990, providing a significant increase in oversight and enforcement authority to reinforce the trust of consumers, farmers, and those transitioning to organic production, according to USDA. Organic stakeholders affected by the rule will have one year from the effective date of the rule to comply with the changes. *********************************************************************************** EPA Posts Revised WOTUS to Federal Register The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers published the revised Waters of the U.S. rule in the Federal Register Wednesday. The publication means the revised rule will go into effect on March 20, 2023. EPA and the Army Corps announced the rule at the end of 2022, which will replace the Navigable Waters Protection Rule. At the time, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented, “EPA has doubled down on the old significant nexus test, creating more complicated regulations that will impose a quagmire of regulatory uncertainty.” The rule comes as agriculture awaits a Supreme Court decision in the Sacketts vs. EPA case, which could send WOTUS back to the drawing board. However, the Sackett case is not focused on the new rule. AFBF General Counsel Travis Cushman says, “you would probably need to have a new challenge to that rule," based on the Sackett Supreme Court decision. *********************************************************************************** December Producer Price Index Declines The Producer Price Index for final demand declined 0.5 percent in December, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday. The index measures the average change over time in the selling prices received by domestic producers for their output. Final demand prices advanced 0.2 percent in November and 0.4 percent in October. The index for final demand increased 6.2 percent in 2022 after rising 10.0 percent in 2021. Prices for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services edged up 0.1 percent in December, up 4.6 percent in 2022, following a seven percent rise in 2021. Nearly half of the December decrease for final demand goods can be traced to a 13.4-percent decline in prices for gasoline. The indexes for diesel fuel, jet fuel, fresh and dry vegetables, canned, cooked, smoked, or prepared poultry, and basic organic chemicals also fell. In contrast, prices for carbon steel scrap increased 8.3 percent. The indexes for chicken eggs and for electric power also moved higher. *********************************************************************************** Horticultural Products Drive Total U.S. Agricultural Import Growth The value of U.S. agricultural imports grew an average of four percent a year between fiscal years 2012 and 2022, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Total U.S. agricultural imports rose from $139 billion to $194 billion, with growth concentrated in select commodity groups. Horticultural products grew at a rate of six percent a year and, at $97.2 billion in value in 2022, accounted for 65 percent of the total growth in imports. Within the horticultural group, fresh fruits were the largest contributor at $17.9 billion, growing at an annual rate of nine percent over the period and accounting for 15 percent of total import growth. Key commodities in the fresh fruit group include avocados, berries, and citrus, which the United States imports mostly from Latin American countries. Demand for horticultural products has largely been driven by consumer desire for year-round supply, changing consumer preferences, and foreign production that is increasingly competitive with domestically grown produce. *********************************************************************************** IDFA Names Mike Brown as Chief Economist The International Dairy Foods Association this week named Mike Brown as chief economist. Brown has a long and distinguished career in the dairy industry, most recently leading the milk and dairy procurement team for The Kroger Co. as director of dairy supply chain. Brown is a recognized expert on milk pricing policy and has worked for both farmer-owned cooperatives and proprietary businesses, all of which are current IDFA members. IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes says, “We are confident that with Mike Brown as IDFA’s chief economist, our approach to the future will ensure the domestic and global competitiveness of the U.S. industry.” IDFA also announced that it has engaged in consulting agreements with three policy and legal experts to support dairy policy and pricing efforts led by Carlin and Brown. They are Chip English, Steven J. Rosenbaum, and former U.S. Representative Collin Peterson. The additions come as the dairy industry expects a Federal Milk Marketing Order reform effort this year.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 19, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims, December U.S. housing starts and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report will attract interest at 9:30 a.m., now that gas prices are near $3.00 and will be followed by weekly energy inventories, including ethanol production at 10 a.m. USDA's monthly Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is set for 2 p.m. Weather A strong winter storm that brought heavy snow to portions of the Central Plains and Midwest and heavy rain farther south continues east on Thursday, with more of the precipitation focused on the Midwest into the Northeast going into Friday. Another system is moving through the West, which will emerge in the Southern Plains on Friday. Even behind the current system, temperatures for most areas are above normal for this time of year.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 18, 2023 |
US, EU Sign Tariff Rate Quota Agreement U.S. and European Union trade leaders Tuesday signed the U.S. – EU Tariff Rate Quota Agreement. The agreement, once implemented, will enable the United States to preserve its existing access to the EU market for various agricultural commodities following the United Kingdom's exit from the EU on January 1, 2021. The new Tariff Rate Quota allocations are based on the historic pattern of agricultural exports to the 27 European Union Member States. The agreement will restore favorable market access for multiple U.S. agricultural products, including for U.S. rice, almonds, wheat, and corn, according to the U.S. Trade Representative's Office. In the first eleven months of 2022, the United States exported $11.1 billion worth of agricultural goods to the European Union. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, Sweden's Permanent Representative to the European Union, Ambassador Mikael Lindvall, and European Commission Deputy Director General for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michael Scannell, signed the agreement. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Committee Republicans Set Roster House Agriculture Committee Republicans started the week by announcing the committee’s Roster for the 118th Congress. Glenn GT Thompson of Pennsylvania serves as the chair of the committee. The roster features 12 new members, which includes returning member Frank Lucas of Oklahoma. Lucas previously chaired the committee from 2011 – 2015. Lucas led the committee during the development of the 2014 Farm Bill. Other notable new members include John Duarte of California and Mark Alford of Missouri. Duarte was the subject of a high-profile lawsuit filed by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Water Act. The dispute ended in 2017 with Duarte agreeing to pay a civil penalty and preserve and restore streams and wetlands on his farm. Alford, a new member of Congress, ended a career as a Kansas City area news anchor to run for Congress. Additionally, 15 members return to the committee after serving in the previous Congress. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Sets 2023 Policy Priorities Press The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Tuesday announced the organization’s primary policy focus for 2023. NASDA members, the state commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture, hand-selected seven issues to focus on. The issues include the 2023 Farm Bill, which NASDA says must remain unified, securing a commitment to American agriculture and the critical food and nutritional assistance programs for those who need it most. As for environmental regulations, NASDA supports the science-based and comprehensive regulatory framework the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act provides to ensure environmental and public health protection. Regarding the recently published “waters of the U.S.” rule, NASDA will continue to impress the role of states in regulating non-navigable waters. Other priorities include food production and the supply chain, food safety, animal health, international trade and workforce development. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “We believe these are the areas where state departments of agriculture are uniquely positioned to lead impact and direct policymaking solutions this year.” *********************************************************************************** Rural Job Growth Shifting to High-skill Workers Over the last two decades, the strongest rural job gains were in smaller industries that tend to employ high-skill workers. USDA Economic Research Service reports the highest growth was in the real estate industry. Also showing rapid growth was the administrative services industry, which includes office administration, facilities support, business support services, security services, conventions and trade shows, and waste management and treatment. Other rural industries that grew over the past two decades were health care and social assistance; professional, scientific, and technical services; educational services; and finance and insurance. The growth of these industries represented a shift in rural production toward industries that employ higher shares of high-skill workers. Consistent with this shift, the percent of rural college-educated workers increased from 21.5 percent in 2012 to 23.8 percent in 2019. However, these rates have remained lower than the share of college-educated urban workers, at 38 percent in 2019. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair to Keynote Plant Based Product Council Conference House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson will keynote the inaugural Plant Based Products Council Annual Conference in March. The Pennsylvania Republican will share remarks on Congress’ priorities for the 2023 Farm Bill, growing the bioeconomy, rural economic development, and fostering innovation in agriculture. PBPC Executive Director Jessica Bowman says, “We are excited to convene Chairman Thompson and other policy and industry leaders to drive this industry forward.” PBPC2023 will take place at the JW Marriott in Washington, D.C., from Monday, March 27, to Wednesday, March 29, 2023. The association's inaugural conference will explore the innovations, business models, and policies influencing the entire lifecycle of bioproducts in support of a robust circular economy. Attendees will hear from and network with industry leaders, policymakers, brands, and experts through panels, keynotes, networking sessions, and more. Learn more about the Plant Based Products Council and its inaugural annual conference at www.pbpc.com. *********************************************************************************** USDA Introduces an E-Application for the 1890 National Scholars Program The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a new e-application for the USDA/1890 National Scholars Program. The program aims to encourage students at 1890s institutions to pursue food and agriculture career paths. For the first time, the new e-application for the USDA/1890 National Scholars Program allows young people around the country to complete and submit their applications online. The program is administered through USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement. The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program is a partnership between USDA and the country’s 19 historically Black land-grant universities that were established in 1890. USDA partners with these 1890 universities to provide scholarship recipients with full tuition, fees, books, room, and board. Scholarship recipients attend one of the 1890 land-grant universities, and pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The scholarship also includes work experience at USDA. The application deadline is Wednesday, March 15, 2023. For more information, contact 1890init@usda.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 18, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for December is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST, followed by December U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The Federal Reserve's monthly Beige Book is set for release at 1 p.m. and weekly energy inventories are pushed to Thursday morning, due the the holiday schedule. Traders will keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts, especially for South America, and for any news of an export sale. Weather A storm system that has moved into western Kansas is producing a band of heavy snow across portions of Colorado and Nebraska early Wednesday morning, along with scattered showers farther south and across Missouri and Arkansas along and ahead of a cold front. The heavy snow will spread northeast throughout the day and night, through Iowa, southern Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Heavy snowfall amounts of 6-12" are expected in this band, with potential for some heavier amounts in some places. Farther south along the cold front, severe weather will be possible, most likely this afternoon near the Lower Mississippi River Valley.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 17, 2023 |
NASDA Conducts Vietnam Trade Mission National Association of State Departments of Agriculture members and leadership traveled to Vietnam last week. The delegation embarked on the organization's first trade mission to explore global emerging markets through the Department of Agriculture Emerging Markets Program. NASDA President and Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto, Washington State Department of Agriculture Director Derek Sandison, Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Michael Scuse, Texas Department of Agriculture Assistant Commissioner Dan Hunter and NASDA CEO Ted McKinney participated in the mission. The delegation explored trading opportunities and educated Vietnamese agricultural, government and business leaders on American agriculture and markets. NASDA was recently awarded $925,000 from USDA to promote exports of U.S. agricultural products to developing countries with strong growth potential, including Vietnam. NASDA will also conduct trade missions to Thailand, Indonesia and Kenya in 2023. NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association that represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories. *********************************************************************************** Grassley Intends to Reintroduce Farm Credit for Americans Act Senator Chuck Grassley last week announced he intends to reintroduce the Farm Credit for Americans Act. The legislation bans the federal government from allowing foreign individuals to obtain credit and financial services through the Farm Credit System. The Iowa Republican wrote the legislation with Senator Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat. Specifically, the legislation prevents the Farm Credit Administration from underwriting foreign buyers seeking to purchase U.S. farmland. It would amend the 1971 Farm Credit Act to ensure foreign nationals can’t obtain financing through federal government-backed financial institutions to purchase American farmland. Grassley says, “Young and beginning farmers here at home should not be squeezed out or compete with foreign investors subsidized by the American taxpayer.” According to the USDA, foreign ownership of U.S. farm acres increased 60 percent between 2009 and 2019. Increasingly, young and beginning farmers are competing with institutional investors, such as pension funds, endowments and even professional athletes who are diversifying their financial portfolios with prime farmland. *********************************************************************************** RMA to Host Crop Insurance Workshop for Specialty Crops, Organics Farmers in Iowa can attend a USDA's Risk Management Agency workshop to learn more about crop insurance options, including those designed for agricultural producers who grow specialty and organic crops. RMA will host the free in-person workshops Tuesday, January 24, in Davenport, Iowa. A morning and afternoon session is scheduled, and both have virtual options for producers outside the state or those who can't make it to the in-person event. The workshops will cover the ins and outs of the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm programs, which are great insurance options for specialty crop, organic, urban, and other producers with diverse operations. RMA subject matter experts will provide an in-depth look at these policies. The events will include RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger and other RMA experts. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and get answers in real-time. The Risk Management Agency will hold another round of workshops next month in Michigan. *********************************************************************************** CHS Inc. and Cargill to expand TEMCO operations to include the Texas Gulf CHS Inc. and Cargill recently announced the intent to expand the scope of their joint venture, TEMCO LLC, by adding the Cargill-owned export grain terminal in Houston, Texas. The addition of the Houston terminal will expand the joint venture's export capabilities, providing shipping access for grains, oilseeds and byproducts through the port of Houston. TEMCO currently operates three facilities in the Pacific Northwest. The three facilities distribute grain to global markets, primarily located in the Asia-Pacific region. Through TEMCO, both companies look forward to building on 24 years of successful partnership to expand global grain market access for U.S. farmers to help meet the increasing global need for food. The Houston terminal is located approximately 40 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico via Galveston Bay. With six million bushels of storage and capacity for 350 rail cars, the facility handles up to 250 million bushels annually. The terminal receives both trucks and railcars with a variety of commodities for global export. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Donates 35,000 Pounds of Food to Support Kentucky Smithfield Foods, Inc. has donated 35,000 pounds of food, equal to 140,000 servings, to help feed victims of the severe winter weather that recently engulfed Eastern Kentucky. Smithfield delivered the food products to Mercy Chefs, which is currently stationed in Hazel Green, Kentucky, to provide disaster relief for local residents. The Portsmouth, Virginia-based nonprofit travels to disaster zones across the U.S. to serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality hot meals to local residents, volunteers and first responders. Smithfield products donated to this relief effort include lunch meat, bacon, fully cooked boneless ham, hickory smoked ham and smoked spiral sliced ham. The extreme winter weather in Eastern Kentucky left many residents with frozen pipes and entire towns without potable water. Mercy Chefs expects to cook 2,000-3,000 hot meals per day for residents in the area. To make a donation or find out how to volunteer locally, visit MercyChefs.com/easternky. *********************************************************************************** Cumberland Introduces Scout Robot Cumberland, AGCO’s poultry production equipment brand, is introducing Scout, the world’s first ceiling-suspended robot system. The system continuously monitors broiler chickens and their poultry house environments to increase animal welfare as well as farm productivity. Scott Becker, director of North America sales for Cumberland, says, “With Scout, producers can achieve better feed conversion, early disease detection and fine-tuning of climate control, resulting in reduced mortality and less condemnation numbers.” The advanced robot uses a complete set of sensors to map key indicators that impact bird health and performance, including thermal comfort, air quality, light intensity, sound levels and bird distribution. Scout also classifies excrement for early disease detection 24 to 48 hours before producers may become aware of an issue. In addition, the technology identifies dead birds. Monitoring information is available to producers 24/7 from any device, including daily and weekly reports with maps of their entire house.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 17, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from a three-day weekend, traders may still be pondering the many new estimates USDA set out last Thursday. News over the weekend and the latest weather forecasts, especially anything pertaining to South America, will be reviewed. There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket other than USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CST. Weather A system was moving through the Great Lakes early Tuesday with scattered showers arcing through the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast as well. This system continues to push east throughout the day. Another will be right on its heels as it moves from the Four Corners into the Central Plains tonight. A band of heavy snow is expected to develop over northeast Colorado through Nebraska and into the Upper Midwest tonight through Wednesday, along with scattered showers and thunderstorms for southwest Kansas down through west Texas. The precipitation over the southwestern Plains will be most welcome as the region remains in severe drought. It remains very warm across most of the country during the statistically coldest week of the year.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 13, 2023 |
USDA Releases January WASDE Report USDA released the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand report Thursday. This month's U.S. corn outlook calls for reduced production, food, seed, and industrial use, feed and residual use, exports, and ending stocks. Corn production is estimated at 13.730 billion bushels, down 200 million. Exports were reduced 150 million bushels to 1.925 billion, reflecting the slow pace of shipments through December, and the lowest level of outstanding sales as of early January since the 2019/20 marketing year. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $6.70 per bushel. Soybean production is estimated at 4.276 billion bushels, down 69 million, led by reductions for Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, and Kansas. The soybean export forecast was reduced 55 million bushels to 2.0 billion. The U.S. season-average soybean price is projected at $14.20 per bushel, up 20 cents. The outlook this month calls for increased supplies, larger domestic use, unchanged exports, and lower ending stocks. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $9.10 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Total Household Income up for Commercial Farms From 2015 to 2021, the median total household income for commercial U.S. farms rose an estimated 16 percent, to $278,339 from $238,994. Commercial farms earn more than $350,000 gross cash farm income regardless of the principal operator’s occupation. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that in 2021, the median total household income for commercial farms remained above the median income of $75,201 for all U.S. households. Farm households rely on a combination of on-farm and off-farm sources of income. On-farm income is determined by farm costs and returns that vary from year to year, and in any given year, a majority of farm households report negative farm income. Off-farm sources—including wages, nonfarm business earnings, dividends, and transfers—are the main contributor to household income for most farm households. Because households operating commercial farms rely mostly on on-farm sources of income, they experience the largest shocks in household income when farm sector income rises or falls. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Netherlands Trade Mission USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for its first-ever regional agricultural trade mission to Amsterdam, Netherlands, April 17 – 20, 2023. FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley says, “Participants will explore exporting opportunities in this mature market, which continues to grow, and meet potential buyers in surrounding regional markets.” U.S. agricultural and related exports, including fishery and forestry products, to the Netherlands totaled $3.4 billion in 2021, ranking it the U.S.’s 10th largest market globally. During the trade mission, U.S. participants will meet with buyers from the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and neighboring Belgium and Germany. Participants will conduct business-to-business meetings with potential buyers, receive market briefings from FAS and trade experts, and participate in site visits and other networking activities while in the Netherlands. The deadline to apply for the Netherlands trade mission is Thursday, January 26. Information about the trade mission and how to apply is available on the USDA FAS website. *********************************************************************************** USA Rice Calls House Ways and Means Chair Smith an Ally Earlier this week, Representative Jason Smith was tapped to lead the powerful House Committee on Ways and Means. The Missouri Republican will lead the oldest committee in the U.S. Congress, which is the principal tax-writing body in the House of Representatives. The committee oversees not only taxes and revenue generation, but also tariffs and reciprocal trade agreements for the United States. USA Rice member and Missouri farmer Zach Worrell says, “Congressman Smith has long been a friend of Missouri agriculture and especially Missouri rice,” adding, “We are looking forward to having a rice industry ally lead this committee to advocate for U.S. rice on a global scale on the many trade issues we face.” Tax policy continues to be an important issue for rice farmers and rice-related businesses looking to pass operations onto the next generation. Smith is a farmer, businessman, and former state legislator, and is currently serving his sixth term representing Missouri’s 8th Congressional District. *********************************************************************************** Thank You Farmers Project Donations Surpass $4 Million Culver's Thank You Farmers Project has now eclipsed $4 million raised since its creation in 2013. Through initiatives organized by Culver's on a systemwide level and the fundraising efforts of local restaurants throughout 2022, the program raised $750,000 toward its mission of advocating for the positive impact agriculture has on the world. Proceeds raised through the Thank You Farmers Project directly support those actively bringing positive change to the agriculture industry. These beneficiaries include groups making a difference with agriculture efforts in Culver's local communities as well as national organizations working to advance the industry on a broader scale, like the National FFA Organization and U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action. Alison Demmer, Culver's marketing and public relations manager, says, “We were so proud to see our guests join in this mission with us in 2022, and we look forward to supporting agriculture together through the Thank You Farmers Project long into the future." *********************************************************************************** Commodity Classic Registration Ends January 20 Only a few days remain to take advantage of early registration discounts for the 2023 Commodity Classic to be held March 9-11 in Orlando. Friday, January 20, 2023, is the last day the early registration discount will be in effect. Commodity Classic 2023 co-chair George Goblish says, “Going to Commodity Classic is an investment in any grower’s operation.” Registration fees vary depending on the number of days attended. Full registration covers all three days of the event, and one-day registrations are also available. Members of the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Sorghum Producers, National Association of Wheat Growers, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers receive additional discounts on registration. All registration and housing reservations should be made online at CommodityClassic.com. The 2023 Commodity Classic will be held at the Orange County Convention Center West Concourse in Orlando, Florida. The convention center will house all Commodity Classic events.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 13, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets On Friday the 13th, the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment is due out at 9 a.m. CST and several Federal Reserve officials are speaking around the country. Traders will keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts, especially in South America and will still be influenced by data from Thursday's USDA reports. January futures contracts in the soy complex are set to expire early Friday. Weather A system leaving the East Coast and another along the West Coast will produce scattered showers on Friday. Some relatively cold air moving over the Great Lakes will produce a bit of lake-effect snow as well. Temperatures remain mild for the coldest time of the year outside of the Southeast, even after a cold front moved through this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 12, 2023 |
Equipment Sales Mixed in 2022 Combine harvester sales finished 2022 with healthy gains in unit sales while ag tractors finished below 2021 levels in both the U.S. and Canada. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag tractor unit sales fell during December and the whole year when compared with 2021. The sub-40 horsepower segment led losses in both time frames, losing 26 percent for the month and 19 percent for the calendar year. U.S. combine sales grew 16 percent in December and finished 2022 almost 16 percent higher than the previous year. Only one other segment was higher for the year, which was the 100-plus horsepower units, finishing the year up 11 percent despite dropping two percent in December. In Canada, combine harvesters led the yearly sales by finishing almost 11 percent higher than in 2021 and were assisted by a 27 percent sales bump in December. Tractor sales dropped seven percent in 2022. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Establishes 2023 Policy Priorities Delegates at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 104th annual convention adopted policies that will guide the organization’s work in 2023. Some of the key topics ranged from expanding risk management programs and improving dairy pricing transparency to battling hunger. “There’s a lot of work to do in 2023 as Congress drafts the next farm bill, and the policies set forth will guide AFBF as we work to ensure farmers and ranchers can continue to meet the growing needs of families in America and around the world,” says President Zippy Duvall. Delegates voted to modernize the farm bill by expanding baseline funding, developing more flexible disaster relief programs, and extending protection to more specialty crops. They also voted to bring more transparency to the federal milk pricing system. Voting delegates also formalized the organization’s opposition to the new Waters of the U.S. rule and a potential Mexican ban on GMO corn. *********************************************************************************** NACD Application Period for Conservation Grants The National Association of Conservation Districts announced the open application period for the 2023 Urban and Community Conservation Grant Initiative. The grants are open to any conservation district or tribe within the U.S. and in the territories. Through a partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, NACD has awarded over $6.5 million to 131 conservation districts and tribes in 37 states and Puerto Rico. As part of an ongoing effort to build capacity in the community-oriented agricultural space, NACD started offering UAC planning grants worth up to $10,000 each in 2022. The planning grants allow organizations that are new to urban or community agriculture to begin early-stage development of a program to provide conservation technical assistance. NACD will continue to offer the planning grants as well as the traditional implementation grants which are more focused on the provision of technical assistance. More information and the application are available at nacdnet.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Eligibility, Improves Benefits for Disaster Programs USDA has made several updates to different conservation, livestock, and crop disaster assistance programs to give more farmers, ranchers, and tribes the opportunity to access them. Ease of access is especially important after natural disasters. The Farm Service Agency expanded eligibility and enhanced available benefits for a suite of its programs. The updates will provide critical assistance to producers who need to rebuild and recover after suffering catastrophic losses of production and infrastructure due to natural disasters. USDA updated the Emergency Conservation Program, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish, the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, the Livestock Indemnity Program, and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program. “As I meet with producers across the country, I’ve gained a better understanding of the ways in which our programs work and how they can be improved to better support all producers,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA Administrator. “Especially those who are rebuilding.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports First-Quarter Earnings CHS released results for its first quarter which ended on November 30, 2022. The company reported a quarterly income of $782.6 million compared to $452 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. First-quarter highlights from this year include revenues of $12.8 billion compared to $10.9 billion in the first quarter of fiscal year 2022, a year-over-year increase of 17 percent. Continued robust demand for commodities, coupled with market volatility, resulted in strong earnings across all of the company’s business segments. The company’s soybean and canola processing businesses in the Ag segment benefited from strong demand for meal and oil. “The U.S. agricultural industry has benefitted from ongoing strong global demand for grain and oilseed commodities,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “Our continued strong earnings are attributable to market dynamics and supported by our investments on behalf of our owners that will drive efficiency and operational improvements.” ************************************************************************************ Pro Athletes Buying Iowa Farmland Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and longtime NBA player Blake Griffin are among some of the big-name athletes who are investing in Iowa farmland. They’ve joined up with more than 20 other pro athletes from the NFL, NHL, the NBA, and Major League Baseball to form an investment fund of about $5 million, which was used to buy farmland in Iowa. Other athletes in the group include Kemba Walker, formerly of the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA, and Khris Middleton of the defending NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks. The group is buying the land and will lease it to farmers who will work it and give the athletes a single-digit percentage annual return on their investment. It’s believed that the group will be looking to buy at least four more properties. They’ve already looked into several watermelon farms in Oregon that offer a higher per-acre rent than other larger farms.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 12, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the December consumer price index and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's Crop Production, WASDE, Grain Stocks and Winter Wheat Seedings reports -- all at 11 a.m. DTN's WASDE webinar follows at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system moving along or just north of the Ohio River on Thursday is producing thunderstorms along the river, some of which may be severe this morning. A larger threat for severe weather comes with thunderstorms developing over Mississippi that will move eastward through the rest of the day. Tornadoes and strong wind gusts are the main threats to the storms. Winds will be elevated around the system as well. More rain is moving through the West Coast, but most of California is getting a break from the recent heavy precipitation.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 11, 2023 |
Vilsack: No Compromise with Mexico on GMO Corn After a speech at the American Farm Bureau’s annual convention, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack said there will be no compromise when it comes to the Mexican corn situation. The U.S. won’t back down or compromise on its stance against Mexico’s plan to ban imports of genetically modified yellow corn. Vilsack says the American government is supposed to reply by January 15 to Mexico’s proposal to delay the ban until 2025. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has spoken to her Mexican counterpart about the dispute. Speaking to reporters at the AFBF convention, Vilsack said that if Mexico doesn’t agree to withdraw its import ban, the White House will then push the USMCA on trade rules. Vilsack told Mexico’s President Lopez Obrador that he won’t be able to find enough non-GMO corn to import and feed the country’s livestock sector. The larger issue is about a trading system with “less friction,” not more friction. *********************************************************************************** Major U.S. Ag Groups Testify on Proposed 2023-2025 RVOs The Environmental Protection Agency held a virtual public hearing this week on its proposed Renewable Volume Obligation blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023-2025. A number of the nation’s leading agriculture organizations and supporters testified during the hearing. Tom Haag, President of the National Corn Growers Association, said during testimony that they support the growth trajectory in the EPA proposal, but biofuels can contribute even more. Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association says, “The proposed ‘Set” rule establishes a firm foundation for the future of the RFS and creates a pathway to sustainable growth in the use of low-carbon fuels.” Brooke Coleman, executive director of the Advanced Biofuels Business Council, says they appreciate EPA’s commitment to setting a multiyear RVO, curtailing Small Refiner Exemptions, and establishing reasonable growth across all categories of biofuels. “However, EPA left some tools on the shelf for promoting innovation in cellulosic biofuel,” Coleman said. *********************************************************************************** Biodiesel Group Unhappy with EPA Proposal on RVOs Clean Fuels Alliance America members testified during the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Public Hearing on RFS Standards for 2023-2025 and Other Changes.” Staff members expressed frustration with the proposed volumes for biomass-based diesel because they don’t match the volumes that are already in the market and don’t account for expected growth in capacity and feedstocks. “This proposed rule significantly undercounts existing biomass-based diesel production and fails to provide growth for investments the industry has already made in additional capacity, including for sustainable aviation fuel,” Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen said during testimony. “Clean Fuels is once again frustrated that EPA has the wherewithal needed to determine current production, the knowledge of the investments being made, and the resources to accurately determine feedstock availability, and yet proposes a no-growth scenario,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs. Rehagen also said EPA committed to promoting homegrown fuels but failed to follow through. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Recognizes Young Farmer and Rancher Competition Winners The American Farm Bureau Federation recognized the winners of the Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement Award, Discussion Meet, and Excellence in Agriculture Competitions. Young farmers and ranchers competed for the awards by demonstrating knowledge, achievement, and commitment to promoting agriculture. Daniel and Carla Trantham of Alabama won the Achievement Award, which recognizes young farmers and ranchers excelling in their farming and ranching operations and exhibiting superior leadership abilities. Mike Hannewald of Ohio won the Discussion Meet, which simulates a committee meeting in which active participation is required. Participants are evaluated on their ability to exchange ideas and information on a predetermined topic. Stacie Anderson of Ohio won the Excellence in Agriculture Award, which recognizes young farmers and ranchers who don’t derive the majority of their income from an agricultural operation, but who actively contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture, leadership ability, and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations. *********************************************************************************** NCC Releases Most Comprehensive Guidelines for Poultry Care The National Chicken Council developed the NCC Broiler Welfare Guidelines and Audit Checklist in 1999. The goal was to help poultry producers show consumers that all of the birds were being treated with respect and properly cared for during their lives. NCC recently published its 2023 update of the NCC Broiler Welfare Guidelines, which are more robust than ever before and include new parameters to improve bird welfare. The new guidelines include identifying Key Welfare Indicators like paw/footpad health, gait scoring, effective processing parameters, and minimizing leg and wing injuries. It also includes whistleblower protection, an additional focus on training programs for proper handling, a more streamlined tool for ease of auditing, and an increased focus on bird behavior, objective measures, and welfare outcomes. “With this certification, consumers can feel confident that when buying and eating chicken, the birds were well-cared for,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, senior VP of scientific and regulatory affairs. ************************************************************************************ Center Hosts Thai Retailers and Marketers to Boost Exports A group of six cheese retailers and cheese marketing specialists from Thailand will visit the Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin in Madison on January 18-20. It’s part of a two-week program to learn about gourmet cheeses. The program, funded through a Cochran Fellowship Program Grant from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, will also involve visiting dairy farms, cheese factories, specialty cheese shops, large retail grocery chains, restaurants, and bars. The visit focuses on training and networking, helping the Thai build relationships with manufacturers, companies, distributors, and government partners. The overall objective of the program is to ultimately expand U.S. cheese exports to Thailand. Some of the activities at the Center include cheese tastings and evaluations, demonstrating activities like Swiss cheese and specialty/artisan cheese making, and lectures on the basics of cheese science and the cheesemaking process. The proposal and itinerary for the visit were first announced in February 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 11, 2023 |
Wednesday Market Watch Markets The U.S. Energy Department will have its weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, including an update of ethanol production, previously reported at 844,000 barrels per day. Traders will keep an eye on KC wheat after prices broke below their December low Tuesday, check the latest weather forecasts and see if USDA has an export sales announcement at 8 a.m. Trading in grains may turn quiet ahead of Thursday's USDA reports. Weather A two-part storm is moving through the country Wednesday. The first piece is producing a mix of snow and freezing rain across Minnesota and Wisconsin that will push eastward and may expand showers into the Ohio Valley later in the day. The second, larger storm is pressing through the central Rockies and will exit into the Plains later in the day. This storm will start to produce scattered showers in Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska this afternoon, with snow or rain changing to snow and a couple of inches of accumulation. The storm will miss most of the Southern Plains, but winds will increase as the cold front moves through, which is a major fire risk for this are in deep drought. Temperatures remain above normal for most of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 10, 2023 |
Farm Bureau Signs MOU on Right to Repair The American Farm Bureau and John Deere signed a memorandum of understanding that ensures farmers’ and ranchers’ rights to repair their own equipment. The MOU, signed at the AFBF annual convention, is the culmination of several years of discussions between AFBF and John Deere. “This addresses a long-running issue for farmers and ranchers when it comes to accessing tools, information, and resources while protecting John Deere’s intellectual property rights and ensuring safety,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers must have the freedom to choose where equipment is repaired or repair it themselves to help control costs.” David Gilmore of John Deere says the agreement reaffirms Deere’s commitment to making sure its customers have the diagnostic tools they need. The MOU creates a mechanism to address farmer concerns. John Deere commits to engaging with farmers and dealers to resolve issues when they arise and will meet with AFBF yearly to evaluate progress. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Major Program Improvements, Progress, and Investments Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced several major developments at the USDA that will help benefit farmers and ranchers across the nation. Speaking at the AFBF annual convention in Puerto Rico, Vilsack said they want to provide all farmers with the opportunities they need to continue farming, build and maintain their competitive edge, and access more, new, and better markets. He says USDA is moving forward with the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program and published comments on the importance of increased competition. The agency is also improving risk protection for beginning, veteran, limited resource, and minority producers. USDA is also investing more than $12 million to expand independent meat and poultry processing capacity in Ohio, Michigan, and Minnesota. There are new programs coming to fill the gaps in the 2020-2021 Natural Disaster Assistance and the 2020 Pandemic Assistance Programs. “By working together, we can ensure that American agriculture remains resilient,” Vilsack says. *********************************************************************************** CNH Workers Say No to Proposed Contract United Auto Workers at Case New Holland Plants in Burlington, Iowa, and Racine (ray-SEEN), Wisconsin, voted down a contract proposal on Saturday night that would have ended a strike. The president of UAW Local 807 says 45 percent voted yes, and 55 percent voted no to the offer. Internal meetings are ongoing among union members to see what the process is going to look like going forward. The union went on strike against the agriculture manufacturer on May 2 of last year. On May 19, 2022, CNH presented the union with what it called a “final, all-encompassing, comprehensive offer.” However, union members didn’t vote on this deal because union leaders didn’t feel it covered the cost of inflation. A spokesperson for CNH Industrial says the company is disappointed to learn that its recently negotiated and improved “Last, Best, and Final Offer” was not approved in the ratification vote by the union. *********************************************************************************** Poll Shows Voters Support Ethanol and RFS, Oppose EV Mandates A new survey of registered voters shows significant support for ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard while revealing opposition to banning liquid fuels or mandating electric vehicles. Morning Consult conducted the survey for the Renewable Fuels Association. “As the new Congress settles in and considers the future of our nation’s energy policy, these polling results demonstrate that Americans strongly support the expanded use of lower-cost, lower-carbon renewable fuels like ethanol,” says RFA President Geoff Cooper. According to the survey, almost 55 percent of the respondents support the Renewable Fuel Standard, while only 15 percent expressed opposition to the program. Meanwhile, 64 percent of respondents have a favorable opinion of ethanol, while just 18 percent said unfavorable. Half the respondents said they weren’t interested in purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle in the next three years, while 42 percent expressed interest. Sixty-six percent oppose banning the sale of liquid-fueled engines in cars. *********************************************************************************** Forum will Reaffirm Beef Industry’s Commitment to Sustainability Cattle producers are committed to protecting environmental resources, supporting communities, and creating an economically viable future through effective management practices. The “Beef Sustainability Forum” coming up on Thursday, February 2, in New Orleans, Louisiana, will help highlight the industry’s sustainability efforts. The panel discussion will be moderated by Collin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Sustainability continues to be a top priority for NCBA and is an issue at the forefront of the entire beef industry,” says Josh White, senior executive director of producer education and sustainability with the NCBA. “This special event will include cattle producers and industry leaders from various sectors discussing strategies that improve sustainability, and how those efforts can enhance sustainability for the entire industry.” It’s a part of the annual Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade show, the oldest and largest convention in the cattle business. For more information and to register, go to convention.ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Chooses Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner The American Farm Bureau Federation picked the 2023 winner of the Farm Bureau Dog of the Year Award. Her name is “Tough,” and she’s a Border Collie owned by Denny and Donna Ashcraft of the Kansas Farm Bureau. “Farmers and ranchers love what they do, but it can be stressful, even on the best days,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. “Farm dogs play a dual role as working dogs and companions to farm families, and that can help ease the burden.” The contest celebrates farm dogs that work alongside farmers and ranchers as they produce nutritious food for families and pets across America. Tough, the grand prize winner is 14 years old and has been with the Ashcraft family since the age of two. Tough injured her spinal cord and was paralyzed for a week when she was seven years old. The Border Collie recovered and spends her days working livestock.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 10, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets On Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak in Sweden, otherwise there are no significant events on Tuesday's docket. Two days ahead of the next WASDE report, trading may be quiet and traders will be watching the latest weather forecasts, as well as any developing news. Weather A two-part system is moving through the West on Tuesday. The leading wave will move along the U.S.-Canada border tonight with some showers across the northern tier of the country. The second part will continue to pound California, the southern Great Basin, and the Central Rockies with even more precipitation and a chance for a few severe thunderstorms. Otherwise it remains quite warm by January standards across the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 9, 2023 |
Food Prices Drop in December but 2022 till Significantly Higher than 2021 The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index dropped during December, but 2022 food prices were 18 percent higher than in 2021. The December index averaged 132.4 points, 2.6 points below November, the ninth-straight monthly decline. The December drop was driven by a steep decline in the international vegetable oil price and declining cereal and meat prices. However, that was counterbalanced by rising prices in sugar and dairy. For 2022, the index averaged 143.7 points, 18 points or 14.3 percent higher than the 2021 index. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 144 points in December, down more than 10 points from November and its lowest level since February 2021. The Cereal Price Index averaged 147.3 points during December, down 2.9 points from November but was almost seven points higher than December 2021. The December dairy index was up 1.5 points, and the sugar index was 2.8 points higher. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack in Puerto Rico and Will Address AFBF Convention Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will be in Puerto Rico on January 9 and 10 and speak at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Convention. He’ll also engage in a series of events involving the USDA’s commitment to fostering economic development, supporting disaster recovery, increasing the island’s resilience against future storms, supporting disaster recovery, and creating new market opportunities for the country’s producers. At various events throughout the trip, Vilsack will be joined by Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner, Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of Economic Development and Commerce, as well as various elected officials. He’ll also hold discussions with local officials, producers, and stakeholders about USDA efforts to support the country’s rural communities, climate-smart agriculture, disaster assistance, and other issues important to Puerto Rico’s population. He’ll also meet with Puerto Rico’s Governor to talk about USDA and the Puerto Rican government’s efforts to collaborate on supporting the island’s producers and rural communities. *********************************************************************************** Report Shows Global Biofuel Demand to Increase Over 20 Percent by 2027 The International Energy Agency released its Renewables 2022 Analysis Report in December, and it shows a growing global demand for biofuels. Renewables 2022 includes extensive analysis of the renewable energy sector, including developments and trends for transportation. “In this most recent IEA report, total global biofuel demand is estimated to increase more than 20 percent between 2020 and 2027,” says Isabelle Ausdal, manager of global ethanol policy and economics with the U.S. Grains Council. “World ethanol consumption is projected to rise in an accelerated case scenario.” She also says this reinforces the U.S. industry’s recognition of ethanol’s importance as a tool for countries to accelerate their greenhouse gas emissions reductions and underscores the importance of scaling up technologies like carbon capture, utilization, and storage to reach net zero carbon intensity. The report details increasingly ambitious energy targets in the European Union, growth in ethanol consumption in Brazil, and biofuel blending in India. *********************************************************************************** World’s First Honeybee Vaccine Gets Approved Pollinators are a big part of success in world agriculture. The USDA granted a conditional license for a vaccine to protect the country’s honeybees from foulbrood disease. Earth Dot Com says the bacterial infection weakens and kills honeybee colonies and has no treatment. The vaccine was developed by Dalan Animal Health and brings hope for a weapon against a disease that regularly ravages colonies that are highly important to food pollination. In parts of the U.S., the foulbrood disease has been found in over a quarter of honeybee hives. Beekeepers typically destroy and burn infected colonies and administer antibiotics to stop the further spread of the disease. The vaccine works by incorporating some of the bacteria into the royal jelly fed to the queen by worker bees. After ingesting the jelly, the queen will gain some of the vaccine in her ovaries and developing bee larvae will have immunity to foulbrood. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reports Shows Increasing Use of Cover Crops Cover crops are an increasingly popular management practice among many U.S. farmers. The goal is to provide seasonal living cover between their primary commodity cash crops. Farmers plant those cover crops in the fall to provide winter cover for soil that otherwise would be bare. The USDA’s Agricultural Resource Management Survey says over the past ten years, fall cover crop adoption has continued to grow. On fields growing corn for grain, 0.6 percent of the acreage used a fall cover crop before the 2010 crop. By 2016, 5.5 percent of the corn-for-grain acreage had a preceding fall cover, and by 2021, 7.9 percent of corn-for-grain acreage followed a fall cover crop. This represents a 44 percent increase in fall cover crop adoption on corn-for-grain fields between 2016 and 2021. The growth in the adoption of cover crops on cotton fields is similar, with a 46 percent increase between 2015 and 2019. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Lowest Level Since 2020 The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to the lowest level in more than two years, while inventories were down slightly during the last week of 2022. Production dropped to an average of 844,000 barrels per day. That’s down from 963,000 barrels a day, on average, during the previous week and the lowest level since the week ending on June 12, 2022. Losses were broad-based across all regions but one in the U.S. The Midwest, which produces the most ethanol in the country, saw its output plunge to an average of 794,000 barrels a day from 906,000 a week earlier. That’s the lowest since the seven days ending on May 29, 2020. Production on the East and West Coasts each dropped an average of 3,000 barrels a day from the prior week. The only increase in ethanol production came in the Gulf Coast region. Inventories were down slightly at 24.44 million barrels.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 9, 2023 |
Monday Watch List Markets Traders return from the weekend checking the latest weather forecasts, especially in South America and surveying the news. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CST and is the only significant report of the day. Weather The West stays active on Monday with another system moving through California, bringing heavy precipitation to a lot of areas, including the Central Valley and Sierras for building snowpack as drought conditions are turning around. East of the Rockies it will be a quiet day with rather mild temperatures for January.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 6, 2023 |
Senate Ag Chair Not Running for Reelection in 2024 Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan announced she won’t be running for reelection in 2024. “Inspired by a new generation of leaders, I’ve decided to pass the torch in the U.S. Senate,” Stabenow says in a statement. “I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people of Michigan have placed in me.” The four-term senator says a big part of her decision was stepping aside to make room for new voices. Between now and 2024, Stabenow says she’ll concentrate on passing a new farm bill before she retires. “The farm bill determines our nation’s food and agriculture policies,” she says. “It’s also a key to protecting our land and water and creating jobs in rural and urban communities.” Stabenow has played a big role in several farm bills. Her decision will increase pressure to pass a new farm bill while she’s in office rather than extending the current legislation. *********************************************************************************** Farmers National Company Releases Final Year Land Sales Report Farmers National Company says land market momentum that began late in 2021 only picked up the pace into 2022. Competition for high-quality cropland resulted in both record sales and overall increases in land values. Strong demand in all of the country’s regions brought significant opportunities to landowners interested in capitalizing on the current land market. In most cases, landowners selling property experienced never-before-seen values for their farmland. The final results set records in several states and increased year-to-year values between 20 and 34 percent in the Corn Belt. Farmers National says the traditional local farmer-operators are the successful buyers of land in 75 percent of their transactions. “We’re seeing a true supply-demand scenario,” says Paul Shadegg, senior vice president of real estate operations. “There are simply more buyers willing to bid on the limited amount of land coming to market.” Commodity markets are the main driver in higher land values. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments to Strengthen the U.S. Meat Supply Chain USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced an investment of $9.6 million across the country and taking several other steps to help farmers, ranchers, processors, and rural businesses diversify the meat supply. “We’re putting the needs of farmers, ranchers, and consumers at the forefront of our work to strengthen the resiliency of America’s food supply chain while promoting competition,” he says. “USDA is working on an approach to coordinate ways to deliver more opportunities and fairer prices for producers.” He also says the goal is to give people access to healthier foods, eliminate bottlenecks in the food supply chain, and ultimately lower prices for consumers. Vilsack announced a total of 25 new investments to increase independent meat processing capacity. The investments include 23 value-added Producer Grant Program awards totaling $3.9 million to help producer-owned companies process and market new products. USDA is also investing $5.7 million in two companies to support food processing infrastructure. *********************************************************************************** Union Taking CNH’s Last Offer to Striking Workers for Saturday Vote The United Auto Workers announced in a news release that they’ve decided to bring CNH Industrial’s “last, best, and final offer” to its striking workers for a vote. Farm Equipment Magazine says the workers are expected to vote on Saturday, January 7. However, Ag Equipment Intelligence reached out to CNH Industrial for comment but did not hear back. In 2021, when 10,000 John Deere employees went on strike, Deere referred to its third offer to the union as its “last, best, and final offer,” which James Cooney of Rutgers University said at the time that “this could signify Deere is at an impasse in negotiations. “That’s not an agreement with the company when saying, “Hey, this is our last, best, and final offer,’” Cooney says. “A union may take that back to the membership, but, on the other hand, it may choose not to, especially if it’s perceived as a threat.” *********************************************************************************** Winter Wheat 2023-2024 Planting Estimates on January 12 The National Agricultural Statistics Service will publish the first official estimate of the 2023-2024 winter wheat crop planted area on January 12. U.S. Wheat Associates and America’s wheat-importing customers will be watching trade estimates before the report is issued. Wheat analyst Jeffry McPike says his group expects a planted area forecast of 35.7 million acres. If realized, that’s a seven percent increase over NASS’s final 2022 estimate. The Economic Research Service has documented a general downward trend in America’s wheat plantings during the last two decades due in part to lower returns, changes in government programs, and increased competition in global wheat markets. However, at planting time in 2022, the relatively high prices for hard red winter, soft red winter, and white winter wheat all provided an incentive to plant more wheat. Pre-report predictions range between 34-36 million acres, higher than the 2022 final NASS crop estimate of 33.27 million acres. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Country is Still Very Dry Kansas, the country’s biggest hard-red winter wheat producer, is still very dry. USDA data says topsoil moisture in the state was little changed from January 1 through the end of November 2022. About 43 percent of the state was very short on topsoil moisture and 26 percent was listed short on January 1. Twenty-nine percent of the state had adequate topsoil moisture and only two percent had a surplus. That compares with 48 percent very short, 25 percent short, 26 percent adequate, and just one percent held surplus moisture on November 29, the last time the government issued a crop progress report. Oklahoma, the country’s number two HRW producer, only saw .16 inches of rainfall in the panhandle during December. Topsoil and subsoil moisture was listed as “mostly adequate to short.” Arkansas, one of the country’s key soft-red winter wheat growers, saw moisture conditions improve with 60 percent surplus topsoil moisture.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 6, 2023 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, the same time the Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls and the U.S. unemployment rate for December. A report on U.S. factory orders for November is set for 9 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and outside markets, which have been a bearish influence this week. Weather A system that brought heavy rain and snow to the country this week is finally leaving through the Northeast on Friday. Most of the country east of the Rockies is quieter today. But a system moving through the Rockies will exit into the Central Plains tonight and produce some showers into Saturday. Showers will likely to be rather weak except around the Gulf Coast where thunderstorms will be possible over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 5, 2023 |
United States and Taiwan to Hold Trade Negotiations This Month The United States and Taiwan will hold an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade in Taipei. The negotiations are under the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States. The next round of talks is scheduled for January 14-17. The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office will lead the U.S. delegation through Assistant United States Trade Representative Terry McCartin and include representatives from several other U.S. government agencies. The negotiation process started in June 2022, launching the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. The initiative is intended to develop concrete ways to deepen the economic and trade relationship, advance mutual trade priorities based on shared values, and promote innovation and inclusive economic growth for our workers and businesses, including through new trade agreements. The two sides last met in November, holding two days of discussion in New York. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Conservation Stewardship Program The next deadline for Conservation Stewardship Program applications to be considered for funding this year is February 10, 2023. Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps farmers, ranchers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages the adoption of new technologies and management techniques. Changes in the 2018 Farm Bill authorize NRCS to accept new CSP enrollments from 2020‒2023 and makes additional improvements to the program. NRCS now enrolls eligible, high-ranking applications based on dollars rather than acres. Higher payment rates are available under the 2018 Farm Bill for certain conservation activities, including cover crops and resource-conserving crop rotations. NRCS now provides specific support for organic and for transitioning to organic production activities through CSP. While applications are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline to ensure they are considered for 2023 funding. *********************************************************************************** Esteban Sworn-in as USDA Undersecretary for Food Safety Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack welcomed the swearing-in of Jose Emilio Esteban as the Undersecretary for Food Safety at the Department of Agriculture. Vilsack says, “Dr. Esteban has a long and well-documented commitment to food safety and public health.” Esteban was appointed Chief Scientist of the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service in August 2018. Esteban joined the Office of Public Health Science at FSIS in 2002. In 2008, he was appointed as the FSIS Science Advisor for Laboratory Services, where he harmonized the operation of all three FSIS laboratories. Before joining FSIS, Esteban worked in several positions at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Esteban received his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Mexico’s National University. Vilsack adds, “I am confident that Dr. Esteban’s leadership and experience is the right combination to advance our commitment to maintaining public health and reducing foodborne illness.” *********************************************************************************** Bureau of Land Management Seeks Input on Solar Energy Program The Bureau of Land Management this week announced a public meeting to solicit feedback on utility-scale solar energy planning. The Bureau of Land Management is considering updates to its 2012 Western Solar Plan that included six southwestern states—Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. BLM is seeking comments on expanding its solar planning to include five more states: Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. The first meeting, scheduled January 18 in Sacramento, California, is one of a series being held in January and February in various western states. BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning says, "The BLM is committed to expanding renewable energy development on public lands." The public comment period will remain open for 15 days after the last public scoping meeting, or February 6, whichever is later. The Notice of Intent to update the BLM's 2012 solar programmatic environmental impact statement was published in the Federal Register on December 8, 2022. Learn more about the meetings at www.blm.gov. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels welcomes Eight New Members As interest in low-carbon fuels gains momentum, Clean Fuels Alliance America continues to grow stronger and more diverse by adding new members. As Clean Fuels prepares for the Clean Fuels Conference in Tampa later this month, the association welcomes eight new companies that joined the association the last year. Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen says, "The addition of these members demonstrates the value they see in being part of our trade association and the ongoing expansion of this industry." The list of new members includes DSM - a purpose-led science-based global company specializing in human and animal health and nutrition solutions. DSM's purpose is to create brighter lives for all. Another new member is the National Oilheat Research Alliance, authorized by Congress in 2000 to provide funding that would allow the oil heat industry to provide more efficient and more reliable heat and hot water to American Consumers. *********************************************************************************** AM/FM Radio in Vehicles: A Pay to Play Feature? At the Consumer Electronics Show this week, Steve Koenig of the Consumer Technology Association showcased new potential trends to the media before the start of the show. One potential trend, according to Koenig, is automakers charging extra for AM/FM radios in cars. Koenig says automakers may move to a Features as a Service offering for AM/FM radios, allowing automakers to enable or disable features based on whether the car owner is paying for the services. Automakers claim AM radio signals face electromagnetic interference generated from electric cars. Radio Ink reports, "Automotive companies are salivating at the opportunity to capitalize on car features as services that will be subscription based.” In December, Senator Ed Markey, A Massachusetts Democrat, urged automakers to maintain free broadcast radio in future electric vehicles. Markey said, “AM/FM broadcast radio remains the most dependable, cost-free, and accessible communication mechanism for public officials to communicate with the public during times of emergency.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 5, 2023 |
Thursday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, reports on U.S. weekly jobless claims and the U.S. trade deficit for November will be out, along with an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m., including ethanol production. At some point Thursday morning, USDA will also provide export data from the Census Bureau for November. Weather A low-pressure center continues to spin across the Midwest with areas of light snow falling throughout the day. It's much quieter elsewhere east of the Rockies with generally mild temperatures for this time of year. A system moved into California and will spread showers throughout the West on Thursday, though will be weaker as it moves through the rest of the country Friday through the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 4, 2023 |
Farmer Sentiment Rebounds at Year End on Stronger 2022 Income Producer sentiment improved sharply in December as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index reading of 126 was 24 points higher than a month earlier. Although U.S. farmers were more positive regarding both the current situation and the future, the biggest improvement was in their assessment of current conditions. The Current Conditions Index reached 135, 37 points higher than in November, while the Future Expectations Index hit 122, 18 points above a month earlier. The improvement in current sentiment was motivated by producers' stronger perception of current financial conditions on their farms as the Farm Financial Performance Index climbed 18 points above the prior month's reading to reach 109, which was the only time in 2022 that the index was above 100. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated monthly from 400 U.S. agricultural producers' responses to a telephone survey. This month's survey was conducted from December 5-9, 2022. *********************************************************************************** World’s First Agri-Focused Satellite Launches The first of seven satellites for agriculture launched into space Tuesday by SpaceX. Built by Dragonfly Aerospace, the satellite is part of the Transporter-6 mission for customer EOS Data Analytics. The remaining six satellites of the constellation will be deployed over the next three years. The EOS Data Analytics project is the world's first agriculture-focused satellite constellation providing the industry with high-quality data to support efficient and sustainable practices. Images obtained from Dragonfly's EOS SAT-1 will deliver information for harvest monitoring, application mapping, seasonal planning and assessments that analyze information such as soil moisture, yield prediction and biomass levels. The data will support growers with reducing carbon dioxide emissions and help them to develop sustainable agricultural methods. The company says the information will have important environmental benefits for the planet and help prevent natural habitats from being diminished for crop growth and maintain biodiversity. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Expresses Disappointment in EPA WOTUS Rule The National Corn Growers Association Tuesday expressed disappointment regarding the final Waters of the United States rule under the Clean Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers released the final rule on December 30. NCGA says the rule was released as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to decide a case, Sackett vs. EPA, which will provide more clarity on the issue. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "The Court's ruling could negate major elements of this WOTUS rule and will create even more uncertainty for farmers.” NCGA submitted comments to EPA and encouraged corn growers to do the same as the rule was being considered. The group also participated in regional hearings held by EPA. Haag says that as farmers, “we are the ones who will feel the impact of this rule,” adding, “Yet, it appears that our comments fell on deaf ears.” *********************************************************************************** NMPF: WOTUS Unclear and Overly Complicated National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern calls the new Waters of the U.S. Rule "cumbersome, unclear and overly complicated." NMPF released the response Tuesday following the end-of-year announcement of the WOTUS final rule by the Environmental Protection Agency last week. The organization says that because the EPA's most recent iteration fails to resolve a 50-year struggle to define a water body subject to federal regulation under the Clean Water Act, NMPF members will face continued uncertainty as they attempt to comprehend and comply with unclear regulations. Mulhern says it's important to note that EPA's latest iteration is not a complete return to the unworkable rule adopted in 2015. Depending on the outcome of the Sackett case this spring, Mulhern adds, "it may be time for Congress to step in in a bipartisan manner to provide clarity regarding which bodies of water are under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act." *********************************************************************************** NOAA Proposes Seafood Import Monitoring Expansion The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration last week announced a proposed rule to expand the Seafood Import Monitoring Program. The risk-based program is for targeted species of seafood imported into the United States. NOAA says expanding the program would increase the number of species included in the program from approximately 1,100 individual species to approximately 1,600 individual species. The program currently establishes reporting and recordkeeping requirements for nearly half of all U.S. seafood imports to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and misrepresented seafood from entering U.S. commerce. The proposed expansion includes red snapper and tuna, to include all species in the snapper family and additional tunas, to minimize the risk of mislabeling and product substitution that is used to bypass requirements. In addition, the rule proposes to add cuttlefish and squid, eels, octopus, queen conch and Caribbean spiny lobster to the program. The rule also proposes to make additional modifications and improvements. *********************************************************************************** Arctic Blast Jolts Gas Prices Higher For the first time in two months, the nation's average gas price increased, rising 12.3 cents from a week ago to $3.17 per gallon. The national average is down 22.5 cents from a month ago and 9.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 1.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.67 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "Extremely cold weather led to many refinery issues, shutting down over a million barrels of refining capacity, pushing wholesale prices up." While the jump at the pump will likely be temporary as most refiners get back online after cold-weather-related issues, some regions, like the Rockies, may see more price increases than others. Additionally, China's reopening plans inspired markets that global oil demand will start to recover, as China's nearly three-year Covid-zero policies appear to be coming to an end.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 4, 2023 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The Institute of Supply Management's index of U.S. manufacturing for December is set for 9 a.m. CST Wednesday. Minutes from the latest Federal Reserve meeting will be out at 1 p.m. As usual, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, watch for any news of an export sale and likely be wary after Tuesday's sell-off in commodities. Weather A storm system continues to spin up around the Upper Midwest with continued light to moderate snow Wednesday. Meanwhile, the cold front will push eastward with a band or two of scattered showers from around the Appalachians eastward. Some additional severe weather will possible across the Southeast, a continuation of strong storms from Tuesday. Meanwhile, another storm will move into the West Coast.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 3, 2023 |
EPA Finalizes WOTUS Definition The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers announced a final rule establishing the definition of “Waters of the United States.” They say the rule reduces uncertainty from consistently changing regulatory definitions, protects people’s health, and supports economic opportunity. The final rule restores essential water protections that were in place before 2015 under the Clean Water Act for traditional navigable waters, the territorial seas, interstate waters, and the upstream water resources that significantly affect those waters. “Following extensive stakeholder engagement, EPA is delivering a durable definition of WOTUS that safeguards our nation’s waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people’s health,” says EPA Administrator Michael Regan. “It also provides greater certainty for farmers, ranchers, and landowners.” Michael Connor, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, says, “This definition provides clarity long desired by farmers, industry, environmental groups, and other stakeholders. It also allows for more effective rule implementation.” *********************************************************************************** Group Reacts to New WOTUS Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association responded to the newly-Published Waters of the U.S. Rule. The group says farmers and ranchers have dealt with the whiplash of shifting WOTUS definitions for far too long. “While the new rule retains longstanding exclusions for certain agricultural features, it still creates new uncertainty for farmers, ranchers, and landowners,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. NCBA previously asked the Environmental Protection Agency to retain agricultural exclusions for small, isolated, and temporary water features that commonly appear on farms and ranches. The new rule fails to clearly exempt isolated and ephemeral features from federal jurisdiction and relies on “case-by-case” determinations to assess whether a feature is federally regulated. Hart says the timing of the rule couldn’t be worse as the Supreme Court is currently considering Sackett v. EPA, which would provide much-needed clarity to the WOTUS definition. “Today’s rule seeks to directly preempt the Supreme Court,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Two Selected for AFBF Top Honors The American Farm Bureau Federation will present its highest honors to former Executive Vice President Dale Moore and former North Carolina Farm Bureau President Larry Wooten. The two will receive the Distinguished Service Award and the Farm Bureau Founders Award, respectively, during the 2023 AFBF annual convention in Puerto Rico. Farm Bureau established the Distinguished Service Award to honor individuals who’ve devoted their careers to serving the interest of American agriculture. The Founders Award is presented in recognition of outstanding achievements and work in the interest of Farm Bureau. Moore, a Kansas native, has been a champion of agriculture in the public and private sectors for more than 40 years. Wooten’s Farm Bureau career spans more than 50 years, peaking when he was elected president of the NCFB in 1999, a position he held until 2019. The American Farm Bureau’s annual convention is January 6-11 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Lowest Level in Two Months The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production plunged in the seven days that ended on December 23 to the lowest level in more than two months while inventories rose. Output during the week averaged 963,000 barrels a day, down from 1.029 million barrels a week earlier. The EIA report says that’s the lowest level since the week ending on October 7. The Midwest produces the most ethanol in the country and saw production drop to 906,000 barrels a day, on average, down from 975,000 the previous week. The Midwest drop was the entire loss during the week as production on the East Coast and in the Rocky Mountain regions was steady. West Coast output rose by an average of 1,000 barrels a day to 9,000 for the week. Ethanol stockpiles during the week rose to 24.63 million barrels. That’s the highest level of inventory since the seven days ending on April 8. *********************************************************************************** Taylor Sworn In as USDA Undersecretary Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack is pleased that Alexis Taylor was finally sworn in last week as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. Vilsack says Taylor has had a deep-rooted and impressive career working on matters related to agriculture, trade, and enhancing as many export opportunities as possible for America’s farmers and ranchers. “She’s not only spent her career serving the American people through her work in American agricultural and trade policy but also as a veteran of the U.S. Army,” Vilsack says. “I am confident Alexis is the right person to lead as we continue to address global food security challenges, promote American exports to new and existing markets across the globe, and strengthen trade relationships with our partners.” The secretary also looks forward to working with Taylor to help the agency better serve farmers and ranchers and link America’s agriculture producers to expanded global opportunities. *********************************************************************************** Important Ag Provisions in the Omnibus Bill President Biden signed the omnibus spending package into law that diverts a government shutdown and keeps it running until September 30, 2023. The bill with more than 4,000 pages contains many notable items important to U.S. farmers and ranchers. The bill includes $3.7 billion in disaster funding for crop and livestock losses due to drought and other problems in 2022. There is $350 million allocated for rice producer payments to compensate for the drop in revenue this year, as well as $100 million provided for payments to cotton merchandisers as a result of losses related to COVID or supply chain disruptions. Livestock Mandatory Reporting is extended until September 30, 2023. It also includes price transparency as the USDA and the Justice Department are to analyze issues regarding transparent meat pricing and price discovery for cattle producers. Raw or processed chicken imported from China can’t be used in the federal school lunch program.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 3, 2023 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from a three-day weekend and starting a new year, traders will get familiar with the latest weather forecasts and any news from over the New Year weekend. Many will pause at 8 a.m. CST to see if USDA has an export sale announcement and check in on USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CST. Weather A stronger winter storm has moved into the middle of the country for Tuesday. A band of wintry mix has developed from Nebraska into the Upper Midwest and will drop some heavy snow throughout the day as well as areas of significant freezing rain. Farther south, the cold front to the system will bring risks for severe thunderstorms from the Lower Mississippi River to the southern Appalachians. The rest of the Midwest continues to see areas of rain, being heavier along the Ohio River.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 30, 2022 |
U.S. Beef Exports to East Asia on a Record Pace The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service released a report titled “U.S. Beef Exports to East Asia on a Record Pace.” Despite economic uncertainties brought on by COVID, continued global supply chain challenges, and a competitive global beef market, American exports to East Asia were outstanding in the first half of 2022 in terms of value and volume. The report says, “During the first three quarters of 2022, U.S. beef exports to East Asia, including Korea, Japan, China/Hong Kong, and Taiwan, were a record $6.6 billion.” That’s a 22 percent increase on a value basis from last year’s exports worth $5.4 billion. “On a volume basis, the exports were up 6.4 percent,” the report says. “Despite surging food prices in recent months, higher-volume shipments indicate a continued demand for beef products.” It also shows that East Asia’s relatively stable middle class has high disposable income and is willing to absorb the rising costs. *********************************************************************************** What 2023 Will Mean for Ethanol Margins America’s ethanol industry saw its production margins get weaker late in 2022. MarketWatch says the ethanol industry outlook will depend on multiple factors. Margins have recently dropped below the same time last year. Iowa State University’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development says the average return over operating costs at a typical dry-mill ethanol plant was 34.64 cents per gallon. That’s over one dollar lower than the same time last year when the center put the average margin at $1.38 per gallon. The university says the average ethanol price in Iowa was at $2.44 a gallon, 85 cents lower year to year, while the average price of corn was $6.82 a bushel, about $1.10 higher than a year ago. Some of the key issues for the U.S. ethanol industry to watch include Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs), Carbon Capture Projects, the future of Small Refinery Exemptions, and fewer limits on E15 sales. *********************************************************************************** Baby Formula Imports Face Tariffs Again in 2023 Baby formula imports into the U.S. will be subject to tariffs again in 2023 as the exemptions implemented during a nationwide shortage are scheduled to expire. Reuters says the shortage began during supply chain issues brought on by COVID, and those issues began to get worse in February of this year. During that month, the biggest U.S. supplier recalled some products and closed down a manufacturing plant after reporting bacterial infections. Responding to the crisis, American health regulators relaxed import policies, and President Biden invoked the Cold War-era Defense Production Act to rebuild lagging supplies. Congress made the tariff waivers temporary as part of a deal to pass the measure quickly. Last August, Walmart and Target Corporation, two of the nation’s biggest retailers, said supplies of baby formula were improving. The maker of the biggest brand in the market, Enfamil, says formula shortages will likely persist until the spring of 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Over $9 Million in Bioproduct Development USDA is investing $9.5 million to support the scale-up of sustainable bioproduct manufacturing in the U.S. Three projects are getting funded through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Bioproduct Pilot Program. The program presents an opportunity to spur economic activity in the nation’s rural areas while lowering commercialization risks associated with bringing biobased products to market. “Adopting a more circular economy ensures that wealth and other economic benefits in the form of jobs and other opportunities are created, and stay, in rural communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We must support and incentivize practices like these because that’s what consumers want, and what farmers and our planet need.” The Pilot Program’s exploration into bioproducts accelerates USDA’s efforts to develop circular bio-economies, where agricultural resources are harvested, consumed, and regenerated in a sustainable manner. NIFA says each of the recommended projects can help bridge the gap between invention and the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** The Second Annual Ag Transporters Conference is in March Transportation Go! is a conference for soybean, grain, and other transportation issues in the Upper Midwest. It will take place March 15-16, 2023, in Omaha, Nebraska. It’s the second annual transportation conference after a successful debut event in Milwaukee earlier this year. “This is an active conference, not a passive one,” says Eric Wenberg, executive director of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance, which organizes and hosts the event. “We encourage discussion and expect real dialogue to take place during every segment of the agenda.” He also says there are many challenges in agricultural transportation, and this conference brings together smart and experienced people from different avenues of the supply chain into the same room to take on those challenges together. Omaha, a key ag transportation hub, will bring together the industry’s top stakeholders, from boots-on-the-ground commodity growers to traders and shippers of specialty field crops. For more information, go to transportationgo.com. *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Growers Looking Ahead to 2023 Trends The “2023 Meat Trends to Watch Report” says understanding the overarching trends in American meat consumption can help keep meat in the mix. “There are challenges ahead for the lamb industry, but there are also opportunities ahead,” says Peter Camino, American Lamb Board Chair. “But the entire industry will need to make changes to improve our competitiveness and profitability.” The report covers trends like economic pressures at the meat case, noting that while many are seeking less expensive cuts at the meat case, others are more open to experimenting in the kitchen. Others may also trade up at the counter instead of dining out. The report also covers sustainability, noting that it’s critical for products and businesses to talk to customers about their sustainability efforts. Other important topics in the report include health and wellness, convenience, and technology. The ALB is closely watching these trends and how they influence consumers.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 30, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, the only significant report of the day. Friday is a full day of trading, ahead of a three-day weekend for celebrating the New Year. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and watch for a possible export sales announcement at 8 a.m. CST. Weather A cold front will be moving slowly east from the Delta to the eastern Midwest on Friday. A band of showers and some thunderstorms has formed along the front, which will move into the Southeast and toward the Appalachians tonight. Some minor flooding may occur over the South as the rain moves through. Somewhat cooler temperatures are filling in behind the front back to the Rockies, but most areas are still above normal for this time of year.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 29, 2022 |
USDA Economist Not Worried About Potential Ag Trade Deficit USDA is forecasting an agricultural trade deficit in 2023. While deficits have happened in the past, the agency has never forecast one in advance until this year. The agency says ag exports are projected to reach $190 billion next year, but imports are projected to rise to $199 billion. Seth Meyer, chief economist with USDA, says an ag trade deficit isn’t a major cause for concern. “I’m of the opinion that having both rising exports and imports is a good thing,’ he says. “Farmers can sell their products at a good price while consumers can shop for what they want.” Ag exports are forecast to set another record during the fiscal year 2022 at $196.4 billion. If realized, that number would top the previous record of $177 billion in 2021. American exports currently face major pressure from the strong dollar value making U.S. products more expensive in the world’s markets. *********************************************************************************** Egg Prices Double During the Past Year Eggs are more expensive than they were last year. Marketplace says the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the price of a dozen Grade A eggs jumped from $1.82 last year to almost $3.60 in 2022. While part of the increase is due to the rising price of chicken feed, the real culprit is highly pathogenic avian influenza. It’s infected more than 57 million hens this year, starting in the spring and continuing to flare up through the rest of 2022. “Spring was the first time we had egg prices spike,” says Daniel Sumer, an ag economics professor at the University of California-Davis. He says eggs are a staple for many people and can’t be cut back on when the price rises. When prices go up, people tend to buy them anyway. “That drives the price higher and higher,” he says. “And that has to happen because the supplies are more limited.” *********************************************************************************** Omnibus Bill Included Pesticide Registration Improvement Act The recently-passed omnibus spending legislation contained the reauthorization of the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act, something important to CropLife America. The organization says it will strengthen and improve the Environmental Protection Agency’s pesticide registration process. The EPA’s scientists work diligently to comply with the multiple laws that govern pesticide registration, but, in recent years, the agency has fewer available scientists to do that work,” says Chris Novak, President of CLA. “The reauthorization of PRIA is a first step in improving the efficiency of the pesticide registration process and in providing more certainty for farmers, consumers, and CropLife’s member companies that EPA will meet its statutory obligations.” PRIA provides critically needed resources for the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs. The increased funding coupled with a variety of process and technology improvements, will allow EPA to increase staffing and better meet pesticide registration timeframes to give farmers the tools they need to manage pests. *********************************************************************************** Pork Leadership Institute Announces Class of 2023 The National Pork Producers Council and the National Pork Board are proud to announce that 19 pork producers from across the country have been selected for the Pork Leadership Institute’s class of 2023. Each year, the organizations select a leading group of producers to participate in the PLI program. Staff in both the NPPC and NPB work together with state pork association executives and field reps to identify key individuals from across America. The comprehensive, year-long process consists of five sessions that include learning about the federal legislative and regulatory processes, the importance of international trade, the roles of the national and state pork associations, and modern-day issues facing producers. “PLI is vital to the success of pork producers because it develops knowledgeable industry ambassadors and future leaders,” says NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. They also go through comprehensive media and communications training to become effective grassroots advocates for the pork industry. *********************************************************************************** CFTC Fines CHS Hedging $6.5 million in Fraud Case The Commodity Futures Trading Commission fined CHS Hedging of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, $6.5 million for anti-money laundering, risk management, recordkeeping, and supervision violations. The company also has to undertake certain remedial measures relating to the violations. CHS reportedly accepted millions of dollars in margin payments from a rancher in Washington without adequately investigating the customer’s source of funds or reporting suspicious activity. The scheme ran from 2017 through 2020. The Washington rancher involved in the case pled guilty to criminal fraud charges and was sentenced to 11 years in prison. A CFTC report says the violations are primarily the result of failing to implement an adequate anti-money laundering program, particularly as it applied to the futures and options trading account controlled by the Washington rancher. “The Commodity Exchange Act requires companies like CHS Hedging to have and actually implement adequate money laundering and risk management procedures,” says Acting Enforcement Director Gretchen Lowe. *********************************************************************************** USDA Says Seasonal Worker Numbers Jumped in 2021 It’s well known that American agricultural employers who anticipate a shortage of domestic workers can fill seasonal farm jobs with temporary foreign workers through the H-2A Visa Program. The Department of Labor officially certified approximately 317,000 temporary jobs in fiscal year 2021 under the H-2A program. That number was more than six times the number of jobs certified in 2005. Only about 80 percent of the certified jobs in 2021 resulted in the issuance of a visa. The program has grown partly in response to current U.S. domestic workers finding jobs outside of American agriculture and a drop in newly arrived immigrants looking for farm jobs in the U.S. Six states accounted for about half of the H-2A jobs that were filled in 2021, including Florida, Georgia, Washington, California, North Carolina, and Louisiana. Nationally, the average H-2A contract offered 24 weeks of employment and 39.3 hours per week at $13 per hour.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 28, 2022 |
UFW Assigns Blame for Lack of Immigration Action United Farm Worker leadership laid the blame for a lack of action in Washington on immigration at the feet of the Republican Party and the American Farm Bureau Federation. The Senate decided not to include worker immigration legislation in the fiscal year 2023 omnibus appropriations bill. The omnibus passed the House last week and is on the way to President Biden’s desk for his signature. “It’s a bitter disappointment for farm workers across the country who have earned the right to legal status through the sweat of their brow,” says UFW President Teresa Romero. She also called it unsurprising, saying that leaders of both groups want to keep farm workers living in fear and uncertainty. “They know that an undocumented workforce is easier to intimidate and exploit,” she says. Farm Bureau says the legislation will lead to wild swings in wage rates beyond the reach of many farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds Conservation Investments in Omnibus The National Association of Conservation Districts is grateful the fiscal year 2023 omnibus appropriations bill passed the House last week and was sent to the White House for signing. They say the agreement supports voluntary, locally-led conservation efforts across the country by providing strong funding for critical conservation programs and initiatives. The package includes no cuts to mandatory spending for USDA farm bill conservation programs like EQIP, CSP, RCPP, and CRP. It also has $941 million for Natural Resources Conservation Service Operations, including more than $800 million for Conservation Technical Assistance. That’s a $40 million increase compared to the 2022 funding level. The funding supports the work of conservation districts and other local partners to help producers assess resource needs, develop conservation plans, and implement effective conservation practices. There’s also $925 million for the NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection Program, of which $75 million goes to Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operations. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Numbers are Two Percent Below Last Year The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on December 1 was 73.1 million head. The recent Hog and Pig Report says that’s down from December 1 of last year and one percent lower than September 1, 2022. The breeding inventory was 6.15 million head, up slightly from last year and slightly higher than the prior quarter. Market hog inventory was 67 million head on December 1, down two percent from 2021 and one percent lower than last quarter in 2022. The September-November 2022 pig crop, at 33.7 million head, was one percent lower than in 2021. Sows farrowing during this period totaled three million head, down one percent from 2021. The sows that farrowed during the quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. Hog producers intend to have 2.95 million sows farrow during the December-February quarter, up one percent from the actual farrowings during the same period a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** Report Shows Price Increases for Different Food Types A new USDA report shows retail food prices increased 8.9 percent in the first seven months of this year. That increase is higher than the rate over the same period last year and 2020. All 13 food categories in the USDA report experienced faster price increases so far in 2022, compared with the same period last year and historical average price increases through July. All food categories saw price increases of at least four percent during the first seven months of 2022. Three food category prices increased by more than 10 percent: eggs at 21 percent, fats and oils were up 13 percent, and poultry rose 12 percent. Inflationary pressures differ by category. For example, eggs and poultry prices are currently much higher than their historical average because of an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Fresh vegetables increased the least of all categories in the first seven months of this year. *********************************************************************************** China Pushes for Ag Tech Progress President Xi (Zhee) Jinping is pushing for China to accelerate efforts to achieve self-reliance in agriculture technology. Farm Doc Policy News says China’s president identified seed development and core equipment among the areas he’d like the country to focus on. The central leadership had said in 2020 that the country’s seed industry was a weak link in its food chain and need to make more and better use of science and technology to turn that sector around. China is also expected to end the year with historically-low soymeal carryover stocks, which should increase its dependence on imported soybeans next year. Unfortunately for U.S. producers, Brazil’s soybeans, which get processed in China to make livestock feed, are currently more attractive than U.S. soybeans for February shipments. The news is considered positive for Brazilian farmers as some of them could begin harvesting their 2023 soybeans in as little as a week. *********************************************************************************** Ag’s Share of Total Export Value Hits New High The total value of U.S. exports has grown at an average annual rate of six percent since 2002, reaching a record high of $1.4 trillion in fiscal year 2021. Agriculture’s share of total U.S. exports has steadily increased between fiscal years 2002 and 2021. The value of America’s agricultural product exports rose by an average of 11 percent annually, exceeding the overall rate of increase for total U.S. exports. In 2021, ag exports accounted for 12 percent of the total value, up from nine percent in 2002. Growth in agricultural exports has largely been resilient to market shocks like COVID-19. Even as total U.S. exports fell by 12 percent during the onset of COVID in 2020, ag exports remained steady on the strength of surging shipments of soybeans, corn, and pork to China. Ag exports surged 23 percent to $172 billion in 2021. The export forecast is a record $196 billion in 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 28, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets On Wednesday, an index of U.S. pending home sales for November will be out at 9 a.m. CST, the only report of the day. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is pushed to Thursday during this four-day week. Traders will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts, check for a possible export sales announcement at 8 a.m. CST and keep an eye on outside markets. Weather Warmer, Pacific air continues to flood the country east of the Rockies and is supplanting the arctic blast from last week. That is opening the door for more storm systems to move through the country. One is moving through the Intermountain West on Wednesday and will emerge into the Plains tonight where showers will develop going into Thursday. Winds continue to increase ahead of this system Wednesday, with some wind advisories posted for the Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 27, 2022 |
Senate Confirms McKalip, Esteban The Senate approved the nominations of Doug McKalip as the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and Jose Esteban as USDA Undersecretary for Food Safety. Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow says the nominees waited three months for a long-overdue floor vote. “Doug McKalip has proven he’s ready for the essential task of growing new markets abroad and protecting our producers from unfair trade practices,” she says. During a confirmation hearing earlier this year, McKalip said, “It will be my duty to break down trade barriers to American food and ag exports.” He’ll also press trading partners to live up to existing agreements. As the undersecretary for food safety, Esteban will be the agency’s leader on issues ranging from preventing food-borne illnesses to the regulation of cell-cultured meat that’s now near commercialization. Ranking Senate Ag Committee Member John Boozman (BOZE-man) says Esteban brings years of experience to a crucial USDA position. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Applaud McKalip, Esteban Confirmations America’s leading agriculture groups applauded the Senate confirming Doug McKalip as the new Chief Agricultural Negotiator. The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip, “combines extensive international experience and almost 30 years of government service at USDA to help advance trade priorities and open up global markets.” American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says McKalip has proven to be more than qualified for the position because of his experience. U.S. Meat Export Federation President Dan Halstrom says filling McKalip’s position was essential as the U.S. is currently engaged in negotiations with several key trading partners. NCBA’s Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says Jose Esteban’s new role in food safety is essential for ensuring consumer confidence in the U.S. beef industry. The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council applaud the Senate’s confirmation. “This move ensures dairy farmers will be at the negotiating table,” says NMFP CEO Jim Mulhern. *********************************************************************************** Egg Prices Hit Record Levels Egg prices are hitting record levels. Free Republic Dot Com says the surge in price is being driven by an avian-influenza outbreak that’s killed tens of millions of chickens and turkeys in the U.S. this year. Wholesale prices of Midwest large eggs hit a record of $5.36 a dozen this month. Retail egg prices are rising faster than any other items in American supermarkets in 2022. Egg prices are up 30 percent from January through early December compared to the same period last year and are outpacing overall food and beverage prices. Some suppliers are predicting potential price relief by February or Mach, but cold weather could slow production in the near term. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has led to the death of 58 million birds, making it the deadliest outbreak in U.S. history. USDA says entire flocks have to be destroyed after an infection is confirmed to limit potential spread. *********************************************************************************** Democrats Don’t Make Changes in House Leadership Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives aren’t making any changes to their leaders on the Agriculture and Education and Labor Committees, even after losing a majority. Representatives David Scott of Georgia and Bobby Scott of Virginia won positions as ranking members of the Agriculture and Education and Labor Committees, respectively, after being chairs in the previous Congress. “I’m very pleased to get elected by my friends and Democratic colleagues to serve as a ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee for the next Congress,” Scott says. “I believe we have accomplished important groundwork leading up to the 2023 Farm Bill, and I’m looking forward to doing our best to meet the needs of producers and consumers in this important legislation.” The House Education and Labor Committee has jurisdiction over child nutrition programs, and Bobby Scott says governing should be about “improving the lives of people from all walks of life.” *********************************************************************************** AFBF: Risk Management Tools a Farm Bill Priority During volatility in the markets, managing risk remains a priority for farmers and ranchers. New analysis from the American Farm Bureau Federation examines several farm bill risk management tools included in Title 1 and explains the impact and importance to farmers. The analysis provides a historical perspective, including changes made in the 2018 Farm Bill to reauthorize and strengthen the PLC and ARC price and revenue programs. These programs were created in the 2014 Farm Bill to provide shallow-loss risk management coverage. AFB Economist Shelby Myers says that one factor remains consistent as farmers and ranchers faced unprecedented circumstances in recent years, and that’s the need for a variety of risk management options. Programs like ARC and PLC have to fit farmers’ and ranchers’ unique situations. Risk management tools like these are vital to farmers and ranchers being able to mitigate the unpredictable nature of farming. To read the report, go to fb.org. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Donates 30,000 Pounds of Food Smithfield Foods donated 30,000 pounds of protein, enough for 120,000 servings, to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore to help fight food insecurity during the holidays. The donation includes hams, bacon, lunch meat, and smoked sausage and is part of Smithfield’s Helping Hungry Homes Program. “Providing for the needs of our neighbors is a year-round job,” says Christopher Tan, President and CEO of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. “A large gift is especially meaningful at this time of year when families should be celebrating the holiday season, not worrying about finding food to put on their tables.” Smithfield has donated hundreds of millions of protein servings to food banks, disaster relief efforts, and community outreach programs in all 50 states. “The holiday season can be stressful, and no one should worry about their next meal,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 27, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the Christmas holiday, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and any news that broke over the three-day weekend. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be released at 10 a.m. CST and don't be surprised if numbers are low, given last week's bitter cold temperatures and pre-holiday mood. Traders will also watch to see if USDA has an export sales announcement at 8 a.m. CST. Weather The visit from the polar vortex over the Christmas holiday is short-lived as warmer temperatures that built up over the West are spreading eastward this week. In spite of the surge in temperatures, precipitation will be limited to the West on Tuesday. Highs: 10s/20s northern Canadian Prairies; 20s/30s Midwest; 30s/40s Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, Delta; 40s/60s Central and Southern Plains, Southeast.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 23, 2022 |
Senate Confirms Alexis Taylor to USDA Post The Senate voted to confirm Alexis Taylor as the new USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Affairs. Taylor, the former director of Oregon’s Department of Agriculture, is the new top agricultural trade official with the agency. Food Business News says she’ll be responsible for overseeing international negotiations related to agricultural trade, developing America’s trade policies, promoting U.S. agriculture overseas, and opening up new markets for American commodities. At a nomination hearing in September, Taylor said her top priorities would be working with the U.S. Trade Representative on a path toward country-of-origin labeling that would be compliant with World Trade Organization rules. She also intends to hold Canada and Mexico to their commitments under the USMCA and will expand export markets for dairy and other farm products within the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. She’ll also be involved in food safety issues by working to contain highly pathogenic avian influenza cases without market disruption. *********************************************************************************** Group Says Congress Failed Farmers, Farmworkers, and American Consumers Congress failed to include immigration solutions in the omnibus package and the American Business Immigration Coalition Action group isn’t happy with that. Coalition Executive Director Rebecca Shi (she) says they regret that this Congress failed to show the courage needed to advance immigration solutions for farmer workers and farmers, for Dreamers, the U.S. economy, and consumers. “There is a reason why Congress remains one of the most unpopular institutions in our nation,” Shi says. “At the end of the day, Republicans still prefer to complain about the border than to compromise on solutions, and Democrats have much higher priorities than standing up for hardworking immigrants.” The group says America’s farmers are struggling to find the amount of workers they need to stay in business, driving record-high food inflation. Bringing two million dreamers out of the shadows would create more than 1.4 million jobs for Americans and $46 billion in economic spending. *********************************************************************************** New Report Lays Out Priorities for U.S. Dairy Reform A new report from the American Farm Bureau Federation lays out priorities, principles, and recommendations for reforming dairy policy. A Farm Bureau Working Group explored options for strengthening the dairy industry through the 2023 Farm Bill and modernizing the current Federal Milk Marketing Order. Some of the priorities for FMMO reform include returning the Class 1 mover to a “higher-of” formula, increasing the Class 1 differentials to reflect changes in the marketplace, and making cost surveys mandatory and have them audited by USDA, and several others. “America’s dairy farmers continue to meet the challenges of growing demand for milk products, even while the number of dairy farmers in the U.S. continues to shrink,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. “These recommendations convey the needs of dairy farmers across the country.” Farm Bureau also says the report gives guidance to USDA as it prepares for future hearings on modernizing the FMMO system. *********************************************************************************** Groups Respond Positively to Taylor Confirmation The Senate confirmed Alexis Taylor as USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, and U.S. ag groups reacted positively. “Alexis has a strong background in agriculture from growing up on a farm in Iowa and has a deep knowledge of trade issues,” says the U.S. Grains Council. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “Trade is critically important to U.S. agriculture, and she’ll be a strong advocate on the world stage and a capable leader for USDA staff.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says Taylor will be a “tremendous asset to USDA and a champion for U.S. agriculture.” The American Soybean Association also reacted positively to the announcement. Stephen Censky, ASA CEO, says, “Alexis has a depth of knowledge about agricultural trade and public policy that will serve her well in this post.” Groups like NCBA and the National Milk Producers Federation welcomed the nomination. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agencies Partner to Promote Global Food Safety The USDA, U.S. Agency for International Development, and the Food and Drug Administration launched the Food Safety for Food Security Partnership, also known as FS4FS. The initiative includes a $15 million investment over the next few years to support the availability and trade of safe food products to reduce poverty, hunger, and malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries. Foreign Ag Service Administrator Daniel Whitley says the initiative developed after the U.S.-African leaders summit, where many African heads of state asked for help in developing science-based measures and standards for food safety. “Through the new partnership, we will work together to address those needs, which are vital to ensuring greater access to safe and nutritious foods across Africa,” Whitley says. The agencies will also work to build on the success of Feed the Future and work with countries around the world to increase access to safe and nutritious foods and unlock trade opportunities. *********************************************************************************** China is World’s Number One in Ag Research and Development Public agricultural research and development funding has trended lower in the United States during the last several decades. However, a USDA report shows several of America’s top trading partners have increased their funding. The EU’s expenditures have grown since 2000, as have the funding pools in India and Brazil. But no country has experienced as rapid an increase in funding as China, which became the largest funder of agricultural R & D after 2011, surpassing the European Union. As recently as 2015, China was spending more than $10 billion yearly on agricultural R & D. That level was roughly twice what the U.S. spent in 2015 and nearly quintupled China’s own R & D spending in 2000. With China a major importer of U.S. agricultural goods and Brazil a competitor to the U.S. in global corn and soybean markets, these developments could have a significant impact on America’s export competitiveness.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 23, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets In spite of being the last day of trading before Christmas, Friday has several reports on the docket and will be a normal trading session. The U.S. Commerce Department reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for November at 7:30 a.m. CST, the same time as a report on U.S. durable goods is out. At 9 a.m., the University of Michigan's report on consumer sentiment in December is due along with a report on U.S. new home sales for November. At 2 p.m., USDA will release cattle on-feed and the quarterly inventory of hogs and pigs, both for December 1. After the Christmas holiday, trading for grain and livestock futures will start again Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m. CST. Weather A strong arctic front has passed through most of the country, with only the Northeast yet to go. Temperatures have fallen to significantly low values Friday morning and will continue to be frigid through the weekend. Winds remain high across much of the country, creating blowing snow and blizzard conditions harsh for travel, and dangerous windchills for humans and livestock. Precipitation is moving off to the East Coast, though lake-effect snows will wind up during the day. Snow is falling in the Pacific Northwest as well, a sign of a more active pattern for the West to close out 2022.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 22, 2022 |
Sustainable Ag Coalition Supports Omnibus, Looks Into Ag Provisions The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition says it supports the 2023 omnibus appropriations bill. It’s also looked into several agricultural provisions included in the bill. The coalition says the bill includes $242 billion for discretionary programs funded annually and mandatory programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. NSAC is pleased to see higher investments in a couple of key programs, including a $5 million increase for the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and a more than $40 million increase for Conservation Technical Assistance. The coalition is also pleased to see expanded support for the Farm to School Grant Program, which will see a $2 million boost in its allocation, now at $14 million. NSAC Interim Policy Director Mike Lavender says, “The bill includes several key funding increases, though by and large maintains level funding for many programs.” They’re hopeful the bill gets to the president’s desk for signature as soon as possible. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Applauds USTR Actions Against Canada’s Dairy Practices The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council applaud U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai’s actions under USMCA regarding Canada’s dairy market. Tai is filing a new request for dispute settlement consultations with Canada in order to expand the scope of the second USMCA dairy dispute to include additional elements necessary to ensure Canada complies with its trade agreement obligations. “We thank USTR and USDA for their diligence in working to ensure that American dairy producers have the market access promised under USMCA,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “Canada continues to flagrantly flout its obligations, so the U.S. government needs to be ready with retaliatory measures.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, says it’s deeply unfortunate that Canada refuses to honor the full terms of the agreement. “USMCA is a fair deal that was thoroughly negotiated and agreed to by the Canadian government,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Industry Rail Shippers Welcome STB Rulings on Rate Disputes The U.S. Surface Transportation Board has put more streamlined processes in place for rail rate disputes that may benefit agricultural shippers. The STB established a voluntary arbitration program and a new procedure for rate challenges, known as the Final Offer Rate Review. Wheat farmers and the grain trade rely heavily on rail to transport wheat to export terminals, but rates for hauling wheat are often higher than for other crops. The U.S. Wheat Associates’ Working Transportation Group is pleased that the STB recognizes rail shippers need new and innovative ways to engage railroads on rate concerns. “These rulings are a welcome sign that rail customers like wheat farmers are being heard,” says Charlie Vogel, working group chair. “The voluntary arbitration program and the FORR process will help give smaller shippers a greater ability to challenge rail rates.” STB Chair Martin Oberman says they wanted to make smaller rail disputes reasonable and less time-consuming. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Down Five Percent in November American egg production totaled 8.87 billion in November, down five percent from the same time last year. Production included 7.62 billion table eggs and 1.25 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.16 billion were broiler-type and 92.1 million were egg-type. The average number of layers in November totaled 375 million, down four percent from last year. November egg production per 100 layers was 2,369 eggs, slightly lower than last November. Total layers in the U.S. on December 1 totaled 374 million, five percent lower than last year. The layers consisted of 308 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 62 million layers were broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.74 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Egg-type chicks hatched during November reached 46.5 million, up two percent from the previous November. Broiler-type chicks hatched during November totaled 810 million, one percent higher than in November 2021. Leading breeders placed 7.68 million broiler-type pullet chicks in November. *********************************************************************************** National Ag Day Essay Contest Looking for Entries Ahead of National Ag Day on March 21, 2023, the Agriculture Council of America is hosting an essay contest. The theme for the year is Growing a Climate for Tomorrow: How American Agriculture Does it Every Day. The essay contest is divided into two categories, either a written essay or a video essay. Both are national competitions and both winners get $1,000. The contest is open to students currently in grades 9 through 12. They must be a U.S. citizen and attend school in the U.S. The National Ag Day Program encourages every American to understand how food and fiber products are produced. It also teaches people to appreciate the role that agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable food products. The deadline for submitting entries in the essay contest is February 15, 2023. Go to agday.org for more information on contest rules, entry forms, or National Ag Day 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Says Dairy Exports Hit Record Levels USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service released its biannual report on America’s dairy exports. The report found that U.S. dairy exports are setting records this year in terms of value. The report covers January through October and says this increase was driven by strong prices for dairy products. Overall values are up 25 percent. Whey exports led the way with a 37 percent increase since last year. USDA says the increase in export value didn’t necessarily coincide with an increase in export volume. In fact, nonfat dry milk export volume dropped eight percent while the value went up by 27 percent. Ice cream and dry whole milk and cream saw a decrease in export volume by one and two percent, respectively. On average, volumes rose by five percent. Butter and milk fat were the only categories where volume growth outpaced growth in value. Volume increased 43 percent while the value rose 30 percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 22, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and updates of third-quarter U.S. GDP and the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Conference Board's U.S. index of leading indicators from November will be out at 9 a.m., but weather will get most of the day's attention with bone-chilling temperatures and snow fanning out across the central U.S. Traders will also keep an eye on South American forecasts. Weather An arm of the polar vortex is sweeping through the middle of the country on Thursday. Very cold temperatures are filling in behind a cold front, which is producing a band of snow as well. Winds behind the front are intense and areas that have snow cover will see blizzard conditions developing. The southwestern Plains may see cold damage on wheat over the next couple of mornings while livestock are at extreme risk.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 21, 2022 |
Omnibus Includes Growing Climate Solutions Act, SUSTAINS Act The National Milk Producers Federation commended Congress for including the Growing Climate Solutions Act and the SUSTAINS Act in its final fiscal year 2023 budget package. The measures will help dairy farmers seek additional sustainability opportunities as they work to fulfill the dairy sector’s voluntary, producer-led goal of becoming greenhouse gas neutral or better by 2050. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “Environmental markets and conservation programs have the potential to meaningfully assist dairy producers as they work to meet their 2050 environmental stewardship goals.” The Growing Climate Solutions Act would enable USDA to register technical service providers that help farmers implement stewardship practices that can generate credits on environmental markets. The SUSTAINS Act would allow private sector funds to supplement existing funding for farm bill conservation programs, which are continuously oversubscribed. The Senate will vote on the omnibus appropriations bill this week which also includes $40 billion in disaster funding. *********************************************************************************** US Requests New USMCA Dispute Consultations on Canadian Dairy TRQ Policies United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai Tuesday announced that the United States is requesting new dispute settlement consultations with Canada under the United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement. The request is over Canada’s dairy tariff-rate quota, or TRQ, allocation measures. Since initiating consultations with Canada in May 2022, the United States has identified additional aspects of Canada's measures that appear to be inconsistent with Canada's obligations under the USMCA, and U.S. concerns have only increased. With this new request, the United States expands its challenge of Canada’s dairy TRQ allocation measures to include Canada’s use of a market-share approach for determining TRQ allocations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Canada remains in violation of its commitments under the USMCA by not removing its trade restrictions on American dairy producers.” In January 2022, a USMCA dispute settlement panel found Canada’s dairy TRQ allocation measures to be inconsistent with Canada’s USMCA obligations. *********************************************************************************** USDA and USTR Seek New Trade Advisory Committee Members The Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees. Members of the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee advise the administration on implementing and enforcing existing U.S. trade agreements, negotiation of new agreements, and other trade policy matters. Members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees, or ATACs, provide technical advice and guidance on international trade issues that affect specific agricultural commodity sectors. The ATACs focus on trade in animals and animal products, fruits and vegetables, grains, feed, oilseeds, and planting seeds, processed foods, sweeteners and sweetener products, tobacco, cotton, and peanuts. Applicants must have expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade to be considered for committee membership. Application instructions are available at fas.usda.gov. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $9.5M to Develop New Bioproducts from Agricultural Commodities The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an investment of $9.5 million to support the scale-up of sustainable bioproduct manufacturing in the United States. Three successful projects are funded through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Bioproduct Pilot Program, which funds research and development of value-added products from agricultural commodities. Authorized and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Bioproduct Pilot Program presents a unique opportunity to spur economic activity in the nation’s rural areas while lowering commercialization risks associated with bringing biobased products to market. The program’s exploration into bioproducts accelerates USDA’s efforts to develop circular bioeconomies, where agricultural resources are harvested, consumed, and regenerated sustainably. This pilot program also supports the objectives outlined in President Biden's recent Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing for a Sustainable, Safe, and Secure American Bioeconomy. The three awardees are Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Soylei Innovations of Ames, Iowa. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Vegetable Prices Spike in 2022 Fresh-market vegetable crops in California, Florida, and Mexico were hit with a variety of inclement weather this summer and fall. The adverse weather reduced supplies and contributed to higher shipping-point prices, according to a USDA Economic Research Service report. Shipping-point prices for fresh vegetables are expected to remain above seasonal norms until new or replanted fields are harvested in late December or early January. While retail prices for all food rose at the quickest year-over-year pace since 1979, up about ten percent, retail fresh vegetable prices, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, rose six percent during the first three quarters of 2022. Driven primarily by rising transport costs and higher prices for key items such as potatoes, onions, and lettuce, when complete this year, the Consumer Price Index for fresh vegetables will likely present the largest year-to-year gain since an 11 percent surge in 1998. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Soybean Oil for Biofuels Has Limited Impact on Overall Food Prices A new study shows U.S.-grown soybeans are well suited for people looking to cook, fuel up or find other sustainable solutions. The United Soybean Board partnered with Purdue University to evaluate whether the increased use of soybean oil in biofuels has contributed to the rising retail prices of food products for consumers. One key element missing from this equation is that only one-fifth of the soybean is oil, most of the soybean is meal used as a high-quality protein in animal diets. This expanded crush for oil to meet biofuel demand creates increased availability for meal, driving down the price of animal protein products. Jayson Lusk of Purdue University says, “What we found, after assessing the impact of rising soybean oil demand on prices at the grocery store, was little change to the Consumer Price Index.” While the increased demand for biofuels pushed up retail prices for oil between 0.16 percent and 4.41 percent, retail animal product prices declined between -0.01 percent and -0.16 percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 21, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Wednesday is the first official day of winter and it will definitely feel like winter for anyone in the northern U.S. There are reports of U.S. consumer confidence in December and U.S. existing home sales in November at 9 a.m. CST, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. Traders continue to closely watch the latest weather forecasts, especially for Argentina. Weather A significant low pressure system is pushing into the central U.S. Wednesday, and it will continue to bring snow to much of the north central U.S. into Wednesday night. Accompanying the snow will be very cold temperatures extending from the Northern Plains into the central Plains and Upper Midwest. Wind gusts up to 40-50 mph will also accompany the snowfall, creating blizzard conditions and dangerously cold wind chills.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 20, 2022 |
2022 Census of Agriculture Underway The Department of Agriculture Last week mailed the 2022 Census of Agriculture paper questionnaires to all known agriculture producers across the nation and Puerto Rico. Producers in the states received their survey codes last month with an invitation to respond online. Any producer who has yet to respond online now has the option to complete the ag census at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. Producers who have already responded online do not need to respond again. The deadline for response is February 6, 2023. USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “We know producers are busy, which is why NASS worked to make responding to the ag census more convenient than ever before.” The Census of Agriculture remains the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and U.S. territory. Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by law, and the same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential. *********************************************************************************** Mexico Offers Amendments to Biotech Decree The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and the Department of Agriculture are evaluating proposed amendments to Mexico’s decree to ban the use and purchase of biotech commodities. In a joint statement, USTR Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack say, “We agreed to review their proposal closely and follow up with questions or concerns in short order,” adding, “There is a joint recognition that time is of the essence and we must determine a path forward soon.” The two officials met with a delegation of senior Mexican Government officials in Washington, D.C. late last week. On the same day, a group of more than 20 farm-state Senators urged USTR and USDA to take action against Mexico’s proposal to ban U.S. genetically-engineered corn. The Senators write, “It would be detrimental to food security in Mexico, hurt U.S. agricultural sustainability, and stifle future agricultural technology innovations that would benefit both nations.” *********************************************************************************** Iowa State University Cover Crop Report A new report from the Iowa State University Center for Agricultural and Rural Development summarizes five years of data on Iowa farmers' use of cover crops. The survey was administered to farmers who visited local conservation field offices and received technical assistance related to cover crops. The more than 3,000 responses shed light on Iowa farmers' rationale and motivations to use cover crops, the timing of planting and termination, the types and extent of varieties used, and farmers' preferred information sources. The most prevalent types of operations using cover crops were farms producing row crops and cattle, and farms producing row crops but no livestock. Most respondents seeded cover crops on erodible land, and only on a portion of their fields. The stated motivations to use cover crops reported by at least two-thirds of the respondents include preventing soil erosion, building soil organic matter, improving soil health, and improving/protecting water quality. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program Alltech recently announced Applications are now open for the Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program. Now in its third year, the free-to-join program matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include gender of mentor, areas of expertise, language and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. Alltech President and CEO Mark Lyons says, “We view our involvement in the Women in Food & Agriculture mentorship program as an investment not only in the lives of women but in the future of agriculture.” Women in Food & Agriculture is looking for mentors of any gender who have at least one year of experience in the food and ag sector. During matching, the organization will ensure all mentors have more work experience than mentees, so this should not be a barrier to mentors applying. For more information and to apply to be a mentor or mentee, visit wfa-initiative.com *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation to host 150 Years of Angus Celebration The Angus Foundation will host a 150 Years of Angus Celebration on January 6 at Cattlemen's Congress in Oklahoma City. In 1873, George Grant settled in Victoria, Kansas, with four Angus bulls from Scotland. The evening of Angus fellowship will feature door prizes and auction items to benefit the Foundation's mission, food and refreshments and the announcement of the 2023 Angus Herdsman of the Year. Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director, says, "We're proud of the Angus legacy built over the past 150 years, and we know through the work of the Foundation and our supporters, the future looks just as promising." The evening's auction will feature several exciting lots, including a Two-Night Wine Country Getaway for Six and a Live Oak Plantation Experience and Quail Hunt. Funds raised through the auction will benefit the Angus Fund, which provides unrestricted support for the Foundation's mission of furthering Angus education, youth and research. For more information, visit www.AngusFoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Price Decline Continues, But End in Sight The nation's average gas price declined again last week, falling 11.9 cents to $3.09 per gallon. The national average is down 57.1 cents from a month ago and 20 cents per gallon from a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 14.1 cents last week, reaching $4.77 per gallon. Overall, the price for a gallon of gasoline is down nearly $2 compared to six months ago, but oil prices may put an end to the declines soon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “While the decline should take the national average under $3 per gallon in the next week or so, it is soon likely to fade as oil prices have held in the $70 per barrel range.” After reaching as low as $72 per barrel, West Texas Intermediate crude oil has seen a slight rally on China’s reopening plans. However, De Haan says diesel prices could fall another 50 cents or more in the weeks ahead.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 20, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts for November is set for 7:30 a.m. CST Tuesday, the only significant report on the day's docket. Traders will keep watch on the latest weather forecasts and any outside news that emerges. Traders will also pause at 8 a.m. to see if USDA has an export sale to announce. Weather While a very cold airmass still remains across the Canadian Prairies and the north central U.S. Tuesday, a significant low pressure system is developing in the northern Rockies and will push east throughout the day, eventually reaching the northwest plains later Tuesday night. Meanwhile, a disturbance bringing rain showers across the southern Mississippi Valley will continue pushing east into the Southeast throughout Tuesday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 19, 2022 |
Group Supports Modernizing H-2A Visa Program The American Business Coalition Immigration Action group applauded the Senate introduction of the Affordable and Safe Food Act. The legislation would modernize the nation’s farm guest worker H-2A visa program by opening it up to more farmers. “ABIC Action fully endorses this bill and is so grateful for the leadership of Senator Michael Bennet in introducing the legislation,” says ABIC executive director Rebecca Shi (she). The bill would make visas available for year-round work in the dairy industry and other agricultural sectors, put a down payment on border security with mandatory e-verify, stabilize wages for farmers, and create legal protections and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented decade-plus farm workers. Senator Bennet says the cost of farm labor has gone up almost 50 percent over the past decade, much higher than wage costs in other sectors of the economy. The bill would save farmers $23 billion over the next 12 years. *********************************************************************************** EPA: New Biofuel Mandates Will Boost GHG in Short Term The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed changes to the nation’s biofuel blending mandates through 2025 will cause a short-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions. However, agency documents also say the changes will yield long-term reductions. The new proposal will add to greenhouse gas emissions over the next three years by between 81 million and 266 million tons. A Reuters review of the documents says the rise will come from new tiling for corn, soy, and other plantings that release carbon from the soil. EPA’s GHG calculator says that’s the climate equivalent of driving 17 million and 57 million vehicles for one year. However, EPA also projects those emissions will be more than offset in the long term due to reduced tailpipe emissions and other factors. Those figures are assuming biofuel volume mandates don’t change after 2025. EPA says the proposal would reduce GHGs by between 128 million and 1.6 billion metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Groups Argue in Court to Preserve Chlorpyrifos A total of 20 agricultural groups argued before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., about chlorpyrifos. Specifically, they asked the court to reinstate chlorpyrifos tolerances that the Environmental Protection Agency has found safe. EPA revoked those safe tolerances, which effectively ended agriculture’s chance to use an important pesticide. The decision has inflicted enormous costs on thousands of American farmers and undermined their ability to protect their crops from potentially devastating insect pests. The groups say EPA revoked the safety tolerances despite finding on multiple occasions that at least 11 high-benefit crop uses could be safely maintained. American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “Farmers rely on regulators following the law. Congress wrote the pesticide laws that way to provide growers access to the tools they need to be successful and ensure those tools can be used safely.” The groups are hopeful for a ruling in the coming months. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Receives Large USDA Grant From FAS Emerging Markets Program The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture was awarded a USDA grant worth $925,000 through the Foreign Agricultural Services’ Emerging Markets Program. The EMP helps organizations promote exports of agricultural products to developing countries with strong growth potential. “We are excited for NASDA members to engage in critical discussions to support global market development and strengthen bilateral trade relationships,” says NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. The group will use the funding to conduct market research in emerging markets in Southeast Asia and Africa. NASDA will also organize outbound trade missions for state department of agriculture leaders to learn about the markets and engage in discussions with relevant parties in each country. “Our members understand how important it is to spread the message about the value and quality of U.S. products and the benefits of innovation around the world,” McKinney says. “The first step in earning trading partners is establishing open communication.” *********************************************************************************** Iowa Farmland Prices Jump Again Iowa State University’s annual Land Value Survey shows farmland values are averaging $11,411 an acre in 2022, a 17 percent rise from last year. ISU says farmers have a lot more cash on hand, and supply chain issues led to a shortage of equipment, so the money typically spent on equipment is now getting used to buy land. The survey included responses from land appraisers, farm managers, and lenders. Seventy percent of the people surveyed said land values were “too high” or “way too high.” However, 48 percent of the participants also expect prices to be higher a year from now. About 28 percent expect lower land values next year, and 24 percent expect prices to hold steady. The survey began in 1941, and the 2022 farmland value of $11,411 per acre is the highest in history. When adjusted for inflation, this year’s value comes in at $8,716 an acre. *********************************************************************************** Commodity Sales to Overseas Buyers Surge USDA says sales of grains and soybeans climbed week-to-week during the week ending on December 8. Soybean sales took a healthy jump to 2.94 million metric tons, up from 1.72 million the week before. Sales surged as China bought 1.25 million metric tons, and another unnamed country purchased 1.03 million metric tons. However, exports for the week fell to 1.85 million metric tons, down from 2.25 million tons the week before. Corn sales totaled 958,900 metric tons, a sharp jump from 692,000 during the previous week. Guatemala was the top buyer at 196,400 metric tons, and Mexico bought almost 171,000 metric tons. Export sales for the week hit 591,000 metric tons, down from a little over 900,000 tons the previous week. Wheat sales rose to 469,000 metric tons, a sharp rise from 190,000 during the previous week. Exports were reported at 255,900 metric tons, down slightly from the previous week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 19, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend and getting close to Christmas, USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CST is the only item on Monday's docket. Trading may be slower than normal this week, but changing weather forecasts, outside market concerns and the constant threat of Russian mischief will keep us all paying attention. Weather A very cold airmass will remain across the Canadian Prairies into the north central U.S. Monday. Meanwhile, a two-part system will provide rain showers and a few thunderstorms across the south central U.S. with snow showers across the north.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 16, 2022 |
USDA Invests in Infrastructure to Combat Climate Change in Rural America Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Thursday announced USDA is investing $285 million in critical infrastructure. The investment seeks to lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy for people across rural America, and combat climate change. USDA is also making an additional $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program, including $250 million through the Inflation Reduction Act, to spur further investment. Vilsack says, "People in rural America are on the front lines of climate change, and our communities deserve investments that will strengthen our Country's resilience." USDA is making 844 investments through the Rural Energy for America Program. The program helps farmers purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. USDA also announced that it will make $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program to expand renewable energy and support energy-efficiency projects. The deadline to apply for grants is March 31, 2023. Applications for technical assistance grants are due January 31, 2023. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round. *********************************************************************************** Bennet, Newhouse, Introduce Last Minute Farm Labor Bill In a last-minute effort to get H-2A reform finished before Congress adjourns, lawmakers have introduced a new bill. Senator Michael Bennet, a Democrat from Colorado and Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican, introduced the Affordable and Secure Food Act Thursday. The legislation will reform the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker program by expanding H-2A visas to year-round jobs for the first time, modernizing the application process, creating more wage certainty, and ensuring critical protections for farm workers. Senator Bennet says, “This plan is broadly supported by farmers, by labor, by immigration advocates, and business,” adding, “There is no reason that we shouldn’t get this done.” Representative Newhouse says, “let’s stop waiting, and start acting,” and “reform our broken immigration laws.” The legislation reflects years of close input from farmers and ranchers, agricultural workers, and labor organizations, and would establish a program for agriculture workers, along with their spouses and minor children, to earn legal status. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases 2021 Organics Data USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Thursday released the results of the 2021 Organic Survey. The survey shows total sales of $11.2 billion in organic products, an increase of $1.28 billion, or 13 percent, from 2019. There were 17,445 certified organic farms, a five percent increase from 2019. California continued to lead the nation in certified organic sales with $3.55 billion, which is 32 percent of the U.S. total. It also led all states with more than 3,000 certified farms and 813,700 certified acres. Washington, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Oregon, round out the top five states for value of organic sales. Marketing practices in the certified organic farming sector showed that $2.02 billion in organic products were sold directly to retail markets, institutions, and local/regional food hubs. Another $310 million in organic products were sold directly to consumers. The value of processed or value-added products such as jam, wine, cheese, and meat, accounted for $707 million. *********************************************************************************** McKinsey & Company Release Global Farmer Survey Results Despite economic disturbances, high crop prices are giving farmers around the world cause for cautious optimism, according to a new survey. Global consultancy McKinsey & Company this week released the results of its global survey of 5,500 farmers from nine countries. Seventy percent of farmers expect profits to remain stable or increase - the result of higher crop prices driving profitability in the next two years. Consequently, farmers are being inspired to invest in new products that are focused on yield increase and crop protection. Despite an uncertain future with supply chains impacted by geopolitical conflicts, farmers are facing the changes head on, innovating in new areas and adopting new strategies. Vasanth Ganesan, Partner at McKinsey, says, “Products and services should be tailored and personalized for growers, to stimulate uptake and provide farmers access to yield-driving technologies and greater cost-efficiencies. McKinsey & Company is a global management consulting firm in more than 130 cities and 65 countries. *********************************************************************************** CHS Releases 2022 Sustainability Report CHS recently released the 2022 CHS Sustainability Report, describing the company's approach to sustainability and highlighting some of its sustainability initiatives. The actions taken by CHS will help the company reduce its impact on the planet, respond to opportunities related to enhanced sustainability and continue to build a better future for the farmers and ranchers who own the cooperative system. In 2022, CHS added Megan Rock as vice president, sustainability and innovation and chief sustainability officer. CHS will place an emphasis on helping owners, and other stakeholders understand the company's approach to environmental, social, and corporate governance reporting, including providing definitions and interpretations in the 2022 CHS Sustainability Report. The company is also exploring technologies that impact supply chain automation, real-time soil sensing and traceability in row crops as part of its sustainability efforts. For an in-depth look into the 2022 CHS Sustainability Report, visit chsinc.com/sustainability. *********************************************************************************** “Yellowstone” Creator to Speak at Annual Cattle Industry Convention Taylor Sheridan will speak during the Opening General Session of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans on February 1. Sheridan will join NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, a Minnesota cattle producer, for a conversation about ranch life. Sheridan says, “My passion for the ranching lifestyle has inspired me to write stories that are rich in history, led by complex characters, and focus on family dynamics.” Sheridan is an Academy Award®-nominated writer and actor as well as a member of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. A Texas native himself, Sheridan excels in the Western horse performance industry as an avid supporter and competitor in reining and cutting. He also owns and operates two Texas ranches, including the legendary 6666 or Four Sixes Ranch, a 2015 Environmental Stewardship Award Program regional winner, and Bosque Ranch. Sheridan recently launched Four Sixes® Ranch Brand Beef which retails beef sourced from 6666 and a network of ranches.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 16, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Friday's docket, but traders will pay attention to the latest weather forecasts, pause at 8 a.m. CST to see if USDA has an export announcement and will keep an eye on outside markets and any news from Ukraine. Livestock traders have to wait for USDA's cattle on-feed and quarterly hogs and pigs inventory reports, due out next Friday after the market close, just in front of the Christmas weekend. Weather While our large winter storm continues to wind down slowly, snow will fall in bands across northern areas of the country throughout the day. Winds are still elevated behind the system, mostly across the Plains, where blizzard conditions continue.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 15, 2022 |
Corn Growers Call on Biden to Set Quick, Firm Timeline with Mexico Leaders of state corn groups and the National Corn Growers Association called on President Biden to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. A letter sent to the President Wednesday encouraged Biden to raise the issue during upcoming trade talks and to file a dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement if Mexico doesn't act expeditiously to withdraw the decree. The leaders say, "Corn farmers are right now in the process of making planting decisions for next spring, and any additional uncertainty in the market affects their ability to appropriately respond to multiple market signals." Mexico's Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard plans to visit Washington this week to discuss the issue ahead of a planned meeting on trade between Biden, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early January. The state corn grower leaders urged Biden to raise the issue at the meeting. *********************************************************************************** CoBank Releases 2023 Year Ahead Report The U.S. economy still has considerable momentum and is not currently on the verge of recession., according to CoBank's 2023 Year Ahead report. However, economists have never been more pessimistic, and there are legitimate reasons for concern. Over the past half-century, inflation above five percent has never been tamed without incurring a recession. Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, says, "As financial conditions continue to tighten, we expect the U.S. economy will steadily soften through the first half of 2023." After two years defined by a strong economic rebound from the pandemic, the global economy will sputter in 2023. Despite the global pandemic and a steady barrage of disruptive challenges, the U.S. agricultural economy has fared quite well for the last three years. However, in 2023 producers and related industries will begin to show financial strains. A relentless series of adversities, including skyrocketing production costs, steeply higher interest rates and weakening demand, will increasingly pressure farm income and margins. *********************************************************************************** Counties with Continuous High Poverty Since 1960 Largely Rural Fresh data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows counties with continuous high poverty since 1960 are largely rural. In 1960, 78 percent of U.S. counties had poverty rates of 20 percent or more. Among them, 28 percent continued to have high poverty through 1980. After enactment of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, commonly known as the War on Poverty initiatives, many counties reported reduced poverty rates. Between 1980 and 2019, poverty rates were relatively stable, mainly fluctuating with cyclical changes in the macroeconomy. As of 2019, there were 304 counties—13 percent of the counties with high poverty in 1960—that consistently had poverty rates of 20 percent or more over the last 60 years. The majority—264 counties—are rural counties and are clustered in the Appalachian States; the Black Belt in the South; the Mississippi Delta; the Ozarks region of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas; the Southwest; and in counties with large American Indian and Alaska Native populations. *********************************************************************************** New Project Allows Cotton Farmers to participate in Carbon Markets A new collaboration offers southern cotton growers the chance to participate in carbon markets. The Ecosystem Services Market Consortium, US Cotton Trust Protocol, Manulife Investment Management, and Forum for the Future announced the effort Wednesday. The collaboration launched an Eco-Harvest pilot project in Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, and Tennessee. The project will work with cotton farmers to generate high-quality carbon and greenhouse gas credits on more than 2,300 acres. Cotton producers targeted for enrollment include those implementing conservation practices such as nutrient management, reduced tillage, and cover crops. Once producers are enrolled in ESMC’s Eco-Harvest program, ESMC quantifies credits and arranges third-party credit verification by a global certification body. Corporate buyers can purchase these verified credits to help meet their supply chain sustainability targets. Participating farmers, who may be new to private voluntary ecosystem markets linked to conservation practice adoption, will develop knowledge on and the ability to participate in markets. Learn more about the program at ecosystemservicesmarket.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Additional $10M to Support Community Food Projects USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture Wednesday announced an investment of nearly $10 million through the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program. The funding, made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act, bolsters USDA’s food and nutrition security efforts. Specifically, the funding promotes the self-reliance of communities in providing for the unique food needs of their community members. Community food projects support small to medium farmers, producers and processors in urban, rural, tribal and insular areas. The program provides communities a voice in food system decisions and supports local food markets to fully benefit the community, increase food and nutrition security and stimulate local economies. The program funds projects that meet the food needs of low-income individuals through food distribution, community outreach or improved food access. The funds will be invested in 29 Community Foods Projects from fiscal year 2022 Request for Applications submissions that were highly ranked but could not be funded at the time due to budget constraints. *********************************************************************************** NOAA Announces Funding for Fish Habitats Across U.S. NOAA Fisheries Wednesday announced $105 million in funding for 36 new fish passage projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The announcement includes significant funding to implement fish passage projects that meet tribal priorities and build tribal organizational capacity to support their role as stewards of tribal resources. Through the funding, NOAA prioritized projects that demonstrate a broad base of stakeholder and community support. Selected projects will span the full range of fish passage types, including dam removals, fish ladders, culvert improvements and in-stream fish passage improvements. NOAA says 15 of the projects, encompassing more than $26.3 million in funding, will be led by tribal applicants for fish passage. Fish passage is about improving access for fish to the habitats they need or reconnecting access to historic habitat blocked by humans. Migratory fish like salmon require access to high-quality rearing and spawning habitats, and unimpeded migratory corridors, to be successful and resilient.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 15, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly report of export sales is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a report of U.S. retail sales in November and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:15 a.m., the Federal Reserve's report on U.S. industrial production for November will be out, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. and the November soybean crush report from the National Oilseeds Processors later Thursday morning. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather forecasts and outside market behavior after Wednesday's half-percent rate hike from the Federal Reserve. Weather A slow-moving, strong storm system continues to produce widespread weather impacts to the country on Thursday. Heavy snow is falling in bursts across the Upper Midwest and Dakotas and a line of precipitation is moving through the Eastern Seaboard. Winds are still high on the backside of the system across the Northern Plains, producing blizzard conditions. Colder air is filling in behind the cold front through most of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 14, 2022 |
November Combine Harvesters, Four Wheel Drive Tractor Sales Grow Combine harvester sales remained positive in November, as did four-wheel drive tractor sales in both the U.S. and Canada. However, the latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total tractor sales fell in both countries. Total U.S. ag equipment unit sales fell overall though the largest units grew in sales. November’s total farm tractor sales fell 21 percent compared to 2021, with the under-40 horsepower segment seeing the biggest drop at 28 percent. U.S. self-propelled combine sales in November grew 8.3 percent to 314 units sold. Combine sales are one of two positive segments this year, up 15.7 percent year-to-date. The other growing segment in 2022 is the 100-plus horsepower segment, up 6.2 percent during November and 13.3 percent higher year-to-date. Combine harvesters and 4WD tractors were the only higher segments in Canada. “While total sales are down, the larger equipment continues to be strong,” says Curt Blades of AEM. *********************************************************************************** Lower Soybean Oil Demand Means Higher Ending Stocks The current 2022-2023 U.S. soybean balance sheet remains unchanged for now as export and crush volumes are in line with current forecasts. Although soybean meal is off to the projected start, the same can’t be said for soybean oil. Abysmal export volumes and commitments have resulted in a lower soybean oil export forecast for the current marketing year, dropping by 200 million pounds to 1.1 million pounds. Total commitments were down 90 percent on December 1. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its renewable fuel obligation targets for 2023-2025, which included a slight bump in the biomass-based diesel mandate during the first year. The EPA also approved and finalized a pathway for canola oil used in renewable diesel production. As a result, America’s soybean and canola oil balance sheets are changed to nearly offset the expected impacts on domestic use. Ultimately, the soybean oil ending stocks forecast got raised to 1.9 billion pounds. *********************************************************************************** Vegetable Prices Up 40 Percent Americans are paying up to 40 percent more for their vegetables than in 2021, and drought is a big reason for the price hike. A new report from Daily Mail says the increase is due, in large part, to states that grow fresh produce getting hit with water cuts because of droughts and storms destroying some crops as well. For example, Arizona produces 90 percent of the leafy greens in the U.S. and experienced its worst drought in 1,200 years. Water levels in the Colorado River are dramatically low, cutting down on the amount of water available to farmers. No relief is coming for Arizona’s farmers as officials will cut Arizona’s water intake from the Colorado River by 21 percent starting on January 1, 2023. The nation’s top agricultural state, California, is also getting hurt by severe drought. The biggest increase was a 38 percent jump in the price of fresh and dry vegetables. *********************************************************************************** Officials Want Support for Organic Poultry and Dairy Producers Senator Tammy Baldwin and Representatives Jared Huffman and Chellie Pingree led 25 colleagues in a bipartisan, bicameral letter asking Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack for immediate assistance for organic poultry and dairy producers. “We’re writing on behalf of the organic and poultry sectors to request emergency relief in response to skyrocketing feed costs that are impacting the future viability of this industry,” the letter says. “The situation is dire and requires your immediate response.” International trade challenges specific to the organic sector, persistent drought, and the lack of a stable domestic supply of certified organic feed combined to create a dire economic situation for organic livestock farmers for the past two years. They also point out that year-over-year price spikes in the cost of feedstuffs are now creating unsustainable circumstances that could lead to further farm closures, reduced competition, and ultimately limit consumer choice. If not addressed, the impact could be devastating. *********************************************************************************** CNH Industrial Opening Electrification R and D Center in Michigan CNH Industrial recently announced it has opened a new technical center in Detroit, Michigan. The center is designed to support the company’s growing innovation in electrification. It will also enhance CNH Industrial’s technology capabilities. “This new center underlines our commitment to growing our electric vehicle and subsystem profile and marks another milestone for us,” CNH says in a statement. “This allows us to become more customer-focused and build mission-fit electrified drivetrains and high voltage systems.” The new site in Detroit will complement and partner with the company’s existing electrification site in Italy. The sites will work together to advance the company’s position in alternative types of propulsion built on more than 15 years of R and D experience. “As an employer, we are investing in talented and motivated people who augment our in-house electrification capabilities,” says Kevin Barr, Chief Human Resource Officer. “Our talent will change agriculture in the years ahead.” *********************************************************************************** Weekly Export Inspection Numbers Drop USDA says inspections of soybeans and grain for overseas delivery all fell in the seven days ending on December 8. Soybean assessments came in at 1.84 million metric tons, down from over two million tons the prior week. That’s still better than the 1.75 million reported during the same week last year. Corn inspections also fell, dropping to 505,000 metric tons. That number was down from almost 825,000 the previous week. That corn number was also below the total from the same time last year of 930,000 metric tons. Wheat inspections totaled just 218,500 metric tons, down from more than 341,000 the week before and 269,000 during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 7.15 million metric tons of corn for export, 23.4 million metric tons of soybeans, and 11.1 million metric tons of wheat. The wheat marketing year began on June 1.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 14, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets At 9:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, the U.S. Energy Department will release its weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol productions. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will conclude its two-day meeting and is expected to increase the federal funds target by a half-percent. Traders will be watching for any comments from the Fed, the latest weather forecasts and for any sign of export sales. Weather In the midst of a strong storm system, continued heavy snow and blizzard conditions are occurring over the Northern Plains while a band of precipitation arcs through the Midwest and down into the Lower Mississippi Valley. Additional precipitation is forming over eastern Texas as another low pressure center develops on a strong cold front near the Mississippi River later today. That low will move northeast and through the Midwest with additional precipitation and risks for severe weather across the Gulf Coast.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 13, 2022 |
FACA Congratulates Additional Recipients of Climate-Smart Pilot Project Funding The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance Monday congratulated the second group of organizations selected to receive funding through USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the additional funding of $325 million for 71 projects under the second funding pool of the effort. USDA received more than 1,000 proposals between two funding pools requesting more than $20 billion in funds. The announcement brings the total investment from both funding pools to more than $3.1 billion for 141 tentatively selected projects. The projects will provide meaningful opportunities for small and underserved producers to participate in innovative climate programs, according to FACA. One of FACA’s key tenets is ensuring federal climate programs offer equitable opportunities for all farmers, ranchers and forest owners. FACA supports a voluntary, incentive-based approach to advance the deployment of climate-smart practices on working lands. FACA consists of organizations representing farmers, agribusinesses, manufacturers, the food and innovation sector, state governments, sportsmen, and environmental advocates. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Panama Agribusiness Trade Mission USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a regional trade mission to Panama from March 19-23, 2023. FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley says, "This is a perfect time to increase U.S. agricultural and food exports to Central America." USDA staff and regional experts will provide in-depth market briefings while in the country. The agency will also arrange targeted business meetings with potential customers from Panama, a bilateral Free Trade Agreement partner, and buyers from countries in the multilateral Central America and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement. The region offers strong capabilities in logistics, distribution, processing, cold chain, and more. Strong opportunities exist for exporters across many industries, including poultry, pork, dairy, beer and wine, snack foods and health foods. This will be the first USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission in 2023. The deadline to apply for the CAFTA-DR trade mission is Friday, December 30. Complete information is available at fas.usda.gov/. *********************************************************************************** FTC: Tractor Supply Company Must Sell Some Orscheln Stores The Federal Trade Commission recently finalized a consent order settling Tractor Supply Company’s acquisition of rival chain Orscheln (ORR-shlin) Farm and Home LLC. Following a public comment period, the FTC determined the acquisition would have harmed competition among farm stores in the Midwest and South. The consent order imposes a number of requirements, including that Tractor Supply divest some Orscheln stores, as well as Orscheln’s corporate offices and Missouri distribution center, to Bomgaars )BOM-gars), an Iowa-based farm store chain, and other stores to Buchheit (buck-eyet), another chain with farm stores in Missouri and Illinois. Tractor Supply Company announced it closed the Orscheln Farm and Home acquisition in October in a deal valued at $320 million. The consent agreement also requires that for a period of three years, the companies buying the divested farm stores must obtain prior approval from the FTC before selling any of the Orscheln stores they acquired. *********************************************************************************** Alltech ONE Conference Embarks on a World Tour in 2023 Alltech is transforming its annual Alltech ONE Conference in 2023 into a series of international events. The events will invite collaboration on the greatest challenges facing the agri-food industry. Instead of welcoming the world to Alltech's home in Lexington, Kentucky, as it has for the past 38 years, the Alltech ONE World Tour will bring the ideas and inspiration of the ONE Conference to communities throughout the world. Stops are planned in Brazil, Canada, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, the Middle East, the Philippines, Singapore, Spain, the United States and Vietnam. Additional stops are expected to be announced in 2023. Alltech President and CEO Dr. Mark Lyons says, "As our customers and partners continue to face many challenges and uncertainties, we determined that 2023 would be dedicated to meeting them in their market." Alltech will welcome the international conference back to Kentucky in 2024, and the company will release more details about the 2023 tour in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Portland to Replace Petroleum Diesel Sales with Biodiesel Portland, Oregon’s city council recently voted to phase out petroleum diesel sales and replace the product with biofuels. The policy focuses on diesel fuel, phasing in requirements for cleaner, renewable fuels, with the goal of achieving 99 percent renewable blend of all diesel fuel sales in Portland by 2030. The rulemaking process and the interim rule allows flexibility to adjust the policy based on real market conditions. While renewable fuel producers are confident that supply will be available in Oregon by 2026, the rollout timeline was extended to 2030 in response to concerns from local industry about supply and cost. City leaders say the efforts reduce dependence on nonrenewable fossil fuels by increasing the required percentage of renewable fuels blended with petroleum diesel. The standard only applies to retailers of diesel fuel located within the city of Portland. Replacing petroleum diesel at the pump is one of the 43 priority actions listed in the Portland Climate Emergency Workplan. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Fuel Prices: Diesel Declines Outpace Gas The nation's average gas price declined for the fifth consecutive week, down 14.4 cents from a week ago to $3.21 per gallon. The national average is down 56.5 cents from a month ago and 11.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has fell 14.9 cents in the last week and stands at $4.91 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “We remain on schedule to see the national average gas price fall below $3 by Christmas, with diesel set to fall 50 cents to $1 per gallon over the next six weeks or so.” The keystone XL Pipeline shutdown, De Haan adds, is not expected to impact fuel prices, for now. Under the weight of economic concerns, a possible surge in COVID cases as China works towards re-opening, and a changed psyche that OPEC+ is over-producing, oil prices fell last week to their lowest in nearly a year.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 13, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets Just as the Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting Tuesday, we will all get to see the U.S. Labor Department's report of November consumer prices at 7:30 a.m. CST. The report probably won't stop the Fed from raising rates by a half-percent on Wednesday, as is expected, but it could offer a clue for future decisions. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts, any export news and events in Ukraine. Weather A very strong storm system is moving through the Plains Tuesday morning. A line of showers and thunderstorms are creating some severe weather across Texas, which will likely get into Louisiana and adjacent areas this afternoon. Farther north, heavy snow is picking up from Colorado to South Dakota and will expand into Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota later Tuesday and Tuesday night. Winds are also strong across much of the middle of the country, creating blowing dust in dry areas of the Plains and a blizzard in the heavy snow across the north.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 12, 2022 |
USDA Releases December WASDE Report, Corn Exports Drop The December World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report says the 2022-2023 corn outlook is for lower exports and greater ending stocks. Exports dropped by 75 million bushels as export competition and high U.S. corn prices have slowed sales and shipments. Corn ending stocks grew by 75 million bushels. The season-average corn price dropped ten cents to $6.70 a bushel. Soybean supply and use projections are unchanged from November. Because of the recent EPA proposal on RVOs, soybean oil used for biofuels dropped by 200 million pounds. Oil exports are also at historic lows through November. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $14.00 per bushel. The December wheat supply and use outlook is unchanged from last month. Global wheat consumption is lowered by 1.6 million tons, mainly on lower feed and residual use by the EU and Ukraine. The season-average farm price is down by ten cents to $9.10 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Representatives Send Letter to USTR on Mexico’s Upcoming Corn Ban Twenty-four members of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai about Mexico. They want a resolution to a lingering trade dispute with Mexico over biotech corn imports. “We’ve been working closely with Congress on this issue, and it’s inspiring to see congressional champions faithfully taking up the mantle,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. “These members are now looking to Ambassador Tai to uphold the integrity of USMCA.” The letter is the latest development and response from U.S. officials as the ag community braces for a fallout if Mexico follows through on its promise to ban biotech corn shipments in early 2024. Ninety percent of U.S. corn is biotech corn. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack traveled to Mexico City and met with Mexican President Lopez Obrador, saying the U.S. would consider all options, including formal steps to enforce the terms of USMCA. *********************************************************************************** Beef Agreement Between U.S., Japan Officially Set for January 1, 2023 U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai and Japan’s Ambassador to the U.S. confirmed that amendments to the beef safeguard trigger level under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement will trigger on January 1, 2023. The letters confirmed both countries completed their procedures to put the protocol in place. “The new beef safeguard agreement will ensure that America’s farmers and ranchers can continue to meet Japan’s strong demand for high-quality U.S. beef,” says Tai. “I’m grateful to leaders and stakeholders in both countries for their dedication and ingenuity, which were important in reaching this outcome.” The new protocol amends the beef safeguard trigger level with a new three-trigger safeguard mechanism. The new amendment allows U.S. beef exporters to more reliably meet Japan’s growing demand for high-quality beef, provides more predictability, and reduces the probability that safeguard duties would get imposed on U.S. beef. All three criteria must be met to impose a tariff on U.S. beef. *********************************************************************************** FCA Issues Latest Report on the Ag Economy The Farm Credit Administration received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting U.S. agriculture and an update on the performance of the Farm Credit System. Inflation and rising interest rates continue to be major economic issues despite a recent slowdown in inflation. Consumer reaction to inflation, higher interest rates, and the labor market will be key drivers for the economy in 2023. Input costs will be important for farmers next year. Volatility in the price of natural gas will continue to be passed on through fertilizer prices. Supply chain difficulties persist with agricultural equipment, leading to high prices and long waits for new equipment and replacement parts. Through the first nine months of 2022, the Farm Credit System reported favorable financial results, including continued loan growth, increased earnings, and robust capital levels despite some decline in the System’s capital-to-asset ratio. Portfolios remained strong despite challenging operating conditions in certain sectors and regions. *********************************************************************************** ASA, Cotton Growers Present Oral Arguments in Dicamba Case The American Soybean Association and the Plains Cotton Growers, Incorporated, presented oral arguments before the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals last Thursday. It’s a part of the case of the American Soybean Association versus the EPA. The two groups urged the court to clarify jurisdictional rules under FIFRA and to require the Environmental Protection Agency to use the best available science when evaluating dicamba pesticide registrations and potential impacts to species protected by the Endangered Species Act. The groups filed the lawsuit against EPA in November 2020 on the five-year registration for the use of dicamba on dicamba-tolerant soybeans and cotton. Growers argued EPA’s flawed approach led the agency to impose arbitrary and overly burdensome buffers and application cutoff dates. The groups are asking the court to remand portions of the registration back to the EPA for reconsideration with the direction to use the science and data available to the agency. *********************************************************************************** NSP Announces Winners in its Sorghum Yield Contest National Sorghum Producers announced the winners of the 2022 Sorghum Yield Contest. This year’s Bin Buster Award winners are Brant and Amy Peterson of Winsome Farms in Kansas. They had the top yield in the contest at 245.8 bushels per acre. “National Sorghum Producers congratulates the winners of the 2022 Sorghum Yield Contest,” says NSP Board of Directors Chair Craig Meeker. “Despite a challenging growing season, there are impressive top-end yields scattered across the nation. We congratulate the winners and look forward to recognizing them during the 2023 Commodity Classic in Orlando, Florida.” Meeker says the results of this year’s contest show just how resilient sorghum can be. “The Bin Buster yield is six times the 2022 national average yield this year and one of the top ten yields on record in the contest.” While the drought had a significant impact on many sorghum growers, Meeker says they’re very proud of the results.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 12, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts, especially for South America, and still digesting the few changes from Friday's WASDE report. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CST and will likely show more soybean movement. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for November at 1 p.m. Weather A major winter storm system will move out of the Rockies and into the Plains on Monday. Winds will increase ahead of the system, bringing a lot of moisture northward for the system to work with. Widespread precipitation is expected in the middle of the country by late afternoon or evening, including heavy snow and some ice to the north and potential for severe storms along a cold front in the Central and Southern Plains. Temperatures are well above normal for a lot of the country but will be falling below normal as the system moves eastward through the rest of the week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 9, 2022 |
Vilsack to Announce Second Round of Climate-Smart Commodities Investments Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack travels to Alabama Monday to announce the second round of investments of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding. Projects from the second funding pool will emphasize the enrollment of small farming and ranching operations, including underserved producers, as well as measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification activities developed at minority-serving institutions. The investment in projects nationwide will expand markets for climate-smart commodities, leverage the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production and provide direct, meaningful benefits to production agriculture, according to USDA. In September, Vilsack announced USDA is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects under the first pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity. USDA first announced details of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities opportunity in February 2022. The 70 projects announced in September are from the first funding pool, which included proposals seeking funds ranging from $5 million to $100 million. *********************************************************************************** AFBF: Labor Challenges Increase Farm Economy Pressures Labor demands continue to tax the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers, with rising wage rates and record usage of the H-2A visa program. The American Farm Bureau Federation says meaningful reforms to the federal government's guest worker program must be a priority for Congress by the end of the year. AFBF and more than 350 other food and farm organizations that are part of the Ag Workforce Coalition sent a letter urging the Senate to pass legislation to address the nation's agricultural workforce challenges this year. The House of Representatives passed a farm labor reform bill, but the legislation needs improvements according to the coalition. The letter states, “The country cannot afford for the Senate to miss this opportunity to provide stability to both farmers and farmworkers.” Recent analysis from AFBF economists indicates that costs associated with farm labor will add to the ever-expanding list of factors straining the farm economy in 2023. *********************************************************************************** October Pork Exports Largest in 16 Months; Beef Exports Already Top $10 Billion October exports of U.S. pork were the largest in more than a year, and beef export volume also increased from a year ago, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. U.S. beef exports are on a record pace in 2022 and have already exceeded $10 billion. Pork exports reached 238,190 metric tons in October, up five percent from a year ago and the largest since June 2021. Pork export value increased 13 percent to $697.3 million, the highest since May 2021. For January through October, pork exports were 12 percent below last year at 2.18 million metric tons, valued at $6.26 billion. October beef exports totaled 125,466 metric tons, up eight percent from a year ago. Export value was $929.8 million, down three percent from the large total reported in October 2021. In the first ten months of 2022, beef export value increased 18 percent from last year's record pace to reach $10.05 billion. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2022 The prospect of permanent, nationwide availability of the E15 ethanol blend moves closer with new House legislation, according to the Renewable Fuels Association. Representatives Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat, and Adrian Smith, a Nebraska Republican, this week introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2022. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says the legislation will “finally remove a burdensome and nonsensical barrier to the broader deployment of cleaner, more affordable fuels.” Specifically, the legislation would harmonize fuel volatility regulations for ethanol-blended fuels across the country, allowing for the year-round sale of E15 in conventional gasoline markets. It also would supersede an effort by Midwest state governors to make regulatory changes that would assure the availability of E15 sales year-round in their states. In November, RFA and the American Petroleum Institute led a broad coalition that called on Congress to quickly adopt legislation to permanently resolve inconsistent fuel volatility regulations. *********************************************************************************** Caloric Sweetener Availability Dropped 17% Last Two Decades In 2021, the number of caloric sweeteners available for consumption in the United States was 17 percent less than in 1999, falling to 127.3 pounds per person from 153.6 pounds. According to the USDA Economic Research Service's Food Availability Data System, a reduction in the availability of total corn sweeteners contributed to the drop. The availability of corn sweeteners fell from a peak of 85.7 pounds per person in 1999 to 55.3 pounds in 2021. Shifting preferences among consumers and food manufacturers, high corn prices, and competition with refined cane and beet sugars and other caloric sweeteners contributed to the decline. The availability of refined cane and beet sugars fell from 102.3 pounds per person in 1972 to 60.0 pounds in 1986 and remained relatively flat for the next two and a half decades. Refined sugar availability began to rise in 2010, surpassing corn sweeteners in 2011 and reaching 69.7 pounds per person in 2021. *********************************************************************************** National No-Tillage Conference Returns to St. Louis For the ninth time in its 31-year history, the annual National No-Tillage Conference is returning to St. Louis. Hosted by No-Till Farmer, the event will be held January 10-13 at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis Arch Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. The content covers myriad topics in no-till, including equipment, cover crops, intercropping, economic analyses, soil analysis, fertilizing methods and more. Among the experts presenting are the highest-yielding farmers on the planet, including legendary no-tillers Russell Hedrick of North Carolina, David Hula of Virginia, Randy Dowdy of Georgia, Ray Archuleta of Missouri, and more. The program includes 14 general sessions, 45 roundtables and 23 classroom sessions. The National No-Tillage Conference provides practical tips, and information farmers need to run a more successful and profitable no-till operation. You can learn more about the event and register online at www.no-tillfarmer.com. Organizers say the event delivers insightful learning and unlimited networking with the best of the no-till community.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 9, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will report on producer prices at 7:30 a.m. CST Friday, an important report that will influence Fed policy in the days ahead. The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment for early December is set for 9 a.m. Traders of course, will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and will also stop to take in USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports, due out at 11 a.m. Weather A compact storm system is moving through the Midwest on Friday, producing a band of mixed precipitation and some moderate snow. The system will continue to track eastward through the region throughout the day, weakening as it moves into the Appalachians. At the same time, a lingering front across the South continues to see showers Friday morning that should continue as well. Friday night, a small disturbance will build on that front across the Southern Plains with more enhanced showers and thunderstorms going into the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 8, 2022 |
Top House Ag Republican Wants Enhanced Safety Net The top Republican on the House Ag Committee wants a stronger safety net for U.S. farmers. Pennsylvania Republican Glenn Thompson wants Congress to strengthen crop insurance and farm subsidy programs so producers don’t have to rely on stop-gap federal aid to survive challenges like trade wars, natural disasters, and COVID-19. “The need for a reliable farm safety net is paramount,” says Thompson. He will likely become the committee chair in January when Republicans gain a slim majority in the House. Agriculture Dot Com says almost 80 percent of federal agriculture funding has moved through bailout programs since 2018. Farm groups want higher reference prices, a factor in calculating subsidy payments, and more protection under the federal crop insurance program. Some industry experts say a status-quo farm bill is possible because of the small majorities in the House and Senate and a potential lack of new funding sources for the farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Bunge Expecting Big Jump in Renewable Diesel Production The U.S. is about to more than double its production capacity for renewable diesel. Reuters says that prediction comes from Greg Heckman, the CEO of Bunge, who says the country’s production capacity should hit five billion gallons by 2024. Heckman recently said his company hasn’t changed its own capacity plans after the recent RFS blending requirements didn’t increase as much as the industry expected. “Demand is up,” he says. “It’s sure not affecting us as we’ve been making plans for the long term.” Bunge formed a joint venture with Chevron in 2021 and announced plans to expand processing capacity by 2024 at Bunge’s soy-crushing facilities in Illinois and Louisiana. Those beans can be used to produce soy-based biodiesel. Other companies like JP Morgan say the EPA’s proposal on biofuel blending requirements calls for a “surprisingly low amount of growth,” and they worry about an oversupply of biodiesel without large enough mandates. *********************************************************************************** Consider Corn Challenge Winner Almost Ready for Commercialization ExoPolymer, Inc. won the Consider Corn Challenge 2 Contest and has taken its idea one step closer to commercialization. The new partnership with CP Kelco will help the company scale up the production of a new polysaccharide-based polymer. It’s domestically-produced by microbial fermentation using corn sugar as a feedstock. “We’re thrilled to see a previous Consider Corn Challenge winner, Derek Wells and ExoPolymer, continue to reach key milestones and get closer to commercializing their ideas,” says NCGA Director of Market Development Sarah McKay. “This is our hope for all winners and is the goal of the contest.” NCGA also says it wants to highlight some of the great research going on using corn as an industrial feedstock, which in turn increases corn demand. If all 15 winners of the Consider Corn Challenges reached full commercialization with products available in the marketplace, that could be an additional 3.4 billion bushels of new corn demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $981 Million to Expand Market Opportunities Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced his department is investing $981 million to help create new and better market opportunities and expand services for rural people, businesses, and entrepreneurs. The funds will be used to assist people in 47 states, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. “Rural people provide the everyday essentials our country depends on,” he says. “The partnerships we’re announcing today demonstrate USDA’s commitment to advocating for rural business owners and building brighter futures for everyone in rural America.” The funding will keep resources and wealth made by rural people right at home through affordable financing and technical assistance. It will also help rural Americans start businesses and allow small business owners to grow. It also opens doors to new economic opportunities for communities and people who’ve historically lacked access to resources and funding. USDA is making 242 awards through eight programs designed to create economic opportunities for rural people and businesses. *********************************************************************************** USDA Letter Emphasizing Western Drought and Conservation Priorities Senators Micheal Bennet of Colorado and Mitt Romney of Utah led a bipartisan group of 14 senators in sending a letter to USDA about the western drought and conservation priorities. They’re asking the agency to give parity to the urgent priorities of Western growers and communities through existing authorities, new funding, and collaboration across government. “The American West is in crisis,” the senators say in the letter. “Farm and ranch families hang in the balance as they grapple with a 22-year mega-drought.” They also say the acute shortage of water for Western growers threatens productive farmland across our states, which are both a pillar of rural economies and drivers of American food production. In the letter, the senators asked USDA to support Western farmers and ranchers to conserve water, improve water infrastructure and efficiency, protect lands at risk of erosion, and provide technical assistance for growers in regions hurt by drought. *********************************************************************************** There are Enough Christmas Trees to Meet the Demand The Christmas tree industry wants Americans to know there will be enough trees available to meet the demand for real Christmas trees. Marsha Gray, executive director of the Real Christmas Tree Board, says,” The industry met the demand in 2021 and will do so again this year. This is a year with few surprises.” Gray also says their annual survey found that 86 percent of real Christmas tree buyers had no problems finding a nearby place to get their trees in 2021. “Our grower survey tells us the demand for real trees is healthy,” Gray says. “Retailers see steady consumer interest in real Christmas trees and supply is pretty well matched to that interest.” Like many other sectors of U.S. agriculture, Christmas tree growers say their input costs have risen compared to last year. Consequently, many growers had a five to 15 percent increase in their wholesale prices compared to last year.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 8, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CST Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Trading may be cautious ahead of Friday's WASDE report and traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and any news of an export sale. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather A storm system moving through the Central and Southern Plains northeast through the Ohio Valley is already producing a wide band of moderate rainfall from Oklahoma to Kentucky Thursday morning. The storm will fill in farther north later in the day with some potential for freezing rain and a band of moderate snow going through Nebraska into southern Minnesota and Iowa. The snow will continue across Wisconsin and Michigan on Friday. Temperatures are rising across most areas regardless of precipitation moving through.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 7, 2022 |
Farmer Sentiment Unchanged Despite High Costs, Rising Interest Rates There wasn’t much movement in the November Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index read 102 for the month, unchanged from October. However, the Current Conditions Index dropped three points to 98, while the Future Expectations Index rose two points to a reading of 104. Even though producer sentiment was the same in November, producers are continuing to look at their bottom line and rising interest rates. Combine that with high input and energy costs, and there’s a lot of anxiety at the farm level. Forty-two percent of the survey respondents list high input costs as their top concern in the year ahead. The Farm Capital Investment Index dropped to a record low of 31 in November. Almost 80 percent of the respondents said it’s a “bad time” to make large investments in farm machinery. Just over one-fourth of the respondents have made operational changes due to rising energy prices. *********************************************************************************** Poll Shows Voters Support Immigration Reform A poll of voters commissioned by the International Dairy Foods Association shows strong support for reforming immigration policy as a way to help control food prices. Almost 90 percent of Democrat voters and 79 percent of Republican voters support the idea of immigration reform. When asked about the price of food, it was an almost unanimous 94 percent who said that rising food prices are a problem in America. It turns out that over 40 percent of the voters see a connection between immigration issues and rising food costs. Democrat and Republican voters aren’t aligned in connecting immigration issues with rising food costs. Over half of Republican voters say they’re connected while only one-third of Democrats do. Over half of the voters, including 55 percent of Democrats and 58 percent of Republicans, support Congress passing substantial immigration reform. Older voters, post-graduate voters, and urban voters are the most supportive of reform *********************************************************************************** Rabobank: Fertilizer Prices Lower in 2023 Fertilizer consumption suffered in 2022 due to market volatility and record-high prices. However, a new Rabobank report says a recovery in consumption is possible in some regions next year, with fertilizer prices lowering and commodity prices at historically high levels. “The affordability index’s moving average is trending lower as fertilizer prices are returning to pre-Ukraine War levels,” says Rabobank. “For the next three months, the index will continue to trend downward but remain above normal.” The key point to watch for is nitrogen products, as the natural gas crisis in Europe has the potential to make urea and ammonia more expensive and could keep the index at a high level. Rabobank says the nitrogen-based fertilizer market is the most volatile among all fertilizers due to its connection with oil and natural gas markets. As those commodities get more volatile, urea and ammonia prices are expected to go along with the tide. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections of Corn and Wheat Improve USDA says export inspections of corn and wheat rose while soybean assessments declined during the week ending on December 1. Corn inspections were just over 524,300 metric tons. That’s up from 311,700 tons the prior week. It’s still behind the 786,000 tons inspected during the same time last year. Wheat assessments reached 334,650 metric tons during the week, up from 284,500 tons during the previous week. It’s also ahead of the 285,000 tons inspected at the same time last year. Soybean inspections dropped to 1.72 million metric tons during the week, a significant drop from 2.23 million tons the prior week. Since the marketing year began, the agency has inspected 6.34 million metric tons of corn, 21.2 million metric tons of soybeans, and 10.9 million metric wheat tons. Last year at this time, the agency had inspected 9.42 million metric tons of corn, 23.8 million tons of soybeans, and 11.2 million tons of wheat. *********************************************************************************** Pork Checkoff Rate Adjustment on January 1 The Pork Checkoff rate will drop by five cents on January 1, 2023, to 35 cents per $100 of value. This change is the result of a resolution passed by voting delegates at the 2022 Pork Industry Forum. Pork Checkoff payments are collected for all pigs sold with a change of ownership. This includes the sale of weaned pigs, breeding age animals, and at the final market destination. Payments received by NPB for pigs sold on or after the first of the year will reflect the reduced rate. The rate change was recommended by the Pork Industry Vision Task Force, a group of 19 leaders from NPB, NPPC, and various state associations, to ensure the pork industry’s long-term success. Other actions from the task force included creating a joint producer-led working group of NPB and NPPC state leaders to conduct animal industry planning, prioritize issues, identify risks, and develop action plans. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Pleased with Cattle Contract Library Final Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the release of the final rule from the USDA to establish the Cattle Contract Library Pilot Program. This program was authorized following NCBA’s congressional engagement on the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022. “We are pleased that USDA listened to the feedback from industry stakeholders like NCBA while crafting the final rule for the Cattle Contract Library Pilot Program,” says NCBA senior director of government affairs Tanner Beymer. “We are hopeful that this pilot program will strike an appropriate balance between offering cattle producers additional insight into the market while also protecting their proprietary business information.” Beymer also says a Cattle Contract Library is just one of the many tools that NCBA has advocated for to help producers make informed business decisions and capture the most value possible for their cattle at sale time. NCBA provided USDA with feedback throughout the testing phase of the program.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 7, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, the U.S. Labor Department will have a report on third-quarter U.S. productivity, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, especially for Argentina where drought concerns lifted Tuesday's soybean prices. Traders will also watch for possible export sales announcements at 8 a.m. CST, after USDA reported 18.5 million bushels of U.S. soybeans sold Tuesday. Weather Remnants of a front across the Tennessee Valley will continue to produce scattered showers Wednesday. A disturbance across the north will provide scattered snow showers. Scattered showers will continue to develop across the Southern Plains and Mississippi Delta today and tonight. Temperatures will be below normal across the Northern Plains and northern Upper Midwest with near-normal temperatures across the Central Plains and southern Upper Midwest. Temperatures will remain well above normal across the South.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 6, 2022 |
Farm Capital Expenditures Increasing with Farm Income Rise In response to relatively stronger net farm incomes, U.S. farm sector capital expenditures have increased dramatically in the last three years, according to research by the University of Illinois. In 2019, farm sector capital expenditures were approximately $30.1 billion. The forecasted value for 2022 is $44.2 billion. Capital expenditures include tractors, trucks, autos, machinery, buildings, land improvements, and miscellaneous expenditures. Capital consumption represents the declining balance of capital stock or economic depreciation. The ratio of capital expenditures to capital consumption increased from 1.06 in 2019 to 1.70 in 2022. The data implies that farmers have used a portion of their strong net farm incomes in the last few years to replenish their capital stock. The changes in expenditures during the last four years have differed among expenditure categories. Specifically, increases were larger for tractors and machinery than for autos, trucks, buildings, and land improvements. *********************************************************************************** Food Price Index in November Virtually Unchanged The FAO Food Price Index averaged 135.7 points in November 2022, virtually unchanged from October. The index offered month-on-month decreases in the price indices for cereals, dairy and meat, nearly offsetting increases in vegetable oils and sugar. At this level, the index stood only marginally above—0.3 percent—its corresponding value in November 2021. The Cereal Price Index averaged 150.4 points in November, down 1.9 points from October, but still 6.3 percent above its value a year ago. The Oil Price Index averaged 154.7 points, up 3.4 points after declining for seven consecutive months. The Dairy Price Index averaged 137.5 points, down 1.7 points, but remained 9.2 percent above its value a year ago. The Meat Price Index averaged 117.1 points, down 1.1 points from October, but 4.1 percent above its value a year ago. Finally, the Sugar Price Index averaged 114.3 points in November, up 5.7 points from October. *********************************************************************************** Cover Crop Mixes account for 18 – 25% of Cover Crop Acreage USDA’s Economic Research Service finds cover crop mixes account for 18 to 25 percent of acres with cover crops. However, the use of single-species cover crops is more common. For corn fields in 2021, almost 75 percent of acres with cover crops used a grass or small grain cover crop, such as cereal rye, winter wheat, or oats. At 44 percent of acreage, cereal rye was almost twice as common as winter wheat as the cover crop on corn for grain fields. Rye and winter wheat were also the most common cover crops on soybean fields in 2018. Winter wheat was the most common cover crop used on cotton fields in 2019. Farmers add cover crops to a rotation to provide living, seasonal soil cover between the planting of two cash or forage crops. Including cover crops in a rotation can provide benefits such as improved soil health and water quality, weed suppression, and reduced soil erosion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches New Virtual Nutrition Center of Excellence The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the new Agricultural Science Center of Excellence for Nutrition and Diet for Better Health. The virtual center is part of President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot effort to end cancer as we know it. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The virtual center will connect existing resources, including people and programs, to leverage expertise and increase coordination and cooperation.” USDA is enhancing its research focus on precision nutrition science to better understand the needs of underserved communities. The research complements efforts to advance food and nutrition security – which means consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe and affordable foods essential to optimal health and well-being, according to USDA. The World Cancer Research Fund claims 30-50 percent of all cancer cases are preventable by following a healthy diet and lifestyle. As part of the announcement, USDA convened a panel of experts that discussed nutrition's role in improving overall health and reducing risks for diet-related chronic diseases. *********************************************************************************** EPA Proposes Elimination PFAS Reporting Exemption The Environmental Protection Agency Monday proposed a rule to end an exemption used to avoid disclosure of certain PFAS releases. The exemption allows facilities to avoid reporting information on PFAS when those chemicals are used in small or minor concentrations. Because PFAS are used at low concentrations in many products, the rule would ensure that covered industry sectors and federal facilities that make or use PFAS will no longer be able to rely on the exemption to avoid disclosing their PFAS releases and other waste management quantities for these chemicals. PFAS chemicals have been used to make various commercial products, including non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpets and furniture, water-resistant clothing, coated oil-resistant paper and cardboard food packaging, and some personal care products. Agriculture and PFAS chemicals can intersect through air, water, and soil, according to the Maine Department of Agriculture. One way that PFAS may enter soil is through the application of residuals such as biosolids, industrial sludges and ashes. *********************************************************************************** Gas, and Diesel Prices Fall Again The national average gas price fell 15.8 cents over the last week, down to $3.36 per gallon. The national average is down 43 cents from a month ago and 1.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 13.6 cents last week to $5.06 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “it remains very possible the national average could fall under $3 per gallon by Christmas.” De Haan expects diesel prices to fall under $5 per gallon this week, and soon reach its lowest level since March of this year. While the declines are welcomed, De Haan cautions that there may be some concerns coming as the price cap on Russian oil kicks in. Further, retaliation is possible, and while OPEC+ upheld production cuts from last month, they could always cut more production. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week by 2.3 percent, bouncing back the week after Thanksgiving.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 6, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Census Bureau's report on international trade data for October is set for 7:30 a.m. CST and will provide USDA with more specific trade data later Tuesday morning. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts, watch for a possible export sales announcement at 8 a.m. and any other news that emerges. Weather Remnants of a front across the Tennessee Valley will produce scattered showers throughout the day. A disturbance across the north will provide scattered snow showers. Scattered showers develop across the Southern Plains late tonight. Temperatures will be below normal across the Northern Plains with near-normal temperatures across the Central Plains and Upper Midwest. Temperatures will remain well above normal across the South.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 5, 2022 |
Senate Passes Bill to Avert Catastrophic Rail Strike The Senate passed a bill to avoid a potentially catastrophic U.S. railroad strike and sent the bill to President Biden’s desk for his signature. Crossroads Today says the vote came after mounting pressure on lawmakers to move swiftly. Without action, a strike could have taken place on December 9, which the president said would be catastrophic to the nation’s economy. Railroads transport 6,300 carloads of food and farm products every day. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 80 to 15. A separate vote on adding seven days of paid sick leave to the agreement didn’t pass. Biden was reluctant to override the vote against the contract by four unions but stressed the rail shutdown would devastate the economy. “I know that many in Congress were reluctant to bypass union ratification procedures, but the consequences would have been too great for working families across the country,” Biden said. *********************************************************************************** Positive Reaction to Senate Action Preventing Rail Shutdown Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack is grateful for Congress taking swift action to prevent a crippling national rail shutdown. “A rail strike would have had significant and long-lasting effects on the American economy,” Vilsack says. “U.S. farmers and ranchers can breathe a sigh of relief that the trains will stay on track to deliver food, inputs, raw materials, and other essential items.” The Fertilizer Institute also applauded Congress for taking action to prevent a stoppage. “The rail strike would have severely disrupted fertilizer deliveries and hurt domestic production,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Rail is critical to fertilizer movement year-round.” The American Feed Industry Association also appreciates the Congressional action to avoid a strike. “Slowing or stopping the transport of goods via rail threatens the livelihoods of those hardworking Americans well beyond our nation’s tracks,” says AFIA president and CEO Constance Cullman. America’s railways move one-quarter of all U.S. grain products. *********************************************************************************** December Farm Income Forecast Shows Higher Profits Net farm income for U.S. farmers is forecast at $160.5 billion in 2022, a $19.5 billion increase over 2021. The December Farm Sector Income and Finances report shows net cash farm income forecast at $187.9 billion in 2022, $29 billion higher than in 2021. Cash receipts from agricultural commodity sales will increase by $105 billion from 2021 to $541.5 billion this year. However, farm sector debt will increase by $27.8 billion in 2022 to almost $502 billion. Farm sector debt-to-asset levels will improve from 13.5 percent last year to 13 percent in 2022. Working capital, the amount of available cash to fund operating expenses after paying off debt due within 12 months, will rise 4.7 percent in nominal dollars but drop 1.4 percent when adjusted for inflation. Dairy farms will likely see the biggest jump in average net cash farm income, while specialty crops, cotton, and hogs the biggest decline. *********************************************************************************** Senator Wants AM Radio in Electric Vehicles Massachusetts Democratic Senator Edward Markey sent letters to 20 car manufacturers requesting they maintain AM radio in their vehicles, including the new EV models. In the letter, Markey says consumers still value AM radio and stressed that free broadcast radio is a critical and reliable channel for local, state, and federal government officials to communicate with the public. He also wants automakers to adopt technological solutions to address any electromagnetic interference that EVs cause with AM radio signals. “Despite innovations such as smartphones and social media, AM/FM broadcast radio remains the most dependable, cost-free, and accessible communication mechanism for public officials to communicate with the public in emergencies,” Markey says. “As a result, any phase-out of broadcast AM radio could pose a significant communication problem in an emergency.” Although investments in electric vehicles are critical in addressing the climate, automakers don’t need to sacrifice the benefit of radio in the process. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Mexico Banning White Corn a “Non-Starter” in Negotiations The National Corn Growers Association appreciates Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack’s efforts by traveling to Mexico City to discuss Mexico’s pending ban on biotech corn imports that goes into effect in 2024. Vilsack spoke with Mexican President Lopez Obrador about the importance of finding an acceptable resolution on the matter. President Obrador indicated last week that there might be room for compromise, suggesting the country would continue allowing imports of yellow corn used for livestock feed but would block white corn, imported mainly for human consumption. However, yellow corn is also food grade and nutritious in hundreds of products consumers enjoy. “Any decision to block biotech crops by Mexico would be illegal under the USMCA agreement,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. “Eliminating white corn will in no way resolve this matter.” Haag also says his group highly appreciates Secretary Vilsack for “going to the mat” on this issue for American farmers. *********************************************************************************** Soy Growers Disappointed in EPA RFS Proposal The Environmental Protection Agency released its draft “set” rule, which sets the annual biofuel blending targets for 2023-2025 under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Soy farmers were initially pleased with EPA’s 2022 volume target, which included the highest-ever number for total renewable fuels and specifically biomass-based diesel since the RFS was created. The new proposal goes in the other direction. “This rule slams the breaks on progress being made in biofuel investments and growth,” says American Soybean Association president Brad Doyle. “Instead of continuing to support available low-emission, plant-based fuel sources, EPA has changed course and seems to ignore major investments in and consumer demand for biomass-based diesel and other biofuels that exist right now.” The multi-year set rule is supposed to provide consistency and encourage investment in the biofuels industry. ASA says these insignificant volume increases for 2023-2025 could not only stifle growth but also jeopardize the existing biofuels industry.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 5, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be reading about the outcome of OPEC's Sunday meeting and checking out the latest weather forecasts, especially in South America where Argentina needs rain. A report of U.S. factory orders in October is due out at 9 a.m. CST, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. There will be no more Crop Progress reports until next spring. Weather An old front across the Tennessee Valley will produce scattered showers throughout the day. Another front moving down through the northern states will produce some showers as well. Temperatures will be mild for most of the country despite the fronts, except down across the South where temperatures will rise well above normal.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 2, 2022 |
EPA Releases 2023-2025 RFS Volumes The Environmental Protection Agency released the long-awaited 2023-2025 Renewable Fuel Standard blending volumes. The Renewable Fuels Association says the proposal creates a path for sustainable growth in the production and use of low-carbon renewable fuels. EPA proposes setting the 2023 RFS requirement at 20.82 billion gallons, of which 5.8 billion gallons will come from advanced biofuels and 15 billion from conventional renewable fuels. EPA also proposes an extra 250 million gallons in addition to the standards to address a 2017 D.C. Court decision. For 2024, the proposal is for 21.87 billion gallons, 6.62 billion gallons of advanced biofuels, and 15.25 billion of conventional. In 2025, EPA proposes requiring 22.68 billion gallons of total renewable fuels, including 7.43 billion gallons of advanced biofuels and 15.25 billion conventional. “The proposal solidifies a role for the RFS to reduce carbon emissions and enhance our energy security,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Alliance says EPA Proposal Underestimates Biomass-Based Diesel Clean Fuels Alliance America criticized the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2023 through 2025 for undercutting investments in biodiesel and renewable diesel capacity. The minor increase for biomass-based diesel volumes in 2023, 2024, and 2025 are below the industry’s existing production and ignores the clean fuels industry’s significant investments in new capacity. The group says those volumes provide no additional space for sustainable aviation fuel and short-circuit the nation’s carbon emission goals. “The volumes EPA proposed ignore the over three billion gallons currently in the market and fail to account for the planned growth of the sector,” says Kurt Kovarik, CFA vice president of federal affairs. “The soybean and canola industries invested over $4 billion to bring additional feedstock capacity online in the future.” An additional 2.4 billion gallons of renewable diesel capacity is coming online by 2024, and Kovarik says EPA’s numbers undercut the investments. *********************************************************************************** USDA Lowers Farm Export Forecast American farm exports will drop to $190 billion during the current fiscal year. USDA says that’s four percent lower than the record set in the recently-ended 2022 fiscal year. The lower forecast is caused by slowing economies around the world. Soybeans, corn, and cotton will see the largest declines, dropping a combined seven percent. “The global economic outlook in 2023 is uncertain due to factors like inflation and trade disruptions caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” the agency says in its Quarterly Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade. Global economic growth was forecast at 2.7 percent, down from 3.2 percent this year. Central banks around the world are tightening their money supplies to combat inflation, with China a notable exception. Exports hit a record $196.4 billion during the fiscal year that ended in September. One-fifth of American agricultural production gets exported, so foreign markets are a major factor in farm revenue. *********************************************************************************** Corn Harvest Quality Report Shows Higher Test Weight, Protein Content The U.S. Grains Council’s 2022-2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report has good things to say about this year’s corn crop. The report says the corn crop entering the marketing channel has a higher average test weight, higher protein concentration, and lower total damage relative to each quality factor’s average over the previous five crops. Cooler spring temps and hot, dry weather contributed to reduced yields for this year’s crop but accelerated maturation. Clear weather at harvest helped to maintain crop quality. “This report is intended to help buyers make well-informed decisions by providing reliable and timely information about the quality of the current U.S. crop,” says Kurt Shultz, USGC director of global strategies. “This year’s supply will help the U.S. remain the world’s leading corn exporter and will account for an estimated 30 percent of global corn exports during the upcoming marketing year.” The 2022 U.S. corn crop came in at 13.93 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Applauds Protect Farmers from the SEC ACT in Senate The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association supports the Senate version of the Protect Farmers from the SEC Act, a companion bill to legislation introduced into the House of Representatives by Oklahoma Republican Frank Lucas. “The Securities and Exchange Commissions’ overly broad rulemaking has the potential to increase burdens on cattle producers by requiring data that’s impossible to provide,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “The NCBA is proud to support the act because it ensures that federal regulators don’t overstep their jurisdiction and protects cattle producers from government red tape.” The act excludes agriculture from the reporting Scope 3, or supply chain, greenhouse gas emissions under the SEC’s proposed climate disclosure rule. While the rule is aimed at large publicly-traded companies, ag operations could be subjected to additional reporting as part of the supply chain for public restaurants and retailers. “We thank Senators Boozman and Braun for focusing on the issue,” Hart says. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Revenue Protection for Oat and Rye Producers The country’s oat and rye producers can now benefit from revenue protection, a new crop insurance option available through the USDA. After listening to growers, the Risk Management Agency expanded the Small Grains Crop Provisions to offer revenue protection for 2023 oat and rye crops. “This enhanced coverage for oats and rye is a direct result of RMA listening to and prioritizing the feedback we get from farmers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “We are always working to offer risk management options and opportunities that are in the producers’ best interests.” Before the program change, RMA established prices for oats and rye up to 11 months before harvest. In 2021 and 2022, the oat prices increased about byy 30 percent, leaving producers with insurance coverage below the value of their crops. Now, the insurance coverage price will rise to follow any higher oat prices and provide coverage reflecting the crops’ true value.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 2, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Friday will feature early government releases of both the non-farm payrolls report and the unemployment rate. We will also be watching for any additional news on the railroad strike situation, along with any new export sales announcement. Weather A storm system is moving out of the Rockies on Friday. The system is somewhat strong, though precipitation is rather light with it. Some decent snow will fall across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, but the cold front that rushes through the middle of the country Friday will generally be dry. Winds on the other hand will not be quiet with strong gusts in the Plains and into the Midwest both ahead of and behind the front. With some better moisture well ahead of the front, isolated showers will pop up in the Delta region and adjoining areas. Temperatures well-above normal ahead of the front will come crashing down again in our rollercoaster ride of active weather.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 1, 2022 |
House Acts to Prevent Rail Strike The House of Representatives Wednesday took action to avert a pending rail strike. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, on the house floor Wednesday, stated, "A shutdown would grind our economy to a halt, and every family would feel the strain,” while adding, “Small businesses wouldn't be able to get their products to market. Many of them, as I say, farmers.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the action is “a positive step toward keeping that chain moving,” referring to the agricultural supply chain’s reliance on rail access. The resolution will now go to the Senate for consideration. It will need 60 votes to pass the Senate before arriving at President Biden’s desk for his signature. Pelosi pledged two actions by the House, with the first being the resolution to prevent a rail strike. The second action by the House is a separate measure that would give railway employees seven days of paid sick leave per year. *********************************************************************************** McDonald’s Files Lawsuit Alleging Pork Price Fixing McDonald’s this week filed a lawsuit against pork packing companies alleging price fixing. The lawsuit names Agri Stats, Clements Food Group, Hormel Foods, JBS USA, Seaboard Foods, Smithfield Foods, Triumph Foods and Tyson foods as defendants in the case. Legal documents show McDonald’s claims the defendants and their coconspirators collectively control over 80 percent of the wholesale pork market. The lawsuit alleges the defendants entered into a conspiracy from around 2008 or early 2009 through the present to fix, raise, maintain, and stabilize the price of pork. McDonald's claims defendants implemented their conspiracy by agreeing with their competitors to restrict output and limit production. The lawsuit says that the data compiled by Agri Stats is a classic enforcement and implementation mechanism of a price-fixing scheme. Because of the alleged price fixing, McDonald's claims it paid inflated prices for pork during the time frame outlined in the lawsuit, adding, Thus, plaintiff suffered injury and damages due to defendants’ anticompetitive conduct." *********************************************************************************** Specialty Crops Growth Shows Need for Expanded Risk Management Tools Specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables and nuts, make up almost one-third of total crop sales in the United States, but many specialty crop acres remain uninsured. American Farm Bureau Federation economists recently examined specialty crop coverage. The Market Intel report found that more than 80 percent of the acreage of hazelnuts, kiwifruit, strawberries and lettuce remain uncovered through the Federal Crop Insurance Program or Noninsured Crop Disaster Program. Meanwhile, more than 50 percent of walnut, pecan, peach, squash, sweet corn, watermelon, pumpkin, cucumber and pepper acreage lacks coverage. Since 2000, risk management participation has increased in most specialty crop categories. AFBF has made expanding insured commodities to include specialty crops one of its priorities for the 2023 farm bill. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, “The 2023 farm bill should recognize those differences and offer programs that provide the same protections regardless of what a farmer chooses to grow.” *********************************************************************************** NCGA Applauds New Legislation Resolving E15 Uncertainty A group of Midwest lawmakers this week introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. The legislation would ensure permanent, full-market access to E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88. The National Corn Growers Association applauded the legislation. NCGA President Tom Haag says the legislation "will ensure drivers across the country continue to have year-round access to safe, low-cost, low-emission E15." Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the bill with 13 bipartisan cosponsors. Despite EPA approving E15 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles and a 2019 update to regulations, a 2021 court decision would have ended year-round market access to E15 last summer without the Biden administration using emergency authority to keep E15 in the market. Ensuring continued E15 sales year-round keeps a lower-emission fuel choice in the marketplace that costs less, according to NCGA. E15 cuts evaporative, carbon and tailpipe emissions compared to standard 10 percent ethanol blended fuels. *********************************************************************************** CFTC Ag Committee Announces December Meeting Agenda The Commodity Futures Trading Commission's Agricultural Advisory Committee Wednesday released the agenda for its public meeting. The meeting is scheduled for December 7 at the CFTC headquarters in Washington, D.C. At the meeting, the committee will focus on topics related to the agricultural economy, including geopolitical and sustainability issues and recent developments in the agricultural derivatives markets. The committee will also address procedural matters, including topics of discussion on a forward-looking basis. Chairman Rostin Behnam says, “The Commission remains committed to maintaining the integrity of our agricultural derivatives markets.” Agenda items include the state of the agricultural economy, price limits in agricultural markets, and shipping, freight and storage impacts on grain. The CFTC Agricultural Advisory Committee advises the CFTC on issues involving the trading of agricultural commodity futures and options. Members of the committee represent agribusinesses, farmer organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation and agricultural banking groups. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Live Holiday Plant Imports Reach $80 Million In 2022 Christmas trees and poinsettias are iconic symbols of the holiday season. While the vast majority are grown in the United States for domestic use, a small share of both plants are imported from Canada, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Trade is highly seasonal, with 99 percent of Christmas trees and 95 percent of poinsettias shipping between November and December. From 2000–15, live Christmas tree imports averaged around two million trees per year at an inflation-adjusted annual value of $36.1 million. However, by 2022, live tree imports reached nearly 2.8 million trees at a value of $68 million. Import values of live trees had previously spiked in 2020 because of COVID-19 supply chain issues, and prices have remained relatively high since. In the early 2000s, the United States imported as many as 5.9 million live Poinsettias per year before that number dipped to 1.2 million in 2011. In 2022, live poinsettia imports totaled 2.2 million plants worth $11.5 million.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 1, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets There are a host of government reports scheduled for release Thursday, including Initial Jobless Claims, Core Price Index, manufacturing index and real consumer spending. We will also be watching for the Senate vote on the railroad agreement, new export sales, and any news from China about COVID developments. Weather A system out in the West will continue to push through the region on Thursday with widespread precipitation. Winds and temperatures out in the Plains will increase as a result of the approaching storm but little precipitation is expected east of the Rockies until tonight with snow developing for the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 30, 2022 |
Vilsack Talks Biotech Corn in Mexico Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack met with Mexican President Andrés Manuel (man-WELL) López Obrador earlier this week. The leaders discussed a looming decree by the Mexican president that would ban imports of biotech corn into the country. In a statement following the meeting, Vilsack commented, "We must find a way forward soon and I emphasized in no uncertain terms that – absent an acceptable resolution of the issue – the U.S. Government would be forced to consider all options.” The options available include taking formal steps to enforce legal rights under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. National Corn Growers Association CEO Jon Doggett replied, “Today’s meeting shows that the Biden administration is listening to NCGA and American corn grower leaders and that Secretary Vilsack is willing to go to the mat for America’s farmers.” The Mexican President has promised to enact a decree that would end imports of corn grown using biotech and certain herbicides by 2024. *********************************************************************************** Industry Welcomes Biden Call to Congress on Potential Rail Strike Agriculture groups welcome President Biden's call on Congress to avert a potential rail worker strike. Corey Rosenbusch of The Fertilizer Institute praised the action by Biden, adding, “Congress must act now to ensure that fertilizers and other critical materials and goods that U.S. consumers rely on every day get to where they are needed.” The Fertilizer Institute has been heavily engaged in efforts to avert a nationwide rail network shutdown and will continue to do so until the matter is resolved. The call from Biden followed a meeting with cabinet members on the issue. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack adds, “in this case – where the economic impact of a shutdown would hurt American agriculture and millions of other working people and families –Congress must use its powers to adopt this deal.” Vilsack joined President Biden in calling on Congress to quickly pass legislation adopting the Tentative Agreement between railroad workers and operators. *********************************************************************************** Removal of Trade Barriers Could Increase China’s Ag Imports China imported more than $205 billion of agricultural products in 2021, including more than $37 billion from the United States. However, USDA Economic Research Service points out that trade barriers deterred China's imports from reaching even higher levels. China's import barriers create what are called "price wedges," in which domestic prices for agricultural commodities, including beef, corn, pork, and wheat, are higher than the world price. ERS recently found that removing price wedges would lead to increased agricultural imports for the four commodities over the next five to ten years. For corn and wheat, removing price wedges was estimated to increase China’s imports by 91 and 249 percent, respectively. Both of these commodities are subject to a tariff-rate quota which could constrain additional imports. Overall, the benefits of removing these trade barriers would be widespread, increasing sales for producers in the United States and other exporting countries and yielding lower food prices for China’s consumers. *********************************************************************************** Ag Organizations Call for McKalip and Taylor Nominations Votes Agriculture groups through Farmers for Free Trade call on the Senate to confirm two key agricultural trade officials in the Biden administration. The coalition sent a letter to Senate leaders Tuesday calling for the confirmation of Doug McKalip as Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative's Office, and Alexis Taylor as USDA Undersecretary of Agriculture for Trade. The coalition urged the Senate to confirm the duo during the current lame-duck session. "Time is of the essence to confirm these nominees." the letter points out, adding, "American agriculture needs experienced leaders representing us in international negotiations." The letter also highlights the important role that exports and U.S. agriculture play on the entire economy, as 20 percent of American farm revenue comes from exports, and America's farmers, ranchers, food processors, and manufacturers rely on complex and highly integrated supply chains that stretch across international borders. The food and agriculture products we export support over 1,000,000 U.S. jobs. *********************************************************************************** Food System Investment Needed to Equip Farmers for Climate Change A new report from the Farm Journal Foundation finds that increased U.S. investments in agricultural development and innovation are needed to make global food systems more resilient. While climate change impacts agriculture worldwide, its effects are "substantially more severe" in warm regions, including Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The report says that as much as 80 percent of the world's poor people, who predominantly work in agriculture, live in areas increasingly affected by climate change. The new report follows the United Nations' COP27 conference earlier this month, where leaders discussed the impact of climate change on the global food system and solutions to make agriculture more resilient. The report says investing in agricultural sustainability in developing countries is in the U.S. national interest, as it would prevent future food crises, reduce the need for emergency food aid, support stability in developing countries, and potentially reduce mass migration and civil unrest. *********************************************************************************** Noble Research Institute Releases Ranch Safety Guide Agriculture is the seventh-most-hazardous industry in the United States, but ranch operators can take steps to make their working facilities and equipment safer for their staff and families. Recently Noble Research Institute and the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef created and published a new guide to help improve ranch safety. The guide titled Ranch Employee Safety: Working Cattle and Related Facilities and Equipment, takes ranchers through four stages of improved safety. The guide proposes stages of safety on the ranch, including identifying hazards and preventing worker injuries and illnesses. The third stage is preparation of ranch employees, followed by the final stage, monitoring the hazards and risks and the safety policies and procedures implemented. Additionally, the guide provides 30 pages of resources and tools ready to use on any operation. Ranch Employee Safety: Working Cattle and Related Facilities and Equipment is available for download at no cost www.noble.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 30, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Wednesday the ADP Employment report along with Real GDP numbers will be issued by the government. We will also be watching for any news of China regarding COVID, any new export sales and news on the potential railroad strike. Weather A cold front continues to sweep through the eastern portions of the country on Wednesday with bands of moderate rainfall. Some storms across the far southeast could be stronger today as well. Breezy winds are following behind the system and could make for some blowing snow in the areas that received it Tuesday. Also behind the front are a burst of some colder temperatures. They will not last long however, as warmth returns Thursday and Friday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 29, 2022 |
Farm Share of U.S. Food Dollar Reached Historic Low in 2021 U.S. farm establishments received 14.5 cents per dollar spent on domestically produced food in 2021—a decrease of 1.0 cent from a revised 15.5 cents in 2020. The figure is the lowest recorded farm share value in nearly three decades, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. The remaining portion of the food dollar—known as the marketing share—covers the costs of getting domestically produced food from farms to points of purchase, including costs related to packaging, transporting, processing, and selling to consumers. One contributor to the 2021 decline in farm share was a shift to food-away-from-home spending. Farm establishments typically receive a smaller share of food-away-from-home spending because of the large amount of value added by outlets such as restaurants. As a result, the farm share generally decreases when food-away-from-home spending increases faster year-over-year than food-at-home spending. Food-away-from-home spending increased markedly in 2021 after a sharp decrease early in the COVID-19 pandemic. *********************************************************************************** USDA Kicks off Spain Trade Mission Delegation The Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service Associate Administrator Clay Hamilton arrived Monday in Madrid to launch a USDA agribusiness trade mission to Spain. More than 70 participants, representing various sectors of U.S. food and agriculture, including businesses, trade associations, and state government, join this trade mission to explore export opportunities for U.S. agricultural products to Spain. Hamilton says, “Spanish consumers and food processors are increasingly interested in sustainably produced goods, which gives U.S. producers a marketing edge over other export suppliers.” Hamilton notes that USDA sees the demand for consumer-ready products steadily increasing, presenting an opportunity for U.S. exports. Trade mission participants will have an opportunity to connect with potential customers and learn the mechanics of exporting to Spain. In addition, importers from the neighboring Portugal have also been invited to participate, allowing the U.S. exporters to learn about opportunities in that country as well. *********************************************************************************** USDA Breaks Ground on New Soil Research Buildings in Auburn, Alabama The Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service broke ground Monday on a new research facility housing the National Soil Dynamics Laboratory. The facility at Auburn University's College of Agriculture will include two new buildings at Auburn University's Research Park. Dr. Simon Liu, ARS acting administrator, says, "With these new buildings and the continuing cooperation with our research partners at Auburn University, we believe that the National Soil Dynamics Laboratory will continue to have a substantial positive impact on agriculture all over the world." The National Soil Dynamics Laboratory and Auburn University scientists are considered national leaders in developing economical and environmentally sound crop management systems for production agriculture in the Southeast. The partners are leading the way in the new national focus on soil and water quality to maintain the productivity of our nation's farms, according to Dr. Allen Torbert, supervisory research soil scientist and research leader for the National Soil Dynamics Laboratory. *********************************************************************************** New Board Members Announced for FFA Foundation Sponsors’ Board The National FFA Foundation announced its new chair for the Sponsors’ Board during the 95th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis this fall. David Hollinrake, global head of strategy and portfolio management for Syngenta, was named chair for the upcoming year. Hollinrake grew up on a farm in Illinois and has been involved with agriculture his entire life. Mary Snapp, vice president of strategic initiatives for Microsoft, was named chair-elect. Hollinrake says, "I am honored to play a role in helping create the next generation of leaders. The National FFA Sponsors' Board comprises top corporate executives who wish to support agricultural education and the National FFA Organization. During their service, sponsors' board members are integral to advising National FFA on opportunities to improve programs and secure funding for the continued development of the next generation of leaders who will change the world. Seven other new board members were announced. The members will serve on the board for three years. *********************************************************************************** Case IH, Farm Journal to Host Christmas Comeback in Kentucky Case IH and Farm Journal will celebrate a "Christmas Comeback" for residents of Mayfield, Kentucky. The event comes as the one-year anniversary of a tornado that damaged the town and rural areas on December 10, 2021. Case IH and Farm Journal want the people of Mayfield to know that they haven't been forgotten. Residents and others impacted by the storm are invited to a "Christmas Comeback" celebration with friends, family and the ag community. The community will enjoy singing Christmas carols with American Idol finalist Alex Miller and other holiday activities. Traci Rodemeyer of Case IH says, "With great partners, generous volunteers and lots of teamwork, our goal is to bring light and smiles this holiday season." The "Christmas Comeback" is a holiday celebration, but also a celebration of the resilience and commitment of the people of Mayfield who continue to rebuild their community. The event is set for Friday, December 2, 2022, at H&R AgriPower in Mayfield from 5:00-7:30 p.m. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Fall Over Thanksgiving For the third straight week, the nation’s average gas price declined, falling 12.4 cents from a week ago to $3.52 per gallon. The national average is down 22.7 cents from a month ago and 14.1 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel fell 7.9 cents in the last week and stands at $5.20 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “All the metrics look very positive for motorists as this week is likely to continue seeing falling gasoline prices, with many areas falling to the lowest level since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February.” The national average could fall under $3 per gallon by Christmas, according to De Haan. The bears have run rampant through oil markets, with prices continuing to come under heavy selling pressure as China sees protests for its zero-Covid policies, shutdowns of major cities, and U.S. demand facing seasonal pressure. U.S. retail gasoline demand fell last five percent as motorists pre-filled up and celebrated Thanksgiving.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 29, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer confidence for November is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket, due out at 9 a.m. CDT. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, check for a possible export sales announcement at 8 a.m. and watch for any other market-impacting news, including rumors about Sunday's OPEC meeting. December grain futures reach first notice day on Wednesday. Weather A cold front moving across the middle of the country early Tuesday is forming a low-pressure center along it, increasing the intensity of the system as it moves east throughout the day. Snow is forming behind the front and could be moderate to locally heavy from Nebraska up into Wisconsin. Severe storms will occur across the Delta and Southeast later today, with potential for long-duration tornadoes, widespread damaging winds, and large hail. A burst of colder air is flowing in behind the front as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 28, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will look over the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Monday morning's weekly report of export inspections is expected to show another week of active soybean movement at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the final Crop Progress report of the year at 3 p.m. Weather A briefly quiet weather day is expected Monday. A cold front is moving through the Northern Plains, but precipitation with the front is mostly located in the Canadian Prairies. The front will get more active tonight as snow develops in a band across southeast Wyoming, northeast Colorado, and Nebraska where moderate accumulations are expected. The rest of the country is rather dry and mild.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 25, 2022 |
Farmer Share of Thanksgiving Food Dollar Stays Low in 2022 National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the farmers’ share of the Thanksgiving food dollar continues to stay low. “Corporate profits and consumer food costs continue to go up and up, but the farmers’ share of the food dollar is still low,” Larew says. “Thanksgiving is a time of family and community, but thanks to price gouging by corporate monopolies in the food system, the holiday meal is getting increasingly difficult to afford.” The NFU says the retail price of turkey averages $1.99 a pound, and the farmers’ share is six cents per pound. Two pounds of boneless ham retails for $12.98, with the farmers’ share at one dollar. Even though consumers are paying more for food this year, almost none of that increase is getting passed on to America’s family farmers and ranchers. Mega-consolidation in the food sector has made supply chains uncompetitive and resulted in farmers being underpaid. *********************************************************************************** Groups Express Support for Year-Round E15 A broad coalition of energy and agriculture organizations wrote a letter to Congress asking them to adopt legislation that would resolve inconsistent fuel volatility regulations. Specifically, the groups expressed support for legislation that would result in equal regulatory treatment for all gasoline blends containing ten percent ethanol or more, including gasoline with a 15 percent blend of ethanol. Such legislation would permanently remove the regulatory barrier that has historically made it extremely difficult for retailers to offer E15 in the summer. “Our groups have come together for the first time in history to support legislation that will permanently resolve the issue,” the letter says. “By ensuring uniformity across the nation’s fuel supply chain, that will provide more flexibility and result in more consistent outcomes than a state-by-state regulatory landscape.” Without the fix, the groups see gasoline marketplace uncertainty and political disputes over E15 that will continue to resurface every summer. *********************************************************************************** Farm Loan Interest Rates Rise Sharply Farm loan interest rates increased sharply during the third quarter. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City says despite the high borrowing costs, farm real estate values continued higher. However, the rate of increase slowed in the quarter. Following consistently higher increases earlier in 2022, the value of farmland in most Districts grew at a slightly slower pace during the third quarter. Farm income and credit conditions also remained strong, but the improvement was more limited. With higher production expenses, broad inflation, and higher financing cost, growth in household spending by farm borrowers began to outpace capital spending more noticeably. Strong farm finances continued to support a generally positive outlook for agricultural credit conditions through the rest of this year. However, some pressures have continued to intensify. Despite more measured improvements in recent quarters, farm finances remained solid following especially-strong incomes across the sector during the past two years. *********************************************************************************** Japanese Government Approves Amended Beef Safeguard Mechanism The Upper House of Japan’s government, called the Diet, approved the Protocol Amending the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement regarding the beef safeguard mechanism. The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office says that completes the Diet’s process of finalizing the agreement. The new three-trigger safeguard mechanism will allow U.S. exporters to meet Japan’s growing demand for high-quality beef and reduce the probability that Japan will impose higher tariffs in the future. “The protocol will ensure our farmers and ranchers continue to have access to one of the world’s most dynamic markets,” says USTR Katherine Tai. “We are excited that Japanese consumers can enjoy high-quality U.S. beef that’s a staple of our agricultural industry.” In 2021, the U.S. was the top beef exporting country in the world, with global sales of beef products valued at more than $10 billion. U.S. beef exports to Japan totaled almost $2.4 billion in 2021, making Japan the second-largest export market. *********************************************************************************** USDA Wants Nomination for the Advisory Committee on Ag Statistics The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service is seeking nominations for the Advisory Committee on Agricultural Statistics. Members of this committee advise the Ag Secretary on the scope, timing, and content of periodic agricultural censuses, surveys of agriculture, and other related industries. The committee also makes recommendations on the content of agriculture reports and represents the views and data needs of suppliers and users of ag statistics. “The Advisory Committee has long played an important role within our agency,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “The valuable insights and recommendations from the committee have helped shape NASS programs and ensure we continue to meet the needs of data and statistics.” The committee, appointed by the Ag Secretary, consists of 22 members representing multiple disciplines and interests, including ag producers, national farm organizations, ag economists, and many others. Nominations are due by December 7, and for more details, go to the NASS Advisory Committee website. *********************************************************************************** First Census of Agriculture to Collect Information on Hemp Farming For the first time, the USDA will collect data on farmers growing hemp and using precision technology in the 2022 Census of Agriculture. The agency began regulating hemp production in 2021, and this will be the first census to publish data on those producers, who grow the crop for fabric, food products, and CBD. The agency says it will also identify farmers who use “precision agriculture” data-collection technology that guides planting decisions. About 70 percent of the nation’s 2.2 million farms responded to the 2017 census. Response rates in recent years have trended downward. Farmers are required by law to fill out the survey, but NASS has no enforcement mechanism. Donald Buysse, (BYSE-see) chief of the census planning branch with NASS, says, “The incentive is the idea you’re providing data as a useful tool for your community.” USDA will collect responses until February 6 and publish the data in February 2024.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 25, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Trading in U.S. grain and livestock futures resumes at 8:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. The session will close early at 12:05 p.m. for most contracts and at 12:15 p.m. for Minneapolis wheat. After USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT, no other significant reports are on the docket, but traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and outside news, especially from Ukraine. Weather An upper-level system that has become cutoff over Texas will produce widespread and building showers and thunderstorms on Friday while showers move out of eastern areas. Some heavier snow will be possible in eastern New Mexico and west Texas as well. The rest of the country will be seasonally mild.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 23, 2022 |
USDA Invites Producers to Respond Online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture The USDA mailed survey codes to all known U.S. ag producers with the invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at agcounts.usda.gov. The ag census is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. By completing the survey, producers across the nation can tell their stories and help generate impactful policies to better serve them and future ag producers. Farmers of all sizes, urban and rural, that produced and sold $1,000 or more of products, or normally would have in 2022, are included in the Census. The Census will get mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in December. Producers only have to respond once, either online or by mail. Responses are due on February 6, 2023. “The Census of Agriculture is a powerful voice for American agriculture,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The information is an important influence on future ag policy.” *********************************************************************************** Comment Period Extended on Packers and Stockyards Act Rulemaking The USDA says it’s extending the comment period on the proposed rule titled “Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act” by 45 days. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the extension while urging USDA to proceed in a deliberate manner. “While we appreciate the additional time to submit thorough comments, overall, USDA should slow down on this rulemaking effort,” says NCBA senior director of government affairs Tanner Beymer. “It’s a significant undertaking rooted in decades of history, and stockholders must get the chance to thoroughly evaluate the effects of this rule and those the Department says are coming soon.” NCBA and other industry partners requested an extension of the comment period last month in a letter to USDA. The proposed Packers and Stockyards Act rule spans 180 pages, poses 44 specific questions, and covers 14 years of regulatory history, so the initial 60-day period was too short. *********************************************************************************** Railroad Conductors Union Rejects Settlement Proposal The union representing railroad conductors rejected a White House-brokered deal and a strike could start as soon as December 9. The latest rejection comes from the union representing 28,000 conductors, brakemen, and yardmen. NPR says the total number of unions rejecting the agreement is four with a combined membership of close to 60,000 workers. Eight other unions ratified the deal but could get pulled back into the dispute. NPR says that’s because if one union decides to strike, all of the unions will honor the picket lines. The National Grain and Feed Association, the Soy Transportation Coalition, the National Milk Producers Federation, and many other agricultural groups are asking Congress to step in and prevent a shutdown, which would be catastrophic for the U.S. economy. The USDA says railroads carry 29 percent of the nation’s soybeans, 33 percent of the corn, and 60 percent of U.S. wheat to export terminals. *********************************************************************************** Sustainable Agriculture Coalition Releases Farm Bill Priorities The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s 2023 Farm Bill campaign will advance programs and priorities that build resilience and equity across the American agricultural sector. Other platform goals include restoring competition, investing in science, and renewing the environment for current and future generations of Americans. One of the group’s biggest goals is strengthening resilient local and regional food systems. “A lack of technical assistance continues to make it difficult for many farmers and producers to update their businesses to take advantage of market opportunities,” the group says. “Federal farm and food programs must support all producers who want to take advantage of the opportunities.” The coalition also wants to fix a “flawed farm safety net and restore fair competition to the ag sector.” The group says, “Right now, the farm safety net serves as an open-ended entitlement subsidy that encourages high land prices, soil-depleting farming practices and systems, farm consolidation, and declining opportunities.” *********************************************************************************** NSP Applauds Expanded RMA Coverage for Grain Sorghum National Sorghum Producers applauds the USDA’s Risk Management Agency’s enhancing coverage for irrigated grain sorghum producers. The new coverage will be effective November 30 for the upcoming year. “This expanded coverage for irrigated sorghum producers is the culmination of ten years’ work between NSP, Congress, and RMA,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “We thank them for continuing to work with us to improve coverage options for sorghum producers.” He also says the improved rates and yields for sorghum producers will offer a greater level of aid and new opportunities for the 2023 growing season. RMA developed improved crop insurance options for irrigated grain sorghum producers in select counties in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. “The existing rates for irrigated corn will be used for irrigated grain sorghum and 80 percent of the irrigated corn yield will be used to determine the guarantee,” says RMA, “with no change to the grain sorghum price.” *********************************************************************************** USDA’s Trade Mission to Spain Seeks to Boost Opportunities More than 30 agribusinesses and farm organizations will visit Madrid, Spain, from November 29 through December 2 during an upcoming USDA trade mission. Delegation members will engage directly with potential buyers from Spain and Portugal and receive in-depth market briefs from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts and participate in site visits. Spain is the third-largest EU destination for U.S. agricultural products and Portugal is number 11. “One of the key goals of this USDA trade mission is to highlight both our commonalities and what truly sets U.S. foods and ingredients apart from our competitors in the region,” says FAS Associate Administrator Clay Hamilton. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers have a compelling story to tell about the quality and sustainability of their agricultural production, and we are confident that story will resonate with buyers, result in many sales, and provide a boost to the agriculture industry back home.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 23, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The day before Thanksgiving has many reports, including U.S. jobless claims, October durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index and U.S. new home sales at 9 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. and minutes from the Federal Reserve's latest open market committee meeting at 1 p.m. U.S. grain and livestock futures close at their regular times Wednesday and open at 8:30 a.m. CDT on Friday for a short trading session. Weather A storm system moving through the Rockies on Wednesday will start to develop showers and thunderstorms out ahead of it Wednesday night across the southeastern Plains. Other areas of the country will be dry with mild temperatures for this time of year, a good day for holiday travel.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 22, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket and trading volume may be light this week of Thanksgiving -- sometimes encouraging mischievous behavior. As usual, traders will monitor weather forecasts and watch for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. CDT. Weather A quiet weather day is expected for most areas of the country Tuesday. A system will be moving into the Pacific Northwest with scattered showers, however. This system will dive into the Southern Plains by Thursday where showers will be more likely to develop for Thanksgiving. Temperatures are moderating for most areas, with more normal-like readings for this time of year.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 21, 2022 |
Electric Vehicles Won’t Have AM Radios People shopping for electric vehicles will see that most don’t have AM radio, and it’s a move not sitting well with rural farm broadcasters. Nathan Simington is a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission who spoke to broadcasters at the National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s annual convention. He brought a unique perspective to the topic after growing up on a farm in Canada. “AM radio is an indispensable source of information for more than three million farmers in the U.S.,” Simington says. “To those who say AM is a dead technology, 75 percent of farmers listen to the radio five days per week.” For those who don’t know, AM radio is also the “essential spine” of the Emergency Alert System. “More importantly, farm broadcasters, especially those on AM, are a trusted source of information,” Simington adds. “Forget about oil and gas. These days, trust is the most important commodity out there.” *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Ask for Support of Domestic Formula Production The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to lawmakers asking for support of domestic infant formula production as the shortfalls that emptied store shelves of formula have eased. Given the improving situation, tariff waivers that could discourage the production of a safe, secure domestic infant formula supply should be allowed to expire at the end of this year as scheduled. The milk producers sent their letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. “Given the temporary shortfall that gripped American families in need of formula earlier this year has abated, we urge Congress to ensure that the unique, unilateral tariff benefits granted to our trading partners under the Formula Act and the Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act end as scheduled at the close of the year,” the letter says. “We request opposition to efforts to extend the benefits.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA, PLC Oppose ESA Listing of Lesser Prairie Chicken The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council announced their opposition to listing the Lesser Prairie Chicken under the Endangered Species Act after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released a final rule. “Over and over, the science has proven that healthy, diverse rangelands, the exact kind of landscape maintained by livestock grazing, are where the lesser prairie chicken thrives,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Cattle ranchers’ efforts to conserve these acres are absolutely critical to the survival of the species.” She also says they’re deeply disappointed by the Fish and Wildlife decision to impose redundant and punitive restrictions on the very same people they have to thank for the lesser prairie chicken’s continued existence on the range. The Service is also establishing a rule allowing them to appoint third parties, including environmental activist groups, as the grazing authorities in the range of the lesser prairie chicken. *********************************************************************************** Beef Advocacy Program Wants New Applicants The Beef Checkoff-funded Trailblazers program is asking for applications for its next class of beef advocates. Trailblazers, developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while correcting misconceptions. “Trailblazers develops the next generation of beef advocates through a highly-engaging and interactive program,” says Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development for NCBA. The program is looking for new spokespeople to participate in a year-long, hands-on program to train, equip, and empower beef advocates. Selected candidates learn to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews, and understand how to build confidence in beef-related practices when talking to consumers. Applications are due by December 30, and selected participants will get notified in mid-January. Applicants must be 21 and provide two references with their application. For information, go to NCBA.org. *********************************************************************************** Testimony on SEC’s Proposed Climate Rule Montana Senator Jon Tester pushed the leader of the Securities and Exchange Commission to avoid taking action on its proposed Climate Rule that could potentially hurt American farmers. He’s concerned that action would lead to burdensome reporting requirements for family farmers and ranchers who are part of the supply chain for a publicly-traded company as part of the agency’s proposed climate disclosure rule. “I appreciate our discussion and your response that the SEC doesn’t intend for public companies to have an obligation to ask producers for information to estimate these emissions,” he says. “However, the agency must not take any action that may lead, intentionally or not, to burdensome reporting requirements for production agriculture.” Montana producers applauded the senator’s continued action. “We support the senator’s efforts to help the SEC understand our concerns with what could potentially be a far overreaching rule,” says Cyndi Johnson, president of the Montana Farm Bureau. *********************************************************************************** Proposed WIC Change Would Decrease Access to Dairy Products The National Milk Producers Federation and the International Dairy Foods Association say the USDA’s proposed changes to the Women, Infants, and Children’s Nutrition Program will limit dairy access. “Unfortunately, the changes would decrease access to dairy products and the unique nutrient profile they provide, especially considering the current Dietary Guidelines say almost 90 percent of the U.S. population doesn’t consume enough dairy to meet recommendations,” the groups say in a statement. “Nutrition science clearly shows that nutritious dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, and cottage cheese are especially important in the diets of women, infants, and children.” They also say dairy is a source of 13 nutrients, including three of the four that are a public health concern as noted by the dietary guidelines. The groups look forward to working with USDA to modernize the WIC food package for eligible families to increase access to nutrient-dense milk, yogurt, and cheese.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 21, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and survey the news, especially any updates from the war in Ukraine. USDA's weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. This will be an abbreviated week of trading with Thanksgiving on Thursday, followed by a shorter session Friday. Weather After a brutally cold week for most of the country, temperatures early this week are moderating and becoming more seasonable for most areas. Some light precipitation may be found near the Gulf Coast but most areas are going to stay dry early this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 18, 2022 |
Rural Mainstreet Economy Shrinks for Six Straight Months The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index fell below growth-neutral for the sixth-consecutive month. On a scale of one to 100, 50 represents growth neutral. The Economic Confidence Index plummeted to its lowest level since 2020. Almost 31 percent of bank CEOs in the survey area recommend that the Fed cease raising interest rates. Despite the weaker rural outlook, only 14 percent of the CEOs say their bank had increased financial commitments on farm loans. Farmland demand remains strong as the Farmland Price index climbed above 50 for the 26th month in a row. Almost 61 percent of bank CEOs expect these high farmland prices to plateau, while 22 percent say those land prices will likely decline during the period. “The rural Mainstreet economy is now experiencing a downturn in economic activity,” says Dr. Ernie Goss. “Last month, almost one in four bankers said the economy was already in a recession.” *********************************************************************************** Increased Ethanol Blend Rates Lower Fuel Costs for Drivers A new Energy Information Administration report clearly shows higher ethanol blends helped moderate fuel prices after the Ukraine invasion. The report also says the ethanol blend rates hit a record summer average of 10.5 percent. “Fuel ethanol’s price discount to gasoline was one factor that led to the higher summer blend rate in 2022,” the report says. “Although ethanol prices were higher in 2022, they were still low relative to gas prices that were at the highest level since 2014. “The new analysis shows that American drivers gravitated toward lower-cost E15 and E85 this summer as war in Ukraine drove fuel prices to record highs,” says Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “The report also shows that President Biden made the right call by issuing emergency waivers to allow the continued sales of E15 through the summer.” RFA also says the report shows the importance of year-round access to E15. *********************************************************************************** Black Sea Grain Export Deal Extended, Russia Wants More The Black Sea Grain Export Deal, due to expire on Saturday, has been extended for another 120 days. Reuters says Moscow wants its own demands in the deal to get more fully addressed. The agreement protects a sea transit corridor and was intended to help alleviate a global food shortage. Ukraine, a major producer of grains and oilseeds, has three ports in Ukraine currently shipping grain. UN’s Secretary General says they welcome the agreement by all parties to continue the Black Sea grain initiative to facilitate the safe navigation of grain exports, foodstuffs, and fertilizers from Ukraine. Russian exports of ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea haven’t been agreed to as part of the renewal. However, Russia is continuing its efforts to resume those exports unimpeded by Western sanctions. The 120-day extension wasn’t the one-year deal the United Nations and Ukraine wanted. Russia says the duration seems “justified.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Science-Driven Updates to WIC USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service announced proposed changes to the foods prescribed to participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC (wick). These science-based revisions incorporate recommendations from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. “USDA is committed to advancing maternal and child health through WIC, helping mothers, babies, and young kids thrive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These proposed changes will strengthen WIC, which is already an incredible program, by ensuring it provides foods that reflect the latest nutrition science to support healthy eating and bright futures.” The changes will increase the current level of assistance while providing WIC state agencies with more flexibility to tailor or accommodate personal and cultural food preferences and special dietary needs and increase variety and choice for WIC participants, making the program more appealing for current and potential participants. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Building a Sustainability Task Force The American Lamb Board is working with the American sheep industry to create a new task force of industry stakeholders and research and extension specialists to develop a sheep sustainability report. The report will represent the sheep industry’s commitment to sustainability and the industry’s existing practices and goals for continuous improvement in animal care, environmental stewardship, social impacts, and industry productivity. The task force was developed, in part, because of a Michigan State University environmental footprint study. MSU gathered production data and calculated GHG emissions of five different sheep production systems: intensive production, intensive grazing, extensive grazing, range, and feedlots. The study identified the major production factors contributing to GHG emissions in U.S. sheep production, which will help develop mitigation strategies and best practices for each production system to reduce emissions. ALB says its environmental story was added to marketing programs in the past several months, and they’re gearing up for more. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Lowest Level in a Month The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to its lowest level in more than a month, and inventories dropped during the week ending on November 11. The newest EIA report says the production fell to an average of 1.011 million barrels a day. That’s down from 1.051 million barrels during the prior week and the lowest level since October. In the Midwest, the largest-producing region in the U.S., production dropped to 954,000 barrels a day from 992,000 barrels the week before. That’s also the lowest level for the Midwest in over a month. Gulf Coast production declined to an average of 23,000 barrels a day, a 1,000-barrel-a-day drop from the prior week. Rocky Mountain output fell to 13,000 barrels a day, the lowest output since September 23. The East Coast saw the only production increase at 13,000 barrels a day. Inventories through November 11 fell to 21.298 million barrels.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 18, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Friday features two economic reports -- existing home sales and leading economic indicators. We will also be watching for any new grain or soybean sales, South American weather, and any news out of Ukraine. Weather A reinforcing shot of cold air continues to flow into the U.S. on Friday. It is causing some light snow in places, but with little accumulation outside of the Great Lakes, where lake-effect snows are intense. Sub-freezing temperatures have made it to almost all areas of the country outside of some spots in the Southwest, southern Texas, and the Florida Peninsula with sub-zero readings in the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 17, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, October housing starts and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to wait for Russia's decision on the Ukraine grain deal and keep watch over the latest forecasts. Weather Another push of cold air across the northern half of the country is bringing the potential for widespread light snows on Thursday. Breezy winds are coming as well, with gusts up to 45 mph in the Northern Plains that could lead to reduced visibility and blowing snow. Lake-effect snows on the eastern side of the Great Lakes continue to be heavier.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 17, 2022 |
Farm Bureau Survey Shows Thanksgiving Dinner Cost up 20 Percent Thanksgiving is an important holiday for spending time with family and friends. Farm Bureau’s 37th annual Thanksgiving Dinner survey provides a look at the cost of this year’s classic feast for 10. This year’s price tag is $64.05, up more than ten dollars from last year’s average of $53.31. It still works out to under $6.50 per person. The centerpiece is the turkey, which costs more than last year at $28.96 for a 16-pound bird. It’s 21 percent higher than last year. Other ingredients in the meal include stuffing mix, dinner rolls, milk, sweet potatoes, a veggie tray, pie crusts, and several others. The only traditional ingredient that’s cheaper than last year is a bag of fresh cranberries at $2.57, 14 percent cheaper than last year. American Farm Bureau Chief Economist Roger Cryan said factors driving the prices higher include general inflation, supply chain challenges, and the war in Ukraine. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Additional Emergency Relief for Producers Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is planning for additional emergency relief and pandemic assistance. USDA will soon roll out phase two of the Emergency Relief Program as well as the new Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program. Those programs will help offset crop and revenue losses for producers. USDA is announcing the forthcoming assistance early enough to give producers time to gather documents and train the agency’s staff. “We have diligently worked to help agricultural producers bounce back from devastating natural disasters and COVID-19 through a number of programs,” Vilsack says. “These new programs are focused on filling gaps in assistance where some producers have fallen through the cracks.” ERP phase two will assist eligible producers who suffered crop losses due to wildfires, hurricanes, flood, derechos, and others. PARP will help eligible commodity producer who lost revenue in 2020 compared to previous years due to COVID-19. For more info, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Likely to Drop Next Year Cargill’s CEO says he expects food prices to decline in 2023. Yahoo says that’s despite tight global crop stockpiles, especially in oilseeds. David MacLennan, Cargill CEO, says the solution to the food versus fuel debate is to boost global crop commodity production. “We don’t think it’s going to be an either-or dynamic,” he says. “It can be food and fuel.” MacLennan also says regenerative agricultural practices, greater yields, and more use of technology can increase output so it can meet the demand from both food and fuel sectors. World food prices hit a record in March after Russia invaded Ukraine and prevented exports from one of the world’s top grain producers. Prices did drop after the United Nations helped reach a grain deal that allowed ships filled with Ukrainian grain to pass unimpeded through the Black Sea. “Food shouldn’t be a weapon,” MacLellan adds. “The world depends on an interconnected food system.” *********************************************************************************** NMPF Wants Expedited Approval of Climate-Friendly Additives The National Milk Producers Federation wants the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to speed up the approval of climate-smart feed additives. The group wants the FDA to modernize its regulations allowing for faster approval of animal feed additives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The milk producers submitted comments to the agency highlighting the need for urgent action to enhance dairy’s role as a climate solution. “Innovative and voluntary solutions are needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including methane,” says Dr. Jamie Jonker, NMPF Chief Science Officer. “Feed composition changes can directly or indirectly reduce enteric emissions resulting from livestock.” While animal feed additives help on the path to net-zero emissions, the pace of their approval lags behind competitors like the European Union due to current FDA processes. “One of the greatest opportunities that exists for dairy farmers is their ability to provide real solutions to many challenges like GHG emissions,” Jonker says. *********************************************************************************** Grab That Turkey for Thanksgiving As Americans prepare for Thanksgiving, it’s probably not surprising that the number of available turkeys is lower than last year. Only 49.6 million pounds of turkeys remained in cold storage as of Monday, which a USDA report says is down 18 percent week-to-week. At the end of August, when supplies are usually at their peak, they totaled more than 114 million pounds. An updated USDA report says while turkey production was expected to drop by seven percent, the amount of meat in storage rose one percent from the same point last year. The last month new chicks can mature enough for Thanksgiving is August, and placements rose two percent higher than the five-year-average as producers attempted to make up for lost output because of avian influenza earlier this year. Since the end of August, inventories have steadily declined. Stocks in September dropped to just over 105 million pounds, nine percent above 2021. *********************************************************************************** Helping Veterans Find New Careers John Deere announced an agreement with the U.S. Army Reserve to help service members and their families access career opportunities while transferring to civilian life. The agreement allows Deere to provide active-duty soldiers transitioning to the Army Reserves with meaningful education and skills that will make them top candidates for future employment. Deere says it’s honored to give back to the nation’s veterans by helping them take the skills they learned and develop them in a new career path. The agreement builds upon the Defense Department’s Skill Bridge Program, which places active-duty military members in civilian jobs for the final six months of service. Reserve members typically face unemployment rates two or three times the national average. The internship allows vets to get on the ground training and industry education that can help make them better candidates for open jobs. Active-duty, National Guard, or Reserve vets and spouses can go to deere.com.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 16, 2022 |
USDA Provides Almost $24 Million for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers USDA Chief Scientist Chavonda Jacobs-Young says the agency will invest nearly $24 million across 45 organizations and institutions that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers. “Investing in the professional development of our nation’s newest farmers and ranchers will help our food and agriculture sectors to flourish from the ground up,” she says. The investments will support a wide range of activities across a number of important topics for new farmers and ranchers, including managing capital, acquiring and managing land, and learning effective business and farming practices. The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. “We recognize that beginning farmers and ranchers have unique needs for education, training, and technical assistance,” says NIFA Acting Director Dr. Dionne Toombs. “This investment will benefit a new generation of beginning farmers and ranchers across the spectrum of American agriculture. For more information, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Farm Groups Ask USTR for “Fresh Start” With WTO USA Rice released a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai from ag groups asking her for a “fresh start” at the World Trade Organization. “We believe negotiations are at a crossroads, and the current environment is conducive to a fresh start,” the groups say in a letter. “The groups are asking for a forum at the WTO that would facilitate discussion of the traditional core issues as well as emerging trade-related issues like trade liberalization and innovation-friendly regulatory approaches.” They also say if the current WTO structure doesn’t allow for “blank-slate” negotiations, the groups want her to develop alternatives to address these issues. “Finally, a critical element of agricultural trade liberalization will be an effective enforcement mechanism,” they say. “Indefinitely extending the block on appellate body appointments or agreeing to reforms that weaken dispute settlement will be detrimental to America’s agricultural producers and possible discussions surrounding agricultural trade issues.” *********************************************************************************** Farm Workers to Lobby for Immigration Bill Over 60 farm worker groups from across America are traveling to Washington this week to urge the Senate to pass the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. The United Farmworkers, the UFW Foundation, and other groups will make the trip to Washington, D.C. to lobby for the bill, which is a compromise between farm and labor leaders and supported by most farm groups. The Fence Post Dot Com says the House passed the bill, but Senate supporters haven’t convinced enough Republicans to support the bill to get the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster. Lobbyists for the bill worry that passing it in the next Congress would be close to impossible if Republicans wind up controlling the House. Farm workers from major agricultural states like Arizona, California, Washington, Georgia, and others will be lobbying elected officials. “Providing America’s agricultural workforce with legal status and stability is crucial,” says UFW President Teresa Romero. *********************************************************************************** Group Wants Seven Billion Gallon Biofuel Law Clean Fuels America Alliance wants the Environmental Protection Agency to increase the advanced biofuels’ share of the fuel market by one billion gallons a year to reflect the rising interest in renewable diesel production. The recommendations would raise the federal mandate for second-generation biofuels by over 7.6 billion gallons in 2024, which amounts to a 36 percent increase from this year. “We’re seeing the production of renewable diesel coming online,” says Donnell Rehagen, Clean Fuels America CEO. “We believe the EPA has to increase the biomass-based diesel volume by 500 million gallons and the advance biofuels by one billion gallons for each of the next two years.” In an agreement with the biofuel industry, the EPA has a deadline on November 30 to announce the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023 and possibly for additional years. Plants with up to three billion gallons of capacity will come online in the next three years. *********************************************************************************** Russia Expected to Extend the Black Sea Grain Deal Russia will likely extend the United Nations-brokered deal allowing exports of grain and other farm products from Ukraine. Four people tell Bloomberg that the deal expires on November 19 and that Russia will likely allow the deal to renew. Just ahead of the expiration, United Nations’ leadership and Russian officials met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Reuters says the two sides had a lengthy discussion and talked through all the aspects related to facilitating Russian exports of food and fertilizers, as well as the Black Sea Initiative. The accord helped stave off a global food crisis by allowing food and fertilizer exports from several of Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. Russia wants unhindered access to world markets for its own food and fertilizer exports in return for agreeing to continue the Black Sea export deal. Moscow says it could quit the deal if progress isn’t made on its concerns. *********************************************************************************** Another Record Land Sale in Iowa Iowa set another record for farmland sales. Seventy-three acres of high-quality farmland in Sioux County, Iowa, sold for $30,000 per acre at auction on November 11. That’s a total sale worth $2.195 million. That’s just part of a new $30,000-per-acre club in Iowa. A local farmer was the buyer, and the runner-up was also a farmer. A statement from Iowa Appraisal says the company can’t explain these recent price records. The price itself got negotiated in just minutes. “There’s no really good explanation for sudden jumps in these record prices,” the company says. The farm had 72.49 tillable acres with a balance in roads and ditches. Its corn acreage base is 28.19 acres with a yield of 172 bushels an acre, and a soybean base of 38.19 acres with a yield of 56 bushels an acre. A recent auction saw 116 acres of southeast Nebraska farmland sell for $27,400 per acre.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 16, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for October is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Fed's report on October industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. and includes ethanol production. Traders will continue to closely watch news events from Ukraine, as well as the latest weather forecasts. Weather A system is moving through the Northeast with a batch of heavy snow. A trough over the middle of the country continues to produce light snow across the Midwest. And another push of cold air coming down from Canada is leading to light snows for the Northern Plains. Some of those snows could be heavier closer to the Rockies tonight and come with some breezy winds as well. Meanwhile, below normal temperatures have largely enveloped the entire U.S.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 15, 2022 |
Ag Groups Call for Congress to Reaffirm Federal Pesticide Preemption More than 300 agriculture, environment, academic, and infrastructure stakeholder groups are calling on Congress to reaffirm federal pesticide preemption on labeling and packaging. Failing to do so, the groups warn, could hold disastrous consequences for our food security, the environment, public health, vital infrastructure, and other uses where pesticides provide important societal benefits. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act is clear that states “shall not impose or continue in effect any requirements for labeling or packaging in addition to or different from those required” by the federal government. However, in recent years, states have sought to impose health claim label requirements that directly contradict federal findings. In a letter to Congress, the groups call on Congress to reaffirm that states may not impose additional labeling or packaging requirements that conflict with federal findings. American Soybean Association President Brad Doyle says, “Farmers and other pesticide users need predictable access to these tools to protect their crops and maintain important conservation practices. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Leaders Call for Greater Cryptocurrency Regulation Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee last week called for more federal oversight of cryptocurrency exchanges. The comments come as cryptocurrency exchange FTX collapsed last week, and a collapse of cryptocurrency prices. The Senate Agriculture Committee has jurisdiction over the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, “Consumers continue to be harmed by the lack of transparency and accountability in this market. Ranking Republican from Arkansas, John Boozman, says, “The events that have transpired reinforce the clear need for greater federal oversight of the digital asset industry.” Boozman adds, “While our legislative work continues, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission already has the ability to regulate and prosecute fraud, manipulation and abuse. I strongly encourage them to actively exercise those authorities when necessary.” The Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act of 2022, sponsored by Stabenow, would amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide the Commodity Futures Trading Commission jurisdiction to oversee the spot digital commodity market *********************************************************************************** NCGA Launches Search for Next CEO The National Corn Growers Association Board of Directors has hired Hedlin Ag Enterprises of Ankeny, Iowa, to assist with the search for a new CEO. Current NCGA CEO Jon Doggett has worked for NCGA for more than 20 years as our Vice President of Public Policy, Executive Vice President and, since 2018, as CEO. Doggett made his intentions known to the board earlier this year, and his last day with the organization will be December 31, 2022." NCGA President Tom Haag says, “We have been very thoughtful and put a lot of time and effort into this process.” The initial part of the search involves identifying and vetting potential candidates for the position, which will occur through the end of this year and into the beginning of 2023. Candidate interviews for the CEO position will be held in February with the intention of introducing the new CEO during Commodity Classic in March. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Department of Ag Cancels Live Bird Exhibitions The Iowa Department of Agriculture and last week announced an order canceling all live bird exhibitions at fairs and other gatherings of birds. The order comes as Iowa and the rest of the nation face a continued threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza. The order also prohibits live birds from being sold or transferred at livestock auction markets, swap meets, and exotic sales. The order is in place for a minimum of 30 days, and until 30 days have passed without confirmation of a new infection of HPAI in domestic poultry in the state. A similar order was announced March 23 and was lifted June 3. HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease affecting bird populations. HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys. The virus can spread through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil. *********************************************************************************** Disability Status Can Affect Food Security Among U.S. Households In 2021, households that included an adult with disabilities reported higher food insecurity rates than households with no adults with disabilities. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that in 2021, for U.S. households that included an adult out of the labor force because of a disability, 28 percent were food insecure. Among U.S. households with an adult age 18-64 who reported a disability but was not out of the labor force because of it, 24 percent were food insecure. In contrast, seven percent of households with adults without disabilities were food insecure in 2021. Households that include at least one adult 65 and over who reported a disability had food insecurity prevalence rates similar to households with adults without disabilities, at nine percent. In 2021, the prevalence rate of very low food security for households that included adults not in the labor force because of a disability was more than five times that of households that included adults without disabilities. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Gas Prices Lower, Diesel Rises Again After just a week, average gas prices have returned to their decline, with the national average falling 2.6 cents from a week ago to $3.76 per gallon. The national average is down 14.3 cents from a month ago but stands 36.3 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 2.3 cents in the last week and stands at $5.34 per gallon. Diesel supplies remain short, prompting the inverse in price between gas and diesel. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “With oil prices remaining volatile, the outlook is murky, but I’m hopeful in the lead up to Thanksgiving we’ll see prices declining in more states.” The decline has been partly driven by Great Lakes states, where prices fell by 15-25 cents per gallon due to an improvement in the refining situation, and also oil prices. GasBuddy reports U.S. retail gasoline demand fell last week by 0.4 percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 15, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index for October will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and is apt to resemble the smaller increases already seen in last Thursday's consumer price index. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will report on members' soybean crush in October later Tuesday morning. Traders will keep watch over the latest weather forecasts and any news pertaining to Ukraine this week. Weather A system moving through on Tuesday is bringing widespread precipitation to the eastern half of the country. Across northern areas it is snow, mostly in the light to moderate category. For the Southeast, it's rain and could be moderate in spots. Cold air continues to pour in behind this system, making it feel like winter and causing wheat to go dormant.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 14, 2022 |
Interest and Drought Pressuring Still Strong Farm Economy Interest rates on farm loans increased sharply in the third quarter, and the acceleration in farm real estate values continued to ease. The Kansas City Fed says farm income and credit conditions remained solid, but the pace of improvement softened. The financial impact of the drought also intensified, particularly in the southern and western portions of the district. Despite the recent headwinds, farm finances remained strong and continued to support sound agricultural loan performance. The outlook for the agricultural economy generally remains positive despite a recent pull back in prices for some key farm commodities. Crop market volatility, higher expenses, and drought could hinder income opportunities for some producers, but prices for key crops and livestock remain at multi-year highs, and profit opportunities remain favorable across the farm sector. The recent substantial improvement in farm finances and a surge in agricultural real estate values have also bolstered farmer balance sheets. *********************************************************************************** Combine Sales Rise While Tractor Sales Drop in October Combine harvester sales showed double-digit gains during October in North America. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says all tractor sales fell in the U.S. and Canada. The latest AEM report says total U.S. ag equipment unit sales stayed above the five-year average for the third time since April. Total farm tractor sales fell 11 percent in October when compared to last year. The biggest drop took place in the sub-40 horsepower category, which fell almost 24 percent. Self-propelled combine sales grew 77 percent to 1,678 units sold. All ag tractor segments above 40 horsepower grew as well, led by a 25 percent rise in 100-plus HP units. Total farm tractor sales are down 14 percent year-to-date, a slight improvement over the prior month. U.S. combine sales are up 16 percent year-to-date. The only segments in Canada that showed growth were four-wheel-drive tractors up 19 percent and combine harvesters up 33 percent. *********************************************************************************** CAB Awards $70,000 in Scholarship Funds Certified Angus Beef awarded an annual record of $70,000 in scholarships to 20 students pursuing careers at the ranch, in meat science, in a research lab, or supporting agricultural business and marketing. The Colvin Scholarship Fund recognizes students for the commitment and energy they bring to agriculture, their education, and their community involvement. Young leaders with bright ideas for making the best beef even better earned five production agriculture, ten undergraduate, and five graduate scholarships. Danielle Matter, CAB director of brand experience and education, says, “All of this year’s recipients shine a bright light on the future of the beef business, and we are excited to see how the awards positively influence these students.” The students recognized through the scholarships are carrying on the legacy of the brand’s co-founder and former executive director Louis “Mick” Colvin. Since 2022, the fund has supported a total of 121 recipients through $418,500 in scholarships. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Applauds Focus on Protecting Food and Ag Sector The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hailed the signing of the National Security Memorandum to Strengthen the Security and Resilience of U.S. Food and Agriculture. The memorandum helps the federal government to identify the threats facing our food supply and improve national readiness and response. “Our agricultural sector faces a variety of threats that could inhibit cattle producers’ ability to bring beef from pasture to plate,” says NCBA CEO Colin Woodall. “We appreciate the focus on developing threat mitigation strategies.” He also says if everyone works together, “We can protect our industry while ensuring that all Americans have access to wholesome foods like beef.” The memorandum instructs top government officials on identifying threats and coordinating with all levels of government on a response. The NCBA is especially pleased that the Biden Administration is making security and resiliency decisions based on sound data. “These are the kinds of data-driven decisions we support,” says Woodall. *********************************************************************************** Report Show Increasing Acreage and Sustainability for U.S. Cotton Production The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol released a report showing increasing improvement in the sustainability of American cotton production. The report shows significant improvements in important sustainability metrics. Cotton Trust Protocol members have recorded a 13 percent increase in land use efficiency and a 14 percent increase in water use efficiency. There’s also a 25 percent reduction in energy use, a 21 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and a 78 percent reduction in soil loss. Seventy percent of growers in the protocol had a positive Soil Conservation Index. Membership in the Cotton Trust Protocol has grown both domestically and internationally. Enrolled acres of U.S. cotton production have doubled to 1.1 million acres since the program’s pilot year. All 17 of the major U.S. cotton-producing states are now represented. Dr. Gary Adams, Cotton Trust President, says the results speak for themselves in the impressive progress made by growers on key sustainability metrics.” *********************************************************************************** Year-Round Ethanol Sales Idea Wins Oil Group Support A Republican senator from Nebraska plans to submit legislation to expand national sales of E15 with the support of a major oil industry trade group. Successful Farming says Deb Fischer believes there is a way to move ahead with year-round E15 sales that have previously been opposed by some oil and environmental groups. The American Petroleum Institute, one of the oil industry’s top trade groups, began discussions earlier this year with the Renewable Fuels Association on a nationwide expansion of E15. The API began cooperating with biofuel trade groups after governors from major corn-producing states requested the Environmental Protection Agency lift restrictions on E15 sales in their states. The governors’ proposal raised oil industry concerns about fuel supplies. “A state-by-state approach would create a boutique fuel market in the Midwest and may negatively impact the reliability of gasoline supply to the region,” says Will Hupman, API Vice President of Downstream Policy.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 14, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking over the latest weather forecasts and any market-related news, especially as Russia is expected to either accept or quit the Ukrainian grain deal by November 19. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather Widespread cold has gripped most of the nation, making it feel like winter. A small system developing in Texas will spread scattered showers through the southern half of the Plains states but quickly move eastward through the Southeast with rain going into Tuesday. The northern half of the precipitation will be snow and could be moderate in some spots through the Plains and into the Midwest. The reinforcing cold coming behind the system will likely continue the process of turning wheat dormant in a lot of areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 11, 2022 |
Union Pushes Back Date for Potential Railroad Worker Strike A key railroad workers’ union says it won’t go on strike after November 19. The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way – Employees Division says it will hold off on any type of action until early December. Freight Waves Dot Com says that will give railroads more time to come up with their best offer without the pressure of an imminent walkout. The status quo period will be in place along with three other unions that have yet to approve their labor agreements. This period, known as a “cooling-off period,” means unions or railroads can’t engage in any work stoppages according to federal law. The union says it’s the last chance for railroads to do the right thing by voluntarily agreeing to provide paid sick leave to all employees. “Congress should not intervene and rescue the railroads if they continue to refuse to provide workers with paid sick leave,” the union says in a statement. *********************************************************************************** Export Exchange Leads to $225 Million in Sales The Export Exchange Conference recently hosted by the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association is already paying off. According to surveys of grain buyers who attended the event, they bought $225 million worth of grain and ethanol co-products. In addition to that total, another $128 million in potential sales is under negotiations. That equates to almost 515,000 metric tons of grains and co-products traded at the conference or immediately before or after. “Trade is absolutely critical to U.S. farmers right now, and these sales show that buyers attending the Export Exchange took the buying opportunities very seriously,” says USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “Exports of U.S. grains and DDGS create jobs at home while helping international companies satisfy their demand for quality products.” Geoff Cooper, RFA President and CEO, says buyers bought enough DDGS to fill three Panamax vessels. *********************************************************************************** USMEF Conference Examines Exports, Constraints, and Headwinds The U.S. Meat Export Federation’s Strategic Planning Conference in Oklahoma City attracted farmers, ranchers, processors, and exporters from across the country. While U.S. red meat exports will likely set a record in value, there are several obstacles ahead for the industry, including a sluggish global economy, weaker currencies, and the lingering effects of COVID. Production challenges are also mounting, especially with severe drought. Keynote speaker Randy Blach (Block) of CattleFax says despite the challenges, the U.S. red meat industry is still remarkably efficient and sustainable. He says American producers are well-positioned for success, even in this challenging environment. “We produce more beef than Brazil with one-third the number of cattle,” Blach says. “It’s our high-quality, grain-fed beef.” USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom updated members on current export results and the outlook for the months ahead. He also highlighted the importance of market diversification that’s helped exports maintain their record pace. *********************************************************************************** Mexican Lawmakers Pushing to Ban Almost 200 Pesticide Chemicals A group of lawmakers in Mexico is attempting to ban almost 200 chemicals used in pesticides, and the country’s farmers are alarmed at the prospect. While supporters of the idea want pesticides banned because it’s harmful to human health, farmers say that could devastate Mexico’s ability to produce food. Head Topics Dot Com says there’s a growing push in Mexico against using pesticides and growing genetically modified corn. However, some in the Mexican government say this proposal goes too far too quickly. The country is already getting rid of glyphosate, and the country intends to ban genetically modified corn in 2024. The Senate will soon take up the plan to phase out 183 different chemicals contained in commonly-used pesticides by 2024. The proposed bill pushes alternatives like bio-inputs and extract products to replace pesticides. If the bill is approved, it moves to a Senate vote and then the lower house. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $50 Million in Healthier School Meals USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service launched a new initiative for healthier school meals through a $50 million grant opportunity. It will support collaboration with the food industry to develop nutritious and appetizing school meals for students. “We’re investing in innovative solutions and challenging the industry to partner with us to ensure every student has access to healthy school meals,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “For children to reach their full academic potential, they must build healthy eating habits, and USDA recognizes the importance of private sector partnership in making this happen.” The request for grant applications is now open and marks the second phase of USDA’s $100 million Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative. The initiative is designed to improve the quality of school meals by strengthening access to nutritious food products. Up to four non-governmental organizations will be selected by the Food and Nutrition Service to manage funds for the School Food System Transformation Challenge. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Ethanol Output Hits Four-Month High The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production hit its highest level in four months while inventories declined during the week ending on November 4. The weekly output rose to an average of 1.051 million barrels per day. That’s up from 1.04 million barrels during the previous week and the highest level since June 24. The Midwest, which produces the most ethanol of any region in the country saw production rise to 992,000 barrels per day on average. That’s up from 981,000 the prior week and the highest production level since June 17. The Midwest gains were the entirety of the additions as production in most regions stayed the same from the previous week. East Coast production remained at 12,000 barrels a day for the third-straight week, and Rocky Mountain production was steady at 15,000 barrels a day for the fourth-straight week. Ethanol inventories that week dropped to 22.192 million barrels.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 11, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Friday is Veterans Day, a special day to honor those that have served. Futures markets will trade as usual and the University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for November is due out at 9 a.m. CDT. Traders will watch the latest weather forecasts and be attentive to any news that comes from Friday's meeting of Russian and U.N. officials pertaining to the Ukrainian grain deal. Weather The remnants to Nicole are spreading rain across the Appalachians and East Coast for Friday. Some of those showers are falling west of the mountain range, which will add a minor boost to the inland river systems. A sharp cold front continues to trek eastward through the country with very cold, arctic air settling in behind it that will last through next week. As the front passes, temperatures will fall dramatically.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 10, 2022 |
USDA Releases November WASDE USDA released the November World Agriculture Supply and Demand report Wednesday. This month's 2022/23 U.S. corn outlook is for higher production, larger feed and residual use, and greater ending stocks. Corn production is forecast at 13.930 billion bushels, up 35 million from last month, on a 0.4-bushel increase in yield to 172.3 bushels per acre. The season-average corn price received by producers was unchanged at $6.80 per bushel. The soybean outlook for 2022/23 increased production, crush, and ending stocks. Soybean production is forecast at 4.35 billion bushels, up 33 million on higher yields. Higher yields in Iowa and Missouri account for most of the change in production. The season-average soybean price for 2022/23 is forecast at $14.00 per bushel, unchanged from last month. And the outlook for 2022/23 wheat this month shows stable supplies, increased domestic use, unchanged exports, and slightly lower ending stocks. The projected 2022/23 season-average farm price was unchanged at $9.20 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** No Change in House/Senate Ag Leadership Leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees will likely be the same in the next Congress. Who controls the majority in the House, along with the Senate, will have a significant say in the 2023 Farm Bill process. Ranking Republican Glenn GT Thompson was reelected Tuesday and seems poised to chair the committee, if Republicans can hold on to take the majority in the House. Meanwhile, Georgia voters reelected Democrat David Scott, the current House Agriculture Committee chairman, who seems likely to remain the top Democrat on the committee. Meanwhile, the Senate Agriculture Committee will likely see the same leadership return. Senator Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, was not up for re-election, and Arkansas voters reelected Republican John Boozman. The so-called red wave did not appear on election day and seems to give way to thin majorities for both the House and Senate. Final election results for all races may take a few more days. *********************************************************************************** Maryland and Missouri Approve Marijuana Legalization Voters in Maryland and Missouri approved ballot measures Tuesday to legalize and regulate marijuana for adult use. Similar measures were defeated in Arkansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Maryland Question 4 was referred to the ballot by the Legislature, while Missouri Amendment 3 was placed on the ballot via citizen initiative. Both measures make possession of limited amounts of cannabis legal for adults 21 and older and authorize the regulated production and sale of cannabis for adult use. Adult-use legalization laws have now been adopted in 21 states, D.C., and two U.S. territories, while an additional 16 states and two territories have legalized cannabis for medical use. VS Strategies is a national policy and public affairs firm based in Denver specializing in cannabis and drug policy. A VS Strategies spokesperson says, “Support for ending marijuana prohibition in the states is spreading much like it did at the end of alcohol prohibition.” *********************************************************************************** 2022 Farm Service Agency County Committee Elections Open This Week The Department of Agriculture began mailing ballots for the Farm Service Agency county and urban county committee elections this week. Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas for these committee members who make important decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux (DOO-sheh-know), says, "Voting in these elections is your opportunity to help ensure our county committees reflect the diversity of our agriculture." Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. A cooperating producer is someone who has provided information about their farming or ranching operation but may not have applied or received FSA program benefits. Producers who are not of legal voting age but supervise and conduct farming operations for an entire farm are eligible to vote in these elections. Producers and landowners must return ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by December 5, 2022, in order for those ballots to be counted. *********************************************************************************** SNAP Participation Varied Across States from 2019 to 2021 In fiscal year 2021, USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program served an average of 41.5 million people monthly. USDA’s Economic Research Service Wednesday reported the 2021 figure is an increase of about 5.8 million per month compared with fiscal year 2019. SNAP participation increased nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic to around 12.5 percent of the total U.S. population in 2021 from about 10.9 percent in 2019. In addition, SNAP participation data in February 2019 were artificially low because of the Federal Government shutdown at the time, impacting the average participation rate. SNAP participation also varied across states because of differences in program administration and economic conditions. Over this two-year period, 41 states saw an increase in SNAP participation, which ranged from a 0.1-percent increase in Mississippi to a 6.6-percent increase in the District of Columbia. In D.C., the percentage of participants increased to 20.9 percent in FY 2021 from 14.3 percent in FY 2019. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Encouraged to Keep the Stubble During No-Till November The Natural Resources Conservation Service encourages farmers to keep the tillage equipment in the machine shed during No-Till November. In a Wisconsin campaign first launched in 2017, the NRCS project is a conservation twist on the national cancer awareness No Shave November campaign that encourages people not to shave during the entire month. The NRCS campaign encourages farmers to "keep the stubble" on their harvested crop fields. The campaign has reached more than two million people nationally through Twitter and local media since 2017. Wisconsin NRCS Acting State Conservationist Jamie Keith, says, "No-till farming is a cornerstone soil health conservation practice, which also promotes water quality while saving farmers time and money.” One of the first soil health principles is “do not disturb.” Keith of Wisconsin adds, “This campaign is a fun way to remind farmers about the important relationship between tillage and soil health.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 10, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as the Labor Department's reports on consumer prices for October and weekly jobless claims, as well as the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by the Treasury Department's report on the federal budget in October at 1 p.m. Weather A strong storm system moving through the middle of the country on Thursday is bringing heavy snow and potential blizzard conditions to the Northern Plains. The cold front will sweep eastward and very cold air is filling in behind the system. While precipitation is heavy across the north, it is far less intense everywhere else and drought conditions continue to grow for southwestern Plains wheat. Tropical Storm Nicole is making landfall in central Florida early this morning and spreading heavy rain into the Southeast throughout the day.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 9, 2022 |
Results From Ag Lender Survey Released The top concern facing agricultural lenders going into 2023 is interest rate volatility, according to the 2022 Agricultural Lender Survey report. The report announced this week is produced jointly by the American Bankers Association and Farmer Mac. Nearly half of respondents ranked interest rate volatility among their top two concerns, up 35.5 percentage points from last year. While rising rates have helped bolster bank net interest margins, a combination of higher funding costs, fears of weakening loan demand and strong competition is expected to cut into rising yields. Most lenders reported overall farm profitability increased in the last year. Lenders expect conditions to deteriorate next year, with 52.6 percent projecting a decline in farm profitability in the next 12 months. However, this remains well below the 2016-2020 survey average of 82.3 percent. Jackson Takach (tack-ish), Chief Economist at Farmer Mac, says, “Looking ahead, ag lenders are keeping a close eye on expenses, as feed, fertilizer, fuel, and other input costs remain elevated." *********************************************************************************** New FMI Report Reveals Consumer Playbook for Foodservice at Retail The Food Industry Association released its Power of Foodservice at Retail 2022 report Tuesday. The report shows key insights into consumer demand for foodservice at retail, and comes at a critical time when 25 percent of shoppers are purchasing more grocery foodservice items than a year ago, surpassing dollar and unit sales volume from last year and 2019. The analysis suggests that food retailers can compete for consumers’ food dollars by maximizing value, nutrition and convenience, while clearly communicating these benefits to consumers. As inflation continues to affect Americans’ budgets, shoppers are preparing more meals at home – focusing on weekly meal planning and scratch cooking. Fifty-three percent say grocery foodservice items are a good value compared to eating at a restaurant or ordering takeout. A growing number of shoppers are ranking nutritional value highly when considering foodservice options, as 58 percent of consumers are interested in vegetables or other healthy options. However, only slightly more than a third are very satisfied with the nutrition levels of current foodservice offerings. *********************************************************************************** Grassley Presses Biden Administration on New Rural Mental Health Law Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa is requesting an update on the Biden administration’s efforts to implement the Seeding Rural Resilience Act. Grassley sent the request to the Department of Agriculture and Health and Human Services this week. The 2020 legislation is designed to curb the rising rate of suicide in rural areas – in the National Defense Authorization Act. The law requires interagency coordination between USDA and HHS. Grassley notes current economic conditions make timely implementation of the law even more important, adding, "The timely implementation of the Seeding Rural Resilience Act can provide life-saving resources to rural Americans." In February and again in June, Grassley asked Surgeon General Vivek Murthy about efforts he is taking to support implementation of the Seeding Rural Resilience Act, given the surgeon general’s emphasis on improving mental health. To date, Grassley has not received an answer from the surgeon general. *********************************************************************************** American Farmland Trust Releases Updated CaRPE Tool American Farmland Trust Tuesday released its updated Carbon Reduction Potential Evaluation Tool. The announcement includes the first of a series of briefs to help states estimate greenhouse gas emission reduction opportunities from the climate-smart cropland and grazing land management practices. The tool and state-specific briefs, which summarize the carbon benefits of climate-smart practices and provide state and federal policy recommendations to increase their adoption, are now available. These briefs are designed to help policymakers and land managers prioritize efforts for cost-effective climate benefits available from the agricultural sector. The tool has been available from AFT since the fall of 2020 and used by states to build working lands solutions into climate mitigation plans and state soil health efforts. Recent updates to the tool allow users to view data by USDA Farm Resource Regions and see results by counties and states and get the weighted emission reduction coefficient. Information on the free, publicly available tool and how to access it can be found at farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Organizations Launch Terrain Three farm credit organizations this week launched Terrain, a new source of agricultural industry analysis for U.S. farmers and ranchers. American AgCredit, Farm Credit Services of America, and Frontier Farm Credit partnered to offer Terrain to their customers. Curt Hudnutt, CEO of American AgCredit, says, “Serving farmers and ranchers – from everything between Iowa’s hog and corn farmers to California’s dairy and vineyard owners – is our shared mission Terrain’s experts share insights on trends and market-moving events through reports, videos, presentations and more. Mark Jensen, CEO of Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit, adds, “Terrain provides unique expertise to support the future of agriculture and rural communities.” Visit terrainag.com for Terrain’s current perspective on the impact of interest rates on agricultural loans, a discussion on how grain storage costs change with interest rates, and insights on the near-term risks for the hog farming sector. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Sweet Potatoes Enjoyed Around the World The United States is not the only country enjoying U.S. sweet potatoes. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, the United States was the top global exporter, by volume, of sweet potatoes in 2020. USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday announced U.S. sweet potato exports on a fresh-weight basis increased 1,157 percent from 2001 to 2021. And the annual value of exports grew from $14 million to $187 million in the same period. Promotion of the health benefits and food companies’ expanding sweet-potato offerings, such as sweet potato chips and fries, have helped fuel the expansion. Exports to the United Kingdom and European Union experienced strong year-over-year growth from the mid-2000s until 2018. The United States ranks seventh globally in sweet potato production, according to FAO. Over the past 20 years, top-producing U.S. states more than doubled sweet potato production to meet growing international and domestic demand.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 9, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production will be out at 9:30 a.m. CST, followed by USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports at 11 a.m. Traders will pay attention to this week's weather forecasts with significant temperature changes expected through the week. Outside markets also remain a frequent concern. Weather A sharp cold front is draped over the North-Central U.S. Wednesday morning where scattered showers are building up ahead of a system that is pushing through the Intermountain West. That system will emerge into the Plains Wednesday night and increase precipitation over northern areas, turning a lot of it over to heavy snow in the Dakotas by Thursday morning. Strong winds will accompany the system as well. Tropical Storm Nicole is headed toward Florida with landfall Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, possibly as a hurricane. Regardless, heavy rain will move into Florida that is still trying to recover from Hurricane Ian in late September.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 8, 2022 |
September Pork Exports Continue Upward Trend; Pace Cools for Beef U.S. pork exports topped year-ago totals for the second consecutive month in September, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. September beef exports were below last year for the first time in 2022, but exports remain on a record pace through the first three quarters of the year. Pork exports reached 222,202 metric tons in September, up one percent from a year ago. Export value increased nine percent to $664.8 million – the highest since June 2021. Through September, pork exports were 13 percent below last year at 1.94 million metric tons, valued at $5.57 billion. September beef exports totaled 115,487 metric tons, valued at $890.3 million, down seven percent from a year ago in both volume and value. For the first nine months of 2022, beef exports were still four percent above last year at 1.12 million metric tons. Export value reached $9.12 billion, up 20 percent and already achieving the second-highest total for any calendar year, trailing only the 2021 record of $10.58 billion. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Industry Releases Economic Impact Study The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and United Egg Producers recently released an updated economic impact study. The study highlights the poultry industry's positive impact on jobs, wages, and federal and state revenue in the United States. A dynamic and integral part of the national economy, the U.S. poultry industry provides more than two million jobs, $125 billion in wages, $555 billion in economic activity and $33 billion in government revenue. Specifically, the study found the chicken industry provided $417 billion in economic activity, while the turkey industry provides $99.5 billion, and the egg industry provides $44.7 billion. John Starkey, president of the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, says, “We are pleased to continue providing this valuable tool across the industry that shows the positive economic impact the poultry industry has on our nation and communities.” The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association funded the economic impact study. *********************************************************************************** California Top Purchaser of Crop Insurance for Specialty Crops New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows California farmers purchase the most Federal Crop Insurance policies for Specialty Crops. California led the country in policies for specialty crops in 2020, followed by Florida, Washington, North Dakota, and Minnesota. The states also produce the most fruits and vegetables, California, Florida, and Washington, and specialty field crops, from North Dakota and Minnesota. Specialty crops are a commodity group which includes fresh or dried fruits; tree nuts; vegetables; pulse crops such as dry beans, peas, and lentils; and horticulture nursery crops. California’s policies reflect the variety of specialty crops produced in the state, including almonds, grapes, oranges, walnuts, and raisins. Most North Dakota policies cover field crops—dry beans and dry peas. In 2020, specialty crops accounted for 25 percent of the value of U.S. crop production. Crop Insurance policies can mitigate risks by providing payments if insured crops experience losses caused by naturally occurring events and market conditions. *********************************************************************************** Plant Based Products Council Announces First Annual Industry Conference The Plant Based Products Council Monday announced its first annual conference. The PBPC 2023 Annual Conference: Circular Solutions, will explore the innovations, business models, and policies influencing the entire lifecycle of bioproducts in the promotion of a more circular economy. Attendees will hear from and network with industry leaders, policymakers, brands, and experts through panels, keynotes, networking sessions, and more. Plant Based Products Council Executive Director Jessica Bowman says, "We are thrilled to launch our annual conference convening leading experts and innovators to discuss their role in this emerging industry and what solutions, challenges, and opportunities lie ahead." The conference is planned for March 27-29, 2023, in Washington, D.C. The Plant Based Products Council is an advocacy association working toward a more circular bioeconomy through greater adoption of renewable, plant-based materials supported by appropriate end-of-life infrastructure. Members of the organization include ADM, Cargill, and the National Corn Growers Association. *********************************************************************************** High Diesel Prices Put Strain on Farmers With diesel prices more than $1.50 per gallon high than this time last year, the American Farm Bureau Federation calls on the Biden administration to bring more domestic supply online, A ban on U.S. imports of petroleum from Russia, lower domestic production capacity, and seasonal demand are all contributing to higher costs. Russia provided 20 percent of the petroleum imported into the U.S. in 2021, but that was halted after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Further, since 2019, domestic diesel production capacity has dropped by 180,000 barrels per day. Several plants closed during the coronavirus pandemic and are not yet back online. AFBF President Zippy Duvall, in a letter to President Joe Biden, says, "High diesel prices are severely impacting our farmers and ranchers, causing increased costs to consumers, and adding to food insecurity." National diesel prices are expected to average $4.86 per gallon through the end of the year, according to government projections, and $4.29 per gallon in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Rise Again For the first time in the last month, the nation’s average gas price increased, rising 6.2 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon. The national average is down 11.5 cents from a month ago but stands 37.8 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 3.4 cents in the last week and stands at $5.32 per gallon. National diesel supply remains tight, but supplies of diesel did see a slight rise last week. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Brief outages at a limited number of stations are possible, but with refineries continuing to churn out product and maintenance wrapping up, I’m optimistic the situation will improve.” Oil saw a strong rally last week as inventories continued to decline and Strategic Petroleum Reserve releases slowed down. Last week’s report from the Energy Information Administration showed a notable drop in oil inventories of 3.1 million barrels, while the Strategic Petroleum Reserve saw a drop of 1.9 million barrels.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 8, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There will be few government reports early on Tuesday as the mid-term elections take place. DTN will be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal and any export sales news, along with any changes in South American weather. Weather A system continues to move through the Northern Plains on Tuesday, dragging a cold front with a band of snow behind it in Montana. In the Plains, winds are increasing and spotty showers will develop from Texas to Minnesota, more consistent farther north toward the front. A stronger storm continues to build out in the West with heavy precipitation in drought areas in California and Nevada. Dry and warm conditions for eastern areas of the country may want to get fieldwork completed before this system moves east later this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 7, 2022 |
Ag Groups Ask Congress to Prevent Potential Rail Strike Over 190 members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group want Congress to prepare to help prevent a railroad strike or lockout. Beef Magazine says a strike or lockout would shut down all rail-dependent facilities and result in devastating consequences to both national and global food security. The Biden administration successfully helped broker an agreement between the National Railway Labor Conference and 12 labor unions on September 15. But two unions voted against the agreement while four others continue reviewing it. The food and agriculture groups sent a letter to congressional leadership saying action will be necessary if the parties fail to reach an agreement. “Resolution of the dispute before November 19 is necessary to ensure uninterrupted rail service,” the letter says. “Adding urgency to the matter is critical inputs, and agricultural products like ammonia could be embargoed starting November 14.” They say a rail strike would be “catastrophic” to the U.S. economy. *********************************************************************************** Food Price Index Virtually Unchanged in October The FAO Food Price Index averaged 135.9 in October, virtually unchanged from September. The index of every commodity group except for cereals was down month-to-month. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization says a higher Cereal Price Index countered drops in the indices for vegetable oils, dairy, meat, and sugar. With the latest update, the food price index has dropped almost 24 points from its peak in March but remains 2.7 points above October 2021. The Cereal Price Index averaged 152.3 points, 4.4 points higher than in September and 15.2 points above the same time last year. The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 150.1 points, down 2.4 points month-on-month and nearly 20 percent below last year’s level. The Dairy Price Index averaged 140.1 in October, down 2.5 points from September and the fourth-consecutive monthly drop. The Meat Price Index dropped for the fourth month in a row, averaging 118.4 points in October. *********************************************************************************** Mississippi River Shipments Down 78 Percent The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service says the number of grain barges being unloaded in New Orleans during September and October dropped significantly. An AMS report says the number of barges is 20-30 percent lower than in recent years. The slowdown coincides with river closures and restrictions on barge companies that reduced the bar tow. Typically, 30-40 barges can move down the river together, and the new restriction says no more than 25. The tonnage movement has been even weaker. Since September, tonnage going through locks was down more than 40 percent below recent years. The significant decline in tonnage is consistent with reports of how barges have been forced to reduce their draft. Barges are normally loaded to an 11-12-foot-deep draft during the fall. However, companies started imposing nine-foot barge draft restrictions in October. That can lead to a reduction of 10,000-15,000 bushels per barge. Tonnage appeared to pick up in October. *********************************************************************************** GAO Report is a “Gift” to Refiners The General Accounting Office released a report on the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision-making when it comes to small refinery exemptions from the Renewable Fuel Standard. The report was first requested three years ago by renewable fuel supporters in Congress. But much has changed since then, and biofuel groups say the report is obsolete. Renewable Fuels Association President Geoff Cooper says the economic analysis can only be described as a creative and obscure acrobatic routine. In the summer of 2019, a group of renewable fuel supporters in the House and Senate asked for an investigation into two former EPA administrators. “More than three years later and less than a week before midterm elections, the GAO puts out a shoddy report that’s friendly to oil refiners and tries to answer questions no one ever asked,” Cooper says. “After all that, the report says small refiners’ costs of compliance are 0.5 percent above larger refiners.” *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Leaders Graduate from Women’s Boot Camp Fifteen farm and ranch women leaders graduated from the fall session of the Women’s Communication Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau. The four-day course featured hands-on sessions related to public speaking, working with the media, and messaging. Graduates will use that training in a variety of ways, including participating in local media opportunities to support Farm Bureau’s policy work. They can also share information with elected officials and join social media campaigns that spotlight modern agriculture. “The women leaders who completed this training will use their skills in their communities and for Farm Bureau on local, state, and national levels,” says Isabella Chism, Chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee. “Consumer interest in food and how its produced remains high, which means effective communication for agriculture is more important than ever.” A spring session of the boot camp will be held April 3-6, 2023, with applications opening in December. *********************************************************************************** NCC Delivers Comments on Proposed Salmonella Framework The National Chicken Council delivered public comments on a proposed regulatory framework for salmonella in poultry products during a virtual meeting with the Food Safety and Inspection Service. The NCC comments addressed each of the components the agency is considering as part of a new strategy. Food safety is a top priority for the broiler industry, and NCC supports changes in regulations that are based on sound science, and robust data, and are demonstrated to positively impact public health. “The industry is and should be expected to control potential pathogens, but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to doing so,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, NCC’s Senior Vice President of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs. “in a time of extreme inflation coupled with ongoing food security challenges, a command-and-control approach will do nothing to improve public health and remove chicken from the meat case.” The NCC wants a more collaborative effort to promote food safety.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 7, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets There will be few government reports early on Monday, followed on Tuesday by the mid-term elections. DTN will be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal and any export sales news, along with any changes in South American weather. Weather A ridge of high pressure is keeping most of the country east of the Rockies warm on Monday outside of the Northern Plains. A few spotty showers will be possible across the Southern Plains through the Tennessee Valley, but most areas are going to stay dry. That is not true for the West where a deep trough is building in the region. A strong low-pressure center is also forming up around Montana, producing some stronger winds and spreading a little snow to the Northern Plains, but the heavier precipitation will be up in the Canadian Prairies.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 4, 2022 |
Russia Resumes Participation in Black Sea Grain Deal Russia resumed participating in the Black Sea Grain Export Agreement four days after suspending it due to an alleged Ukraine attack on Russian ships in the Black Sea. Reuters says that brought immediate relief from pressure on food prices and eased worries over a renewed global food shortage. The United Nations, a key sponsor in the deal to help free up Ukrainian grain exports, says Moscow is asking for follow-up on the parts of the deal intended to help Russian food and fertilizer exports. Russian officials want more accomplished to make sure the country can export its enormous food and fertilizer output despite Western sanctions. Russia’s agricultural exports don’t specifically fall under sanctions imposed by the U.S., European Union, and others, but they’re impeded by restrictions on its financial, logistical, and insurance sectors. The initiative was agreed to in July for 120 days. The export deal expires on November 19. *********************************************************************************** Biofuel Groups File Motion to Intervene in SRE Lawsuit Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, the American Coalition for Ethanol, and National Farmers Union filed a motion to intervene to support the Environmental Protection Agency in the D.C. District Court of Appeals. The groups filed the motion to support the agency’s decision to deny 69 petitions from refineries seeking small refinery exemptions from the Renewable Fuel Standard program for one or more compliance years between 2016 and 2021. The groups say the decision helped to strengthen U.S. energy security, protect the climate, and delivered relief at the pump during record-high gas prices. “Now, certain refiners want to reverse this process and turn back the clock to an era of gross mismanagement and abuse of the SRE provisions of the RFS program,” they say in the motion. “The RFS is back on track and holding refiners accountable to ensure lower prices and cleaner options at the pump for American families.” *********************************************************************************** Cow-Calf Operations Vary in Adopting Rotational Grazing Rotational grazing is a frequently discussed livestock management practice with a wide variety of public and private benefits. Little information has been available on the adoption rate of rotational grazing, so the Economic Research Service at USDA issued a report on the subject. Data shows that 40 percent of cow-calf operations report using rotational grazing. However, just 40 percent of that number use intensive rotational grazing. Operations that retain the majority of their calves through the initial feeder stage for later sale to feedlots are the most likely to adopt intensive rotational grazing. Rotational grazing operations are more likely than continuous grazing operations to participate in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program. ERS says that rotational grazing is more common in the Northern Plains, Western Corn Belt, and Appalachian regions, where about one-half of those operations use the practice. Most grazing systems are simple, with five or fewer paddocks. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Accepting Nominations for the Environmental Stewardship Program The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is accepting applications until March 10 for the 2023 Environmental Stewardship Award. The yearly award recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of U.S. cattle producers. “Cattle producers are actively working to protect and improve the environment because they know environmental stewardship and good business go together,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein (SHEEF-el-byne). Any group, individual, or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, although nominees may be involved in preparing the application. Along with a typed application, one nomination letter and three letters of recommendation highlighting the nominee’s leadership in conservation are required. Nominees don’t have to be NCBA members but should support the objectives of their state and national organizations. Regional winners will be announced at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention. For info or to download a nomination packet, go to environmentalstewardship.org. *********************************************************************************** SMART Act Would Double Investments in Ag Export Programs The Coalition to Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports applauds the introduction of the Supporting Market Access to Reinvigorate Trade Act of 2022. The SMART Act would double funding for USDA’s Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program. Both are critical to expanding global market access for U.S.-produced agricultural exports. A recent economic study predicted that doubling funding for these programs would generate an additional $44.4 billion in American agricultural exports from 2024 to 2029. “Reinvestment in export promotion programs is needed now,” says Robbie Minnich, Coalition Chair. “USDA is forecasting an agricultural trade deficit in 2023 for the first time in years because the growth in American farm exports is not keeping pace with imports, signaling a more competitive global landscape.” Geopolitical conflict is making the future of trade more uncertain, so the coalition says the additional investment is an essential piece of policy to reinforce America’s competitive standing overseas. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattlemen Applaud Funding to Expand Local Meat Processing Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced $73 million in funding for the first round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. The funds will get used to increase competition across the cattle marketplace and support increased producer opportunities, and the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association appreciates the USDA’s work. “We’re pleased to see the breadth and scope of projects supported through the funding,” says USCA President Brooke Miller. “The importance of this federal investment in our nation’s independent meat producers is evident when looking at individual projects.” As an example, they point to Upper Iowa Beef which received a grant that will expand its processing capacity by over 50 percent while creating new jobs for the community and premium revenue opportunities for independent producers. “These federal dollars can help usher in a new era of U.S. food production,” Miller says. “We’re encouraged by the announcement and look forward to further rounds of funding.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 4, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets DTN will be watching the non-farm payrolls report, along with new unemployment numbers. We will also be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal and any export sales news, along with any changes in South American weather. Weather A cold front will pick up some steam with increasing showers and thunderstorms on Friday across the Mississippi Valley. That includes some heavier rain potential as well. Some of the thunderstorms across eastern Texas and Oklahoma into Arkansas and Louisiana could be severe with all threats being possible. Temperatures are falling dramatically behind the front by some 30 to 40 degrees, but are only seasonably cold ahead of the front. Winds on both sides of the front continue to be breezy with gusts generally in the 30 to 40 mph range.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 3, 2022 |
Vilsack Announces Funding to Increase Meat Processing Capacity Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced a $73 million investment through the first round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. The funding supports 21 grant projects to expand meat and poultry processing capacity, increasing competition, supporting producer income, and strengthening the food supply chain to lower costs, according to USDA. Vilsack says, "These investments create more opportunities for farmers and ranchers to get a fair price, while strengthening supply chains." In addition, the Administration is investing $75 million for eight projects through the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program and more than $75 million for four meat and poultry-related projects through the Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan program. The program was designed to support capacity expansion projects in concert with other private and public finance tools. Additional announcements are expected in the coming weeks. USDA will also soon begin taking applications for a new phase to deploy an additional $225 million investment. *********************************************************************************** Regionality of Avian Flu Outbreak Limits Losses in Broiler Production USDA's Economic Research Service reports highly pathogenic avian influenza in 2022 has major regionality differences. The outbreak has had relatively little impact on the broiler industry based on the volume of broiler meat produced in the United States. HPAI was detected in Indiana in February 2022 for the first time nationally since 2015 and was soon confirmed at multiple commercial poultry operations. Flocks at operations with detected infections were depopulated to prevent further spread of HPAI. Because of the limited overlap of the 2022 HPAI outbreak with broiler-producing regions, commercial flocks in the top four broiler-producing States – North Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas, and Alabama – have largely avoided HPAI. Of the 43.8 million commercial birds depopulated as of October 7, 2022, 2.3 million were meat-producing broilers. This represents less than a tenth of one percent of typical annual broiler slaughter. The effect on broiler production during the 2015 outbreak was also relatively small. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Higher-Priced Turkeys on the Holiday Menu A new analysis from CoBank suggests consumers will see smaller and higher-priced turkeys this Thanksgiving season. After grappling with staff shortages, plant closures, and supply issues, the turkey industry has been hit by yet another problem in 2022: the worst Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza outbreak in U.S. history. HPAI leads to the depopulation of birds, but is also impacting turkey size. The average slaughter weight is below the three-year average. However, there will be a sufficient number of birds. Turkeys will be available, but they will be more expensive and probably a bit smaller than what home chefs are used to. Seasonal cold storage whole bird inventory volumes are at their lowest level since 2006. Wholesale, frozen turkeys are currently selling in the $1.70 per pound range, about 30 percent higher than last year. Fresh, boneless breast meat is trading at $6.50 per pound, a 350 percent increase versus last fall. *********************************************************************************** USDA Opens 2023 Ag Outlook Forum Registration The Department of Agriculture recently opened registration for the 99th Agricultural Outlook Forum. The 2023 event is back in-person, held February 23-24, at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. Additionally, all sessions will be live-streamed, and participants can attend the event in person or virtually. Registration is required for both virtual and in-person attendance, however, there is no cost to attending the Forum virtually. The 2023 event will feature comments from USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer as he unveils USDA's initial forecast for the agricultural economy, commodity markets, and trade in 2023. Additionally, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will deliver the event's keynote address. More than 100 subject matter experts, executives and academics will discuss the largest issues impacting agriculture today and potential solutions, including supply chain challenges, climate-smart agriculture and more. Interested participants can register to attend, in-person or virtually, on the USDA website. More than 4,500 people attended the 2022 virtual Forum. *********************************************************************************** National Turkey Federation Executive to lead Fisheries Institute The National Fisheries Institute this week named Lisa Wallenda Picard as incoming President and CEO of the association. Picard joins NFI from the National Turkey Federation, where she is the Senior Vice President for Policy, Trade and Regulatory Affairs. In January of this year, NFI’s President and CEO John Connelly announced plans to retire in early 2023, prompting a nationwide search. NFI leadership calls Picard a "dynamic leader with expertise in food safety and trade relations." Picard joined the National Turkey Federation in 2011 and previously was the Chief of Staff for USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service. Before joining FSIS in 2002, Picard served as National Director of Public Relations for Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey Circus. She also spent several years lobbying on animal welfare and agriculture issues and will join NFI in mid-December. Incorporated in 1945, the National Fisheries Institute is the largest seafood trade association in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Culver’s Launches Farmer Appreciation Contest Culver's this week launched "To farmers With Love," a farmer appreciation contest. The contest is an opportunity for individuals to nominate a farmer in their life to win a generous prize package as part of Culver's Thank You Farmers Project. Fifteen winning farmers will receive a $500 cash prize, Culver's gift cards and swag. Additionally, to demonstrate Culver's dedication to supporting the future of agriculture, the winning farmers will also receive a $575 donation to their local FFA chapters in their names. Culver's marketing and public relations manager, Alison Demmer, says, "We're thrilled to be able to express our appreciation for these deserving farmers in such a personalized way." Through the Thank You Farmers Project, Culver's has donated over $3.5 million to agricultural education since 2013. Those interested in nominating a farmer can visit www.culvers.com to learn more and complete the nomination form. The contest runs from now through November 15.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 3, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets DTN will be watching initial jobless claims, trade deficit and factory orders. Fed chairman Jerome Powell's comments regarding future rate hikes should be released Thursday. We will also be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal and any export sales news, along with any changes in weather. Weather A cold front moving into the middle of the country on Thursday does not have much precipitation with it early Thursday morning. It is expected to get much more active later Thursday as widespread showers and thunderstorms develop from west Texas up through Minnesota. Storms on the southern end from Kansas southward are likely to be more isolated but could be stronger with severe potential possible. It remains very warm ahead of the front with good fieldwork conditions. The showers will be skipping over much of the southwestern Plains as drought continues to hold its grip on next year's winter wheat crop.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 2, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets DTN will be watching for the results of the ADP employment report, the Federal Reserve announcements on rates, and Fed chairman Jerome Powell's comments. We will also be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal, any export sales news, and any changes in weather. Weather A deep trough is building west of the Rockies on Wednesday. It is inducing a low-pressure area over the Northern Plains and southern Canada, with most of the precipitation staying west of the Rockies or in the Canadian Prairies. Stronger winds are expected in the Plains and Upper Midwest, which will lead to increased wildfire risks for areas that are very dry. It will also lead to warm temperatures for most places east of the Rockies and some high temperatures may be broken in the Upper Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 2, 2022 |
Ag Economy Barometer Declines Again Farmer sentiment weakened again in October as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell to a reading of 102, down ten points compared to a month earlier. Both of the barometer’s sub-indices, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, declined this month. The Current Conditions Index dipped eight points to a reading of 101, while the Future Expectations Index dropped 11 points to a reading of 102. This month's weakness in farmer sentiment pushes the index back near levels observed in late 2015 and early 2016 when farm income was sharply lower than in the last two years. USDA estimates U.S. inflation-adjusted net farm income averaged across 2021 and 2022 is more than 40 percent above the 2015-2016 average. Producers are concerned about the impact of U.S. interest rate policy on their farms and the ag economy, with over one-third choosing it as the most important policy issue. *********************************************************************************** Meat Sector Releases First-Ever Data Report on Environment The North American Meat Institute released a report Tuesday that sets transparent baselines that will allow the industry to measure progress and verify contributions to global climate goals. With 100 percent of the Meat Institute’s large U.S. members, those with more than 2,000 employees, submitting data, the report covers an estimated 90 percent of meat sold in the United States by volume. Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts commented, “98 percent of American households purchase meat, putting our sector undoubtedly at the center of solutions for healthy diets, healthy communities, and a healthy planet for generations to come.” Supporting the organization’s commitment to measure and fill the “protein gap” for needy families by 2025, 78 percent of reporting companies donate money or products to food banks and charities. Meanwhile, 82 percent of reporting facilities are covered by a company commitment to minimize packaging waste, and 71 percent are covered by a company commitment to reduce food waste. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek Oversight Answers Regarding Climate Smart Commodities Program The Congressional Western Caucus wants information regarding oversight of the Climate-Smart Commodities pilot program. In a letter this week to the Biden administration, the caucus outlined concerns regarding the program, which was created with no direction from Congress. The lawmakers want answers to questions about how the Department of Agriculture created the program, weighed submitted proposals, and intends to ensure the federal funding does not displace private sector investments. The letter states, "We are dismayed by the lack of transparency and congressional consultation throughout the development of this process," further adding, "In no way can $3.5 billion be considered a 'pilot program.'" USDA awarded $2.8 billion in funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation for the pilot program with plans for an expected second tranche that would bring total funding for 2022 to $3.5 billion. Representatives Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican, and Andy Harris, a Maryland Republican, led the effort. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Confirms First Fall HPAI Detection The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Wright County, Iowa, this week. The virus was found in a commercial layer flock, and this is the first confirmed case of HPAI in Wright County in 2022, located in north-central Iowa. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “We have been preparing for the possibility of additional outbreaks and are working closely with USDA and producers to eradicate this disease from our state.” Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present a public health concern. *********************************************************************************** North Carolina, New York, Lead Noninsured Specialty Crop Assistance Applications New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows specialty crop growers in New York and North Carolina lead the nation in USDA's Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program applications. Operated by the Farm Service Agency, the program covered about 115 million total acres in 2017. Specialty crops, which include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture nursery crops, are often grown in areas where there are suitable soil and weather conditions. In 2020, North Carolina and New York had the program's highest number of specialty crop applications. Each State had more than 5,000 applications. Across the U.S., program applications were made for 147 different specialty crops in 2020. USDA operates various crop insurance and disaster aid programs to help producers. But when sufficient data is not available to create an actuarially sound insurance product, then producers can apply to the USDA, Farm Service Agency's Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program. *********************************************************************************** USDA Rural Development Observes Native American Heritage Month USDA’s Rural Development undersecretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small announced Tuesday USDA is renewing its commitment to strengthen its partnerships with Tribes and Tribal communities. The commitment seeks to ensure Native people have access to the critical infrastructure and economic resources they need to thrive. The announcement is one of many ways USDA is observing Native American Heritage Month. Torres Small says, "We celebrate the countless contributions of American Indians and Alaska Natives and honor the vital influence they have had on the advancement of our nation." USDA is issuing a policy statement that recommits the agency to upholding the agency's Trust responsibility to Tribal communities, respecting Tribal sovereignty by protecting Tribal treaty rights and fostering economic and cultural prosperity. Further, the statement commits to engaging with Tribes through timely and meaningful consultation on USDA’s policies and programs, and reflecting on the shared and complex history between Tribes and the federal government.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 1, 2022 |
Russia Pulls Out of Black Sea Grain Export Deal Russia resumed its blockade of grain shipments exiting Ukraine on Sunday after announcing the country is pulling out of the grain deal brokered, in part, by the United Nations. The Hagstrom Report says the amount of grain available for global markets and possible price increases are concerns getting raised around the world. U.S. President Joe Biden called the blockade resumption an “outrageous act.” Russia pulled out of the deal because it says Ukraine staged a significant drone attack over the weekend against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet which is off the coast of Crimea (cry-MEE-ah). Ukraine says the attack didn’t happen, and Russia simply mishandled its own weapons. The U.N. and officials from Turkey were trying to convince Russia to bring back the deal it agreed to earlier this year. The European Union’s foreign policy chief says Russia’s decision puts the much-needed exports of grain and fertilizers to address the global food crisis at risk. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission Underway in East Africa USDA Deputy Secretary Jewell Bronaugh arrived in Nairobi, Kenya, to kick off an agribusiness trade mission to Kenya and Tanzania. The U.S. delegation includes representatives of 32 agribusinesses and farm organizations hoping to establish trade relationships and explore opportunities for American agricultural exports to East Africa. Kenya is the economic, financial, and transportation hub for Central and East Africa. “It’s my great pleasure to lead this trade mission,” Bronaugh says. “Kenya and Tanzania are important and growing markets, and I look forward to strengthening our ties with both nations while expanding opportunities for U.S. agricultural and food product exports.” Trade mission participants will engage directly with potential importers, receive in-depth market briefings, and participate in site visits. Bronaugh also says this is an exciting opportunity for U.S. agribusinesses and state representatives to learn firsthand about the local markets and build strong connections with their future partners in the countries of East Africa. *********************************************************************************** Deere Moving Production from China to Louisiana John Deere announced it is investing $29.8 million to begin manufacturing harvesters in the United States instead of China. Louisiana’s state development agency says the agricultural manufacturer is expanding an already-existing factory in the state and adding another 70 jobs. “This investment by Deere and Company demonstrates not only the strength of Louisiana’s manufacturing sector but the resilience and recovery of the Bayou Region,” says Louisiana’s Governor John Edwards. Deere will produce medium-chassis cotton harvesters to replace the models currently built in China. The new jobs will pay an average salary of $47,472 a year and add to Deere’s existing workforce of 311 employees in the state. “The employees at our Louisiana factory have demonstrated remarkable resiliency and commitment to our customers,” says a Deere spokesman, describing how workers restored operations after Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana last year. Deere says it’s investing in the community, the state, and current staff. *********************************************************************************** Another Railroad Workers Union Votes Against Rail Settlement Another American railroad workers’ union voted against a contract settlement with railroads. Over 300 trade associations covering local, state, and national-level groups wrote to the White House asking for intervention to keep railroads running. The letter to President Biden and officials says, “We’re writing to ask you to help ensure that the tentative agreement you helped broker between railroads and their worker unions is ratified by both sides.” Two unions rejected the agreement, and the groups are concerned that others may follow. The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen is the latest union to vote against ratifying the agreement, with 60 percent of its members voting no. The union says, “BRS members spoke loudly and clearly that their contributions are worth more, particularly when it comes to the basic right of time off for illnesses.” The trade groups say if more unions vote no, a strike could shut down the entire rail system. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Officer Team Elected at the 95th Convention The 2022-2023 National FFA Officer team was elected during the final session of the 95th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis. Students from Illinois, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia were chosen as the National FFA Officers. Andrew Seibel of Virginia is the new national president. Jessica Herr of Pennsylvania was elected the national secretary. Ryan Williamson of Texas is the western region vice president, and McKenna Clifton of North Carolina is the southern region VP. Karstyn Cantrell of Oklahoma is the central region vice president, and Gracie Murphy of Illinois is the east region VP. These members were selected from 35 candidates vying for the honor. Throughout their year of service to the organization, the officers interact with business and industry leaders, thousands of FFA members and teachers, and many other groups and individuals. The National FFA Organization currently has more than 850,000 student members in almost 9,000 chapters. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Say Cover Crops Are On 40 Percent of Cropland A new USDA survey says cover crops are more popular than first thought. Growers who responded to the survey say they’re using cover crops on 40 percent of their cropland in 2022. Successful Farming says that hints at a sizable increase from the 15.4 million acres of cover crops listed in the 2017 Census of Agriculture. The USDA’s Conservation Practice Adoption Motivations 2021 Report says a large number of farmers, 59 percent, use cover crops on their farms. That’s from a survey of 34,000 farmers that ran from May through September. Farmers say they used cover crops on 40 percent of their cropland. Earlier this month, the Ag Economy Barometer, which surveys large-scale farmers, said 57 percent of respondents used cover crops on at least some of their land, a jump up from 52 percent in 2021. Half of those farmers say they sowed cover crops on 25 percent or less of their land.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 1, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets DTN will be watching for the results of the S & P Manufacturing PMI, job openings, and construction spending. Even more importantly, we will be watching for more developments on the Ukraine export deal and any export sales news. Weather Most of the country east of the Rockies will enjoy a day of warmth and dryness, favorable for fieldwork. A system is brewing in the West, though, where widespread showers will fill in across much of the area into Wednesday along with falling temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 31, 2022 |
Mexico Moving Ahead on 2024 GMO Corn Ban Mexico appears to be moving ahead with its plan to ban GMO corn imports by 2024. Reuters says Mexico is considering the possibility of direct agreements with farmers in the U.S., Argentina, and Brazil. Mexico’s deputy agriculture minister says the 2024 ban on GM corn won’t be amended in any way. U.S. yellow corn imports are used primarily for livestock feed in Mexico. Victor Suarez (SWAH-rez) says Mexico will cut its imports of U.S. yellow corn by half when the ban takes effect via increasing domestic production. To fill any remaining gap, Mexico will try to make deals with farmers in other countries to grow non-GMO corn and sell it to Mexico. “There are many alternatives to importing non-GMO yellow corn from the United States,” Suarez says. These moves appear to go back on the promise from Mexico’s ag minister that Mexico wouldn’t limit imports of GMO yellow corn from the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Pushing Eastward Roughly six of every ten acres of land in the U.S. is in some level of drought. The Weekly Drought Monitor says arid conditions now stretch from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Pacific Coast in the western U.S. Conditions grew worse in the Ohio Valley while warm weather combined with below-normal precipitation to further dry the Midwest. The University of Nebraska’s National Drought Mitigation Center says the extent of the dry conditions is on par with 2012 as drought expanded across more than half of the states, particularly in the Midwest and Southeast. Drought also deepened in the Central Plains, where stock ponds for cattle remain low to nonexistent. Pastures are providing marginal feed, and most producers have to supplement their cattle feed. While the growing season for field crops is done, drought still affects the winter wheat crop, which makes up most of America’s wheat production. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Diesel Supplies are Shrinking Rapidly America has a shortage of diesel supplies on hand and it’s putting pressure on suppliers to get more into the fuel supply. The Start Magazine says a shortage is spreading in the eastern United States and has prompted at least one supplier to initiate emergency protocols. Mansfield Energy is a fuel supplier that says conditions are rapidly devolving, so they require a 72-hour notice for deliveries to secure fuel and freight. Diesel is the fuel that trucks, trains, and ships fill their tanks with to move goods around the country and across the globe. Supplies are tight partly because Russian diesel imports are banned in the U.S. Andrew Hunter, a senior economist with Capital Economics, says, “U.S. refining capacity has fallen over the past few years, which doesn’t help.” Diesel prices hit a record high of $5.81 per gallon in June, and prices could go higher if the winter is colder than expected. *********************************************************************************** Over 75 Percent of Soybean, Cotton, and Corn Acres are Genetically Engineered USDA’s Economic Research Service says genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the U.S. for major field crops in 1996, and adoption rates increased rapidly. By 2008, more than 50 percent of U.S. corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with genetically engineered seeds. The total acres with GE seeds has grown even further, with now more than 90 percent of U.S. corn, upland cotton, and soybeans produced using GE varieties. Genetically engineered crops are broadly classified as herbicide-tolerant (HT), insect-resistant (Bt), or a combination of the two. While other traits like virus and fungus resistance, drought tolerance, and enhanced protein oil or vitamin content have been developed, HT and Bt traits are the most commonly used in U.S. crop production. Herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, but most of the GE acres are planted to the three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** Biodiesel Plays a Big Role in California’s GHG Drop California released its Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report for 2020 which showed a 16 percent decrease in transportation carbon emissions. Clean Fuels Alliance America says that success was due in part to increasing the use of biodiesel and renewable diesel. The state’s analysis shows the percentage of biodiesel and renewable diesel in California’s fuel supply grew from 0.4 percent in 2011 to almost 21 percent in 2020 through the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. California Air Resources Board data says biodiesel and renewable diesel generated 44 percent of the LCFS credits in 2020. “As California works to continue reducing carbon emissions, it’s relying on increased production, import, and blending of biodiesel and renewable diesel,” says Clean Fuels’ CEO Donnell Rehagen (REE-hay-gen). Without biodiesel and renewable diesel, California’s tailpipe fossil CO2 would have been 15 million metric tons higher in 2020. The reduction equals taking 3.2 million cars off the road in 2020. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Promotes New VP of Domestic Policy The National Pork Producers Council says Kelly Cushman is its new vice president of domestic policy. In the newly-created position, Cushman will oversee U.S. government engagement, advocacy, and lobbying efforts for the U.S. pork industry. “Kelly comes to NPPC with a proven track record as an effective leader and political strategist, developing and executing government affairs outreach programs,” says NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. Cushman is a public affairs and communications professional with over 25 years of experience. She has a blended background of political, government agency, and corporate experience. “I’m excited to support America’s pig farmers who prioritize the health and well-being of their animals to provide high-quality and affordable products,” Cushman says. “I look forward to expanding and integrating NPPC’s government affairs engagement in Washington, D.C., and across the country. Cushman has a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from Clemson and a master’s in environmental science and policy from Johns Hopkins.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 31, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and any news, especially from Ukraine. USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT will give another indication of how soybeans are moving on the river. USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. will be watched for row crop harvest progress and winter wheat emergence. Financial traders are apt to be cautious with nearly everyone expecting another rate hike Wednesday. Weather Mild to very warm temperatures and mostly dry conditions for most areas on Monday will make for some good trick-or-treating weather. A few showers are going through the eastern Midwest and Southeast on Monday, but the coverage is rather low. Another system is moving into the Pacific Northwest, however, and will be the start of a battle in the middle of the country later this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 28, 2022 |
Survey Shows Farmer Concerns About Carbon Markets A new report from Farm Journal shows farmer perspectives and concerns on pathways and barriers to participating in carbon markets. A majority of farmers surveyed revealed significant concerns about overcoming technical and financial roadblocks to having success in the carbon markets. Producers worry that the benefits won’t be worth the cost, ongoing compliance regulations will be burdensome and that existing ag practices they already have in place on their operations won’t be fairly compensated. Farm Journal says the initial findings show that even the most “carbon-curious” farmers are saying that participating in current market conditions would require too much time, effort, and resources without fair returns on those investments. Farmers are also concerned about their data and whether it will get handled appropriately or will be difficult to collect. After several years, 97 percent of farmers aren’t ready to participate in carbon markets, but 93 percent are aware they exist. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing $759 Million to Improve Rural Broadband Access Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is providing $759 million to improve internet access for people living and working in 24 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Palau. The investments include funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that provides $65 billion to help expand reliable, affordable, high-speed internet access to communities across the United States. “People living in rural towns across the nation need high-speed internet to run their businesses, go to school, and connect with their loved ones,” says Vilsack. “That’s how you grow the economy, not just for rural areas, but across the nation.” The $759 million in loans and grants comes from the third round of funding under the ReConnect Program. USDA is issuing a total of 49 awards in states like Alabama, Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, and many others. So far this year, USDA has announced $1.6 billion from the third round of ReConnect funding. *********************************************************************************** Bunge: Strong Demand Ahead for Soybean Oil The U.S. soybean sector will continue to see support from rising global demand for biofuels. Oil giant Bunge says that support will stay in place for “some time to come.” The company’s chief financial officer says the demand for soybean oil is strong from both the food and energy-producing sectors. Industry Update Dot Com says Bunge also sees unusually high interest from buyers wanting to lock in their prices beyond the next quarter. “We’re very deliberate about price,” says Bunge CEO John Nappi (nap-PEE). “But the demand is there and continuing to grow steadily. And we haven’t seen any decline or lack of interest from either the energy producers or the food industry side of the equation at this point.” SP Global says demand for soybean oil from the U.S. biofuel industry has been rising quickly since 2020 as processors are more confident about the government’s commitment to an energy transition. *********************************************************************************** Poll Finds Rural Voters Pessimistic About the Future A Daily Yonder poll of rural Americans shows they’re worried about the present, feeling pessimism about the future, and planning to vote the way they did in recent elections. The poll was commissioned by the Center for Rural Strategies and found that rural voters in highly-contested states hold negative views about the economy. For example, three-quarters of the respondents say the economy isn’t working for them. Just over half say they don’t expect their financial situations to get better in the next year. A little over three-quarters of the respondents say they think things will get worse, not better, for the next generation of Americans. The Daily Yonder survey also found nearly half of rural voters say the rising cost of living is one of their biggest concerns. The second-largest concern is government dysfunction. Other top issues included jobs and the economy, social security, rising crime, health care, and the rising cost of food and gas. *********************************************************************************** Inland Waterway System Still Struggling with Drought The conditions along America’s inland waterway system remain concerning. Farmers are harvesting an overall strong crop, but the inland waterway system they use to ship commodities doesn’t have the ability to accommodate large amounts of new grains. It’s especially hard on the soybean industry because September through February accounts for 80 percent of U.S. soybean exports. Because over half of America’s soybeans are exported, barge transportation is essential. American Commercial Barge Lines says depth restrictions of no greater than nine feet have been instituted on the Lower Mississippi River, an almost 30 percent decrease. Barges are often loaded to 11-12 feet this time of year on the Mississippi River south of St. Louis. For every one foot of decreased water depth, that means 5,000 fewer bushels are loaded onto each barge. A maximum of 25 barges can be connected on the lower Mississippi compared to 30-40 barges in typical years. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Loan Assistant Tool to Enhance Customer Service The USDA has launched a new online tool to help farmers and ranchers better navigate the farm loan application process. The now uniform application process will help make sure all farm loan applicants receive equal support and have a consistent customer service experience with USDA’s Farm Service Agency, regardless of individual circumstances. “USDA recognizes that more must be done to ensure all customers have equal access to our programs and services,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “This tool will help loan applicants better understand the application process and gather the needed documents before the process even begins.” USDA experiences a high rate of incomplete or withdrawn applications, due in part to a challenging and lengthy paper-based application process. The new Loan Assistance Tool is available 24-7 and gives customers an online step-by-step guide that supplements the support applicants receive in person at an FSA office. For more information, go to farmers.gov.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 28, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets The Labor Department's third-quarter employment cost index will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as a report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for September. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for October is due out at 9 a.m., the same time as a U.S. index of pending home sales for September. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and on outside markets ahead of a likely rate hike on Wednesday, November 2. Weather A small storm system has moved into Texas where rains have spread into Oklahoma. The system will be a slow-mover with showers possibly getting into the Delta Friday night, but could wait until Saturday in some places. Some heavier rain will be possible as further drought reduction looks likely in this small area. But the rest of the country will largely be dry today with near- to above-normal temperatures, favoring harvest and other fieldwork.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 27, 2022 |
Bronaugh To Lead East Africa Agribusiness Trade Mission Deputy Agriculture Secretary Jewel Bronaugh will lead a trade mission to Nairobi, Kenya, and Zanzibar, Tanzania, from October 31 through November 4. Representatives from 32 agribusiness and farm organizations will join Bronaugh on the trip. She says, "This trade mission will provide firsthand knowledge of market conditions and opportunities in East Africa and expand awareness about U.S. agricultural and food products in the region." Both Nairobi, Kenya and Zanzibar, Tanzania, serve as strategic ports in East Africa, attracting many U.S. exporters and investors. Last year, the United States exported more than $60 million worth of agriculture, fish, and forestry products to Kenya, and $6.9 million worth of agricultural products to Tanzania. During the week-long trade mission, participants will meet with potential importers, processors, and distributors from Kenya and Tanzania, as well as other East African nations. National agribusiness groups represented include the U.S. Grains Council, U.S. Meat Export Federation, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council, among others. *********************************************************************************** R-CALF Makes Post-Election Push for M-COOL R-CALF USA, the Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America, is making a push for Congress to consider mandatory country-of-origin labeling of beef. R-CALF is encouraging its members and others to show their support to lawmakers for the American Beef Labeling Act. The bill was introduced by Republican Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds, alongside Democrats Jon Tester and Cory Booker last month. The legislation would require the U.S. Trade Representative, in consultation with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, to develop a World Trade Organization-compliant means of reinstating MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment. USTR would have six months to develop a reinstatement plan, followed by a six-month implementation window. If USTR fails to reinstate MCOOL for beef within one year of enactment, it would automatically be reinstated for beef only. R-CALF points to a Morning Consult poll that claims 86 percent of U.S. voters support the bill. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Leads U.S. Pumpkin Production Pumpkins are on full display across the United States as part of many fall traditions. The production of pumpkins, from classic orange Howdens to new varieties like Cinderella, is widely dispersed throughout the United States, with all states producing some pumpkins. However, USDA’s Economic Research Service reported Wednesday that about 40 percent of pumpkin acres are harvested in only six states. Illinois is consistently the nation's largest pumpkin producer by acreage and weight. In 2021, Illinois produced 652 million pounds, more than a quarter of total U.S. pumpkin production and more than the next five states combined. Unlike all other States, most of Illinois' pumpkins are used for pie filling and processed for other food uses. Pumpkins from other states are primarily intended for decorative, or carving, use. In 2021, Indiana produced 181 million pounds of pumpkins, California grew 157 million pounds, Texas grew 108 million pounds, Michigan grew 89 million pounds, and Virginia grew 82 million pounds. *********************************************************************************** Research: Rainfall Declines Increase Food Insecurity Research by Penn State University published in ScienceDaily shows food insecurity increases when rainfall is below normal. The researchers focused on food insecurity in Tanzania, and found moving from a year with typical rainfall to a particularly dry year was associated with a 13-percentage-point increase in the risk of being food insecure. Tanzania has a high prevalence of food insecurity and is highly dependent on rain to grow its maize crops. Penn State assistant professor Heather Randell says, "Potential interventions could include providing drought-tolerant maize, increasing access to agricultural extension services, scaling up agricultural index insurance, improving uptake of soil and water conservation practices, and providing cash transfers based on drought early warning systems." Randell adds the findings also could apply to other low- and middle-income countries, especially those heavily dependent on maize production. The researchers say food insecurity affected about two billion people, or 26 percent of the global population, in 2019. *********************************************************************************** Clean School Bus Program Funding Primarily Supports Electric Busses The nearly $1 billion investment from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program announced Wednesday is largely for electric busses. Through a lottery system, the agency has selected 389 applications totaling $913 million to support the purchase of 2,463 buses, 95 percent of which will be electric. EPA will distribute awards to school districts in all 50 states and Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. School districts identified as priority areas serving low-income, rural, and, or Tribal students make up 99 percent of the projects that were selected. More applications are under review, and the agency plans to select more to reach the full $965 million in the coming weeks. Funding for the effort comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure law to “build a healthier future, reduce climate pollution, and ensure the clean, breathable air that all our children deserve,” according to EPA Administrator Michael Regan. *********************************************************************************** Oscar Mayer: Avoid Bacon on World Vegan Day Oscar Mayer is calling on bacon enthusiasts to abstain from bacon delight of any kind on World Vegan Day, November 1. The company says, "Deliciously tempting bacon, smoked with real wood smoke for 12 hours, can be tough for those who wish to give up meat." According to a recent survey, more than half of vegans have abandoned their diet for bacon, making it the ultimate "gateway meat." Research shows that 63 percent of vegans wish they could eat bacon, and 56 percent admit bacon's delicious taste temps them. To show the brand's dedication on November 1, Oscar Mayer will reduce temptation by removing all bacon from paid media, and censoring, blurring and removing bacon from its social media. Oscar Mayer’s new campaign encourages fans to “BacOFF,” on social media, by pledging to give up bacon on World Vegan Day. Those who choose to do so could win a lifetime supply of bacon.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 27, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday promises to be a busy morning for new reports. USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, September durable goods and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Commerce Department will also issue its first estimate of third-quarter GDP at 7:30 a.m. and many are expecting positive growth. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank is expected to raise its interest rate Thursday morning and the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas sales is due out at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system is exiting the Central Rockies into the Southern Plains on Thursday. Some scattered showers have been falling over Nebraska and South Dakota from the overnight but will spread south into Oklahoma and Texas later today. There is a small risk for severe weather over Texas, but mostly should be just rain. Other areas of the country will be dry with near-normal temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 26, 2022 |
NMPF Unanimously Endorses Marketing Order Modernization Plan National Milk Producers Federation leadership Tuesday unanimously endorsed a proposal to modernize the Federal Milk Marketing Order milk-pricing system. The plan includes returns to the "higher of" Class I mover, discontinuing including barrel cheese in the protein component price formula. It extends the current 30-day reporting limit to 45 days on forward-priced sales of Nonfat Dry Milk and dry whey to capture more export sales in the USDA product price reporting. Additionally, the plan updates milk component factors for protein, other solids and nonfat solids in the Class III and Class IV skim milk price formulas. The plan develops a process to ensure make-allowances are reviewed more frequently through legislation directing USDA to conduct mandatory plant-cost studies every two years, and updates dairy product manufacturing allowances contained in the USDA milk price formulas. Any final proposal will be reviewed by the organization before it’s submitted to USDA to be considered for a federal order hearing. *********************************************************************************** Tyson Foods, Washington State Settle Price Fixing Lawsuit Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced this week the largest chicken producer in the nation, Tyson Foods, will pay $10.5 million because of a lawsuit over price-fixing on chicken products. The announcement is the third and largest resolution in Ferguson’s lawsuit against 19 broiler chicken producers. The claims against the remaining 16 companies continue. The conspiracy harmed an estimated 90 percent of Washington state residents, or approximately seven million individuals. Consequently, the scheme impacted virtually everyone who consumes chicken products. Tyson Foods is the largest chicken producer in the U.S., with approximately 20 percent of the national market share for broiler chickens. The Washington Attorney General’s Office asserts Tyson Foods and 18 other chicken producers drove up the price of chicken since at least 2008, causing consumers to overpay by millions of dollars. Two other states, Alaska and New Mexico, have similar antitrust cases against national chicken producers. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Support Farmers Affected by PFAS In a bipartisan, bicameral effort to provide vital assistance to farmers affected by PFAS, lawmakers recently introduced the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act. Led by Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins, the legislation would authorize grants for states to provide financial assistance to affected farmers. PFAS are man-made "forever" chemicals used in industry and consumer products and can lead to serious health effects. PFAS contamination has prevented some farms from selling their products, creating financial hardship for many family farmers. Collins says, "USDA needs to step up and provide support to farmers, who at no fault of their own, are at risk of losing their livelihoods." Specifically, the funds would increase PFAS testing for soil and water sources, provide relocation of a commercial farm if the land is no longer viable, and create research on soil and water remediation systems, and the viability of those systems for farms. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Conservation Tillage Increasing The share of acreage for major cash crops—wheat, corn, soybeans, and cotton—that are planted using conservation tillage has increased over the past two decades in the United States. USDA’s Economic Research Service reported the data Tuesday. Farmers reported employing conservation tillage on the majority of acres of wheat at 68 percent, 76 percent of corn acres, and 74 percent of soybeans. Conservation tillage is less common on cotton fields at 43 percent of acres. Conservation tillage, which includes no-till and mulch till, reduces soil disturbance and preserves more crop residue relative to conventional tillage, in which a plow or other implement turns over most of the soil before planting. Additionally, no-till production, a type of conservation tillage in which farmers plant directly into remaining crop residue without tilling, has increased substantially for wheat and corn over the past two decades. Finally, mulch till has trended upward on each crop except for corn over the past two decades. *********************************************************************************** Florida Ag Department Releases Hurricane Ian Damage Assessment The Florida Department of Agriculture this week released a preliminary damage assessment for agriculture following Hurricane Ian. The assessment considered that losses to agriculture production and infrastructure are estimated to be between $1.1 billion and $ 1.8 billion. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried says, "While today's assessment is a preliminary snapshot of the losses to Florida agriculture, it is a critical first step in the process of securing federal disaster aid for our hard-working producers." The report estimated citrus damages between $400 million and $675 million, other fruits and vegetables between $153 million and $230 million, and field crops between $86 million and $160 million. Horticulture damages are estimated up to $297 million, livestock at $492 million and forestry at $32 million. Hurricane Ian made landfall on September 28 near Fort Myers and Cape Coral as a category-four hurricane. The report says Ian is among the strongest hurricanes to make direct landfall in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Applications Sought for Renewed Effort to Assist Farmers American Farmland Trust will accept applications starting November 1 to help farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer or permanently protect farmland or adopt regenerative agricultural practices. The last day to submit applications is November 14. AFT’s Brighter Future Fund provides grants of up to $5,000 per project. A project may involve one or more individual farmers or farm families, and projects will be awarded on a one-per-farm basis. In 2022, the fund will uplift, support, and amplify historically underserved farmers. AFT Vice President of Programs David Haight says, “The Brighter Future Fund makes small investments that have big impacts with participating farmers – particularly those who face barriers in accessing other types of support.” The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers launch, grow, and sustain farms in the face of forces impacting the food and agricultural system. Farmers should submit a completed electronic Brighter Future Fund Application to AFT at farmland.org to apply.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 26, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. The Bank of Canada is expected to increase its interest rate by 0.75% to 4.0% Wednesday, followed by a rate hike in Europe on Thursday. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and news from abroad, especially Ukraine. Weather As a storm system finally pushes east on Wednesday, quieter weather conditions are expected for most areas east of the Rockies. To the west, a system continues to move through the Rockies, setting up another storm for the late-week period across southern areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 25, 2022 |
NCGA Calls on USTR to Act on Mexico’s Pending Decree on Corn Imports Calls from corn grower leaders are growing louder for the United States Trade Representative to intervene in a trade dispute with Mexico over corn imports. The response from corn growers comes as Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s promises to enact a decree that would end imports of corn grown using biotech and certain herbicides by 2024. Biotech corn makes up over 90 percent of U.S. corn crops. An opinion piece by National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag was published over the weekend in The Hill, a newspaper widely read by Congress and other Washington decision-makers. The editorial calls on USTR to file a settlement dispute under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over the matter. Haag says, "If the decree is enacted, the negative impact will be felt by farmers in the U.S. and by the people of Mexico." NCGA has been at the forefront of this issue, and says a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute settlement would allow for extensive debate and mediation. *********************************************************************************** USTR, USDA to Assist Seasonal Produce Industry The Office of the United States Trade Representative will pursue avenues to assist the Southeast seasonal produce industry in coordination with the United States Department of Agriculture. The announcement comes after members of Congress requested an examination of certain issues in a September 8, 2022, Section 301 petition. The 301 statute requires that USTR make a decision on whether to move forward with an investigation within 45 days. The statute also includes a private-sector advisory panel as a specific response to export targeting. Although USTR could not conclude in the 45-day statutory period that a formal 301 investigation would be effective and is not opening an investigation at this time, USTR is moving forward with an advisory panel. USTR and USDA will work with the petitioners and producers to examine the issues raised in the petition and to consider any further actions that may be appropriate as a result. *********************************************************************************** Bill Seeks Excise Tax on Foreign Water-Intensive Crops in the U.S. Legislation introduced last week seeks an excise tax on the sale and export of water-intensive crops grown in the U.S. by foreign governments. Arizona Representative Ruben Gallego introduced the Water Protection Act of 2022, as Arizona and other states face prolonged drought. Gallego says, "While Arizona experiences the driest conditions in centuries, our water is being given away in a sweetheart deal with Saudi Arabia." The Democrat adds, "Arizona's aquifers are meant to serve Arizonans, and this bill will make that happen." The excise tax would be imposed at 300 percent, reflecting the unjustifiable disparity in land lease rates between domestic and foreign producers in Arizona. Arizona is leasing farmland to Fondomonte, a Saudi company which uses Arizona groundwater to grow alfalfa exported to feed cows in the Middle East. The state reports that the company uses enough water annually to supply 54,000 homes, at an estimated cost to the state of more than $3 million a year. *********************************************************************************** EWG: Climate Change Increases Crop Insurance Costs A new Environmental Working Group analysis found the majority of Midwestern counties with increased precipitation between 2001 and 2020 also had growing crop insurance costs. The report alleges the increased crop insurance costs were due to wetter weather linked to climate change. Between 2001 and 2020, farmers in the eight Midwest states received almost $14.5 billion in crop insurance indemnity payments for reduced crop yields or revenue due to excess moisture and precipitation. In all, 661 counties got a crop insurance indemnity payment for excess moisture at some point during that period, adding up to $12.9 billion. EWG claims the Crop Insurance Program undermines the adoption of conservation practices like cover crops that can help farmers adapt to the effects of climate change, such as extreme precipitation events that are expected to continue occurring more frequently. The organization is using the study in a call to make several reforms to the structure of crop insurance. *********************************************************************************** 2012 Nutrition Standards Change Increased Fruits and Vegetables in School Meals A 2012 change in school meal nutrition standards drove changes in the type of foods schools purchased. USDA's Economic Research Service released data Monday that shows following the change in standards, schools obtained more fruits and vegetables through USDA Foods and especially through USDA’s Department of Defense Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. While there was no clear change in the types of foods chosen from 2006 to 2012, the percent of USDA Foods entitlement funds used for purchasing fruits and vegetables from DoD Fresh rose sharply from 6.7 percent of total USDA Foods in 2012 to 15 percent in 2017. Fruit obtained through AMS—mainly canned and frozen—rose from 9.4 percent of total USDA Foods spending in 2012 to 15.4 percent in 2017. Vegetables obtained from USDA's AMS slightly rose from 2012 to 2017. As the spending on fruits and vegetables increased, the percentage spent on meat, poultry, and cheese dropped from nearly 74 percent in 2012 to 61 percent in 2017. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Down Again, Diesel Higher The nation's average gas price declined for the second straight week, falling 9.3 cents from a week ago to $3.77 per gallon. The national average is up 10.2 cents from a month ago and 41.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 4.0 cents in the last week and stands at $5.30 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “While gasoline prices have seen a large drop, diesel prices have been somewhat mixed, with prices heading higher in the Northeast as inventories drop to extremely tight levels ahead of the heating oil season.” Rising risk of economic downturn, weak Chinese imports and a stronger U.S. dollar were factors pushing oil prices lower in the last week. That comes as OPEC+’s recently decided to cut oil production. De Haan adds that the decline in gasoline prices is seasonal and should continue into the fall, and is unrelated to the coming election.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 25, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer confidence for October is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the only report of the day. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and any reports from the Mississippi River. Outside market news will also get market attention with the Federal Reserve expected to raise interest rates again next week. Weather A cold front saw a low-pressure center form along it across Texas Monday and that low and front will continue northeast through the country Tuesday. Areas of rain and thunderstorms are exiting the Plains but will continue for the Delta, Southeast, and Midwest. Rain will disrupt the remaining harvest and there is a risk of severe storms across the Gulf Coast states. Cooler, drier air is filling in behind the front while another system is moving into the Pacific Northwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 24, 2022 |
Farm Financing Demand Edges Higher Strong agricultural prices continue to support the farm economy, but the rapid rise in production expenses could pressure profit margins. That’s pushing the demand for farm financing higher. Larger-sized operating loans are continuing to boost farm lending activity. The Kansas City Fed says the volume of non-real estate farm loans increased by more than 10 percent for the third-consecutive quarter. Operating loans accounted for nearly all the growth, driven by an almost 25 percent increase in the average loan size. Besides a continued growth in lending, interest rates rose sharply and pushed financing expenses to their highest level since 2019. Prices of most major commodities remained elevated alongside favorable market conditions and supported a positive outlook for farm finances through the end of this year. Uncertain demand for farm products in the coming year has led to more volatility, while drought continues to impact large parts of U.S. farm country. *********************************************************************************** NOAA Winter Weather Outlook Shows More Drought Ahead The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its U.S. Winter Outlook. Beginning in December and running through February 2023, NOAA predicts drier-than-average conditions in the South with wetter-than-average conditions in the Ohio Valley, Great Lakes, northern Rockies, and the Pacific Northwest. The agency says widespread extreme drought continues in much of the West, the Great Basin, and the central-to-southern Great Plains. Drought will impact the middle and lower Mississippi Valley this winter. Drought will also develop in the South-Central and Southeastern U.S., while drought conditions should improve across the Northwest U.S. in the months ahead. This year, La Niña returns for a third-consecutive winter, which will drive warmer-than-normal temps in the Southwest, along the Gulf Coast, and through the Eastern Seaboard. NOAA says drought conditions are now present in 59 percent of the country, and parts of the Western U.S. and southern Great Plains will get hit hardest this winter. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Grain Exports Hit Near-Record Total in 2021-2022 U.S. grains in all forms (GIAF) exports for the 2021-2022 marketing year topped 122 million metric tons, the second-highest total on record. That total trails the 129 million metric tons in 2020-2021. The U.S. Grains Council analyzed USDA data to find near-record exports of ethanol helped offset losses from corn, barley, and barley products. Mexico is the top GIAF destination. Record exports of ethanol, corn, DDGS, and pork and pork products, combined with fewer imports from China, made Mexico the biggest U.S. market in 2021-2022. Mexico imported over 27 million metric tons worth $11 billion. China was the second-largest export market for U.S. GIAF, with exports totaling 26 million metric tons worth more than $11 billion. Canada was in third place, taking in U.S. GIAF totaling more than 13 million metric tons worth $6 billion. In the current 2022-2023 marketing year, the U.S. Grains Council continues promoting U.S. grains around the world. *********************************************************************************** Company Developing AI to Accelerate Global Soil Restoration Biome Makers, a global ag tech leader in soil health analysis, received a $1.6 million grant from the European Union. The grant will help answer the need for strong solutions around soil biology in agriculture. The EU recognizes the importance of BeCrop®, the company’s soil intelligence technology, and the environmental and socioeconomic impact it has on farmers. The grant will help fast-track the development of BeCrop® AI and machine learning. That will help accelerate Biome Makers’ global mission of recovering soil health. The AI currently has the world’s largest database of taxonomic references and has analyzed more than 415,000 hectares of soil. BeCrop® technology decodes soil biology to help farmers improve food production while improving the sustainability of their farmland. The industry will no longer have to develop agricultural products or apply inputs without verifying their impact. BeCrop® is the first step to making that happen. Companies like Syngenta already utilize the AI. *********************************************************************************** New Zealand is the Latest Country to Tax Cow Burps New Zealand farmers recently gathered in towns and cities across the country to protest against the government’s plan to tax “agricultural emissions.” Reuters says the government confirmed plans to price agricultural gases and biogenic methane, which it says come from cow and sheep burps. Farmers drove tractors and carried signs protesting the proposed plan. Farm groups wonder how the proposal accounts for on-farm forestry and what can offset such emissions. They also worry about how the emissions will be priced and how the program will be governed. One of the protestors told state-owned Radio New Zealand that they aren’t necessarily wanting exemptions. The farmers want to work out how it's going to be best for them and the country. New Zealand’s prime minister told reporters they wanted feedback from the agricultural community, and the plan is in a consultation phase. The government wants to work with producers to find a solution. *********************************************************************************** Export Sales of Corn and Beans Surge Higher Sales of corn and soybeans to overseas buyers jumped week-to-week, while wheat sales declined during the week ending on October 13. USDA data says corn sales hit 408,300 metric tons, more than double the 200,000 tons sold a week earlier. Mexico was the big buyer at 183,700 metric tons, followed by Japan’s 77,600 tons. Soybean sales surged to 2.34 million metric tons, a significant jump over the 724,000 metric tons sold a week earlier. China swooped in to buy 1.98 million metric tons, far and away the top soybean buyer, with the Netherlands in second with 82,800 tons. The soybean total could have been higher, but the United Kingdom canceled a sale that week of 60,000 tons. Wheat sales dropped to 163,100 metric tons, down from almost 212,000 the previous week. Mexico was the top wheat buyer at 93,500 metric tons. USDA says Italy canceled wheat sales of 60,000 tons.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 24, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will pore over the latest weather forecasts, keep up on the interest rate debate and check the latest news from the Mississippi River and Ukraine. USDA's weekly export inspections report at 10 a.m. CDT gets extra attention these days as a new gauge of river problems. USDA's monthly Cold Storage report is set for 2 p.m., followed by harvest progress and winter wheat planting updates in the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A strong fall storm system is wound up in eastern North Dakota early Monday morning and heading northeast toward Hudson Bay. Scattered showers across the Northern Plains are a mix of rain and accumulating snows. The cold front to the system extends south through the Plains. Across the south, the system is ingesting the remnants of hurricane Roslyn, which is helping increase precipitation across Texas and Oklahoma. The heavier rain will spread northeast into the central Midwest throughout the day while a low pressure center will develop on the front across Texas later in the day, a feature that will move northeast through the Midwest later this week. Strong winds that have been felt across the middle of the country over the weekend are winding down throughout the day. Temperatures behind the front are dropping significantly from the heat seen over the weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 21, 2022 |
Enrollment is Open for ARC, PLC Programs Ag producers can now change their 2023 crop year elections and enroll in the Agricultural Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage Programs for 2023. Signup for the two key safety net programs began Monday, and the enrollment deadline is March 15, 2023. Producers can choose coverage and enroll in ARC-County or PLC, which provides crop-by-crop protection, or ARC-Individual, which protects the entire farm. Although election changes for 2023 are optional, producers must enroll through a signed contract each year. Also, if a producer has a multi-year contract on the farm and makes an election change for 2023, they must sign a new contract. If producers don’t submit their election by the March 15 deadline, their elections remain the same as their 2022 election for crops on the farm. “It’s that time of year for producers to consider all their risk management options,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. *********************************************************************************** October Fed Beige Book Updates Ag Economy Conditions The Federal Reserve Board released its October 2022 Beige Book, which provides as update on current conditions in the agricultural economy. Ag conditions in the sixth district near Atlanta were mixed as cotton growers noted softening demand, while row crop production remained sold. In Chicago’s seventh district, income expectations for producers were unchanged as most operations should be profitable despite rising input costs. Production forecasts in the eighth district of St. Louis declined for corn, rice, and soybeans. In Minneapolis’s eighth district, financial conditions remained strong even as higher input costs bite into profit margins. The tenth district of Kansas City shows strong financial conditions despite adverse developments tied to drought and input costs. The eleventh district of Dallas showed significant rainfall greatly improved drought conditions across much of the district, though it began to dry out again after the rainfall. Many eleventh-district areas had little-to-no crop production because of the drought. *********************************************************************************** Inflation Boosting Prices of Organic Products Ongoing inflation resulted in higher retail prices of organic fresh produce during the third quarter of this year. The Organic Produce Network says that generated a 4.1 percent increase in total organic dollars but also contributed to a decline of 4.5 percent in organic volume compared to the same period last year. Overall, organic fresh produce pricing per pound increased by 8.9 percent during the third quarter compared to the same time in 2021. Sales during the third quarter topped $2.4 billion this year. At the same time, conventional produce’s average price per pound increased by more than 10 percent, with total sales of almost $18 billion. Tomatoes were the bright spot for organic sales in the third quarter, thanks to a 19 percent increase in volume and a hefty 30 percent increase in dollars. Fourteen of the top categories posted year-over-year increases in dollars, led by potatoes, onions, and peaches. *********************************************************************************** EDF Report says Crop Yields will Slow by 2030 The Environmental Defense Fund says extreme heat, changing rainfall, and other climate change impacts will make it harder to grow U.S. staple crops as soon as 2030. The group says future food supplies and farmer livelihoods will be at stake without adaptation efforts getting underway immediately. The EDF report uses an ensemble of 20 computer models to analyze how climate change will alter the yields of staple crops in Iowa, Minnesota, and Kansas by 2030 and 2050. By 2030, nearly all counties in Iowa will see corn yields more than five percent lower than they would have been without climate change. More than half will see declines of 10 percent or more. Over half of Minnesota’s counties will see soybean yields drop by over five percent. Seventeen percent will see drops of more than 10 percent. Eight percent of Kansas counties will see winter wheat yields drop by over five percent by 2030. *********************************************************************************** Winners Announced in National Wheat Yield Contest The National Wheat Yield Contest announced the 2022 winners. Rylee Reynolds of Twin Falls County, Idaho, set a contest yield record of 231.37 bushels an acre. That tops the previous record of 211 bushels per acre set in 2019. Rylee and his dad Gary both placed as national winners in the winter wheat irrigated category. In other results, the Pacific Northwest had some excellent yields this year as all four Bin Buster Award winners are from that region of the country. The contest encourages wheat growers to strive for high yield, quality, and profit while trying out new and innovative strategies for managing their wheat crop. The National Wheat Foundation, which puts on the contest, says there was exceptional participation from all over the nation’s top wheat-growing states. State winners are announced in 27 states, and six of those winners had never won at the national level before this year. *********************************************************************************** Educational Opportunities Ahead at the Cattle Industry Convention The 30th annual Cattlemen’s College will precede the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show on February 1-3 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The educational opportunity draws more than 1,000 attendees every year and includes two days of learning, idea sharing, and networking. The college begins on Tuesday, January 31, with some of the biggest topics in the industry, including the latest in grazing and live cattle handling demonstrations. There are 18 sessions and six educational tracks to choose from on Wednesday, including reproduction technology, herd health, practical nutrition management, better beef business, sustainable grazing, and the latest in genetics. The event concludes with a keynote presentation from Ray Starling of Aimpoint Research. There’s a lot of information at the event, and it’s likely not possible to attend everything in person. To make it easier to access the content, all sessions will be recorded and available for registered attendees. Go to convention.ncba.org for information.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 21, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts, developments along the Mississippi River and outside market news, especially concerning Ukraine. USDA's Cattle on Feed report for Oct. 1 is due out at 2 p.m. CDT Friday and is expected to show 11.45 million head on feed, down nearly 1% from a year ago. Weather A pattern change is underway with a storm system set to drop down into the western states later today and through the weekend, bringing scattered showers to the Pacific Northwest. East of the Rockies it is quickly getting warmer than where we were just a couple of days ago. It is also very dry and increasing winds will lead to higher risks of fires in areas of drought, which are widespread in the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 20, 2022 |
USDA, USAID Announce Global Food Security Research Strategy Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and USAID Administrator Samantha Power Wednesday released the U.S. government's Global Food Security Research Strategy. The strategy underscores the U.S. government's commitment to ending hunger and malnutrition and building medium to long-term sustainable, resilient food systems, according to USDA. The new research strategy emphasizes priority objectives and the use of data to help strengthen the impact of U.S. food security assistance and, with America's leadership, generate sustainable solutions for addressing the root causes of hunger and malnutrition, which are both inextricably linked to entrenched, extreme poverty. The research strategy will underpin the United States Government Global Food Security Strategy. Secretary Vilsack says, "Investment in, and support for, agricultural research and development is imperative so that the world's farmers have access to innovations that enhance productivity and efficiency." The strategy focuses on climate-smart agricultural innovations, improved nutrition through high-quality, affordable diets, and genetic improvement of resilient crops and livestock. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Urge FTC to Investigate Kroger-Albertsons Merger Senate Democrats urge the Federal Trade Commission to investigate the proposed merger between Kroger and Albertsons. The two are concerned about the transaction's potential implications for consumers. The group of lawmakers includes Minnesota's Amy Klobuchar, Connecticut's Richard Blumenthal and New Jersey's Cory Booker. In a letter to the FTC, the lawmakers say, "The grocery industry is essential to daily life, and Americans need the benefits that robust competition brings, namely lower prices, higher quality, and innovation." The lawmakers say the merger comes as food prices are elevated, and "too many American families are struggling to put food on the table." When Albertson’s merged with Safeway in 2015, the FTC found that the merger was likely to harm competition in 130 separate markets and required the company to sell more than 150 stores. Additionally, Klobuchar announced the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights, will hold a hearing in November to examine the proposed transaction. *********************************************************************************** Grassley, Ernst Urge EPA to Set Robust RFS Blending Volumes Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst Wednesday urged the Environmental Protection Agency to establish expanded renewable volume obligations in the upcoming "set" rule under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Iowa Republicans Join South Dakota Republican John Thune and Illinois Democrat Dick Durbin to encourage the agency to increase blending obligations for all renewable fuel types. In a letter to the EPA, the lawmakers say, "Through this rulemaking, EPA has a historic opportunity to not only reinforce its efforts to restore integrity to the RFS, but chart a new course for biofuels that will help meet America's diverse energy demands." Additionally, the lawmakers urge EPA to take other actions to maximize uses for biofuels, including updating lifecycle analysis for biofuel emissions and approving additional fuel registrations under the RFS. Other Senators from Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin also signed the letter to the EPA. *********************************************************************************** Florida Ag Losses Estimated at $1.5 Billion The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences this week released a preliminary assessment of the agricultural production losses associated with Hurricane Ian. The report, which considered crops, livestock, and animal products, estimates a potential loss of up to $1.56 billion for Florida producers. The Economic Impact Analysis Program conducts assessments after any event that disrupts Florida's agriculture industry, with assessments for Hurricane Ian initiated on September 29, 2022, through a survey to producers. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried says, "The impact on Florida's affected commodities cannot be understated, especially the heartbreaking damage to Florida citrus, an industry already facing significant challenges." The preliminary assessment may not account for damage in inaccessible areas or flood areas that cannot be evaluated until fields have dried out. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services is expected to release its own findings later this week. *********************************************************************************** Third-Party Use High for Employer H-2A Applications U.S. farmers who want to hire temporary foreign workers through the H-2A visa program usually work with a third party, according to USDA's Economic Research Service. The new data announced this week indicated third parties, such as agents, associations or a lawyer, to make the applications. Employers themselves filed applications for only 15 percent of all jobs requested. Across the U.S., agents filed applications for 45 percent of all H-2A jobs, an association of farm enterprises filed for 21 percent of jobs, and 19 percent came from a lawyer representing the farmer. However, the usage rates for third parties differ across states. For instance, lawyers tend to file for most of the jobs in California, while agents and associations account for almost two-thirds of the job filings in Florida. The H-2A program allows farm operators who foresee a shortage of domestic workers to bring nonimmigrant foreign workers to the U.S. temporarily to perform agricultural labor or services. *********************************************************************************** Student Leaders Prepare for the 95th National FFA Convention FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education next week during the 95h National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. More than 60,000 FFA members from the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands are expected to participate in the event. Those attending will participate in general convention sessions hosted at Lucas Oil Stadium, be inspired by their peers as they are recognized for their accomplishments, and hear from keynote speakers. Convention attendees will also explore various career paths at the National FFA Expo, located in the Indiana Convention Center, participate in career success tours, and more. There are several entertainment opportunities, including a Wednesday night concert featuring Lauren Alaina and Jimmie Allen and a Thursday night concert with Mickey Guyton and Russell Dickerson, and rodeos on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. General convention sessions will be aired live on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. FFA members and supporters can tune in and watch gavel-to-gavel coverage of the event.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 20, 2022 |
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 U.S. Drought Monitor. A report on U.S. existing home sales in September and the Conference Board's index of U.S. leading indicators are due out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on weather and outside market news. Weather Ahead of a change in the upper-level pattern, temperatures are rising east of the Rockies from the cold conditions we have seen the last few days there. It will continue to be fairly dry outside of Michigan where some lake-effect showers will shut off later Thursday. The dryness will promote harvest and fieldwork, but increasing winds could be concerning for fires, especially in the Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 19, 2022 |
Inflation Reduction Act Payments to Distressed Farmers Reaches $800 Million Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced distressed farmers with qualifying USDA farm loans have already received nearly $800 million in assistance from the Inflation Reduction Act. The $3.1 billion in assistance for distressed farm loan borrowers stems from section 220006 of the Inflation Reduction Act. The legislation directed USDA to expedite assistance to distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA's Farm Service Agency, whose operations face financial risk. Secretary Vilsack says the funding "helps keep our farmers farming and provides a fresh start for producers in challenging positions." The announcement kicks off a process to assist distressed farm loan borrowers using several complementary approaches, with the goal of keeping them farming, removing obstacles, and improving how USDA approaches borrowing and servicing. Work has already started to bring some relief to distressed farmers. As of today, more than 13,000 borrowers have already benefited from the resources provided under the Inflation Reduction Act, according to USDA. *********************************************************************************** Avian Flu Poultry Deaths Near U.S. Record Avian influenza losses are nearing a record in the United States this year, as the virus has infected more wild birds that transmit the disease. A new report from Reuters shows more than 47 million birds have died from infections and culling. The outbreak sparked export bans and lowered egg and turkey production, leading to tight supplies and higher prices as the Thanksgiving Day shopping period nears. The 47 million deaths are near the deadliest U.S. outbreak in 2015, where 50.5 million birds died or were culled. Rosemary Sifford, chief veterinary officer for the Department of Agriculture, says, "Unfortunately, what we've done probably hasn't been enough to protect us from this high load of virus in the wild bird population." Officials are finding the virus in a wide range of wild birds, and it seems to live longer in the birds. Since February, USDA reports the outbreak has infected flocks in 42 states. *********************************************************************************** Online Grocery Baskets Shrinking Online grocery buyers are spending more but buying less, according to a new report this week. The Grocery Doppio Performance Report shows digital sales improved in the third quarter of 2022, albeit lower than 2021 levels. The report shows 13.7 percent of all grocery sales in 2022 are digital, worth $87 billion. There was a 14.4 percent increase in digital sales in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the second quarter of the year. However, inflation is impacting what buyers are purchasing. The report shows shoppers' basket size declined by 5-6 items in the third quarter. Shoppers are faced with a 21 percent increase in price per item in 2022, and 73 percent of shoppers have moved to lower-priced brands in response to the increased prices. Meanwhile, grocery retailers face $2 billion in lost sales due to canceled online orders this year, and a $7.5 billion loss for items not in stock. *********************************************************************************** Online SNAP, P-EBT Totaled $9.7 Billion During Pandemic Online nutrition assistance recipients redeemed $9.4 billion in benefits during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. USDA’s Economic Research reported Tuesday the redemptions came from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, along with the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer benefits, or P-EBT. The programs allowed users to buy groceries online from authorized retailers. The pilot launched with several retailers in 2019 and early 2020 before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilot opened to additional states and retailers in response to the pandemic. The number of participating retailers expanded significantly in the first two years of the pandemic. By December 2020, USDA authorized 13 retailers, growing to 116 in December 2021 and to 148 in March 2022. In 2020, SNAP and P-EBT recipients redeemed $1.5 billion in benefits online. In 2021, this amount more than quadrupled to $6.2 billion. Online redemptions in the first quarter of 2022 totaled $1.9 billion. *********************************************************************************** Florida Lawmakers Seek USDA Disaster Declaration A group of bipartisan lawmakers from Florida wants the Department of Agriculture to declare a disaster area for Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Ian. The lawmakers made the request last week in a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The letter also asked Vilsack to make assistance available to growers whose crops were damaged or destroyed. The letter states, "to ensure that they can recover from losses and continue their important service of feeding America, the expeditious approval of a disaster declaration is warranted and necessary in order to have a successful winter and spring harvest season." The lawmakers say Florida's growers have a unique role in the American food economy, as one of the only locations in the United States where major agricultural production can occur in the winter and spring months. Also last week, USDA's Economic Research Service reported Florida accounted for 1.7 percent of U.S. farm sector cash receipts in 2021. *********************************************************************************** Purdue, USDA, Release Online Freeze-date Tool A new interactive online tool for visualizing and exploring freeze-date trends and other climate patterns is available, thanks to Purdue University and the Department of Agriculture. Purdue’s Midwestern Regional Climate Center partnered with USDA’s Midwest climate hub to create the digital tool, which covers 25 states in the upper Midwest, the Northeast and Appalachia. The tool may interest producers of tree fruits, grapes and row crops such as corn and soybeans to help them take advantage of longer growing seasons. Agricultural advisors, weather forecasters, university Extension staffers and state climatologists also have expressed interest in the tool. While many think of a freeze at 32 degrees, farmers are interested in values that are colder or warmer. Corn and soybeans, for example, can survive 28 degrees, while fruit trees are more sensitive to freezing or near-freezing temperatures. And the freeze-date tool allows users to query their desired temperatures. You can find the Freeze Date tool on the Purdue website.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 19, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts for September is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and any news that develops, especially regarding Russia's grain deal with Ukraine. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be out at 1 p.m., offering its latest assessment of the U.S. economy. Weather Widespread near-record cold conditions east of the Rockies have led to sub-freezing temperatures close to the Gulf of Mexico Wednesday morning. In the cold air, lake-effect rain and snow showers continue over eastern areas of the Lakes, annoying those with fieldwork to do. Otherwise, the drier conditions elsewhere are favorable. While still cold on Thursday, temperatures will be gradually rising for the rest of the week and weekend, starting in the Plains this afternoon.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 18, 2022 |
USDA Opens 2023 Dairy Margin Coverage Program Enrollment Dairy producers can now enroll for 2023 coverage through the Dairy Margin Coverage Program. The program helps dairy farmers manage changes in milk and feed prices. Enrollment for the program began Monday and runs through December 7. Last year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency took steps to improve coverage, especially for small- and mid-sized dairies, including offering a new Supplemental DMC program and updating its feed cost formula to better address retroactive, current and future feed costs. DMC is a voluntary risk management program that protects dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price—the margin—falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern encouraged dairy producers to consider the maximum coverage under the program. Mulhern says, "The current combination of high prices with costs that can be even higher illustrates the basic value of DMC for producers who can benefit from the program." *********************************************************************************** Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum Successfully Brings Sector Together The American Farm Bureau Federation is celebrating a successful Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum held over the weekend in Kansas City, Missouri. The National Milk Producers Federation, dairy cooperatives, processors, state dairy associations and dairy farmers joined AFBF for the event. The three-day event provided a platform for farmers’ voices to be heard while also answering the call from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to bring the dairy producer community together to discuss FMMO modernization. Discussions at the forum focused on Class price formulas and de-pooling, among other topics. The American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Milk Producers Federation agreed on a joint statement regarding the need for FMMO improvements. A number of dairy organizations attending the event also supported the joint AFBF-NMPF statement. The AFBF-NMPF statement reads: “With the last major update to the FMMO system occurring in 2000, we believe it is time to consider improvements that better reflect today’s milk markets.” *********************************************************************************** 16,000 Farmers, Ag Organizations, Submit Comments on EPA Atrazine Proposal More than 16,000 farmers and agricultural organizations recently united against EPA's proposed revision to its 2020 atrazine registration review decision. The farmers and agricultural organizations representing corn, citrus, grain sorghum, sugar cane, and other crops, submitted comments calling for the agency to base decisions on credible scientific evidence. Efforts to help farmers speak out against the proposal were coordinated by the Triazine Network, a diverse coalition of state and national agricultural groups that rely on atrazine and other triazine herbicides to control weeds. The atrazine comment period ended on October 7. In their comments, growers expressed frustration with the EPA's lack of transparency and its repeated efforts to implement measures that would end effective use of atrazine for weed control. In addition to the ultra-low 3.4 ppb level, EPA doubled and tripled down by creating an over-predictive model that predicted 72 percent of U.S. corn acres would be in violation. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy: Access to E15 Would Save Drivers more than $20 Billion A new study from Growth Energy found nationwide access to E15 could save drivers billions in annual fuel costs, create new jobs, and return billions to the U.S. economy. The study, conducted by ABF Economics, follows months of record-high gas prices across the country and President Joe Biden's emergency waiver to allow the sale of E15 for the 2022 summer driving season. The study says a nationwide transition to E15 would also put an additional $36.3 billion in income into the pockets of American households, support an additional 188,000 jobs, and generate $66.3 billion for the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor responds, “Today's study shows that expanded, year-round access of this higher biofuel blend can provide a much-needed boost to the farm economy and even greater savings to American families." E15 is currently sold at over 2,700 stations across 31 states, and drivers have chosen the biofuel blend to fuel 35 billion miles total. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Durum Production Increasing, Food Use Remains Stable U.S. durum wheat production is expected to increase in the 2022/23 marketing year after last year’s drought reduced production to its lowest in 60 years. USDA’s Economic Research Service reported Monday production in 2022/23 is forecast at 64 million bushels, up 70 percent from the previous marketing year, but below the average of the previous five years. Durum wheat is the primary class of wheat used to produce pasta. Food use of durum was elevated in marketing years 2019/20 and 2020/21, fueled by surging consumer demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, when shoppers stocked up on pasta while in quarantine. While the surge in demand has since subsided, consumer prices for wheat-based products, including pasta, are up substantially in 2022. This year's larger durum crop, along with larger Canadian production, has eased some supply pressure. However, high commodity prices in general and elevated input, labor, and energy costs have each contributed to higher prices for the manufactured products of wheat, including pasta. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Gas Prices Reverse, Diesel Higher The nation's average gas price declined for the first time in four weeks, falling 5.4 cents from a week ago to $3.86 per gallon. The national average is up 20.6 cents from a month ago and 56.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 18.7 cents in the last week and stands at $5.26 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “We’ve seen an abrupt, yet expected decline as refinery issues have eased in the West and Great Lakes, overpowering some increases elsewhere.” In addition, oil prices have cooled off slightly after OPEC+’s decision to cut production, and that should slow increases elsewhere. Diesel and heating oil prices will likely continue to rise as extremely low inventories of middle of the barrel products like these two push prices higher. According to data from the Energy Information Administration, oil supplies last week surged nearly 10 million barrels.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 18, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's report of U.S. industrial production in September is the only significant report for Tuesday, due out at 8:15 a.m. CDT. Traders will keep close attention on the latest weather forecasts, news from Ukraine and at 1 p.m., some will take a look at USDA's monthly Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook. Weather Cold air that has drifted southward is resulting in widespread frosts and freezes Tuesday morning for much of the country east of the Rockies. This is record cold for some areas. The cold air is pretty dry outside of the Great Lakes where lake-effect showers continue as a mix of rain and snow, which will be an annoyance for those still looking to complete some fieldwork and harvest.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 17, 2022 |
USDA Releases Proposed Regulatory Framework on Reducing Salmonella The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service released a proposed regulatory framework for a new strategy to control Salmonella contamination and reduce illnesses from poultry products. The agency will host a virtual public meeting on November 3 to get input from stakeholders on the framework. The proposed framework has three components: requiring that incoming flocks be tested for Salmonella before entering an establishment; enhancing establishment process control monitoring and FSIS verification; last is implementing an enforceable final product standard. “We know that Salmonella in poultry is a complex problem with no single solution,” says USDA Deputy Undersecretary Sandra Eskin. “We have identified a series of strategic actions FSIS could take that are likely to drive down Salmonella infections linked to poultry product consumption, and we are pressing those in this proposed framework.” For more information on the virtual meeting, go to the Meetings and Events page on the FSIS website. *********************************************************************************** NCC Says New FSIS Salmonella Framework Lacks Data, Research The USDA announced its new regulatory framework in an effort it says would help reduce Salmonella illnesses associated with poultry products. “We support the need to develop science-based approaches that will impact public health, but this is being done backward,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, National Chicken Council senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs. “The agency is formulating regulatory policies and drawing conclusions before gathering data, much less analyzing it, which is called speculation.” The NCC says the facts show that the Centers for Disease Control and FSIS’s own data demonstrate progress and clear reductions in Salmonella in U.S. chicken products. “Increased consumer education about proper handling and cooking of raw meat must be part of any framework going forward,” Peterson says. “Proper handling and cooking of poultry is the last step, not the first, that will help eliminate any risk of foodborne illness. We’ll do our part to promote safety.” *********************************************************************************** Land O’ Lakes Launches “Farmers are Incredible” Campaign Land O’ Lakes is celebrating National Farmers Day by raising consumer awareness of the critical role that farmers play in society by launching the “State of the American Farmer” survey. The survey revealed some of the misconceptions that Americans have about the state of farming. On average, Americans believe that less than half of all farms are family-owned and operated and that just 43 percent of what they buy comes from family farms. Despite some misconceptions, most Americans are interested in the source of their food. Nearly all of the survey respondents say it’s at least somewhat important that their groceries be sourced sustainably. To show support for farmers, Land O’ Lakes launched “Farmers are Incredible,” a multiplatform creative campaign rooted in celebrating National Farmers Day. The goal is to emphasize the year-round importance of farmers and the agriculture industry. The campaign features the co-op’s farmer members and their work. *********************************************************************************** Corn Belt Farmland Price Sets New Record A recent farmland sale in Iowa set a new record for the Corn Belt. In Plymouth County, Iowa, farmland was sold for $26,250 per acre. Ag Web Dot Com says Brock Auction Company brokered the sale, which included 55 acres of high-quality farmland. That put the total bill at $1.44 million. The bidding began at $17,000 per acre, and three bidders each topped $25,000 per acre, with a local farmer getting the winning bid. This sale now holds a record high for farmland prices. It’s bigger than the last number one sale price from August, when a farm in Sioux County, Iowa, sold for $26,000 per acre. A Plymouth County, Iowa farm recently sold for $25,000 per acre. Numbers in Iowa appear to be up across the board. The Iowa Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute says the value of high-quality cropland is $14,472 per acre, up almost 17 percent from September 2021. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Announces Farm Bill Priorities The American Farm Bureau released its top priorities for the 2023 Farm Bill, easily the most consequential legislation for agriculture next year. The overarching priorities include continuing the current farm bill program funding levels and maintaining a unified farm bill that includes nutrition programs and farm programs together. Farm Bureau also favors prioritizing risk management tools that include federal crop insurance and commodity programs and ensuring adequate USDA staffing and resources to provide technical assistance. “Since the farm bill was enacted in 2018, farmers have faced significant challenges from market volatility, increased input costs, and devastating natural disasters,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. “We need long-term stability.” Their priorities include more than 60 recommendations over multiple farm bill titles. Other recommendations include reference price increases for commodities, more transparency for milk checks, funding for conservation programs, rural development, and streamlining of nutrition programs to get food to those who need it most. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Jumps to Highest Level in a Month The Energy Information Administration says U.S. ethanol production jumped to its highest level in almost a month during the week ending on October 7. Ethanol output rose to an average of 932,000 barrels per day, the largest production level since the week ending on September 9 and up from the 889,000 produced during the prior week. The Midwest is the biggest ethanol-producing area in the country, and output surged to an average of 881,000 barrels a day, the highest level in a month and up from 840,000 a week earlier. East Coast production jumped to 10,000 barrels a day, up from 3,000 barrels the week before. Rocky Mountain output was unchanged, while production dropped on the Gulf Coast by 7,000 barrels a day and 1,000 on the West Coast. Ethanol inventories rose to 21.86 million barrels in the seven days ending on October 7, up from 21.68 million barrels a week earlier.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 17, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will stay on top of the latest weather forecasts and news developments, especially from Ukraine after Russia's President Putin suggested Friday missile attacks were no longer needed. USDA's weekly report of export inspections has become on way of tracking problems on the Mississippi River and is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Also, the National Oilseeds Processors Association will release its estimate of members' soybean crush late Monday morning. Weather A strong cold front pushed south through the country over the weekend. It will continue its journey into the Gulf of Mexico Monday, bringing scattered showers to parts of Texas. But the bigger story is the very cold air filling in behind the front. Widespread frosts and freezes will occur over the next few nights, getting down to Oklahoma, northern Mississippi and Alabama tonight. The cold pushes closer to the Gulf of Mexico for later this week. Cold air moving over the Great Lakes is causing a mix of lake-effect rain and snows that continues the next couple of days, annoying those with fieldwork to do.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 14, 2022 |
Consumer Price Index Summary The Consumer Price Index rose 0.4 percent in September on a seasonally adjusted basis, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Thursday. The food index increased 0.8 percent in September, the same increase as August. The food at home index rose 0.7 percent in September as all six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The index for fruits and vegetables rose 1.6 percent, while the index for cereals and bakery products rose 0.9 percent. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 0.4 percent, while the index for nonalcoholic beverages increased 0.6 percent in September. The dairy index rose 0.3 percent in September, the same increase as the previous month. The food away from home index rose 0.9 percent in September, as it did in August. The food at home index rose 13.0 percent over the last 12 months, and the index for food away from home rose 8.5 percent over the last year. *********************************************************************************** MacKenzie Scott Gift to 4-H to Strengthen Workforce The National 4-H Council Thursday shared details of the $50 million unrestricted gift from writer and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, announced in February. The gift will help close the opportunity gap for America's youth. Over the next five years, National 4-H Council will allocate $10 million to strengthen the 4-H workforce and optimize 4-H youth programming. The investment will accelerate 4-H's ability to meet the needs of young people today and tomorrow while providing the professional development and training required to deliver quality, relevant and impactful programming. The Board will preserve the remainder of the gift for the long term to ensure that National 4-H Council can sustain programs and activities that have the greatest benefits for 4-H youth development in the future and to ensure the gift's enduring impact. The National 4-H Council Board made its investment decisions based on an inclusive process undertaken over six months with extensive input from Cooperative Extension and land-grant university leaders. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Comment on Program Assisting Producers Who Have Experienced Discrimination The Department of Agriculture seeks public comment on how it should implement Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act. The provision aims to assist the nation’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs. Section 22007 provides a transformative opportunity for USDA to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners impacted by discrimination in USDA farm lending programs. IRA Section 22007 directs USDA to provide financial assistance to producers who have experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs and has appropriated $2.2 billion for this purpose. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “These actions further build on USDA’s commitment to use all the tools it has available to help farmers.” The request for information in the Federal Register asks several questions on how USDA should design and administer the program. The 30-day comment period opens Friday, October 14, and closes on November 14, 2022. USDA values your input and welcomes all comments. *********************************************************************************** Grains Council Holds Export Exchange in Minneapolis More than 200 international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and co-products from more than 50 countries are gathering in Minneapolis for Export Exchange 2022 to end the week. The event is co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association. Export Exchange 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. U.S. Grains Council president and CEO Ryan LeGrand says, “It is essential for us to strengthen the bonds between suppliers and partner countries, and the connections made this week will not only help propel our industry this year, but for years to come.” The global buyers were grouped into 20 trade teams that have either been in the U.S. ahead of Export Exchange or will continue their visits after the event to explore American agriculture practices and tour facilities. *********************************************************************************** Florida Accounted for 1.7 Percent of U.S. Farm Sector Cash Receipts in 2021 New data from the Department of Agriculture shows Florida accounted for 1.7 percent of U.S. farm sector cash receipts in 2021. USDA's Economic Research Service estimates the previous year's farm sector cash receipts—the cash income received from agricultural commodity sales. The data includes state-level estimates, which offer background information about states subject to unexpected events that affect the agricultural sector, such as Hurricane Ian. In 2021, commodities produced in Florida contributed about $7.5 billion, or 1.7 percent, of the $434 billion in total U.S. cash receipts. Floriculture, the cultivation of flowers, accounted for the largest share of Florida's cash receipts, valued at $1.1 billion. The next largest commodities in Florida in terms of cash receipts were oranges, at $670 million, sugarcane at $553 million, cattle and calves at $546 million, and milk $470 million. Florida led the nation in cash receipts for sugarcane, cabbage, cucumbers, watermelon, sweet corn, and snap beans. *********************************************************************************** Taziki's Doubles Down with American Lamb Taziki's Mediterranean Café and the American Lamb Board teamed up this summer to promote a new Mediterranean Lamb Burger, made with two patties of 100% American Lamb. The promotion ran from June through September. Dan Simpson, CEO of Taziki’s, says, “Our guests loved the Mediterranean flair added to comfort food and sales surpassed our expectations.” Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café has 90 locations spanning across 16 states nationally, with most locations in the Southeast. Because of its popularity, about 50 percent of the Taziki’s locations continued to offer the lamb burger for an additional month beyond the promotion period. A similar promotion was featured last year with great results, which led to a repeat feature in 2022. American Lamb Board chairman Peter Camino says, “We thank Taziki’s for their commitment to using American Lamb in their lamb burgers. Serving local lamb supports the nation's shepherds and their families.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 14, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday and expectations remain low, while barge traffic is restricted along the Mississippi River. A report on U.S. retail sales for September is also out at 7:30 a.m., followed by the University of Michigan's early consumer sentiment index for October at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and outside market news, especially anything pertaining to Ukraine and the grain deal with Russia. Weather A storm system continues to spin around Ontario, Canada on Friday. In the cold air wrapping around the system, some isolated showers continue in the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes, including a few snowflakes. Breezy winds also continue across a good chunk of the country as well. In drier areas, there is an increased fire risk.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 13, 2022 |
Combine Sales Grow, Tractor Sales Drop in September Combine harvester sales rose during September in both the U.S. and Canada, while total tractor sales fell in both countries. Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag equipment unit sales stayed above the five-year average for the second month since April. Total farm tractor sales fell 12.8 percent in September compared to last year, while U.S. self-propelled combine sales for the month rose 6.6 percent, slowing gains made in August. The 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive tractor segment was once again the only positive segment in the U.S., up 9.6 percent from August. In Canada, growth was led by combine harvesters, up 105 percent. Overall unit sales for tractors were down one percent. “The ag equipment market, as with most markets for manufactured goods, is turbulent,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president of industry sectors and product leadership with AEM. “Supply chain difficulties continue to weigh on manufacturers’ deliveries.” *********************************************************************************** Soy Checkoff Supports Research to Expand Export Infrastructure The United Soybean Board announced it is investing $400,000 to help provide efficient access and bolster international trade markets for U.S. soybean meal. The money will be used for the research, analysis, and design costs of the Port of Grays Harbor’s Terminal Four Expansion and Redevelopment Project. The terminal in Aberdeen, Washington, plays an important role in international exports. “The Port of Grays Harbor is critical in expanding high-value soybean meal exports,” says Tony Johanson, USB director and Soy Transportation Coalition board member. “Our farmers remain committed to enhancing and maintaining U.S. infrastructure to help sustain our competitive advantage over global competitors.” Scheduled to be operational in 2025, the upgrades will allow the terminal to increase soybean meal exports from three to six million metric tons. To accommodate the growth, the Port of Grays Harbor will expand the rail infrastructure, allowing the terminal to handle the volume and mitigate traffic congestion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $110 Million to Improve Rural Healthcare USDA Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that the agency is awarding $110 million in grants to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns across America. These grants will help 208 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services for five million people in 43 states and Guam. “Access to modern and sustainable healthcare infrastructure is critical to the health, well-being, and prosperity for the millions of people who live in rural and tribal communities,” she says. “That’s why we are committed to making sure that the people who need it most, no matter where they live, have access to high-quality and reliable health services like urgent care, primary care, and dental care.” Torres Small also says through the Emergency Rural Health Care Grants, USDA is being a ”strong partner” to people across 43 states and Guam. The investments will help build, renovate, and equip rural hospitals and clinics. *********************************************************************************** October WASDE Report Shows Lower Corn, Soybean Production USDA’s October World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates and Crop Production Reports call for lower U.S. corn and soybean production. The corn outlook is for reduced supplies, greater feed and residual use, lower exports and corn used for ethanol, and smaller ending stocks. Corn production is forecast at 13.8 billion bushels, down 49 million on a reduction in yield to 171.9 bushels per acre. Corn supplies are forecast at 15.32 billion bushels, with the season-average corn price up five cents to $6.80. U.S. oilseed production is forecasted at 126.9 million tons, down 1.6 million from September. Soybean production is forecast at 4.3 billion bushels, down 65 million on lower yields now projected at 49.8 bushels. Supplies dropped by 31 million bushels, with the season-average soybean price down 35 cents to $14.00. The wheat outlook is for lower supplies, domestic use, exports, and stocks. The season-average farm price rose 20 cents to $9.20. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Says Google Feature Misrepresents Beef The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association denounced Google’s decision to bias consumers against beef through their new sustainability search feature. NCBA says that feature provides inaccurate climate information about cattle production. “Google is using its billions of dollars of resources to target cattle producers and ignore the science that demonstrates beef’s sustainability and value to the environment,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein (SHEEF-ell-byne). “Cattle producers have a record of continuous improvement, which has led to the U.S. recording the lowest global greenhouse gas emissions from beef while contributing to the world’s food security.” NCBA also says cattle production protects green space, upcycles grass and forages, and provides consumers with a lean source of protein packed with essential nutrients. “Google should seriously reconsider this feature,” Schiefelbein adds. NCBA points out that livestock play an important role in protecting open spaces and accounts for only a very small portion of greenhouse gas emissions. *********************************************************************************** Railroad Union Votes Down Labor Contract, Strike Looming The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters rejected a tentative labor contract brokered between rail carriers and workers’ union reps. The third-largest rail workers union in the country was the first union to say no to a deal brokered in part by the Biden administration. The union voted the deal down 6,646 to 5,100. President Tony Cardwell told Politico that workers “resent the fact that management holds no regard for their quality of life, illustrated by their stubborn reluctance to provide a higher quantity of paid time off, especially for sickness.” Negotiations will restart, resetting the countdown on a potential strike. The union says it will delay any strike until five days after Congress reconvenes. Four other unions approved the tentative agreement. However, every one of the 12 unions representing employees must ratify their contracts to prevent a strike. Voting will be finished by mid-November.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 13, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday morning's reports will start at 7:30 a.m. CDT with attention on the Labor Department's consumer price index for September, following a producer price report that came in higher than expected Wednesday. U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will also be out at the same time. The Energy Department's natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m., followed by the weekly energy inventory report at 10:00 a.m. The Treasury's budget report for September is due out at 2 p.m. USDA's weekly export sales report is set for Friday morning, due to this week's federal holiday. Weather A cold front continues to press eastward through the country on Thursday with scattered showers. Cold air continues to funnel in behind the front across most of the country east of the Rockies. Breezy winds continue Thursday, especially in the Plains, which increases the fire risk.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 12, 2022 |
Ag Groups Argue Against Prop 12 in Supreme Court Agriculture groups argued against California's Proposition 12 to the Supreme Court Tuesday. The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council challenged the ability of one state to set agricultural production standards for the entire country. California's Proposition 12 law bans the sale of pork from hogs that don't meet the state's arbitrary production standards, even if the hogs were raised outside of California. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, "Proposition 12's misguided approach will ultimately cost every family through higher food prices." The National Cattlemen's Beef Association also supports AFBF and NPPC. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While this case is not focused on cattle producers, the precedent set by the court will determine all producers' ability to engage in interstate commerce." Earlier this year, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the court arguing that California's mandates on livestock production methods violated the dormant commerce clause of the Constitution. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Invests $80 Million to Improve Nutrition in School Meals The Biden Administration Tuesday provided $50 million in grants for schools to invest in new food service equipment that will allow them to continue serving nutritious meals. The funding adds to the $30 million equipment grants the administration gave schools earlier this year. The announcement comes during National School Lunch Week, as designated by President Joe Biden. The added support for school meals and child nutrition builds on the momentum from last month's White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, where the administration unveiled a national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related disease by 2030. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Ensuring access to nutritious school meals is one of the best investments we can make in our fight to end child hunger and improve health." USDA provides grant funds to states, which use a competitive application process to award them to school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program. *********************************************************************************** Global Food Insecurity Increased Nearly 10 Percent in 2022 New research from USDA’s Economic Research Service announced Tuesday shows global food insecurity increased by nearly ten percent in fiscal year 2022. USDA’s International Food Security Assessment model estimates how food prices and incomes affect food demand and access in 77 low- and middle-income countries. Food security is then evaluated by estimating the population unable to access sufficient calories to sustain a healthy, active lifestyle. Of the people in countries included in the 2022 assessment, almost 119 million more people are estimated to be food insecure compared to 2021. The upward trend in international prices for wheat, coarse grains, and vegetable oils during the 2021/22 marketing year has been further exacerbated by Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, which reduced exports of the commodities from the Black Sea region. Domestic prices of major grains in 2022 are projected to rise in 70 of the 77 countries included in the assessment, with the North Africa region being the most affected. *********************************************************************************** RIPE Urges Equitable Payments Above Costs for Conservation in Farm Bill Platform Rural Investment to Protect our Environment, or RIPE, announced its 2023 Farm Bill platform Tuesday. Shaped by farmers and ranchers across the country who lead RIPE, the platform urges organizations to include a resolution, based on RIPE100 principles, in their farm bill platform. The resolution states, “A portion of new funds appropriated by Congress for climate-smart agriculture should be invested in a new conservation program offering a simple enrollment process that enables producers — including early adopters — to earn equitable payments above implementation costs, economic losses during transition to new practices and future climate policy costs.” The recommendation comes as Congress considers how to best encourage climate-smart agriculture through the farm bill, including how to allocate $18 billion in new funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. RIPE is a producer-led organization advancing RIPE100 — a conservation program that would pay producers $100 per acre or animal unit for stewardship, offering equitable payments above costs associated with practice implementation. *********************************************************************************** University Of Illinois to Develop Corn for Diverse Organic Systems Decades of corn breeding efforts emphasizing yield have contributed to modern hybrids with shallower and less complex root systems than their predecessors. Because the breeding and selection of most modern hybrids has taken place in environments with high nutrient concentrations, optimal weed control, and soil moisture conditions, hybrids perform best under high input systems. With help from a new four-year, $1.5 million grant from USDA's National Institute for Food and Agriculture, a team of researchers at the University of Illinois plans to study overlooked attributes of corn roots. The new grant investigates maize roots for organic/regenerative systems and explores ways to manipulate the agroecosystem to optimize carbon storage, resource use efficiency, and productivity. The researchers will work with farmers to learn how they use information about crop and soil conditions to balance management goals. In addition to optimizing yield, the team will work to develop corn roots that respond to changing soil conditions that are driven by management, like rotation length and diversity. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $14M to Strengthen Hispanic-serving Higher Education Programs In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an investment of $14 million to Hispanic-serving higher education institutions. The funding supports Hispanic student learning experiences in the agricultural and human science sectors. The investment will help attract, retain and graduate outstanding students from underrepresented communities. USDA Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh says Hispanic-serving higher education institutions “are our trusted partners in preparing the next generation of agriculture leaders that more fully represent the many diverse populations and voices in America.” The funding is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture's Hispanic-serving Institutions Education Grants Program. The grant program aligns the education institutes' efforts to support the academic development and career attainment of underrepresented groups. As part of the program, USDA awarded funding to New Mexico State University – Las Cruces, Northern Arizona University – Flagstaff, and University of Puerto Rico – Carolina, among other Hispanic-serving higher education institutions.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 12, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets Outside markets will be interested in the Labor Department's 7:30 a.m. CDT report on U.S. producer prices Wednesday, followed by minutes from the latest Federal Reserve meeting at 1 p.m. Grain traders are anticipating USDA's next WASDE and Crop Production reports, both due out at 11 a.m. CDT with updates on row crop harvest estimates and USDA's views on several other hot topics. Weather also remains a prime area of interest with rain needed in many areas. Weather A strong cold front is moving through the middle of the country early Wednesday and producing a broken line of showers from northern Oklahoma into Wisconsin. Additional showers are forming ahead of the front from Alabama up to the Great Lakes. The front will continue to sweep southeast throughout the day with light to moderate rainfall. Some thunderstorms could be stronger in the Delta region Wednesday afternoon. A secondary front moving just behind this first one by about 12 to 18 hours is making for more isolated showers across the Western Corn Belt. Breezy conditions behind this front continue to create an increased fire risk, but it will generally be breezy most places today.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 11, 2022 |
National School Lunch Week: USDA Serves 224 Billion Since 1971 President Joe Biden recently declared this week as National School Lunch Week. The annual declaration highlights how school meals remain a vital lifeline, supplying well-balanced, free or low-cost meals to kids across the country since the program began in 1946. USDA’s Economic Research Service also released a report analyzing data on school lunch meals served. USDA found that between 1971 and 2021, the National School Lunch Program served about 224 billion meals. Of these meals, 126.4 billion were served for free or at a reduced price. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 interrupted the operations of many schools through fiscal years 2020 and 2021. As a result, about 3.2 billion lunches were served through the program in 2020 and 2.2 billion in 2021, fewer than the 4.9 billion in 2019. The drop reflects the use of a USDA pandemic waiver allowing schools to serve meals through the Summer Food Service Program and the creation of the temporary Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer program. *********************************************************************************** Report: Plant-Based Products Appeal Wearing Off Plant-based food is a hot market, but plant-based meat alternative is not, according to a recent study by Deloitte Insights. The researchers say there are many contributing factors, including supply chain problems and a tough comparison point from an impressive prior year. However, data from Deloitte's Future of Fresh survey suggests three consumer-driven reasons for the current stagnation. The addressable market may be more limited than many thought. Dramatically improved taste in recent years unlocked new interest, but the portion of the population open to trying and repeat buying it may already have reached a saturation point. With inflation, fewer people are willing to pay a price premium. Willingness to pay a premium for plant-based alternative meat dropped nine percentage points from last year. Finally, some assumed benefits are being questioned by consumers. Even buyers of plant-based alternative meat are changing their views on some of its attributes. The biggest change is in health perceptions. *********************************************************************************** Mosaic Company Announces Hurricane Ian's Impact on its Fertilizer Producer The Mosaic Company recently announced that North American Phosphates was negatively impacted by damage caused by Hurricane Ian. Significant flooding and high winds were experienced throughout central Florida during the storm, and this caused modest damage to Mosaic Company facilities and supporting infrastructure. Early assessments indicate phosphate production could be down by approximately 200,000-250,000 metric tons, split roughly evenly between the third and fourth quarters of 2022. Repairs are expected to be completed over the next couple of weeks. In addition to production impacts, the timing of shipments was also affected by the storm. Phosphates sales volumes in the third quarter are now expected to total 1.60-1.65 million metric tons, as port and rail closures delayed late third quarter shipments to October. Mosaic plans to provide further updates when it reports third quarter results. The Mosaic company produces fertilizers in West Central Florida, where Hurricane Ian made landfall late last month. *********************************************************************************** NCC Announces 2023 Beltwide Cotton Conferences The National Cotton Council recently announced the 2023 Beltwide Cotton Conferences, set for January 10-12 at the New Orleans Marriott in New Orleans. The event offers attendees timely updates on the latest research, technology and issues affecting U.S. cotton production and processing. The BWCC, coordinated by the National Cotton Council, annually brings together the U.S. cotton industry to exchange information about cotton production. The BWCC's Consultants Conference will run the afternoon of January 10 and extend through the morning of January 11. The 12 cotton technical conferences will meet concurrently beginning on the morning of January 11 and conclude by noon on January 12. The Cotton Sustainability Conference will plan to focus on the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. The Cotton Engineering-Systems Conference is planning presentations on data analytics, robotics, remote sensing and unmanned aerial vehicles, among others. Those planning to attend are encouraged to register via the BWCC home page at www.cotton.org. *********************************************************************************** Walmart Foundation Teams Up with National FFA Foundation The Walmart Foundation Monday announced a $750,000 grant to the National FFA Foundation to incorporate sustainability principles in school education. The National FFA Foundation will leverage the expertise of the National FFA Organization to develop these educational resources. The National FFA Organization is working to ensure they meet the demand by educating the next generation of leaders. This generation will lead by example, act responsibly and create solutions to feed, clothe and fuel the world. National FFA Organization Chief Program Officer Christine White says, “The funding made available allows us to create new sustainability-focused education resources and programming that integrates current sustainable practices across multiple disciplines.” The focus of these resources will be to leverage the social influences of students by creating an inclusive program so all students enrolled in agricultural education can see how sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. *********************************************************************************** National Average Fuel Prices Edge Higher Again The nation’s average gas price climbed for the third straight week, rising 13.8 cents from a week ago to $3.92 per gallon. The national average is up 22.5 cents from a month ago and 67.0 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 18.0 cents in the last week to $5.04 per gallon. OPEC+ decided to cut oil production by two million barrels a day recently, causing an oil price surge of 20 percent, largely the reason for the increase in fuel prices. However, some refinery issues that increased prices appear to be improving in the West and Great Lakes. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “prices in those two regions are likely to inch down, even with OPEC’s decision, as the drop in wholesale prices has offset the rise due to the production cut.” According to GasBuddy, U.S. retail gasoline demand fell last week by 0.3 percent.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 11, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets With Columbus Day behind, Tuesday may feel like a Monday as we will have USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and Crop Progress update at 3 p.m. Traders will continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and outside market news, especially from Ukraine. Trading in grains may turn slow as the day wears on, ahead of Wednesday's WASDE and Crop Production reports. Weather Scattered showers are moving northeast from Texas into Missouri and Illinois Tuesday morning as an upper-level disturbance moves out ahead of a cold front that is sweeping into the Northern Plains. That front will move through most of the northwestern Corn Belt from Nebraska through Minnesota by tonight. The front will produce scattered showers and some thunderstorms, some of which may be severe from southeast Nebraska up into Wisconsin Tuesday evening and night. Breezy winds will occur both ahead of and behind the front, which increases the fire danger risk for those trying to harvest. The front is the first of two that will sweep through the country over the next couple of days.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 10, 2022 |
August Pork Exports Higher While Beef Again Tops $1 Billion U.S. pork exports in August topped year-ago totals for the first time in 2022. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports were slightly above the large volumes of last August and once again surpassed $1 billion in value. “We talk about the importance of developing a wide range of markets for U.S. red meat, and the August numbers are a great example of that,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Exports face significant headwinds in some key destinations. However, the emphasis on broad-based growth pays dividends and allows the overall export picture to remain positive.” Pork exports reached 226,300 metric tons, the largest total since November 2021, while the value rose four percent to $659 million. Beef exports topped 133,800 metric tons, up one percent from last year and the second-largest volume on record, with the export value at just under $1.04 billion. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Industry Groups Hold Press Conference on Labor Shortage Groups like the American Business Immigration Coalition Action, the National Milk Producers Federation, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, and many others involved in U.S. dairy held a press conference on labor shortages. The press conference took place during the World Dairy Expo to help call attention to the urgency of fixing the national farm labor shortage by passing new agriculture workforce solutions in the Senate. Brody Stapel, president of the Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative Board, says dairy is a unique industry with different challenges than any other sector of agriculture. “Our cows must be milked twice a day, every day, and our raw product is extremely perishable,” he says. “That makes a steady workforce that much more important.” Walt Moore, president of the American Dairy Coalition, applauded the House of Representatives for passing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act and said it’s urgent that Senators from across the country do the same. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Cover 321 Million Acres of Crops Drought intensified in many of the nation’s top corn-growing states during the past week. Nationally, 321.6 million acres of crops are experiencing some level of drought, while more than 31 million beef cattle across the country are living with drought. The latest drought monitor map shows a pocket of D2 severe drought emerging in Illinois with poor crop conditions and low hay yield in that region. While drought conditions in Texas have improved recently, pockets of D4 exceptional drought are still present in one percent of the state. D3 extreme drought covers 12 percent of Texas. Drought also intensified in Minnesota, which saw its first area of D3 extreme drought since last December. Wisconsin’s D2 severe drought in the northwest corner spread out to cover four percent of the state. A small part of Iowa is experiencing D4 exceptional drought, while five percent of the Hawkeye State is experiencing D3 extreme drought. *********************************************************************************** World Food Prices Drop in September The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization says the Food Price Index averaged 136.3 points in September, 1.1 percent below August and the sixth-straight monthly decline. The decline was driven by a sharp fall in the international prices of vegetable oils and moderate decreases in those of sugar, meat, and dairy products. Together, that more than offset a rebound in the cereal price index, which averaged 147.8 points in September, a 1.5 percent rise from August. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 152.6 points in September, down more than six percent from August month-on-month and the lowest level since February 2021. The Dairy Price Index averaged 142.5 points, down a half-percent from August and the third-consecutive monthly decline. However, that was still almost eight percent higher than the same time last year. The Sugar Price Index was 109.7 points, down 0.7 percent and its lowest level since July 2021. *********************************************************************************** Barge Operator Can’t Make Deliveries Due to Dry Mississippi River The largest barge operator in the U.S. told its customers last week that it won’t be able to make good on deliveries due to the shrinking Mississippi River. Bloomberg says Ingram Barge Company declared a force majeure in a letter to customers because of the “near-historic” low water along the Mississippi River. The river is the top way to get American grains exported to the world market. Drought has dropped the water level far enough that ships are beginning to run aground. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to stuck vessels in at least two places, including Stack Island between Louisiana and Mississippi and upriver near Memphis. American Commercial Barge Line, another shipping company that uses the river to transport goods, says the drought is causing the most severe impact on navigation since 1988. The logjam comes at the worst time as grain harvest is in progress, and supplies will pile up. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Collaboration Will Propel Climate Advancements Field to Market recently released a report titled Climate Action in U.S. Agriculture that showcases increasing climate commitments from its diverse membership sectors. The report essentially creates a clearinghouse of self-set sustainability and climate targets to give companies and organizations a one-stop shop to benchmark goals, drive performance, and promote accountability. Some of the key findings in the report include 73 percent of the members having public commitments on climate action, up from 68 percent in 2021. Of the 29 corporate members, 22 percent have set science-based targets for reducing emissions. Two of the five goals set by the National Corn Growers Association directly address climate concerns and are documented in the report. The goals are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 13 percent and increase energy efficiency by 13 percent. NCGA Sustainability Director Rachel Orf says the group is working to assist their growers in reaching those goals by 2030.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 10, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, federal offices and banks are closed Monday for Columbus Day. U.S. grain and livestock futures markets are open along with most other markets. USDA's weekly export inspections and crop progress reports will take place at their usual times, but on Tuesday instead of Monday. Traders will still pay attention to the latest weather forecasts and any pertinent news from the outside world, include weekend fighting in Ukraine. Weather Most of the country will be dry Monday, but scattered showers in West Texas will migrate northeast through Oklahoma later today and then into Missouri overnight. Showers will be welcome where they are received for those doing winter grains planting. Elsewhere in the country, conditions continue to favor the ongoing harvest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 7, 2022 |
Biofuel Group Intervening in Legal Attack on RFS The Renewable Fuels Association recently filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit over the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the agency seeking a court review of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS for compliance years 2020 through 2022. The RFA is intervening on behalf of the agency to help stress the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard. The biofuel group’s goal is to “protect EPA’s substantial interest in the integrity of the RFS and investments RFA’s members have made in renewable fuels to support the program,” the motion states. “After years of mismanagement and setbacks by previous administrations, the Biden administration’s EPA is moving in the right direction on the RFS,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We’re looking to intervene in the case so EPA can continue putting the RFS back on track.” *********************************************************************************** WTO: Contraction in Global Trade Growth During 2023 The World Trade Organization is predicting a slowdown in global trade growth next year. Reuters says the pullback is because of sharply-higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates that will limit import demand. The WTO also says global trade could contract further if the war in Ukraine worsens. For 2023, the organization sees trade growth at just one percent compared to a previous forecast of 3.4 percent growth. The WTO director-general says there’s a lot of unpredictability in its forecast, noting that the picture for 2023 is “considerably darker” and the risks for next year’s forecast were more toward the downside. Weather events hitting food-producing regions or damaging energy export infrastructure could further slow trade growth in 2023. The WTO is also warning countries against being tempted to put trade restrictions in place. The group says trade restrictions would only deepen inflationary pressures and reduce living standards. *********************************************************************************** Labor Department Tightens Some H-2A Rules The U.S. Department of Labor issued new rules for hiring H-2A workers that tighten housing and food standards. Industry Update Dot Com also says the new rules clarify that farm associations can be held liable for violations by individual farmers. The new rules canceled a series of broader changes proposed by the Trump administration, some of which were implemented in January 2020. The new rules will take effect on November 14, and the Labor Department says the rules will “strengthen worker protections, modernize and simplify the application process for H-2A and temporary labor certification, and ease the regulatory burden on employers.” The department emphasized in the rule that it doesn’t have legal authority to allow H-2A workers to work year-round in the country. H-2A workers are still limited to seasonal work only. The House-passed Agriculture Workforce Modernization Bill that stalled in the Senate would have allowed a limited number of year-round H-2A visas. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Farmer is New NCGA President The National Corn Growers Association says Tom Haag (Hayg) of Eden Valley, Minnesota, is the organization’s next president. During an introductory news conference, Haag said the year is already shaping up to be a big one for America’s corn farmers. “There’s the next farm bill, the Next Generation Fuels Act, and that’s barely scratching the surface,” he says. “I’m focused on going all-in for corn farmers, but I can’t do it alone.” He also says it will take corn farmers working together to ensure their voice is heard in Washington, D.C., and to work on increasing demand for their product. “It’s hard to know in advance what other issues could come our way, but I am ready to tackle them together,” Haag says. Haag is a fourth-generation family farmer in south-central Minnesota and a former president of the Minnesota Corn Growers. He and his son Nathan raise 1,700 acres of corn and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Applauds SEC Protection Bill More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation that would shield agricultural producers from a climate disclosure rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “U.S. farmers and ranchers absolutely need this exemption from the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. Our producer-members already face nearly insurmountable proposed and ongoing regulatory burdens from an array of federal agencies.” Miller also says producers’ main job should be putting American beef on American plates, not managing the complex clerical duties of SEC compliance rules. The “Protect America’s Farmers from the SEC Act” prohibits the SEC from requiring an issuer of securities to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from upstream and downstream activities in the issuer’s value chain arising from a farm. The SEC’s proposed rule says registrants would be required to disclose information about their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks. *********************************************************************************** Beef Industry Scholarship Applications Open The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to outstanding students pursuing beef industry careers. “We are pleased to continue our decades-long collaboration with the National Cattlemen’s Foundation and NCBA to support and inspire the next generation of food producers through this scholarship program,” says Tim Andriesen, CME Group managing director of agricultural products. Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors or full-time undergraduate students enrolled at a two- or four-year institution. The application process includes writing a one-page letter expressing career goals related to the beef industry, a 750-word essay describing an issue in the beef industry and offering solutions to this problem, or two letters of recommendation. The applicant or a family member must be a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. The deadline is November 11. For information, go to nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 7, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT, the U.S. Labor Department will report on nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate, both for September. Federal Reserve officials will add their own public comments after the reports and at 2 p.m., there is a report on August consumer credit. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts, especially for any rain chances that would help fill the Mississippi River or ease drought in the western Plains. Weather A strong cold front has been pushing through the Corn Belt over the past day and very cold air is filling in behind it. Temperatures in the Northern Plains have dropped down into the 20s and lower 30s for most areas, producing killing frosts this morning. The colder air will spread through the Corn Belt Friday with more frosts and freezes expected through the weekend. Showers are limited to Nebraska behind the front and across west Texas into Oklahoma, where they are welcome for winter wheat establishment. Other areas will remain dry and offer good harvest conditions despite the cold.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 6, 2022 |
Thune Introduces Bill to Improve Livestock Disaster Assistance Senators John Thune and Ben Ray Luján recently introduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act. The bipartisan legislation by the South Dakota Republican and New Mexico Democrat would improve the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple Department of Agriculture programs that assist farmers and ranchers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. The legislation would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which triggers certain disaster programs. Thune says, “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to farmers and ranchers when they need it the most.” The legislation would update the Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program to clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs. The bill also allows the Farm Service Agency to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency, among other changes. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag leadership Urges USDA to Expand Margin Protection Tools Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee recently urged the Department of Agriculture to expand margin protection tools under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. Citing record high input costs and extreme volatility in commodity prices, Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman say the expansion would “allow producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these tools and better manage production cost risk by next fall.” Farmers are heading into the second consecutive planting season with elevated fertilizer and diesel prices while crop prices are getting more volatile. The letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urges margin protection, already in place for dairy, cattle and swine, and certain crops, should be thoughtfully expanded in a timely manner. As the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation considers expanding existing tools or developing new ones, the lawmakers say, "We urge the department to immediately prioritize additional and extensive risk management education for both producers and agents" on the policies currently available. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Farm and Food Workers Relief Program Organizations The Department of Agriculture this week announced 15 organizations to receive funding through the Farm and Food Workers Relief Grant Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The grant recipients today will help us provide relief payments to workers across the country who kept food moving to our families during an especially challenging time." The program, administered by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, uses funding to provide relief to farmworkers and meatpacking workers who incurred pandemic-related health and safety costs. Funding is also set aside for three pilot programs to support grocery workers in recognition of their essential role in the pandemic response. These organizations are now preparing systems and will begin implementing outreach so that eligible farmworkers, meatpacking workers, and grocery workers may apply to these grant recipients to receive $600 payments soon. USDA anticipates that beneficiaries will be able to apply for funds from some of these recipients as soon as late November. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Ag Secretary: Atrazine Restrictions Will Negatively Impact Conservation Efforts Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed restrictions on atrazine. One of the most widely used herbicides in corn production, the proposed revisions by EPA would severely limit the use of atrazine. Secretary Naig tells the EPA that further restricting the use of atrazine will negatively impact pest resistance management and conservation efforts. In his comments, Naig says, "The EPA proposed picklist approach to managing atrazine is complicated, costly, and not feasible for Iowa farmers, landowners, and pesticide applicators." Further, he urges the EPA to listen to feedback from farmers and "adopt atrazine use requirements that are based on the best available science." In October 2020, EPA received a petition alleging that the Agency violated its duties under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by issuing the atrazine reregistration without substantial evidence supporting the decision. The comment period on the proposal ends Friday. *********************************************************************************** Report: Global Farm Productivity Declining Global agricultural productivity growth is in steep decline, and current efforts to expand sustainable agriculture production to feed a growing global population are inadequate to deal with the challenges that the world faces. That's according to the 2022 Global Agricultural Productivity Report, produced by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. To sustainably produce food and agricultural products for more than nine billion people in 2050, agricultural productivity must increase an average of 1.73 percent annually. From 2011-2020, global agricultural productivity grew at an average of just 1.12 percent per year, a significant drop from the average growth rate of 1.99 percent from 2001-2010. Current efforts to accelerate productivity growth are inadequate, the climate will have a significant impact on production, and regional inequities around the world exacerbate the problem, the report says. Researcher Tom Thompson says, "We urgently need to reverse this trend so that we can improve food and nutrition security, sustainability, and resilience." *********************************************************************************** USDA Partnership Seeks Increase in Native American Homeownership The Department of Agriculture is providing $4 million in loans to expand the Native American Relending Pilot program. Two Native Community Development Financial Institutions will use the loan funds to expand homeownership opportunities for Native Americans living on tribal lands in South and North Dakota. Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small says, “We are proud to partner with expert organizations that help us continue to drive economic security and prosperity for rural people.” USDA is providing the funding under the Single Family Housing Direct Loan program. Through this program, USDA provides loans to Native Community Development Financial Institutions, which relend the funds to eligible homebuyers to purchase homes on Native lands. USDA has helped nearly four million rural residents purchase homes since the passage of the Housing Act of 1949. Homeownership rates on Native American lands have historically been lower than those for other communities.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 6, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as the weekly U.S. jobless claims and update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:30 a.m., the Energy Department has its weekly report of natural gas in storage. More Federal Reserve officials are set to speak and traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts. Weather A strong cold front moving through the Northern and Central Plains and Midwest on Thursday is causing temperatures to quickly fall behind it. Scattered frosts are occurring in the Red River Valley of the North Thursday morning, but will be much more widespread and colder Thursday night. Scattered showers are continuing over west Texas, which is a good sign for winter wheat establishment the next few days, but overall conditions continue to be good for harvest.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 5, 2022 |
Interest Rates Help Drive Farmer Sentiment Lower The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer’s farmer sentiment index dropped five points to 112 in September. The drop in farmer sentiment was primarily the result of producers’ weakened perception of current conditions. The Current Conditions Index dropped nine points to 109, and the Index of Future Expectations dropped three points to 113. Concerns about input costs and, in some cases, availability are key factors behind the relative weakness in this month’s farmer sentiment. A growing number of producers expressed concern about the impact of rising interest rates on their operations. High input costs were cited as the number one concern by 44 percent of the survey respondents, while 23 percent chose rising interest rates. Another 14 percent of respondents chose input availability as their biggest worry. The Farm Capital Investment Index also dropped as producers continue to indicate now is not a good time to make large investments in their farms. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Consumption is Rising Again The USDA’s annual report on per-capita dairy consumption saw an emphatic rise in domestic dairy demand. The level of demand rose from 655 pounds per person in 2020 to 667 pounds per person last year. That’s a total not seen since 1960, when it was 659 pounds, and is approaching 1959’s consumer total of 672 pounds. The last time America consumed this much dairy as they do today, Elvis was in the Army. While USDA data says fluid milk consumption has continued a slow decline, cheese continues to rise. American-style cheese consumption reached another record last year. Butter consumption is returning to levels unseen for several decades. Even as dairy consumption shifts, the overall trajectory is positive. The gain in 2021 is the seventh in the past eight years. The National Milk Producers Federation says despite more competition from non-dairy competitors, consumers continue to find dairy useful, preferable, and important. *********************************************************************************** Mexico’s Proposed GMO Corn Ban Will Cost U.S. Producers Billions A Mexican presidential decree to ban genetically modified corn in 2024 would have severe economic consequences for the U.S. and Mexican economies. A study from World Perspectives, Inc., says the move will result in a loss of billions for America’s farmers and higher prices for Mexican consumers. The net economic loss for the U.S. corn industry in the first year of the ban will be $3.56 billion. The U.S. ethanol industry, including DDGS, will incur a net loss of $521.5 million after accounting for gains from lower GM corn prices. Overall, the U.S. economy would lose $73.89 billion in economic output. During a ten-year forecast, the GM corn ban will increase the cost of corn by an average of 19 percent. That will inflate the cost of most foods and other goods for Mexicans. Poultry meat prices will jump by 67 percent because of a 13.7 percent increase in the cost of feed. *********************************************************************************** Southern Plains Economic Conditions Weakening Extremely dry conditions are putting a strain on the Fed’s Eleventh District. Ag bankers responding to a third-quarter survey report overall weaker economic conditions because of drought that’s pressuring agricultural production. The cotton crop and pastureland are especially hurting because of a lack of moisture. “The Southern Plains cotton crop is a disaster,” one survey participant says. “Almost all dryland crop has already been abandoned because of drought, and the irrigated crop still standing is pitiful.” Ag loan demand decreased during the third quarter of this year, the third-straight drop in the past three quarters. Loan renewals or extensions fell for the seventh-straight quarter, but the rate of loan repayments increased. Loan volume decreased for all categories compared with last year. Ranchland and dryland values rose during the quarter, while irrigated cropland values were steady. Cropland, dryland, and ranchland values increased the most in Texas, rising at least 10 percent year-over-year. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Sending 150,000 Servings of Food for Hurricane Relief Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food to Fort Myers, Florida, to help with recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ian. The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based non-profit that deploys to disaster zones across America. They will help serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality, hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in Fort Myers. “Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager with Smithfield. “We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the long and difficult road to recovery.” Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, says, “Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in the wake of Hurricane Ian.” *********************************************************************************** NSF, BASF Open Joint Scholarship Application The National Sorghum Foundation and BASF are accepting applications for a joint scholarship for $2,500 in tuition assistance for the 2022-2023 academic year. The award will be given out in January of 2023. “The National Sorghum Foundation has a longstanding commitment to developing the leadership potential of college students with a passion for improving the sorghum industry,” says newly appointed NSF Chair Jeff Dahlberg. “BASF has worked with us on this endeavor for many years, and we are excited to provide deserving students with the financial support they need to help them succeed.” Scholarship applicants must be the child or grandchild of a National Sorghum Producers member and be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in an agriculturally-related curriculum. Applications should be postmarked by December 1. More information about the scholarship criteria and the application forms can be found online at SorghumGrowers.com. NSP is the organization representing U.S. sorghum producers across the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 5, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the August trade deficit at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday and provide USDA will more specific information about ag exports, which will be released later in the day. At 9:30 a.m., the Energy Department will release its weekly inventory data, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, keenly aware the southwestern U.S. Plains and Lower Mississippi River desperately need rain. Weather A weak system is producing a few isolated showers as it moves through the Midwest on Wednesday. But the big story is the strong cold front that will be moving down from Canada and into the North-Central U.S. Wednesday night. Mild conditions will be felt for one more day across the country, but temperatures will plummet tonight across the Dakotas and Minnesota and continue to do so as the front pushes south through the country for the rest of the week. Some frosts will be possible far north tonight.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 4, 2022 |
NCBA Urges EPA to Pause WOTUS Rulemaking The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association called on the Environmental Protection Agency to pause their Waters of the United States rulemaking. The action follows Monday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in the case Sackett v. EPA, a case that will determine the EPA’s authority to regulate bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover says, "we call on the EPA to suspend their rulemaking until the outcome of the case is clear." In April, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, calling for a new test for determining whether a water feature fell under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. NCBA's argument would allow the government to protect substantial bodies of water while preventing overreach on small isolated agricultural water features. NCBA also commented on the Biden administration's proposed "Waters of the U.S." rule. NCBA calls for this rulemaking to halt until the Supreme Court issues a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Ian Devastates Southwest Florida Agriculture The Florida Farm Bureau says farmers and ranchers are facing widespread destruction of crops, buildings and fencing from Hurricane Ian last week. Florida Farm Bureau is working with its members to assess the damage. The organization says significant fruit has been dropped from the trees in areas of the citrus belt. Fall vegetables once rooted are now lost. Not only has there been loss of human life, but livestock and dairy farms have been devastated by the wrath of Hurricane Ian. Farmers and ranchers are repairing greenhouses, structures, irrigation systems and other machinery and equipment throughout the region. Many farm families are still cutting their way through down trees and power lines and battling flooded roads and blown-out culverts to evaluate the damage. One thing is for certain, the organization says, is that "Florida farmers and ranchers remain unwavering in their commitment to produce the food and fiber that millions of Americans depend on." *********************************************************************************** NPPC Comments on Swine Inspection Program Federal Ruling The National Pork Producers Council late last week welcomed a federal ruling upholding the Department of Agriculture’s New Swine Inspection System. A federal judge in California upheld the program, which NPPC says incentivizes investment in new technologies while ensuring a safe supply of wholesome American pork. In a statement, the organization says, “Pork producers use science-based approaches to continuously improve and modernize their practices to ensure product quality and consistency and their workforce's health and safety." However, opponents who filed the lawsuit argue the rule greatly undermines the ability of federal inspectors to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses by fully inspecting hog carcasses, and instead allows plant employees with little training to take over several steps. The lawsuit was filed by Food & Water Watch, Center for Food Safety and the Humane Farming Association. Center for Food Safety senior attorney Amy van Saun says, “we can only hope we don't see more foodborne illness” because of the ruling. *********************************************************************************** USDA: H-2A Seasonal Worker Program Expanded Over Time USDA’s Economic Research Service Monday reported data that shows the H-2A season worker program has expanded over time. U.S. agricultural employers who anticipate a shortage of U.S. domestic workers can fill seasonal farm jobs with temporary foreign workers through the H-2A visa program. The Department of Labor certified around 317,000 temporary jobs in fiscal year 2021 under the H-2A visa program, more than six times the number certified in 2005. Only about 80 percent of the certified jobs in 2021 resulted in the issuance of a visa. The program has grown partly in response to current U.S. domestic workers finding jobs outside of U.S. agriculture and a drop in newly arrived immigrants who seek U.S. farm jobs. The H-2A program continued to expand in FY 2020 despite the jump in U.S. unemployment caused by lockdowns associated with the Coronavirus pandemic. Nationally, the average H-2A contract in FY 2020 offered 24 weeks of employment and an average hourly wage of $13. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention The American Farm Bureau Federation announced the opening of general registration Monday for the 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention. The convention will be held in-person January 6-11, 2023, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. AFBF assessed the status of San Juan and the convention facilities following Hurricane Fiona and determined that all are fully operational. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This is your opportunity to gain insights about the future of agriculture, sharpen your skills and help define the agenda in Washington.” Workshop topics include the 2023 farm bill, policy updates, market outlooks, trade, the latest ag education resources and strategies for coping with farm stress. An exciting aspect of the convention is the opportunity for farmers and ranchers from the 50 states to see and learn about crops and agricultural practices unique to Puerto Rico. You can view the high-level convention agenda and register online to attend at annualconvention.fb.org. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Gas Prices up, Diesel Down For the second straight week, gas prices climbed higher, with the nation’s average gas price posting a rise of 11.1 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon. The national average is up 0.4 cents from a month ago and 59.8 cents higher than a year ago. However, the national average price of diesel declined 2.9 cents in the last week and stands at $4.86 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says despite the higher gas prices, “areas of the Northeast and Gulf Coast have continued to see declines as the nation experiences sharp differences in trends between regions.” Prices continued to surge on the West Coast and Great Lakes last week. De Haan is hopeful prices will fall, but does caution that OPEC could decide to cut oil production by a million barrels as the global economy slows down. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand fell 1.8 percent last week, according to GasBuddy.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 4, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports Tuesday, but a few Federal Reserve officials will be speaking and could get attention. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, any hint of export sales and any news regarding Ukraine, China or Fed policy. Weather A system moving through the Northern Plains will bring some strings of showers across the Plains Tuesday and will get into Minnesota and Iowa Tuesday night. Mild to warm conditions will be felt across most of the country, and the combination of mostly dry conditions and warmth should continue good harvest conditions for most areas. Drought areas in the Plains may see some showers, but the drought will continue.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 3, 2022 |
Mississippi River Shipping Rates Hit Record High Harvest season is in high gear, and U.S. farmers have another supply chain challenge. Bloomberg says there aren’t enough barges moving goods up and down the shrinking Mississippi River. Drought is drying a vital American waterway, which means a lot less room for vessels moving corn and soybeans from farms to U.S. ports. At one point last week, barge rates hit $49.88 per ton. That’s the highest price on record and a 50 percent jump from 2021 shipping rates. More than half of the corn and soybean shipments heading to world markets travel along the Mississippi. The barge problems are hitting at harvest when the supplies of grain will be at their largest. It also follows a challenging growing season filled with weather problems and soaring inflation for things like fuel and fertilizer. Fertilizers needed by producers to grow grain are also at risk as they ship along the Mississippi. *********************************************************************************** FTC Sues Companies Over Pay-To-Block Scheme The Federal Trade Commission and a group of 10 state attorneys general filed a complaint in federal court against pesticide makers Syngenta Crop Protection and Corteva. The complaint accuses the manufacturers of allegedly paying distributors to block competitors from selling their cheaper generic products to farmers. The complaint says the firms run “loyalty programs” in which distributors only get paid if they limit business with competing manufacturers. Cutting off the competition allowed the defendants to inflate their prices and force American farmers to spend millions of dollars more on their products. The complaint seeks to shut down the illegal pay-to-block scheme and restore competition to affected markets. “The FTC is suing to stop Syngenta and Corteva from maintaining their monopolies through harmful tactics that have jacked up pesticide prices for farmers,” says FTC Chair Lina Khan. “By paying to block generic producers from the market, these companies deprived farmers of cheaper options.” *********************************************************************************** Logan Confirmed to Farm Credit Administration Board Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow and Ranking Member John Boozman announced that the Senate confirmed Vincent Logan to the Farm Credit Administration Board. “His background in both the agriculture and financial sectors makes him well-qualified for this role,” Stabenow says. “He will be the first Native American to serve as a board member.” Ranking Member Boozman says he’s happy to see Logan’s confirmation. “His experience and expertise will help guide a mission that’s critical to the success of our family farmers, ranchers, and agriculture businesses. I look forward to working with him to provide dependable credit sources.” Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says they congratulate Mr. Logan on his confirmation and look forward to working with him. “He’s well-qualified to serve on the FCA Board, and we appreciate the Senate Agriculture Committee and the full Senate’s swift action to fill the board seat,” Van Hoose says. *********************************************************************************** NMPF on Short-Term Infant Formula Imports The National Milk Producers Federation says the temporary, short-term lifting of restrictions on infant formula imports to address the rare infant formula shortage is a positive move to fill the supply gap. “We did not oppose the just-passed Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act given its targeted volume and limited time frame,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “Those guardrails are necessary to ensure that imports temporarily complement U.S. supplies rather than displace existing available dairy formula ingredients.” However, Mulhern says his group “emphatically” opposes efforts that would create long-term dependence on foreign suppliers for a critical nutritional food. “The focus must be to develop additional production in the U.S. necessary to ensure that this crisis isn’t repeated,” Mulhern adds. “As COVID taught us, only a robust domestic supply chain with American workers and U.S. sources of production can best protect families from disruptions of critically-needed products.” *********************************************************************************** Korean Grain Importers will View Corn Crop in Four States A team of feed grain and DDGS buyers from Korea will be in the U.S. in early October to take a close look at the corn crop. The team, which includes a Korean government official, will get to better understand grain quality control and export systems in Washington, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois. The team is the first of 21 groups with participants from 51 countries that will travel to the U.S. as a lead-up to the U.S. Grains Council’s biggest event, the Export Exchange. Export Exchange is a biennial educational and trade forum for U.S. feed grains and will host more than 400 international buyers and end-users. “The Council is delighted to hold the Export Exchange again for the first time since 2018,” says USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. “It’s a great opportunity for foreign buyers to create connections with U.S. producers.” Export Exchange is in Minneapolis, Minnesota, October 12-14. *********************************************************************************** FSA to Consider Eliminating District Committees Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux told lawmakers late last week that he’ll give serious consideration to the recommendation to replace the FSA’s district committee system. Industry Update Dot Com says the USDA’s Equities Commission recently made the recommendation. However, Ducheneaux says the district committee system is an opportunity for producers to be an important part of the process, but it’s also important for those committees to be representatives of those who produce. The administrator says the district committees evaluate regional prices and determine producers’ rights, but they don’t have the right to influence the loan approval process. “We’ve been involved at every opportunity with members of the Equity Commission,” he says. “But we have to understand that we’re working to overcome the decades and generations when it was members of the county commissions that considered the loan applications.” Former FSA officials also say the county committees are important to the FSA’s mission.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 3, 2022 |
Monday Market Watch Markets Back from the weekend, traders have a long list of concerns to check on, including the latest weather forecasts, events in Ukraine, Mississippi River levels, energy supplies in Europe and economic concerns in the U.S. The Institute of Supply Management's index of U.S. manufacturing for September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections. USDA's Crop Progress report is due out at 3 p.m. Weather A system that has been stuck in the northern Rockies since late last week continues to produce some isolated shower across the Northern Plains and central High Plains on Monday. Only limited areas will see anything more than light rain. The rest of the country is mild and dry, favorable for the continued harvest. Drought continues to affect winter wheat areas, however, with limited soil moisture in the Pacific Northwest, southwestern Plains, and northern Delta into the Midwest.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 30, 2022 |
Biodiesel to Turbo Charge American Biofuel Growth A new report from CoBank says the recent investment surge in U.S. renewable diesel production capacity is likely to ignite a period of growth and transition for the biofuels industry. “The outlook for biofuels is good as the U.S. and other developed countries embrace renewable liquid transportation fuels as a solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Ken Zuckerberg, lead grain and farm supply economist for CoBank. “Renewable diesel offers the most intriguing opportunity in the biofuels space because the growth potential is extraordinary.” Several industry stakeholders are planning to build new soybean crush and refineries during the next two years, which would increase U.S. renewable diesel production capacity to 6.5 billion gallons by 2030. Soybean oil is the most common feedstock for producing renewable diesel. CoBank says U.S. soybean acreage would need to grow by 17.9 million acres to fill the supply gap created by the additional crush and refinery projects. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands PACE Coverage USDA says it has expanded its Post-Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) insurance option for corn farmers who “split-apply” nitrogen on their crops. The coverage now includes most counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, where non-irrigate corn is insurable. USDA rolled out PACE earlier this year to support stewardship of fertilizer and will continue to offer it in select counties of Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, and the Dakotas. “PACE provides an additional risk management tool for corn growers,” says NCGA President Chris Edgington. PACE provides coverage for the projected yield lost when producers are unable to apply the post-nitrogen application due to field conditions created by the weather during the V3 through V10 stages. “We’re always working to offer risk management options and opportunities in the best interest of producers and their operations, and that also support and encourage environmental and climate-smart practices,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield to Pay $75 Million to Settle Price-Fixing Suit Smithfield Foods agreed to pay $75 million to settle a price-fixing lawsuit. Reuters says consumers accused the meat producer and several competitors of conspiring to inflate prices in the U.S. pork market by limiting supply. Smithfield spokesman Jim Monroe says the company denied liability in settling, and that the accord reduces the distraction, risk, and cost of protracted litigation. “The agreement also limits a substantial portion of Smithfield’s remaining liability in the nationwide case,” he says. In other litigation, Smithfield previously reached settlements worth $83 million with direct purchasers and $42 million with commercial purchasers, including restaurants. Some of the other defendants include Hormel Foods, Tyson Foods, and data provider Agri Stats, Inc. Smithfield agreed to provide cooperation that the plaintiffs’ lawyers say will strengthen their cases against the remaining defendants. Smithfield is based in Virginia and owned by Hong Kong-listed WH Group, which calls itself the world’s largest pork company. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups React to White House Conference on Hunger Several U.S. ag groups and stakeholders took part in the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. Jim Mulhern president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, thanked the White House for inviting him to the conference. “We know from decades of working in this area that dairy products and the nutrients they provide will be vital to reaching the conference goals,” he says. Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, also attending the conference. “We will continue to highlight beef’s role as an excellent source of protein for all ages, especially those Americans lacking iron and other essential beef nutrients,” Woodall says. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says they’re standing together to end hunger in the United States. “Access to safe and nutritious food is a basic human right, so we’re advocating for strong federal nutrition programs that emphasize fresh and locally-produced food,” Larew says. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Selects Eight for Research Ambassador Program The National Corn Growers Association announced it has picked eight new research ambassadors for the 2022-2023 academic year. They are all secondary students from some of the nation’s top universities, including the University of Minnesota, Purdue University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and others. It’s the second year of the program which NCGA is building momentum. The program was developed and funded by the NCGA Sustainable Ag Research Action team. The objective is to build a network of future leaders in the ag sector. Ambassadors must show academic excellence, leadership potential, and be involved in research relevant to corn production. “We’re continuing to build bridges between the research lab and the farm field,” says Sustainable Ag Research Action Team Chair Jason Lewis. Ambassadors receive a financial reward of $2,500, as well as up to $750 for registration and travel reimbursement to participate in research conferences, and fully-funded travel to NCGA events. *********************************************************************************** Beef Campaign Takes Fine Dining to New Places Colorado Angus rancher Ty Walter recently rock climbed a 100-foot high ledge to enjoy fine dining with a celebrity. In a cliff-side setting, Walter joined actor, comedian, and host Joel McHale to talk about cattle production and what makes Certified Angus Beef® brand products consistently superior, all while enjoying a four-course meal at an elevation of 8,500 feet. After a two-mile hike, the pair rock climbed up the ledge to help promote the Certified Angus Beef brand. There, Walter and McHale enjoyed the four-course meal prepared by CAB Executive Chef Ashley Brennemen. “Every meal doesn’t have to be this extreme, but we wanted to showcase Certified Angus Beef products in a way that would inspire people to create their own flavor adventure,” Brenneman says. Walter adds that, “The thing I was most nervous about was dropping my fork.” The adventure is available on the Certified Angus Beef Brand Test Kitchen YouTube Channel.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 30, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for August are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment at 9 a.m. More Federal Reserve officials speak again Friday. At 11 a.m., USDA will release its quarterly Grain Stocks report and Small Grains 2022 Summary. Traders will also keep an eye on outside markets and follow the latest weather forecasts. Weather Ian, which strengthened back up to hurricane strength Thursday night, will move onshore over South Carolina Friday afternoon. Heavy rain from the system is already pouring into the Carolinas. Far eastern Georgia and Virginia will see rain from the system as well. A weaker disturbance has parked itself over the northern Rockies and is spreading isolated showers through the Northern Plains, and has also made for a few showers out into Minnesota and a few sprinkles cannot be ruled out for portions of the Central Plains as well. Otherwise, harvest conditions are quite good with rising temperatures for most agricultural areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 29, 2022 |
Stabenow Addresses White House Hunger Conference Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow addressed the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health Wednesday. The Michigan Democrat was part of a panel with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Stabenow says, "As long as we have hunger and food insecurity in America, we have work to do, and as Chairwoman, I'm confident that the strong anti-hunger and nutrition framework we've built can help to tackle it." In conjunction with the White House Conference, Stabenow released a fact sheet detailing the Committee's recent work on anti-hunger and nutrition issues. That work includes a 21 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, investments in the food bank network and focusing on nutrition education, among other topics. Stabenow adds now is the time to build on the progress to eliminate hunger and commit to a healthier America. *********************************************************************************** FDA Proposes Updated Definition of ‘Healthy’ Claim on Food Packages The Food and Drug Administration Wednesday proposed updated criteria for labeling foods with the nutrient content claim "healthy" on their packaging. The proposal comes the same day as the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. The rule would align the definition of the “healthy” claim with current nutrition science, the updated Nutrition Facts label and the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans. FDA says more than 80 percent of people in the U.S. aren’t eating enough vegetables, fruit and dairy. And most people consume too much added sugars, saturated fat and sodium. The proposed rule is part of the agency’s ongoing commitment to helping consumers improve nutrition and dietary patterns to help reduce the burden of chronic disease. The proposed rule would update the “healthy” claim definition to better account for how all the nutrients in various food groups contribute and may work synergistically to create healthy dietary patterns and improve health. *********************************************************************************** Atrazine Proposal Comment Deadline Nears The deadline to submit comments on the Environmental Protection Agency’s atrazine proposal is next Friday. The National Corn Growers Association is encouraging growers to join its call-to-action and submit comments to the EPA on the important role atrazine plays in their work. The call-to-action was launched over the summer as EPA began revising its registration for atrazine. EPA is proposing a level of concern for atrazine at 3.4 parts per billion, down from the current level of 15 parts per billion. The move would significantly impair the effective use of atrazine on farms, according to NCGA. Brooke S. Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says, “Reducing the effectiveness of this important herbicide will hinder the work of farmers and turn the clock back on our conservation efforts.” Since the organization launched the call to action on July 20, more than 3,000 growers have commented. EPA’s open comment period closes on October 7. You can submit comments via ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** Grassley, Brown Propose Banning Foreign Individuals from Obtaining U.S. Farm Credit Senators Chuck Grassley and Sherrod Brown introduced legislation this week to prevent foreign individuals from obtaining credit and financial services through the Farm Credit System. The Iowa Republican and Ohio Democrat content that currently, certain foreign individuals and entities are eligible to receive credit through this government-sponsored enterprise. Grassley states, “The expansion of foreign-owned farmland is a justified cause for concern among many family farmers and ranchers. Brown adds, “American taxpayer dollars should not be used as a financing tool for foreign governments to undermine our national security and take our family farms.” FCS was established in 1916 to provide credit to rural areas when commercial lenders were avoiding farm loans. It is mandated and limited by statute to serve agriculture. In 2021, FCS had a portfolio of roughly $210 billion in farm loans. Since 1997, regulations have allowed FCS associations to extend credit to certain foreign nationals who are not permanent residents of the United States and to foreign-owned entities. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Invest $8 Million to Expand Monitoring of Soil Carbon The Department of Agriculture plans to invest $8 million to support and expand carbon monitoring in soils. The investment also supports the assessment of how climate-smart practices affect carbon sequestration. The investment is part of USDA's efforts to build out a national soil carbon monitoring network, which was kicked off with soil carbon monitoring on Conservation Reserve Program acres in 2021. USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service requests proposals for regional projects focused on soil organic carbon stock monitoring, which are due November 28, 2022. The investment in building out the soil carbon monitoring network is part of USDA's comprehensive effort to address climate change through climate-smart agriculture and forestry. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says, “Soil health management practices and activities are a tremendous part of our strategy when it comes to climate-smart agriculture and forestry.” Additional information is available in the notice of funding, which will appear on grants.gov *********************************************************************************** U.S. Red Meat Industry Commemorates 45 Years in Japan Leaders representing the U.S. red meat industry recently traveled to Tokyo to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the inaugural U.S. Meat Export Federation office, which opened in Tokyo in 1977. Japan has consistently been a top customer and is the leading international market for U.S. red meat, purchasing nearly $4.1 billion in 2021. Through July 2022, U.S. red meat exports to Japan reached $2.4 billion. The U.S.-Japan trade partnership is highly valued by those in the U.S. pork, beef and lamb industries. While in Tokyo for meetings, market visits and a celebration event attended by 200 importers, distributors, trade media and U.S. exporters, industry representatives expressed appreciation for the business relationships developed over the past 45 years and expressed a commitment to serve the Japanese market well into the future. The group traveling to Japan included representatives of the U.S. beef and grain industries, meeting with key leaders, traveling to local grocery stores and meeting with influencers.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 29, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be released. USDA's quarterly Hogs and Pigs report is set for 2 p.m. with expectations for an annual inventory decline of 1.6%. Weather Cold temperatures are producing frosts again this morning in the Midwest from eastern Iowa into Michigan. Outside of the cold though it is rather dry with mostly good harvest weather across much of the country. Ian has been downgraded to a tropical storm overnight as it pushed across the Florida Peninsula with heavy rainfall. The storm will spend the day offshore before pushing north toward South Carolina. Rains will begin to impact the Southeast Coast tonight with heavy rain expected for Friday and Saturday from eastern Georgia up through Virginia that will impact harvest and may cause flood damage.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 28, 2022 |
White House Hunger Conference Today (Wednesday) The long-awaited White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health convenes today (Wednesday). The goal of the conference is to end hunger and increase healthy eating and physical activity by 2030. The White House Tuesday released its national strategy with actions the federal government will take to drive hunger solutions. Pillars of the strategy include improving food access and affordability, integrating nutrition and health, empowering consumers to make healthy choices, supporting physical activity and enhancing nutrition and food security research. President Joe Biden says, “This important conference and the commitment to a national strategy on ending hunger and healthier eating will build on the research and knowledge we now have to make America truly a stronger, healthier nation.” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack added, “The Strategy lays out big goals, and we need everyone - local, state, and tribal governments, Congress, private companies, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens - to work together to achieve them.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding Seeks More US Fertilizer Production A new federal grant program announced Tuesday seeks to increase American-made fertilizer production. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the $500 million in grants, intended to spur competition in the fertilizer sector and combat price hikes on U.S. farmers. The Fertilizer Production Expansion Program is part of a government-wide effort to promote competition in agricultural markets. The Commodity Credit Corporation grants will support independent, innovative and sustainable American fertilizer production to supply American farmers. Funds also will expand the manufacturing and processing of fertilizer and nutrient alternatives in the U.S. and its territories. USDA plans for a 45-day application window for applicants to receive priority for projects that increase the availability of fertilizer and nutrient alternatives for farmers to use in crop years 2023 or 2024. USDA will also offer an extended application window for financial assistance to significantly increase American-made fertilizer production to spur competition and combat price hikes. *********************************************************************************** Ongoing Western Drought Most Intense in 20 Years USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reported the ongoing Western drought is the most extreme drought in the region since 2000. As of September 19, 2022, the U.S. Drought Monitor classified more than 18 percent of land in the Western States as experiencing extreme or exceptional drought. In July of this year, more than 32 percent of land was in those categories. Drought conditions in the Western States gradually subsided in the latter months of 2021 but began intensifying again during the first half of 2022. The U.S. Drought Monitor categorizes drought in a region according to soil moisture, streamflow, and precipitation levels. Regional designations are primarily based on historical weather patterns. For agriculture, drought can mean diminished crop and livestock outputs, as well as reduced farm profitability. Drought also reduces the quantity of snowpack and streamflow available for diversions to irrigated agricultural land. These impacts can reverberate throughout the local, regional, and national economies. *********************************************************************************** Funds Available for On-farm Storage Damaged by Recent Natural Disasters The Department of Agriculture this week announced funding to help farmers rebuild on-farm storage systems impacted by recent natural disasters. USDA will make $20 million available to farmers in Kentucky, Minnesota, South Dakota and surrounding areas to rebuild damaged storage facilities damaged in 2021 and 2022 by natural disaster events. The assistance will help producers who were hard-hit by disasters and are currently struggling with a lack of available grain storage have the resources they need as they head into the 2022 crop harvest. The assistance from USDA's Farm Service Agency will help producers affected by the December 2021 tornadoes that passed through eleven counties in Kentucky, as well as producers in Minnesota and South Dakota affected by derechos in May 2022 and July 2022. Similar to other USDA cost-share programs, USDA anticipates that the funds will cover 75 percent of the eligible expenses associated with grain storage capacity costs with building grain storage capacity or purchasing equipment. *********************************************************************************** AFT Announces Solar Energy Development Partnership American Farmland Trust Tuesday announced a partnership with Edelen Renewables and Arcadia. The Farmers Powering Communities seeks to combat climate change through solar energy development while protecting America’s farmland and ranchland. The partnership provides more farmers with the opportunity for a new revenue stream and brings renewable energy to communities where it has not yet been available. Farmers Powering Communities will advance community solar projects of 25 to 50 acres to provide green energy to those who do not have access to rooftop solar – connecting them with local solar farms and bringing resiliency to more Americans. Community solar projects bridge the gap, connecting people to shared solar facilities. The partnership will identify the best land for new solar farms, establish installations and link them to local energy providers who will provide the power to residents at costs lower than the market average. Development will begin in 2023 across a number of states that have active community solar programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA NASS, NASDA, Celebrate 50 Year Partnership USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture celebrate 50 years of working together. The partnership provides timely, accurate and useful statistics in service to U.S. agriculture. NASS and NASDA are celebrating the anniversary during the NASDA annual meeting this week in Saratoga Springs, New York. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “NASDA enumerators do an incredible service for NASS, the producers, our nation, and the world.” NASS works closely with state departments of agriculture to support their agricultural statistics needs and reduce duplication with federal programs. NASDA provides vital, grassroots support for the NASS mission by employing thousands of part-time enumerators who assist farmers and ranchers with ag census and survey responses through telephone and in-person interviews. The partnership allows NASDA staff to focus on data collection, which is essential for accurate data reports, while NASS staff concentrate on survey integrity and data analysis.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 28, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets An index of pending U.S. homes sales in August is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. More Federal Reserve officials will also be speaking at public appearances and are apt to get attention. Traders will continue to watch Hurricane Ian and the latest weather forecasts and are still nervous about the direction of outside markets. Weather Hurricane Ian, a powerful Category 4 storm, is set to move into west-central Florida during the day Wednesday and Wednesday night. In addition to the strong winds from the storm center, the hurricane will be producing heavy, flooding rains as well. Colder air has settled into the Midwest and frosts are occurring in the Upper Midwest states Wednesday morning. Some very isolated lake-induced showers may continue in a couple of spots on the southern end of the Great Lakes, but most areas will remain dry with good harvest conditions continuing.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 27, 2022 |
USDA Announces Action to Spur Competition, Protect Producers and Reduce Costs The Biden administration Monday announced two new Department of Agriculture efforts to support fair and competitive meat and poultry markets. The efforts include publishing the proposed Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Rules Under the Packers and Stockyards Act to protect farmers and ranchers from abuse, and a new $15 million Agricultural Competition Challenge to ramp up collaboration with the State Attorneys General on enforcement of competition laws, such as laws against price-fixing. The two efforts come from the White House Competition Council, which held a meeting Monday. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "USDA is focused on building new, fairer, and more resilient markets, protecting producers, and reducing food costs." Earlier this year, USDA and the Department of Justice announced their commitment to work closely together to effectively enforce federal competition laws, including by launching the FarmerFairness.gov complaint portal for reporting suspected violations of federal competition law. *********************************************************************************** USMCA Partners Host Environmental Committee Meeting Officials from the United States, Mexico and Canada met last week as part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement’s Environment Committee. The committee was established as part of the USMCA to oversee the Environment Chapter's implementation and provide a forum to discuss and review chapter implementation. At the meeting, the officials discussed progress and challenges faced in implementing the environmental obligations since the Agreement's entry into force in 2020. The committee also discussed follow-up items from the first Committee meeting, including the findings of a mapping exercise to identify gaps and opportunities for trilateral collaboration for implementing Chapter 24 commitments, recognizing the need to ensure complementarity and avoid duplication with efforts already underway by the Commission for Environmental Cooperation. In addition, the committee held a public session to share information and hear from stakeholders from Canada, Mexico, and the United States regarding the implementation of Chapter 24. *********************************************************************************** Insured Acreages Vary Widely Across Fruit and Nut Specialty Crops USDA's Economic Research Service Monday reported insured acres of specialty crops vary widely across specific crop types. USDA’s Risk Management Agency offers Federal Crop Insurance Program products to cover specialty crops in counties with enough data available to offer a sound insurance product. Using cherries as an example, crop insurance is available for cherry growers who operate in counties with a high number of cherry acres. Because of this, farmers used federal crop insurance to cover about 65 percent of all cherry acres. Cherry growers outside of those counties used the USDA Farm Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program to cover about 20 percent of all cherry acres, leaving only 15 percent of acres not covered by any risk management program. For some crops, however, federal risk management programs covered only a small portion of acres. Kiwifruits and strawberries, for example, had less than 15 percent of acres covered, while hazelnuts had less than one percent. *********************************************************************************** AEM Hosts Record-breaking DC Fly-in The Association of Equipment Manufacturers Monday reported a record attendance for its Washington, D.C. fly-in last week. Representing equipment manufacturers and suppliers from across the country, participants met with 70 lawmakers. The group advocated for pro-manufacturing policies that will help equipment manufacturers succeed in the United States and around the world. AEM’s Kip Eideberg says, “As Congress continues its legislative business through the end of the year, we will continue to remind lawmakers that they need to reach across the aisle and work to move our country forward.” AEM members advocated for domestic supply chain investments, precision agriculture incentives to support climate-smart practices, and a grant program that supports workforce development. AEM says tariffs continue to hurt the equipment manufacturing industry. AEM asked lawmakers to establish a permanent Section 301 tariff exclusion process so American manufacturers can petition the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to remove tariffs needed for domestic manufacturing and the national economy. *********************************************************************************** Merck Animal Health to Acquire Virtual Fencing Developer Merck Animal Health recently announced an agreement to acquire Vence, an innovator in virtual fencing for rotational grazing and livestock management. Vence provides enhanced technology for producers and ranchers to track, monitor and manage the movement of cattle through a high-tech platform of virtual fencing solutions. Using a computer or smartphone, customers can manage cattle movement and facilitate rotational grazing. Vence's virtual fencing technology can reduce the need for fencing to subdivide pastures and allows producers and ranchers to manage their cattle and grass inventory, while reducing costs of labor and fencing materials. Merck Animal Health president Rick DeLuca says, “Vence is a natural fit with Merck Animal Health's growing portfolio of animal intelligence products that include identification, traceability and monitoring products.” The acquisition is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2022, subject to closing conditions. Vence is available in the United States and parts of Australia. *********************************************************************************** Mixed Week for Fuel Prices Ending the 14-week stretch of gas prices declining, the nation's average gas price posted a rise of 3.2 cents from a week ago to $3.67 per gallon. The national average is down 17.5 cents from a month ago but 49.3 cents higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price declined 5.1 cents the last week and stands at $4.88 per gallon. Refinery snags in some areas of the country contribute to wild fluctuations as areas of the West Coast, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes and Plains have seen significant refinery issues leading to supply challenges. However, the Northeast and Gulf Coast continue to see normal activity at refineries and prices there have dropped. The disconnect between regions grows larger and will likely remain abnormal for the next few weeks. Gas Buddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “A slew of unexpected refinery disruptions, including fires and routine maintenance, have seemingly all happened in a short span of time.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 27, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders in August will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by August new home sales and the Conference Board's index of U.S. consumer confidence for September at 9 a.m. Several Fed officials are also scheduled to speak throughout the day and will likely get attention. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine, but are most jumpy about Fed policy and prospects for higher interest rates ahead. Weather A shot of colder air is settling into the Midwest on Tuesday. Some limited frosts are noted around northern Minnesota into northern Wisconsin, but most areas are remaining on the warm side of freezing. Some showers are still hanging around the Great Lakes. Otherwise, dry conditions continue across most of the country, favoring the continued harvest. Bands of heavy rain from Hurricane Ian are pounding southern Florida as the storm crosses Cuba into the Gulf of Mexico and the state is bracing for its landfall Wednesday night or early Thursday.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 26, 2022 |
USDA Panel Targets County Committee System The Equity Panel investigating discrimination within the agency wants USDA to consider eliminating the county committee system that’s played a big role in managing the Farm Service Agency’s agricultural programs. Industry Update Dot Com says the Fairness Committee voted to recommend in an interim report to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack that the USDA do research and analysis on possibly ending the district county committee system and develop a fairer alternative for all farmers. The analysis should include what the county committees are currently doing in creating disparities for minority farmers. That should include the historical role of the district committee system and the current displacement of minority farmers. The commission also recommends that USDA immediately put a program in place that ensures minority county committee councilors have access to the FSA administrator to report real-time problems or issues in the county. The final report will be completed and submitted to Vilsack soon. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Growers Applaud Efforts to Increase Export Promotion Funding America’s wheat growers have a long history of valuing export market development by supporting the successful public-private partnership with USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. That’s why U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers applaud the introduction of the Cultivating Revitalization by Expanding American Agricultural Trade and Exports (CREAATE) Act of 2022 in the Senate. The legislation would double the funding for the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program, both of which are administered by the FAS. “MAP funding hasn’t increased from $200 million since 2006, and FMD funding hasn’t changed from $34.5 million since 2002,” says USW Chair Rhonda Larson. “However, our foreign competition in most global markets, including wheat, has grown.” USW also uses MAP and FMD funding to enable greater use of U.S. wheat in food aid programs which have taken on more significance due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine that disrupted the global wheat trade. *********************************************************************************** The Cattle Contracts Library Pilot Program Moves Ahead The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service published a Notice to Trade related to the Cattle Contracts Library Pilot Program. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says the Library is designed to be a tool for cattle producers, making information available that may allow them to capture unrealized value for their livestock. “We are pleased to see the pilot program progressing and note the important decision to use the Livestock Mandatory Reporting statutes as a basis for any subsequent rulemakings,” says NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “We look forward to continuing to work with staff at AMS to ensure the success of this tool as well as the protection of our members’ proprietary business information.” The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022 directed the AMS to create a Cattle Contracts Library Pilot Program to increase market transparency for U.S. cattle producers. AMS is drafting a rule to ensure complete contractual information gets reported. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Deadline for Grazing Land Agreements The USDA extended the application deadline for Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative Cooperative Agreements to October sixth. USDA is investing up to $12 million in partnerships that expand access to conservation technical assistance for livestock producers and increase the use of conservation practices on grazing lands. Project proposals for GLCI Cooperative Agreements will identify and address barriers to accessing grazing assistance for producers. The projects should address several concerns, including local natural resource concerns, use climate-smart agriculture and forestry practices and principles, and encourage existing and new partnerships through emphasizing equity in advancing the resource needs of underserved communities. The projects should also identify and implement strategies to quantify, monitor, report on, and verify conservation benefits associated with grazing management systems. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says privately-owned grazing lands cover almost 30 percent of the landscape, so addressing climate change and conserving resources will happen through voluntary practices. To apply, go to grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow, Boozman Expect Votes on USDA, FSA Nominees Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow says she’s hopeful the Senate will confirm three agriculture nominees this week by unanimous consent. The Hagstrom Report says Alexis Taylor is the nominee for USDA undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. Jose Emilio Esteban is nominated for USDA undersecretary for food safety. Vincent Logan is the nominee for the Farm Credit Administration Board. Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman also hopes they can be confirmed this week. Under questioning, Taylor says she’ll work on difficult issues like Mexico’s potential ban on biotech corn. Logan, the chief financial officer with the Native American Agriculture Fund, repeatedly promised to work with young and beginning farmers. When answering questions, Esteban said he's passionate about preventing salmonella and pledged to work together with all parties on “how we get there.” The Senate Finance Committee recently approved Doug McKalip’s nomination as Chief Ag Negotiator, and he’s waiting for Senate confirmation. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Export Sales Take a step Back USDA data shows export sales of corn, beans, and wheat all fell week-to-week during the seven days ending on September 15. Corn sales during the week dropped sharply to 182,300 metric tons from 583,000 tons during the previous week. Japan was the biggest buyer at 83,200 metric tons. Exports for the week hit 563,000 metric tons, up from almost 427,000 tons the prior week. Soybean sales to overseas buyers dropped to 446,000 metric tons, sharply lower than 843,000 tons a week earlier. Egypt was the top buyer with 174,000 metric tons of beans. Exports during the week totaled over 522,000 metric tons, up from almost 374,000 during the prior week. Wheat sales during the week came in at 183,500 metric tons, with Indonesia the top buyer with 136,000 tons. The USDA report says wheat exports from the U.S. totaled 678,000 metric tons, up slightly from 676,800 tons a week earlier.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 26, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, harvest anecdotes, any news from Ukraine or Russia and be wary of outside markets after Friday's widespread risk-off selling. Several Federal Reserve officials are also scheduled to speak Monday and may get attention. USDA's weekly export inspections report is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A push of colder air is moving into the Midwest for Monday and will spread out across eastern areas of the country this week. Some showers will continue near the Great Lakes because of it. Other areas will be warmer and drier. The country awaits the arrival of Hurricane Ian, which is forecast to make a Florida landfall and bring widespread rain and wind damage into the Southeast later this week and weekend.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 23, 2022 |
USDA Providing Over $500 Million to Expand Rural Broadband USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that his agency is awarding $502 million in loans and grants to help provide high-speed internet in rural America. The funds will be available for rural residents and businesses in 20 states. USDA is making these investments through the third funding round of the ReConnect Program. “High-speed internet will improve the rural economy,” says Vilsack. “It will help rural businesses grow and get access to new markets, as well as help rural residents get access to more and better health care and educational opportunities.” The secretary also calls rural America the country’s “backbone.” To be eligible for the funding, an applicant must serve in an area where high-speed internet service speeds are lower than 100 megabits per second for downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads. The agency will have more investment announcements in the coming weeks. For more information about investment in rural areas, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Court Ruling Reinstates Modernized Endangered Species Rules Modernized Endangered Species Act regulations will be reinstated after the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a district court improperly vacated 2019 revisions. The appeals court found that the district court erred by reversing the regulations without determining whether they were actually unlawful. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says they appreciate the ruling by the Court of Appeals. “The revisions to the Endangered Species Act protected at-risk animals while ensuring that farmers could continue feeding America’s families,” he says. “This ruling doesn’t end the debate about modernizing the ESA, but it sends an important message to the lower courts that their job is to rule based on law.” This is the second appellate court ruling to favor the Farm Bureau in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in the past month. In August, the Court overturned a lower court’s ruling that prohibited AFBF from defending the delisting of the gray wolf. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Hosts Next Generation of Ag Leaders for Policy Institute The National Corn Growers Association hosted a group of student delegates from the Agriculture Future of America during the AFA’s Policy Institute in Washington, D.C. The NCGA staff provided a tour and overview of the work the organization does and led discussions around how the national and state associations work collaboratively across the country to increase opportunities for America’s corn farmers. “AFA does incredible work, helping equip the next generation of agriculturalists with the tools and networking experience they’ll need to have successful careers and impact positive change,” says NCGA Market Development Manager Michael Granche’ (GRAHN-chay). “AFA doesn’t just refine their skills but gives them the confidence to walk up to a stranger and tell their ag story.” NCGA was able to engage with the student delegates through different workshops and roundtable opportunities. The Corn Growers will also be a sponsor of AFA’s Leaders Conference held in November in Kansas City. *********************************************************************************** September Wheat Production Forecast Unchanged The USDA’s 2022-2023 September wheat production forecast is unchanged from August at 1.783 billion bushels. 2022-2023 wheat exports are also unchanged from the previous month at 825 million bushels, and there are no by-class changes. U.S. wheat exports for June and July 2022 reached a total of 117 million bushels, down 23 percent from the same time last year. September U.S. wheat imports are unchanged at 110 million bushels, up from 95 million in 2021-2022. America’s wheat imports for June and July totaled 23 million bushels, up 50 percent from the same period in 2021. The 2022-2023 season-average farm price is projected at $9 a bushel, down 25 cents from the previous month. However, it would still be a record. Wheat futures markets remain volatile on a daily basis, underscored by uncertainty regarding the continuity of shipments from the Black Sea region. Recent data says prices may be lower in the coming months. *********************************************************************************** China Food Security Policy May Mean Lower Soybean Demand A Bloomberg article has a large number of soybean farmers around the world worried about the future of Chinese soybean demand. The Chinese government is attempting to boost the country’s food security by trying to lower the number of soybeans turned into animal feed. The farm ministry says feed grains are the biggest problem when it comes to China’s food supply. Ministry officials are asking the feed sector to learn from some of the country’s top producers who have successfully cut down on the amount of soybean meal used in their livestock rations as their main source of protein. China is by far the biggest importer of soybeans in the world, and the import bill last year totaled more than $50 billion. Bloomberg says, “Even modest shifts in soy consumption would help control both import costs and inflation and represent a worry for ‘legions’ of overseas farmers that rely on Chinese demand.” *********************************************************************************** NCGA Asks Senate to Confirm USDA Nominees The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is urging the Senate Ag Committee to confirm key nominees for Undersecretary for Food Safety and Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs in the USDA. “Cattle producers need strong, stable leadership in top positions at USDA, and we ask the Senate to move quickly on confirming these highly qualified nominees,” says Ethan Lane, vice president of government affairs for NCBA. Dr. Jose Emilio Esteban, who currently serves in USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, is the nominee for Undersecretary for Food Safety. Alexis Taylor, the current director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture, is the nominee for Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. NCBA has worked closely with Dr. Esteban, who they say is an extremely qualified candidate for the position of undersecretary. They also have worked closely with Taylor in previous roles at USDA and on Capitol Hill, calling her a “proven advocate for farmers and ranchers.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 23, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for September 1 is the only significant report Friday and is expected to stay close to last year's total of 11.23 million head. Traders will continue to keep track of weather, outside market news, events from Ukraine and any word regarding the vote on the rail workers' contracts. Weather A weak system is moving through the Corn Belt on Friday. Areas of isolated showers and a few thunderstorms are expected as the system drifts eastward. Showers may produce a few delays to the ongoing corn and soybean harvest, but not much. Cooler temperatures to the north oppose hot temperatures that continue across the south. Winter wheat areas in Kansas and Nebraska have seen a few showers this week, but conditions continue to be poor for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 22, 2022 |
Biden Administration Invests $178 Million in International Food for Progress Projects The Department of Agriculture will invest $178 million in seven international development projects on four continents to support U.S. government priorities. The projects include promoting climate-smart agriculture, facilitating trade and addressing the root causes of migration in Central America. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the funding Wednesday and says, "By partnering with private-sector organizations, local governments, and local producers and businesses, we are helping to build more equitable and resilient food systems." Through Food for Progress, USDA donates U.S. agricultural commodities to eligible entities such as private voluntary organizations and foreign governments, which then sell the commodities on the local market and use the proceeds to support agricultural, economic or infrastructure development programs. USDA will donate 240,000 metric tons of commodities this year, valued at $129.6 million. The seven new Food for Progress projects funded by USDA in 2022 are in addition to 41 projects currently underway in 38 countries. *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding International School Feeding Projects The Department of Agriculture will invest $220 million in eight new school feeding projects. The projects are expected to benefit more than a million children across 2,200 schools in food-insecure countries in Africa and East Asia. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the funding Wednesday, awarded through the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. This year's awards are part of the $2 billion investment to strengthen global food security, announced by President Joe Biden at the United Nations General Assembly. USDA's 2022 commitment includes direct financial support for the projects and funding for purchasing and transporting 41,350 metric tons of U.S.-grown commodities to be donated to the projects for use in school meals. The awards also include $23.7 million for purchasing nearly 13,000 tons of locally or regionally produced commodities, supporting producers and supply chains in the target countries, and improving the nutritional diversity of school meals. *********************************************************************************** 2022/23 Rice Imports Projected at an All-time High U.S. rice imports for the 2022/23 marketing year, August–July, are projected to rise 16 percent from a year earlier and to reach the highest volume on record at 44 million hundredweight. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports imported rice is also projected to account for almost 32 percent of domestic use of rice in 2022/23, the highest share on record. Imports of long-grain and the combined classes of short- and medium-grain rice are projected at all-time highs. For long-grain rice, growing consumer preference for Asian aromatic rice, such as jasmine rice from Thailand, has increased import purchases. In addition, the United States has been importing a much smaller volume of regular milled long-grain rice from South American suppliers. Increasing imports are spurred by reduced production in California, where a second consecutive year of drought has reduced the size of the rice harvest. The California rice crop is forecast down 38 percent from a year earlier and is expected to be the smallest crop since 1977/78. *********************************************************************************** Report: Gen Z Prefers Quick Service Restaurants Older Gen Zs, ages 18-24, in the U.S. are discerning when choosing restaurants, according to new data by the NPD Group. Although price matters to this group, their taste preferences and definition of value dictate the type of restaurants they visit. As a result, Gen Zs skew towards quick service restaurants, particularly fast casual, that balance value and focused menu. In the 12 months ending July 2022, Gen Zs made five billion restaurant visits, 4.3 billion visits were to quick-service restaurants, and 736 million were to full-service restaurants. Overall quick service traffic was flat compared to a year ago, while Gen Zs fast-casual visits were up four percent in the period compared to a year ago. Gen Zs favor major fast-casual chains that provide the menu items they want, value for the money, and messaging that reflects their interests, like organics and sustainability, according to NPD's recently released Winning Gen Z Consumers study. *********************************************************************************** Pork Board Receives $155 Million in Climate-Smart Funds The National Pork Board received three grants totaling $155 million as part of the USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding. The three grants are part of the $2.8 billion awarded to 70 selected projects in the first round of funding for the program. The first grant, valued at $20 million, will incentivize soil health and manure management practice adoption and support on-farm sustainability reports for pork operations. The second grant, totaling $95 million, will support a program to advance the adoption of cover crops and conservation tillage in 20 states. The third grant, worth $40 million, will support testing and evaluating climate-smart data in all segments of agriculture in ways that add increased value and support to producers. National Pork Board Sustainability Vice President Ashley McDonald says, “Pork producers stand out as leaders in sustainability with the data aggregation tools they have invested their dollars into already, continually driving to position U.S. pork as the protein of choice here.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Hires Fuel Economist Jonathan Martin Clean Fuels Alliance America Wednesday announced the appointment of Jonathan Martin as its first Director of Economic and Market Analytics. Martin, most recently an economist with Marathon Petroleum Co., brings ten years of experience in oil and gas corporate economics to this newly created role. He will be based in Ohio. Well-versed in synthesizing and analyzing data, Martin is strategically positioned to support Clean Fuels in economic analysis of planning and policy decisions. Martin has a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Indiana. Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen says, “As the diversity of clean fuels grows, we are dedicating additional resources to better predict market trends for our organization and our members.” Martin adds, “I hope to apply my background in energy economics and analytics to help our members and the industry stay abreast of shifting market trends and potential growth opportunities.”
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 22, 2022 |
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 U.S. Drought Monitor. The Conference Board's index of leading indicators for August is due out at 9 a.m. Traders continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and world events with special attention lately on the Fed and Wednesday's comments from Russia's President Putin. Weather A cold front continues to sag south into the southern reaches of the country Thursday but is starting to lose its strength. Still, cooler fall temperatures continue to filter a bit farther south than where they were Wednesday and the heat ahead of the front is being tamped down toward the Gulf Coast. A system in the West will move into the Plains later today and is already producing scattered showers for portions of the Northern and Central Plains, especially around the Nebraska-Kansas border.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 21, 2022 |
Grassley Introduces Bipartisan Biochar Research Network Act Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa Tuesday introduced the Biochar Research Network Act. The Iowa Republican’s legislation seeks to study the effectiveness of biochar, which is a carbon-rich material produced from biomass. Specifically, the bill would establish a national biochar research network to test the impact of biochar across various soil types, application methods and climates to learn more about its capacity to benefit farmers and the environment. Grassley says, “A lot of work remains to fully understand the benefits biochar could provide, and that’s why I’m honored to lead the introduction of the Biochar Research Network Act.” The proposed research network would work to understand productive uses for biochar to help with crop production and climate mitigation. The network would also assess biochar’s potential for soil carbon sequestration and deliver cost-effective and practical information to farmers on sustainable biochar production and application. A companion bill was recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Extremely Disappointed with White House Biotechnology Executive Order The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association expressed disappointment Tuesday over an Executive Order announced last week. The White House last week released the Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation for a Sustainable, Safe, and Secure American Bioeconomy. NCBA President Don Schiefelbein says, "Unfortunately, we are extremely disappointed that this Executive Order also addresses fake meat production under the guise of food security." He adds, "Supporting cell-cultured, fake meat products is the wrong approach, and the administration should remain focused on supporting America's farmers and ranchers." NCBA encourages the administration to support the biotechnology innovations already occurring in the cattle industry. According to the organization, technology like gene editing is critical to improving cattle health and wellbeing, while also helping the U.S. cattle industry demonstrate climate neutrality by 2040. NCBA says cattle producers play an important role in ensuring food security and has long fought for policies that help producers remain in business while raising the highest quality beef in the world. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands SNAP Online Shopping, Adds New Retailers The Department of Agriculture continues to expand opportunities for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, participants to conveniently shop online for groceries. USDA reported Tuesday more than 150 additional retailer chains now offer online shopping to SNAP participants, representing thousands of stores. In collaboration with state agencies and vendor partners, USDA expanded the availability of SNAP online purchasing to 49 states and the District of Columbia, providing more than 99 percent of all SNAP participants with access to online purchasing. USDA's Stacey Dean says, "Expanding the diversity of our online shopping retailers is a critical component of our nutrition security goal to provide better access to healthy, safe, affordable foods." In July 2022, just over three million SNAP households shopped online, a substantial increase from March 2020, when about 35,000 SNAP households shopped online. In the last four months, 44 retailers were added to the program, representing 1,240 store locations. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Off-farm Income Increasingly Important A new study shows increasing dependence on off-farm employment and income reveals the growing economic interconnection of rural communities and surrounding cities. According to a study by researchers at the University of Missouri, 82 percent of U.S. farm household income now comes from off-farm sources. The study was commissioned by CoBank and completed in partnership with CoBank's Knowledge Exchange. Most farmers cited reliable income as the top reason for off-farm employment, as one-half of farm households have negative farm income in a typical year. Health and retirement benefits were also cited as key reasons for off-farm jobs within farm households. Among the study's key findings is that rural communities have increasingly diverse economies, and success within a rural community's agricultural sector is largely dependent on other sectors of the regional economy at large. Today, only 6.5 percent of workers in rural counties are employed in agriculture, compared to 15.4 percent in 1970. *********************************************************************************** AEM Releases Sustainability Toolkit for Manufacturers The Association of Equipment Manufacturers recently unveiled its equipment industry Sustainability Toolkit. The toolkit provides assessments and resources to help manufacturers and their supply chains minimize operational impact on the environment. The toolkit aims to advance the equipment manufacturing industry's efforts to align with evolving regulation and support a more sustainable world. AEM President Megan Tanel says the toolkit is “a resource to help our member companies take action to deliver lasting change to protect the environment.” AEM Sustainability Council Chair Karen Cecil adds, "The assessments in the toolkit provide actionable best practices for improving sustainability opportunities and efficiency, plus minimizing risks." The toolkit offers action plans, tools, and best practices to implement under four phases of the sustainability maturity model. The toolkit also features several assessments designed to help company leaders navigate the evolving sustainability landscape and identify areas for improvement. *********************************************************************************** New Leader Brings Innovative Perspective to CropLife America Policy Efforts CropLife America Tuesday announced the hiring of incoming Vice President, Government Relations Peggy Browne. With years of experience in agriculture, government, and policy, Peggy will use her expertise to lead CropLife America's government relations team. CropLife America president and CEO Chris Novak says, "Peggy's background and passion for agriculture, her understanding of government, and her demonstrated leadership will help CropLife continue to move industry priorities forward." Before joining CLA, Browne worked for USDA's Farm Service Agency —starting first in Oregon as the state executive director before moving to Washington, D.C., as the deputy administrator of field operations. Browne also recently worked on the Senate Agriculture Committee. Browne founded and was president and CEO of Browne Consulting, where she worked with farmers to develop and manage conservation projects, advised clients on water rights issues, Farm Bill programs and more. Her agriculture experience is grounded in her experience as a farmer/rancher in Oregon, where she served as vice president of the Oregon Farm Bureau.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 21, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. existing home sales in August is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventory at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Ethanol production has slowed lately and will be watched in the 9:30 a.m. report. Wednesday is the final day of the Federal Reserve's two-day meeting and you will want to be seated for the increase in interest rates expected to be out at 1 p.m. Weather Heat remains in place across a good portion of the south Wednesday, but a strong fall cold front continues to work its way southeast through the country. Areas of showers and thunderstorms will come along with the front, being strongest across the eastern Great Lakes later Wednesday and Wednesday night, extending back to Colorado. Temperatures behind the front are some 20 to 30 degrees lower than they were yesterday.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 20, 2022 |
Legislation Would Reduce Regulation on Trucking Industry Legislation introduced last week would remove burdensome government regulations from the trucking industry, according to Senator Mike Rounds. The South Dakota Republican introduced the Trucking Regulations Unduly Constricting Known Service-providers, or TRUCKS Act. Rounds says the regulations are burdensome to agriculture, school districts and trucking companies. In 2012, then-President Obama signed into law legislation that set in motion a new rule that created a requirement for Entry-Level Driver Training. The final rulemaking went into effect earlier this year. All new drivers who wish to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License must now complete Entry-Level Driver Training, adding a burdensome requirement at a time when the American Trucking Association estimates a nationwide trucker shortage of 80,000 drivers. The bill would allow states to issue a new “Small Business Restricted CDL” so Entry-Level Driver Training requirements would not affect small businesses with nine CDLs or less. The U.S. Custom Harvesters have endorsed the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Not All Happy with Climate-Smart Practices Funding The Climate-Smart agriculture partnerships funding announced last week has some environmental groups drawing criticism. While welcomed by many in the food and agriculture sector, environmental group Friends of the Earth says some of the funding recipients are unacceptable. Funding recipients and partners include a range of corporations, universities, NGOs, trade associations, farms, tribal organizations, and state agencies. USDA is expected to soon make another announcement of $700 million for smaller projects under this initiative. Jason Davison, Senior Food and Agriculture Campaigner at Friends of the Earth, says, “Unfortunately, several of them will funnel tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to some of the most egregious climate offenders — Big Ag corporations like JBS, Cargill, and ADM.” Davison adds, “Many of these corporations and trade associations have historically fought climate mitigation measures, refusing to report data on their emissions and other pollution.” Friends of the Earth called on Congress and the Department of Agriculture to ensure transparency and accountability for the projects. *********************************************************************************** USDA Funds Six International Research Projects on Climate-Smart Agriculture USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service Monday announced grants for research and educational partnerships focused on climate-smart agriculture in tropical countries. Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley announced the $300,000 in funding to six U.S. universities. Whitley says, “We’re confident that they can collaborate on climate solutions that contribute to food security and agricultural sustainability, both locally and globally.” The Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding the funds under the Scientific Cooperation Research Program. FAS is awarding approximately $50,000 each to Tennessee State University, the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Texas State University, the University of Missouri, the University of Nebraska, and Louisiana State University. Whitley noted that this year's awards support two of USDA's top priorities under Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh: putting agriculture at the center of solutions to the global climate crisis; and advancing racial justice, equity and opportunity in USDA program administration through the involvement of three prominent minority-serving institutions. *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity Rates Differ Across States USDA’s Economic Research Service Monday released data showing the variations of food insecurity across the nation. Food insecurity rates vary across States because of household-level characteristics, State-level characteristics, and State-level policies. The estimated prevalence rates of food insecurity during 2019-21 ranged from 5.4 percent in New Hampshire to 15.3 percent in Mississippi. The estimated national average was 10.4 percent. The prevalence of food insecurity was significantly higher than the national average in nine States and lower than the national average in the District of Columbia and 14 States. In the remaining 27 States, differences from the national average were not statistically significant. USDA monitors the extent of food insecurity in U.S. households at the national and State levels through an annual U.S. Census Bureau survey. State-level estimates are obtained by averaging three years of data. Food-insecure households are those that had difficulty at some time during the year providing enough food for all members of the house due to a lack of resources. *********************************************************************************** Dickhut Retiring from Farmers National Company Farmers National Company Monday announced Randy Dickhut (dick-hoot), Senior Vice President of Real Estate Operations, will retire on September 30, 2022. He retires after more than 20 years of work and leadership within the company. Dickhoot began his career with Farmers National Company in 2002 as a Farm Manager in West Central Illinois. In 2006, he moved to Omaha, Nebraska when promoted to the Vice President of Client Relations, and will complete his tenure with the company as the Senior Vice President of Real Estate Operations. Farmers National Company also announced that Paul Schadegg, Western Area Sales Manager, has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Real Estate Operations. Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role with 20+ years of real estate and farm management experience. Farmers National Company, an employee-owned company, is the nation's leading agricultural landowner services company. *********************************************************************************** Murky Future for Fuel Prices Fuel prices fell again last week, but GasBuddy says the near-term future is murky. The decline marks the 14th consecutive week of declines. The nation's average gas price declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.64 per gallon. The national average is down 25.7 cents from a month ago but 45.9 cents higher than a year ago. The average diesel price declined 7.0 cents last week and stands at $4.93 per gallon. However, this week could change the downward trend, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan, who says, “With some issues arising in Plains and Great Lakes states as the transition to winter gasoline begins, I think we have the best potential to see the weekly trend of falling prices snapped.” West Coast states also continue to see increases as unexpected refinery issues continue to percolate, preventing a downward move. De Haan adds, “diesel prices should continue to ease after a much-needed jump in inventories last week.”
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 20, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in August is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT and is the only significant report of the day. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts for the U.S. and South America, watch for a possible export sale announcement and any news regarding Ukraine or Wednesday's expected rate hike. Weather A strong cold front has dropped out of Canada and into the Northern Plains on Tuesday morning. The front will continue southeast through the day, getting into the Central Plains and the Upper Midwest by tonight. Limited showers are expected with the front, but some better thunderstorms will be possible around Wisconsin in a couple of rounds. Hot temperatures continue ahead of the front while much cooler temperatures follow behind it by about 20-30 degrees.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 19, 2022 |
Agricultural Share of Exports Hit High Mark in 2021 The value of all U.S. exports has grown at an average annual rate of six percent since 2002 and reached a record high of $1.4 trillion in fiscal year 2021. The USDA says while the bulk of U.S. exports consists of industrial supplies and capital goods, agriculture’s share of total U.S. exports has steadily increased. Between fiscal years 2002 and 2021, the value of agricultural exports rose by an average of 11 percent every year, exceeding the overall rate of increase for the rest of American exports. In 2021, ag producers accounted for 12 percent of the total value, up from nine percent in 2002. Even as total U.S. exports dropped 12 percent when COVID-19 began in fiscal year 2020, ag exports stayed steady because of surging shipments of soybeans, corn, and pork to China. In 2021, total U.S. exports rebounded by 14 percent as global demand recovered and trade restrictions relaxed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Resumes Export Sales Reports U.S. soybean exporters are off to a decent start as far as sales in the new marketing year. However, the first USDA report in several weeks says the shrinking U.S. crop, questionable Chinese demand, and South American competition are all threats to future sales opportunities. Reuters says those factors are pressuring U.S. corn exports too, but the latest level of sales was already uneventful ahead of the U.S. harvest. Technical issues prevented USDA from publishing weekly U.S. export data for almost a month. The data released last week included four weeks of sales ending on September 8. The data drought spanned marketing years as 2022-2023 began on September 1 for corn and soybeans. Soybean sales beat expectations in those four weeks at 5.75 million tons. For the 2022-2023 marketing year, U.S. corn sales during those four weeks hit 2.465 million tons. Total corn sales in the new marketing year reached 12.3 million tons. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Holds Successful D.C. Fly-In Last week, more than 250 members of the National Farmers Union came to Washington, D.C., from all over the country to advocate for family farmers. During the week, members attended hundreds of Congressional meetings, met with over a dozen federal agencies, and directly participated in discussions with Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chair Rostin Benham, and many others. “This has been an incredibly productive and successful fly-in for National Farmers Union,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “It’s a testament to the passion and interest of our members that they’re willing to take time away from the farm and come to Washington and build bipartisan support for Fairness for Farmers and their farm bill priorities.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says National Farmers Union, in many respects, has been the architect and the designer of the work the Biden administration is doing in terms of farm country and agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Taiwan Team to Purchase 69.8 Million Bushels of U.S. Wheat Representatives from the Taiwan Flour Millers Association signed a letter of intent last week with U.S. Wheat Associates to buy 1.9 million metric tons of U.S. wheat over the next two years. Officials from U.S. Wheat Associates say that’s about 69.8 million bushels of American wheat worth $576 million. The signing took place at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Taiwan is the sixth-largest U.S. wheat export market and the seventh-largest overseas market for U.S. agricultural products. “American farmers place great value on the relationship between U.S. agriculture and Taiwan,” says Michael Peters, USW Vice Chairman. “We pride ourselves as being dependable partners who grow the highest quality agricultural products in the world.” The team from Taiwan also signed Letters of Intent with the U.S. Soybean Export Council and the U.S. Grains Council to purchase soybeans and corn. The total estimated commitment in the three letters is estimated at $3.2 billion. *********************************************************************************** RIPE Awarded $80 Million for Pilot Conservation Program Rural Investment to Protect our Environment (RIPE) and its partners have been awarded $80 million for a pilot program by USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program. RIPE is a producer-led organization advancing RIPE 100. It’s a conservation program that would pay producers $100 per acre or animal unit for stewardship, offering equitable payments above costs associated with practice implementation. Under the three-year program, the pilot will help producers in Arkansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Virginia prove the value of paying farmers and ranchers $100 per acre or animal unit for stewardship practices that deliver public value through carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas reductions, improved soil health, water quality and conservation, and other environmental practices. Other key principles of the pilot include easy enrollment, equitable payments, and no penalty for early adopters. Participants will get technical support in learning how to implement climate-friendly practices such as cover crops, no-till, nutrient management, and more. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Hosts Farm Tours for Food Influencers People who influence opinions about food are taking to the backroads of America and learning how American lamb is raised while natural resources are protected. The American Lamb Board selected key market areas for the tours, including Boston, Seattle, Boulder, and Napa. “Our Lamb Checkoff engages with food influencers because they add another layer of credibility to our messages,” says ALB Chairman Peter Camino (Kah-MEE-no). “We’ve had numerous occasions when influencer relationships created opportunities we didn’t anticipate.” On August 1, a group of 25 Boston-area chefs and food media influencers made the trip to a farm in Boxford, Massachusetts, and enjoyed a deep dive into learning about lamb. The tour shed light on the intricacies of raising sheep in New England and highlighted the regenerative farming practices the producer already employs. The next tour was held on September 18 and hosted a group of influencers at Ninety Farms, located near Seattle.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 19, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders may be a little cautious with an eye on outside markets as the Federal Reserve starts a two-day meeting Tuesday and is expected to increase the federal funds rate target on Wednesday. Traders will also be checking for rain prospects, especially for HRW wheat areas. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Scattered showers left over from the weekend continue over the eastern Midwest on Monday. Additional showers are developing with a weak system in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies. But over the rest of the country and particularly in the Central Plains, heat is building with temperatures well above normal forecast for the next couple of days. Recent showers did not fall over much of the winter wheat areas of the country which continue to suffer drought while the heat is also unfavorable. Showers may have and continue to have some negative effect for mature corn and soybeans waiting to be harvested.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 16, 2022 |
Tentative Railroad Agreement Reached The Biden administration helped to broker a deal between the major railroads and labor unions. The agreement avoids a rail shutdown but still has to be approved by a vote of union members. The biggest issue in the dispute wasn’t pay but working conditions. Some freight rail engineers and conductors faced on-call schedules that could see them called to work on short notice up to seven days a week. CNN says roughly 30 percent of America’s freight moves by rail. Recently harvested crops would be stuck, unable to reach processing plants and risk spoiling. The shutdown would have likely made inflation worse, cost the U.S. economy up to $2 billion a day, and affected the agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors of the economy. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, told Reuters that the deal is great for the ethanol industry as much of the country’s biofuel supplies are moved by railroads. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Growers Applaud Rail Agreement The National Association of Wheat Growers and U.S. Wheat Associates applaud the tentative agreement between the railroads and rail union representative that averted a potential Friday rail shutdown. While the union members have to vote on the deal, they have agreed not to strike while the deal goes through ratification. “COVID-19 forced rail laborers into a tough situation as essential workers, and we applaud their willingness to come to an agreement,” says NAWG CEO Chandler Goule. “We also appreciate the railroads understanding the severity of the situation and taking steps to improve their services.” Wheat growers are uniquely reliant on rail due to the large distances between production and consumption. “Our country’s reputation as the world’s most reliable wheat supplier depends heavily on functioning rail transportation and that won’t change in the future,” says USW President Vince Peterson. Railroads have moved more than one billion bushels of wheat during the last five years. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Wants Limited Greenhouse Gas Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reiterated the need for a limited version of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s greenhouse gas disclosure rule. SEC Chair Gary Gensler recently testified before the Senate Committee on Banking. “The SEC’s proposed greenhouse gas disclosure rule is aimed at large publicly-traded companies but would lead to unintended consequences for small businesses like farms and ranches,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “The rule would require data that simply does not exist at the farm or ranch level and increases the regulatory burden on individual cattle producers.” She also says they’re asking the SEC to limit their proposed rule to avoid unintentional impacts to farms and ranches across the country. The greenhouse gas rule would require businesses up and down the beef supply chain to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, including farms and ranches. The rule would also expose individual producers to additional levels of legal liability. *********************************************************************************** Court Rules GMO QR Codes Unlawful A U.S. District Court says the USDA’s decision to allow genetically engineered foods to only be labeled with a QR code was unlawful. The Center for Food Safety says USDA is required to add additional disclosure options to those foods under the USDA’s Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard. “This is a victory for all Americans,” says Meredith Stevenson, Center for Food Safety staff attorney and counsel in the case. “The decision marks a key step toward ending the food industry’s deceptive and discriminatory GMO food labeling practices, which have kept consumers in the dark by concealing what’s in their products.” The Court sent back to the agency the QR code portions of the 2018 Trump administration rules for GMO labeling that went into effect on January 1 of this year. The Center also says the court now confirmed that the USDA acted unlawfully in allowing standalone QR code and other electronic GMO labeling. *********************************************************************************** Subcommittee Hearing Covers Pros and Cons of “Right to Repair” The House Small Business Subcommittee heard from both sides in the right-to-repair debate in agriculture. Industry Update Dot Com says lawmakers will have to consider measures that would require machine manufacturers to give customers the software, parts, and tools they want to make their own repairs. Ken Taylor of the Equipment Dealers Association expressed concern that giving people access to internal software in their equipment would allow them to change emissions and safety controls in tractors and other implements. While dealers already sell several parts directly to farmers, the manufacturer’s association doesn’t want customers tampering with controls for safety, environmental, and health reasons. Gay Gordon-Byrne represented the Repair Association and said farmers just want to be able to get parts and make repairs themselves. “All this worry about modifying emissions and tweaking tractors isn’t repair,” she says. “We just want to do something simple that’s been complicated by these questions.” *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Soil Health Thankful for Funding The National Corn Growers Association applauded a recent USDA decision to allocate up to $95 million in funding to help farmers accelerate their cover crop adoption. The funding will support Farmers for Soil Health, which works to advance conservation practices to improve soil health across the U.S. The FFSH collaborative is comprised of commodity groups, including the NCGA, the American Soybean Association, the National Pork Board, and the United Soybean Board. “We appreciate the USDA for recognizing the important role that farmers play in combatting climate change,” says NCGA Vice President of Production and Sustainability Nathan Fields. “These funds will help us identify and support practices that work for corn growers, expand the use of cover crops, and build on our efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.” Fields also says the funding will help NCGA reach 30 million acres of cover crops by 2030 through funding cost-share and technical assistance.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 16, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets Early Friday, traders will be checking to see if there is anything new regarding the tentative agreement between rail companies and workers. The latest weather forecasts will also be checked for the possibilities of rain next week in the southwestern U.S. Plains. At 9 a.m. CDT, the University of Michigan will report on U.S. consumer sentiment and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook will be out at 1 p.m. Weather A disturbance from Thursday continues with some showers from Kansas into Minnesota Friday morning. Another system will move from the central Rockies into the Central and Northern Plains late in the day and produce another smattering of scattered showers from Kansas northward late today and tonight. Most of the rest of the country will remain dry with above-normal temperatures, heavily influenced by warm lows this morning.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 15, 2022 |
USDA Investing $2.8 Billion in Climate-Smart Commodities Partnerships and Projects Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the USDA is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects under the first pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity. USDA’s initial investment of $1 billion is expected to triple to more than $3 billion in pilot projects that will create market opportunities for American commodities produced using climate-smart practices. These projects will expand markets for climate-smart commodities, leverage greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production, and provide meaningful benefits to production agriculture. Applicants submitted more than 450 project proposals for the first round of funding. “There is strong and growing interest in the private sector and among consumers for food that’s grown in a climate-friendly way,” Vilsack says. The strength of the 70 projects led USDA to increase its investment from the $1 billion announced earlier this year. More information on Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities and program details are available at usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NACD: “Leave No Producer Behind” The National Association of Conservation Districts is one of 70 partners selected to participate in USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities Program. The NACD will receive a grant of up to $90 million over three years for technical, financial, and marketing assistance. The association intends to advance grassroots efforts that ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet growing demand and have access to climate-smart commodity markets. The NACD’s goal is to leave no producer behind. “We’re thrilled about the opportunity to invest in local communities through the Climate-Smart Commodities Program,” says NACD President Michael Crowder. “We know that producers are more likely to implement climate-smart practices if transition risks are minimized and they have ready access to profitable market opportunities.” Roughly 70 percent of land in the lower 48 states is privately owned, which means implementing sound conservation practices relies on individual producers. This assistance will support producers in making sound conservation decisions. *********************************************************************************** Scott Speaks On Soil Health, Regenerative Practices After House Ag Hearing House Agriculture Committee Chair David Scott spoke after a hearing titled “Soil Health Practices and Programs that Support Regenerative Agriculture. ”As I noted after my first hearing as Chair in 2021, changing weather patterns have introduced significant risks to agricultural production, forest resources, and the economy will affect risk-management tools, financial markets, and global food security,” Scott says. “The risks to agriculture are why topics like soil health are important to consider.” He also says the witnesses at the hearing provided the committee with valuable insight to help them better understand the conservation and economic benefits of soil health practices and how they support regenerative agriculture. “The lessons we learned through the Dust Bowl led to the creation of the Natural Resources Conservation Service,” Scott adds. “In the face of growing climate challenges, managing soil health is one of the most effective ways farmers can increase productivity and protect natural resources.” *********************************************************************************** Nestle Getting Into the “Fake-Milk” Market Nestle is trying to establish a presence in the animal-free dairy market by working with Perfect Day, a startup company trying to create a milk-like beverage from microflora. The genetically-engineered microflora will be programmed to produce proteins similar to cow’s milk, but Nestle says the microflora milk will have a smaller environmental footprint. Nestle says it will try out the new beverage in a handful of stores later this year. The company says it’s only the beginning of new dairy products. “Innovating alongside leaders like Nestle is a key part of how we’re making an impact,” says Perfect Day CEO Ryan Pandya. Perfect Day is also working with several other manufacturers to bring animal-free milks to market. They’re working with Betterland Foods, another new company that introduced lactose-free milk in whole or creamy varieties. Tomorrow Farms introduced its Bored Cow Flavored Milk brand that uses Perfect Day’s animal-free whey proteins. *********************************************************************************** Ten Semi-Finalists Advance in Ag Innovation Challenge The American Farm Bureau, in partnership with Farm Credit, announced that ten teams advanced to the semifinal round of the 2023 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. “The future of agriculture depends on innovative solutions to the challenges that we’re facing today,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “The entrepreneurs behind the start-up companies we’re recognizing are committed to helping rural communities and supporting farmers and ranchers in their mission to provide the food, fuel, and fiber we all rely on.” The competition is an opportunity for individuals to showcase ideas and business innovations in agriculture. It’s the ninth year of the challenge, which was the first national business competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs launching food and agriculture businesses. The ten semi-finalist teams are being awarded $10,000 each and will compete at the AFBF convention in Puerto Rico. Four teams will then advance to the final competition during the annual convention.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 15, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets Fingers crossed, USDA is expected to have weekly export sales data, updated through September 8 available at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, data that was stopped as of August 11 after technical issues got in the way. Also at 7:30 a.m., there will be weekly U.S. jobless claims, August retail sales and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. At 9:15 a.m., the Federal Reserve's report on industrial production will be out, followed by natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. and a soybean crush estimate for August from the National Oilseeds Processors Association later Thursday morning. Weather Weak disturbances continue to move from the West into the Northern Plains, producing more scattered showers on Thursday. Another little disturbance will create scattered showers farther south through the Central and Southern Plains as well. These storms may be briefly strong enough this afternoon and early evening to become severe, but any moderate to heavy rain will be isolated. The few areas that do receive rain will be happy to do so for winter wheat planting, though there may be some delays for corn and soybean maturity. Outside of the rain potential, it continues to be hot in the middle of the country as a ridge of high pressure is largely in control.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 14, 2022 |
August Consumer Price Index Increases The Consumer Price Index increased 0.1 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis after being unchanged in July. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday Increases in the shelter, food, and medical care indexes were the largest contributors to the broad-based monthly all items increase. The food index increased 0.8 percent in August, the smallest monthly increase in that index since December 2021. The food at home index rose 0.7 percent in August as all six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The index for other food at home rose 1.1 percent, while the index for cereals and bakery products rose 1.2 percent over the month. The meats, poultry, fish, and eggs index, the fruits and vegetables index, and the nonalcoholic beverages index all increased 0.5 percent in August. The index for dairy and related products increased 0.3 percent over the month, the smallest increase in that index since November 2021. *********************************************************************************** Executive Order Seeks Advancement of Biotechnology An Executive Order by President Joe Biden announced this week focuses on advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing innovation. Specifically, the order seeks innovative solutions in health, climate change, energy, food security, agriculture, supply chains, and national and economic security. The White House says, “For biotechnology and biomanufacturing to help us achieve our societal goals, the United States needs to invest in foundational scientific capabilities.” Of note, the order will bolster federal investment in key research and development areas, boost sustainable biomass production, create climate-smart incentives for American agriculture, and expand market opportunities for bioenergy and biobased products. Within 180 days, the order directs the Agriculture Secretary to issue a report assessing how to use biotechnology and biomanufacturing for food and agriculture innovation. This includes improving sustainability and land conservation, increasing food quality and nutrition, increasing and protecting crop yields, protecting against plant and animal pests and diseases, and cultivating alternative food sources. *********************************************************************************** Organic Trade Reaches $3.4 Billion in 2021 USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reported organic trade reached $3.4 billion in 2021. Since 2011, there has been an uptick in the total value of imported organic products, partially because more products are being tracked and partially because more high-value organic products, such as blueberries and squash, are being imported into the United States. The United States also exports organic food, and those exports have been steadily rising since 2011, reaching $0.7 billion in 2021. For example, the United States exported 2.4 thousand metric tons of organic fresh cultivated blueberries, with more than 90 percent headed to Canada in 2021. In the same year, the United States imported 41.5 thousand metric tons of organic fresh cultivated blueberries. Importers of organic products must either be USDA-certified or belong to a trading partner with an organic recognition agreement with the United States. Countries with such agreements include Canada, the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. *********************************************************************************** North American Combine Continue Unit Sales Growth in August, Tractors Mixed Combine sales grew for August in both the U.S. and Canada, while total tractors fell in the U.S., but grew in Canada, according to the latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Total U.S. ag equipment unit sales rose above the five-year average for the first time since April 2022. U.S. total farm tractor sales fell 11.7 percent for August compared to 2021, while combine sales for the month grew 25.8 percent to 790 units sold, making for a three-month growth streak for that segment. In Canada, growth in all segments led Canadian unit sales to its first positive year-over-year month in unit sales since January 2022. Overall unit sales in tractors were up 7.2 percent, and combine sales grew 33.1 percent to 221 units sold. Year-to-date farm tractor unit sales are down 6.7 percent in Canada, while harvesters cut their losses down to 13.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** Lawsuit Seeks Documents from EPA Regarding Dicamba Harms The Center for Food Safety this week filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency. The lawsuit claims the EPA is unlawfully withholding records about the impacts of dicamba. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California, alleges that EPA withheld public records from an agency report showing that control measures in its 2020 dicamba registration decision failed to reduce the number, severity, or geographic extent of dicamba-related incidents compared to prior seasons. Meredith Stevenson, staff attorney at the Center for Food Safety, says the action "reflects the agency's pattern of thwarting the public's access to information under FOIA." In June 2022, the center submitted a FOIA request to EPA, seeking documents referenced in the agency's December 2021 report on dicamba. The EPA has yet to produce any records, prompting CFS to now sue under FOIA law. The lawsuit comes amid an ongoing lawsuit challenging the legality of EPA's 2020 registration of over-the-top dicamba pesticide uses on dicamba-resistant cotton and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** Farm Foundation Hosting Antimicrobial Stewardship Forum Farm Foundation this week announced a forum on Antimicrobial Stewardship in Agriculture: How Far Have We Come and What's Next? The free online forum is set for Tuesday, September 27, at 9:00 am CDT. Farm Foundation says antimicrobial resistance poses a serious public health threat and has the potential to affect society, the economy and the health of animals and humans. The latest Forum will examine scientific evidence related to antimicrobial use and the effects of antimicrobial resistance in agriculture. The forum will also address key public policies shaping discussions around stewardship, resistance and what challenges need to be addressed in the long and short term. Shari Rogge-Fidler, Farm Foundation President and CEO, says, “We're proud to provide a space where farmers and industry stakeholders alike can engage on a crucial topic.” The event is being held virtually via Zoom and is free to attend, but registration is required. Find details and registration at: farmfoundation.org/AntimicrobialForum.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 14, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's producer price index for August may be anti-climactic Wednesday, but will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT followed by a new round of crop estimates from Statistics Canada. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. and includes weekly ethanol production. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and keep an eye on outside market concerns after Tuesday's sell-off in the stock market. Weather A ridge of high pressure is building over the middle of the country Wednesday. Temperatures will continue to increase for most areas, especially with regards to morning lows. Disturbances off in the West will move northeast, producing scattered showers for the Northern Plains. Some isolated showers will also get into portions of the Central and Southern Plains. The heat and overall dryness will continue to be unfavorable for those looking to plant winter wheat.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 13, 2022 |
USDA Forecasts US Corn, Soybean, and Cotton Production Down from 2021 Corn, soybean, and cotton production is down from 2021, according to Monday's Crop Production report issued by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Corn production is down eight percent from last year, forecast at 13.9 billion bushels, while soybean growers are expected to decrease their production one percent from 2021, forecast at 4.38 billion bushels. Meanwhile, cotton production is down 21 percent from 2021 at 13.8 million 480-pound bales. Planted corn area is estimated at 88.6 million acres, down one from the previous estimate. Area planted to soybeans is estimated at 87.5 million acres, down one percent from the previous estimate, but cotton planted area is estimated at 13.8 million acres, up 11 percent from the previous estimate. The U.S. season-average soybean price is forecast at $14.35 per bushel, unchanged from last month. Meanwhile, USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand report raised the season-average corn price ten cents to $6.75 per bushel. USDA also lowered the season-average farm price for wheat 25 cents to $9.00 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** The Fertilizer Institute urges Congress Act to Avoid a Freight Rail Shutdown The Fertilizer Institute over the weekend again urged Congress to take action to avoid a freight rail shutdown on September 16. TFI sent a letter to Congressional leaders pushing for intervention to prevent a stoppage from occurring. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "A stoppage hasn't yet happened, but we are already feeling the negative effects of non-resolution." Rail carriers announced Friday evening that shipments of fertilizer products, such as ammonia – a key fertilizer and building block for approximately three-fourths of all fertilizer – will start coming off rail networks this week. Rosenbusch contends the situation will get exponentially worse every day there is no resolution, adding, "if they cannot reach an agreement, Congress must act to avoid an economic catastrophe that will only add to inflation and increase consumer pain." Congress can prevent rail workers from striking and has done so before, in 1986 when then-President Ronald Reagan intervened in the strike of workers for Maine Central railway. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Ask USTR To Protect Growers from Unfair Practices by Mexico Lawmakers led by Florida Senator Marco Rubio recently asked U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to investigate the flood of surplus agricultural products from Mexico. The request, filed as a petition under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, says actions by Mexico over the last two decades have burdened and restricted U.S. commerce. The lawmakers say that for more than 20 years, Mexico has leveraged heavy subsidies and low wages in a scheme to conduct a “conquest of external markets” and displace Florida’s seasonal and perishable agricultural industry from the domestic U.S. market. Specifically, the petition names fruits and vegetables grown with subsidized horticultural infrastructure and other forms of Mexican government support as a marketplace burden for U.S. growers, and may allow Mexico the ability to set market prices that harm American consumers. Provisions of the amended Trade Act of 1974 gives USTR authority to investigate and redress unreasonable trade practices that burden and restrict U.S. commerce. *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity in Households with Children Reached Two-decade Low in 2021 USDA’s Economic Research Service reported Monday food insecurity in U.S. households with children reached a two-decade low in 2021. The Economic Research Service monitors the prevalence of food insecurity in U.S. households with children by measuring food insecurity for the household overall, as well as for adults and children separately. The first measure, food insecurity in households with children, indicates that at least one person in the household—whether an adult, a child, or both—was food insecure. The second measure, food insecurity among children, indicates that households were unable at times to provide adequate, nutritious food for their children. Both annual measures improved in 2021. In 2021, 12.5 percent of households with children were food insecure, a significant decrease from 14.8 percent in 2020 and the lowest point in two decades. The prevalence of food insecurity among children in 2021 was 6.2 percent, down from 7.6 percent in 2020. The decline means that in 2021 nearly 2.5 million fewer children lived in households that experienced food insecurity. *********************************************************************************** Organic Produce Association Elects Chairman The Organic Produce Association recently elected Theo Cristantes Jr as chairman. Cristantes is the chief operations officer for Wholesum and has been serving in an acting capacity since the fall of last year. The Organic Produce Association consists of members in the organic produce industry who focus on science-based policymaking and the ability to be innovative while respecting the tradition of organics and the integrity of the USDA Organic Seal. Crisantes, a trained agronomist, has worked for more than 20 years in the organic produce industry, growing certified organic tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, and eggplants at his family's third-generation farming operation. Wholesum currently supports over 21.8 million square feet of greenhouses and grows 2,500 acres of in-ground produce. Crisantes says, "I look forward to working with all our OPA members to address key issues with the goal of expanding the production and consumption of organic produce." *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again The nation's average gas price declined for the thirteenth consecutive week, down 7.6 cents from a week ago to $3.67 per gallon. The national average is down 26.9 cents from a month ago but 52.3 cents higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price declined 5.5 cents last week and stands at $5.01 per gallon. However, Gas Buddy's Patrick De Haan says, "we're seeing drastically different price behaviors from coast to coast, with some areas seeing noticeable increases while others are seeing decreases." Refinery issues in California are leading to increases in areas supplied by the state's refineries, including Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and California. Gasoline supply remains tight for the East Coast with some modest moves up, while prices continue to edge lower in the Plains, South and areas of the Great Lakes. Last week saw an 8.8-million-barrel rise in U.S. oil inventories, while U.S. gasoline demand fell 5.4 percent last week.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 13, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release its report on consumer prices for August at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, watched by a big crowd looking for clues to future Fed policy. Traders are still digesting USDA's new estimates on Monday and will keep an eye on weather as well as the response of outside markets to Tuesday's CPI report. The Treasury department reports on the federal budget at 1 p.m. Weather A ridge of high pressure is moving from the Rockies into the Plains on Tuesday and temperatures will rise in response. The ridge also comes with dryness as it pushes a system into the Northeast. The heat and dryness will exacerbate drought conditions in the Plains for winter wheat planting, but will help to dry-down corn and soybeans for harvest. Across the West, several small disturbances will make for some showers which will move northeast through the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies over the next several days.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 12, 2022 |
July Beef Exports Top $1 Billion, Pork Exports Behind Last Year American beef exports again topped the $1 billion mark in July and posted the fifth-largest volume ever. July beef exports totaled over 126,500 metric tons, three percent higher year-over-year. Export value topped the $1 billion mark for a sixth time this year, finishing at $1.006 billion in July. “Global demand for U.S. beef continues to be amazingly resilient, especially at the retail level,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Export value per head of fed slaughter is on a record pace at more than $475. U.S. pork exports topped 208,000 metric tons in July, six percent lower than last year. July export value reached $625 million, five percent lower than 2021. “July pork exports were below last year, but the good news is the per-unit price of U.S. pork is trending higher in the international marketplace.” July lamb muscle cuts reached 161 metric tons, up from 49 last year. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for the Rural High-Speed Internet Program Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is accepting applications for its ReConnect Program loans and grants to expand access to high-speed internet for millions of people in rural America. The agency is making over $1 billion available for the program, a critical piece of the effort to connect every American to affordable and reliable high-speed internet. “Ensuring that the people of rural America get connected with reliable high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of the country,” Vilsack says. “That’s why high-speed internet is an important part of USDA Rural Development’s work with rural communities.” USDA is accepting applications for loans with available funds of $150 million, grants with available funds of $700 million, and combination loan/grant awards using $300 million under the ReConnect Program. “Reliable high-speed internet opens the world’s marketplace to rural business owners,” Vilsack adds. The application deadline is November 2. Go to rd.usda.gov for information. *********************************************************************************** GAO Reviews the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program During 2020 and 2021, the USDA’s Farm Service Agency provided $31 billion in aid to more than 950,000 producers of agricultural commodities, including crops, dairy, and livestock. The goal was to help offset losses and costs associated with COVID-19. The Government Accountability Office found problems in the process the FSA used to review claims under CFAP submitted by producers. For example, the agency reviewed the claims of 90 producers, and over half didn’t provide support for their payments. GAO says $661.5 million distributed primarily for livestock and other commodities went to high-income producers whose average annual adjusted gross income exceeded $900,000 over three years. The average payment per producer was highest in California at over $97,600. Iowa, California, and Nebraska each received over $2 billion in CFAP payments. Eight other states, including Minnesota, Kansas, and South Dakota received at least $1 billion. Seven individual operations received at least $3 million in total payments. *********************************************************************************** NGFA Wants Intervention in Rail Disputes The National Grain and Feed Association asked Congress to intervene, if necessary, to prevent any interruptions of rail service that could occur if negotiations fail between carriers and labor groups. Last week, the association sent letters to the leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation, and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Association members want Congress to prevent a rail stoppage “of any duration,” noting that uninterrupted rail service is vital to the American agricultural economy. “The U.S. rail network moves critical agricultural inputs and significant quantities of agricultural products,” the letter says. “These essential items are transported by rail to domestic facilities and ports for exports abroad. A complete stoppage of the rail system would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities resulting in devastating consequences to the country’s national and global security.” They also say most freight railroads lack the capacity to make up for any downtime. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Meets with Indo-Pacific Framework Partners U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo hosted counterparts from the 13 Indo-Pacific Economic Framework partner countries. Those partners represent over 40 percent of the world’s economy. At the first official in-person Ministerial meeting, the ministers had positive and constructive discussions and announced a substantial milestone in their pursuit of the framework. “This meeting was a chance to deepen our partnerships and fill in the details about how we will work collectively to address the challenges and opportunities that will define the 21st century,” says Tai. As the meeting concluded, the partners reached a consensus on ministerial statements for each of the four IPEF pillars, including trade, supply chains, clean economies, and fair economies. “After days of intensive discussions, we made real progress toward that goal, and I’m excited to continue developing this Framework, which will unlock enormous economic value for our region and be an example for the world.” *********************************************************************************** Federal Reserve Makes Observations on Ag Economy Last week, the Federal Reserve Board released its August Beige Book update, which summarizes the Fed’s commentary on current economic conditions. The report included several observations on the U.S. agricultural economy. In the Sixth District around Atlanta, demand for agricultural products remains strong. Hot weather and dry spells damaged crop yields, particularly corn. In the Seventh District of Chicago, ag income prospects for 2022 were little changed as most producers will likely turn a profit. In the Eighth District of St. Louis, conditions got moderately worse since the previous report, and finding enough quality labor is listed as the biggest concern. Agricultural conditions in the Ninth District around Minneapolis strengthened modestly since the previous report, and 80 percent of farm lenders said incomes in their area increased in the second quarter compared to last year. In the Eleventh District around Dallas, overall drought conditions slightly improved after some significant rain in August.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 12, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Traders will return from the weekend, checking the latest weather forecasts and news from around the world, especially events in Ukraine and China. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Production and WASDE reports at 11 a.m. USDA's Crop Progress report will be out at 3 p.m. Weather A storm system wound up near Chicago will move through the northern Midwest on Monday, with areas of showers arcing through the East Coast and down into the Southeast as the day heats up. Heavier rain has been falling over northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, where some flooding has occurred and may continue today. Cooler temperatures have filled in behind the system across the Corn Belt over the weekend but will be short-lived as the western heat pushes eastward this week.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 9, 2022 |
McKalip Nomination for Chief Ag Negotiator Heads to Full Senate The Senate Finance Committee unanimously voted to move Doug McKalip’s nomination to be USTR’s Chief Agricultural Negotiator to the full Senate for a final vote. U.S. agriculture groups reacted positively to the news. “It’s clear there is bipartisan momentum behind both his nomination and the need to open markets for America’s farmers who rely on trade,” says Brian Kuehl (KEEL), Farmers For Free Trade Executive Director. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says the vote comes at “an important time” as current and future trading partners look to the U.S. to help meet the growing demand for food, fuel, and fiber. The U.S. Meat Export Federation is asking the Senate for swift approval of McKalip in the upcoming vote. McKalip’s future boss, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, says, “Doug’s decades of public service and unparalleled knowledge of agricultural and food security issues will be a major asset to our office.” *********************************************************************************** Retailers “Moderately Optimistic” About Fall Fertilizer Sales 2022 has been a challenge for ag retailers and their customers due to supply shortages and high prices. Crop Life magazine says global uncertainty has affected key fertilizer sources like Russia, China, and Ukraine, adding even more stress to the marketplace last spring. Looking ahead to fall, the view of most ag retailers is mixed. Steven Page of EDC Ag Products in Texas says, “We’re bullish on fertilizer sales this fall. Higher-than-expected commodity prices and falling fertilizer prices mean end users will be replacing nutrients in their soil.” Matthew Taylor of Nutrien Ag Solutions in Colorado says he’s also optimistic. “Application season should be strong as long as there’s a good application window,” he says. “Continuing supply chain challenges and overseas events are still a drag on the industry, but overall, the fall application season should be good.” Even less-than-positive retailers say their outlook could change with the right conditions. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Reviews Genetically-Modified Tomato The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service reviewed a new tomato variety from Norfolk Plant Sciences. The tomato was modified to alter its color to purple and enhance the nutritional quality. The agency says it found the plant is unlikely to pose an increased plant pest risk compared to other cultivated tomatoes and is not subject to regulation. That means, from a plant pest risk perspective, this plant may be safely grown and bred in the U.S. The gene-edited tomato is high in antioxidants believed to fight cancer and heart disease. A Rabobank report says interest in specialty crops should continue growing worldwide. Gene-editing technology like CRISPR (crisper) lets scientists design a plant without introducing foreign genes and should help reduce the recent controversy over GMOs. “We expect that specialty crops like fruits and vegetables with output traits to be among the first new GMOs to hit the market,” the report says. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Competition Focusing on “Calming Benefits” The Dairy Management Incorporated’s New Product Competition is accepting applications for innovative products that focus on dairy’s qualities related to calming. The program used to be known as the National Dairy Council New Product Competition. It’s open to U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to develop products in line with industry and consumer insights to uncover innovative dairy-based products that offer calming benefits. Research shows that, with a heightened emphasis on mental and emotional well-being, consumers are looking for products that calm. There is projected growth associated with products that calm, and these are of particular interest to Gen Z consumers. Successful entries will demonstrate innovation and provide value to consumers. The judging panel includes experts from across the dairy industry. The winning team will earn $8,000, with second place receiving $5,000, and $3,000 going to third place. The application deadline is January 16, 2023. For more information, go to usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Addresses 2022 Public Final Charge Rule The Biden administration and the Department of Homeland Security released the 2022 Public Charge Final Rule. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the move represents an important step towards ensuring that all who are eligible for USDA’s nutrition assistance programs can access their crucial benefits. The rule clarifies the policy that’s been in place for most of the last 20 years, definitively allowing eligible immigrants to apply for and receive non-cash government benefits like SNAP or WIC without fear of any negative impact on their immigration status. “This action ensures faithful implementation of the law, one that will have a meaningful impact on immigrant communities and help give them the nourishment to lead happier and healthier lives,” Vilsack says. “Immigrants and their families have the right to access the programs for which Congress has made them eligible.” He also says it’s a chance to advance nutrition security for generations to come. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Avian Flu Still a Threat to U.S. Poultry Supplies A report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says the widespread outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza that hit U.S. poultry production has subsided. Case numbers significantly dropped as temperatures rose and the migratory season for wild birds ended. However, the risk of another outbreak this fall remains elevated, and the stakes for poultry producers will be high. Poultry product values had increased substantially before this year’s outbreak due to tight supplies and strong consumer demand for animal protein products. The added burden of supply shocks caused by HPAI made tight market conditions even worse, sending values skyrocketing. ‘Fortunately for U.S. poultry exporters, the current world views on HPAI trade restrictions have relaxed since the last major outbreak,” says Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. The 2014-2015 HPAI outbreak forced producers to euthanize 43.2 million laying hens and 7.3 million turkeys. The cost to the industry was estimated at $1.6 billion.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 9, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Friday's docket. While the weather forecasts are becoming less important for this year's row crops, traders are still keeping an eye out for winter wheat planting and spring wheat harvest conditions. Traders also continue to keep watch over news from Ukraine, Russia and China and outside markets. Weather A strong cold front has pushed through the Northern Plains and is moving through the Central Plains and Upper Midwest early Friday. The front is bringing in a shot of much colder fall-like temperatures and bands of showers are developing behind the front as well. Temperatures out ahead of the front still remain above normal, which continues to stress the late stages of filling corn and soybeans and prevent much winter wheat planting from occurring as well.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 8, 2022 |
$400 Million Available to Create Regional Food Business Centers Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced the availability of approximately $400 million to create USDA Regional Food Business Centers. The centers will provide local and regional food systems coordination, technical assistance, and capacity-building services. Vilsack says, "Regional Food Business Centers will serve as USDA's cornerstone in the development of the local and regional supply chains." USDA will fund at least six regional centers, including a national tribal center and at least one center serving each of three targeted areas. The targeted areas include counties on the U.S./Mexico border, persistent poverty communities in the Delta and the Southeast, high-need areas of Appalachia, and centers in other regions. USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt says the new centers “will decrease barriers and improve supply chain linkages.” The effort seeks to help farmers and businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state and local resources. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Supports Livestock Regulatory Protection Act The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association voiced support to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee regarding the Livestock Regulatory Protection Act Wednesday. During a committee hearing, NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart told lawmakers, “NCBA strongly supports the Livestock Regulatory Protection Act, which protects farmers and ranchers from onerous regulation.” The legislation aims to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing Clean Air Act Title V (5) permits for emissions like carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, water vapor, or methane that result from livestock production. NCBA says the emissions are naturally occurring due to cattle’s biological functions and cattle producers continue to employ innovative practices to mitigate the impact of these emissions on the environment. NCBA adds methane emissions from cattle account for just two percent of total U.S. emissions. American Farm Bureau Federation Vice President Scott VanderWal also voiced support for the legislation during the hearing. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Household Food Insecurity in 2021 Unchanged From 2020 Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service released Wednesday shows in 2021, 89.8 percent of U.S. households were food secure throughout the entire year. Food secure means they had access to food at all times for all household members during the year. The remaining 10.2 percent of households were food insecure at least some time during the year, including 3.8 percent that experienced very low food security. In households reporting very low food security, the food intake of one or more household members was reduced, and their eating patterns were disrupted at times because the household lacked money and other resources for obtaining food. The 2021 prevalence of food insecurity, at 10.2 percent, was statistically unchanged from 2020. Very low food security was not significantly different from its 3.9 percent rate in 2020. The Economic Research Service monitors the food security status of households in the United States through an annual nationwide survey. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek Additional Wildfire Fighting Resources A group of western lawmakers this week asked the Department of Agriculture and Interior Department for additional wildfire fighting resources. The 25 lawmakers asked the federal government to assist in continuing to fight fires aggressively, communicate clearly and take administrative steps now to prepare additional personnel for when they are needed. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the lawmakers say, “As you are well aware, wildfires do not respect jurisdictional boundaries, so constant communication between public and private entities is crucial.” The letter points out that recent reports suggest the United States Forest Service faces a significant wildfire staffing shortfall despite the recent pay increase included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. USDA and DOI can surge additional personnel to help when the firefighting season is underway. The lawmakers say, “we ask you do everything you can to start that process now.” *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Winter Releases Will be at Minimum Rates Drought conditions along the Missouri River Basin mean winter releases from Gavins Point Dam will be at a minimum 12,000 cubic feet per second this winter. While July brought much-needed moisture to the Missouri River Basin, August returned to the warm and dry conditions seen over the last two seasons. August runoff was 0.9-million-acre-feet, 62 percent of average above Sioux City, and 0.6 million-acre-feet, or 49 percent of average above Gavins Point Dam. The 2022 calendar year forecast for the upper basin, updated on September 1, is 20.2 million acre-feet million-acre feet, 78 percent of average. The average annual runoff for the upper basin is 25.8-million-acre-feet. According to the National Drought Mitigation Center, drought conditions in the basin have worsened over the past month. Seventy-four percent of the basin is experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions, with seven percent of that being extreme or exceptional drought. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Foundation Partnering with Grow with Google The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture has partnered with Grow with Google to train 2,000 teachers on digital skills. The effort seeks to reach 200,000 students in rural communities by the end of the 2023 school year. The Foundation is bolstering agricultural education curriculum through the Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows Program, a fellowship that will allow educators in agricultural regions to teach students where their food comes from. Throughout the eight-month program, fellows will develop place-based curriculum that incorporates agriculture, technology and key digital skills into an Applied Digital Skills lessons. The lessons will be available, for free, to all educators interested in teaching students about food, fuel and fiber. Foundation executive director Daniel Meloy says, “We hope this program empowers teachers to introduce their students to the exciting world of agriculture, while also teaching them an array of technical skills.” To learn more and apply, visit agfoundation.org.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 8, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets In case you missed the earlier memo, USDA is having technical difficulties and won't provide a new weekly export sales report until September 15. There will be a report of U.S. weekly jobless claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage is due out at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Weather Hot temperatures continue from the West into the Plains and Upper Midwest Thursday with triple-digit readings yet again in some areas. However, a strong cold front is dipping down from the Canadian Prairies and will be bringing much colder air with it. Temperatures will fall more than 20 degrees behind the front and narrow bands of showers will develop in the Northern Plains. Other areas of the country will remain dry with drought increasing in the Central and Southern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 7, 2022 |
August Ag Economy Barometer Increases Farmer sentiment improved in August as the Purdue-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 14 points above its July reading to 117. Both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations increased last month. Producers were less worried about their farm’s financial situation than in July, although they remain concerned about a possible cost-price squeeze. When asked about their biggest concerns for the next year, more than half of respondents chose higher input costs. Other concerns include rising interest rates, input availability, and lower output prices. Despite this month's improvement in sentiment, all three indices remain well below year-ago levels. Finally, this month's survey revealed an uptick in the percentage of farmers engaged with companies offering payments to sequester carbon. However, just one percent of respondents said they've signed a carbon contract, with the majority of those choosing not to sign, suggesting that payment rates offered remain too low. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Livestock Disease Indemnity Valuation Comments The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on a new approach to indemnity valuation and a new indemnity framework. The advanced notice describes two structural changes to the indemnity regulations. The first is the use of an annual indemnity value table to standardize the indemnification process and resolve discrepancies between disease programs. Under the new approach, APHIS would collaborate with other USDA agencies, including the Farm Service Agency’s Livestock Indemnity Program, to develop USDA indemnity values and the methodology to determine them. The values would be published online annually. Second, the proposal describes an approach to standardize allowances for appraisal when an indemnity value cannot be calculated using the tables or when a producer elects to appeal the value based on extraordinary circumstances. This approach would resolve known challenges with indemnification based on fair market appraisal by an appraiser. The public comment period is open through November 6, 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA NASS to Review Acreage Information USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service announced Tuesday the agency will review all available acreage data for select crops. USDA NASS will review planted and harvested acreage for chickpeas, corn, cotton, dry edible peas, lentils, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets, in preparation for the September Crop Production report. The reviewed information includes survey data, satellite-based data, and the latest information from USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency. If the data review justifies any changes, NASS will publish updated planted and harvested acreage estimates in the September 12 Crop Production report. USDA says it is a normal practice for NASS to review data in September for many of these crops. The review typically takes place in October for corn, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets. However, USDA says the datasets are sufficiently complete this year to consider adjustments in September. In October, NASS will review acreage for canola, dry edible beans, and sunflowers. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Intend to Plant More Corn Next Year U.S. farmers plan to grow five percent more corn acres next year, according to a recent Farm Futures survey. The survey found farmers expect to plant 94.3 million acres of corn next spring, an increase of 4.5 million acres compared to 2022. The survey collected data from July 13 to August 1, 2022, from nearly 700 farmers. If the estimate proves correct, it will be the largest corn acreage planted in the United States since 2013, when farmers planted 95.4 million acres of corn. The Farm Futures survey reports farmers intend to plant 97.3 million acres of soybeans in 2023, down nearly 700,000 acres from the 2022 crop year. The survey also shows an increase in wheat acres in 2023, at 36.6 million acres, up 7.5 percent from 2022. Combined, corn, soybeans and wheat acres total 230.5 million acres, according to the survey, up two percent from the 224.8 million acres planted this year. *********************************************************************************** Food Insecurity in Africa Peaked Early During Pandemic At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, projections indicated the number of people experiencing food insecurity would increase. In a recent USDA Economic Research Service study, researchers used World Bank household survey data collected during the pandemic to assess food insecurity in four sub-Saharan Africa countries. Researchers tracked three levels of food insecurity intensity—mild, moderate, and severe—based on household responses to the Food Insecurity Experience Scale. They observed a sharp increase in reported food insecurity in the early months of the pandemic. In Ethiopia and Nigeria, the rate of moderate food insecurity reported increased from about zero to between 30 and 70 percent by June 2020. In Burkina Faso (boo-keen-uh fah-so) and Malawi (Muh-louhg-ee), where data was available beyond 2020, researchers observed gradual declines in food insecurity. At the end of June 2021, about 15 percent of households in Burkina Faso still reported moderate food insecurity, as did about 50 percent of Malawi households. *********************************************************************************** Vytelle Awarded for Global Sustainability The Business Intelligence Group Tuesday named Vytelle, a precision livestock company, as a Sustainability Leadership Award winner in the 2022 Sustainability Awards program. The Sustainability Awards honor those who have made sustainability an integral part of their business practice or overall mission. The global cattle industry is facing what Vytelle calls the triple challenge. Farmers are facing a growing demand for protein driven by the upsurge of consumers demanding meat and milk be produced sustainably. This means farmers must improve and increase productivity, while also improving efficiency by producing with less. Vytelle has built the first integrated livestock technology platform to accelerate genetic progress in cattle. Farmers who use the platform to identify their most valuable and elite genetics will increase the reliability of their intended mating decisions and accelerate their genetic outcomes. Vytelle Chief Executive Officer Kerryann Kocher says, “We’re honored to receive the Sustainability Leadership Award and continue our partnerships with progressive cattle farmers to deliver our mission.”
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 7, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets The launch of the iPhone 14 is expected Wednesday, a day when there shouldn't be much competition from other news. At 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the U.S. Commerce Department releases the trade deficit for July and provides more detailed export data for USDA to release later Wednesday morning. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book follows at 1 p.m. Traders will keep an eye on news from Ukraine and China, as well as the latest weather forecasts. Weather A ridge of high pressure continues to have a strong foothold in the western U.S. where heat continues. The heat has leaked out into the Plains as well in advance of the next system that will move through the Canadian Prairies today. Some isolated showers will be found there as well as into the Southeast, otherwise most of the country will be dry today.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 6, 2022 |
World Food Prices Continue Falling as Supply Levels Rise Global food prices dropped for a fifth-straight month after a seasonal rise in supplies took place and demand dropped for some products. The northern hemisphere wheat harvest is helping to ease supply concerns as more grain moves out of Ukraine. A U.N. index of world food costs dropped 1.9 percent in August and remains at its lowest level since January. While consumers will feel some relief, the declines aren’t as sharp as they were in July, when food prices dropped the most since 2008. Food prices do remain higher than last year. Food costs fell across the board last month, with vegetable oils dropping slightly below last year’s level. More palm oil supplies from Indonesia and seasonally rising outputs in southeast Asia helped to lower prices. Import demand for sunflower oil is subdued. Dairy stocks remained adequate. Major poultry importers reduced purchases, and domestic bovine meat demand in key exporters was weak. *********************************************************************************** Real Estate Lending Pushes Farm Debit Higher The Kansas City Fed says strong growth in farm real estate debt pushed agricultural loan balances higher at commercial banks in the second quarter. Outstanding farm debt increased by five percent from last year, the fastest pace in almost six years. While agricultural real estate loans continued to build, production lending rose more modestly following subdued demand in recent years. Loan performance continued to improve. Recent loan growth supported a slight improvement in the interest margins and income at agricultural banks from last quarter, but bank liquidity remained abundant. The agricultural economy remained steady over the past quarter providing ongoing support to farm finances. With substantially higher production costs and weather risks, incomes could be pressured if commodity prices drop more notably. Despite some growing risks, farm balance sheets remained strong alongside high liquidity, and a sharp increase in farm real estate values also continued to support agricultural credit conditions. *********************************************************************************** California Joins Opposition to Foreign Land Ownership The California legislature passed a bill outlawing land sales to foreign countries to help protect the nation’s food supply. The Washington Examiner says California has a large Central Valley farm belt, where two-thirds of the nation’s fruits and nuts are grown. “Food can, and is, being used as a weapon like we’re seeing in Ukraine,” says the bill’s author, state Senator Melissa Hurtado. “Recent reports have shown that a nation could get leverage by acquiring agricultural land and creating bioweapons that impact our food chain.” The bill would exempt land owned by a foreign government before January 1. It would also direct the state’s Ag Department to release annual reports on the amount of foreign farmland utilized, the type of usage, and “any legislative, regulatory, or administrative policy recommendations in light of the information from the annual report.” Bill supporters say foreign investments in ag land put U.S. food security at risk. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends WIC-Related Formula Flexibilities The USDA is extending a key funding flexibility in the WIC program that’s allowed state agencies and their infant formula manufacturers to work together to provide more options for needy families. Under this flexibility that’s now extended to the end of October, USDA is covering the added cost of non-contract formula to make it financially feasible for states to allow WIC participants to buy alternate sizes, forms, or brand of infant formula. “USDA is committed to maintaining flexibilities to provide continued support to WIC families as the nationwide supply of infant formula recovers,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “WIC families are counting on us, and while the supply of formula is improving, the extended flexibilities will make sure those families can find the formula they need for their babies.” To make the extended flexibility economically feasible, USDA is covering the additional costs of these alternate formulas while supplies remain impacted. *********************************************************************************** EPA Proposes Stopping Authorized Use of Certain Pesticide Ingredients The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to remove 12 chemicals known as PFAS from the current list of inert ingredients approved for use in pesticides to better protect people and the environment. “Exposure to PFAS is an urgent public health and environmental issue in our country, and we’re continuing to work aggressively to reduce the use of these dangerous chemicals,” says Michael Freedhoff, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “Ensuring that these 12 chemicals can no longer be used in pesticides is an important step to protect workers, the public, and the planet.” EPA also says it will take a renewed look at previous PFAS decisions and do a thorough review of its list of chemical substances that have been approved for use as inert ingredients in pesticide products. Those products contain at least one active ingredient and other intentionally-added inert ingredients that improve product performance. *********************************************************************************** Three Years of Biofuel Blending Mandates Coming in November The Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency will announce a rule this year detailing annual biofuel-blending mandates for three years instead of just one year. Three sources told Reuters that the multi-year announcement will provide longer-term certainty to the refining and biofuel industries. Reuters says they’ve been battling over the Renewable Fuel Standard’s annual mandates since it first began. One source who requested anonymity says, “They’re trying to put together a proposal for 2023, 2024, and 2025, where once they have the proposals together, then they don’t have to go back in and don’t have to change or modify the volumes.” According to a legal document filed in July, the EPA has been ordered to propose a rulemaking for 2023 mandates by November 16. While Congress has set the mandates since the RFS began, the EPA will have the authority to set multi-year mandates and make other changes starting next year.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 6, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will be checking up on the latest weather forecasts and any market-related news from over the weekend, including the decision from OPEC's meeting on Monday. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather An old system from the weekend remains a little active on Tuesday, with isolated showers across the southeastern Midwest down to the Southeast on Tuesday. The Plains continue to be dry with heat for much of the region that continues to sap soil moisture ahead of winter wheat planting.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 2, 2022 |
USDA Says Farm Profits To Reach Near-Record High in 2022 USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts inflation-adjusted U.S. net cash farm income to increase by $13.5 billion or 8.7 percent from 2021. Net cash farm income is gross cash income minus cash expenses and will reach $168.5 billion in 2022, the highest level since 2012. In comparison, net farm income is forecast to drop by almost $1 billion from 2021 to $147.7 billion this year. That drop comes after net farm income increased by $44 billion in 2021 to the highest level since 2013. Net farm income is a broader measure of farm sector profitability that incorporates noncash items, including inventory changes, economic depreciation, and gross rental income. Both cash receipts and expenses are forecast to increase. Cash receipts for farm commodities are projected to rise by $66.3 billion or 14 percent from the previous year to reach $525.3 billion this year. Production expenses will also increase by $44 billion to $437.3 billion. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Soybean Acres to Top 100 Million Brazilian farmers will start planting corn, soybeans, and many other crops in September and October. CONAB (KOH-nab), the country’s largest ag forecaster, says if the weather cooperates, the 2022-2023 Brazilian harvest could be the largest ever. During the upcoming season, CONAB says Brazil’s farmers will produce more than 300 million tons of soybeans, corn, cotton, rice, wheat, and soybeans. That’s 14 percent higher than in 2021, during which Brazil’s farmers brought in an estimated 271.4 million tons of grain, an all-time high. The growth of Brazil’s crops is attributed to two factors, including a 2.5 percent rise in planted area and 11 percent higher yields versus 2022. While production costs will be higher in the upcoming season, Brazilian farmers will benefit from high commodity prices, robust global demand, and a favorable exchange rate. Soybeans make up almost half of the total grains produced in Brazil and are projected to reach 5.5 million bushels. *********************************************************************************** First “Triple-Dip” La Nina in This Century The World Meteorological Association says the La Nina weather pattern will last through the end of 2022. That’s the first time this century it will have lasted for three consecutive winters in the northern hemisphere. La Nina conditions in the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean strengthened as trade winds intensified between July and August. The conditions are affecting temperatures and precipitation patterns and making drought conditions and flooding in different parts of the world that much worse. The current WMO forecast shows the current La Nina, which began in September 2020 and continuing during the next six months. La Nina refers to the cooling of ocean surface temperatures coupled with winds and rainfall. It almost always has the opposite effect of El Nino, which is the warm phase of the so-called El Nino Southern Oscillation. The WMO says it is “exceptional” to have three consecutive years with a La Nina weather pattern. *********************************************************************************** Book Teaches New Generation About the “Father of the Green Revolution” A new generation will learn about Norman Borlaug, the “Father of the Green Revolution,” thanks to the newest book from Feeding Minds Press. “Hero for the Hungry” is the story of Borlaug, who dedicated his life’s work to eradicating world hunger. “We are excited to introduce today’s young people to Norman Borlaug,” says Daniel Meloy, executive director of the American Farm Bureau Foundation, which runs the publishing venture. “With ‘Hero for the Hungry,’ we hope his story of science and true American grit inspires young readers to explore how they too can solve hunger issues.” The story follows Borlaug from his humble beginnings on a small farm in Iowa to groundbreaking innovation that helped feed millions in a time of famine by improving the productivity of wheat, earning him a Nobel Prize. “Hero for the Hungry” can be used in a variety of classrooms, including biology, science, agriculture, or history. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Announces 2022 Annual Meeting The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association invites everyone in the industry to its 15th Annual Meeting and Cattle Producer’s Forum in Nashville, Tennessee, December 8-10. On Friday, December 9th, policy committees and members will review the past year’s successes and determine policy goals for the upcoming year. With significant progress getting made on cattle market reform legislation this year, the Annual Meeting will be a critical time to reflect and prepare for the next session of Congress. On Saturday, December 10, USCA will host the premier Cattle Producer’s Forum to discuss current marketing trends. Following a Washington, D.C. update from USCA’s lobbying team, the group will hear from multiple cattle markets specialists talk about the 2023 market forecast. The forum will also host a Consumers’ Perspective Panel discussion, which will include the unlikely relationship between the digital currency Bitcoin and beef production. For more information or to sign up, go to cattlemensmeeting.square.site. *********************************************************************************** USGC Talks Biotech Corn With Japanese Regulators The U.S. Grains Council recently organized a trip to the U.S. for Japanese regulators involved in that country’s food, feed, and environmental approvals of biotech corn. While in the U.S., the group met with USGC staff, U.S. government regulators, biotech seed companies, and industry organizations. They also met with U.S. corn producers and companies involved in the production, distribution, and exports of U.S. corn to Japan. The meetings helped educate the Japanese regulators about biotech corn events in the pipeline for entry into Japan’s regulatory system in the future. They also learned how regulatory approvals and regulations need to be able to work with the U.S. corn production, distribution, and export systems. “The Council has been organizing trips for the biotech team even year since 2007,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC Director in Japan. “The knowledge and confidence they’ve gained have helped regulators to consistently make and maintain science-based regulatory decisions.”
| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 2, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will have nonfarm payrolls and the U.S. unemployment rate out, both for the month of August at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. A report on U.S. factory orders follows at 9 a.m. As usual, traders remain interested in the latest weather forecasts and any news from Ukraine. Grain and livestock markets will close at their normal times Friday, but could exhibit stranger than usual behavior ahead of the three-day weekend. Weather A cold front moving into the Western Corn Belt is producing some shower activity Friday morning from Nebraska into Minnesota. The front is moving southeast, with showers extending from Kansas to Lake Superior. Some of these storms could be severe. Another low-pressure center moving out of Oklahoma and into the Ozarks is producing scattered showers and storms and is being pulled northeast throughout the day. Strong storms are not expected but rainfall will help some of the drought areas in this region. Otherwise, temperatures remain well above normal for most areas not directly behind the front and very hot in the West.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 1, 2022 |
Vilsack Announces $21.9 Million to Strengthen Meat and Poultry Supply Chains USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced an additional $21.9 million for grant projects through the Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant Program. The funding awards 111 projects, bringing the program's total funding to $54.6 million. The funding will help strengthen and develop new market opportunities for meat and poultry processors throughout the United States. Facility improvements and expansions funded through the program will help processors obtain a Federal Grant of Inspection or qualify for a state’s Cooperative Interstate Shipment program. Achieving a Federal Grant of Inspection or operating under a Cooperative Interstate Shipment program allows meat and poultry processors to ship products across state lines, develop new markets, increase capacity, and better meet consumer and producer demand along the supply chain. USDA also encourages grant recipients to request assistance through the Meat and Poultry Processing Capacity Technical Assistance Program. The technical assistance program, launched in March of this year, connects participants to a nationwide network of resources and expertise. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates Crop Insurance Plans to Broaden Access The Department of Agriculture is improving two of its most comprehensive risk management safety net programs. USDA announced the improvements Wednesday for the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, and Micro Farm, making them more accessible to farmers. The improvements include doubling the maximum insurable revenue under Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, now $17 million, more than tripling the size of farm operations eligible for Micro Farm, now $350,000 and reducing paperwork requirements. The improvements are in direct response to feedback from stakeholders as USDA's Risk Management Agency recognizes the role these insurance options play for many producers, including specialty crop, organic and direct market producers. The Whole-Farm Revenue Protection program protects all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy. The Micro Farm program provides a risk management safety net for all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy, but on a smaller scale. The updates to both programs take effect in crop year 2023. *********************************************************************************** States and Territories to Issue $12.5 Billion in USDA’s Summer Child Food Benefits The Department of Agriculture partnered with 32 states and territories to provide summer food buying benefits to families with children. The states and territories will provide an estimated $12.5 billion in temporary nutrition benefits to approximately 32 million children. USDA Food and Nutrition Service administrator Cindy Long says, “Our hope is that all states will adopt the program, ensuring that all children have access to the healthy food they need and deserve.” Children are eligible for this temporary nutrition benefit, known as Summer P-EBT, if they are eligible for free or reduced-price meals during the school year, or if they are under age six and live in a household receiving SNAP benefits. The benefits are loaded onto a debit-type card that can be used to purchase food. Families of eligible children typically receive $391 per child for the summer, with higher rates for families in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories. *********************************************************************************** Economic Research Service: Textile Manufacturing Shifts Out of China China’s position as the top global cotton importer is weakening as cotton shipments flow into flourishing textile industries in competing countries. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that soon after China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, the nation’s textile manufacturers became the world’s leading importers of cotton. Following years of rising production costs, volatility from government intervention in the market, and government caps on the volume of imports, China’s cotton imports dropped from their peak of 24.5 million bales in 2011 to 4.4 million bales in 2015, before rebounding to 9.5 million bales in 2021. Meanwhile, competing countries, including Vietnam, Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Turkey, expanded their textile industries and boosted cotton imports over the same period. These countries’ combined imports now exceed China’s volume of cotton imports. This increasing geographic diversification of global cotton demand has helped U.S. cotton exports to remain relatively robust despite volatility in China’s imports over the past decade. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces No Actions Under Feedstock Flexibility Program The Commodity Credit Corporation does not expect to purchase and sell sugar under the Feedstock Flexibility Program for crop year 2021, which runs from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2022. The CCC is required by law to quarterly announce estimates of sugar to be purchased and sold under the Feedstock Flexibility Program based on crop and consumption forecasts. Federal law allows sugar processors to obtain loans from the Department of Agriculture with maturities of up to nine months when the sugarcane or sugar beet harvests begin. On loan maturity, the sugar processor may repay the loan in full or forfeit the sugar to USDA to satisfy the loan. Under the Feedstock Flexibility Program, if USDA is faced with the likelihood of loan forfeitures, it is required to purchase surplus sugar and sell it to bioenergy producers to reduce the surplus in the food use market and support sugar prices. *********************************************************************************** Peoples Company Launches Energy Management Division Peoples Company Wednesday announced the launch of its energy management division to help clients maximize and diversify revenue streams. The Peoples Company energy management division manages oil, natural gas, and renewable energy assets for its clients. The division offers Geographic Information System mapping, real-time client data portals, modernized revenue processing, and customized reporting. Experienced energy management professionals also help clients navigate complex issues like division orders, authorizations for expenditure, and joint interest billings to ensure their interests are protected. Peoples Company President Steve Bruere says, “Energy management is a highly specialized offering because each asset is unique and requires individualized service.” As Peoples Company continues its expansion across the country, Bruere noted that this new service offers clients a single firm to manage assets ranging from farmland to energy rights. Peoples Company’s energy management division will be based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The company is self-descried as a full-service land transaction and management business licensed in all major agricultural regions.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 1, 2022 |
Thursday Watch List Markets For a second consecutive Thursday, USDA will not issue a weekly export sales report due to technical difficulties and does not expect to have data available until Sept. 15. U.S. weekly jobless claims are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as a report on U.S. productivity in the second quarter and we get an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Institute of Supply Management's index of U.S. manufacturing is due out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather While there may be some isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms across the far South on Thursday, much of the rest of the country should be relatively quiet. That comes with a caveat as a small low-pressure center developed from Wednesday's storms in Nebraska and will move east through Iowa. There is some potential for showers and thunderstorms to develop with this feature Thursday. Otherwise, above-normal temperatures are forecast for many areas today as well, with near triple digits in the Northern Plains.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 31, 2022 |
USDA Releases Updated Trade Projections for 2022, 2023 The Department of Agriculture Tuesday released updated trade projections for the remainder of fiscal year 2022 and the first projections for fiscal year 2022. The outlook follows the federal fiscal year, which begins on October 1 and ends on September 30. Agriculture exports for 2023 are projected at $193.5 billion, with imports at $197 billion. The export forecast is $2.5 billion below the revised 2022 forecast. The decrease is primarily driven by lower exports of cotton, beef, and sorghum that are partially offset by higher exports of soybeans and horticultural products. For 2022, the export estimate of a record $196.0 billion represents an increase of $5.0 billion from May's projection, mainly due to increases in livestock, poultry, and dairy exports. USDA cautions that the global economic outlook for 2022 and 2023 is growing more uncertain due to the continued materialization of downside risks. Previous growth projections are moderated due to ongoing trade disruptions, above-target inflation rates, and rising energy prices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Awards Funding to Strengthen Markets for Agricultural Products The Department of Agriculture Tuesday awarded $11.2 million to 22 grant projects to strengthen and explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products. The funding comes from USDA Agricultural Marketing Service programs. Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, says, “USDA is excited about funding projects that improve access to fresh, locally sourced food and strengthen market opportunities for local and regional producers.” Through the Acer Access and Development Program, USDA is awarding $5.9 million to fund 12 projects. Acer projects aim to improve consumer knowledge, awareness and understanding of the maple syrup industry and its products. Through the Federal State Marketing Improvement Program, USDA is awarding more than $1 million to five projects to explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agriculture. And through the Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, USDA is awarding $4.4 million to agencies in Alaska, Hawaii, and other territories to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food. *********************************************************************************** Major School Nutrition Program Spending Declined During Pandemic USDA's National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program typically make up the largest share of child nutrition program expenditures. In fiscal year 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, spending on the two programs amounted to about $18.7 billion, nearly 80 percent of the $23.6 billion spent on all child nutrition programs that year. However, school disruptions during the pandemic led to a decline in spending, to $13.9 billion in 2020 and $12.4 billion in 2021. The declines were partly due to many schools transitioning to the Summer Food Service Program and creating the temporary Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer program. Spending on the summer food program increased from nearly $500 million in 2019 to $10.7 billion in 2021. P-EBT spending reached $10.7 billion in 2020 and $28.3 billion in 2021. Although spending on the Child and Adult Care Food Program was relatively stable across the three years, the program’s share of child nutrition program spending declined from about 16 percent in 2019 to seven percent in 2021 as overall expenditures increased. *********************************************************************************** NAWG Responds to Lower Snake River Dams Report The National Association of Wheat Growers welcomes recommendations regarding dams along the Lower Snake River by Senator Patty Murray and Washington Governor Jay Inslee. The Democrats say in a joint statement, "it’s clear that breach is not an option right now.” NAWB CEO Chandler Goule responds, “We are glad the recommendations released by Senator Murray and Governor Inslee recognize the role these dams play in agriculture and acknowledge dam breaching is not feasible at present.” Goule adds, " However, we remain concerned and opposed to breaching as it would be detrimental to wheat growers across the region." NAWG says the dams play a vital role in providing a safe, efficient and affordable way for wheat farmers to get their product to market. Last month, NAWG filed a public comment outlining concern, whereby other modes of transportation cannot simply replace barging. Wheat farmers move grain most efficiently by using the waterway instead of rail or truck while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to the organization. *********************************************************************************** Western Ag Groups Seek Quick Action for IRA Water Conservation Funding Western agriculture groups ask the Biden administration to quickly implement Inflation Reduction Act spending allocated to responding to the ongoing drought. The IRA includes $4 billion for drought response in the west. The seven agriculture groups made the request in a letter to the Interior Department and Bureau of Reclamation. The letter encourages the administration to quickly release a Notice of Funding Availability with guidance to water managers currently developing drought response proposals and quickly deploy that funding to address the most urgent needs. The letter states, "The ability of agricultural producers to participate in any voluntary, compensated water reduction program becomes much more difficult, if not impossible, if not initiated and implemented soon." The letter also urges the administration to unite stakeholders and ensure "agriculture has a place at the table." The letter is signed by the Arizona, California, Colorado and Oregon Farm Bureaus, the Agribusiness and Water Council of Arizona, Family Farm Alliance and Western Grower. *********************************************************************************** Bison Increase Plant Diversity, Drought Resilience in Grasslands A Kansas State University-led study finds bison double plant diversity in a tallgrass prairie. The research involves more than 30 years of data collection and was recently published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. The study found that plant communities also were resilient to the most extreme drought in four decades. These gains are now among the largest recorded increases in species richness because of grazing in grasslands globally, researchers said. The study occurred in the Flint Hills ecoregion, the largest remaining landscape of tallgrass prairie. Researchers examined plant community composition and diversity in three treatments that were designed to capture characteristic management regimes: no mega-grazers were present, bison were reintroduced and allowed to graze year-round, or domestic cattle were introduced and allowed to graze during the growing season. The study also found cattle have a positive impact on plant diversity, compared to having no large grazers present, although increases in plant species richness were significantly smaller than those caused by bison.
| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 31, 2022 |
Wednesday Watch List Markets At 9:30 a.m. CDT, the U.S. Energy Department will issue its weekly inventory report, including ethanol production. Traders remain attentive to weather, the war in Ukraine and the skittish mood of outside markets, facing another interest rate hike in September and an OPEC+ meeting on Monday, September 5. Weather A front has dragged down to Texas and the Gulf Coast for Wednesday, where showers will continue, especially in Texas. A few more showers and thunderstorms could pop up around Nebraska this afternoon and evening, but most areas to the north will be dry with rising temperatures.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 30, 2022 |
White House Announces Hunger Conference for September The White House Monday announced the date for its Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. The Conference is set for September 28, 2022, in Washington, DC. As the President announced in May, this will be the first Conference of this kind in more than 50 years. Millions of Americans are afflicted with food insecurity and diet-related diseases—including heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes—which are some of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S. Lack of access to healthy and affordable foods is one of many factors impacting hunger and diet-related diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges further. The Conference will bring government leaders, academics and activists together to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases in the U.S. by 2030. The White House will also announce a national strategy at the Conference that identifies actions the government will take to drive transformative change and address the intersections between food, hunger, nutrition, and health. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Details for Upcoming Census of Agriculture America’s farmers and ranchers will soon have the opportunity to be represented in the nation's only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county and territory. The Department of Agriculture will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture to millions of agriculture producers across the 50 states and Puerto Rico this fall. The 2022 Census of Agriculture will be mailed in phases, starting with an invitation to respond online in November, followed by paper questionnaires in December. Farm operations of all sizes, urban and rural, which produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022 are included in the ag census. Collected in service to American agriculture since 1840 and now conducted every five years by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Census of Agriculture tells the story and shows the value of U.S. agriculture. Changes to the 2022 questionnaire include new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production, hair sheep, and updates to internet access questions. *********************************************************************************** Interest Expense Ratio for Agriculture Stays Even with 20-year Average USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the interest expense ratio of farms was 0.04 in 2020, remaining in line with the long-term trend and initial forecasts, despite the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced demand for agricultural commodities. The interest expense ratio is calculated by dividing interest expenses by the sum of the value of production and Government payments for a given year. Interest expenses are the costs incurred by farm operations when debt is used to finance farm activities. A USDA forecast in February 2020 predicted interest expenses for 2020 at $18.0 billion, with a predicted interest expense ratio of 0.04. By February 2022, interest expenses for 2020 were estimated to be slightly higher than predicted at $19.4 billion. The February 2022 estimates also showed that while the value of production was lower than initially forecast, government payments were higher. The interest expense ratio was highest at 0.06 in 2000 and trended downward to a low of 0.03 multiple times from 2000 to 2020. *********************************************************************************** Corteva Announces 2022 Climate Positive Leaders Program Corteva Agriscience Monday announced that applications are available for its 2022 Climate Positive Leaders Program. The program recognizes farmers and ranchers who implement, scale and share climate-positive practices. The program will give the selected global and regional leaders tools and opportunities to broadly share their experiences and help accelerate the adoption of climate positive practices. Farmers and ranchers in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, India, Ireland, Kenya, New Zealand, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States are eligible to participate. Farmers can be nominated by local or regional grower groups, nonprofit organizations, universities, field or sales representatives, or other technology partners. The Global Leader recipients will receive a lifetime membership to Global Farmer Network, training and in-person participation in a Global Farmer Roundtable. Corteva will accept nominations for the program through November 30, 2022. You can find more information at Corteva.com. *********************************************************************************** EPA Issues Fuel Waiver for Four States Impacted by Bp Refinery Shutdown The Environmental Protection Agency over the weekend issued an emergency fuel waiver to help alleviate fuel shortages in four states impacted by a refinery shutdown. A BP oil refinery in Whiting, Indiana, shut down because of a fire at the facility. EPA waived the federal regulations and federally enforceable State Implementation Plan requirements for fuel volatility on gasoline sold in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The waiver will continue through September 15, 2022. The Clean Air Act allows EPA Administrator Michael Regan, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to waive certain fuel requirements to address shortages. Administrator Regan determined that extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances exist and has granted a temporary waiver to help ensure that an adequate gasoline supply is available in the affected areas. EPA and DOE are continuing to actively monitor the fuel supply situation resulting from the Bp refinery shutdown and considering additional measures to alleviate the impact. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again, Gas Down $1.20 From Peak U.S. fuel prices continued their decline for the 11th straight week, with gasoline down five cents a gallon to a national average of $3.81. GasBuddy reports the national average is down 39.8 cents from a month ago but 69.1 cents higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 7.3 cents in the last week and stands at $5.04 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Gas prices are now $1.20 per gallon lower than mid-June with Americans spending $450 million less on gasoline every day as a result.” However, some issues could change the course of fuel prices moving forward, including the shutdown of BP’s refinery in the Midwest. De Haan says, “While that refinery may get back online sooner rather than later, it’s not impossible that down the road the situation could impact prices in the region." The rest of the country, however, will see prices moderate.
| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 30, 2022 |
Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. home prices is due out at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by an index of U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders will be watching the latest forecasts, checking the news from Ukraine and any clues from outside markets. Weather A cold front that produced widespread severe weather on Monday will continue to move south and east Tuesday. Though thunderstorms are not expected to be as strong as yesterday, there should be widespread coverage from Texas to the Northeast and points south of the front. Dryness and more seasonable temperatures are moving in behind the front, but readings still remain near or above normal for most areas.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 29, 2022 |
Ag Credit Conditions Stay Strong As Risks Grow The Kansas City Fed says agricultural credit conditions remained strong in the second quarter, but slower improvement is expected during the months ahead. Those bankers who responded to the Federal Reserve Survey of Agricultural Credit Conditions say farm income continued to increase. However, the pace of increase slowed in recent quarters, and further softening is expected going forward. Farm loan repayment rates continued to strengthen, but the pace of improvement also slowed. Following almost two years of acceleration, farmland values also showed signs of moderating as interest rates continued to increase. Strength in farm finances continued to support a positive outlook for agricultural credit conditions through the remainder of 2022, but risks to the farm economy are more noticeable. With a substantial increase in production costs over the past two years, profit margins for many producers could be squeezed by a sizeable decline in commodity prices. Balance sheets likely remain strong for 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: New California Vehicle Requirements a Missed Opportunity Last week, the California Air Resources Board approved standards for vehicles made in the model year 2026 and later. In response to the announcement, the National Corn Growers Association says California regulators “missed an opportunity” to allow for more innovation and broaden low- and zero-emission solutions, in addition to the proposed electric vehicles, to maximize emission reductions while improving equity for consumers. “As NCGA told regulators during the rule-making process, constraining the vision of a zero-emission future prevents the state from tapping into the immediate and affordable environmental solutions that come from replacing more gasoline with low-carbon and low-cost ethanol in both current and new vehicles, including the electric plug-in hybrids, ” the organization says in a release. “Ethanol is on a path to net zero emissions, and NCGA will continue to work with and urge California to use all the tools in its toolbox as it addresses climate change and cuts harmful tailpipe emissions.” *********************************************************************************** Whole Foods Sued Over Deception in Antibiotic-Free Meat The nonprofit group Farm Forward joined a consumer class-action lawsuit against Whole Foods alleging that the retail giant is deceiving shoppers about beef products in its stores. Since 1981, Whole Foods has claimed that all of the animals within its supply chain are raised without antibiotics. However, an independent laboratory found antibiotic residue in “antibiotic-free” meat bought from a Whole Foods store in California. Antibiotic-free meat can cost as much as 20 percent or more than conventional meat, and surveys show 75 percent of consumers are willing to pay more for it. In April, Farm Forward released results of a program that tested Whole Foods meat for antibiotic residues. Among the findings, Farm Forward found residue of an antibiotic that can be used to promote growth in cattle in a meat product labeled “organic” and “antibiotic free.” Farm Forward says it has proof of deceptive marketing practices by Whole Foods. *********************************************************************************** Technical Difficulties for Weekly Export Sales Reporting Last week, the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service launched a new Export Sales Reporting and Maintenance System. This is a system through which U.S. exporters are required by law to report any sales transactions with buyers outside the U.S. for many key commodities. The information collected through the system is aggregated and reported to the public each week by the FAS. During the launch, FAS encountered challenges that affected the physical dissemination of the data as well as the data quality. As a result, the agency took the system offline and retracted the weekly export sales information that was passed out last week. Data integrity, credibility, and transparency are top priorities for FAS, and the timely and accurate reporting of agricultural export sales data is vital to effectively-functioning markets. FAS recognized the disruption and took steps immediately to rectify the situation. FAS intends to resolve the problems as soon as possible. *********************************************************************************** Chinese Government Tells Farmers to Replant or Switch Crops After Drought China’s record heatwave is beginning to disappear, and farmers are assessing the damage caused by the lengthy dry spell. Reuters says the Chinese government is urging its producers to replant or switch crops where they can. Over 70 days of extreme temperatures and low rainfall have hit the country’s crops hard. Rain is in the forecast over the next ten days, but farmers worry the heat has already done too much damage. In an emergency notice, the ag ministry called on the country’s farmers to harvest and store rice and take action to strengthen potential grain growth in the weeks ahead. In parts of the country where drought has already done damage, the government is asking its farmers to switch to late-fall crops like sweet potatoes. However, experts say that won’t be an easy task because nearby wells have been severely depleted of water, and some ponds have disappeared. *********************************************************************************** Glufosinate-Resistant Palmer Amaranth Found in Missouri University of Missouri Extension researchers have confirmed the state’s first case of glufosinate-resistant Palmer Amaranth in the Bootheel Region of Missouri. Palmer Amaranth spreads and adapts quickly to herbicides. Each weed produces up to one million seeds, which heightens the spread of resistance. The confirmation of Glufosinate resistance is a big concern for the state’s farmers because that resistance seems to be evolving at a quicker pace. Extension researcher Jim Heiser says, “Every mode of action that Palmer becomes resistant to seems to come at a quicker pace than the previous one.” He also warns farmers not to solely rely on herbicides to control weeds. He says to consider cultural practices for weed control, such as narrow row spacing for crops, the use of cover crops, and harvest weed seed management techniques. Palmer’s spread likely comes from used farm equipment like combines, custom harvesting crews, and feed and seed from other regions of the country.
| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 29, 2022 |
Monday Watch List Markets Traders will return from the weekend, checking the latest weather forecasts, any news from outside markets and will pause at 8 a.m. CDT to see if USDA has an export sale announcement. At 10 a.m., USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be released, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cold front that is working through the Corn Belt on Monday will spark scattered showers and thunderstorms from Kansas and Nebraska up into the central Great Lakes. Storms could be severe, with the greatest risk for severe weather across northern Illinois Monday afternoon and evening. Showers and thunderstorms may continue to develop in the hot and humid airmass south of the front as well but is not expected to be severe.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 26, 2022 |
Fertilizer Institute Hopes for Quick Rail-Labor Union Contract Settlement The Fertilizer Institute is grateful to members of the Presidential Emergency Board who listened to rail carriers and their labor unions amid their contract negotiations. The PEB offered measured recommendations on a pending contract agreement between the two. Both sides have until September 16 to evaluate the PEB’s recommendations during a mandated 30-day cooling-off period. The board’s recommendations include general wage increases and service recognition bonuses worth $1,000. “Uncertainty of this nature is yet another disruption in an already complex environment for farmers, so a speedy resolution is paramount,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Over half of all fertilizer moves by rail every year throughout the United States, and the timeliness and reliability of fertilizer shipments are absolutely critical.” He also says if the farmers can’t get their fertilizer in a timely manner, it results in lower crop yields, higher food prices, and more inflation for America’s consumers. *********************************************************************************** Court Grants Coalition Intervention in Gray Wolf Lawsuit The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the American Farm Bureau, and other members of a coalition applauded an appeals court decision allowing intervention in a case regarding gray wolves. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will allow the coalition to intervene in the Defenders of Wildlife versus the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and defend the previous administration’s delisting of the gray wolf. “The decision to allow the coalition to intervene in the case demonstrates what we’ve always known: livestock producers deserve to have their voice heard on the delisting of the gray wolf,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the Public Lands Council. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says when the gray wolf exceeded its recovery goals, it became an Endangered Species Act success story. “With thriving populations, management of species should now be the responsibility of the states, which can best determine appropriate management practices for the gray wolf,” Duvall says. *********************************************************************************** “Protecting Agriculture’s Future” is the theme for Farm Safety and Health Week National Farm Safety and Health Week is September 19-23. Agriculture is known as one of the most dangerous industries in America. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health says about 100 agricultural workers suffer a lost worktime injury every day. In 2019, the agriculture industry had a fatality rate of 19 deaths per 100,000 workers. National Farm Safety and Health Week has been held the third week of September since it was established in 1944. The goal is to help bring attention to the risks of working in agriculture. To do that, AgriSafe has daily webinars for agricultural health and safety professionals, healthcare providers, extension agents, farmers, ranchers, and their employees. This year’s theme, “Protecting Agriculture’s Future,” reminds everyone in the industry that the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture is healthy and safe workers. Every day will have a different theme, such as “Tractor Safety and Rural Roadway Safety,” on Monday, September 19. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canadian Cattle Inventory Down Two Percent The USDA says all cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined to total 111 million head on July 1, 2022, a two percent drop from the 113 million head on July 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 44.5 million head, were down two percent from last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. as of July 1, 2022, totaled 98.8 million head, down two percent from July 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved came in at 39.8 million head, a drop of two percent from a year ago. All cattle and calves in Canada totaled 12.3 million head as of July 1, down three percent from the 12.6 million head on July 1, 2021. All cows and heifers that have calved hit 4.69 million head on July 1, a number that’s down one percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** Renewable Diesel to Overtake Biodiesel Production The U.S. Energy Information Administration says renewable diesel production will surpass biodiesel production in the country in October. The EIA’s team lead for petroleum and natural gas modeling says they’re seeing continued growth on the renewable diesel side and stagnation to slight shrinking on the biodiesel side. Western Producer says renewable diesel capacity was estimated at 1.92 billion gallons per year in May, up from 1.75 billion gallons in January. Biodiesel capacity was estimated at 2.22 billion gallons, down from 2.26 billion. Many of the traditional oil refineries in the U.S. are being converted to renewable diesel plants. The EIA estimates that 440,000 barrels per day were converted to renewable diesel in 2020. Expectations are that another 660,000 barrels a day will be converted to renewable diesel in 2022. The agency says it’s already prepared an article for when renewable diesel surpasses biodiesel production, which it expects to publish in October. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Hires New Director of Food Policy Dr. Ashley Johnson has joined the National Pork Producers Council as director of food policy. In her new role, she’ll focus on developing and implementing post-harvest food safety and human nutrition programs and addressing animal care issues in market channels. “Her wealth of knowledge is a tremendous asset as we help set the direction of the country’s food policies and weigh in on issues that could affect producers’ ability to produce safe, nutritious pork for consumers around the world,” says NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. Johnson comes to NPPC from Zoetis (zo-EH-tis), where she was a technical service veterinarian for more than five years. Among her many duties, she worked with the animal health company’s public affairs department to disseminate information to its pork team and customers on legislation and regulatory actions that could affect the pork industry. Johnson earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.
| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 26, 2022 |
Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT, reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for July will be released, followed by the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment at 9 a.m. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell will speak in Jackson Hole, Wyoming Friday morning and is expected to support another rate hike when the Fed meets in September. Weather A front stalled across the Gulf Coast will continue to produce scattered showers on Friday while another system moving through Canada will bring some to the eastern Midwest and Northeast. Another trailing behind it will continue to bring some showers to the Northern and Central Plains as well. Overall, showers will be pretty isolated outside of the Northeast and Gulf Coast, offering only limited help for filling corn and soybeans in a few spots.
| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 25, 2022 |
Vilsack Announces New Program for Underserved, Minority Farmers A new $550 million program from the Department of Agriculture seeks to support projects that help underserved producers. The program supports projects that enable producers access to land, capital, and markets, and train the next diverse generation of agricultural professionals. The investments are made through funding provided in the American Rescue Plan Act, as amended by the Inflation Reduction Act. The provisions fund and direct USDA to take action to help ensure underserved producers have the resources, tools, programs, and technical support they need to succeed. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the funding is part of “USDA’s unwavering commitment to advancing equity for all, including people who have been underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.” The program includes Up to $300 million for “Increasing Land, Capital and Market Access” Projects aimed at helping underserved producers. An additional $250 million goes to the “From Learning to Leading: Cultivating the Next Generation of Diverse Food and Agriculture Professionals” program. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $121 Million in Infrastructure to Combat Climate Change The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced $121 million in funding for critical infrastructure to combat climate change in rural America. The investments include $111 million for 289 projects to help people living in socially vulnerable communities. USDA Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh says the investments will “strengthen our energy security, create good-paying jobs and save Americans money on their energy costs.” The funding will help people in 49 states, Guam and Puerto Rico. It reflects the many ways USDA Rural Development helps rural residents, businesses and communities address economic development, infrastructure and social service needs, according to USDA. Bronaugh highlighted a total of 415 investments that USDA is making through three programs designed to help people and businesses in rural areas. The programs are Community Facilities Disaster Grants, Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvement Guaranteed Loans and Grants, and Rural Energy for America Program Energy Audits and Renewable Energy Development Grants. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Infant Formula Waivers, Supports WIC State Agencies The federal government this week extended a series of waivers to provide WIC families with additional infant formula options through the end of the year. The Department of Agriculture extended the waivers to December 31, 2022, or 60 days after the expiration of the state’s COVID-19 major disaster declaration. The waivers were previously set to expire at the end of September. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We will continue to work all hands on deck to ensure families can access infant formula.” The waivers extended allow WIC state agencies, with the necessary agreements from their infant formula contract manufacturers, to offer participants additional infant formula options, such as alternate sizes, forms and brands. USDA began offering waivers immediately after the February voluntary recall of certain Abbott powder infant formulas, which exacerbated existing supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, USDA has granted nearly 500 waivers to WIC state agencies. *********************************************************************************** AFIA Releases State of the U.S. Feed Industry Report The American Feed