BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

House-passed bill adds ban against spy drones, aircraft flying below 500 feet

TOPEKA — The Animal Legal Defense Fund filed a lawsuit in 2018 challenging on First Amendment grounds Kansas’ quarter-century-old law thwarting covert investigations into the treatment of animals and workers at feedlots, slaughterhouses and crop production zones.

Ramifications of that legal action continue to vex the animal agriculture industry in Kansas, farm lobbying organizations and rural legislators.

In 2021, the 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals agreed with ALDF’s legal claim and a lower federal court’s decision to strike down provisions of Kansas’ “ag-gag” law — the oldest statute in the United States criminalizing undercover videotaping of alleged abuses.

The appellate court concluded Kansas had embarked on a forthright statutory plan to limit the ability of ALDF and like-mined organizations to slip under the radar in search of proof of the industry’s shortcomings. When signed into law by Republican Gov. Mike Hayden in 1990, he said the legislation was a direct response to damage perpetrated by “radical elements of the animal-rights movement.”

That state law selectively criminalized work of activists critical of Kansas agriculture practices. It didn’t mandate charges against a person who gained access to property without permission with the goal of lauding Kansas animal-handling practices. In other words, Hayden and other Kansas lawmakers interested in squelching dissent were guilty of state-sanctioned discrimination based on viewpoint.

“We reject this approach,” the federal Court of Appeals said. “It elevates form over substance and permits Kansas to do just what the First Amendment prohibits: License one side of a debate to fight freestyle, while requiring the other to follow&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marquess_of_Queensberry_Rules">Marquis of Queensberry rules</a>.”

The U.S. Supreme Court declined in 2022 to review the Court of Appeals’ unraveling of the Farm Animal and Field Crop and Research Facilities Protection Act.

The courthouse outcome was celebrated by the coalition of special-interest groups led by ALDF as a victory for animal rights and free speech. They also could see a path to placing their people — whistleblowers — as employees at targeted facilities to collect insider information for articles and videos about hog, beef and dairy or poultry operations, processing facilities and other agriculture businesses in Kansas.

“The industry works hard to keep its practices secret, knowing consumers won’t accept the intense confinement and other inhumane treatment of animals,” said Stephen Wells, executive director of the Animal Legal Defense Fund.

The Kansas Livestock Association, with more than 5,000 members involved in dairy, swine and beef production along with other farm enterprises, went to work drafting a rebuttal bill. The objective was to refine the state’s protection against trespassers on farm property or people making fraudulent statements on employment applications to gain access to land and facilities.

Results of that effort, wrapped into House Bill 2816, was approved 99-24 this week by the Kansas House after five minutes of floor debate. KLA’s legal product avoided the sticky mess caused by language about “intent to damage” and “effective consent” that helped to undermine the 1990 statute. The package forwarded to the Kansas Senate also clarified criminal penalties and blocked use of drones and aircraft below 500 feet directly above agriculture businesses.

“There are some places that people just shouldn’t go without permission,” said Rep. Lisa Moser, a Wheaton Republican and rancher. “This is tailored language done specifically to address the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision.”

Moser noted the bill resolved the free speech issue by applying sanctions to any unauthorized trespasser on agriculture cropland, farm research facility or animal operation whether those people were engaged in covert investigations or innocent behavior.

None of the likely opponents of the bill, such as the ALDF, the Sierra Club of Kansas or Humane Society of the United States, testified during the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee hearing March 6.

Jackie Garagiola, associate counsel to the Kansas Livestock Association, said the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court not to hear the state’s appeal meant the law had to be revised so “critical protections provided by the act for these facilities remain, but in a manner that does not come into conflict with the First Amendment.”

Under House Bill 2816, Kansas would make it illegal to enter or remain in animal facility or field crop production areas without permission of the owner or to knowingly make false statements on an employment application to gain access to those places. The same standards would apply to agriculture research areas controlled by private, university, federal, state or local government entities.

Garagiola said “effective consent” language in the Kansas law was unconstitutional because it regulated speech as opposed to conduct.

The new bill addressed the federal court’s contention the old Kansas law forbid speech made with the “intent to damage the enterprise conducted at the animal facility.” To clear up constitutional violations, the House-passed bill created the simple prohibition for trespass or use of fraudulent employment applications regardless of intent of the individual.

It would be a class A misdemeanor to enter or remain on these properties without consent and a class B misdemeanor for making bogus statements on job applications to gain access. The penalty for property damage or destruction of an animal or crop facility would be a level 9 nonperson felony for damage ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 and a level 7 nonperson felony for damages of $25,000 or more.

KLA’s approach was endorsed by Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Grain &amp; Feed Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Pork Association and Kansas Dairy Association.

Janet Bailey, CEO of the dairy association, said the fastest growing segment of Kansas agriculture — dairying — needed lawmakers to&nbsp; close the gap left by the Court of Appeals’ decision. In particular, she said, the dairy industry was keen to secure criminal sanctions against people seeking jobs under false pretenses. The threat of prosecution has been an effective deterrent to undercover inquiries in the United States.

“Labor is a top concern among those in the dairy industry,” Bailey said. “As such, it can make our industry even more vulnerable to those who might seek employment with motives other than working in the care of our animals and production of milk. Their motives are clear in their desire to damage our industry and the livelihoods of the industry.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711230479923.png" alt=" Janet Bailey, CEO of the Kansas Dairy Association, said the fastest growing segment of Kansas agriculture — dairying — needed the Kansas Legislature to respond to a federal court decision by removing unconstitutional provisions of state law and restoring protections against undercover animal-rights organizations and applicants seeking jobs under false pretenses. (Jill Hummels/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Janet Bailey, CEO of the Kansas Dairy Association, said the fastest growing segment of Kansas agriculture — dairying — needed the Kansas Legislature to respond to a federal court decision by removing unconstitutional provisions of state law and restoring protections against undercover animal-rights organizations and applicants seeking jobs under false pretenses. (Jill Hummels/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>House-passed bill adds ban against spy drones, aircraft flying below 500 feet</h2>TOPEKA — The Animal Legal Defense Fund filed a lawsuit in 2018 challenging on First Amendment grounds Kansas’ quarter-century-old law thwarting covert investigations into the treatment of animals and workers at feedlots, slaughterhouses and crop production zones.Ramifications of that legal action continue to vex the animal agriculture industry in Kansas, farm lobbying organizations and rural legislators.In 2021, the 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals agreed with ALDF’s legal claim and a lower federal court’s decision to strike down provisions of Kansas’ “ag-gag” law — the oldest statute in the United States criminalizing undercover videotaping of alleged abuses.The appellate court concluded Kansas had embarked on a forthright statutory plan to limit the ability of ALDF and like-mined organizations to slip under the radar in search of proof of the industry’s shortcomings. When signed into law by Republican Gov. Mike Hayden in 1990, he said the legislation was a direct response to damage perpetrated by “radical elements of the animal-rights movement.”That state law selectively criminalized work of activists critical of Kansas agriculture practices. It didn’t mandate charges against a person who gained access to property without permission with the goal of lauding Kansas animal-handling practices. In other words, Hayden and other Kansas lawmakers interested in squelching dissent were guilty of state-sanctioned discrimination based on viewpoint.“We reject this approach,” the federal Court of Appeals said. “It elevates form over substance and permits Kansas to do just what the First Amendment prohibits: License one side of a debate to fight freestyle, while requiring the other to follow&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marquess_of_Queensberry_Rules">Marquis of Queensberry rules</a>.”The U.S. Supreme Court declined in 2022 to review the Court of Appeals’ unraveling of the Farm Animal and Field Crop and Research Facilities Protection Act.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711230441938.png" alt=" Kansas Rep. Lisa Moser, a Republican and rancher, asked House colleagues to ditch unconstitutional provisions of Kansas law and adopt a revised strategy for thwarting animal-rights activists engaging in undercover work to expose livestock industry practices. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Rep. Lisa Moser, a Republican and rancher, asked House colleagues to ditch unconstitutional provisions of Kansas law and adopt a revised strategy for thwarting animal-rights activists engaging in undercover work to expose livestock industry practices. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘Just shouldn’t go’</h2>The courthouse outcome was celebrated by the coalition of special-interest groups led by ALDF as a victory for animal rights and free speech. They also could see a path to placing their people — whistleblowers — as employees at targeted facilities to collect insider information for articles and videos about hog, beef and dairy or poultry operations, processing facilities and other agriculture businesses in Kansas.“The industry works hard to keep its practices secret, knowing consumers won’t accept the intense confinement and other inhumane treatment of animals,” said Stephen Wells, executive director of the Animal Legal Defense Fund.The Kansas Livestock Association, with more than 5,000 members involved in dairy, swine and beef production along with other farm enterprises, went to work drafting a rebuttal bill. The objective was to refine the state’s protection against trespassers on farm property or people making fraudulent statements on employment applications to gain access to land and facilities.Results of that effort, wrapped into House Bill 2816, was approved 99-24 this week by the Kansas House after five minutes of floor debate. KLA’s legal product avoided the sticky mess caused by language about “intent to damage” and “effective consent” that helped to undermine the 1990 statute. The package forwarded to the Kansas Senate also clarified criminal penalties and blocked use of drones and aircraft below 500 feet directly above agriculture businesses.“There are some places that people just shouldn’t go without permission,” said Rep. Lisa Moser, a Wheaton Republican and rancher. “This is tailored language done specifically to address the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision.”Moser noted the bill resolved the free speech issue by applying sanctions to any unauthorized trespasser on agriculture cropland, farm research facility or animal operation whether those people were engaged in covert investigations or innocent behavior.None of the likely opponents of the bill, such as the ALDF, the Sierra Club of Kansas or Humane Society of the United States, testified during the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee hearing March 6.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711230407996.png" alt="The Kansas Livestock Association’s attorneys prepared House Bill 2816, which easily passed the House, to restore protections of the beef, dairy, hog and poultry industries, crop producers and research facilities that might be targeted by animal-rights organizations. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Livestock Association’s attorneys prepared House Bill 2816, which easily passed the House, to restore protections of the beef, dairy, hog and poultry industries, crop producers and research facilities that might be targeted by animal-rights organizations. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>KLA steps into void</h2>Jackie Garagiola, associate counsel to the Kansas Livestock Association, said the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court not to hear the state’s appeal meant the law had to be revised so “critical protections provided by the act for these facilities remain, but in a manner that does not come into conflict with the First Amendment.”Under House Bill 2816, Kansas would make it illegal to enter or remain in animal facility or field crop production areas without permission of the owner or to knowingly make false statements on an employment application to gain access to those places. The same standards would apply to agriculture research areas controlled by private, university, federal, state or local government entities.Garagiola said “effective consent” language in the Kansas law was unconstitutional because it regulated speech as opposed to conduct.The new bill addressed the federal court’s contention the old Kansas law forbid speech made with the “intent to damage the enterprise conducted at the animal facility.” To clear up constitutional violations, the House-passed bill created the simple prohibition for trespass or use of fraudulent employment applications regardless of intent of the individual.It would be a class A misdemeanor to enter or remain on these properties without consent and a class B misdemeanor for making bogus statements on job applications to gain access. The penalty for property damage or destruction of an animal or crop facility would be a level 9 nonperson felony for damage ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 and a level 7 nonperson felony for damages of $25,000 or more.KLA’s approach was endorsed by Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Grain &amp; Feed Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Kansas Pork Association and Kansas Dairy Association.Janet Bailey, CEO of the dairy association, said the fastest growing segment of Kansas agriculture — dairying — needed lawmakers to&nbsp; close the gap left by the Court of Appeals’ decision. In particular, she said, the dairy industry was keen to secure criminal sanctions against people seeking jobs under false pretenses. The threat of prosecution has been an effective deterrent to undercover inquiries in the United States.“Labor is a top concern among those in the dairy industry,” Bailey said. “As such, it can make our industry even more vulnerable to those who might seek employment with motives other than working in the care of our animals and production of milk. Their motives are clear in their desire to damage our industry and the livelihoods of the industry.”

Kansas House tries to fix constitutional flaw to shield agriculture from animal-rights activists

Experts told the House Ag Committee China remains the top global threat to U.S. agriculture despite billions in U.S. export sales there.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem says China wants to control the US food supply.

“They have, decades ago, started buying our fertilizer companies. Then, I watched them buy up our chemical companies. I watched us as we sold citizenship to members of the Communist Party for investment into our processing systems, and now most of our processing facilities are owned by the Communist Party or Chinese Government. Now they are coming for our land.”

House CCP Select Committee Chair Mike Gallagher says U.S. tracking of farmland buys, even near sensitive military installations, is flawed.

“The U.S. government has no way of tracking land purchases by foreign adversaries. There was a recent GAO report that found USDA is incapable of properly tracking such land purchases by problematic actors. Second, even upon discovering a problematic transaction, CFIUS often finds it has no jurisdiction.”

He’s referring to the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. with a new seat Congress just okayed for USDA. But there’s a national security balancing act with China. American Soybean Association President Josh Gackel on the 2018 tariff war.

“We saw almost an immediate drop in the market price for soybeans, in particular, close to a two-dollar drop in just a short time after those tariffs were announced and the retaliation from China.”

But Indiana farmer and former U.S. Ambassador to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization Kip Tom says from seeds to data, China’s already undermining the U.S. farmer.

“The constellation of satellites that are operating their tractors to communicating data algorithms to the computers in the tractor to the seeding, these have all been compromised—they’ve been stolen.”

Tom says the Chinese now have our seed genetics and will boost corn yield by some ten percent this year, further displacing U.S. sales and prompting his call for more research dollars and the best cybersecurity experts in the field.

Experts told the House Ag Committee China remains the top global threat to U.S. agriculture despite billions in U.S. export sales there.South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem says China wants to control the US food supply.“They have, decades ago, started buying our fertilizer companies. Then, I watched them buy up our chemical companies. I watched us as we sold citizenship to members of the Communist Party for investment into our processing systems, and now most of our processing facilities are owned by the Communist Party or Chinese Government. Now they are coming for our land.”House CCP Select Committee Chair Mike Gallagher says U.S. tracking of farmland buys, even near sensitive military installations, is flawed.“The U.S. government has no way of tracking land purchases by foreign adversaries. There was a recent GAO report that found USDA is incapable of properly tracking such land purchases by problematic actors. Second, even upon discovering a problematic transaction, CFIUS often finds it has no jurisdiction.”He’s referring to the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. with a new seat Congress just okayed for USDA. But there’s a national security balancing act with China. American Soybean Association President Josh Gackel on the 2018 tariff war.“We saw almost an immediate drop in the market price for soybeans, in particular, close to a two-dollar drop in just a short time after those tariffs were announced and the retaliation from China.”But Indiana farmer and former U.S. Ambassador to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization Kip Tom says from seeds to data, China’s already undermining the U.S. farmer.“The constellation of satellites that are operating their tractors to communicating data algorithms to the computers in the tractor to the seeding, these have all been compromised—they’ve been stolen.”Tom says the Chinese now have our seed genetics and will boost corn yield by some ten percent this year, further displacing U.S. sales and prompting his call for more research dollars and the best cybersecurity experts in the field.-NAFB

China top threat to US agriculture experts tell House Ag

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.

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.-NAFB

Ag leaders want certainty on Sustainable Aviation Fuel

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.

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.-NAFB

Consumers think food prices still too high

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.

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.-NAFB

Ethanol production and inventories rise

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.

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.-NAFB

Colombia restores market access for U.S. poultry

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.

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.-NAFB

Mexico to boost corn imports

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack suggests the U.S. needs to tone down its anti-China rhetoric or else billions in U.S. farm exports to China could be on the chopping block… From TikTok to China’s spy balloon to its hacking and aggression in the Pacific, U.S. officials and lawmakers have pushed back against Beijing for months.

But Secretary Tom Vilsack said at an Agri-Pulse forum the criticism may be getting out of hand.

“We have an interesting conversation going on in this country about China. It’s pretty hard for the Chinese - and this was expressed to me when I met with the Chinese Ag minister - it’s pretty hard for them to understand that they’re the number one Ag customer for U.S. products. That’s not how you would see it based on the rhetoric that we see today.”

Vilsack urged a “nuanced and thoughtful conversation about China.” Otherwise, he said the U.S. could jeopardize its nearly 40-billion-dollar farm export trade with Beijing, which fell to $29 billion last year. But Iowa Senator and former chair of the Finance Committee that covers trade Chuck Grassley thinks Vilsack is only “half right”.

“I think you have to be kind of careful how you talk to China, but I think we’ve been too easy on them, and I think China could retaliate against our Ag exports to them. But if they do buy more from Argentina and Brazil, there’s going to be opportunities for us to fill the void of where that grain would have otherwise gone.”

Grassley says China will always need to import enough food to feed its people. But when it comes to U.S. national security versus farm exports, Grassley feels the U.S. must ‘stand up to China.’

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack suggests the U.S. needs to tone down its anti-China rhetoric or else billions in U.S. farm exports to China could be on the chopping block… From TikTok to China’s spy balloon to its hacking and aggression in the Pacific, U.S. officials and lawmakers have pushed back against Beijing for months.But Secretary Tom Vilsack said at an Agri-Pulse forum the criticism may be getting out of hand.“We have an interesting conversation going on in this country about China. It’s pretty hard for the Chinese - and this was expressed to me when I met with the Chinese Ag minister - it’s pretty hard for them to understand that they’re the number one Ag customer for U.S. products. That’s not how you would see it based on the rhetoric that we see today.”Vilsack urged a “nuanced and thoughtful conversation about China.” Otherwise, he said the U.S. could jeopardize its nearly 40-billion-dollar farm export trade with Beijing, which fell to $29 billion last year. But Iowa Senator and former chair of the Finance Committee that covers trade Chuck Grassley thinks Vilsack is only “half right”.“I think you have to be kind of careful how you talk to China, but I think we’ve been too easy on them, and I think China could retaliate against our Ag exports to them. But if they do buy more from Argentina and Brazil, there’s going to be opportunities for us to fill the void of where that grain would have otherwise gone.”Grassley says China will always need to import enough food to feed its people. But when it comes to U.S. national security versus farm exports, Grassley feels the U.S. must ‘stand up to China.’-NAFB

Vilsack urges toning down Anti-China rhetoric, citing farm exports

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.

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.-NAFB

El Niño’s impact on U.S. Farmers

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.”

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.”

EV push will drive U.S. deficit $200 Billion higher

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.”

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.”-NAFB

House Ag committee dealing with Chinese influence on U.S. Ag

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.”

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.”-NAFB

Ag groups react to new EPA tailpipe standards

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow repeated her threat to oppose a new farm bill if Republicans insist on taking funds from nutrition or conservation to fund it.

Stabenow told Agri-Pulse’s Ag and Food Policy Summit her earlier White House farm bill comments were “blown up and misinterpreted.” Then, she repeated them.

“I had said that I will not have my legacy cutting food assistance for Americans. If that’s the way you have to get a farm bill…or, taking conservation money away from farmers, if that’s the way you have to get a farm bill, then, you know, we’ll continue 2018 for another year.”

Ag Republican Chuck Grassley, confronted with Stabenow’s quote, had this.

“Either she budges, or we don’t get a farm bill, or she seeks to put more ‘farm in the farm bill,’ and that could be, wherever you get more money.”

But Grassley says that’s up to her and Ag Ranking Republican John Boozman, who insists a farm bill like a House-advanced tax bill is still possible this year.

“That’s been worked on for a long time. All of a sudden, these things will come together. And I’m hoping that that’ll be one of those, you work hard, doesn’t look like you’re making a lot of progress, and then, maybe we get it done now, maybe we get it done in the lame duck, or whatever. But we want to get it done this year.”

Stabenow agrees. But after months of talks and the elapsed ’18 law, already extended one year through next September, both sides remain dug in on seemingly intractable ground.

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow repeated her threat to oppose a new farm bill if Republicans insist on taking funds from nutrition or conservation to fund it.Stabenow told Agri-Pulse’s Ag and Food Policy Summit her earlier White House farm bill comments were “blown up and misinterpreted.” Then, she repeated them.“I had said that I will not have my legacy cutting food assistance for Americans. If that’s the way you have to get a farm bill…or, taking conservation money away from farmers, if that’s the way you have to get a farm bill, then, you know, we’ll continue 2018 for another year.”Ag Republican Chuck Grassley, confronted with Stabenow’s quote, had this.“Either she budges, or we don’t get a farm bill, or she seeks to put more ‘farm in the farm bill,’ and that could be, wherever you get more money.”But Grassley says that’s up to her and Ag Ranking Republican John Boozman, who insists a farm bill like a House-advanced tax bill is still possible this year.“That’s been worked on for a long time. All of a sudden, these things will come together. And I’m hoping that that’ll be one of those, you work hard, doesn’t look like you’re making a lot of progress, and then, maybe we get it done now, maybe we get it done in the lame duck, or whatever. But we want to get it done this year.”Stabenow agrees. But after months of talks and the elapsed ’18 law, already extended one year through next September, both sides remain dug in on seemingly intractable ground.-NAFB

Stabenow repeats threat to extend ’18 farm law if GOP insists on using SNAP for Title I

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 &amp; 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."

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 &amp; 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."-NAFB

Cargill awards more than $3 Million grant to national FFA organization

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&nbsp;<a href="https://fapri.missouri.edu/publications/2024-us-agricultural-market-outlook/?utm_campaign=485145_FAPRI%20Baseline%20Report%20%28March%202024%29&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=Child%20account%20for%20The%20Curators%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Missouri&amp;dm_i=7JGU,AEC9,4NFTD7,1HPH8,1">website</a>.

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&nbsp;<a href="https://fapri.missouri.edu/publications/2024-us-agricultural-market-outlook/?utm_campaign=485145_FAPRI%20Baseline%20Report%20%28March%202024%29&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=Child%20account%20for%20The%20Curators%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Missouri&amp;dm_i=7JGU,AEC9,4NFTD7,1HPH8,1">website</a>.-NAFB

MU releases new baseline food and agricultural outlook

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.

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.-NAFB

Ag import values outpaced export values in 2023

Missouri is approaching its third straight year of dry conditions.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, 96% of the state is experiencing dry conditions. State climatologist Zach Leasor says that the state is behind on moisture, which could affect the growing season.

&nbsp;“Unless we see above normal precipitation soon in the rest of March and in April, we’re going to be pretty vulnerable to rapid onset of seeing some agricultural drought impacts if we don’t get some of that above normal precipitation.”

Leasor says that if Mother Nature does not bring above normal rainfall this spring, the drought this summer could get even worse.

“Right now, the soil moisture across the state, which is so important for the agricultural sector in making that water available for plants, it is much below normal for this time of year because of what we saw in February, but also soils are much drier this time, right now, then they were in March of 2023.”

As the El Niño weather pattern begins to come to an end and La Niña follows, summer could bring uncertainty. Leasor says that the state has seen this pattern eight times dating back to 1950.

“Overall, there’s a tendency for maybe a little bit of a warmer summer, but the precipitation is all over the board. So, when we flipped from El Niño to La Niña, we’ve had our wettest year on record in Missouri, which was 1973, but we’ve also had drought years like 1954 and 1988.”

He says that if drought continues for a third-straight year, the already dry soil conditions could intensify. El Niño and La Niña climate patterns affect weather across the globe through the cooling of water in the Pacific Ocean. Warmer or colder than average ocean temperatures in one part of the world can influence weather around the world.

Missouri is approaching its third straight year of dry conditions.According to the most recent data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, 96% of the state is experiencing dry conditions. State climatologist Zach Leasor says that the state is behind on moisture, which could affect the growing season.&nbsp;“Unless we see above normal precipitation soon in the rest of March and in April, we’re going to be pretty vulnerable to rapid onset of seeing some agricultural drought impacts if we don’t get some of that above normal precipitation.”Leasor says that if Mother Nature does not bring above normal rainfall this spring, the drought this summer could get even worse.“Right now, the soil moisture across the state, which is so important for the agricultural sector in making that water available for plants, it is much below normal for this time of year because of what we saw in February, but also soils are much drier this time, right now, then they were in March of 2023.”As the El Niño weather pattern begins to come to an end and La Niña follows, summer could bring uncertainty. Leasor says that the state has seen this pattern eight times dating back to 1950.“Overall, there’s a tendency for maybe a little bit of a warmer summer, but the precipitation is all over the board. So, when we flipped from El Niño to La Niña, we’ve had our wettest year on record in Missouri, which was 1973, but we’ve also had drought years like 1954 and 1988.”He says that if drought continues for a third-straight year, the already dry soil conditions could intensify. El Niño and La Niña climate patterns affect weather across the globe through the cooling of water in the Pacific Ocean. Warmer or colder than average ocean temperatures in one part of the world can influence weather around the world.-Missourinet

Could Missouri expect drought relief this spring?

Biobased products, already a big part of agriculture, will likely play an even bigger role in the future as more oil-based items turn into those made from plants. That, from a panel of experts at Agri-Pulse’s Ag and Food Policy summit.

USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service head Betsy Dirksen Londrigan says biobased products will be a huge part of agriculture in the very near future.

“It’s going to start with the farmers and that’s where the money’s going to go, if we have anything to say about it. I think what we’re going to see in 5-years is the ‘bio-preferred’ product label everywhere, it’s going to be an industry standard, people are going to be looking for it.”

From new fertilizers to aviation fuel, farmers will play a role. Alex Minotti is Vice-President of Government Affairs at LanzaJet.

“Commercial producer of alcohol to jet sustainable aviation fuel. And, as was mentioned, we just in January, opened the world's first commercial plant in Soperton, Georgia, ten million gallons per year of ethanol to both jet fuel and diesel.”

Just a fraction of a potential 36-billion-gallon industry if Treasury and also EPA modernize ethanol emission standards Minotti says to allow key tax credits. But infrastructure’s another hurdle.

Business Development Associate Director at the University of Illinois’ IBRL facility in Urbana-Champaign Beth Conerty.

“Historically, it’s been extremely difficult to get money for capital-intensive infrastructure. And, we kind of saw that through the biofuels era…and there were some real challenges in biofuels. And now, it’s even harder to get funding for capital intensive projects.”

Conerty says too many of the start-ups she works with must go overseas, and a better funding pipeline here would keep those firms and jobs in the US, the world’s ‘hotbed’ for research and development.

Biobased products, already a big part of agriculture, will likely play an even bigger role in the future as more oil-based items turn into those made from plants. That, from a panel of experts at Agri-Pulse’s Ag and Food Policy summit.USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service head Betsy Dirksen Londrigan says biobased products will be a huge part of agriculture in the very near future.“It’s going to start with the farmers and that’s where the money’s going to go, if we have anything to say about it. I think what we’re going to see in 5-years is the ‘bio-preferred’ product label everywhere, it’s going to be an industry standard, people are going to be looking for it.”From new fertilizers to aviation fuel, farmers will play a role. Alex Minotti is Vice-President of Government Affairs at LanzaJet.“Commercial producer of alcohol to jet sustainable aviation fuel. And, as was mentioned, we just in January, opened the world's first commercial plant in Soperton, Georgia, ten million gallons per year of ethanol to both jet fuel and diesel.”Just a fraction of a potential 36-billion-gallon industry if Treasury and also EPA modernize ethanol emission standards Minotti says to allow key tax credits. But infrastructure’s another hurdle.Business Development Associate Director at the University of Illinois’ IBRL facility in Urbana-Champaign Beth Conerty.“Historically, it’s been extremely difficult to get money for capital-intensive infrastructure. And, we kind of saw that through the biofuels era…and there were some real challenges in biofuels. And now, it’s even harder to get funding for capital intensive projects.”Conerty says too many of the start-ups she works with must go overseas, and a better funding pipeline here would keep those firms and jobs in the US, the world’s ‘hotbed’ for research and development.-NAFB

Biobased products the future of ag

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.

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.-NAFB

Gas higher again, diesel lower

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.

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.-NAFB

USDA: Infant formula rebates reduce WIC spending

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.

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.-NAFB

Lawmakers seek USDA telework policy investigation

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.

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.-NAFB

Senators demand increase in ag exports

Another revenue source to keep farmers farming is getting a boost from the USDA. Under Secretary Robert Bonnie says the new funds will help conserve farmlands and wetlands.

“138 million dollars goes into our Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and this support about 138 individual easements across the country.”

And continue a strategy by Secretary Tom Vilsack to use the Inflation Reduction Act and other funding sources to keep farmers farming.

“We know from the nature of the demand from EQIP and CSP, the Regional Conservation Partnership Program and the Easement Program, there’s significant demand, above and beyond the resources, even under the IRA.”

Undersecretary Bonnie told USDA Radio that prime farmland is increasingly getting lost to development. He sees ACEP as an antidote.

“So, this is a program that helps keep those family farms in families by purchasing the development rights.”

“These are either grasslands or a lot of times, forestlands. We’re restoring the wetlands features on those.”

Bonnie says those can continue as farms, ranches, and forestlands, as ACEP easements protect wildlife habitat, water quality, and private land ownership.

Another revenue source to keep farmers farming is getting a boost from the USDA. Under Secretary Robert Bonnie says the new funds will help conserve farmlands and wetlands.“138 million dollars goes into our Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and this support about 138 individual easements across the country.”And continue a strategy by Secretary Tom Vilsack to use the Inflation Reduction Act and other funding sources to keep farmers farming.“We know from the nature of the demand from EQIP and CSP, the Regional Conservation Partnership Program and the Easement Program, there’s significant demand, above and beyond the resources, even under the IRA.”Undersecretary Bonnie told USDA Radio that prime farmland is increasingly getting lost to development. He sees ACEP as an antidote.“So, this is a program that helps keep those family farms in families by purchasing the development rights.”And then there are wetlands.“These are either grasslands or a lot of times, forestlands. We’re restoring the wetlands features on those.”Bonnie says those can continue as farms, ranches, and forestlands, as ACEP easements protect wildlife habitat, water quality, and private land ownership.-NAFB

USDA’s ACEP gets a funding boost  

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 mTorres 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.

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 mTorres 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.-NAFB

USDA invests in organic promotion

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.

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.-NAFB