The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output rose slightly week-to-week while stockpiles declined. Production of the biofuel increased to an average of 1.059 million barrels a day during the week ending on December 24. 

That’s up from an average of 1.051 million barrels a day during the previous week. In the Midwest, which is by far the biggest-producing region, output increased to an average of 1.001 million barrels per day, up from 991 million barrels a week earlier. 

That was where all the gains took place as East Coast and West Coast production remained at 12,000 barrels a day and 10,000 barrels, respectively. Production in the Rocky Mountain and Gulf Coast regions dropped to 23,000 barrels a day and 13,000 barrels, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ethanol inventories during the week ending on December 24 fell to 20.76 million barrels, down from 20.705 million the week before. That’s the lowest level since the week ending on December 3.

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output rose slightly week-to-week while stockpiles declined. Production of the biofuel increased to an average of 1.059 million barrels a day during the week ending on December 24. That’s up from an average of 1.051 million barrels a day during the previous week. In the Midwest, which is by far the biggest-producing region, output increased to an average of 1.001 million barrels per day, up from 991 million barrels a week earlier. That was where all the gains took place as East Coast and West Coast production remained at 12,000 barrels a day and 10,000 barrels, respectively. Production in the Rocky Mountain and Gulf Coast regions dropped to 23,000 barrels a day and 13,000 barrels, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ethanol inventories during the week ending on December 24 fell to 20.76 million barrels, down from 20.705 million the week before. That’s the lowest level since the week ending on December 3.

Ethanol production rises slightly

New York will soon be the biggest state to require biodiesel to be blended into its heating oil. Recent legislation says that starting in July 2022, petroleum-based heating oil sold in the state will get blended with increasing amounts of biodiesel. 

The goal of the move is to help New York get to its goal of lowering greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Biodiesel industry advocates estimate that the fuel will cut New York’s annual petroleum diesel consumption by about 200 million gallons every year. 

That will drop the state’s annual carbon emissions by roughly one million metric tons. New York’s governor says the bill is a step toward meeting the goals of the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. 

All heating oil sold in New York must have at least five percent biodiesel by July 1, 10 percent by 2025, and 20 percent by 2030. Blending requirements are already in effect in Long Island and New York City.

New York will soon be the biggest state to require biodiesel to be blended into its heating oil. Recent legislation says that starting in July 2022, petroleum-based heating oil sold in the state will get blended with increasing amounts of biodiesel. The goal of the move is to help New York get to its goal of lowering greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Biodiesel industry advocates estimate that the fuel will cut New York’s annual petroleum diesel consumption by about 200 million gallons every year. That will drop the state’s annual carbon emissions by roughly one million metric tons. New York’s governor says the bill is a step toward meeting the goals of the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. All heating oil sold in New York must have at least five percent biodiesel by July 1, 10 percent by 2025, and 20 percent by 2030. Blending requirements are already in effect in Long Island and New York City.

New York will require biofuel blending in heating oil

The Chinese government considering safety approval for more genetically modified corn varieties put out by its domestic producers. Bloomberg says that could lead to planting more of these crops within the world’s top corn buyer. 

China’s agriculture ministry is looking for public opinion on the safety approval of three GMO corn varieties and seven new GMO cotton strains. Beijing allows imports of GMO crops for processing, and they can’t be used as seeds. 

Genetically modified crops are grown by many of the world’s top crop producers, including the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. Other countries limit their use due to health and environmental concerns. 

China’s move comes as the country has bought large amount of grain supplies from around the globe to feed their hog herd, which is still recovering from African Swine Fever. Beijing focused more on its own food security through the past year, including more self-sufficiency in staple grains.

The Chinese government considering safety approval for more genetically modified corn varieties put out by its domestic producers. Bloomberg says that could lead to planting more of these crops within the world’s top corn buyer. China’s agriculture ministry is looking for public opinion on the safety approval of three GMO corn varieties and seven new GMO cotton strains. Beijing allows imports of GMO crops for processing, and they can’t be used as seeds. Genetically modified crops are grown by many of the world’s top crop producers, including the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. Other countries limit their use due to health and environmental concerns. China’s move comes as the country has bought large amount of grain supplies from around the globe to feed their hog herd, which is still recovering from African Swine Fever. Beijing focused more on its own food security through the past year, including more self-sufficiency in staple grains.

China to approve domestic GMO corn varieties

U.S. farmland supply-and-demand is different than in recent years. As commodity prices rose this year and investor interest returned to the market, the supply of available farmland followed suit. 

Randy Dickhut of Farmers National Company tells Ag Web Dot Com that over the past year, most of the Grain Belt saw increasing amounts of land getting sold. 

“A number of states saw at least a 10 percent rise in the number of transactions,” Dickhut says. 

Schrader Real Estate and Auction company tells Ag Web that his firm had twice as many sales above $10,000 an acre as they did in 2019. This year saw 60 percent more sales above $10,000 per acre than they did last year. 

Dickhut says if the factors supporting land prices stay pointed in the same direction, the market should stay firm and may even climb somewhat higher. “Things could change if those factors change, or unexpected events take place,” Dickhut says.

U.S. farmland supply-and-demand is different than in recent years. As commodity prices rose this year and investor interest returned to the market, the supply of available farmland followed suit. Randy Dickhut of Farmers National Company tells Ag Web Dot Com that over the past year, most of the Grain Belt saw increasing amounts of land getting sold. “A number of states saw at least a 10 percent rise in the number of transactions,” Dickhut says. Schrader Real Estate and Auction company tells Ag Web that his firm had twice as many sales above $10,000 an acre as they did in 2019. This year saw 60 percent more sales above $10,000 per acre than they did last year. Dickhut says if the factors supporting land prices stay pointed in the same direction, the market should stay firm and may even climb somewhat higher. “Things could change if those factors change, or unexpected events take place,” Dickhut says.

Farmland prices in 2022

The Wall Street Journal says farmers plan to plant more corn, soybeans, and wheat than last year, but they also face more uncertainty. 

The Wall Street Journal says a banner year for grain prices has U.S. farmers planting even more commodities than they did last year. 

However, high fertilizer prices, forecasts for more weather challenges, and the threat of China slowing its demand for global commodities may put a damper on the anticipation. 

“Row crops this year soared to highs not seen in years,” the Wall Street Journal article says. “Those highs came about because of surging global demand and inflation, so farmers will likely increase planting as they try to sustain the momentum of 2021.” 

However, analysts and investors say geopolitics may bring more volatility to prices next year. The biggest potential disruptions to international trade include U.S. and China tensions and the Russian troop buildup near Ukraine’s border.

The Wall Street Journal says farmers plan to plant more corn, soybeans, and wheat than last year, but they also face more uncertainty. The Wall Street Journal says a banner year for grain prices has U.S. farmers planting even more commodities than they did last year. However, high fertilizer prices, forecasts for more weather challenges, and the threat of China slowing its demand for global commodities may put a damper on the anticipation. “Row crops this year soared to highs not seen in years,” the Wall Street Journal article says. “Those highs came about because of surging global demand and inflation, so farmers will likely increase planting as they try to sustain the momentum of 2021.” However, analysts and investors say geopolitics may bring more volatility to prices next year. The biggest potential disruptions to international trade include U.S. and China tensions and the Russian troop buildup near Ukraine’s border.

More planting, more uncertainty ahead

The University of Illinois’ Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics set its corn and soybean break-even prices for 2022. 

Break-even prices farmers need to reach to cover their total cost of production are projected at $4.73 a bushel for corn and $11.06 a bushel for soybeans. These break-even prices are quite high compared to historical levels. 

From 2013 to 2021, actual break-even prices for corn averaged $4.00 a bushel, well below the 2022 projected level. 

The break-even prices for soybeans averaged $8.92 a bushel, well below the 2022 level.&nbsp;&nbsp;While many recent bids were above break-even levels, the higher break-evens present a risk in 2022 as corn and soybean production costs will increase to record levels. 

The factors pushing costs higher include high commodity prices, inflation pressures, and supply disruptions. By far, the input with the biggest cost increase will be fertilizer. The University of Illinois says commodity pricing some grain at current levels would be prudent.

The University of Illinois’ Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics set its corn and soybean break-even prices for 2022. Break-even prices farmers need to reach to cover their total cost of production are projected at $4.73 a bushel for corn and $11.06 a bushel for soybeans. These break-even prices are quite high compared to historical levels. From 2013 to 2021, actual break-even prices for corn averaged $4.00 a bushel, well below the 2022 projected level. The break-even prices for soybeans averaged $8.92 a bushel, well below the 2022 level.&nbsp;&nbsp;While many recent bids were above break-even levels, the higher break-evens present a risk in 2022 as corn and soybean production costs will increase to record levels. The factors pushing costs higher include high commodity prices, inflation pressures, and supply disruptions. By far, the input with the biggest cost increase will be fertilizer. The University of Illinois says commodity pricing some grain at current levels would be prudent.

U of Illinois sees higher corn and soybean break-even prices

The USDA says the Consumer Price Index for Food moved higher in November, rising 0.5 percent from October to reach levels that are 6.1 percent higher than November 2020. 

The level of food price inflation varies depending on whether the food was purchased for consumption at home or away from home. 

The food-away-from-home, or restaurant purchases, CPI increased 0.6 percent in November 2021 and was 5.8 percent higher than November of last year. The food-at-home, or grocery store purchases, CPI increased 0.3 percent from October to November and was 6.4 percent higher than November 2020. 

So far this year, the year-to-date average food-at-home prices have increased 3.1 percent and food-away-from-home prices increased by 4.2 percent. 

The all-food Consumer Price Index combined to jump by an average of 3.6 percent. The beef and veal category had the biggest relative price increase of 8.7 percent. The vegetable category saw the smallest jump at 0.9 percent.

The USDA says the Consumer Price Index for Food moved higher in November, rising 0.5 percent from October to reach levels that are 6.1 percent higher than November 2020. The level of food price inflation varies depending on whether the food was purchased for consumption at home or away from home. The food-away-from-home, or restaurant purchases, CPI increased 0.6 percent in November 2021 and was 5.8 percent higher than November of last year. The food-at-home, or grocery store purchases, CPI increased 0.3 percent from October to November and was 6.4 percent higher than November 2020. So far this year, the year-to-date average food-at-home prices have increased 3.1 percent and food-away-from-home prices increased by 4.2 percent. The all-food Consumer Price Index combined to jump by an average of 3.6 percent. The beef and veal category had the biggest relative price increase of 8.7 percent. The vegetable category saw the smallest jump at 0.9 percent.

Price of food moves higher in November

A recent Bloomberg report says China, which consumes half the world’s pork, has a goal to be mostly self-sufficient in pork production. That means it will need more grain imports to feed the world’s biggest pig herd. 

China’s agriculture ministry says the country will maintain a target to produce 95 percent of their protein at home by 2025. It wants to be self-sufficient in poultry and eggs, 85 percent for beef and mutton, and 70 percent for dairy. 

Farm Policy News says the targets will likely bolster overseas purchases of soybeans and feed grains needed to fatten hogs, cattle, and poultry. China is already the world’s largest importer of soybeans and corn. 

The Asian nation has been purchasing unprecedented amounts in the past two years to help feed a hog herd recovering from Swine Fever. China’s president Xi Jinping recently urged his country to protect farmland and expand soybean and oil crops planting.

A recent Bloomberg report says China, which consumes half the world’s pork, has a goal to be mostly self-sufficient in pork production. That means it will need more grain imports to feed the world’s biggest pig herd. China’s agriculture ministry says the country will maintain a target to produce 95 percent of their protein at home by 2025. It wants to be self-sufficient in poultry and eggs, 85 percent for beef and mutton, and 70 percent for dairy. Farm Policy News says the targets will likely bolster overseas purchases of soybeans and feed grains needed to fatten hogs, cattle, and poultry. China is already the world’s largest importer of soybeans and corn. The Asian nation has been purchasing unprecedented amounts in the past two years to help feed a hog herd recovering from Swine Fever. China’s president Xi Jinping recently urged his country to protect farmland and expand soybean and oil crops planting.

China’s pork production increases mean more grain imports

Kansas City Southern says its sale to Canadian Pacific Railway is officially complete. The deal is estimated to be worth $31 billion. CP President and CEO Keith Creel says it’s a historic day for both companies. 

“CPKC will become the backbone connecting our customers to new markets, enhancing competition in the U.S. rail network, and driving economic growth across North America,” Creel says. 

“All of this happens while we will deliver significant environmental benefits. We’re excited to be on a path to creating a truly unique North American railroad.” The Kansas City Southern board of directors and management team says they are proud of the countless contributions and achievements of all those who work for KCS. 

A company statement says, “We are excited for the possibilities that open to us through this combination with CP and look forward to the next chapter.” The companies await approval from the Surface Transportation Board allowing CP’s control of KCS railroads.

Kansas City Southern says its sale to Canadian Pacific Railway is officially complete. The deal is estimated to be worth $31 billion. CP President and CEO Keith Creel says it’s a historic day for both companies. “CPKC will become the backbone connecting our customers to new markets, enhancing competition in the U.S. rail network, and driving economic growth across North America,” Creel says. “All of this happens while we will deliver significant environmental benefits. We’re excited to be on a path to creating a truly unique North American railroad.” The Kansas City Southern board of directors and management team says they are proud of the countless contributions and achievements of all those who work for KCS. A company statement says, “We are excited for the possibilities that open to us through this combination with CP and look forward to the next chapter.” The companies await approval from the Surface Transportation Board allowing CP’s control of KCS railroads.

Kansas City Southern Railroad sale completed

As of December 1, U.S. farms held 74.2 million hogs and pigs, a four percent drop from the same time in 2020. It’s also a one percent drop from September 1, 2021. 

Those numbers come from the latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report published by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of those 74.2 million hogs and pigs, 68 million were market hogs, and just over six million were kept for breeding. 

Between September and November of this year, U.S. farmers weaned 33.7 million pigs, down four percent from the same period in 2020. Hog producers also weaned an average of 11.19 pigs per litter. 

U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.94 million sows farrow between December 2021 and February 2022. They’ll also have just over three million sows farrow from March to May 2022. Iowa had the largest inventory among the states at 23.8 million head, followed by Minnesota at 8.9 million.

As of December 1, U.S. farms held 74.2 million hogs and pigs, a four percent drop from the same time in 2020. It’s also a one percent drop from September 1, 2021. Those numbers come from the latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report published by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of those 74.2 million hogs and pigs, 68 million were market hogs, and just over six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November of this year, U.S. farmers weaned 33.7 million pigs, down four percent from the same period in 2020. Hog producers also weaned an average of 11.19 pigs per litter. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.94 million sows farrow between December 2021 and February 2022. They’ll also have just over three million sows farrow from March to May 2022. Iowa had the largest inventory among the states at 23.8 million head, followed by Minnesota at 8.9 million.

U.S. hog inventory down four percent

After already struggling with drought, California farmers have lost big overseas sales numbers because of a serious shortage of shipping containers brought on by COVID-19. 

A study from the University of California-Davis says the state’s farm belt lost $2.1 billion in exports during a five-month stretch this year because of “containergeddon.” 

A University of Connecticut study says the supply chain mess tying up world commerce has caused California growers 17 percent of their export sales from May to September. 

California nut tree farmers lost big, with estimates at $520 million, followed by the wine industry at $250 million and rice growers losing $120 million. 

Industry experts tell the Sacramento Bee that some export sales are gone and not just delayed. The tree nut market is very seasonal, with big demand at Christmas time, which is now gone for good. The U.C.-Davis report says the losses this year are larger than the financial damage done during the 2018 U.S.-China trade war.

After already struggling with drought, California farmers have lost big overseas sales numbers because of a serious shortage of shipping containers brought on by COVID-19. A study from the University of California-Davis says the state’s farm belt lost $2.1 billion in exports during a five-month stretch this year because of “containergeddon.” A University of Connecticut study says the supply chain mess tying up world commerce has caused California growers 17 percent of their export sales from May to September. California nut tree farmers lost big, with estimates at $520 million, followed by the wine industry at $250 million and rice growers losing $120 million. Industry experts tell the Sacramento Bee that some export sales are gone and not just delayed. The tree nut market is very seasonal, with big demand at Christmas time, which is now gone for good. The U.C.-Davis report says the losses this year are larger than the financial damage done during the 2018 U.S.-China trade war.

CA farmers lose billions over supply chain challenges

American ethanol inventories took a surprising drop last week while production also fell. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. ethanol inventories totaled 20.7 million barrels during the week ending on December 17. 

That’s a drop of almost 200,000 barrels from the prior week. Dow Jones industrial analysts did a recent survey that found stocks forecast to rise anywhere from 200,000 barrels to over 300,000 barrels. 

Daily production also dropped during the week, with production down by 36,000 barrels per day to 1.05 million a day. Analysts had expected production to rise slightly from the previous week. 

The Midwest is by far the largest producing region in the country, but output still fell to 991,000 barrels a day, on average, from 1.025 million barrels the previous week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Output for the week ending December 17 was the lowest total in three weeks. Inventories were down narrowly, falling to 20.705 million barrels, down from 20.88 million barrels the previous week.

American ethanol inventories took a surprising drop last week while production also fell. The Energy Information Administration says U.S. ethanol inventories totaled 20.7 million barrels during the week ending on December 17. That’s a drop of almost 200,000 barrels from the prior week. Dow Jones industrial analysts did a recent survey that found stocks forecast to rise anywhere from 200,000 barrels to over 300,000 barrels. Daily production also dropped during the week, with production down by 36,000 barrels per day to 1.05 million a day. Analysts had expected production to rise slightly from the previous week. The Midwest is by far the largest producing region in the country, but output still fell to 991,000 barrels a day, on average, from 1.025 million barrels the previous week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Output for the week ending December 17 was the lowest total in three weeks. Inventories were down narrowly, falling to 20.705 million barrels, down from 20.88 million barrels the previous week.

Ethanol stocks unexpectedly decline

A three-judge panel unanimously dismissed a challenge to the North Carolina “Right to Farm” Act. 

National Hog Farmer says the challenge got brought by the Rural Empowerment Association for Community Help, North Carolina Environmental Justice Community Action Network, and Waterkeeper Alliance in 2019. 

The ruling was similar to a decision made earlier this year by a special panel of three Superior Court Judges. In 2017, North Carolina lawmakers passed legislation to clarify and strengthen the state’s Right to Farm laws to protect and ensure farming can continue in the state. 

The Act first got passed in 1979 and then further strengthened in 2013. Legislators added more clarification in 2017 and 2018 after a federal judge allowed nuisance lawsuits to get filed against swine farms in federal court.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This case got brought against the Right to Farm Act as a whole, so there is a possibility it could get challenged again in the future over a specific incident.

A three-judge panel unanimously dismissed a challenge to the North Carolina “Right to Farm” Act. National Hog Farmer says the challenge got brought by the Rural Empowerment Association for Community Help, North Carolina Environmental Justice Community Action Network, and Waterkeeper Alliance in 2019. The ruling was similar to a decision made earlier this year by a special panel of three Superior Court Judges. In 2017, North Carolina lawmakers passed legislation to clarify and strengthen the state’s Right to Farm laws to protect and ensure farming can continue in the state. The Act first got passed in 1979 and then further strengthened in 2013. Legislators added more clarification in 2017 and 2018 after a federal judge allowed nuisance lawsuits to get filed against swine farms in federal court.&nbsp;&nbsp;This case got brought against the Right to Farm Act as a whole, so there is a possibility it could get challenged again in the future over a specific incident.

N.C. “Right to Farm” Act upheld in Court of Appeals

Following approval by the Massachusetts Legislature, Governor Charlie Baker Wednesday signed into law a measure delaying implementation of the state's Question 3 initiative. 

Delayed until August 15, 2022, the 2016 ballot initiative, like California’s Proposition 12, will ban the sale of pork from hogs born to sows housed in pens that don’t comply with Massachusetts’ new standards. 

It applies to any uncooked pork sold in the state, whether it’s produced there or outside its borders. Nearly all pork currently produced in the United States fails to meet Massachusetts’ arbitrary standards. 

National Pork Producers Council President Jen Sorenson says, "Question 3, like Prop. 12, lacks any scientific, technical or agricultural basis and only will inflict economic harm on America's pork producers." 

In addition to delaying the initiative's implementation, the compromise measure requires the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to write rules and regulations for the law, in consultation with the state's attorney general within six months.

Following approval by the Massachusetts Legislature, Governor Charlie Baker Wednesday signed into law a measure delaying implementation of the state's Question 3 initiative. Delayed until August 15, 2022, the 2016 ballot initiative, like California’s Proposition 12, will ban the sale of pork from hogs born to sows housed in pens that don’t comply with Massachusetts’ new standards. It applies to any uncooked pork sold in the state, whether it’s produced there or outside its borders. Nearly all pork currently produced in the United States fails to meet Massachusetts’ arbitrary standards. National Pork Producers Council President Jen Sorenson says, "Question 3, like Prop. 12, lacks any scientific, technical or agricultural basis and only will inflict economic harm on America's pork producers." In addition to delaying the initiative's implementation, the compromise measure requires the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to write rules and regulations for the law, in consultation with the state's attorney general within six months.

Massachusetts delays effective date of Question 3

Several of the country's leading agricultural cooperatives are mobilizing to support communities impacted by severe weather that swept the South and Midwest this month. 

AgFirst, CoBank, Farm Credit East, Farm Credit Illinois, Farm Credit Mid-America, Farm Credit Services of America, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, Land O'Lakes, and Rural 1st have committed nearly $700,000 to national, state and local charities. 

The beneficiaries are the American Red Cross, Feeding America, the Kentucky Agriculture Relief Fund, the Kentucky Rural Electric Disaster Fund, the Tennessee Farm Disaster Response Fund, the Mayfield Tornado Relief Fund, and Rotary International Dresden, Tennessee. 

Meanwhile, Tyson Foods donated $100,000 in wildfire relief to Kansas farmers and ranchers. The Kansas Livestock Foundation is accepting donations to support farmers and ranchers impacted by the fire. The fires burned an estimated 400,000 acres across four counties, a region home to several cattle suppliers for Tyson Foods.

Several of the country's leading agricultural cooperatives are mobilizing to support communities impacted by severe weather that swept the South and Midwest this month. AgFirst, CoBank, Farm Credit East, Farm Credit Illinois, Farm Credit Mid-America, Farm Credit Services of America, Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, Land O'Lakes, and Rural 1st have committed nearly $700,000 to national, state and local charities. The beneficiaries are the American Red Cross, Feeding America, the Kentucky Agriculture Relief Fund, the Kentucky Rural Electric Disaster Fund, the Tennessee Farm Disaster Response Fund, the Mayfield Tornado Relief Fund, and Rotary International Dresden, Tennessee. Meanwhile, Tyson Foods donated $100,000 in wildfire relief to Kansas farmers and ranchers. The Kansas Livestock Foundation is accepting donations to support farmers and ranchers impacted by the fire. The fires burned an estimated 400,000 acres across four counties, a region home to several cattle suppliers for Tyson Foods.

Donations announced for tornado outbreak, Kansas wildfire victims

Culver's Thank You Farmers Project has now raised more than $3.5 million since its creation in 2013. In 2021, the program raised $500,000 toward its mission of advocating for the positive impact agriculture has on the world. 

Culver's reaches the milestone at a critical time, as the rapidly growing world population places increasing reliance on a climate-smart agricultural system to produce an abundant, nutritious food supply. 

Money raised through the project directly supports people making a positive impact in the industry, including those involved with local agriculture efforts in the communities Culver's calls home and larger, national projects advancing the industry. 

Culver's also took steps in 2021 to support the creation of a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future by joining the Decade of Ag Movement. The Decade of Ag Movement is the first food and agriculture sector-wide movement to create a shared vision for a climate-smart agricultural system.

Culver's Thank You Farmers Project has now raised more than $3.5 million since its creation in 2013. In 2021, the program raised $500,000 toward its mission of advocating for the positive impact agriculture has on the world. Culver's reaches the milestone at a critical time, as the rapidly growing world population places increasing reliance on a climate-smart agricultural system to produce an abundant, nutritious food supply. Money raised through the project directly supports people making a positive impact in the industry, including those involved with local agriculture efforts in the communities Culver's calls home and larger, national projects advancing the industry. Culver's also took steps in 2021 to support the creation of a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future by joining the Decade of Ag Movement. The Decade of Ag Movement is the first food and agriculture sector-wide movement to create a shared vision for a climate-smart agricultural system.

Culver’s "Thank You Farmers" donations surpass $3.5 million

University-level researchers say pork prices, not industry profits, are rising. Economists from Iowa State University and North Carolina State University released the report Tuesday with the National Pork Producers Council. 

The report shows prices are rising due to increased transportation costs, supply bottlenecks and delays and increased labor costs throughout the supply chain, caused or intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, “increased profits, whether at the retail, wholesale, or farm level, are likely not a significant contributor to the rising prices.” 

Other factors include a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing capacity that resulted from a federal court order stopping faster harvesting line speeds, higher energy costs, rising feed costs, and a shortage of workers, which hindered productivity and caused wages to increase. 

NPPC says the long-term outlook for labor, a critical factor in easing supply chain challenges and high prices, is dependent on future immigration policy and agricultural labor reform.

University-level researchers say pork prices, not industry profits, are rising. Economists from Iowa State University and North Carolina State University released the report Tuesday with the National Pork Producers Council. The report shows prices are rising due to increased transportation costs, supply bottlenecks and delays and increased labor costs throughout the supply chain, caused or intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, “increased profits, whether at the retail, wholesale, or farm level, are likely not a significant contributor to the rising prices.” Other factors include a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing capacity that resulted from a federal court order stopping faster harvesting line speeds, higher energy costs, rising feed costs, and a shortage of workers, which hindered productivity and caused wages to increase. NPPC says the long-term outlook for labor, a critical factor in easing supply chain challenges and high prices, is dependent on future immigration policy and agricultural labor reform.

Wages, input costs and supply chain problems pushing up pork prices but not profits

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday gifted Texas A&amp;M University $500,000 this holiday season to establish international fellowship programs. 

The award is for the University’s Norman Borlaug Institute to establish and teach school-based programs in Guatemala through the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program. 

Administered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Administrator Daniel Whitley says the program will “help meet the food and fiber needs of Guatemalan communities.” 

That objective, according to Whitley, aligns with the Biden administration’s priorities for addressing the root causes of migration from the Northern Triangle region of Central America.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Each Fellow will spend up to ten months in Guatemala during the 2022-2023 school year teaching agricultural skills and training youth at secondary schools and rural communities, activities that also support the U.S. Government Global Food Security Strategy. 

While on the ground, fellows will collaborate with existing U.S. Government projects to ensure synergy and to maximize benefits across programs.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday gifted Texas A&amp;M University $500,000 this holiday season to establish international fellowship programs. The award is for the University’s Norman Borlaug Institute to establish and teach school-based programs in Guatemala through the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program. Administered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Administrator Daniel Whitley says the program will “help meet the food and fiber needs of Guatemalan communities.” That objective, according to Whitley, aligns with the Biden administration’s priorities for addressing the root causes of migration from the Northern Triangle region of Central America.&nbsp;&nbsp;Each Fellow will spend up to ten months in Guatemala during the 2022-2023 school year teaching agricultural skills and training youth at secondary schools and rural communities, activities that also support the U.S. Government Global Food Security Strategy. While on the ground, fellows will collaborate with existing U.S. Government projects to ensure synergy and to maximize benefits across programs.

USDA awards $500,000 to Texas A&M for International Fellowship Program

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the deadline for farmers who are certified organic, or transitioning to organic, to apply for pandemic assistance. 

The Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program helps cover certification and education expenses. The deadline to apply for 2020 and 2021 eligible expenses is now February 4, 2022, rather than the original deadline of January 7, 2022. 

Certified operations and transitional operations may apply for eligible expenses paid during the 2020, 2021 and 2022 fiscal years. Signup for the 2022 fiscal year will be announced at a later date. 

For each year, the program covers 25 percent of a certified operation’s eligible certification expenses, up to $250 per certification category – crop, livestock, wild crop, handling and State Organic Program fee. 

This includes application fees, inspection fees, USDA organic certification costs, state organic program fees and more. Producers can learn more and apply through their local FSA office.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the deadline for farmers who are certified organic, or transitioning to organic, to apply for pandemic assistance. The Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program helps cover certification and education expenses. The deadline to apply for 2020 and 2021 eligible expenses is now February 4, 2022, rather than the original deadline of January 7, 2022. Certified operations and transitional operations may apply for eligible expenses paid during the 2020, 2021 and 2022 fiscal years. Signup for the 2022 fiscal year will be announced at a later date. For each year, the program covers 25 percent of a certified operation’s eligible certification expenses, up to $250 per certification category – crop, livestock, wild crop, handling and State Organic Program fee. This includes application fees, inspection fees, USDA organic certification costs, state organic program fees and more. Producers can learn more and apply through their local FSA office.

Deadline extended to apply for pandemic support for organic operations

The nation's average gas price declined for the sixth straight week, down 2.9 cents from a week ago at $3.30 per gallon. The national average is down 11 cents from a month ago and $1.09 per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel declined two cents in the last week and stands at $3.58 per gallon. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “The decline in gas prices will likely continue until new Covid cases slow down.” 

De Haan says the U.S. may see Christmas gas prices fall just under their all-time high on the holiday, which was $3.26 in 2013. Beyond Christmas, with omicron cases likely to continue climbing, there will likely be a more noticeable hit on gasoline demand once the holidays are over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week, likely as motorists get out and finish their gift buying ahead of Christmas. Nationally, weekly gasoline demand was up 2.9 percent from the prior week.

The nation's average gas price declined for the sixth straight week, down 2.9 cents from a week ago at $3.30 per gallon. The national average is down 11 cents from a month ago and $1.09 per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel declined two cents in the last week and stands at $3.58 per gallon. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “The decline in gas prices will likely continue until new Covid cases slow down.” De Haan says the U.S. may see Christmas gas prices fall just under their all-time high on the holiday, which was $3.26 in 2013. Beyond Christmas, with omicron cases likely to continue climbing, there will likely be a more noticeable hit on gasoline demand once the holidays are over.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week, likely as motorists get out and finish their gift buying ahead of Christmas. Nationally, weekly gasoline demand was up 2.9 percent from the prior week.

Fuel prices continue decline ahead of Christmas

USDA is leveraging its authorities under the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to bring in new types of partners and expand opportunities in voluntary conservation. 

In direct response to feedback from stakeholders, USDA updated the program’s rule regarding matching fund requirements, and invested in additional staff to work directly with partners. 

The program is part of the Conservation Reserve Program and enables USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, through Farm Service Agency, and partners to co-invest in partner-led projects. 

The program also plays an important role in USDA’s broader climate change strategy, bringing together producers, landowners and partners for climate-smart land management. 

The rule also updated policy to provide a full annual rental rate to producers impacted by ordinances and regulations that require a resource conserving or environmental protection measure.&nbsp; At present, all partners are States. 

However, FSA is strongly encouraging Tribes and non-governmental organizations to consider partnerships. Currently, the program has 34 projects in 26 states, and more than 860,000 acres are enrolled.

USDA is leveraging its authorities under the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to bring in new types of partners and expand opportunities in voluntary conservation. In direct response to feedback from stakeholders, USDA updated the program’s rule regarding matching fund requirements, and invested in additional staff to work directly with partners. The program is part of the Conservation Reserve Program and enables USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, through Farm Service Agency, and partners to co-invest in partner-led projects. The program also plays an important role in USDA’s broader climate change strategy, bringing together producers, landowners and partners for climate-smart land management. The rule also updated policy to provide a full annual rental rate to producers impacted by ordinances and regulations that require a resource conserving or environmental protection measure.&nbsp; At present, all partners are States. However, FSA is strongly encouraging Tribes and non-governmental organizations to consider partnerships. Currently, the program has 34 projects in 26 states, and more than 860,000 acres are enrolled.

USDA expands partnerships for conservation

The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection. 

USDA expects to appoint committee members in 2022. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "attracting and appointing individuals from diverse perspectives and expertise to serve on the committee will be essential to accomplishing our food safety goals." 

USDA seeks nominations from individuals with knowledge and interest in meat and poultry food safety and other FSIS policies. USDA also seeks representation of small and very small establishments and geographic diversity of members. 

Persons in academia, industry, state and local government officials, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations are invited to submit nominations, and self-nominations are welcomed. 

Established in 1971 by FSIS, the committee consists of 20 members and provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety concerns. Nominations packages must be received by February 18, 2022.

The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection. USDA expects to appoint committee members in 2022. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "attracting and appointing individuals from diverse perspectives and expertise to serve on the committee will be essential to accomplishing our food safety goals." USDA seeks nominations from individuals with knowledge and interest in meat and poultry food safety and other FSIS policies. USDA also seeks representation of small and very small establishments and geographic diversity of members. Persons in academia, industry, state and local government officials, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations are invited to submit nominations, and self-nominations are welcomed. Established in 1971 by FSIS, the committee consists of 20 members and provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety concerns. Nominations packages must be received by February 18, 2022.

USDA seeks nominations for membership on Food Safety Advisory Committee

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley sent a letter to Attorney General Garland calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the fertilizer industry. 

American farmers are raising concerns about possible anti-competitive activity and market manipulation. 

Grassley says fertilizer is an essential input for farmers across the country, and without it, crop yields and agricultural productivity would get significantly smaller. 

“I have heard numerous concerns from Iowans and member organizations who are concerned that fertilizer companies are colluding and unfairly raising the price of their products,” Grassley writes in the letter. 

The industry has seen dramatic growth in prices: nitrogen fertilizer has doubled in price, anhydrous rose by 131 percent, urea by 110 percent, and potash up 120 percent. 

“The DOJ should investigate the fertilizer market so farmers across the country can get assurances that there are no violations of U.S. antitrust law in the fertilizer industry,” Grassley says. “Fertilizer tariffs are placing a huge financial burden on farmers.” &nbsp;

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley sent a letter to Attorney General Garland calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the fertilizer industry. American farmers are raising concerns about possible anti-competitive activity and market manipulation. Grassley says fertilizer is an essential input for farmers across the country, and without it, crop yields and agricultural productivity would get significantly smaller. “I have heard numerous concerns from Iowans and member organizations who are concerned that fertilizer companies are colluding and unfairly raising the price of their products,” Grassley writes in the letter. The industry has seen dramatic growth in prices: nitrogen fertilizer has doubled in price, anhydrous rose by 131 percent, urea by 110 percent, and potash up 120 percent. “The DOJ should investigate the fertilizer market so farmers across the country can get assurances that there are no violations of U.S. antitrust law in the fertilizer industry,” Grassley says. “Fertilizer tariffs are placing a huge financial burden on farmers.” &nbsp;

Grassley: Investigation needed in the fertilizer industry

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack are asking the world’s leading ocean carriers to get rid of disruptions to agricultural shippers of American exports. 

They want relief for the supply chain disruptions created by COVID-19 by restoring reciprocal treatment of imports and exports and improving service. Ocean carriers have made fewer containers available for U.S. agricultural commodities. 

They’ve also repeatedly changed return dates and charged unfair fees as the ocean carriers short-circuited the normal pathways and rushed containers back to be exported empty. The poor service and refusal to serve customers is exemplified by many ocean carriers suspending service to the Port of Oakland. 

DOT and USDA are calling on carriers to utilize available terminal capacity more fully on the West Coast. They note that West Coast ports have excess capacity to alleviate supply-chain congestion. Restoring service to Oakland would ease congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack are asking the world’s leading ocean carriers to get rid of disruptions to agricultural shippers of American exports. They want relief for the supply chain disruptions created by COVID-19 by restoring reciprocal treatment of imports and exports and improving service. Ocean carriers have made fewer containers available for U.S. agricultural commodities. They’ve also repeatedly changed return dates and charged unfair fees as the ocean carriers short-circuited the normal pathways and rushed containers back to be exported empty. The poor service and refusal to serve customers is exemplified by many ocean carriers suspending service to the Port of Oakland. DOT and USDA are calling on carriers to utilize available terminal capacity more fully on the West Coast. They note that West Coast ports have excess capacity to alleviate supply-chain congestion. Restoring service to Oakland would ease congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Transportation, ag departments want better shipping service for agriculture

The National Corn Growers Association says one of the top fertilizer companies has erected an insurmountable barrier to keep top competitors out of the U.S. market. 

An NCGA letter says the barrier is hurting America’s farmers. NCGA and its state affiliates signed a letter sent to Mosaic, one of the nation’s top fertilizer producers. The letter takes Mosaic to task for the tariffs that were imposed in March by the International Trade Commission at the fertilizer company’s request. 

“Mosaic’s posture to date has been a masterpiece of irresponsible corporate social responsibility,” the letter adds. “Only 15 percent of phosphorous imports now come into the U.S. without tariffs.” 

The organization also points out that experts say using the Commerce Department and the Trade Commission to manipulate the supply curve does indeed dictate the price to farmers. The Corn Growers are asking Mosaic to reverse course and allow critical supply back into the U.S.

The National Corn Growers Association says one of the top fertilizer companies has erected an insurmountable barrier to keep top competitors out of the U.S. market. An NCGA letter says the barrier is hurting America’s farmers. NCGA and its state affiliates signed a letter sent to Mosaic, one of the nation’s top fertilizer producers. The letter takes Mosaic to task for the tariffs that were imposed in March by the International Trade Commission at the fertilizer company’s request. “Mosaic’s posture to date has been a masterpiece of irresponsible corporate social responsibility,” the letter adds. “Only 15 percent of phosphorous imports now come into the U.S. without tariffs.” The organization also points out that experts say using the Commerce Department and the Trade Commission to manipulate the supply curve does indeed dictate the price to farmers. The Corn Growers are asking Mosaic to reverse course and allow critical supply back into the U.S.