Clean Fuels Alliance sent a letter to President Biden to tell the administration the group is ready to help maintain homegrown fuel supplies, mitigate pain at the pump, and support a clean energy future. 

The letter asks the administration to get the Renewable Fuel Standard back on track as a key driver of America’s energy independence. 

“America’s biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are working hard to provide better, cleaner fuels that provide consumers value and extend the diesel fuel supply,” the letter says. 

The letter requests that the administration quickly finalize the proposed RFS volumes for 2021 and 2022 and drop the proposal to “reset” previously established 2020 volumes. 

“Since homegrown biodiesel and renewable diesel are direct replacements for foreign oil, a strong RFS is more important today than ever for America’s national security,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs. “The RFS is a cornerstone of America’s energy independence.”

Clean Fuels Alliance sent a letter to President Biden to tell the administration the group is ready to help maintain homegrown fuel supplies, mitigate pain at the pump, and support a clean energy future. The letter asks the administration to get the Renewable Fuel Standard back on track as a key driver of America’s energy independence. “America’s biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are working hard to provide better, cleaner fuels that provide consumers value and extend the diesel fuel supply,” the letter says. The letter requests that the administration quickly finalize the proposed RFS volumes for 2021 and 2022 and drop the proposal to “reset” previously established 2020 volumes. “Since homegrown biodiesel and renewable diesel are direct replacements for foreign oil, a strong RFS is more important today than ever for America’s national security,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs. “The RFS is a cornerstone of America’s energy independence.”

Clean Fuels Alliance asks administration to support RFS

The March World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates 2021-2022 U.S. wheat supply and demand outlook calls for lower supplies, unchanged domestic use, reduced exports, and higher ending stocks. 

Wheat exports dropped 10 million bushels, while imports dropped five million bushels from last month, all in Hard Red Winter Wheat. The season-average farm price rose 20 cents a bushel to $7.50. The corn supply and demand outlook is for increased food, seed, and industrial use, larger exports, and smaller stocks. Export projections rose 75 million bushels to 2.5 billion, which reflects an expectation of sharply lower exports from Ukraine. 

Corn for ethanol use is up 25 million bushels to 5.35 billion. The projected season-average price rose 20 cents to $5.65. Soybeans are looking at higher exports and lower ending stocks compared to last month. Exports rose by 40 million bushels while ending stocks dropped by 40 million bushels to a projected 285 million. The season-average price rose 25 cents to $13.25.

The March World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates 2021-2022 U.S. wheat supply and demand outlook calls for lower supplies, unchanged domestic use, reduced exports, and higher ending stocks. Wheat exports dropped 10 million bushels, while imports dropped five million bushels from last month, all in Hard Red Winter Wheat. The season-average farm price rose 20 cents a bushel to $7.50. The corn supply and demand outlook is for increased food, seed, and industrial use, larger exports, and smaller stocks. Export projections rose 75 million bushels to 2.5 billion, which reflects an expectation of sharply lower exports from Ukraine. Corn for ethanol use is up 25 million bushels to 5.35 billion. The projected season-average price rose 20 cents to $5.65. Soybeans are looking at higher exports and lower ending stocks compared to last month. Exports rose by 40 million bushels while ending stocks dropped by 40 million bushels to a projected 285 million. The season-average price rose 25 cents to $13.25.

March WASDE assess short-term Impacts of Russia-Ukraine War

The Senate Agriculture Committee’s Ranking Member, John Boozman of Arkansas, wrote a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking for a delay in the deadline for farmers to sign up for CRP. 

With inflation at a 40-year high and global food prices reaching a new record last month, Boozman wants the administration and USDA to look at ways of increasing food production. 

“To that end, I request that you delay the sign-up deadline for the Conservation Reserve Program until farmers have a better understanding of supply disruptions associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” Boozman says. “A delay will allow farmers to evaluate whether it’s better to raise and insure a crop or enroll the land in CRP.” 

Boozman also points out that should the conditions in Ukraine continue to deteriorate, giving livestock producers continued opportunities to graze livestock on CRP ground without penalty should get consideration. The general CRP sign-up deadline is March 11.

The Senate Agriculture Committee’s Ranking Member, John Boozman of Arkansas, wrote a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking for a delay in the deadline for farmers to sign up for CRP. With inflation at a 40-year high and global food prices reaching a new record last month, Boozman wants the administration and USDA to look at ways of increasing food production. “To that end, I request that you delay the sign-up deadline for the Conservation Reserve Program until farmers have a better understanding of supply disruptions associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” Boozman says. “A delay will allow farmers to evaluate whether it’s better to raise and insure a crop or enroll the land in CRP.” Boozman also points out that should the conditions in Ukraine continue to deteriorate, giving livestock producers continued opportunities to graze livestock on CRP ground without penalty should get consideration. The general CRP sign-up deadline is March 11.

Senator asks for delay in the CRP sign-up deadline

Gas prices are hitting all-time highs, so Iowa senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are asking the president to “unleash biofuels” immediately. 

They want Biden’s support on their bipartisan plan to replace Russian oil with clean-burning, American-made renewable fuels that are available right now. The new bill is called the Home Front Energy Independence Act and would put the ban on Russian oil into law. 

At the same time, the legislation would open up America’s heartland to more biofuel production. The current excess ethanol capacity domestically is nearly the same as the amount of Russian gas the U.S. had been importing, roughly 83 million barrels versus 87 million barrels. 

“Ethanol has been selling at around a $1.20 discount to base gasoline,” Grassley says. “Homegrown biofuels is a quick and clean solution for lowering prices at the pump.” 

The senators say that bolstering production would help the U.S. become energy independent once again.

Gas prices are hitting all-time highs, so Iowa senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are asking the president to “unleash biofuels” immediately. They want Biden’s support on their bipartisan plan to replace Russian oil with clean-burning, American-made renewable fuels that are available right now. The new bill is called the Home Front Energy Independence Act and would put the ban on Russian oil into law. At the same time, the legislation would open up America’s heartland to more biofuel production. The current excess ethanol capacity domestically is nearly the same as the amount of Russian gas the U.S. had been importing, roughly 83 million barrels versus 87 million barrels. “Ethanol has been selling at around a $1.20 discount to base gasoline,” Grassley says. “Homegrown biofuels is a quick and clean solution for lowering prices at the pump.” The senators say that bolstering production would help the U.S. become energy independent once again.

Time to unleash biofuels

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall sent a letter to the Biden Administration asking them to take the necessary steps to address the high energy costs impacting all Americans. 

Over the past 15 months, oil prices have increased by 130 percent to more than $120 per barrel. 

Duvall says, “As Russia’s harmful actions in Ukraine continue and further sanctions get imposed against Russia, oil prices will likely continue to rise, creating even higher consumer costs and threatening U.S. energy and economic security.” 

The organization is asking the administration to remove barriers to domestic energy production and to increase the production of biofuels that have reduced America’s dependence on foreign crude oil while creating jobs in rural America. 

“By displacing imported petroleum, increased biofuel use, and domestic energy production will enhance U.S. security and independence while supporting America’s farmers and rural economies,” Duvall adds. Energy independence continues to be a high priority for the Farm Bureau.

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall sent a letter to the Biden Administration asking them to take the necessary steps to address the high energy costs impacting all Americans. Over the past 15 months, oil prices have increased by 130 percent to more than $120 per barrel. Duvall says, “As Russia’s harmful actions in Ukraine continue and further sanctions get imposed against Russia, oil prices will likely continue to rise, creating even higher consumer costs and threatening U.S. energy and economic security.” The organization is asking the administration to remove barriers to domestic energy production and to increase the production of biofuels that have reduced America’s dependence on foreign crude oil while creating jobs in rural America. “By displacing imported petroleum, increased biofuel use, and domestic energy production will enhance U.S. security and independence while supporting America’s farmers and rural economies,” Duvall adds. Energy independence continues to be a high priority for the Farm Bureau.

Farm Bureau asks for increased domestic energy production

President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday a U.S. ban on Russian oil and other energy imports. 

The goal of the move is to increase pressure on Moscow in retaliation for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

Reuters says the U.S. made the move despite being the world’s biggest oil consumer. However, the U.S. wasn’t the only nation to make a move on oil from Russia. 

Britain says it will end all imports of all Russian oil and oil products by the end of this year. UK’s Business Minister is asking businesses to use the time between now and December 31 as a transition period to make the change as smooth as possible. 

Also, on Tuesday, the European Commission published plans to cut the EU’s dependency on Russian gas by as much as two-thirds this year. The commission also intends to completely end any reliance on Russian supplies of fuel well before 2030.

President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday a U.S. ban on Russian oil and other energy imports. The goal of the move is to increase pressure on Moscow in retaliation for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Reuters says the U.S. made the move despite being the world’s biggest oil consumer. However, the U.S. wasn’t the only nation to make a move on oil from Russia. Britain says it will end all imports of all Russian oil and oil products by the end of this year. UK’s Business Minister is asking businesses to use the time between now and December 31 as a transition period to make the change as smooth as possible. Also, on Tuesday, the European Commission published plans to cut the EU’s dependency on Russian gas by as much as two-thirds this year. The commission also intends to completely end any reliance on Russian supplies of fuel well before 2030.

U.S./UK ban imports of Russian oil

The Iowa congressional delegation is asking Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to prioritize America’s energy independence. 

Specifically, the group that represents the top ethanol-producing state in the country is pushing the administration to promote and incorporate ethanol and other biofuels into the American energy strategy. 

The goal would be to significantly reduce U.S. reliance on foreign oil and gas imports. 

Russia is the world’s third-largest producer of fuel at an average of 10.5 million barrels per day last year. “The U.S. and our allies are now looking to decrease our reliance on Russian oil,” the lawmakers said in a statement. 

“As Russia’s war with Ukraine continues, we urge the Biden administration to expand the production and potential export of domestic ethanol and biodiesel to meet global energy needs.” They also say that bolstering America’s domestic energy production through policies prioritizing biofuels will ensure a reliable and stable energy source for years to come.

The Iowa congressional delegation is asking Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to prioritize America’s energy independence. Specifically, the group that represents the top ethanol-producing state in the country is pushing the administration to promote and incorporate ethanol and other biofuels into the American energy strategy. The goal would be to significantly reduce U.S. reliance on foreign oil and gas imports. Russia is the world’s third-largest producer of fuel at an average of 10.5 million barrels per day last year. “The U.S. and our allies are now looking to decrease our reliance on Russian oil,” the lawmakers said in a statement. “As Russia’s war with Ukraine continues, we urge the Biden administration to expand the production and potential export of domestic ethanol and biodiesel to meet global energy needs.” They also say that bolstering America’s domestic energy production through policies prioritizing biofuels will ensure a reliable and stable energy source for years to come.

Iowa lawmakers want EPA to ramp up biofuel production

The price of oil has increased more than six-fold since the low point early in the pandemic. 

The Washington Post says oil prices haven’t been this high since the financial crisis of 2008. 

Prices continued higher on Monday as fears the United States and its allies in Europe are considering possible bans on imports of Russian crude. 

The White House said last Friday that it’s weighing a ban on imports of Russian oil. The possibility is officially before Congress as West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin and Alaska Republican Lisa Murkowski introduced a bill that would ban American imports of Russian oil. 

U.S. lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are pressuring the White House to hit Russian President Vladimir Putin where it hurts the most by imposing sanctions on Russia’s massive energy sector. “I’m all for that,” said Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi during a recent press conference. “Ban it.”

The price of oil has increased more than six-fold since the low point early in the pandemic. The Washington Post says oil prices haven’t been this high since the financial crisis of 2008. Prices continued higher on Monday as fears the United States and its allies in Europe are considering possible bans on imports of Russian crude. The White House said last Friday that it’s weighing a ban on imports of Russian oil. The possibility is officially before Congress as West Virginia Democrat Joe Manchin and Alaska Republican Lisa Murkowski introduced a bill that would ban American imports of Russian oil. U.S. lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are pressuring the White House to hit Russian President Vladimir Putin where it hurts the most by imposing sanctions on Russia’s massive energy sector. “I’m all for that,” said Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi during a recent press conference. “Ban it.”

Possible ban on Russian oil imports gaining momentum

The world’s biggest importer of commodities is feeling the pinch of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

China is buying large numbers of U.S. corn and soybeans to help offset potential shortages in world commodity supplies because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and slower harvests in South America. 

Bloomberg says Chinese buyers booked 20 cargoes of American soybeans and 10 shipments of corn. 

The purchases show the high demand in China as the country worries about the long-term availability of grains on the world market. The buying is taking place after the Phase One Trade Deal between China and the U.S. expired without targets getting met. 

While both countries are talking about extending the deal, China will likely keep buying more American commodities to get what it needs. As shipments from Russia and Ukraine drastically slow, China has been a major buyer of Ukraine’s corn and barley, as well as sunflower oil from both Ukraine and Russia.

The world’s biggest importer of commodities is feeling the pinch of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. China is buying large numbers of U.S. corn and soybeans to help offset potential shortages in world commodity supplies because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and slower harvests in South America. Bloomberg says Chinese buyers booked 20 cargoes of American soybeans and 10 shipments of corn. The purchases show the high demand in China as the country worries about the long-term availability of grains on the world market. The buying is taking place after the Phase One Trade Deal between China and the U.S. expired without targets getting met. While both countries are talking about extending the deal, China will likely keep buying more American commodities to get what it needs. As shipments from Russia and Ukraine drastically slow, China has been a major buyer of Ukraine’s corn and barley, as well as sunflower oil from both Ukraine and Russia.

China scooping up U.S. corn and soybeans

Growth Energy submitted supplemental comments to the Environmental Protection Agency responding to inaccurate claims from other groups about ethanol. 

In the supplemental submissions, Growth Energy rebuts claims based on a recently published anti-ethanol study with conclusions about the greenhouse gas emission impacts of ethanol that are wildly out of step with the established scientific consensus. 

Environmental experts and leading government agencies agree that ethanol reduces GHG emissions when compared to gasoline, which helps to put our nation on a path toward net-zero emissions. 

“EPA is expected to use the best available science when making important decisions under the RFS and other environmental laws,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The recent comments submitted to EPA very obviously don’t meet this standard and should be rejected outright.”

 The organization points out that the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, the California Air Resources Board, and the EPA have all agreed that biofuels reduce carbon emissions.

Growth Energy submitted supplemental comments to the Environmental Protection Agency responding to inaccurate claims from other groups about ethanol. In the supplemental submissions, Growth Energy rebuts claims based on a recently published anti-ethanol study with conclusions about the greenhouse gas emission impacts of ethanol that are wildly out of step with the established scientific consensus. Environmental experts and leading government agencies agree that ethanol reduces GHG emissions when compared to gasoline, which helps to put our nation on a path toward net-zero emissions. “EPA is expected to use the best available science when making important decisions under the RFS and other environmental laws,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The recent comments submitted to EPA very obviously don’t meet this standard and should be rejected outright.” The organization points out that the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, the California Air Resources Board, and the EPA have all agreed that biofuels reduce carbon emissions.

Growth Energy debunks anti-ethanol study

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. regulators on Monday cleared the way for the sale of beef from gene-edited cattle in coming years after the Food and Drug Administration concluded the animals do not raise any safety concerns.

The cattle by Recombinetics are the third genetically altered animals given the green light for human consumption in the U.S. after salmon and pigs. Many other foods already are made with genetically modified ingredients from crops like soybeans and corn.

The cattle reviewed by the FDA had genes altered with a technology called CRISPR to have short, slick coats that let them more easily withstand hot weather. Cattle that aren’t stressed by heat might pack on weight more easily, making for more efficient meat production.

The company did not say when home cooks or restaurants might be able to buy the beef, but the FDA said it could reach the market in as early as two years.

Unlike the salmon and pigs, the cattle did not have to go through a yearslong approval process. The FDA said the cattle were exempt from that because their genetic makeup is similar to other existing cattle and the trait can be found naturally in some breeds.

Dr. Steven Solomon, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, said the agency’s review of Recombinetics' cattle took several months. He said there’s no reason meat from the animals or their offspring would need to be labeled differently.

Solomon said a genetically altered animal marketed as having a special advantage — such a higher than normal ability to withstand heat — might need to go through the full approval process.

“This opens up a completely different pathway,” he said, noting the decision could be encouraging for other biotech companies, many of which are small startups.

The gene-edited trait in the Recombinetics cattle can be passed down so semen and embryos from them could be used to produce offspring with the same shorter coats.

The trait will make beef production more sustainable and to improve animal welfare in warmer climates, Recombinetics said in a statement without providing further details.

Greg Jaffe, who specializes in biotechnology at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, said the FDA’s announcement made clear it wasn't exempting all gene-edited animals from the longer approval process.

“They reinforce the idea that this is a case-by-case review,” Jaffe said.

He said the agency should be more transparent about the review process so people know what's in the works. That could lead to better public acceptance and minimize any potential economic disruptions from global trade, since other countries might consider the animals genetically modified foods that need to be labeled, he said.

Jaydee Hanson, of the Center for Food Safety, said the agency should keep track of the animals for several generations to ensure there aren’t any unintended issues.

The genetically modified pig is intended mainly for medical purposes, not meat, according to the company that developed it. The firm recently provided a pig heart that was transplanted into a dying man in an experimental surgery.

The company behind the modified salmon said the fish are being sold to distributors in the Midwest and Northeast.

Alison Van Eenennaam, an animal geneticist at University of California, Davis who has worked with Recombinetics, said requiring all companies to go through the lengthy approval process could end the possibility of commercializing gene-edited animals in the U.S.

For the gene-edited cattle cleared by the FDA, she said it could take about two years for beef from the offspring to reach the market.

Once the semen is used to create embryos, she said gestation would take about nine months and the resulting calves might be slaughtered after about 10 months. She noted the market isn’t limited to the U.S., given the way cattle are bred.

“Let’s face it, bull semen goes all over the world,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590681306227.jpeg" alt="Image from Pixabay&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image from Pixabay&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By CANDICE CHOI, Associated PressNEW YORK (AP) — U.S. regulators on Monday cleared the way for the sale of beef from gene-edited cattle in coming years after the Food and Drug Administration concluded the animals do not raise any safety concerns.The cattle by Recombinetics are the third genetically altered animals given the green light for human consumption in the U.S. after salmon and pigs. Many other foods already are made with genetically modified ingredients from crops like soybeans and corn.The cattle reviewed by the FDA had genes altered with a technology called CRISPR to have short, slick coats that let them more easily withstand hot weather. Cattle that aren’t stressed by heat might pack on weight more easily, making for more efficient meat production.The company did not say when home cooks or restaurants might be able to buy the beef, but the FDA said it could reach the market in as early as two years.Unlike the salmon and pigs, the cattle did not have to go through a yearslong approval process. The FDA said the cattle were exempt from that because their genetic makeup is similar to other existing cattle and the trait can be found naturally in some breeds.Dr. Steven Solomon, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, said the agency’s review of Recombinetics' cattle took several months. He said there’s no reason meat from the animals or their offspring would need to be labeled differently.Solomon said a genetically altered animal marketed as having a special advantage — such a higher than normal ability to withstand heat — might need to go through the full approval process.“This opens up a completely different pathway,” he said, noting the decision could be encouraging for other biotech companies, many of which are small startups.The gene-edited trait in the Recombinetics cattle can be passed down so semen and embryos from them could be used to produce offspring with the same shorter coats.The trait will make beef production more sustainable and to improve animal welfare in warmer climates, Recombinetics said in a statement without providing further details.Greg Jaffe, who specializes in biotechnology at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, said the FDA’s announcement made clear it wasn't exempting all gene-edited animals from the longer approval process.“They reinforce the idea that this is a case-by-case review,” Jaffe said.He said the agency should be more transparent about the review process so people know what's in the works. That could lead to better public acceptance and minimize any potential economic disruptions from global trade, since other countries might consider the animals genetically modified foods that need to be labeled, he said.Jaydee Hanson, of the Center for Food Safety, said the agency should keep track of the animals for several generations to ensure there aren’t any unintended issues.The genetically modified pig is intended mainly for medical purposes, not meat, according to the company that developed it. The firm recently provided a pig heart that was transplanted into a dying man in an experimental surgery.The company behind the modified salmon said the fish are being sold to distributors in the Midwest and Northeast.Alison Van Eenennaam, an animal geneticist at University of California, Davis who has worked with Recombinetics, said requiring all companies to go through the lengthy approval process could end the possibility of commercializing gene-edited animals in the U.S.For the gene-edited cattle cleared by the FDA, she said it could take about two years for beef from the offspring to reach the market.Once the semen is used to create embryos, she said gestation would take about nine months and the resulting calves might be slaughtered after about 10 months. She noted the market isn’t limited to the U.S., given the way cattle are bred.“Let’s face it, bull semen goes all over the world,” she said.

Gene-edited beef cattle get regulatory clearance in US

Russia’s ministry on trade and industry is recommending the country’s fertilizer producers temporarily halt exports. 

Reuters says it’s a sign that sanctions imposed after Russia invaded Ukraine might impact other countries. 

Many major international shipping companies suspended virtually all cargo shipments to and from Russia to comply with sanctions. 

The Russian ministry says, “We have recommended Russian producers temporarily suspend export shipments of Russian fertilizers until carriers resume their work and provide guarantees that Russian fertilizer exports will get fully completed.” 

Russia produces 50 million tons of fertilizers every year, 13 percent of the world’s total. The country is a major exporter of potash, phosphate, and nitrogen-containing fertilizers, all of which are major crop and soil nutrients. 

“Vessels are not coming here,” a source in the Russian fertilizer industry told Reuters. “And there are no containers at all.” Russia has been considering retaliating against Western sanctions but hasn’t officially announced any steps so far.

Russia’s ministry on trade and industry is recommending the country’s fertilizer producers temporarily halt exports. Reuters says it’s a sign that sanctions imposed after Russia invaded Ukraine might impact other countries. Many major international shipping companies suspended virtually all cargo shipments to and from Russia to comply with sanctions. The Russian ministry says, “We have recommended Russian producers temporarily suspend export shipments of Russian fertilizers until carriers resume their work and provide guarantees that Russian fertilizer exports will get fully completed.” Russia produces 50 million tons of fertilizers every year, 13 percent of the world’s total. The country is a major exporter of potash, phosphate, and nitrogen-containing fertilizers, all of which are major crop and soil nutrients. “Vessels are not coming here,” a source in the Russian fertilizer industry told Reuters. “And there are no containers at all.” Russia has been considering retaliating against Western sanctions but hasn’t officially announced any steps so far.

Russian ministry recommends halting fertilizer exports

Soybean and grain sales for overseas delivery dropped in the seven days ending on February 24. 

However, USDA says soybean sales for delivery in the 2022-2023 marketing year beginning on September 1 totaled 1.39 million metric tons, with China buying 1.26 million. 

For the week ending on February 24, soybean sales totaled 857,000 metric tons, a 31 percent drop from the previous week and 34 percent lower than the prior four-week average. 

Exports for the week reached 751,000 metric tons, a 40 percent drop week-to-week. Corn sales dropped to 485,000 metric tons during the week, down 53 percent from the week before and 47 percent from the four-week average. 

Corn exports during the week hit 1.55 million metric tons, down 18 percent week-to-week.&nbsp; Wheat sales dipped 42 percent from the prior week to 300,000 metric tons. That was a 54 percent rise compared to the prior four-week average. Wheat exports dropped 33 percent to 365,000 tons.

Soybean and grain sales for overseas delivery dropped in the seven days ending on February 24. However, USDA says soybean sales for delivery in the 2022-2023 marketing year beginning on September 1 totaled 1.39 million metric tons, with China buying 1.26 million. For the week ending on February 24, soybean sales totaled 857,000 metric tons, a 31 percent drop from the previous week and 34 percent lower than the prior four-week average. Exports for the week reached 751,000 metric tons, a 40 percent drop week-to-week. Corn sales dropped to 485,000 metric tons during the week, down 53 percent from the week before and 47 percent from the four-week average. Corn exports during the week hit 1.55 million metric tons, down 18 percent week-to-week.&nbsp; Wheat sales dipped 42 percent from the prior week to 300,000 metric tons. That was a 54 percent rise compared to the prior four-week average. Wheat exports dropped 33 percent to 365,000 tons.

China buys a large supply of U.S. new crop soybeans

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Council rejected a proposal from Canada regarding U.S. access to its dairy markets. 

The organizations say Global Affairs Canada outlined changes last week to their current scheme for allocating U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dairy tariff-rate-quotas. 

In January, the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced it had won USMCA’s first-ever dispute settlement panel with Canada regarding dairy market access for U.S. farmers. 

“Enough is enough,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF.&nbsp; “U.S. dairy producers are sick and tired of Canada’s game playing on dairy market access.” 

As the first case decided under USMCA, the U.S.-Canada dairy TRQ panel is a test case for whether the USMCA dispute settlement process can provide effective enforcement and deliver genuine compliance with the agreement. 

“Canada is trying to see how little will get demanded from them, so it’s essential that the U.S. insist on real reforms,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC.

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Council rejected a proposal from Canada regarding U.S. access to its dairy markets. The organizations say Global Affairs Canada outlined changes last week to their current scheme for allocating U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dairy tariff-rate-quotas. In January, the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced it had won USMCA’s first-ever dispute settlement panel with Canada regarding dairy market access for U.S. farmers. “Enough is enough,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF.&nbsp; “U.S. dairy producers are sick and tired of Canada’s game playing on dairy market access.” As the first case decided under USMCA, the U.S.-Canada dairy TRQ panel is a test case for whether the USMCA dispute settlement process can provide effective enforcement and deliver genuine compliance with the agreement. “Canada is trying to see how little will get demanded from them, so it’s essential that the U.S. insist on real reforms,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC.

Ag groups reject Canada’s dairy proposal

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service this week removed mandatory mask requirements at federally inspected meat processing facilities. 

As of March 1, 2022, FSIS Notice 34-21 requiring masks was rescinded. FSIS-regulated establishments are no longer subject to suspension or withdrawal of inspection services for failure to require their employees to wear masks when FSIS inspection program personnel are present. 

The action follows Centers for Disease Control guidance changes recommending wearing a well-fitting mask indoors, regardless of vaccination status, only in areas experiencing a high level of COVID-19 and severe disease. 

However, FSIS employees must continue to wear masks at this time as set out in the USDA workplace safety plan. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Beef Processing Committee Chairman Patrick Robinette welcomed the FSIS action. 

Robinette says the updated guidance “will put back into operation several regional processing facilities that were forced to go offline due to the previous guidance.”

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service this week removed mandatory mask requirements at federally inspected meat processing facilities. As of March 1, 2022, FSIS Notice 34-21 requiring masks was rescinded. FSIS-regulated establishments are no longer subject to suspension or withdrawal of inspection services for failure to require their employees to wear masks when FSIS inspection program personnel are present. The action follows Centers for Disease Control guidance changes recommending wearing a well-fitting mask indoors, regardless of vaccination status, only in areas experiencing a high level of COVID-19 and severe disease. However, FSIS employees must continue to wear masks at this time as set out in the USDA workplace safety plan. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Beef Processing Committee Chairman Patrick Robinette welcomed the FSIS action. Robinette says the updated guidance “will put back into operation several regional processing facilities that were forced to go offline due to the previous guidance.”

FSIS removes mask mandate for meat processing facilities

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service this week confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza. 

The virus was found in a non-commercial, backyard poultry flock in Southwest Iowa. The state’s Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says, “We are working with USDA and other partners to implement our plans and protect the health of poultry flocks in Iowa." 

Whether commercial producers or backyard flock owners, all bird owners should practice good biosecurity, which USDA says is the best way to keep livestock healthy. HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease affecting bird populations and can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations. 

Signs of HPAI include a sudden increase in bird deaths, lack of energy or appetite, and decreased egg production. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service this week confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza. The virus was found in a non-commercial, backyard poultry flock in Southwest Iowa. The state’s Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says, “We are working with USDA and other partners to implement our plans and protect the health of poultry flocks in Iowa." Whether commercial producers or backyard flock owners, all bird owners should practice good biosecurity, which USDA says is the best way to keep livestock healthy. HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease affecting bird populations and can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations. Signs of HPAI include a sudden increase in bird deaths, lack of energy or appetite, and decreased egg production. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Iowa confirms Avian Flu in poultry flock

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows irrigation methods vary by crop because of differences in production practices, crop value, water source, and soil characteristics. 

Irrigation application methods can be broadly categorized as either gravity or pressurized systems. 

Pressurized irrigation systems apply water under pressure through pipes or other tubing, while gravity irrigation systems use field slope to advance water across the field surface. 

Rice has the largest share of acres irrigated by gravity systems, which is related to the flooding requirements of most rice production systems in the United States. Peanuts have the largest proportion of acres irrigated by pressurized systems. Pressurized systems are also prevalent among high-value specialty crops, such as vegetables and orchards. 

Pressurized irrigation systems, particularly low-flow micro-irrigation systems, are generally more expensive than gravity irrigation systems, precluding their use among lower value crops. Pressurized systems are also more prominent among crops concentrated in regions more reliant on groundwater.

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows irrigation methods vary by crop because of differences in production practices, crop value, water source, and soil characteristics. Irrigation application methods can be broadly categorized as either gravity or pressurized systems. Pressurized irrigation systems apply water under pressure through pipes or other tubing, while gravity irrigation systems use field slope to advance water across the field surface. Rice has the largest share of acres irrigated by gravity systems, which is related to the flooding requirements of most rice production systems in the United States. Peanuts have the largest proportion of acres irrigated by pressurized systems. Pressurized systems are also prevalent among high-value specialty crops, such as vegetables and orchards. Pressurized irrigation systems, particularly low-flow micro-irrigation systems, are generally more expensive than gravity irrigation systems, precluding their use among lower value crops. Pressurized systems are also more prominent among crops concentrated in regions more reliant on groundwater.

Use of irrigation systems vary by crop

President Joe Biden’s State of the Union transcript included two mentions of the word farm. 

Biden said, “When corporations don’t have to compete, their profits go up, your prices go up, and small businesses and family farmers and ranchers go under,” announcing a crackdown on companies overcharging American businesses and consumers. 

The second, Biden stated a goal to “provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, those on temporary status, farm workers, and essential workers.” The speech included no mention of biofuel, ethanol or agriculture. 

Biofuel is a hot topic for agriculture as the price of gas and oil continue to increase and worries of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are intensifying that. 

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered the Republican response to the speech. While Republicans are not in the White House, she said “We’re doing what we can,” including “fighting to restore America’s energy independence, including biofuels.”

President Joe Biden’s State of the Union transcript included two mentions of the word farm. Biden said, “When corporations don’t have to compete, their profits go up, your prices go up, and small businesses and family farmers and ranchers go under,” announcing a crackdown on companies overcharging American businesses and consumers. The second, Biden stated a goal to “provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, those on temporary status, farm workers, and essential workers.” The speech included no mention of biofuel, ethanol or agriculture. Biofuel is a hot topic for agriculture as the price of gas and oil continue to increase and worries of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are intensifying that. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered the Republican response to the speech. While Republicans are not in the White House, she said “We’re doing what we can,” including “fighting to restore America’s energy independence, including biofuels.”

Biden delivers State of the Union Address

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the uncertainty of the situation in Ukraine underscores the need for more homegrown biofuels to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and improve energy security. 

In an open letter Tuesday ahead of President Biden’s State of the Union Address, Skor highlighted the potential of biofuels to help lessen the impact of high oil and gas prices. 

This week, oil prices spiked to more than $100 a barrel, and gas prices are also increasing. 

In the letter, Skor says, "Increasing access to higher blends of ethanol through E15 year-round can help keep prices down at the pump."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Growth Energy says moving E15 nationwide would generate $12.2 billion in savings for U.S. consumers at the pump each year, and bolster the domestic market supply, driving prices downward.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Skor says homegrown and low-carbon solutions like biofuels can shield American drivers from the continued volatility in the OPEC-controlled, global oil market.&nbsp;

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the uncertainty of the situation in Ukraine underscores the need for more homegrown biofuels to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and improve energy security. In an open letter Tuesday ahead of President Biden’s State of the Union Address, Skor highlighted the potential of biofuels to help lessen the impact of high oil and gas prices. This week, oil prices spiked to more than $100 a barrel, and gas prices are also increasing. In the letter, Skor says, "Increasing access to higher blends of ethanol through E15 year-round can help keep prices down at the pump."&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy says moving E15 nationwide would generate $12.2 billion in savings for U.S. consumers at the pump each year, and bolster the domestic market supply, driving prices downward.&nbsp;&nbsp;Skor says homegrown and low-carbon solutions like biofuels can shield American drivers from the continued volatility in the OPEC-controlled, global oil market.&nbsp;

Growth Energy calls on biofuels to address global energy crisis

Susan Weaver Ford of Kenly, North Carolina, was recognized as the 2022 Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award winner at Farm Journal’s Top Producer Summit in Nashville. 

Sponsored by Pioneer, the Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award honors female producers who are a shining example for their peers. 

The winner is an advocate for agriculture and represents an innovative farming operation. 

Entrants were judged on agricultural advocacy, farm business innovation and industry or community leadership.&nbsp; Applications are received from producers across the country and judged by a panel of industry experts. 

Ford and her father, Ray Weaver, grow tobacco, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and cotton across 2,000 acres, 420 of which are family-owned. 

Top Producer magazine's Sara Schafer says, “She is fine-tuning budgets, marketing grain, negotiating contracts and doing high-level risk management.” Last year she was selected as one of 10 Americans to be a Nuffield International Farming Scholar.

Susan Weaver Ford of Kenly, North Carolina, was recognized as the 2022 Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award winner at Farm Journal’s Top Producer Summit in Nashville. Sponsored by Pioneer, the Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award honors female producers who are a shining example for their peers. The winner is an advocate for agriculture and represents an innovative farming operation. Entrants were judged on agricultural advocacy, farm business innovation and industry or community leadership.&nbsp; Applications are received from producers across the country and judged by a panel of industry experts. Ford and her father, Ray Weaver, grow tobacco, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and cotton across 2,000 acres, 420 of which are family-owned. Top Producer magazine's Sara Schafer says, “She is fine-tuning budgets, marketing grain, negotiating contracts and doing high-level risk management.” Last year she was selected as one of 10 Americans to be a Nuffield International Farming Scholar.

Top producer names Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award Winner

The Renewable Fuels Association presented its 2022 Ethanol Industry Award to the National Corn Growers Association. 

The award was given in recognition of the group’s dedicated and sustained efforts on behalf of the ethanol industry over the past four decades. 

The award is the RFA’s highest recognition and was presented during the recent National Ethanol Conference in New Orleans. 

“RFA and NCGA have worked together for decades on policy, market development, research, and promotional efforts aimed at growing our nation’s ethanol industry,” says RFA boss Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“NCGA CEO Jon Doggett was personally involved in the very early negotiations with RFA, the oil industry, and other Ag groups in an effort that ultimately led to the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.”

 He also said that NCGA has worked together with RFA on countless research and ethanol promotion efforts, such as technical work, market development, exports, and many other initiatives. &nbsp;

The Renewable Fuels Association presented its 2022 Ethanol Industry Award to the National Corn Growers Association. The award was given in recognition of the group’s dedicated and sustained efforts on behalf of the ethanol industry over the past four decades. The award is the RFA’s highest recognition and was presented during the recent National Ethanol Conference in New Orleans. “RFA and NCGA have worked together for decades on policy, market development, research, and promotional efforts aimed at growing our nation’s ethanol industry,” says RFA boss Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;&nbsp;“NCGA CEO Jon Doggett was personally involved in the very early negotiations with RFA, the oil industry, and other Ag groups in an effort that ultimately led to the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.” He also said that NCGA has worked together with RFA on countless research and ethanol promotion efforts, such as technical work, market development, exports, and many other initiatives. &nbsp;

NCGA wins Ethanol Award from the Renewable Fuels Association

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack gave the keynote address last week at the USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. 

The Hagstrom Report says that the secretary called the outlook for U.S. agriculture “bright, strong, and positive” despite the problems around the world. 

When asked about the impact of the battle in Ukraine, Vilsack said it’s too early to make projections about what impacts the war will have on fertilizer and food prices in the U.S. 

He also says the administration will be supportive of state attorneys general analyzing the history of fertilizer pricing. His biggest concern is that companies may be taking advantage of farmers. 

The secretary made his remarks after returning from a trade mission to Dubai, the first mission in two years. Vilsack says ag exports set a record last year, and exports will be even higher this year. He said the Dubai trip is part of an agency effort to diversify exports beyond China.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack gave the keynote address last week at the USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. The Hagstrom Report says that the secretary called the outlook for U.S. agriculture “bright, strong, and positive” despite the problems around the world. When asked about the impact of the battle in Ukraine, Vilsack said it’s too early to make projections about what impacts the war will have on fertilizer and food prices in the U.S. He also says the administration will be supportive of state attorneys general analyzing the history of fertilizer pricing. His biggest concern is that companies may be taking advantage of farmers. The secretary made his remarks after returning from a trade mission to Dubai, the first mission in two years. Vilsack says ag exports set a record last year, and exports will be even higher this year. He said the Dubai trip is part of an agency effort to diversify exports beyond China.

Vilsack says ag outlook is “strong”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine boosted fuel prices last week. For the ninth straight week, U.S. fuel prices increased, with gas claiming 7.5 cents to an average of $3.59 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. 

The national average is up 23.2 cents from a month ago and 87.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel increased 5.5 cents in the last week and stands at $3.98 per gallon, the highest since March 23, 2014. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked high level concern that oil production could eventually be stifled, or even sanctioned, from the world’s second largest oil producer, leading to less supply as demand grows.” 

That comes at a time of year when seasonality issues push gasoline prices up by anywhere from 25 to 75 cents by Memorial Day. De Haan says, “it’s looking like a perfect storm,” adding, there is “little to no relief anytime soon.”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine boosted fuel prices last week. For the ninth straight week, U.S. fuel prices increased, with gas claiming 7.5 cents to an average of $3.59 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 23.2 cents from a month ago and 87.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 5.5 cents in the last week and stands at $3.98 per gallon, the highest since March 23, 2014. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked high level concern that oil production could eventually be stifled, or even sanctioned, from the world’s second largest oil producer, leading to less supply as demand grows.” That comes at a time of year when seasonality issues push gasoline prices up by anywhere from 25 to 75 cents by Memorial Day. De Haan says, “it’s looking like a perfect storm,” adding, there is “little to no relief anytime soon.”

Invasion sparks increasing fuel, oil prices

The United Soybean Board released results of a new survey highlighting consumer perceptions of U.S. soybeans, soybean farmers, and the American food supply chain. 

The survey shows consumer support of domestic agriculture continues to grow stronger, with 78 percent of consumers saying it’s important to buy U.S.-grown food, including soybeans. The 78 percent is an eight-percent increase from the last survey in December 2020. Other highlights from the study include U.S. farmers being the most trusted source when it comes to food safety, with 83 percent of consumers ranking them number one among members of the supply chain. 

The vast majority of consumers have a very/somewhat positive view of U.S. farmers who grow crops, including soybeans. Soy is seen as healthy by more than half of consumers, with 60 percent saying that soy-based food is somewhat/very healthy. 72 percent of respondents are more positive about soy because of its sustainability. &nbsp;

The United Soybean Board released results of a new survey highlighting consumer perceptions of U.S. soybeans, soybean farmers, and the American food supply chain. The survey shows consumer support of domestic agriculture continues to grow stronger, with 78 percent of consumers saying it’s important to buy U.S.-grown food, including soybeans. The 78 percent is an eight-percent increase from the last survey in December 2020. Other highlights from the study include U.S. farmers being the most trusted source when it comes to food safety, with 83 percent of consumers ranking them number one among members of the supply chain. The vast majority of consumers have a very/somewhat positive view of U.S. farmers who grow crops, including soybeans. Soy is seen as healthy by more than half of consumers, with 60 percent saying that soy-based food is somewhat/very healthy. 72 percent of respondents are more positive about soy because of its sustainability. &nbsp;

Consumers want food made from American crops

International grain buyers are looking for different places to buy wheat and corn as a Russian invasion cut off Ukrainian supplies. 

Reuters says European Union producers like Romania and France are being used to cover some nearby shipments. The conflict is rattling international grain markets. European wheat futures hit record highs last week as stalled shipments from Ukraine and Russia are likely. Those two countries and current adversaries account for nearly a third of world wheat exports and almost a fifth of global corn exports.

 The assault from Moscow led Ukraine to close its ports last week. Romania is a major grain supplier that exports through the Black Sea but outside the conflict zone, so buyers are looking there for backup purchases. Ukraine is a key wheat exporter to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean locations like Egypt, Turkey, Italy, and African countries. 

Ukraine’s corn customers include China, Spain, Iran, and South Korea.

International grain buyers are looking for different places to buy wheat and corn as a Russian invasion cut off Ukrainian supplies. Reuters says European Union producers like Romania and France are being used to cover some nearby shipments. The conflict is rattling international grain markets. European wheat futures hit record highs last week as stalled shipments from Ukraine and Russia are likely. Those two countries and current adversaries account for nearly a third of world wheat exports and almost a fifth of global corn exports. The assault from Moscow led Ukraine to close its ports last week. Romania is a major grain supplier that exports through the Black Sea but outside the conflict zone, so buyers are looking there for backup purchases. Ukraine is a key wheat exporter to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean locations like Egypt, Turkey, Italy, and African countries. Ukraine’s corn customers include China, Spain, Iran, and South Korea.