The House Agriculture Committee heard from farm groups on challenges to the supply chain during a hearing Wednesday.&nbsp; The American Soybean Association and National Biodiesel Board also expressed concerns over labor and shipping, but say there is plenty of soy oil supplies for the food sector.

ASA and NBB say food industry groups have waged claims that there’s a crunch on the supply of soy oil available when soy is crushed, and that foodservice cannot get enough edible oil for cooking because, those groups say, oil is being diverted to biodiesel and a growing renewable diesel market. 

ASA President Kevin Scott says, “There is currently not a soy oil supply shortage, nor is one envisioned by year-end, but there are in fact very real supply chain challenges impacting U.S. agriculture.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those concerns include labor, barge shipments, ports and shipping containers, trucking and rail freight, fertilizer, chemical inputs, energy, equipment and parts, and water availability.

The House Agriculture Committee heard from farm groups on challenges to the supply chain during a hearing Wednesday.&nbsp; The American Soybean Association and National Biodiesel Board also expressed concerns over labor and shipping, but say there is plenty of soy oil supplies for the food sector.ASA and NBB say food industry groups have waged claims that there’s a crunch on the supply of soy oil available when soy is crushed, and that foodservice cannot get enough edible oil for cooking because, those groups say, oil is being diverted to biodiesel and a growing renewable diesel market. ASA President Kevin Scott says, “There is currently not a soy oil supply shortage, nor is one envisioned by year-end, but there are in fact very real supply chain challenges impacting U.S. agriculture.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Those concerns include labor, barge shipments, ports and shipping containers, trucking and rail freight, fertilizer, chemical inputs, energy, equipment and parts, and water availability.

ASA and NBB express concerns over supply chain

MOLINE, IL.&nbsp; (AP) —Deere executives said Wednesday that the company wouldn’t return to the bargaining table with striking workers because it wouldn’t offer a better contract than one they rejected that included immediate 10% raises.

Marc Howze, the chief administrative officer of Deere &amp; Co., said the deal the United Auto Workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-strikes-united-auto-workers-7124f0d5f729c0a722e62c87c94fc14a">union rejected</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday represented the most it could offer and still keep its costs competitive.

Howze declined to discuss how much the ongoing strike is costing Deere, which will release its next earnings report later this month. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-illinois-moline-united-auto-workers-7e85b3d6aa34955f7c0be633e201c87f">disputed contract</a>&nbsp;would cover more than 10,000 Deere workers at 12 facilities in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas, who make the company’s iconic John Deere green tractors and other equipment.

The company plans to reach out to employees directly now to stress the virtues of its offer while it tries to keep its plants running with salaried employees and other workers to meet customer commitments. Other Deere plants globally are also working to pick up the slack.

“We want to make sure they understand the value of the agreement, to make sure they understand that there is nothing to be gained by continuing to hold out,” Howze said. “To some degree, because we were able to come to a resolution as quickly as we were, I think there’s some folks who believe there must be some more available.”

In addition to the initial raises, this week’s offer included 5% raises in the third and fifth years of the six-year deal, and it would have provided an $8,500 ratification bonus, preserved a pension option for new employees, made workers eligible for health insurance sooner and maintained their no-premium health insurance coverage.

UAW spokesman Brian Rothenberg said union leaders were meeting to discuss their next moves. With a majority of workers voting against the latest offer, union officials face demands to deliver more but that might be difficult given the Moline, Illinois-based company’s stance. And pressure to reach a settlement will mount the longer workers go without pay.

The vote Tuesday was much closer than when 90% of the workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-united-auto-workers-moline-strikes-447c2d911c1314c247011522e30f9bd2">rejected the company’s first offer</a>&nbsp;last month, but 55% of the workers still rejected the latest offer. Workers have been encouraged to seek more now because of the current worker shortages and Deere’s strong profits.

“It seems general membership feels emboldened by this current political moment of labor power. They’re pushing things further than the union leadership apparently wants to go,” said Victor Chen, a sociologist at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies labor. “It’s a gamble, but the economic wind is against their backs, given widespread supply chain problems and the current worker shortage.”

Deere officials, who have predicted that the company will report record profits of between $5.7 billion and $5.9 billion this fiscal year, don’t want to miss out on sales to farmers who are ready to buy thanks to strong crop prices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that farmers’ net income will increase by nearly 20% this year, to $113 billion.

Observers say the rejection of the deal shows pent-up anger among Deere workers over how much of its profits the company has been willing to share with workers.

“Although the proposed contract was a significant improvement over the previous offer, the Deere workers evidently felt that the company could afford more,” Fordham University sociologist Chris Rhomberg said. “For decades, wages across the economy have lagged behind productivity growth, and workers may be tired of seeing the gains from their efforts go predominantly to corporations making record-breaking earnings.”

Now the challenge for the UAW and Deere will be finding a way to resolve their differences in a way that workers will accept, said Todd Vachon, a former member of a carpenter’s union who now teaches about labor relations at Rutgers University.

“There is always the risk of overplaying one’s hand — on both sides, really,” Vachon said. “It appears the final mile will likely involve some changes to work rules and working conditions in addition to just wage increases.”

The longer the strike continues, the more painful it will become for everyone, Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said.

“During the dragging on, both sides lose,” Goss said. “Workers are looking at lost income. John Deere is looking at lost sales. So they both have sort of guns pointing at each other’s heads, economically speaking.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634596496067.png" alt="The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered only 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV" />
 <figcaption>The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered only 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MOLINE, IL.&nbsp; (AP) —Deere executives said Wednesday that the company wouldn’t return to the bargaining table with striking workers because it wouldn’t offer a better contract than one they rejected that included immediate 10% raises.Marc Howze, the chief administrative officer of Deere &amp; Co., said the deal the United Auto Workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-strikes-united-auto-workers-7124f0d5f729c0a722e62c87c94fc14a">union rejected</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday represented the most it could offer and still keep its costs competitive.Howze declined to discuss how much the ongoing strike is costing Deere, which will release its next earnings report later this month. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-illinois-moline-united-auto-workers-7e85b3d6aa34955f7c0be633e201c87f">disputed contract</a>&nbsp;would cover more than 10,000 Deere workers at 12 facilities in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas, who make the company’s iconic John Deere green tractors and other equipment.The company plans to reach out to employees directly now to stress the virtues of its offer while it tries to keep its plants running with salaried employees and other workers to meet customer commitments. Other Deere plants globally are also working to pick up the slack.“We want to make sure they understand the value of the agreement, to make sure they understand that there is nothing to be gained by continuing to hold out,” Howze said. “To some degree, because we were able to come to a resolution as quickly as we were, I think there’s some folks who believe there must be some more available.”In addition to the initial raises, this week’s offer included 5% raises in the third and fifth years of the six-year deal, and it would have provided an $8,500 ratification bonus, preserved a pension option for new employees, made workers eligible for health insurance sooner and maintained their no-premium health insurance coverage.UAW spokesman Brian Rothenberg said union leaders were meeting to discuss their next moves. With a majority of workers voting against the latest offer, union officials face demands to deliver more but that might be difficult given the Moline, Illinois-based company’s stance. And pressure to reach a settlement will mount the longer workers go without pay.The vote Tuesday was much closer than when 90% of the workers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-united-auto-workers-moline-strikes-447c2d911c1314c247011522e30f9bd2">rejected the company’s first offer</a>&nbsp;last month, but 55% of the workers still rejected the latest offer. Workers have been encouraged to seek more now because of the current worker shortages and Deere’s strong profits.“It seems general membership feels emboldened by this current political moment of labor power. They’re pushing things further than the union leadership apparently wants to go,” said Victor Chen, a sociologist at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies labor. “It’s a gamble, but the economic wind is against their backs, given widespread supply chain problems and the current worker shortage.”ADVERTISEMENTDeere officials, who have predicted that the company will report record profits of between $5.7 billion and $5.9 billion this fiscal year, don’t want to miss out on sales to farmers who are ready to buy thanks to strong crop prices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that farmers’ net income will increase by nearly 20% this year, to $113 billion.Observers say the rejection of the deal shows pent-up anger among Deere workers over how much of its profits the company has been willing to share with workers.“Although the proposed contract was a significant improvement over the previous offer, the Deere workers evidently felt that the company could afford more,” Fordham University sociologist Chris Rhomberg said. “For decades, wages across the economy have lagged behind productivity growth, and workers may be tired of seeing the gains from their efforts go predominantly to corporations making record-breaking earnings.”Now the challenge for the UAW and Deere will be finding a way to resolve their differences in a way that workers will accept, said Todd Vachon, a former member of a carpenter’s union who now teaches about labor relations at Rutgers University.“There is always the risk of overplaying one’s hand — on both sides, really,” Vachon said. “It appears the final mile will likely involve some changes to work rules and working conditions in addition to just wage increases.”The longer the strike continues, the more painful it will become for everyone, Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said.“During the dragging on, both sides lose,” Goss said. “Workers are looking at lost income. John Deere is looking at lost sales. So they both have sort of guns pointing at each other’s heads, economically speaking.”

Deere warns striking workers as walkout moves into 4th week

Growth Energy submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency a notice of intent to sue regarding its failure to timely fulfill the agency’s statutory obligation. 

The notice sent Tuesday focuses on EPA’s delay in issuing the 2022 Renewable Volume Obligation under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The RVOs for 2022 are due by November 30, 2021, an annual deadline set by Congress in the RFS. 

However, with less than a month to go, EPA has not issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to establish the obligations. The Growth Energy notice gives EPA 60 days to issue the 2022 RVO before risking a lawsuit in federal court. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “It is critical for EPA to issue these RVOs as soon as possible.” Growth Energy claims failure to issue RVOs on time undermines the RFS by eliminating prospective, market-forcing blending obligations, and by creating uncertainty in the market for obligated parties and renewable fuels producers.

Growth Energy submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency a notice of intent to sue regarding its failure to timely fulfill the agency’s statutory obligation. The notice sent Tuesday focuses on EPA’s delay in issuing the 2022 Renewable Volume Obligation under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The RVOs for 2022 are due by November 30, 2021, an annual deadline set by Congress in the RFS. However, with less than a month to go, EPA has not issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to establish the obligations. The Growth Energy notice gives EPA 60 days to issue the 2022 RVO before risking a lawsuit in federal court. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “It is critical for EPA to issue these RVOs as soon as possible.” Growth Energy claims failure to issue RVOs on time undermines the RFS by eliminating prospective, market-forcing blending obligations, and by creating uncertainty in the market for obligated parties and renewable fuels producers.

Growth Energy submits notice of intent to sue EPA over biofuel delays

U.S. goods exports to China surged last year by $18.5 billion, almost 18 percent over 2019. The surge follows near-decade lows in U.S.-China trade in 2019 and the conclusion of the U.S.-China Phase One trade agreement in January 2020, according to a study released Tuesday by the U.S.-China Business Council. 

The study found 64 percent of U.S. congressional districts exported more goods to China in 2020 compared to the year prior, and 72 districts increased their exports by more than $100 million. 

The increase was particularly sharp in the farming communities of the Midwest, oil-exporting regions in Texas and Louisiana, and Oregon’s semiconductor hub. 

When it comes to services exports to China, the data for which lag a year behind, most districts saw lower numbers in 2019 than they had seen in 2018. The U.S.-China Business Council is a non-partisan trade association representing more than 260 US companies that do business with China from a wide range of industries.

U.S. goods exports to China surged last year by $18.5 billion, almost 18 percent over 2019. The surge follows near-decade lows in U.S.-China trade in 2019 and the conclusion of the U.S.-China Phase One trade agreement in January 2020, according to a study released Tuesday by the U.S.-China Business Council. The study found 64 percent of U.S. congressional districts exported more goods to China in 2020 compared to the year prior, and 72 districts increased their exports by more than $100 million. The increase was particularly sharp in the farming communities of the Midwest, oil-exporting regions in Texas and Louisiana, and Oregon’s semiconductor hub. When it comes to services exports to China, the data for which lag a year behind, most districts saw lower numbers in 2019 than they had seen in 2018. The U.S.-China Business Council is a non-partisan trade association representing more than 260 US companies that do business with China from a wide range of industries.

Most US congressional districts’ exports to China bounced back in 2020

Agricultural technology and data firm Barchart released its final 2021 U.S. corn and soybean production estimates this week. The latest report indicates a slight increase in U.S. crop production and yield for corn and soybean, while Canadian production forecasts remain relatively unchanged over the past month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barchart’s U.S. corn production forecast is 15.4 billion bushels, compared to the Department of Agriculture forecast of 15.0 billion bushels.&nbsp;&nbsp;The average corn yield is pegged at 182.2 bushels an acre, compared to USDA's 176.5. 

Soybean production, projected at 4.5 billion bushels, is slightly higher than USDA's 4.4 billion bushels.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barchart predicts average soybean yield at 51.4 bushels an acre, compared to USDA’s 51.5. 

Meanwhile, the report predicts Canadian spring wheat production at 746.4 million bushels, with an average yield of 46.3 bushels per acre. Finally, Canadian soybean production is estimated to be 223.1 million bushels, with an average yield of 42.2 bushels per acre.

Agricultural technology and data firm Barchart released its final 2021 U.S. corn and soybean production estimates this week. The latest report indicates a slight increase in U.S. crop production and yield for corn and soybean, while Canadian production forecasts remain relatively unchanged over the past month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barchart’s U.S. corn production forecast is 15.4 billion bushels, compared to the Department of Agriculture forecast of 15.0 billion bushels.&nbsp;&nbsp;The average corn yield is pegged at 182.2 bushels an acre, compared to USDA's 176.5. Soybean production, projected at 4.5 billion bushels, is slightly higher than USDA's 4.4 billion bushels.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barchart predicts average soybean yield at 51.4 bushels an acre, compared to USDA’s 51.5. Meanwhile, the report predicts Canadian spring wheat production at 746.4 million bushels, with an average yield of 46.3 bushels per acre. Finally, Canadian soybean production is estimated to be 223.1 million bushels, with an average yield of 42.2 bushels per acre.

Barchart forecasts slight production increase for US corn and soybeans

MOLINE, IL (AP) —Most workers at Deere &amp; Co. rejected a contract offer Tuesday that would have given them 10% raises and decided to remain on strike in the hopes of securing a better deal.

The raises in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-illinois-moline-united-auto-workers-7e85b3d6aa34955f7c0be633e201c87f">new agreement</a>&nbsp;reached over the weekend were twice as big as the ones in the original offer United Auto Workers union members rejected last month, but those raises and improved benefits weren’t enough to end the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-united-auto-workers-moline-strikes-447c2d911c1314c247011522e30f9bd2">strike that began</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 14. The new agreement also would have provided an $8,500 ratification bonus, preserved a pension option for new employees, made workers eligible for health insurance sooner and maintained their no-premium health insurance coverage.

The disputed contract covers more than 10,000 Deere workers at 12 facilities in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas. A smaller group of about 100 workers at two Deere facilities in Colorado and Georgia voted to accept an identical deal.

The union said 55% of its members at the 12 main plants voted against this latest contract offer Tuesday.

Last month, 90% of union members also rejected a proposed contract that included immediate 5% raises for some workers and 6% for others, and 3% raises in 2023 and 2025.

Deere officials said they were disappointed the agreement was voted down.

“Through the agreements reached with the UAW, John Deere would have invested an additional $3.5 billion in our employees, and by extension, our communities, to significantly enhance wages and benefits that were already the best and most comprehensive in our industries,” said Marc A. Howze, Deere’s chief administrative officer. “This investment was the right one for Deere, our employees, and everyone we serve together.”

Tuesday’s vote means that the first major strike since 1986 will continue at the maker of agriculture and construction equipment. Currently, many companies are dealing with worker shortages, making workers feel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-4895e84ab6ed4bb61e9cb8d6c0bcfad5">emboldened&nbsp;</a>to demand more.

Forklift operator Irving Griffin, who has been with Deere for 11 years, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/business/2021/11/02/john-deere-strikers-uaw-told-nation-watching-afl-cio-president-liz-shuler/6180383001/" target="_blank">the Des Moines Register</a>&nbsp;Monday that he planned to vote against the contract because he believed the company can offer even more.

Griffin said he thought workers should hold out for a better offer even though workers are receiving only $275 a week from the union while they’re on strike.

“Now is the best time to strike and take a stand for what we’re really worth,” he said to the newspaper.

Sales have been strong at the Moline, Illinois-based company this year as the economy continued to recover from the pandemic. Deere has predicted it will report record profits this year between $5.7 billion and $5.9 billion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634596496067.png" alt="The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV" />
 <figcaption>The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MOLINE, IL (AP) —Most workers at Deere &amp; Co. rejected a contract offer Tuesday that would have given them 10% raises and decided to remain on strike in the hopes of securing a better deal.The raises in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-illinois-moline-united-auto-workers-7e85b3d6aa34955f7c0be633e201c87f">new agreement</a>&nbsp;reached over the weekend were twice as big as the ones in the original offer United Auto Workers union members rejected last month, but those raises and improved benefits weren’t enough to end the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-united-auto-workers-moline-strikes-447c2d911c1314c247011522e30f9bd2">strike that began</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 14. The new agreement also would have provided an $8,500 ratification bonus, preserved a pension option for new employees, made workers eligible for health insurance sooner and maintained their no-premium health insurance coverage.The disputed contract covers more than 10,000 Deere workers at 12 facilities in Iowa, Illinois and Kansas. A smaller group of about 100 workers at two Deere facilities in Colorado and Georgia voted to accept an identical deal.The union said 55% of its members at the 12 main plants voted against this latest contract offer Tuesday.Last month, 90% of union members also rejected a proposed contract that included immediate 5% raises for some workers and 6% for others, and 3% raises in 2023 and 2025.Deere officials said they were disappointed the agreement was voted down.“Through the agreements reached with the UAW, John Deere would have invested an additional $3.5 billion in our employees, and by extension, our communities, to significantly enhance wages and benefits that were already the best and most comprehensive in our industries,” said Marc A. Howze, Deere’s chief administrative officer. “This investment was the right one for Deere, our employees, and everyone we serve together.”Tuesday’s vote means that the first major strike since 1986 will continue at the maker of agriculture and construction equipment. Currently, many companies are dealing with worker shortages, making workers feel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-4895e84ab6ed4bb61e9cb8d6c0bcfad5">emboldened&nbsp;</a>to demand more.Forklift operator Irving Griffin, who has been with Deere for 11 years, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/money/business/2021/11/02/john-deere-strikers-uaw-told-nation-watching-afl-cio-president-liz-shuler/6180383001/" target="_blank">the Des Moines Register</a>&nbsp;Monday that he planned to vote against the contract because he believed the company can offer even more.Griffin said he thought workers should hold out for a better offer even though workers are receiving only $275 a week from the union while they’re on strike.“Now is the best time to strike and take a stand for what we’re really worth,” he said to the newspaper.Sales have been strong at the Moline, Illinois-based company this year as the economy continued to recover from the pandemic. Deere has predicted it will report record profits this year between $5.7 billion and $5.9 billion.

Deere employees reject contract offer, will stay on strike

Remembering to defrost the turkey might not be the only challenge families face as they try to get that perennial centerpiece onto the Thanksgiving table this year. 

As of August 31, 2021, inventories of frozen whole turkeys and turkey parts were 24 percent lower than three-year average volumes, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Stocks of frozen turkey meat typically follow a seasonal pattern, building throughout the year until the fall, when retailers prepare to meet holiday demand. 

In 2021, the seasonal build-up was less pronounced than usual, and stock volumes appear to have peaked before starting an earlier-than-normal decline. At the end of August 2021, 428.1 million pounds of turkey meat were in cold storage, a 19-percent decrease from the same month last year, and a decline of about seven million pounds from the end of July 2021. Stocks are lower partly because production of turkeys is lower than average this year.

Remembering to defrost the turkey might not be the only challenge families face as they try to get that perennial centerpiece onto the Thanksgiving table this year. As of August 31, 2021, inventories of frozen whole turkeys and turkey parts were 24 percent lower than three-year average volumes, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Stocks of frozen turkey meat typically follow a seasonal pattern, building throughout the year until the fall, when retailers prepare to meet holiday demand. In 2021, the seasonal build-up was less pronounced than usual, and stock volumes appear to have peaked before starting an earlier-than-normal decline. At the end of August 2021, 428.1 million pounds of turkey meat were in cold storage, a 19-percent decrease from the same month last year, and a decline of about seven million pounds from the end of July 2021. Stocks are lower partly because production of turkeys is lower than average this year.

Frozen turkey inventories 24% below 3-year average

Deere &amp; Co and United Auto Workers International reached a tentative new contract. 

The agreement could lead to the end of a worker strike. The deal was announced over the weekend, but needs to be approved by UAW members first. Chuck Browning, UAW Vice President and Director of the Agricultural Implement Department, says the agreement contains enhanced economic gains and provides the highest quality healthcare benefits in the industry.&nbsp; Browning adds, "The negotiators focused on improving the areas of concern identified by our members during our last ratification process." 

The UAW will not release details of the tentative agreement until members at all John Deere locations have an opportunity to meet and review the terms of their proposed contract. It's unclear when the vote will be completed, and the more than 10,000 Deere employees will remain on strike until the vote is concluded. UAW members overwhelmingly rejected the first tentative agreement announced last month.

Deere &amp; Co and United Auto Workers International reached a tentative new contract. The agreement could lead to the end of a worker strike. The deal was announced over the weekend, but needs to be approved by UAW members first. Chuck Browning, UAW Vice President and Director of the Agricultural Implement Department, says the agreement contains enhanced economic gains and provides the highest quality healthcare benefits in the industry.&nbsp; Browning adds, "The negotiators focused on improving the areas of concern identified by our members during our last ratification process." The UAW will not release details of the tentative agreement until members at all John Deere locations have an opportunity to meet and review the terms of their proposed contract. It's unclear when the vote will be completed, and the more than 10,000 Deere employees will remain on strike until the vote is concluded. UAW members overwhelmingly rejected the first tentative agreement announced last month.

Deere, UAW, reach tentative agreement

The Department of Agriculture is in the process of issuing $1.8 billion in payments to agricultural producers. The funds are for farmers enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2020 crop year. 

The payments provide support to help mitigate fluctuations in either revenue or prices for certain crops. These two USDA safety-net programs help producers of certain crops after facing the impacts of COVID-19 and other challenges.&nbsp; FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “these programs provide stability when markets are volatile, making a big difference in the lives of farm families across the country.” 

Additionally, USDA's Farm Service Agency encourages producers to contact their local USDA Service Centers to make or change elections and enroll for 2022 ARC or PLC. The election and enrollment period runs through March 15, 2022. If an election is not submitted by the deadline, the election remains the same as the 2021 election.

The Department of Agriculture is in the process of issuing $1.8 billion in payments to agricultural producers. The funds are for farmers enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2020 crop year. The payments provide support to help mitigate fluctuations in either revenue or prices for certain crops. These two USDA safety-net programs help producers of certain crops after facing the impacts of COVID-19 and other challenges.&nbsp; FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “these programs provide stability when markets are volatile, making a big difference in the lives of farm families across the country.” Additionally, USDA's Farm Service Agency encourages producers to contact their local USDA Service Centers to make or change elections and enroll for 2022 ARC or PLC. The election and enrollment period runs through March 15, 2022. If an election is not submitted by the deadline, the election remains the same as the 2021 election.

USDA provides $1.8 Billion to offset market fluctuations

The House Agriculture Committee will hold a hearing on supply chain issues on Wednesday, November 3. The hearing, titled “The Immediate Challenges to our Nation’s Food Supply Chain,” will address the wide-ranging supply disruptions in the U.S. food and agricultural sectors. 

The American Soybean Association led the effort for members of the Ag CEO Council to highlight agricultural supply chain issues to the administration. 

The council submitted a letter compiled by ASA staff and signed on by ASA and 16 other ag groups that was sent to the Department of Transportation, which has coordinated this effort on behalf of the White House’s Supply Chain Task Force. 

The correspondence outlines the most problematic areas for the ag industry, including transportation costs, labor availability, the global fertilizer market, and more. 

The letter says, “The supply chains that are critical for inputs and sales of goods face multiple and simultaneous challenges, leading to higher prices for inputs, lower prices for outputs, and in some cases, the inability to purchase goods or services regardless of price.” 

The Ag CEOs say the biggest challenges for the supply chain include labor shortages, congestion in trucking, rail freight, and the barges that haven’t recovered from Hurricane Ida shutdowns.

The House Agriculture Committee will hold a hearing on supply chain issues on Wednesday, November 3. The hearing, titled “The Immediate Challenges to our Nation’s Food Supply Chain,” will address the wide-ranging supply disruptions in the U.S. food and agricultural sectors. The American Soybean Association led the effort for members of the Ag CEO Council to highlight agricultural supply chain issues to the administration. The council submitted a letter compiled by ASA staff and signed on by ASA and 16 other ag groups that was sent to the Department of Transportation, which has coordinated this effort on behalf of the White House’s Supply Chain Task Force. The correspondence outlines the most problematic areas for the ag industry, including transportation costs, labor availability, the global fertilizer market, and more. The letter says, “The supply chains that are critical for inputs and sales of goods face multiple and simultaneous challenges, leading to higher prices for inputs, lower prices for outputs, and in some cases, the inability to purchase goods or services regardless of price.” The Ag CEOs say the biggest challenges for the supply chain include labor shortages, congestion in trucking, rail freight, and the barges that haven’t recovered from Hurricane Ida shutdowns.

House Ag Committee hearing on supply chain disruptions

After a COVID-19 slowdown in fuel demand, global energy prices have hit seven-year highs, and gasoline consumption is improving. Reuters says that means surging profit margins for ethanol producers and output levels at near-record highs. 

However, higher production without a corresponding increase in demand could mean growing stockpiles of the fuel. While that hasn’t been the case so far, an increase in lagging exports could bring balance to any extended output increases. 

Reuters says about 10 percent of all U.S. ethanol output gets exported every year, but trade has recently been a sore spot for ethanol. Shipments over the first eight months of 2021 totaled 796 million gallons, a 10 percent reduction from last year and the lowest for the period in five years. 

Two of the top customers for U.S. ethanol, Brazil and China, have been much less active recently. U.S. ethanol imports in Brazil grew more expensive than locally-produced ethanol because the free tariff-rate quota ended late in 2020. China was also expected to become a bigger importer of U.S. ethanol but hasn’t consistently imported larger amounts of the biofuel.

After a COVID-19 slowdown in fuel demand, global energy prices have hit seven-year highs, and gasoline consumption is improving. Reuters says that means surging profit margins for ethanol producers and output levels at near-record highs. However, higher production without a corresponding increase in demand could mean growing stockpiles of the fuel. While that hasn’t been the case so far, an increase in lagging exports could bring balance to any extended output increases. Reuters says about 10 percent of all U.S. ethanol output gets exported every year, but trade has recently been a sore spot for ethanol. Shipments over the first eight months of 2021 totaled 796 million gallons, a 10 percent reduction from last year and the lowest for the period in five years. Two of the top customers for U.S. ethanol, Brazil and China, have been much less active recently. U.S. ethanol imports in Brazil grew more expensive than locally-produced ethanol because the free tariff-rate quota ended late in 2020. China was also expected to become a bigger importer of U.S. ethanol but hasn’t consistently imported larger amounts of the biofuel.

Higher ethanol production could use more exports

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai spoke during a recent meeting of the National Chicken Council and discussed the relationship between the U.S. and China. 

She says her recent interactions with China were intended to bring down the temperature of a trading relationship that’s become heated in recent months. Tai describes the relationship between the two largest economies in the world as “a pile of dry tinder.” 

She also says that any potential misunderstanding between the countries is likely to spark a giant fire that could have drastic effects on both nations and the world’s economy. U.S. News Dot Com says Tai recently took part in a phone call with the Chinese Vice Premier to talk about China’s failure to live up to the Phase 1 trade agreement with the U.S reached under former President Trump. 

U.S. officials looked at the phone call as a test of the bilateral relationship between the nations, and Chinese officials used the call to press Tai to eliminate tariffs in place on imported goods from the Asian nation. “China has a huge market and population, and they all need to be fed,” Tai says. “China needs ag imports, and that is something we can supply.”

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai spoke during a recent meeting of the National Chicken Council and discussed the relationship between the U.S. and China. She says her recent interactions with China were intended to bring down the temperature of a trading relationship that’s become heated in recent months. Tai describes the relationship between the two largest economies in the world as “a pile of dry tinder.” She also says that any potential misunderstanding between the countries is likely to spark a giant fire that could have drastic effects on both nations and the world’s economy. U.S. News Dot Com says Tai recently took part in a phone call with the Chinese Vice Premier to talk about China’s failure to live up to the Phase 1 trade agreement with the U.S reached under former President Trump. U.S. officials looked at the phone call as a test of the bilateral relationship between the nations, and Chinese officials used the call to press Tai to eliminate tariffs in place on imported goods from the Asian nation. “China has a huge market and population, and they all need to be fed,” Tai says. “China needs ag imports, and that is something we can supply.”

Tai: Reduce tensions between U.S. and China

MOLINE, Ill. (AP) — Union workers at Deere &amp; Co. would get wage increases of 10% in the first year and 5% each in the third and fifth years under a tentative contract reached between the farm-equipment maker and the United Auto Workers union.

The workers would get 3% lump sums in the second, fourth and sixth years of the deal. They would also get a ratification bonus of $8,500 and no changes in the cost of their health insurance, according to a summary of the agreement posted Sunday on the union website.

The company and the UAW reached a tentative agreement Saturday that would cover more than 10,000 workers at 12 Deere locations in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/iowa">Iowa</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/illinois">Illinois</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>. However, a strike that began Oct. 14 will continue while workers review the terms of the deal ahead of a ratification vote.

Union members previously rejected a proposed contract that included immediate 5% raises for some workers and 6% for others, and 3% raises in 2023 and 2025.

The Moline, Illinois-based company reported $4.7 billion in net income for the first nine months of its fiscal year, more than double the $2 billion of the same period a year earlier.

A labor shortage affecting many industries also gave workers more leverage to demand better pay and benefits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634596496067.png" alt="The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV" />
 <figcaption>The strike began Oct. 14 after union members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract that would have delivered 5% raises to some workers and 6% raises to others depending on their positions in the factory.-Photo courtesy WQAD TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MOLINE, Ill. (AP) — Union workers at Deere &amp; Co. would get wage increases of 10% in the first year and 5% each in the third and fifth years under a tentative contract reached between the farm-equipment maker and the United Auto Workers union.The workers would get 3% lump sums in the second, fourth and sixth years of the deal. They would also get a ratification bonus of $8,500 and no changes in the cost of their health insurance, according to a summary of the agreement posted Sunday on the union website.The company and the UAW reached a tentative agreement Saturday that would cover more than 10,000 workers at 12 Deere locations in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/iowa">Iowa</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/illinois">Illinois</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>. However, a strike that began Oct. 14 will continue while workers review the terms of the deal ahead of a ratification vote.Union members previously rejected a proposed contract that included immediate 5% raises for some workers and 6% for others, and 3% raises in 2023 and 2025.The Moline, Illinois-based company reported $4.7 billion in net income for the first nine months of its fiscal year, more than double the $2 billion of the same period a year earlier.A labor shortage affecting many industries also gave workers more leverage to demand better pay and benefits.

Deere workers would get immediate 10% raises under new offer

As farmers start to think about next year's crop, the Center for Rural Affairs has released a new resource guide to inform producers who grow small grains about crop insurance options. 

Many farmers are familiar with their options for corn and soybeans, but fewer are familiar with their options for crops such as wheat, oats, barley, and rye. 

The reasons some Midwest and Great Plains farmers opt to grow small grains range from conservation benefits to the requirements of organic certification to local markets. 

However, while small grains do have benefits on the landscape, they come with associated risks. The guide covers the availability of established Multi-Peril policies for small grains, what to do if there is no available policy in your county, and other topics. 

Information included will be helpful for both organic and conventional producers. To view “From Seed to Secured: Crop Insurance for Small Grains,” visit cfra.org.

As farmers start to think about next year's crop, the Center for Rural Affairs has released a new resource guide to inform producers who grow small grains about crop insurance options. Many farmers are familiar with their options for corn and soybeans, but fewer are familiar with their options for crops such as wheat, oats, barley, and rye. The reasons some Midwest and Great Plains farmers opt to grow small grains range from conservation benefits to the requirements of organic certification to local markets. However, while small grains do have benefits on the landscape, they come with associated risks. The guide covers the availability of established Multi-Peril policies for small grains, what to do if there is no available policy in your county, and other topics. Information included will be helpful for both organic and conventional producers. To view “From Seed to Secured: Crop Insurance for Small Grains,” visit cfra.org.

New guide outlines crop insurance options for small grains

U.S. and Mexican agriculture delegates met this week during the 30th annual meeting of the Tri-National Agricultural Accord. The officials discussed concerns regarding recent decisions by Mexico’s federal government to impose arbitrary prohibitions on agricultural biotechnology and certain pesticides. 

Delegates reaffirmed their commitment that the regulation, import and use of these critical tools be based on science and established a working group to promote the goal, according to the U.S.-based National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. 

NASDA President Richard Ball of New York says, “We must work hand-in-hand to encourage the free flow of food across our borders and the continued development of technology that supports global climate resiliency.” 

The Tri-National Agricultural Accord is the primary opportunity for senior state and provincial agricultural officials of Canada, the U.S. and Mexico to work together on agricultural trade and development issues, a long-standing commitment to trade by the three countries.

U.S. and Mexican agriculture delegates met this week during the 30th annual meeting of the Tri-National Agricultural Accord. The officials discussed concerns regarding recent decisions by Mexico’s federal government to impose arbitrary prohibitions on agricultural biotechnology and certain pesticides. Delegates reaffirmed their commitment that the regulation, import and use of these critical tools be based on science and established a working group to promote the goal, according to the U.S.-based National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. NASDA President Richard Ball of New York says, “We must work hand-in-hand to encourage the free flow of food across our borders and the continued development of technology that supports global climate resiliency.” The Tri-National Agricultural Accord is the primary opportunity for senior state and provincial agricultural officials of Canada, the U.S. and Mexico to work together on agricultural trade and development issues, a long-standing commitment to trade by the three countries.

U.S.-Mexico ag officials establish working group

Fascinating facts about food in America – how and where it is grown and who produces it – are at your fingertips in a new resource produced by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.

Food and Farm Facts helps answer questions that learners of all ages may have, including "Where does our food come from and who grows it?" The 32-page, full-color book features updated facts and easy-to-read infographics about U.S. agriculture that can be used in various ways to help increase agricultural literacy.

The book would be a valuable resource in the classroom, at fairs and events, for student leadership organizations and when creating social media posts. Copies of Food and Farm Facts may be purchased for $4.25 each.

You can order the new Food and Farm Facts book, map, pocket guide and related products in the series at <a href="https://www.dmsfulfillment.com/FarmBureau">Fb.org/store</a>. Additional Food and Farm Facts products created by the Foundation will be available later this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635520024008.png" alt="Farm Food Booklet (Photo Courtesy of AFBF)" />
 <figcaption>Farm Food Booklet (Photo Courtesy of AFBF)</figcaption>
 </figure>Fascinating facts about food in America – how and where it is grown and who produces it – are at your fingertips in a new resource produced by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture.Food and Farm Facts helps answer questions that learners of all ages may have, including "Where does our food come from and who grows it?" The 32-page, full-color book features updated facts and easy-to-read infographics about U.S. agriculture that can be used in various ways to help increase agricultural literacy.The book would be a valuable resource in the classroom, at fairs and events, for student leadership organizations and when creating social media posts. Copies of Food and Farm Facts may be purchased for $4.25 each.You can order the new Food and Farm Facts book, map, pocket guide and related products in the series at <a href="https://www.dmsfulfillment.com/FarmBureau">Fb.org/store</a>. Additional Food and Farm Facts products created by the Foundation will be available later this fall.

Sharing the story of agriculture with Food and Farm Facts

A new report reveals that providing U.S. farmers and ranchers access to fast, affordable and reliable broadband will increase sustainability. 

Funded by the United Soybean Board, the report says improved broadband will also allow more reliable and efficient food production for a growing population and strengthen America’s rural communities. 

Meagan Kaiser, USB treasurer, says, “Without a reliable connection to the internet, data collection and its subsequent use is severely limited,” noting data as the most valuable tool for farmers. The report lays out 15 recommendations for delivering the high-speed internet that farmers and rural communities need. 

The recommendations focus on performance standards, fiber internet access, and addressing gaps in broadband coverage. The recommendations are a direct response to the problems revealed in a 2019 rural broadband study from USB. 

The initial study showed 60 percent of U.S. farmers and ranchers do not believe they have adequate internet connectivity to run their businesses.

A new report reveals that providing U.S. farmers and ranchers access to fast, affordable and reliable broadband will increase sustainability. Funded by the United Soybean Board, the report says improved broadband will also allow more reliable and efficient food production for a growing population and strengthen America’s rural communities. Meagan Kaiser, USB treasurer, says, “Without a reliable connection to the internet, data collection and its subsequent use is severely limited,” noting data as the most valuable tool for farmers. The report lays out 15 recommendations for delivering the high-speed internet that farmers and rural communities need. The recommendations focus on performance standards, fiber internet access, and addressing gaps in broadband coverage. The recommendations are a direct response to the problems revealed in a 2019 rural broadband study from USB. The initial study showed 60 percent of U.S. farmers and ranchers do not believe they have adequate internet connectivity to run their businesses.

USB: Future of farming demands high-speed internet solutions

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service seek to rescind two critical habitat regulations finalized in the last days of the Trump administration. 

In December 2020, FWS issued a final rule that revised the process for considering critical habitat exclusions under the Endangered Species Act. FWS re-evaluated the rule and concluded the conservation purposes of the ESA are better met by resuming its previous approach. 

The proposal follows an executive order which directed all federal agencies to review and address agency actions to ensure consistency with Biden administration objectives. The American Farm Bureau Federation calls the effort a disappointment. 

Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, “The Biden administration has proposed three different changes to these regulations, signaling a return to complicated and burdensome rules that do little to advance conservation goals.”&nbsp; 

Duvall adds AFBF will remain engaged on ESA issues, and encouraged farmers and ranchers to share their stories during the proposed rule change comment period.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service seek to rescind two critical habitat regulations finalized in the last days of the Trump administration. In December 2020, FWS issued a final rule that revised the process for considering critical habitat exclusions under the Endangered Species Act. FWS re-evaluated the rule and concluded the conservation purposes of the ESA are better met by resuming its previous approach. The proposal follows an executive order which directed all federal agencies to review and address agency actions to ensure consistency with Biden administration objectives. The American Farm Bureau Federation calls the effort a disappointment. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, “The Biden administration has proposed three different changes to these regulations, signaling a return to complicated and burdensome rules that do little to advance conservation goals.”&nbsp; Duvall adds AFBF will remain engaged on ESA issues, and encouraged farmers and ranchers to share their stories during the proposed rule change comment period.

Fish and Wildlife Service seeks to reverse Trump era rules

Information updated by USDA’s Economic Research Service Wednesday shows 65 percent of Paycheck Protection Program 2020 agriculture funds went crop farms, with the latter for livestock. 

Last year, farmers and ranchers could use forgivable loans from the program to help keep employees on payroll and offset some of their operating costs. 

The maximum PPP loan amount was 2.5 times the monthly average profit plus payroll and eligible overhead expenses, such as the employer’s share of insurance payments and unemployment taxes. 

If used on eligible expenses within the first 24 weeks of payment, PPP loans were fully forgiven. Individual Small Business Administration loan data indicated that almost 121,000 farm operations applied for a total of $6.0 billion in PPP loans in 2020. 

That accounted for 17 percent of presumed-eligible farm operations. Out of the total PPP loans paid to farm operations in 2020, $3.9 billion went to crop operations, and the remaining $2.1 billion went to livestock operations.

Information updated by USDA’s Economic Research Service Wednesday shows 65 percent of Paycheck Protection Program 2020 agriculture funds went crop farms, with the latter for livestock. Last year, farmers and ranchers could use forgivable loans from the program to help keep employees on payroll and offset some of their operating costs. The maximum PPP loan amount was 2.5 times the monthly average profit plus payroll and eligible overhead expenses, such as the employer’s share of insurance payments and unemployment taxes. If used on eligible expenses within the first 24 weeks of payment, PPP loans were fully forgiven. Individual Small Business Administration loan data indicated that almost 121,000 farm operations applied for a total of $6.0 billion in PPP loans in 2020. That accounted for 17 percent of presumed-eligible farm operations. Out of the total PPP loans paid to farm operations in 2020, $3.9 billion went to crop operations, and the remaining $2.1 billion went to livestock operations.

Crops sector received 65% of PPP loans for agriculture in 2020

Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa and John Thune of South Dakota joined several colleagues in requesting a meeting with President Biden to discuss biofuels and the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

They want to promote biofuels as a key solution for America’s energy and climate agenda. In July, Thune and Grassley tried to meet with the president to talk biofuels with the administration, but they said Biden ignored the request. 

“Mr. President, biofuels are a readily available energy solution that deserves full consideration, not only for helping to stem the recent increase in fuel prices - which has subsequently accelerated inflation - but to serve as a foundational source of transportation emission reductions as a part of your energy and environmental agenda,” the senators say in a letter to the White House. 

“We call on your administration to utilize the full capacity of American agriculture to deliver on both fronts, and we reiterate our request to discuss these matters with you in greater detail.” 

Earlier this year, Grassley reintroduced bipartisan legislation to expand markets for year-round biofuel consumption while also calling out the administration on the delay in assisting the biofuel industry negatively impacted by COVID-19.

Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa and John Thune of South Dakota joined several colleagues in requesting a meeting with President Biden to discuss biofuels and the Renewable Fuel Standard. They want to promote biofuels as a key solution for America’s energy and climate agenda. In July, Thune and Grassley tried to meet with the president to talk biofuels with the administration, but they said Biden ignored the request. “Mr. President, biofuels are a readily available energy solution that deserves full consideration, not only for helping to stem the recent increase in fuel prices - which has subsequently accelerated inflation - but to serve as a foundational source of transportation emission reductions as a part of your energy and environmental agenda,” the senators say in a letter to the White House. “We call on your administration to utilize the full capacity of American agriculture to deliver on both fronts, and we reiterate our request to discuss these matters with you in greater detail.” Earlier this year, Grassley reintroduced bipartisan legislation to expand markets for year-round biofuel consumption while also calling out the administration on the delay in assisting the biofuel industry negatively impacted by COVID-19.

Senators want meeting with Biden to talk biofuels

While last year’s cost of a Thanksgiving Day dinner was the lowest it had been since 2010, this year could be quite a bit different. &nbsp;A New York Times report says it could be the most expensive dinner on record in the holiday’s history. 

Nearly every part of the traditional American Thanksgiving dinner will cost more, ranging from the turkey roasting pan to the coffee and pie. Executives from major food companies like Nestle have already said consumers need to be ready for even more price increases. 

During 2020, COVID-19 kept people from buying for big gatherings, and turkey prices were held down to entice shoppers. This year, turkey prices may see record highs, while the cost of many other foods has also jumped much higher. Industry experts tell the New York Times that there isn’t just one culprit causing the spike. 

The U.S. food supply has been hit by knots in the supply chain, the higher cost of transportation, a shortage of labor, trade policies, and bad weather. Inflation is also a problem. In September, the Consumer Price Index for food was 4.6 percent higher than 2020. Prices for meat, poultry, eggs, and fish were soaring 10.5 percent higher than last year.

While last year’s cost of a Thanksgiving Day dinner was the lowest it had been since 2010, this year could be quite a bit different. &nbsp;A New York Times report says it could be the most expensive dinner on record in the holiday’s history. Nearly every part of the traditional American Thanksgiving dinner will cost more, ranging from the turkey roasting pan to the coffee and pie. Executives from major food companies like Nestle have already said consumers need to be ready for even more price increases. During 2020, COVID-19 kept people from buying for big gatherings, and turkey prices were held down to entice shoppers. This year, turkey prices may see record highs, while the cost of many other foods has also jumped much higher. Industry experts tell the New York Times that there isn’t just one culprit causing the spike. The U.S. food supply has been hit by knots in the supply chain, the higher cost of transportation, a shortage of labor, trade policies, and bad weather. Inflation is also a problem. In September, the Consumer Price Index for food was 4.6 percent higher than 2020. Prices for meat, poultry, eggs, and fish were soaring 10.5 percent higher than last year.

2021 Thanksgiving Dinner will cost more

Food prices are continuing to rise, and consumers across the country are adjusting their shopping habits. A Successful Farming article says food aid agencies are also ramping up their support efforts. Overall, food prices were 4.6 percent higher in September than last year. 

Beef prices were up 17 percent, and pork was almost 13 percent higher than 2020, and eggs were up by 12 percent. The USDA’s Food Price Outlook released this week is still projecting that higher food prices will ease a bit in 2022, with any future increases more in line with historical averages. 

However, with so many factors causing the rising prices, experts disagree on how soon those prices for food, as well as for gasoline and other products, will begin to settle down. 

In response to the rising costs, the Social Security Administration announced its biggest cost-of-living increase in ten years at 5.9 percent, but there’s concern that it won’t be high enough to offset the increasing cost of food.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Biden Administration also boosted SNAP benefits by more than 25 percent. Experts say the inflation spike appears on track to persist deep into 2022 as clogged supply chains, labor shortages, and continuing consumer demand pushes costs higher.

Food prices are continuing to rise, and consumers across the country are adjusting their shopping habits. A Successful Farming article says food aid agencies are also ramping up their support efforts. Overall, food prices were 4.6 percent higher in September than last year. Beef prices were up 17 percent, and pork was almost 13 percent higher than 2020, and eggs were up by 12 percent. The USDA’s Food Price Outlook released this week is still projecting that higher food prices will ease a bit in 2022, with any future increases more in line with historical averages. However, with so many factors causing the rising prices, experts disagree on how soon those prices for food, as well as for gasoline and other products, will begin to settle down. In response to the rising costs, the Social Security Administration announced its biggest cost-of-living increase in ten years at 5.9 percent, but there’s concern that it won’t be high enough to offset the increasing cost of food.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Biden Administration also boosted SNAP benefits by more than 25 percent. Experts say the inflation spike appears on track to persist deep into 2022 as clogged supply chains, labor shortages, and continuing consumer demand pushes costs higher.

Higher food prices should ease a bit in 2022

By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-25/a-changing-climate-will-cost-kansas-farmers-millions-in-future-harvests">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA — Increased heat and drought driven by climate
 change could cost Kansas corn and soy growers tens of millions of 
dollars a year in yield losses by the end of the century.

A new study from Columbia University <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-021-00341-6.epdf?sharing_token=0MFzgyezlY2l2RVSPFYl8tRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0Nxppe7iyc5DE0aCBOZw3qYUSDEWDpVcYa-n-8smVqkj3kf-crK8k6SmirhXLpDvkmt1B7mP6eD4MbBgdWjTvelU5Fw-Cbc5rBGSn98iallrM3j5e3dbSRopylaq_wiQxsi3p2o2XOrOW0oW2QSEDmZS2kY4Z-go4NODZbp1PKgT8iUll48X9xg_nJeT8FmsbYLB1CYHeIg9jwF-uxzbMq3&amp;tracking_referrer=medialibrary.climatecentral.org" target="_blank">concluded that corn and soybean yields in Kansas will drop by as much as 20% to 30%</a>.
 But Kansas corn growers hope that better technology and research into 
drought-resistant varieties will offset potentially disastrous results.

The
 study looked beyond just the impacts of increasing temperatures, which 
is fairly well documented, and found where those higher temperatures 
also led to drier conditions.

“This is kind of a new risk we’ve 
uncovered,” said Corey Lesk, the lead author of the paper. “And it kind 
of adds up on top of the impact of warming itself.”

When analyzed 
together, the link between hot and dry conditions could cut corn and 
soybean yields by 5% worldwide compared to looking at the impacts of 
temperature increases alone.

In Kansas, where the coupling of 
higher temperatures and worse drought is expected to increase, the 
impact on corn and soybean harvests will be double what was previously 
expected.

Lesk and a team of researchers looked at historical 
records of crop yield and temperatures. They then made a separate map to
 look at moisture conditions over the same time period. The scientists 
found that places that were both hot and dry appear doomed to lose more 
of their ability to grow crops.

They then used climate models to project their findings into the future.

“The
 worst impact of warmer temperatures on those crop yields occurred in 
places where those couplings were the strongest,” Lesk said.

Corn 
is a $5 billion industry for Kansas. Decreased yields of that magnitude 
would cost some parts of the state as much as $40 million a year.

Greg Krissek, the CEO of <a href="https://kscorn.com/overview/" target="_blank">Kansas Corn</a> which represents corn growers and promotes the industry, said it’s already adapting to the changing climate and plans to use technology to limit future damage.

“We’ve
 got technology in the corn plant that is much more drought tolerant 
today than it certainly was 15 or 20 years ago,” he said.

He said 
whether it’s a better corn variety or irrigation upgrades that improve 
efficiency, technological advancements will prevent Kansas corn growers 
from experiencing the worst-case climate scenarios.

It’s helped so much already that in the past 15 years non-irrigated acres of corn in Kansas have increased more than irrigated.

“Kansas
 is very well placed to weather something like what this study might 
project because we’re already used to doing that,” Krissek said.

The
 paper also suggests the adoption of more sustainable agriculture 
practices, such as planting cover crops and no-till farming.

But 
ultimately, it suggests treating the problem, and not just the symptoms.
 That means attacking the primary cause of climate change by reducing 
the amount of greenhouse gasses we emit.

“If we’re worried about 
the impact of climate change on our crops and we really think that’s a 
problem, it’s got to translate to real climate policy that actually does
 something to reduce emissions,” Leak, the researcher said.

But 
whatever strategies farmers ultimately adopt, they’ll have to keep the 
progress going if they want to continue to overcome the expected 
changes.

“We need to make sure that we are taking the lead on 
recognizing that these are potential challenges we will be facing in the
 future,” said <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/people/faculty/ciampitti-ignacio/" target="_blank">Ignacio Ciampitti</a>, professor of farming systems at Kansas State University.

He said research like the paper from Columbia, which he was not a part of, is another reminder of what’s at stake.

“We need to continue working on this,” Ciampitti said. “We cannot relax.”

Brian
 Grimmett reports on the environment, energy and natural resources for 
KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on 
Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en" target="_blank">@briangrimmett</a> or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635187475627.png" alt="A center pivot irrigates corn field in Kansas. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>A center pivot irrigates corn field in Kansas. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-25/a-changing-climate-will-cost-kansas-farmers-millions-in-future-harvests">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA — Increased heat and drought driven by climate
 change could cost Kansas corn and soy growers tens of millions of 
dollars a year in yield losses by the end of the century.A new study from Columbia University <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-021-00341-6.epdf?sharing_token=0MFzgyezlY2l2RVSPFYl8tRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0Nxppe7iyc5DE0aCBOZw3qYUSDEWDpVcYa-n-8smVqkj3kf-crK8k6SmirhXLpDvkmt1B7mP6eD4MbBgdWjTvelU5Fw-Cbc5rBGSn98iallrM3j5e3dbSRopylaq_wiQxsi3p2o2XOrOW0oW2QSEDmZS2kY4Z-go4NODZbp1PKgT8iUll48X9xg_nJeT8FmsbYLB1CYHeIg9jwF-uxzbMq3&amp;tracking_referrer=medialibrary.climatecentral.org" target="_blank">concluded that corn and soybean yields in Kansas will drop by as much as 20% to 30%</a>.
 But Kansas corn growers hope that better technology and research into 
drought-resistant varieties will offset potentially disastrous results.The
 study looked beyond just the impacts of increasing temperatures, which 
is fairly well documented, and found where those higher temperatures 
also led to drier conditions.“This is kind of a new risk we’ve 
uncovered,” said Corey Lesk, the lead author of the paper. “And it kind 
of adds up on top of the impact of warming itself.”When analyzed 
together, the link between hot and dry conditions could cut corn and 
soybean yields by 5% worldwide compared to looking at the impacts of 
temperature increases alone.In Kansas, where the coupling of 
higher temperatures and worse drought is expected to increase, the 
impact on corn and soybean harvests will be double what was previously 
expected.Lesk and a team of researchers looked at historical 
records of crop yield and temperatures. They then made a separate map to
 look at moisture conditions over the same time period. The scientists 
found that places that were both hot and dry appear doomed to lose more 
of their ability to grow crops.They then used climate models to project their findings into the future.“The
 worst impact of warmer temperatures on those crop yields occurred in 
places where those couplings were the strongest,” Lesk said.Corn 
is a $5 billion industry for Kansas. Decreased yields of that magnitude 
would cost some parts of the state as much as $40 million a year.Greg Krissek, the CEO of <a href="https://kscorn.com/overview/" target="_blank">Kansas Corn</a> which represents corn growers and promotes the industry, said it’s already adapting to the changing climate and plans to use technology to limit future damage.“We’ve
 got technology in the corn plant that is much more drought tolerant 
today than it certainly was 15 or 20 years ago,” he said.He said 
whether it’s a better corn variety or irrigation upgrades that improve 
efficiency, technological advancements will prevent Kansas corn growers 
from experiencing the worst-case climate scenarios.It’s helped so much already that in the past 15 years non-irrigated acres of corn in Kansas have increased more than irrigated.“Kansas
 is very well placed to weather something like what this study might 
project because we’re already used to doing that,” Krissek said.The
 paper also suggests the adoption of more sustainable agriculture 
practices, such as planting cover crops and no-till farming.But 
ultimately, it suggests treating the problem, and not just the symptoms.
 That means attacking the primary cause of climate change by reducing 
the amount of greenhouse gasses we emit.“If we’re worried about 
the impact of climate change on our crops and we really think that’s a 
problem, it’s got to translate to real climate policy that actually does
 something to reduce emissions,” Leak, the researcher said.But 
whatever strategies farmers ultimately adopt, they’ll have to keep the 
progress going if they want to continue to overcome the expected 
changes.“We need to make sure that we are taking the lead on 
recognizing that these are potential challenges we will be facing in the
 future,” said <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/people/faculty/ciampitti-ignacio/" target="_blank">Ignacio Ciampitti</a>, professor of farming systems at Kansas State University.He said research like the paper from Columbia, which he was not a part of, is another reminder of what’s at stake.“We need to continue working on this,” Ciampitti said. “We cannot relax.”Brian
 Grimmett reports on the environment, energy and natural resources for 
KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on 
Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en" target="_blank">@briangrimmett</a> or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.

Changing climate will cost Kan. farmers millions in future harvests

FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education this week during the 94th National FFA Convention &amp; Expo in Indianapolis. 

Held virtually last year, the event will once again be held in-person and hosted by the city of Indianapolis, starting Wednesday, with some virtual components. FFA members from across the country are expected to participate in the event. 

Those who will not participate in person will have an option to participate in online components – ranging from the virtual FFA Blue Room to student and teacher workshops to general sessions. 

Those attending in person will be able to participate in general convention sessions hosted at Lucas Oil Stadium and the expo, located in the Indiana Convention Center, and explore various career paths open to them. General convention sessions will be aired live on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel, and streamed on FFA.org. To learn more, visit convention.FFA.org.

FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education this week during the 94th National FFA Convention &amp; Expo in Indianapolis. Held virtually last year, the event will once again be held in-person and hosted by the city of Indianapolis, starting Wednesday, with some virtual components. FFA members from across the country are expected to participate in the event. Those who will not participate in person will have an option to participate in online components – ranging from the virtual FFA Blue Room to student and teacher workshops to general sessions. Those attending in person will be able to participate in general convention sessions hosted at Lucas Oil Stadium and the expo, located in the Indiana Convention Center, and explore various career paths open to them. General convention sessions will be aired live on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel, and streamed on FFA.org. To learn more, visit convention.FFA.org.

Students leaders prepare for the 94th National FFA Convention & Expo

Amid a global energy crisis and rising fuel prices at pumps across the country, members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation to repeal the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor slammed the legislation Monday for trying to reduce Americans' access to homegrown, low carbon biofuels. 

Skor says, "Now, more than ever, we need to be incorporating more homegrown, low-cost, and low-carbon biofuels into our fuel supply."&nbsp;&nbsp;The RFS was signed into law over a decade ago to reduce reliance on foreign oil and increase the blending of low-carbon biofuels, saving consumers up to $0.10 per gallon at the pump. 

Additionally, a recent study conducted by ABF Economics shows that moving to nationwide adoption of E15, a fifteen percent ethanol blend, would save consumers $12.2 billion in annual fuel costs. 

Lawmakers who introduced the Corn Ethanol Mandate Elimination Act in July stated, “The federal corn ethanol mandate no longer makes sense when better, lower-carbon alternatives exist.”

Amid a global energy crisis and rising fuel prices at pumps across the country, members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation to repeal the Renewable Fuel Standard. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor slammed the legislation Monday for trying to reduce Americans' access to homegrown, low carbon biofuels. Skor says, "Now, more than ever, we need to be incorporating more homegrown, low-cost, and low-carbon biofuels into our fuel supply."&nbsp;&nbsp;The RFS was signed into law over a decade ago to reduce reliance on foreign oil and increase the blending of low-carbon biofuels, saving consumers up to $0.10 per gallon at the pump. Additionally, a recent study conducted by ABF Economics shows that moving to nationwide adoption of E15, a fifteen percent ethanol blend, would save consumers $12.2 billion in annual fuel costs. Lawmakers who introduced the Corn Ethanol Mandate Elimination Act in July stated, “The federal corn ethanol mandate no longer makes sense when better, lower-carbon alternatives exist.”