Agricultural real estate values continued to increase at a rapid pace across farm country through the end of last year. 

The increase in the value of farmland has accelerated in recent quarters alongside elevated commodity prices that have boosted profit opportunities and supported broad strength in the U.S. farm economy. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City says farm finances and credit conditions have improved dramatically in recent years and interest rates on farm loans remained near historic lows. 

That’s added support to agricultural real estate markets. Looking at the year ahead, the outlook for agricultural credit conditions remains strong. Elevated commodity prices and robust support from government aid programs due to COVID-19 supported rapid improvement in farm income and credit conditions. 

Despite concerns about higher input costs and intensifying drought in some regions, markets for most major commodities remained strong, and producers are looking at sound profit opportunities in 2022.

Agricultural real estate values continued to increase at a rapid pace across farm country through the end of last year. The increase in the value of farmland has accelerated in recent quarters alongside elevated commodity prices that have boosted profit opportunities and supported broad strength in the U.S. farm economy. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City says farm finances and credit conditions have improved dramatically in recent years and interest rates on farm loans remained near historic lows. That’s added support to agricultural real estate markets. Looking at the year ahead, the outlook for agricultural credit conditions remains strong. Elevated commodity prices and robust support from government aid programs due to COVID-19 supported rapid improvement in farm income and credit conditions. Despite concerns about higher input costs and intensifying drought in some regions, markets for most major commodities remained strong, and producers are looking at sound profit opportunities in 2022.

Farm real estate values continue to climb

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $450 million in grant funding for port-related projects through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. 

The grants can help ports expand capacity and improve the movement of goods through U.S. supply chains. 

The Department of Transportation says the effort is the largest investment in the program ever, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will invest $17 billion in ports and waterways. 

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says, “We’re proud to announce this funding to help ports improve their infrastructure— to get goods moving more efficiently and help keep costs under control for American families.” 

The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to support projects that will improve the movement of goods to, through and around ports. 

Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls upon applicants to explore ways to include projects that will improve goods movement while also strengthening resilience, reducing emissions and advancing environmental justice.

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $450 million in grant funding for port-related projects through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. The grants can help ports expand capacity and improve the movement of goods through U.S. supply chains. The Department of Transportation says the effort is the largest investment in the program ever, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will invest $17 billion in ports and waterways. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says, “We’re proud to announce this funding to help ports improve their infrastructure— to get goods moving more efficiently and help keep costs under control for American families.” The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to support projects that will improve the movement of goods to, through and around ports. Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls upon applicants to explore ways to include projects that will improve goods movement while also strengthening resilience, reducing emissions and advancing environmental justice.

Biden Administration announces Port Infrastructure funding

Overall, food prices increased by an average of 3.9 percent in 2021 compared to 2020, the highest annual increase since 2008. 

USDA's Economic Research Service released new data Wednesday that shows food prices grew more slowly than "all items," but more quickly than all other of the "major groups" tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The Consumer Price Index for all items rose 4.7 percent in 2021. The food-away-from-home, restaurant purchases, increased 4.5 percent, compared with an increase of 3.5 percent for food-at-home - grocery stores or other purchases from food retailers. 

The highest price increases in food-at-home categories in 2021 were for beef and veal at 9.3 percent, pork at 8.6 percent, and fresh fruit 5.5 percent. Using the Consumer Price Index data, USDA researchers project overall food prices will increase between two and three percent in 2022. The Consumer Price Index for food increased 0.9 percent in January.

Overall, food prices increased by an average of 3.9 percent in 2021 compared to 2020, the highest annual increase since 2008. USDA's Economic Research Service released new data Wednesday that shows food prices grew more slowly than "all items," but more quickly than all other of the "major groups" tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Consumer Price Index for all items rose 4.7 percent in 2021. The food-away-from-home, restaurant purchases, increased 4.5 percent, compared with an increase of 3.5 percent for food-at-home - grocery stores or other purchases from food retailers. The highest price increases in food-at-home categories in 2021 were for beef and veal at 9.3 percent, pork at 8.6 percent, and fresh fruit 5.5 percent. Using the Consumer Price Index data, USDA researchers project overall food prices will increase between two and three percent in 2022. The Consumer Price Index for food increased 0.9 percent in January.

Food prices below overall inflation in 2021

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced another confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI. 

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the HPAI outbreak in a commercial poultry flock in New Castle County, Delaware. APHIS and state officials have quarantined the flock and will depopulate the birds. 

The announcement follows the previous confirmation of HPAI in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine and New York late last week. 

Other confirmed HPAI outbreaks include sites in Kentucky, Virginia, Indiana, and North and South Carolina. Earlier this month, APHIS expanded wild bird surveillance for avian influenza to include the Mississippi and Central Flyways. 

USDA says anyone involved with poultry should review their biosecurity plan and enhance their biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their birds. In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state and federal officials.

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced another confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the HPAI outbreak in a commercial poultry flock in New Castle County, Delaware. APHIS and state officials have quarantined the flock and will depopulate the birds. The announcement follows the previous confirmation of HPAI in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine and New York late last week. Other confirmed HPAI outbreaks include sites in Kentucky, Virginia, Indiana, and North and South Carolina. Earlier this month, APHIS expanded wild bird surveillance for avian influenza to include the Mississippi and Central Flyways. USDA says anyone involved with poultry should review their biosecurity plan and enhance their biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their birds. In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state and federal officials.

HPAI found in commercial poultry flock in Delaware

The Environmental Protection Agency agreed to file a notice in the Federal Register seeking comment on a proposed judicial consent decree that would require EPA to finalize the 2021 and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligations. 

The RVO’s are the subject of pending rulemaking due no later than June 3, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The announcement is part of settlement discussions with Growth Energy, which filed multiple notices of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court in response to the agency’s extended delay in issuing the RVOs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Growth Energy contends the delays are a direct violation of the deadlines established by Congress for the Renewable Fuel Standard program.&nbsp; 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This agreement is a significant milestone for the biofuels industry and reflects Growth Energy’s persistent efforts to hold EPA accountable.” 

The EPA Federal Register notice scheduled for publication Wednesday provides 30 days for public comment from the date of publication.

The Environmental Protection Agency agreed to file a notice in the Federal Register seeking comment on a proposed judicial consent decree that would require EPA to finalize the 2021 and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligations. The RVO’s are the subject of pending rulemaking due no later than June 3, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The announcement is part of settlement discussions with Growth Energy, which filed multiple notices of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court in response to the agency’s extended delay in issuing the RVOs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy contends the delays are a direct violation of the deadlines established by Congress for the Renewable Fuel Standard program.&nbsp; Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This agreement is a significant milestone for the biofuels industry and reflects Growth Energy’s persistent efforts to hold EPA accountable.” The EPA Federal Register notice scheduled for publication Wednesday provides 30 days for public comment from the date of publication.

Growth Energy, EPA reach settlement on deadline for issuing 2021, 2022 RVO

In 2021, the U.S. ethanol industry “recovered substantially” from pandemic conditions, with ethanol and gasoline use approaching pre-COVID-19 levels in the second half of the year. 

A study on the industry by ABF Economics for the Renewable Fuels Association was released this week. 

With higher demand and value, ethanol’s contribution to U.S. gross domestic product in 2021 was the second-highest ever. 

In 2021, more than 73,000 U.S. jobs were directly associated with the ethanol industry, which supported an additional 334,200 indirect and induced jobs across all sectors of the economy. The industry created $28.7 billion in household income and contributed just over $52 billion to gross domestic product. 

Compared to 2020, this represented a 55 percent increase in income generated and a 50 percent increase in the contribution to GDP. 

The new report also shows that the ethanol industry spent nearly $38 billion on raw materials and goods and services to produce ethanol during 2021, with corn purchases alone accounting for more than $30 billion.

In 2021, the U.S. ethanol industry “recovered substantially” from pandemic conditions, with ethanol and gasoline use approaching pre-COVID-19 levels in the second half of the year. A study on the industry by ABF Economics for the Renewable Fuels Association was released this week. With higher demand and value, ethanol’s contribution to U.S. gross domestic product in 2021 was the second-highest ever. In 2021, more than 73,000 U.S. jobs were directly associated with the ethanol industry, which supported an additional 334,200 indirect and induced jobs across all sectors of the economy. The industry created $28.7 billion in household income and contributed just over $52 billion to gross domestic product. Compared to 2020, this represented a 55 percent increase in income generated and a 50 percent increase in the contribution to GDP. The new report also shows that the ethanol industry spent nearly $38 billion on raw materials and goods and services to produce ethanol during 2021, with corn purchases alone accounting for more than $30 billion.

Study: Ethanol industry strongly rebounded in 2021

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine. 

Samples from the flock were tested at the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. 

APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials in Maine on a joint incident response. 

State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maine confirmation is the latest in several confirmed cases of HPAI in the United States. 

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. Additional information on biosecurity for non-commercial backyard flocks can be found at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine. Samples from the flock were tested at the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials in Maine on a joint incident response. State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maine confirmation is the latest in several confirmed cases of HPAI in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. Additional information on biosecurity for non-commercial backyard flocks can be found at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

USDA finds Avian Influenza in Maine

USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the agency is extending the application deadline for funding under the ReConnect Program to March 9. 

The funds are intended to expand high-speed internet access to millions of people across rural America. 

“Today’s extension of the ReConnect Program deadline will help ensure that all applicants have the time they need to secure this critical funding,” Torres Small says. 

“I encourage all eligible parties to apply for this assistance.”&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA is making $200 million available in ReConnect Program loans, $250 million in loan/grant combinations, $350 million in grants with a 25 percent matching requirement, and $350 million in grants with no matching requirements for tribes and projects in socially vulnerable communities. 

In the coming months, USDA plans to begin making available an additional $2 billion in rural broadband funding allocated to USDA by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the agency is extending the application deadline for funding under the ReConnect Program to March 9. The funds are intended to expand high-speed internet access to millions of people across rural America. “Today’s extension of the ReConnect Program deadline will help ensure that all applicants have the time they need to secure this critical funding,” Torres Small says. “I encourage all eligible parties to apply for this assistance.”&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA is making $200 million available in ReConnect Program loans, $250 million in loan/grant combinations, $350 million in grants with a 25 percent matching requirement, and $350 million in grants with no matching requirements for tribes and projects in socially vulnerable communities. In the coming months, USDA plans to begin making available an additional $2 billion in rural broadband funding allocated to USDA by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

USDA extends application deadline for ReConnect Program

Bayer recently announced it’s moving ahead on a short-stature corn project which will see test plantings on selected farmer fields in 2023. 

DTN says short-stature hybrids stand about a third to half the height of standard corn hybrids with an ear that sets about knee-high. 

The hybrids initially debuted in Mexico, and the company is now advancing the concept through their U.S. pipeline in three separate versions, which are traditional breeding, genetically engineered, and gene-edited. 

The company is making plans for U.S. farmers to get a look at the product in 2023 as Bayer works with a limited number of farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;A broad commercial rollout is set for 2024. 

The idea behind creating the hybrids is plants that ideally use fewer resources and are easier to negotiate when in-crop applications of inputs are necessary. Shrinking the corn plant should improve stability and help it withstand extreme weather like high winds.

Bayer recently announced it’s moving ahead on a short-stature corn project which will see test plantings on selected farmer fields in 2023. DTN says short-stature hybrids stand about a third to half the height of standard corn hybrids with an ear that sets about knee-high. The hybrids initially debuted in Mexico, and the company is now advancing the concept through their U.S. pipeline in three separate versions, which are traditional breeding, genetically engineered, and gene-edited. The company is making plans for U.S. farmers to get a look at the product in 2023 as Bayer works with a limited number of farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;A broad commercial rollout is set for 2024. The idea behind creating the hybrids is plants that ideally use fewer resources and are easier to negotiate when in-crop applications of inputs are necessary. Shrinking the corn plant should improve stability and help it withstand extreme weather like high winds.

Bayer moving forward on short-corn system

The Centers for Disease Control is expressing gratitude to the nation’s Cooperative Extension Service for helping address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in rural America. 

Extension educators have worked to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19. 

“Rural America continues to get hit hard by COVID, and the lives of families and communities continue to feel the impacts,” says Dr. Carrie Castille, director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. 

“Because our communities are faced with making important decisions about vaccinations, having a trusted, independent community agent to aid in decision making is essential.” Cooperative Extension agents and educators are well placed to have that discussion and provide objective educational information. 

Through an interagency agreement with the CDC and NIFA, Cooperative Extension units at land-grant universities across the nation received funding to launch the Cooperative Extension Immunization Teaching and Engagement initiative to address health disparities among rural and underserved communities.

The Centers for Disease Control is expressing gratitude to the nation’s Cooperative Extension Service for helping address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in rural America. Extension educators have worked to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19. “Rural America continues to get hit hard by COVID, and the lives of families and communities continue to feel the impacts,” says Dr. Carrie Castille, director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “Because our communities are faced with making important decisions about vaccinations, having a trusted, independent community agent to aid in decision making is essential.” Cooperative Extension agents and educators are well placed to have that discussion and provide objective educational information. Through an interagency agreement with the CDC and NIFA, Cooperative Extension units at land-grant universities across the nation received funding to launch the Cooperative Extension Immunization Teaching and Engagement initiative to address health disparities among rural and underserved communities.

CDC says Extension Service helping rural America get vaccinated

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the results of the 2021 Hemp Acreage and Production Survey in the agency’s National Hemp Report. 

Planted area for industrial hemp grown in the open for all uses in the U.S. totaled 54,150 acres. 

The area harvested for all utilizations totaled 33,480 acres, and the value of U.S. hemp grown in the open totaled $712 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The value of hemp production grown under protection was worth $112 million. 

The area grown under protection totaled 15.6 million square feet. “The data will help guide USDA in supporting domestic hemp production and will help producers make decisions on their operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. 

“The survey results may also impact policy decisions about the hemp industry.” Floral hemp production was estimated at 19.7 million pounds, with the average yield at 1,235 pounds per acre. Hemp grown for grain totaled 4.37 million pounds, with the average yield coming in at 530 pounds per acre.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the results of the 2021 Hemp Acreage and Production Survey in the agency’s National Hemp Report. Planted area for industrial hemp grown in the open for all uses in the U.S. totaled 54,150 acres. The area harvested for all utilizations totaled 33,480 acres, and the value of U.S. hemp grown in the open totaled $712 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The value of hemp production grown under protection was worth $112 million. The area grown under protection totaled 15.6 million square feet. “The data will help guide USDA in supporting domestic hemp production and will help producers make decisions on their operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “The survey results may also impact policy decisions about the hemp industry.” Floral hemp production was estimated at 19.7 million pounds, with the average yield at 1,235 pounds per acre. Hemp grown for grain totaled 4.37 million pounds, with the average yield coming in at 530 pounds per acre.

2021 U.S. Hemp production worth $824 million

Traders from India signed contracts to import a record 100,000 tons of soy oil from the U.S. Reuters says India made the buy because of limited supplies from drought-hit South America during a time when the price of rival palm oil is at record-high levels. 

The increased purchases from the U.S. are expected to support U.S. soy oil prices which are 20 percent higher this year and close to their highest point in ten years. 

India is the world’s biggest edible oil importer and usually buys from Argentina and Brazil. Lower soybean output in those two countries forced India to turn to the U.S. 

“Buyers in India have bought U.S. soy oil vessels,” says the head of a global trading firm in India who wished to remain anonymous because of company policy. “Prices were attractive, and there weren’t enough supplies in South America. Buying another two vessels is possible in the short term.”

Traders from India signed contracts to import a record 100,000 tons of soy oil from the U.S. Reuters says India made the buy because of limited supplies from drought-hit South America during a time when the price of rival palm oil is at record-high levels. The increased purchases from the U.S. are expected to support U.S. soy oil prices which are 20 percent higher this year and close to their highest point in ten years. India is the world’s biggest edible oil importer and usually buys from Argentina and Brazil. Lower soybean output in those two countries forced India to turn to the U.S. “Buyers in India have bought U.S. soy oil vessels,” says the head of a global trading firm in India who wished to remain anonymous because of company policy. “Prices were attractive, and there weren’t enough supplies in South America. Buying another two vessels is possible in the short term.”

India makes record U.S soy oil purchase

Deere and Company reported a net income of $903 million during the company’s first quarter that ended on January 30, or about $2.92 a share. 

That compares to a net income of $1.224 billion or $3.87 a share for the same time last year. Worldwide net sales and revenues increased five percent in the first quarter to $9.56 billion. 

Equipment operations and net sales were $8.53 billion for the quarter, compared with $8.05 billion in 2021. 

“Deere’s performance in the first quarter was impressive given production issues surrounding the delayed ratification of our UAW contract as well as persistent challenges posed by the supply chain and pandemic,” says Deere Chairman and CEO John C. May. 

“Those factors led to higher production costs during the quarter.” May also says the company will continue to work closely with key suppliers to manage the situation. Net income for Deere and Company is forecast between $6.7 and $7.1 billion.

Deere and Company reported a net income of $903 million during the company’s first quarter that ended on January 30, or about $2.92 a share. That compares to a net income of $1.224 billion or $3.87 a share for the same time last year. Worldwide net sales and revenues increased five percent in the first quarter to $9.56 billion. Equipment operations and net sales were $8.53 billion for the quarter, compared with $8.05 billion in 2021. “Deere’s performance in the first quarter was impressive given production issues surrounding the delayed ratification of our UAW contract as well as persistent challenges posed by the supply chain and pandemic,” says Deere Chairman and CEO John C. May. “Those factors led to higher production costs during the quarter.” May also says the company will continue to work closely with key suppliers to manage the situation. Net income for Deere and Company is forecast between $6.7 and $7.1 billion.

Deere revenues up while net income drops in the first quarter

U.S. biofuel industry backers told lawmakers that the nation’s renewable fuel mandates are good for farmers, national security, and the environment. 

The supporters defended the Renewable Fuel Standard as the Biden administration considers changes to the program. 

The program is good for the nation’s farmers, but the oil industry says the mandates are too expensive. 

“The RFS remains the nation’s most successful clean energy policy,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor during the congressional hearing. “Let me be clear on this. There is no path to net-zero emissions by 2050 without biofuels.” 

Reuters says other advocates called the RFS “crucial support” for American farmers and it reduces the need for energy imports. The Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing the RFS and intends to announce potential changes to the program by May. 

“As much as the Biden administration dreams of all-electric vehicles, the reality is liquid fuels are here to stay,” says Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa.

U.S. biofuel industry backers told lawmakers that the nation’s renewable fuel mandates are good for farmers, national security, and the environment. The supporters defended the Renewable Fuel Standard as the Biden administration considers changes to the program. The program is good for the nation’s farmers, but the oil industry says the mandates are too expensive. “The RFS remains the nation’s most successful clean energy policy,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor during the congressional hearing. “Let me be clear on this. There is no path to net-zero emissions by 2050 without biofuels.” Reuters says other advocates called the RFS “crucial support” for American farmers and it reduces the need for energy imports. The Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing the RFS and intends to announce potential changes to the program by May. “As much as the Biden administration dreams of all-electric vehicles, the reality is liquid fuels are here to stay,” says Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa.

U.S. biofuel stresses biofuel successes in testimony

More than 735,000 FFA members across the country will share the story of agriculture as part of National FFA Week. 

The week starts on Saturday, February 19, and culminates on Saturday, February 26. 

“National FFA Week is an important week for members across the country, as not only do we celebrate the organization, but we share the message of FFA and agriculture,” says National FFA Advisor Dr. James Woodard. 

“FFA chapters across the country celebrate agriculture while thanking their supporters.” Woodard also says FFA and agricultural education continue to play a key role in not only developing the next generation of leaders but also developing those who will be filling the ever-growing need in the talent pipeline. 

FFA members will share agriculture with fellow students and their communities while also giving back to their communities through service projects. The six national officers will also connect with chapters around the country.

More than 735,000 FFA members across the country will share the story of agriculture as part of National FFA Week. The week starts on Saturday, February 19, and culminates on Saturday, February 26. “National FFA Week is an important week for members across the country, as not only do we celebrate the organization, but we share the message of FFA and agriculture,” says National FFA Advisor Dr. James Woodard. “FFA chapters across the country celebrate agriculture while thanking their supporters.” Woodard also says FFA and agricultural education continue to play a key role in not only developing the next generation of leaders but also developing those who will be filling the ever-growing need in the talent pipeline. FFA members will share agriculture with fellow students and their communities while also giving back to their communities through service projects. The six national officers will also connect with chapters around the country.

Students celebrate agriculture and leadership during FFA week

Senior leadership in the USDA will be back in their offices on February 28. 

Keith Gray, associate administrator of the Risk Management Agency made the announcement during the Crop Insurance Industry’s Annual Convention. 

The Hagstrom Report says mid-level staff will be expected to return by March 28, and all staff will be moved in by May 27. “But we aren’t coming back in the traditional sense,” Gray says. 

“We’re going to be hybrid, largely remote.” How much time RMA employees spend in the office will also depend on local conditions. The office has been 100 percent telework, but Gray says working that way hasn’t slowed them down. 

“In some cases, remote work has improved our response time,” Gray says. “We are going to hold everyone accountable.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA will have a policy of maximum telework, which means they can work remotely eight out of every ten days.

Senior leadership in the USDA will be back in their offices on February 28. Keith Gray, associate administrator of the Risk Management Agency made the announcement during the Crop Insurance Industry’s Annual Convention. The Hagstrom Report says mid-level staff will be expected to return by March 28, and all staff will be moved in by May 27. “But we aren’t coming back in the traditional sense,” Gray says. “We’re going to be hybrid, largely remote.” How much time RMA employees spend in the office will also depend on local conditions. The office has been 100 percent telework, but Gray says working that way hasn’t slowed them down. “In some cases, remote work has improved our response time,” Gray says. “We are going to hold everyone accountable.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA will have a policy of maximum telework, which means they can work remotely eight out of every ten days.

USDA announces reopening schedule

China failed to reach the Phase One Agreement commitments to purchase U.S. goods and services, including agricultural commodities. 

The U.S. Trade Representative's office revealed the data in a more than 70-page report Wednesday. 

The annual review states, "The reality is that this Agreement did not meaningfully address the more fundamental concerns that the United States has with China's state-led, non-market policies and practices and their harmful impact on the U.S. economy." 

While the report focused on China's World Trade Organization compliance, it covered agricultural trade. 

USTR says China's implementation of the agricultural commitments in the Phase One Agreement has been generally positive, however, there has been a notable lack of meaningful action in other areas, including agricultural biotechnology and a required risk assessment for the use of ractopamine in the production of beef and pork. 

And the report finds China remains a difficult and unpredictable market for U.S. agricultural exporters, largely because of inconsistent enforcement of regulations and selective intervention in the market by China’s regulatory authorities.

China failed to reach the Phase One Agreement commitments to purchase U.S. goods and services, including agricultural commodities. The U.S. Trade Representative's office revealed the data in a more than 70-page report Wednesday. The annual review states, "The reality is that this Agreement did not meaningfully address the more fundamental concerns that the United States has with China's state-led, non-market policies and practices and their harmful impact on the U.S. economy." While the report focused on China's World Trade Organization compliance, it covered agricultural trade. USTR says China's implementation of the agricultural commitments in the Phase One Agreement has been generally positive, however, there has been a notable lack of meaningful action in other areas, including agricultural biotechnology and a required risk assessment for the use of ractopamine in the production of beef and pork. And the report finds China remains a difficult and unpredictable market for U.S. agricultural exporters, largely because of inconsistent enforcement of regulations and selective intervention in the market by China’s regulatory authorities.

USTR releases annual report on China's WTO compliance

State agriculture officials this week announced their priorities for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill discussion. 

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture will direct its policy advocacy efforts regarding the bill towards ten specific policy areas. At the hybrid 2022 NASDA Winter Policy Conference this week, members laid the foundation for those priorities. 

NASDA wants to focus its attention on agriculture research, animal disease, conservation and climate resiliency, cyber security and food safety. Other priorities include hemp, invasive species, local food systems, Specialty Crop Block Grants and trade promotion. 

NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “The next Farm Bill must remain unified, securing a commitment to American agriculture and the critical food and nutritional assistance programs for those who need it most.” 

McKinney adds that NASDA members are often the officials closest to farmers themselves. As co-regulators with the federal government, they are uniquely positioned to lead impact and direct policymaking solutions for the 2023 Farm Bill.

State agriculture officials this week announced their priorities for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill discussion. The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture will direct its policy advocacy efforts regarding the bill towards ten specific policy areas. At the hybrid 2022 NASDA Winter Policy Conference this week, members laid the foundation for those priorities. NASDA wants to focus its attention on agriculture research, animal disease, conservation and climate resiliency, cyber security and food safety. Other priorities include hemp, invasive species, local food systems, Specialty Crop Block Grants and trade promotion. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “The next Farm Bill must remain unified, securing a commitment to American agriculture and the critical food and nutritional assistance programs for those who need it most.” McKinney adds that NASDA members are often the officials closest to farmers themselves. As co-regulators with the federal government, they are uniquely positioned to lead impact and direct policymaking solutions for the 2023 Farm Bill.

NASDA announces priorities for the 2023 farm bill

Agricultural output in the United States nearly tripled between 1948 and 2017 even as the amount of labor hours-worked declined by more than 80 percent. 

USDA’s Economic Research Service says the opposing trends resulted in an increase in labor productivity growth in the U.S. farm sector. Labor productivity, calculated as average output per unit of labor input, is a popular measure for understanding economic growth. 

ERS estimates agricultural output per worker grew by 16 times from 1948 through 2017. At the same time, agricultural output per hour worked grew even faster, by 17 times, implying that average hours worked per worker declined. 

Labor productivity estimates can vary based on different ways labor is measured. One factor in the increased labor productivity is the quality of labor, measured by attributes such as age, gender, and the highest level of education a worker has reached. 

ERS researchers estimate that changes to farmworker attributes accounted for about 13 percent of growth in hourly-based annual labor productivity during the time studied.

Agricultural output in the United States nearly tripled between 1948 and 2017 even as the amount of labor hours-worked declined by more than 80 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service says the opposing trends resulted in an increase in labor productivity growth in the U.S. farm sector. Labor productivity, calculated as average output per unit of labor input, is a popular measure for understanding economic growth. ERS estimates agricultural output per worker grew by 16 times from 1948 through 2017. At the same time, agricultural output per hour worked grew even faster, by 17 times, implying that average hours worked per worker declined. Labor productivity estimates can vary based on different ways labor is measured. One factor in the increased labor productivity is the quality of labor, measured by attributes such as age, gender, and the highest level of education a worker has reached. ERS researchers estimate that changes to farmworker attributes accounted for about 13 percent of growth in hourly-based annual labor productivity during the time studied.

USDA: Ag productivity increased as hours worked declined

Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley arrived in Dubai Tuesday to launch the Department of Agriculture’s first trade mission since November 2019. 

Whitley is kicking off the trade mission for Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, who arrives in Dubai on Friday, with a delegation of representatives from U.S. agribusinesses, farm organizations, and state agriculture departments interested in exploring export opportunities across the Middle East. 

Whitley says, “I am thrilled that USDA trade missions are back, and I am honored to lead such a dynamic group of U.S. agribusinesses and representatives to the UAE.” 

With annual agricultural exports averaging more than $1.2 billion during the last five years, the United States is the UAE’s fourth-largest supplier of food and farm products and is poised for further export growth. 

Trade mission participants will engage directly with potential customers, receive in-depth market briefings, and participate in site visits, including Expo Dubai 2020.

Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley arrived in Dubai Tuesday to launch the Department of Agriculture’s first trade mission since November 2019. Whitley is kicking off the trade mission for Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, who arrives in Dubai on Friday, with a delegation of representatives from U.S. agribusinesses, farm organizations, and state agriculture departments interested in exploring export opportunities across the Middle East. Whitley says, “I am thrilled that USDA trade missions are back, and I am honored to lead such a dynamic group of U.S. agribusinesses and representatives to the UAE.” With annual agricultural exports averaging more than $1.2 billion during the last five years, the United States is the UAE’s fourth-largest supplier of food and farm products and is poised for further export growth. Trade mission participants will engage directly with potential customers, receive in-depth market briefings, and participate in site visits, including Expo Dubai 2020.

USDA trade mission underway in Dubai

The Center for Rural Affairs applauds expansions to federal crop insurance recently announced by USDA’s Risk Management Agency. 

The changes signal encouraging opportunities for farmers practicing conservation on their operations, according to the organization. This month, RMA announced it will be offering the Pandemic Cover Crop Program for a second year. 

The program offers a $5 per acre discount on a producer’s crop insurance premium if they planted a qualifying cover crop ahead of their 2022 crop. If a cover crop variety is reportable to the Farm Service Agency, it is eligible for the program. 

To receive the benefit, producers must have a Report of Acreage form filed for their cover crops by March 15, also the crop insurance sales closing date for most spring crops. 

Kate Hansen with the Center for Rural Affairs says, "Producers across the country are implementing new conservation practices to better steward their land,” adding, “These recent developments from RMA to support these efforts are encouraging.”

The Center for Rural Affairs applauds expansions to federal crop insurance recently announced by USDA’s Risk Management Agency. The changes signal encouraging opportunities for farmers practicing conservation on their operations, according to the organization. This month, RMA announced it will be offering the Pandemic Cover Crop Program for a second year. The program offers a $5 per acre discount on a producer’s crop insurance premium if they planted a qualifying cover crop ahead of their 2022 crop. If a cover crop variety is reportable to the Farm Service Agency, it is eligible for the program. To receive the benefit, producers must have a Report of Acreage form filed for their cover crops by March 15, also the crop insurance sales closing date for most spring crops. Kate Hansen with the Center for Rural Affairs says, "Producers across the country are implementing new conservation practices to better steward their land,” adding, “These recent developments from RMA to support these efforts are encouraging.”

Center for Rural Affairs applauds recent crop insurance improvements

As National FFA Week approaches, Culver’s is celebrating its relationship with the organization of future agriculture leaders by launching its eighth annual FFA Essay Contest. 

Culver's longstanding relationship with FFA is part of its Thank You Farmers Project, an initiative that aims to celebrate and advocate for the role of farming in creating a more resilient and sustainable world. 

Three winners will be selected, earning prizes of $7,500, $5,000 and $2,500 for their FFA chapters to pursue additional educational projects and initiatives. Culver's has awarded over $100,000 in prizes to contest finalists since 2015. 

This year's prompt is: Agriculture impacts the world in so many ways, Share three ways the industry is making a positive difference that you want people to know about. Written essays, 1,000 words or less, and videos, five minutes or less, will be accepted at culvers.com/essaycontest until the deadline of April 11, 2022. National FFA Week begins this Saturday.

As National FFA Week approaches, Culver’s is celebrating its relationship with the organization of future agriculture leaders by launching its eighth annual FFA Essay Contest. Culver's longstanding relationship with FFA is part of its Thank You Farmers Project, an initiative that aims to celebrate and advocate for the role of farming in creating a more resilient and sustainable world. Three winners will be selected, earning prizes of $7,500, $5,000 and $2,500 for their FFA chapters to pursue additional educational projects and initiatives. Culver's has awarded over $100,000 in prizes to contest finalists since 2015. This year's prompt is: Agriculture impacts the world in so many ways, Share three ways the industry is making a positive difference that you want people to know about. Written essays, 1,000 words or less, and videos, five minutes or less, will be accepted at culvers.com/essaycontest until the deadline of April 11, 2022. National FFA Week begins this Saturday.

Culvers celebrates National FFA Week with essay contest

For the seventh straight week, the nation's average gas price climbed, up 4.6 cents from a week ago to $3.47 per gallon. The national average is up 16.5 cents from a month ago and 97.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel increased 8.9 cents in the last week to $3.87 per gallon, the highest since July 2014. 

The jump in gasoline prices continues as oil prices continue to push higher, reaching $94 per barrel last week on continued concern over the possible imminent threat that Russia may invade Ukraine. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “I see no other potentials in the short term but additional price increases unless Russia does an about-face on Ukraine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beyond that, seasonal issues will push prices further higher, including the multi-month transition to summer gasoline. U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week as stations refueled after major winter storms boosted demand.

For the seventh straight week, the nation's average gas price climbed, up 4.6 cents from a week ago to $3.47 per gallon. The national average is up 16.5 cents from a month ago and 97.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 8.9 cents in the last week to $3.87 per gallon, the highest since July 2014. The jump in gasoline prices continues as oil prices continue to push higher, reaching $94 per barrel last week on continued concern over the possible imminent threat that Russia may invade Ukraine. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “I see no other potentials in the short term but additional price increases unless Russia does an about-face on Ukraine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Beyond that, seasonal issues will push prices further higher, including the multi-month transition to summer gasoline. U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week as stations refueled after major winter storms boosted demand.

Russia-Ukraine issue driving fuel prices higher

The Department of Agriculture Monday unveiled a resource guide to help rural businesses grow and expand the rural economy. 

The guide features information on how rural entrepreneurs can use USDA and other federal programs to access financing and other assistance to help start and expand their businesses. 

Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the guide will "enhance American competitiveness around the world to meet the challenges of the 21st century by equipping rural entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed." 

The guide includes tools to help rural businesses expand access to capital, create value-added agriculture products, access high-speed internet and cut energy costs. 

The guide also includes sources on access to health care resources, workforce development and training opportunities. Finally, the guide features firsthand stories from Rural Development customers on ways USDA programs and services have helped them start or expand businesses. The guide is available on USDA’s Rural Development website, rd.usda.gov.

The Department of Agriculture Monday unveiled a resource guide to help rural businesses grow and expand the rural economy. The guide features information on how rural entrepreneurs can use USDA and other federal programs to access financing and other assistance to help start and expand their businesses. Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the guide will "enhance American competitiveness around the world to meet the challenges of the 21st century by equipping rural entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed." The guide includes tools to help rural businesses expand access to capital, create value-added agriculture products, access high-speed internet and cut energy costs. The guide also includes sources on access to health care resources, workforce development and training opportunities. Finally, the guide features firsthand stories from Rural Development customers on ways USDA programs and services have helped them start or expand businesses. The guide is available on USDA’s Rural Development website, rd.usda.gov.

USDA releases resource guide for rural entrepreneurs

The United States annually imports more than $5 billion worth of cocoa and chocolate products, according to new data from USDA's Economic Research Service. 

With cocoa beans only grown abroad, trade is critical to meet the U.S. consumer’s fondness for cocoa-based treats. Imported shipments of chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa were the largest share of imports and were valued at almost $2.8 billion a year between 2017 and 2021. 

The import value of cocoa beans averaged more than $1.1 billion annually over the five-year period. Cocoa butter shipments, principally supplied by Indonesia and Malaysia, were valued at $576 million annually, while supplies of cocoa paste averaged about $293 million a year. 

Cocoa beans, the raw seeds from the cacao tree that are processed into derivative products, were imported mostly from the Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Ghana. The United States also exports chocolate and cocoa products to Canada and Mexico.

The United States annually imports more than $5 billion worth of cocoa and chocolate products, according to new data from USDA's Economic Research Service. With cocoa beans only grown abroad, trade is critical to meet the U.S. consumer’s fondness for cocoa-based treats. Imported shipments of chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa were the largest share of imports and were valued at almost $2.8 billion a year between 2017 and 2021. The import value of cocoa beans averaged more than $1.1 billion annually over the five-year period. Cocoa butter shipments, principally supplied by Indonesia and Malaysia, were valued at $576 million annually, while supplies of cocoa paste averaged about $293 million a year. Cocoa beans, the raw seeds from the cacao tree that are processed into derivative products, were imported mostly from the Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Ghana. The United States also exports chocolate and cocoa products to Canada and Mexico.