The Senate and the House passed a Continuing Resolution to fund federal agencies through December 3. The CR provides $10 billion in much-needed disaster relief for losses incurred by farmers and ranchers in 2020 and 2021. It also extends Livestock Mandatory Reporting through December 3 of this year. 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says this is good news for family farmers and ranchers. “In addition to keeping federal programs funded, the CR includes critical relief to help farmers and ranchers recover from disasters,” he says. 

“This year, America’s family farmers and ranchers have faced hot, dry weather in much of the country, conditions that have led to severe losses of crops and livestock and put their livelihoods in jeopardy.” Larew also says they welcome the short-term extension of the Livestock Mandatory Program, an important tool for price discovery in livestock markets. 

“LMR ultimately needs to be improved and permanently extended, and we look forward to working with Congress to institute reforms that can help address consolidation in livestock markets.” 

Georgia Representative Sanford Bishop says, “This support is crucial to our farmers, ranchers, and producers for helping them recover from disaster ensures the fruits of their labor can provide affordable, nutritious food, textiles, and other vital materials across the country.” The CR was signed by President Biden.

The Senate and the House passed a Continuing Resolution to fund federal agencies through December 3. The CR provides $10 billion in much-needed disaster relief for losses incurred by farmers and ranchers in 2020 and 2021. It also extends Livestock Mandatory Reporting through December 3 of this year. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says this is good news for family farmers and ranchers. “In addition to keeping federal programs funded, the CR includes critical relief to help farmers and ranchers recover from disasters,” he says. “This year, America’s family farmers and ranchers have faced hot, dry weather in much of the country, conditions that have led to severe losses of crops and livestock and put their livelihoods in jeopardy.” Larew also says they welcome the short-term extension of the Livestock Mandatory Program, an important tool for price discovery in livestock markets. “LMR ultimately needs to be improved and permanently extended, and we look forward to working with Congress to institute reforms that can help address consolidation in livestock markets.” Georgia Representative Sanford Bishop says, “This support is crucial to our farmers, ranchers, and producers for helping them recover from disaster ensures the fruits of their labor can provide affordable, nutritious food, textiles, and other vital materials across the country.” The CR was signed by President Biden.

Continuing Resolution provides much needed disaster assistance for agriculture

USDA's Agricultural Research Service announced Thursday that one of its vaccine candidates can prevent and protect against African swine fever. Specifically, the vaccine shows effectiveness against the current Asian and European strains of the virus. 

The findings also show that a commercial partner can replicate experimental-level results and prevent the spread of the virus. The onset of immunity was revealed in approximately one-third of the swine by the second week post-vaccination, with full protection in all swine achieved by the fourth week. 

The announcement follows a previous announcement this week that USDA is providing $500 million in funding for preparation and prevention regarding African swine fever. To date, ARS has successfully engineered and patented five ASF experimental vaccines and has fully executed seven licenses with pharmaceutical companies to develop the vaccines. 

A commercial vaccine for ASF virus will be an important part of controlling ASF in outbreak areas. All U.S. vaccine candidates have to go through the APHIS regulatory approval process for use in U.S. swine.

USDA's Agricultural Research Service announced Thursday that one of its vaccine candidates can prevent and protect against African swine fever. Specifically, the vaccine shows effectiveness against the current Asian and European strains of the virus. The findings also show that a commercial partner can replicate experimental-level results and prevent the spread of the virus. The onset of immunity was revealed in approximately one-third of the swine by the second week post-vaccination, with full protection in all swine achieved by the fourth week. The announcement follows a previous announcement this week that USDA is providing $500 million in funding for preparation and prevention regarding African swine fever. To date, ARS has successfully engineered and patented five ASF experimental vaccines and has fully executed seven licenses with pharmaceutical companies to develop the vaccines. A commercial vaccine for ASF virus will be an important part of controlling ASF in outbreak areas. All U.S. vaccine candidates have to go through the APHIS regulatory approval process for use in U.S. swine.

USDA announces ASF vaccine candidate

The National Restaurant Association this week sent results from a new survey to Congress, warning provisions of the Build Back Better Act could harm the rebuilding restaurant industry. 

Sean Kennedy of the National Restaurant Association says, while they support parts of the Build Back Better Act, “the legislation is too large and too expensive” for small businesses to take on. 

The national survey of restaurant operators indicated that deteriorating business conditions are impacting operators’ outlook, who believe the recovery from the pandemic will be prolonged well into 2022. 

Further, costs are up as 81 percent of operators report paying more for food, and others report higher labor and occupancy costs, while 85 percent report smaller profit margins than before the pandemic. 

The association opposed several tax changes included in the Build Back Better Act, that significantly increase tax obligations on small business operators. The association also urged Congress to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

The National Restaurant Association this week sent results from a new survey to Congress, warning provisions of the Build Back Better Act could harm the rebuilding restaurant industry. Sean Kennedy of the National Restaurant Association says, while they support parts of the Build Back Better Act, “the legislation is too large and too expensive” for small businesses to take on. The national survey of restaurant operators indicated that deteriorating business conditions are impacting operators’ outlook, who believe the recovery from the pandemic will be prolonged well into 2022. Further, costs are up as 81 percent of operators report paying more for food, and others report higher labor and occupancy costs, while 85 percent report smaller profit margins than before the pandemic. The association opposed several tax changes included in the Build Back Better Act, that significantly increase tax obligations on small business operators. The association also urged Congress to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

Restaurants to Congress: recovery is moving in reverse

A study from USDA's Economic Research Service shows the role meatpacking plants played in the spread of COVID-19. In what ERS describes as a working paper, the study outlined 49 U.S. nonmetro counties in which 20 percent or more of employment is in meatpacking, defined as meatpacking-dependent counties. 

This represents 41 percent of all nonmetro counties with employment in a single manufacturing industry. Meatpacking-dependent counties observed nearly ten times more COVID-19 cases in early May of 2020, compared to other manufacturing-dependent counties. 

By the beginning of July, the difference completely disappeared, driven by a reduction of cases in meatpacking-dependent counties. The study found evidence of large differences between meatpacking communities and a comparison group during the initial industry outbreak, which disappeared after implementing workplace safety precautions. 

While the study cannot verify that the implemented safety precautions were singlehandedly responsible for the change, it provides evidence that improved working conditions reduced COVID-19 spread.

A study from USDA's Economic Research Service shows the role meatpacking plants played in the spread of COVID-19. In what ERS describes as a working paper, the study outlined 49 U.S. nonmetro counties in which 20 percent or more of employment is in meatpacking, defined as meatpacking-dependent counties. This represents 41 percent of all nonmetro counties with employment in a single manufacturing industry. Meatpacking-dependent counties observed nearly ten times more COVID-19 cases in early May of 2020, compared to other manufacturing-dependent counties. By the beginning of July, the difference completely disappeared, driven by a reduction of cases in meatpacking-dependent counties. The study found evidence of large differences between meatpacking communities and a comparison group during the initial industry outbreak, which disappeared after implementing workplace safety precautions. While the study cannot verify that the implemented safety precautions were singlehandedly responsible for the change, it provides evidence that improved working conditions reduced COVID-19 spread.

ERS study shows meatpackers role in COVID spread

A federal judge in Minnesota this month ordered a class-action lawsuit against JBS, Tyson, National Beef, and Cargill to proceed. In the case, National Farmers Union is among the plaintiffs alleging that America’s four largest beef packers conspired to suppress the price of cattle and increase the price of beef. 

NFU President Rob Larew states, “We are pleased the effort to restore pricing transparency and competitiveness to the cattle markets is moving forward in the courtroom.” 

The case now enters the discovery phase of the trial, where evidence and information will be presented to demonstrate how packers violated the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Packers and Stockyards Act, and the Commodity Exchange Act. 

The case alleges malfeasance, which is intentional conduct that is wrongful or unlawful, and calls for pricing transparency and competitiveness in cattle markets. Larew claims the conduct of meatpackers “has been very damaging to independent farmers and ranchers.”

A federal judge in Minnesota this month ordered a class-action lawsuit against JBS, Tyson, National Beef, and Cargill to proceed. In the case, National Farmers Union is among the plaintiffs alleging that America’s four largest beef packers conspired to suppress the price of cattle and increase the price of beef. NFU President Rob Larew states, “We are pleased the effort to restore pricing transparency and competitiveness to the cattle markets is moving forward in the courtroom.” The case now enters the discovery phase of the trial, where evidence and information will be presented to demonstrate how packers violated the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Packers and Stockyards Act, and the Commodity Exchange Act. The case alleges malfeasance, which is intentional conduct that is wrongful or unlawful, and calls for pricing transparency and competitiveness in cattle markets. Larew claims the conduct of meatpackers “has been very damaging to independent farmers and ranchers.”

NFU pleased lawsuit against the “Big 4” packers moving forward

The American Antitrust Institute and Organization for Competitive Markets this week announced a new joint initiative, “Breaking the Market Power Bottleneck in U.S. Beef: A Roadmap for Building an Independent Ranching and Processing Sector.” 

The initiative seeks to promote competition in the U.S. beef supply chain and supports the competition policy initiatives recently introduced by the Department of Agriculture. 

The organizations also urge the Department of Justice and USDA to consider a full complement of policy tools needed to support competition in beef, for the benefit of consumers and producers. 

Between 1980 and 2020, the retail sector’s share of the beef dollar has grown by about 65 percent, while the packer’s share increased by more than 70 percent, according to OCM and AAI. Over the same period, ranchers’ share of the beef dollar dropped by about 40 percent. OCM Executive Director Mike Eby adds, “The strategic expansion of beef processing is a must.”

The American Antitrust Institute and Organization for Competitive Markets this week announced a new joint initiative, “Breaking the Market Power Bottleneck in U.S. Beef: A Roadmap for Building an Independent Ranching and Processing Sector.” The initiative seeks to promote competition in the U.S. beef supply chain and supports the competition policy initiatives recently introduced by the Department of Agriculture. The organizations also urge the Department of Justice and USDA to consider a full complement of policy tools needed to support competition in beef, for the benefit of consumers and producers. Between 1980 and 2020, the retail sector’s share of the beef dollar has grown by about 65 percent, while the packer’s share increased by more than 70 percent, according to OCM and AAI. Over the same period, ranchers’ share of the beef dollar dropped by about 40 percent. OCM Executive Director Mike Eby adds, “The strategic expansion of beef processing is a must.”

Joint initiative seeks to promote competition in the beef supply chain

The Department of Agriculture’s Wednesday investment includes $500 million in USDA Commodity Credit Corporation funds for prevention of and preparation for African swine fever. 

The National Pork Producers Council applauded the funding as President Jen Sorenson says ASF is a serious disease, with serious consequences, adding, “We’re pleased USDA recognizes the severity of this threat.” ASF is not a threat to people but is highly contagious among hogs and has a nearly 100 percent mortality rate. 

ASF was recently detected in the Dominican Republic and Haiti, the first time in 40 years the disease has been in the Western Hemisphere. APHIS immediately took steps to stop the spread of the disease to the U.S. mainland and to the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Since ASF began spreading through Asia in 2018, NPPC has urged Congress and USDA to prepare for the disease, asking for funding and measures to protect the U.S. hog herd.

The Department of Agriculture’s Wednesday investment includes $500 million in USDA Commodity Credit Corporation funds for prevention of and preparation for African swine fever. The National Pork Producers Council applauded the funding as President Jen Sorenson says ASF is a serious disease, with serious consequences, adding, “We’re pleased USDA recognizes the severity of this threat.” ASF is not a threat to people but is highly contagious among hogs and has a nearly 100 percent mortality rate. ASF was recently detected in the Dominican Republic and Haiti, the first time in 40 years the disease has been in the Western Hemisphere. APHIS immediately took steps to stop the spread of the disease to the U.S. mainland and to the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Since ASF began spreading through Asia in 2018, NPPC has urged Congress and USDA to prepare for the disease, asking for funding and measures to protect the U.S. hog herd.

NPPC welcomes USDA investment on ASF prevention

A group of Midwest lawmakers Tuesday urged the Biden administration to increase biofuels usage and reject any reduction in blending requirements. 

After recent reports that the administration may be considering lowering the Renewable Volume Obligations, the group raised serious concerns about the harm a reduction in biofuels usage could cause to the administration's clean energy goals and economic stability of the renewable fuels marketplace. 

The letter states, "We have strong reservations about the potential for the Administration to destroy over five billion gallons of biofuel volume from the 2020, 2021, and 2022 RVOs.” The effort is led by Democrats, including Representatives Cindy Axne of Iowa, Angie Craig of Minnesota, and&nbsp;Cheri Bustos of Illinois and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. 

The letter followed similar comments from Growth Energy and the National Corn Growers Association. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor states, “it is imperative to consider the vital role that environmentally sustainable fuel options such as ethanol will play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

A group of Midwest lawmakers Tuesday urged the Biden administration to increase biofuels usage and reject any reduction in blending requirements. After recent reports that the administration may be considering lowering the Renewable Volume Obligations, the group raised serious concerns about the harm a reduction in biofuels usage could cause to the administration's clean energy goals and economic stability of the renewable fuels marketplace. The letter states, "We have strong reservations about the potential for the Administration to destroy over five billion gallons of biofuel volume from the 2020, 2021, and 2022 RVOs.” The effort is led by Democrats, including Representatives Cindy Axne of Iowa, Angie Craig of Minnesota, and&nbsp;Cheri Bustos of Illinois and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. The letter followed similar comments from Growth Energy and the National Corn Growers Association. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor states, “it is imperative to consider the vital role that environmentally sustainable fuel options such as ethanol will play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

Lawmakers urging administration to increase biofuels usage

The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation this week petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to take their case against California's Proposition 12. The California law would ban the sale of pork from hogs that don't meet the state's "arbitrary" production standards. 

The appeal to the high court comes after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit in July upheld a lower court ruling against the NPPC-AFBF case. 

The appeals court found despite the organizations plausibly alleging that Prop. 12 "will have dramatic upstream effects and require pervasive changes to the pork industry nationwide," 9th Circuit precedent won't allow the case to continue. 

That precedent, however, runs counter to numerous Supreme Court decisions and conflicts with nearly every other federal circuit court. NPPC President Jen Sorenson states, “We're asking the Supreme Court to consider the constitutionality of one state imposing regulations that reach far outside its borders.”

The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation this week petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to take their case against California's Proposition 12. The California law would ban the sale of pork from hogs that don't meet the state's "arbitrary" production standards. The appeal to the high court comes after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit in July upheld a lower court ruling against the NPPC-AFBF case. The appeals court found despite the organizations plausibly alleging that Prop. 12 "will have dramatic upstream effects and require pervasive changes to the pork industry nationwide," 9th Circuit precedent won't allow the case to continue. That precedent, however, runs counter to numerous Supreme Court decisions and conflicts with nearly every other federal circuit court. NPPC President Jen Sorenson states, “We're asking the Supreme Court to consider the constitutionality of one state imposing regulations that reach far outside its borders.”

AFBF, NPPC file Prop. 12 appeal to Supreme Court

Beyond Meat this week announced it is debuting its Beyond Chicken Tenders at select retailers nationwide. 

In addition to the retail rollout of the plant-based chicken tenders, Beyond Meat is also increasing its retail product distribution of other Beyond Meat products at Walmart stores in which Beyond Meat products are currently sold, making this the third such expansion this year alone. 

The company promotes the Beyond Chicken Tenders as a product that contains no GMOs, antibiotics, hormones or cholesterol. The protein in Beyond Chicken Tenders is derived from the faba bean, a nutrient-packed legume crop. 

Its unique qualities, the company says, make it the optimal ingredient for replicating the taste and texture of traditional chicken tenders. The retail rollout of Beyond Chicken Tenders follows the foodservice launch earlier this summer. 

Beyond Chicken Tenders come pre-cooked, ready-to-heat in the air fryer, oven or microwave. Starting in October, shoppers can find Beyond Chicken Tenders in select grocery stores.

Beyond Meat this week announced it is debuting its Beyond Chicken Tenders at select retailers nationwide. In addition to the retail rollout of the plant-based chicken tenders, Beyond Meat is also increasing its retail product distribution of other Beyond Meat products at Walmart stores in which Beyond Meat products are currently sold, making this the third such expansion this year alone. The company promotes the Beyond Chicken Tenders as a product that contains no GMOs, antibiotics, hormones or cholesterol. The protein in Beyond Chicken Tenders is derived from the faba bean, a nutrient-packed legume crop. Its unique qualities, the company says, make it the optimal ingredient for replicating the taste and texture of traditional chicken tenders. The retail rollout of Beyond Chicken Tenders follows the foodservice launch earlier this summer. Beyond Chicken Tenders come pre-cooked, ready-to-heat in the air fryer, oven or microwave. Starting in October, shoppers can find Beyond Chicken Tenders in select grocery stores.

Beyond Meat to offer chicken imitator in grocery stores

Long-time Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley, at 88 years old, will seek reelection in 2022. Grassley is the oldest Republican in the Senate, and if elected, his next term will end when he is 95. 

In announcing his decision, Grassley says, “Iowans have encouraged me to continue my work representing them.” Democrat Abby Finkenauer, a former U.S. Representative from Iowa, is in the race against Grassley. 

Finkenauer stated via Twitter that Grassley "spent 47 years with the DC elite, lining his own pockets," and is "just another DC politician who can’t let go of power and turned his back on families like mine.” 

Grassley’s campaign contends he has consistently been recognized as one of the most bipartisan and effective senators, according to independent analysis conducted by GovTrack and the Lugar Center at Georgetown University.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grassley currently serves as the Senate Finance Committee Chair, and holds a seat on the Senate Agriculture Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632847149156.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa</figcaption>
 </figure>Long-time Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley, at 88 years old, will seek reelection in 2022. Grassley is the oldest Republican in the Senate, and if elected, his next term will end when he is 95. In announcing his decision, Grassley says, “Iowans have encouraged me to continue my work representing them.” Democrat Abby Finkenauer, a former U.S. Representative from Iowa, is in the race against Grassley. Finkenauer stated via Twitter that Grassley "spent 47 years with the DC elite, lining his own pockets," and is "just another DC politician who can’t let go of power and turned his back on families like mine.” Grassley’s campaign contends he has consistently been recognized as one of the most bipartisan and effective senators, according to independent analysis conducted by GovTrack and the Lugar Center at Georgetown University.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grassley currently serves as the Senate Finance Committee Chair, and holds a seat on the Senate Agriculture Committee.

Grassley running for another senate term

It's a busy week in Washington, D.C., with a tight deadline for continuing resolutions and the U.S. debt ceiling, along with a planned infrastructure vote in the House of Representatives. 

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had promised an infrastructure vote by Monday, but told House members late last week the debate would begin early in the week, with a likely vote on Thursday. 

The infrastructure package passed the Senate in August, which will help fund road, bridge, water infrastructure and other projects. 

Pelosi told Reuters over the weekend, “We are now working together with the Senate and the White House on changes to this historic legislation.” 

Pelosi said she would not bring the infrastructure bill to a vote until she was sure it would pass, but expressed confidence about its prospects. Some House Democrats have threatened to vote against the bill, instead favoring the larger $3.5 trillion version of the bill.

It's a busy week in Washington, D.C., with a tight deadline for continuing resolutions and the U.S. debt ceiling, along with a planned infrastructure vote in the House of Representatives. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had promised an infrastructure vote by Monday, but told House members late last week the debate would begin early in the week, with a likely vote on Thursday. The infrastructure package passed the Senate in August, which will help fund road, bridge, water infrastructure and other projects. Pelosi told Reuters over the weekend, “We are now working together with the Senate and the White House on changes to this historic legislation.” Pelosi said she would not bring the infrastructure bill to a vote until she was sure it would pass, but expressed confidence about its prospects. Some House Democrats have threatened to vote against the bill, instead favoring the larger $3.5 trillion version of the bill.

House infrastructure vote likely this week

USDA last Friday released the monthly Cattle on Feed report and the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2021, was 75.4 million head, &nbsp;down four percent from 2020, but up one percent from June 2021. 

Breeding inventory, at 6.19 million head, was down two percent from last year, and down slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 69.2 million head, was down four percent from last year, but up one percent from last quarter. 

Meanwhile, the monthly Cattle on Feed report shows cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.2 million head on September 1, 2021. 

The inventory was one percent below September 1, 2020. This is the second-highest September 1 inventory since the series began in 1996. Placements in feedlots during August totaled 2.10 million head, two percent above 2020.

USDA last Friday released the monthly Cattle on Feed report and the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2021, was 75.4 million head, &nbsp;down four percent from 2020, but up one percent from June 2021. Breeding inventory, at 6.19 million head, was down two percent from last year, and down slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 69.2 million head, was down four percent from last year, but up one percent from last quarter. Meanwhile, the monthly Cattle on Feed report shows cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.2 million head on September 1, 2021. The inventory was one percent below September 1, 2020. This is the second-highest September 1 inventory since the series began in 1996. Placements in feedlots during August totaled 2.10 million head, two percent above 2020.

U.S. hog, cattle on feed inventories decline

A combination of competitive freight prices and market-specific educational efforts from the U.S. Grains Council has led to the first-ever shipment of dried distiller’s grains with solubles arriving in Tunisia. 

The shipment was delivered earlier this month and marked the opening of new opportunities for American growers and shippers to get products into the Mediterranean region. The USGC’s Middle East and Africa Office says the council’s strategy is focusing on marketing the U.S. advantage in Tunisia for corn and corn co-product imports. 

The feed industry in Tunisia is a mature market compared to other neighboring countries, and the Council’s efforts have focused on trade servicing and promoting these products. Bulk carrier rates on several key routes in the region are higher than previous record levels, which means some importers are looking at other options. 

This has boosted container rates in the U.S., with feed grain importers near the Mediterranean Sea and Arab Gulf opting to use containers rather than bulk shipments to reduce feed costs. 

The USGC’s regional office is actively supporting the country’s protein demand growth through promoting U.S. corn and its co-products, organizing events, and hosting industry stakeholders in the United States.

A combination of competitive freight prices and market-specific educational efforts from the U.S. Grains Council has led to the first-ever shipment of dried distiller’s grains with solubles arriving in Tunisia. The shipment was delivered earlier this month and marked the opening of new opportunities for American growers and shippers to get products into the Mediterranean region. The USGC’s Middle East and Africa Office says the council’s strategy is focusing on marketing the U.S. advantage in Tunisia for corn and corn co-product imports. The feed industry in Tunisia is a mature market compared to other neighboring countries, and the Council’s efforts have focused on trade servicing and promoting these products. Bulk carrier rates on several key routes in the region are higher than previous record levels, which means some importers are looking at other options. This has boosted container rates in the U.S., with feed grain importers near the Mediterranean Sea and Arab Gulf opting to use containers rather than bulk shipments to reduce feed costs. The USGC’s regional office is actively supporting the country’s protein demand growth through promoting U.S. corn and its co-products, organizing events, and hosting industry stakeholders in the United States.

First-Ever shipment of U.S. DDGS arrives in Tunisia

Hurricane Ida did more than a half-billion dollars’ worth of damage to Louisiana agriculture. The LSU AgCenter says the Category 4 hurricane’s total damage to Louisiana’s agriculture industry is at least $584 million. Economist Kurt Guidry tells 

The Hill that about half the damage is to the timber industry, the top-grossing ag commodity in the Bayou State. Over 168,000 acres of timberland were affected by the hurricane’s winds, which caused an estimated $300 million in damage. 

The AgCenter report says along with the timber, 35 percent of the damage is estimated to be in infrastructure losses such as equipment. Other commodities like sugarcane, horticulture, and livestock were also affected by Ida. Sugarcane took a 35 million dollar hit, while horticulture also saw approximately $9.5 million in damages. 

Livestock losses are currently low, with only 22 recorded livestock deaths so far. The overall dollar amount in damage also includes estimates for future costs affecting production and reduced crop yields brought on by the storm.

Hurricane Ida did more than a half-billion dollars’ worth of damage to Louisiana agriculture. The LSU AgCenter says the Category 4 hurricane’s total damage to Louisiana’s agriculture industry is at least $584 million. Economist Kurt Guidry tells The Hill that about half the damage is to the timber industry, the top-grossing ag commodity in the Bayou State. Over 168,000 acres of timberland were affected by the hurricane’s winds, which caused an estimated $300 million in damage. The AgCenter report says along with the timber, 35 percent of the damage is estimated to be in infrastructure losses such as equipment. Other commodities like sugarcane, horticulture, and livestock were also affected by Ida. Sugarcane took a 35 million dollar hit, while horticulture also saw approximately $9.5 million in damages. Livestock losses are currently low, with only 22 recorded livestock deaths so far. The overall dollar amount in damage also includes estimates for future costs affecting production and reduced crop yields brought on by the storm.

Hurricane Ida does more than $500 million worth of damage to Louisiana agriculture

The USDA says it will establish an Equity Commission and is looking for nominations for membership on the Commission’s Advisory Committee and Subcommittee on Agriculture. “USDA is committed to advancing equity throughout the Department,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. 

The Equity Commission will advise the Ag Secretary by identifying USDA programs, policies, systems, structures, and practices that contribute to barriers to inclusion or access, systemic discrimination, or exacerbate racial, economic, health, and social disparities. 

The Ag Subcommittee will report back to the Equity Commission and provide recommendations on issues of concern that relate to agriculture. Additional subcommittees will focus on other policy areas, such as rural communities and economic development. The Equity Commission will deliver an interim report and provide actionable recommendations within a year of its formation. 

House Ag Chair David Scott says, “Today’s announcement will remedy inequalities in any program, policy, system, structure, or practices at USDA, and that’s a step in the right direction.” The Georgia Democrat says he’s thankful for the Ag Secretary’s efforts to address any wrongdoing at USDA.

The USDA says it will establish an Equity Commission and is looking for nominations for membership on the Commission’s Advisory Committee and Subcommittee on Agriculture. “USDA is committed to advancing equity throughout the Department,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The Equity Commission will advise the Ag Secretary by identifying USDA programs, policies, systems, structures, and practices that contribute to barriers to inclusion or access, systemic discrimination, or exacerbate racial, economic, health, and social disparities. The Ag Subcommittee will report back to the Equity Commission and provide recommendations on issues of concern that relate to agriculture. Additional subcommittees will focus on other policy areas, such as rural communities and economic development. The Equity Commission will deliver an interim report and provide actionable recommendations within a year of its formation. House Ag Chair David Scott says, “Today’s announcement will remedy inequalities in any program, policy, system, structure, or practices at USDA, and that’s a step in the right direction.” The Georgia Democrat says he’s thankful for the Ag Secretary’s efforts to address any wrongdoing at USDA.

USDA will establish an Equity Commission

The Senate Agriculture Committee Thursday advanced the nomination of Dr. Homer L. Wilkes to be USDA’s undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment. Wilkes currently serves as Director of the Gulf of Mexico Ecosystem Restoration Team. 

He served as acting associate chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service between 2010 and 2012 and has over 40 years of public service experience. 

Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat from Michigan, states, "Wilkes is a dedicated public servant and strong bipartisan choice to lead USDA's efforts to restore and protect the health of our public forests and grasslands." 

Stabenow also noted The Natural Resources and Environment mission area is at the forefront of tackling the climate crisis. Ranking Member John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican, adds, “Wilkes will bring the same qualities and characteristics demonstrated during his long tenure at NRCS to his role as undersecretary, which is exactly what is needed in that role.”

The Senate Agriculture Committee Thursday advanced the nomination of Dr. Homer L. Wilkes to be USDA’s undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment. Wilkes currently serves as Director of the Gulf of Mexico Ecosystem Restoration Team. He served as acting associate chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service between 2010 and 2012 and has over 40 years of public service experience. Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat from Michigan, states, "Wilkes is a dedicated public servant and strong bipartisan choice to lead USDA's efforts to restore and protect the health of our public forests and grasslands." Stabenow also noted The Natural Resources and Environment mission area is at the forefront of tackling the climate crisis. Ranking Member John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican, adds, “Wilkes will bring the same qualities and characteristics demonstrated during his long tenure at NRCS to his role as undersecretary, which is exactly what is needed in that role.”

Senate Ag advances USDA Natural Resources and Environment nominee

National Farmers Union this week announced the Fairness for Farmers campaign as members gathered for a virtual fly-in. The effort seeks to rally Americans to urge lawmakers and the Biden administration to take concrete steps to curtail consolidation in agriculture, which NFU says negatively impacts farmers, ranchers and consumers. 

NFU President Rob Larew states, “We launched Fairness for Farmers because we have a President who is committed to taking on the challenge of fighting consolidation in agriculture.” 

The campaign seeks to encourage farmers and ranchers to share their stories online, engage with media, and build support for lawmakers and regulators to strengthen pro-competition laws and regulations. 

Through the campaign, NFU is calling for Packers and Stockyard Act reform, improved price discovery in beef markets, and reinvigorated antitrust enforcement. Larew added, “I do believe we are in for a fight,” but continues, NFU members are “not afraid of a fight and are ready to stand up for fairness.”

National Farmers Union this week announced the Fairness for Farmers campaign as members gathered for a virtual fly-in. The effort seeks to rally Americans to urge lawmakers and the Biden administration to take concrete steps to curtail consolidation in agriculture, which NFU says negatively impacts farmers, ranchers and consumers. NFU President Rob Larew states, “We launched Fairness for Farmers because we have a President who is committed to taking on the challenge of fighting consolidation in agriculture.” The campaign seeks to encourage farmers and ranchers to share their stories online, engage with media, and build support for lawmakers and regulators to strengthen pro-competition laws and regulations. Through the campaign, NFU is calling for Packers and Stockyard Act reform, improved price discovery in beef markets, and reinvigorated antitrust enforcement. Larew added, “I do believe we are in for a fight,” but continues, NFU members are “not afraid of a fight and are ready to stand up for fairness.”

NFU announces campaign to fight monopolies in agriculture

The Department of Agriculture highlighted investments to end hunger and malnutrition at the United Nations Food Systems Summit this week. 

Speaking of the total $10 billion of investments, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack states, “We must use the power of ingenuity to improve on food systems so they provide safe, nutritious, affordable and accessible food for all." 

USDA also announced the formation of the Coalition of Action on Sustainable Productivity Growth for Food Security and Resource Conservation. This global, multi-sector coalition will accelerate the transition to more sustainable food systems through agricultural productivity growth. 

To help ensure that every child has access to nutritious school meals by 2030, USDA is leading U.S. participation in the coalition on School Meals, which supports comprehensive and effective school feeding programs worldwide. 

The United States, led by USDA, is also supporting the global Food is Never Waste Coalition, and reaffirming its commitment to reducing food loss and waste domestically.

The Department of Agriculture highlighted investments to end hunger and malnutrition at the United Nations Food Systems Summit this week. Speaking of the total $10 billion of investments, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack states, “We must use the power of ingenuity to improve on food systems so they provide safe, nutritious, affordable and accessible food for all." USDA also announced the formation of the Coalition of Action on Sustainable Productivity Growth for Food Security and Resource Conservation. This global, multi-sector coalition will accelerate the transition to more sustainable food systems through agricultural productivity growth. To help ensure that every child has access to nutritious school meals by 2030, USDA is leading U.S. participation in the coalition on School Meals, which supports comprehensive and effective school feeding programs worldwide. The United States, led by USDA, is also supporting the global Food is Never Waste Coalition, and reaffirming its commitment to reducing food loss and waste domestically.

USDA takes steps to build more sustainable, resilient and inclusive food systems

A new report from Reuters claims the Environmental Protection Agency will propose cuts to blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard. A document seen by Reuters reporters contained proposed cuts that would reduce blending mandates for 2020 to about 17.1 billion gallons and 18.6 billion gallons for 2021. 

Those levels are significantly lower than the 20.1 billion gallons finalized for 2020 before the pandemic. EPA is setting the 2020 and 2021 mandates retroactively and would set 2022 at about 20.8 billion gallons. 

Reuters suspects ethanol would take the biggest hit, dropping from 15 billion gallons to about 12.5 billion gallons in 2020, 13.5 billion in 2021, and 14.1 in 2022. 

However, the proposals, sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget last month, are not final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa told reporters Tuesday he expects EPA to release the proposal at the end of this week, possibly late Friday.

A new report from Reuters claims the Environmental Protection Agency will propose cuts to blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard. A document seen by Reuters reporters contained proposed cuts that would reduce blending mandates for 2020 to about 17.1 billion gallons and 18.6 billion gallons for 2021. Those levels are significantly lower than the 20.1 billion gallons finalized for 2020 before the pandemic. EPA is setting the 2020 and 2021 mandates retroactively and would set 2022 at about 20.8 billion gallons. Reuters suspects ethanol would take the biggest hit, dropping from 15 billion gallons to about 12.5 billion gallons in 2020, 13.5 billion in 2021, and 14.1 in 2022. However, the proposals, sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget last month, are not final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa told reporters Tuesday he expects EPA to release the proposal at the end of this week, possibly late Friday.

Report: EPA proposing cuts to biofuel blending requirements

The Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service calls the discovery of African swine fever in Haiti unfortunate, but not unexpected. Monday, a case of ASF was reported to the World Organization for Animal Health after confirmed by USDA's Plum Island, New York, facility. 

The sample was collected from a pig in a province bordering the Dominican Republic, where ASF was discovered this summer. In a statement, APHIS said it has numerous interlocking safeguards in place to prevent ASF from entering the United States. 

Pork and pork products from Haiti and the Dominican Republic are prohibited entry to the United States because of existing classical swine fever restrictions. 

After ASF was detected in the Dominican Republic, APHIS increased surveillance and safeguards in U.S. territories.&nbsp;&nbsp;APHIS continues to work with partners, including the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. swine industry, to prevent ASF from entering the United States.

The Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service calls the discovery of African swine fever in Haiti unfortunate, but not unexpected. Monday, a case of ASF was reported to the World Organization for Animal Health after confirmed by USDA's Plum Island, New York, facility. The sample was collected from a pig in a province bordering the Dominican Republic, where ASF was discovered this summer. In a statement, APHIS said it has numerous interlocking safeguards in place to prevent ASF from entering the United States. Pork and pork products from Haiti and the Dominican Republic are prohibited entry to the United States because of existing classical swine fever restrictions. After ASF was detected in the Dominican Republic, APHIS increased surveillance and safeguards in U.S. territories.&nbsp;&nbsp;APHIS continues to work with partners, including the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. swine industry, to prevent ASF from entering the United States.

USDA statement on ASF in Haiti

House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro this week introduced the Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act. The Connecticut Democrat says the legislation will increase and improve the Department of Agriculture’s procurement of fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The bill would require USDA to partner with growers, distributors, and food hubs to provide fresh, U.S.-grown fruits and vegetables to community organizations like schools, food pantries, and youth organizations while prioritizing socially disadvantaged farmers and entities and regional food inequities. 

The United Fresh Produce Association welcomed the legislation. United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel states, “This is a monumental step in the right direction in addressing nutrition insecurity and access for the nine out of ten Americans who struggle to meet Dietary Guidelines’ fruit and vegetable recommendations.” 

Late last year, United Fresh convened a working group to embark on a months-long project of providing recommendations on how to reform purchasing practices to be more inclusive of fresh produce.

House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro this week introduced the Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act. The Connecticut Democrat says the legislation will increase and improve the Department of Agriculture’s procurement of fresh fruits and vegetables. The bill would require USDA to partner with growers, distributors, and food hubs to provide fresh, U.S.-grown fruits and vegetables to community organizations like schools, food pantries, and youth organizations while prioritizing socially disadvantaged farmers and entities and regional food inequities. The United Fresh Produce Association welcomed the legislation. United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel states, “This is a monumental step in the right direction in addressing nutrition insecurity and access for the nine out of ten Americans who struggle to meet Dietary Guidelines’ fruit and vegetable recommendations.” Late last year, United Fresh convened a working group to embark on a months-long project of providing recommendations on how to reform purchasing practices to be more inclusive of fresh produce.

DeLauro introduces Fresh Produce Procurement Reform Act

Growth Energy members call on President Joe Biden to stand behind his promise to take clear action on climate change by supporting low-carbon biofuels and upholding the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

During a virtual fly-in this week, 87 Growth Energy members sent a letter to President Biden outlining their take on the issue. The letter states, “If we are to achieve net-zero by 2050, we must use all tools in the toolbox – including biofuels.” 

The Growth Energy members point out that fuels like ethanol reduce carbon emissions by 46 percent over their full lifecycle. As for the Renewable Fuel Standard, the group says fossil fuel advocates continue to demand that EPA adopt Renewable Volume Obligations that fall far short of the President’s commitment to uphold the RFS. 

To help reduce carbon emissions and reach Biden's transportation decarbonization goals, the letter adds, "it is vital that conventional biofuel blending targets meet the15-billion-gallon minimum required by law."

Growth Energy members call on President Joe Biden to stand behind his promise to take clear action on climate change by supporting low-carbon biofuels and upholding the Renewable Fuel Standard. During a virtual fly-in this week, 87 Growth Energy members sent a letter to President Biden outlining their take on the issue. The letter states, “If we are to achieve net-zero by 2050, we must use all tools in the toolbox – including biofuels.” The Growth Energy members point out that fuels like ethanol reduce carbon emissions by 46 percent over their full lifecycle. As for the Renewable Fuel Standard, the group says fossil fuel advocates continue to demand that EPA adopt Renewable Volume Obligations that fall far short of the President’s commitment to uphold the RFS. To help reduce carbon emissions and reach Biden's transportation decarbonization goals, the letter adds, "it is vital that conventional biofuel blending targets meet the15-billion-gallon minimum required by law."

Growth Energy urges President Biden to uphold clean energy commitments

The World Organization for Animal Health this week confirmed finding African swine fever in Haiti. Haiti borders the Dominican Republic, which confirmed the virus was in-country this summer. 

The farm in Haiti with confirmed African swine fever is near the border. Haiti is conducting surveillance for the disease in pigs and imposed a quarantine to control the outbreak, according to Reuters. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture found the disease last week through testing at the Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory on Plum Island, New York. USDA confirmed ASF in the Dominican Republic in July and issued a warning that Haiti was at high risk for infections. 

Meanwhile, last week, USDA issued a Federal Order suspending interstate movement of all live swine and swine products from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to the mainland United States. African swine fever poses no health risks to humans but is deadly in pigs.

The World Organization for Animal Health this week confirmed finding African swine fever in Haiti. Haiti borders the Dominican Republic, which confirmed the virus was in-country this summer. The farm in Haiti with confirmed African swine fever is near the border. Haiti is conducting surveillance for the disease in pigs and imposed a quarantine to control the outbreak, according to Reuters. The U.S. Department of Agriculture found the disease last week through testing at the Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory on Plum Island, New York. USDA confirmed ASF in the Dominican Republic in July and issued a warning that Haiti was at high risk for infections. Meanwhile, last week, USDA issued a Federal Order suspending interstate movement of all live swine and swine products from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to the mainland United States. African swine fever poses no health risks to humans but is deadly in pigs.

African Swine Fever confirmed in Haiti

United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai this week met virtually with United Kingdom Secretary of State for International Trade Anne-Marie Trevelyan. Ambassador Tai emphasized her commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment ties between the U.S. and the United Kingdom. 

The USTR office says Tai discussed USTR’s ongoing review of the U.S. – U.K. free trade agreement negotiations to evaluate how a potential agreement could support the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader Build Back Better agenda. 

Ambassador Tai and Trevelyan discussed the upcoming G7 trade ministerial. Back in March, the Biden Administration suspended some tariffs on goods from the United Kingdom. 

No longer a member of the European Union, the United Kingdom said in December that it will suspend tariffs on the U.S. tied to the World Trade Organization ruling against Boeing Airline subsidies. It was a move that trade experts say was a sign that the British government is hoping to resume negotiations with the United States.

United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai this week met virtually with United Kingdom Secretary of State for International Trade Anne-Marie Trevelyan. Ambassador Tai emphasized her commitment to deepening bilateral trade and investment ties between the U.S. and the United Kingdom. The USTR office says Tai discussed USTR’s ongoing review of the U.S. – U.K. free trade agreement negotiations to evaluate how a potential agreement could support the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader Build Back Better agenda. Ambassador Tai and Trevelyan discussed the upcoming G7 trade ministerial. Back in March, the Biden Administration suspended some tariffs on goods from the United Kingdom. No longer a member of the European Union, the United Kingdom said in December that it will suspend tariffs on the U.S. tied to the World Trade Organization ruling against Boeing Airline subsidies. It was a move that trade experts say was a sign that the British government is hoping to resume negotiations with the United States.