Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency went to work early in 2021 on addressing supply chain disruptions the ag sector experienced during the pandemic. 

He identified a wide range of improvements, which produced a more diversified food system that serves farmers, ranchers, and consumers. “The COVID-19 outbreak has been tragic and heartbreaking for our communities and families, but the disruptions it allowed us an opportunity to identify and address vulnerable spots in our food system,” he says. “Those disruptions to the agricultural sector highlighted the need for our nation’s food system to be more diversified, thereby creating more options for producers and consumers while enhancing the resiliency of our food sector.” 

Vilsack highlighted several USDA steps, including providing $1 billion in American Rescue Plan funds for expanding independent processing capacity in the U.S. Also, $32 million in grants will help 167 meat and poultry processing facilities reach more customers by becoming federally inspected.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency went to work early in 2021 on addressing supply chain disruptions the ag sector experienced during the pandemic. He identified a wide range of improvements, which produced a more diversified food system that serves farmers, ranchers, and consumers. “The COVID-19 outbreak has been tragic and heartbreaking for our communities and families, but the disruptions it allowed us an opportunity to identify and address vulnerable spots in our food system,” he says. “Those disruptions to the agricultural sector highlighted the need for our nation’s food system to be more diversified, thereby creating more options for producers and consumers while enhancing the resiliency of our food sector.” Vilsack highlighted several USDA steps, including providing $1 billion in American Rescue Plan funds for expanding independent processing capacity in the U.S. Also, $32 million in grants will help 167 meat and poultry processing facilities reach more customers by becoming federally inspected.

Vilsack Highlights USDA’s Market Development Efforts

Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from key trading partners cost agriculture a lot of export sales. 

Combine that with the Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports and China’s retaliatory actions, and it led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019. Six trading partners, including Canada, China, the European Union, India, Mexico, and Turkey all responded to the U.S. tariffs by implementing retaliatory duties on America’s agricultural and food exports. 

A summary of a report from the Economic Research Service says state-level losses were largely focused in the Midwest, with Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas accounting for roughly 11 percent, 11 percent, and seven percent, respectively, of all losses. Soybeans accounted for the largest share of the total losses at 71 percent, followed by sorghum and pork. Brazil gained most of the lost U.S. soybean trade.

Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from key trading partners cost agriculture a lot of export sales. Combine that with the Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports and China’s retaliatory actions, and it led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019. Six trading partners, including Canada, China, the European Union, India, Mexico, and Turkey all responded to the U.S. tariffs by implementing retaliatory duties on America’s agricultural and food exports. A summary of a report from the Economic Research Service says state-level losses were largely focused in the Midwest, with Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas accounting for roughly 11 percent, 11 percent, and seven percent, respectively, of all losses. Soybeans accounted for the largest share of the total losses at 71 percent, followed by sorghum and pork. Brazil gained most of the lost U.S. soybean trade.

Trade War Retaliation Cost Agriculture $27 Billion in Exports

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seized and destroyed more than 1,900 pounds of prohibited pork, poultry, and ruminant products from New York City-area retailers. 

APHIS says the items came from China, lacked the required import permits and health certificates, and therefore are considered a risk for introducing invasive plant and animal pests and diseases into the U.S. The contraband was seized over the course of October through December. The agency is concerned about these prohibited products because China is a country affected by African Swine Fever, Classical Swine Fever, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, as well as several other problems. 

ASF is the biggest concern as the disease has spread through China and much of Asia, as well as within parts of the European Union. In recent months, ASF was confirmed in pigs in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. ASF doesn’t affect humans but is a deadly disease that decimated China’s hog industry.

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seized and destroyed more than 1,900 pounds of prohibited pork, poultry, and ruminant products from New York City-area retailers. APHIS says the items came from China, lacked the required import permits and health certificates, and therefore are considered a risk for introducing invasive plant and animal pests and diseases into the U.S. The contraband was seized over the course of October through December. The agency is concerned about these prohibited products because China is a country affected by African Swine Fever, Classical Swine Fever, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, as well as several other problems. ASF is the biggest concern as the disease has spread through China and much of Asia, as well as within parts of the European Union. In recent months, ASF was confirmed in pigs in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. ASF doesn’t affect humans but is a deadly disease that decimated China’s hog industry.

USDA Seizes Illegally Imported Animal Products from China

The Environmental Protection Agency is reversing decades of practice in an attempt to further the Agency’s compliance with the Endangered Species Act when evaluating new pesticides and ingredients. 

In the new policy, EPA will evaluate the potential effects of each new active ingredient on federally threatened or endangered species and their designated critical habitats before the agency will register a new AI. EPA will also initiate Endangered Species consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service. The EPA typically didn’t assess the potential effects of conventional pesticides on listed species when registering new AIs. 

EPA says that typically resulted in not enough protection and resource-intensive litigation. The agency says its new policy should reduce these kinds of court cases and improve the legal defensibility of newly-approved active ingredients. Michael Freedhoff of the EPA says his agency is taking a “critical step” to register new pesticides in a way that prioritizes protection.

The Environmental Protection Agency is reversing decades of practice in an attempt to further the Agency’s compliance with the Endangered Species Act when evaluating new pesticides and ingredients. In the new policy, EPA will evaluate the potential effects of each new active ingredient on federally threatened or endangered species and their designated critical habitats before the agency will register a new AI. EPA will also initiate Endangered Species consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service. The EPA typically didn’t assess the potential effects of conventional pesticides on listed species when registering new AIs. EPA says that typically resulted in not enough protection and resource-intensive litigation. The agency says its new policy should reduce these kinds of court cases and improve the legal defensibility of newly-approved active ingredients. Michael Freedhoff of the EPA says his agency is taking a “critical step” to register new pesticides in a way that prioritizes protection.

New EPA Pesticide Policy May Limit New Chemistries

The Supreme Court handed down a ruling last week on mandatory COVID-19 vaccines in large workplaces. 

The court says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration doesn’t have the authority from Congress to impose a vaccine mandate on larger employers. The Hagstrom Report says several agricultural and food groups issued reactions to the court’s decision. 

The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives says, “The action shows that OSHA needs to consider other alternatives to encourage vaccinations for workers across the country. NCFC has consistently said that forcing difficult testing and enforcement actions on employers would not help achieve that goal and would likely magnify the labor shortages being experienced across the agriculture and food supply chain.” 

The National Grocers Association says the ruling “takes some pressure off independent community grocers who already face staffing shortages during a nationwide labor crisis.” Greg Ferrara, the NGA CEO, says grocers remain focused on doing what they do best, providing their communities with food.”

The Supreme Court handed down a ruling last week on mandatory COVID-19 vaccines in large workplaces. The court says the Occupational Safety and Health Administration doesn’t have the authority from Congress to impose a vaccine mandate on larger employers. The Hagstrom Report says several agricultural and food groups issued reactions to the court’s decision. The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives says, “The action shows that OSHA needs to consider other alternatives to encourage vaccinations for workers across the country. NCFC has consistently said that forcing difficult testing and enforcement actions on employers would not help achieve that goal and would likely magnify the labor shortages being experienced across the agriculture and food supply chain.” The National Grocers Association says the ruling “takes some pressure off independent community grocers who already face staffing shortages during a nationwide labor crisis.” Greg Ferrara, the NGA CEO, says grocers remain focused on doing what they do best, providing their communities with food.”

Groups React to Supreme Court Decision on Vaccines

Growth Energy Wednesday released an outline of the organization's 2022 top federal priorities for the U.S. biofuel industry.

 Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says of the policy objectives, “If we want to decarbonize the transportation sector, we must use all the tools in the toolbox – including plant-based biofuels like ethanol, which reduce carbon emissions by 46 percent compared to gasoline.” 

Specifically, Skor highlighted the association’s key priorities, focusing on opportunities for regulators and policymakers to promote cleaner fuel choices, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the environment. The objectives incorporate restoring certainty to the Renewable Fuels Standard, including finalizing strong Renewable Volume Obligations for 2021 and 2022, rejecting improper and illegal retroactive cuts to the already finalized 2020 RVOs and rejecting all pending and improperly granted small refinery exemptions.

 Other priorities for Growth Energy include eliminating barriers to higher blends of low-carbon ethanol, and utilizing biofuels as a low-cost pathway to achieve climate goals.

Growth Energy Wednesday released an outline of the organization's 2022 top federal priorities for the U.S. biofuel industry. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says of the policy objectives, “If we want to decarbonize the transportation sector, we must use all the tools in the toolbox – including plant-based biofuels like ethanol, which reduce carbon emissions by 46 percent compared to gasoline.” Specifically, Skor highlighted the association’s key priorities, focusing on opportunities for regulators and policymakers to promote cleaner fuel choices, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the environment. The objectives incorporate restoring certainty to the Renewable Fuels Standard, including finalizing strong Renewable Volume Obligations for 2021 and 2022, rejecting improper and illegal retroactive cuts to the already finalized 2020 RVOs and rejecting all pending and improperly granted small refinery exemptions. Other priorities for Growth Energy include eliminating barriers to higher blends of low-carbon ethanol, and utilizing biofuels as a low-cost pathway to achieve climate goals.

Growth Energy announces 2022 Policy Priorities

Smaller sized loans limited agricultural lending activity at the end of 2021. 

The Survey of Terms of Lending to Farmers shows non-real estate agricultural loans at commercial banks decreased by 13 percent in the fourth quarter, and the yearly average was the lowest since 2012. The Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank released the data Wednesday and says the decline was driven by a sharp drop in operating loans and lending at banks with the largest farm loan portfolios. 

Despite an increase in the number of all types of loans, the average size of all non-real estate and operating loans was more than 20 percent and 30 percent less than a year ago, respectively. Despite intensifying concerns about rising input costs impacting producer returns, commodity prices remained elevated and supported profit opportunities through the end of the year. 

Higher costs are likely to put upward pressure on demand for credit, but strong farm income and working capital could also supplement financing for some borrowers.

Smaller sized loans limited agricultural lending activity at the end of 2021. The Survey of Terms of Lending to Farmers shows non-real estate agricultural loans at commercial banks decreased by 13 percent in the fourth quarter, and the yearly average was the lowest since 2012. The Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank released the data Wednesday and says the decline was driven by a sharp drop in operating loans and lending at banks with the largest farm loan portfolios. Despite an increase in the number of all types of loans, the average size of all non-real estate and operating loans was more than 20 percent and 30 percent less than a year ago, respectively. Despite intensifying concerns about rising input costs impacting producer returns, commodity prices remained elevated and supported profit opportunities through the end of the year. Higher costs are likely to put upward pressure on demand for credit, but strong farm income and working capital could also supplement financing for some borrowers.

Smaller loans limit Agricultural Lending

Increased acreage and higher yields for corn and soybeans led to record high soybean production and near-record high corn production, according to the 2021 Crop Production Annual Summary. 

U.S. corn growers produced 15.1 billion bushels, up seven percent from 2020 and the second-highest on record. Corn yield in the United States is estimated at a record high 177.0 bushels per acre, 5.6 bushels above the 2020 yield. Area harvested for grain, at 85.4 million acres, is up four percent from 2020. 

Soybean production for 2021 totaled a record-high 4.44 billion bushels, up five percent from 2020. With record-high yields in 21 states, the average soybean yield is estimated at 51.4 bushels per acre, the second-highest on record. 

For 2021, all cotton production is up 21 percent from 2020, at 17.6 million 480-pound bales. The U.S. yield is estimated at 849 pounds per acre, up two pounds from last year’s yield.

Increased acreage and higher yields for corn and soybeans led to record high soybean production and near-record high corn production, according to the 2021 Crop Production Annual Summary. U.S. corn growers produced 15.1 billion bushels, up seven percent from 2020 and the second-highest on record. Corn yield in the United States is estimated at a record high 177.0 bushels per acre, 5.6 bushels above the 2020 yield. Area harvested for grain, at 85.4 million acres, is up four percent from 2020. Soybean production for 2021 totaled a record-high 4.44 billion bushels, up five percent from 2020. With record-high yields in 21 states, the average soybean yield is estimated at 51.4 bushels per acre, the second-highest on record. For 2021, all cotton production is up 21 percent from 2020, at 17.6 million 480-pound bales. The U.S. yield is estimated at 849 pounds per acre, up two pounds from last year’s yield.

USDA: Corn and soybean production up in 2021

CropLife America joined more than 350 organizations engaged with pesticide products in a letter sent to Congress affirming their support for the current pesticide regulatory system. 

The letter is in response to legislation that would undermine the science-based standards in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. “This legislation undermines the work of the EPA’s career scientists in the evaluation of pesticide registration and use,” says Chris Novak, president and CEO of CLA. “The evaluation of each pesticide requires EPA scientists to review hundreds of studies to determine whether a pesticide can get safely used.” 

The groups point out in the letter that the proposed legislation would jeopardize the availability of pesticide products by imposing an unscientific process that could remove pest-control options from the market. Congress amended FIFRA several times to strengthen the regulatory standard for safety, most recently through the Food Quality Protection Act that added specific protections for infants and children.

CropLife America joined more than 350 organizations engaged with pesticide products in a letter sent to Congress affirming their support for the current pesticide regulatory system. The letter is in response to legislation that would undermine the science-based standards in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. “This legislation undermines the work of the EPA’s career scientists in the evaluation of pesticide registration and use,” says Chris Novak, president and CEO of CLA. “The evaluation of each pesticide requires EPA scientists to review hundreds of studies to determine whether a pesticide can get safely used.” The groups point out in the letter that the proposed legislation would jeopardize the availability of pesticide products by imposing an unscientific process that could remove pest-control options from the market. Congress amended FIFRA several times to strengthen the regulatory standard for safety, most recently through the Food Quality Protection Act that added specific protections for infants and children.

Groups voice support for existing Pesticide Law

The National Pork Producers applaud the U.S. and Indian government’s announcement that U.S. pork exports are on their way into India, the world’s second-most populated country. 

“After decades of work, a market that had been closed to U.S. pork is getting opened,” says NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “We look forward to the new access.” 

India has a population of 1.26 billion people, which means the potential market opportunity is a significant one. U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says his group has many industry contacts in India that are excited for the opportunity to bring in U.S. pork. 

“While the volume going into India right now is small, USMEF sees long-term potential in the retail, processing, and foodservice sectors.” USMEF also sees emerging opportunities in e-commerce. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says, “India’s agreement to allow U.S. pork imports is great news and a significant development for American producers and Indian consumers.”

The National Pork Producers applaud the U.S. and Indian government’s announcement that U.S. pork exports are on their way into India, the world’s second-most populated country. “After decades of work, a market that had been closed to U.S. pork is getting opened,” says NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “We look forward to the new access.” India has a population of 1.26 billion people, which means the potential market opportunity is a significant one. U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says his group has many industry contacts in India that are excited for the opportunity to bring in U.S. pork. “While the volume going into India right now is small, USMEF sees long-term potential in the retail, processing, and foodservice sectors.” USMEF also sees emerging opportunities in e-commerce. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says, “India’s agreement to allow U.S. pork imports is great news and a significant development for American producers and Indian consumers.”

India opening to U.S. Pork

President Biden and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack tried to reassure American Farm Bureau members that the administration has their back. 

The Hagstrom Report says that, in a short video, the president assured the mostly Republican-leaning members that America needs farmers “three times a day.” Biden also pointed out that farmers deserve affordable inputs and the right to repair their equipment. 

Secretary Vilsack says that while ag exports have grown, challenges remain. Vilsack says that support for trade among Americans needs to get restored, adding that, “We’re going to enforce the agreements that we have. That’s the first step in rebuilding trust.” Exports to China have grown, but he says the Asian nation is “$16 billion light” under their commitment to making purchases. 

Vilsack also told the Farm Bureau convention that he was pleased by a USMCA trade panel that concluded Mexico was not living up to the dairy provisions. &nbsp;

President Biden and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack tried to reassure American Farm Bureau members that the administration has their back. The Hagstrom Report says that, in a short video, the president assured the mostly Republican-leaning members that America needs farmers “three times a day.” Biden also pointed out that farmers deserve affordable inputs and the right to repair their equipment. Secretary Vilsack says that while ag exports have grown, challenges remain. Vilsack says that support for trade among Americans needs to get restored, adding that, “We’re going to enforce the agreements that we have. That’s the first step in rebuilding trust.” Exports to China have grown, but he says the Asian nation is “$16 billion light” under their commitment to making purchases. Vilsack also told the Farm Bureau convention that he was pleased by a USMCA trade panel that concluded Mexico was not living up to the dairy provisions. &nbsp;

Biden, Vilsack reassure Farm Bureau members

American Farm Bureau successfully campaigned last year against changes to the stepped-up basis provision in estate tax law. 

Now, Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall asked members to put that same energy level into the Biden administration’s proposed changes to the Trump Waters of the United States rule. 

The administration wants to go back to an earlier rule that Farm Bureau says will bring the heavy hand of the federal government onto farmers’ lands. 

“We need that same energy and passion when it comes to WOTUS,” Duvall said during an address at the group’s annual convention.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is critical that this administration understands that we shouldn’t need a team of lawyers and consultants just to farm our land.” 

Courtney Briggs, a senior director of congressional relations, says, “Farm Bureau liked the Trump rule because it created a clear line between what’s in and what’s out.” Members are urged to send comments to the EPA before February 6.

American Farm Bureau successfully campaigned last year against changes to the stepped-up basis provision in estate tax law. Now, Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall asked members to put that same energy level into the Biden administration’s proposed changes to the Trump Waters of the United States rule. The administration wants to go back to an earlier rule that Farm Bureau says will bring the heavy hand of the federal government onto farmers’ lands. “We need that same energy and passion when it comes to WOTUS,” Duvall said during an address at the group’s annual convention.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is critical that this administration understands that we shouldn’t need a team of lawyers and consultants just to farm our land.” Courtney Briggs, a senior director of congressional relations, says, “Farm Bureau liked the Trump rule because it created a clear line between what’s in and what’s out.” Members are urged to send comments to the EPA before February 6.

Farm Bureau campaigning against WOTUS changes

Meat companies and union officials tell Reuters that rising COVID-19 infections among workers are forcing meat plants to slow production and the government to replace slaughter inspectors. 

Meatpacking was an early epicenter of COVID in 2020 and is now the latest sector to be disrupted by the Omicron variant. Cargill, one of the country’s top beef producers, operated a few of its plants at a lower slaughter capacity last week. 

A Cargill plant in Dodge City, Kansas, was getting by with a skeleton crew at one point. Less slaughter capacity means a smaller beef supply is available despite booming demand for the product. 

Farmers also have to keep cattle longer in feed yards or on ranches. USDA estimates beef producers killed 112,000 cattle last Friday, down six percent from 2021 and matching January third levels that were the lowest since October. Pig slaughter was down about five percent from last year on Friday as well.

Meat companies and union officials tell Reuters that rising COVID-19 infections among workers are forcing meat plants to slow production and the government to replace slaughter inspectors. Meatpacking was an early epicenter of COVID in 2020 and is now the latest sector to be disrupted by the Omicron variant. Cargill, one of the country’s top beef producers, operated a few of its plants at a lower slaughter capacity last week. A Cargill plant in Dodge City, Kansas, was getting by with a skeleton crew at one point. Less slaughter capacity means a smaller beef supply is available despite booming demand for the product. Farmers also have to keep cattle longer in feed yards or on ranches. USDA estimates beef producers killed 112,000 cattle last Friday, down six percent from 2021 and matching January third levels that were the lowest since October. Pig slaughter was down about five percent from last year on Friday as well.

U.S. meat production slowing

A group of environmental organizations led by the Center for Food Safety and the Center for Biological Diversity wants new life given to their lawsuit over dicamba registrations. 

DTN says the groups are asking a federal court to lift a stay and speed up their lawsuit demanding that the Environmental Protection Agency vacate the 2020 dicamba registrations of Engenia, Tavium, and XtendiMax. 

The groups filed a motion in U.S. District Court while showing a new report from the EPA that they say details continuing widespread alleged dicamba damage in 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

George Kimbrell, legal director at the Center for Food Safety, says EPA is content to sit on smoking gun evidence that it was wrong to re-register dicamba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Our farmers and the environment can’t wait through more delays, so we’re asking the court to allow our lawsuit to proceed so we can do the EPA’s job of ensuring over-the-top dicamba use doesn’t harm agriculture or the environment,” he says.

A group of environmental organizations led by the Center for Food Safety and the Center for Biological Diversity wants new life given to their lawsuit over dicamba registrations. DTN says the groups are asking a federal court to lift a stay and speed up their lawsuit demanding that the Environmental Protection Agency vacate the 2020 dicamba registrations of Engenia, Tavium, and XtendiMax. The groups filed a motion in U.S. District Court while showing a new report from the EPA that they say details continuing widespread alleged dicamba damage in 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;George Kimbrell, legal director at the Center for Food Safety, says EPA is content to sit on smoking gun evidence that it was wrong to re-register dicamba.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Our farmers and the environment can’t wait through more delays, so we’re asking the court to allow our lawsuit to proceed so we can do the EPA’s job of ensuring over-the-top dicamba use doesn’t harm agriculture or the environment,” he says.

Groups want Dicamba lawsuit revived

The value of U.S. beef exports set another record in November, topping $1 billion for the second time in 2021. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says November pork exports were lower than the previous year, but year-to-date export value maintained a record value pace. 

November beef exports totaled over 123,600 metric tons, up seven percent from 2020 and the fourth-largest monthly volume in the post-BSE era. 

The value was $1.05 billion, 49 percent higher year-over-year. Year-to-date exports through November were on a record volume pace at 1.32 million metric tons. Pork exports were over 237,500 metric tons, down eight percent from last year and a six percent reduction in value at $658 million. 

Through November, pork export volume fell slightly below the record pace of 2020 at 2.71 million metric tons. The value of pork exports through November reached $7.5 billion, nearing the annual record of $7.71 billion set in 2020.

The value of U.S. beef exports set another record in November, topping $1 billion for the second time in 2021. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says November pork exports were lower than the previous year, but year-to-date export value maintained a record value pace. November beef exports totaled over 123,600 metric tons, up seven percent from 2020 and the fourth-largest monthly volume in the post-BSE era. The value was $1.05 billion, 49 percent higher year-over-year. Year-to-date exports through November were on a record volume pace at 1.32 million metric tons. Pork exports were over 237,500 metric tons, down eight percent from last year and a six percent reduction in value at $658 million. Through November, pork export volume fell slightly below the record pace of 2020 at 2.71 million metric tons. The value of pork exports through November reached $7.5 billion, nearing the annual record of $7.71 billion set in 2020.

November beef exports set new value record

Brazilian soybean crop estimates dropped sharply last week because of weather concerns. A mix of conditions that are too dry in some areas and too wet in others means the Brazil crop will no longer be a record-setter. 

Successful Farming says the crop should come in around 133.4 million metric tons, down from a previous forecast at 144.7 million metric tons. 

Rio Grande do Sul, the third-largest bean producer in Brazil, recently saw nine out of the ten hottest temps in the country during the previous week. The top temperature was 102.2 degrees. 

About 15 percent of the soybeans are blooming going into the key crop development period in January and February.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Parana, the second-largest producing state in the country, only half of the crop is pod-filling and big losses are ahead. 

USDA expects Brazil to produce 144 million metric tons of soybeans, but that estimate came from the December WASDE report.

Brazilian soybean crop estimates dropped sharply last week because of weather concerns. A mix of conditions that are too dry in some areas and too wet in others means the Brazil crop will no longer be a record-setter. Successful Farming says the crop should come in around 133.4 million metric tons, down from a previous forecast at 144.7 million metric tons. Rio Grande do Sul, the third-largest bean producer in Brazil, recently saw nine out of the ten hottest temps in the country during the previous week. The top temperature was 102.2 degrees. About 15 percent of the soybeans are blooming going into the key crop development period in January and February.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Parana, the second-largest producing state in the country, only half of the crop is pod-filling and big losses are ahead. USDA expects Brazil to produce 144 million metric tons of soybeans, but that estimate came from the December WASDE report.

Brazil soybeans estimates drop

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the agency made an adjustment in school meal reimbursements to help schools continue to serve children healthy meals. 

The move will add an estimated $750 million more into school meal programs across the nation. The goal is to make sure that federal reimbursements keep pace with food and operational costs, while ensuring children can continue to get healthy meals at school. 

“USDA understands that balancing the pressures of COVID-19 with the need to feed children nutritious meals continue to be a priority for schools across the country,” Vilsack says. School lunch reimbursement rates don’t typically increase during the school year. 

However, because of COVID, USDA allowed schools to benefit from the highest rates available, which are typically reserved for USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. The adjustment will help ensure that the purchasing power of schools can keep pace with the cost of living.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the agency made an adjustment in school meal reimbursements to help schools continue to serve children healthy meals. The move will add an estimated $750 million more into school meal programs across the nation. The goal is to make sure that federal reimbursements keep pace with food and operational costs, while ensuring children can continue to get healthy meals at school. “USDA understands that balancing the pressures of COVID-19 with the need to feed children nutritious meals continue to be a priority for schools across the country,” Vilsack says. School lunch reimbursement rates don’t typically increase during the school year. However, because of COVID, USDA allowed schools to benefit from the highest rates available, which are typically reserved for USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. The adjustment will help ensure that the purchasing power of schools can keep pace with the cost of living.

USDA funding will continue to support school meals

The 2021 calendar year runoff for the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 15.2 million acre-feet, 59 percent of average. 

The ongoing drought shows no relief in sight, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is predicting runoff into the mainstem reservoir system will remain below normal. 

Officials say 2021 was the 10th lowest annual runoff for the Missouri River Basin in 123 years of record-keeping. 

Based on current runoff trends, soil moisture, and plains and mountain snowpack, the dry conditions are expected to continue, as mountain snowpack is accumulating at a below-average rate. 

The 2022 runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, is forecast to be 21.7 million acre-feet, 84 percent of average. Navigation flow support for the Missouri River is forecasted to be at minimum levels for the first half of the 2022 season, which begins April 1 at the mouth of the river near St. Louis, Missouri.

The 2021 calendar year runoff for the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 15.2 million acre-feet, 59 percent of average. The ongoing drought shows no relief in sight, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is predicting runoff into the mainstem reservoir system will remain below normal. Officials say 2021 was the 10th lowest annual runoff for the Missouri River Basin in 123 years of record-keeping. Based on current runoff trends, soil moisture, and plains and mountain snowpack, the dry conditions are expected to continue, as mountain snowpack is accumulating at a below-average rate. The 2022 runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, is forecast to be 21.7 million acre-feet, 84 percent of average. Navigation flow support for the Missouri River is forecasted to be at minimum levels for the first half of the 2022 season, which begins April 1 at the mouth of the river near St. Louis, Missouri.

Dry conditions to continue for Missouri River basin

Corn farmers who split-apply nitrogen have another option for insurance coverage. USDA’s Risk Management Agency this week announced the details of its Post Application Coverage Endorsement, or PACE, in certain states for non-irrigated corn. 

The program provides coverage for producers who split-apply nitrogen to save money, a practice also considered better for natural resources. 

PACE provides payments for the projected yield lost when producers are unable to apply the post nitrogen application during the V3-V10 corn growth stages due to field conditions created by weather. 

PACE is offered in select counties in 11 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. 

It is available as supplemental coverage for Yield Protection, Revenue Protection, and Revenue Protection with Harvest Price Exclusion policies. To split-apply nitrogen, growers make multiple fertilizer applications during the growing season rather than providing all the crop’s nitrogen requirements with a single treatment before or during planting.

Corn farmers who split-apply nitrogen have another option for insurance coverage. USDA’s Risk Management Agency this week announced the details of its Post Application Coverage Endorsement, or PACE, in certain states for non-irrigated corn. The program provides coverage for producers who split-apply nitrogen to save money, a practice also considered better for natural resources. PACE provides payments for the projected yield lost when producers are unable to apply the post nitrogen application during the V3-V10 corn growth stages due to field conditions created by weather. PACE is offered in select counties in 11 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. It is available as supplemental coverage for Yield Protection, Revenue Protection, and Revenue Protection with Harvest Price Exclusion policies. To split-apply nitrogen, growers make multiple fertilizer applications during the growing season rather than providing all the crop’s nitrogen requirements with a single treatment before or during planting.

New insurance option for conservation-minded corn farmers

Leading grocery store operators ended 2021 with a lawsuit against the pork industry for allegedly conspiring to control the industry and raise prices. 

Kroger, Albertsons, Hy-Vee and others filed the lawsuit against Hormel, JBS USA, Seaboard Foods, Smithfield, Triumph and Tyson, among others last week. 

Law Street Media reports the plaintiffs alleged the defendants and Indiana Packers Corporation entered “into a conspiracy from at least 2009 to the present to fix, raise, maintain, and stabilize the price of pork.” And the grocery store operators are seeking damages to the maximum extent allowed under law. 

The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California. The petitioners claim Agri Stats, an ag industry data provider, held a central role in the conspiracy. 

The complaint claims that beginning in 2008 or before, Agri Stats proposed a series of benchmarks to the pork industry to monitor pork production as a way to "increase their profits in the sale of pork and not to increase their pork production."

Leading grocery store operators ended 2021 with a lawsuit against the pork industry for allegedly conspiring to control the industry and raise prices. Kroger, Albertsons, Hy-Vee and others filed the lawsuit against Hormel, JBS USA, Seaboard Foods, Smithfield, Triumph and Tyson, among others last week. Law Street Media reports the plaintiffs alleged the defendants and Indiana Packers Corporation entered “into a conspiracy from at least 2009 to the present to fix, raise, maintain, and stabilize the price of pork.” And the grocery store operators are seeking damages to the maximum extent allowed under law. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California. The petitioners claim Agri Stats, an ag industry data provider, held a central role in the conspiracy. The complaint claims that beginning in 2008 or before, Agri Stats proposed a series of benchmarks to the pork industry to monitor pork production as a way to "increase their profits in the sale of pork and not to increase their pork production."

Grocers allege pork price fixing in lawsuit

HONOLULU (AP) — The Monsanto company pleaded guilty Thursday to illegally using and storing agricultural chemicals in Hawaii, and will pay $12 million in fines. Monsanto was charged with 30 environmental crimes after allowing workers to go into corn fields on Oahu in 2020 after a product named Forfeit 280 was sprayed.&nbsp;

Federal law prohibits people from entering areas where the chemical is sprayed within six days of application. Monsanto agreed to three years of probation in addition to the fines and will continue an “environmental compliance program” overseen by a third-party, according to the U.S Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles, which handled the prosecution.

HONOLULU (AP) — The Monsanto company pleaded guilty Thursday to illegally using and storing agricultural chemicals in Hawaii, and will pay $12 million in fines. Monsanto was charged with 30 environmental crimes after allowing workers to go into corn fields on Oahu in 2020 after a product named Forfeit 280 was sprayed.&nbsp;Federal law prohibits people from entering areas where the chemical is sprayed within six days of application. Monsanto agreed to three years of probation in addition to the fines and will continue an “environmental compliance program” overseen by a third-party, according to the U.S Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles, which handled the prosecution.

Monsanto pleads guilty to pesticide-related crimes 

Farmers and people in rural areas are more comfortable discussing stress and mental health challenges. The stigma around seeking help or treatment for mental health issues is decreasing, but a new Farm Bureau research poll says it is still a factor. 

“Farm Bureau has been encouraging conversations to help reduce the stigma around farmer stress and mental health through our Farm State of Mind Campaign,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. 

“The poll shows we’re making a difference, but there is still work to do.” Among the poll responses, four in five rural adults and 92 percent of farmers and farmworkers say they’d be comfortable talking with family and friends about solutions to stress or a mental health condition. 

The number of farmers and farmworkers who are comfortable talking to friends and family has grown 22 percent since April 2019. However, 59 percent of respondents say the mental health stigma is still there.

Farmers and people in rural areas are more comfortable discussing stress and mental health challenges. The stigma around seeking help or treatment for mental health issues is decreasing, but a new Farm Bureau research poll says it is still a factor. “Farm Bureau has been encouraging conversations to help reduce the stigma around farmer stress and mental health through our Farm State of Mind Campaign,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “The poll shows we’re making a difference, but there is still work to do.” Among the poll responses, four in five rural adults and 92 percent of farmers and farmworkers say they’d be comfortable talking with family and friends about solutions to stress or a mental health condition. The number of farmers and farmworkers who are comfortable talking to friends and family has grown 22 percent since April 2019. However, 59 percent of respondents say the mental health stigma is still there.

Reduced stigma regarding farmer mental health

Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board announced a new strategic plan prioritizing sustainable soy solutions for global and domestic customers. The plan will also ensure value and profitability for U.S. soybean farmers. 

USB Chair Ralph Lott says farmer investments have fueled “groundbreaking progress” promoting U.S. soybeans. “We also know that in the years ahead, the soy industry will be faced with compelling opportunities and tough decisions,” Lott says. 

“The new strategic plan sets a clear path to navigate what’s ahead, capturing value, and increasing profits for farmers.” The plan will guide investments in research, education, and promotion across three priority areas: Infrastructure and Connectivity, Health and Nutrition, and Innovation and Technology. 

Those are divided into two additional areas of focus; supply and demand; and measured by resilience, differentiation, and reputation. “These priority areas drive our decisions and focus our efforts to create the most value and positive impact for every soybean farmer,” Lott adds.

Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board announced a new strategic plan prioritizing sustainable soy solutions for global and domestic customers. The plan will also ensure value and profitability for U.S. soybean farmers. USB Chair Ralph Lott says farmer investments have fueled “groundbreaking progress” promoting U.S. soybeans. “We also know that in the years ahead, the soy industry will be faced with compelling opportunities and tough decisions,” Lott says. “The new strategic plan sets a clear path to navigate what’s ahead, capturing value, and increasing profits for farmers.” The plan will guide investments in research, education, and promotion across three priority areas: Infrastructure and Connectivity, Health and Nutrition, and Innovation and Technology. Those are divided into two additional areas of focus; supply and demand; and measured by resilience, differentiation, and reputation. “These priority areas drive our decisions and focus our efforts to create the most value and positive impact for every soybean farmer,” Lott adds.

Soy Checkoff sets new strategic plan to bring value to farmers

Deere and Company helped mechanize agriculture with the first commercially successful steel plow in 1837. They recently went in a different direction by unveiling another transformative machine: a fully autonomous tractor. 

Wired says the new 8R tractor uses six pairs of cameras and advanced artificial intelligence to navigate its environment. It can find its way to a field when given a route and coordinates. 

Once there, it can plow soil or plant seeds without instructions, and the machine avoids the obstacles in each field. 

Farmers can also give the tractor new instructions through a smartphone app. Other tractors on the market can operate autonomously, but only in limited ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;They can follow a defined route through GPS but can’t avoid obstacles. 

Others feature limited autonomy but still need a farmer behind the wheel. Deere hasn’t announced how much it will cost. The 8R relies on neural network algorithms to interpret information from the cameras.

Deere and Company helped mechanize agriculture with the first commercially successful steel plow in 1837. They recently went in a different direction by unveiling another transformative machine: a fully autonomous tractor. Wired says the new 8R tractor uses six pairs of cameras and advanced artificial intelligence to navigate its environment. It can find its way to a field when given a route and coordinates. Once there, it can plow soil or plant seeds without instructions, and the machine avoids the obstacles in each field. Farmers can also give the tractor new instructions through a smartphone app. Other tractors on the market can operate autonomously, but only in limited ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;They can follow a defined route through GPS but can’t avoid obstacles. Others feature limited autonomy but still need a farmer behind the wheel. Deere hasn’t announced how much it will cost. The 8R relies on neural network algorithms to interpret information from the cameras.

Deere introduces first fully autonomous tractor

Another round of bitterly cold temperatures will impact northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas on Wednesday night into Thursday.

A Wind Chill Advisory is in effect from midnight until noon Thursday for far southeast Nebraska and most of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri. Wind chills late Wednesday and early Thursday can be as low as 15 degrees below zero.

"That's not what the actual temperatures are," National Weather Service meteorologist Jared Leighton said. "The actual temperature will be around zero, but with the wind around 10-20 mph, it'll cause the hypothermia and frost bite process to speed up quite a bit more if it was just zero degrees."

There's a slight chance of snow late Wednesday night, but accumulations are not expected. Highs on Thursday will only reach the low teens, and northwest winds of 15-25 mph will continue through the day.

Lows will hit the single digits Thursday night before temperatures rebound into the 20s for Friday and then the mid 40s by Saturday.

Leighton says the first half of winter has been drier and warmer than normal, which could be an indication of what to expect going forward.

"So far, it's been incredibly warm," Leighton said. "I think our December was in third place for the warmest December of all time. That goes back to the late 1880s. With the outlook being warm and dry for the middle part of (January), it looks pretty likely we'll get halfway through the winter season without much in the way of impact."

The entire region saw its first shot of significant snow fall over the New Years Day weekend, though most areas saw less snow than what was forecast. St. Joseph reported around three inches, the Kansas City Airport had two, while portions of Worth and Harrison counties near the Iowa line reported six inch totals.

Leighton reminds people that the forecast can always rapidly change during this time of year.

"All it takes is one big system to make all of that up and turn it into a pretty average year and be pretty impactful."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAnother round of bitterly cold temperatures will impact northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas on Wednesday night into Thursday.A Wind Chill Advisory is in effect from midnight until noon Thursday for far southeast Nebraska and most of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri. Wind chills late Wednesday and early Thursday can be as low as 15 degrees below zero."That's not what the actual temperatures are," National Weather Service meteorologist Jared Leighton said. "The actual temperature will be around zero, but with the wind around 10-20 mph, it'll cause the hypothermia and frost bite process to speed up quite a bit more if it was just zero degrees."There's a slight chance of snow late Wednesday night, but accumulations are not expected. Highs on Thursday will only reach the low teens, and northwest winds of 15-25 mph will continue through the day.Lows will hit the single digits Thursday night before temperatures rebound into the 20s for Friday and then the mid 40s by Saturday.Leighton says the first half of winter has been drier and warmer than normal, which could be an indication of what to expect going forward."So far, it's been incredibly warm," Leighton said. "I think our December was in third place for the warmest December of all time. That goes back to the late 1880s. With the outlook being warm and dry for the middle part of (January), it looks pretty likely we'll get halfway through the winter season without much in the way of impact."The entire region saw its first shot of significant snow fall over the New Years Day weekend, though most areas saw less snow than what was forecast. St. Joseph reported around three inches, the Kansas City Airport had two, while portions of Worth and Harrison counties near the Iowa line reported six inch totals.Leighton reminds people that the forecast can always rapidly change during this time of year."All it takes is one big system to make all of that up and turn it into a pretty average year and be pretty impactful."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.