University-level researchers say pork prices, not industry profits, are rising. Economists from Iowa State University and North Carolina State University released the report Tuesday with the National Pork Producers Council. 

The report shows prices are rising due to increased transportation costs, supply bottlenecks and delays and increased labor costs throughout the supply chain, caused or intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, “increased profits, whether at the retail, wholesale, or farm level, are likely not a significant contributor to the rising prices.” 

Other factors include a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing capacity that resulted from a federal court order stopping faster harvesting line speeds, higher energy costs, rising feed costs, and a shortage of workers, which hindered productivity and caused wages to increase. 

NPPC says the long-term outlook for labor, a critical factor in easing supply chain challenges and high prices, is dependent on future immigration policy and agricultural labor reform.

University-level researchers say pork prices, not industry profits, are rising. Economists from Iowa State University and North Carolina State University released the report Tuesday with the National Pork Producers Council. The report shows prices are rising due to increased transportation costs, supply bottlenecks and delays and increased labor costs throughout the supply chain, caused or intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, “increased profits, whether at the retail, wholesale, or farm level, are likely not a significant contributor to the rising prices.” Other factors include a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing capacity that resulted from a federal court order stopping faster harvesting line speeds, higher energy costs, rising feed costs, and a shortage of workers, which hindered productivity and caused wages to increase. NPPC says the long-term outlook for labor, a critical factor in easing supply chain challenges and high prices, is dependent on future immigration policy and agricultural labor reform.

Wages, input costs and supply chain problems pushing up pork prices but not profits

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday gifted Texas A&amp;M University $500,000 this holiday season to establish international fellowship programs. 

The award is for the University’s Norman Borlaug Institute to establish and teach school-based programs in Guatemala through the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program. 

Administered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Administrator Daniel Whitley says the program will “help meet the food and fiber needs of Guatemalan communities.” 

That objective, according to Whitley, aligns with the Biden administration’s priorities for addressing the root causes of migration from the Northern Triangle region of Central America.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Each Fellow will spend up to ten months in Guatemala during the 2022-2023 school year teaching agricultural skills and training youth at secondary schools and rural communities, activities that also support the U.S. Government Global Food Security Strategy. 

While on the ground, fellows will collaborate with existing U.S. Government projects to ensure synergy and to maximize benefits across programs.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday gifted Texas A&amp;M University $500,000 this holiday season to establish international fellowship programs. The award is for the University’s Norman Borlaug Institute to establish and teach school-based programs in Guatemala through the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program. Administered by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, Administrator Daniel Whitley says the program will “help meet the food and fiber needs of Guatemalan communities.” That objective, according to Whitley, aligns with the Biden administration’s priorities for addressing the root causes of migration from the Northern Triangle region of Central America.&nbsp;&nbsp;Each Fellow will spend up to ten months in Guatemala during the 2022-2023 school year teaching agricultural skills and training youth at secondary schools and rural communities, activities that also support the U.S. Government Global Food Security Strategy. While on the ground, fellows will collaborate with existing U.S. Government projects to ensure synergy and to maximize benefits across programs.

USDA awards $500,000 to Texas A&M for International Fellowship Program

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the deadline for farmers who are certified organic, or transitioning to organic, to apply for pandemic assistance. 

The Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program helps cover certification and education expenses. The deadline to apply for 2020 and 2021 eligible expenses is now February 4, 2022, rather than the original deadline of January 7, 2022. 

Certified operations and transitional operations may apply for eligible expenses paid during the 2020, 2021 and 2022 fiscal years. Signup for the 2022 fiscal year will be announced at a later date. 

For each year, the program covers 25 percent of a certified operation’s eligible certification expenses, up to $250 per certification category – crop, livestock, wild crop, handling and State Organic Program fee. 

This includes application fees, inspection fees, USDA organic certification costs, state organic program fees and more. Producers can learn more and apply through their local FSA office.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the deadline for farmers who are certified organic, or transitioning to organic, to apply for pandemic assistance. The Organic and Transitional Education and Certification Program helps cover certification and education expenses. The deadline to apply for 2020 and 2021 eligible expenses is now February 4, 2022, rather than the original deadline of January 7, 2022. Certified operations and transitional operations may apply for eligible expenses paid during the 2020, 2021 and 2022 fiscal years. Signup for the 2022 fiscal year will be announced at a later date. For each year, the program covers 25 percent of a certified operation’s eligible certification expenses, up to $250 per certification category – crop, livestock, wild crop, handling and State Organic Program fee. This includes application fees, inspection fees, USDA organic certification costs, state organic program fees and more. Producers can learn more and apply through their local FSA office.

Deadline extended to apply for pandemic support for organic operations

The nation's average gas price declined for the sixth straight week, down 2.9 cents from a week ago at $3.30 per gallon. The national average is down 11 cents from a month ago and $1.09 per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel declined two cents in the last week and stands at $3.58 per gallon. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “The decline in gas prices will likely continue until new Covid cases slow down.” 

De Haan says the U.S. may see Christmas gas prices fall just under their all-time high on the holiday, which was $3.26 in 2013. Beyond Christmas, with omicron cases likely to continue climbing, there will likely be a more noticeable hit on gasoline demand once the holidays are over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week, likely as motorists get out and finish their gift buying ahead of Christmas. Nationally, weekly gasoline demand was up 2.9 percent from the prior week.

The nation's average gas price declined for the sixth straight week, down 2.9 cents from a week ago at $3.30 per gallon. The national average is down 11 cents from a month ago and $1.09 per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel declined two cents in the last week and stands at $3.58 per gallon. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “The decline in gas prices will likely continue until new Covid cases slow down.” De Haan says the U.S. may see Christmas gas prices fall just under their all-time high on the holiday, which was $3.26 in 2013. Beyond Christmas, with omicron cases likely to continue climbing, there will likely be a more noticeable hit on gasoline demand once the holidays are over.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose last week, likely as motorists get out and finish their gift buying ahead of Christmas. Nationally, weekly gasoline demand was up 2.9 percent from the prior week.

Fuel prices continue decline ahead of Christmas

USDA is leveraging its authorities under the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to bring in new types of partners and expand opportunities in voluntary conservation. 

In direct response to feedback from stakeholders, USDA updated the program’s rule regarding matching fund requirements, and invested in additional staff to work directly with partners. 

The program is part of the Conservation Reserve Program and enables USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, through Farm Service Agency, and partners to co-invest in partner-led projects. 

The program also plays an important role in USDA’s broader climate change strategy, bringing together producers, landowners and partners for climate-smart land management. 

The rule also updated policy to provide a full annual rental rate to producers impacted by ordinances and regulations that require a resource conserving or environmental protection measure.&nbsp; At present, all partners are States. 

However, FSA is strongly encouraging Tribes and non-governmental organizations to consider partnerships. Currently, the program has 34 projects in 26 states, and more than 860,000 acres are enrolled.

USDA is leveraging its authorities under the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to bring in new types of partners and expand opportunities in voluntary conservation. In direct response to feedback from stakeholders, USDA updated the program’s rule regarding matching fund requirements, and invested in additional staff to work directly with partners. The program is part of the Conservation Reserve Program and enables USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation, through Farm Service Agency, and partners to co-invest in partner-led projects. The program also plays an important role in USDA’s broader climate change strategy, bringing together producers, landowners and partners for climate-smart land management. The rule also updated policy to provide a full annual rental rate to producers impacted by ordinances and regulations that require a resource conserving or environmental protection measure.&nbsp; At present, all partners are States. However, FSA is strongly encouraging Tribes and non-governmental organizations to consider partnerships. Currently, the program has 34 projects in 26 states, and more than 860,000 acres are enrolled.

USDA expands partnerships for conservation

The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection. 

USDA expects to appoint committee members in 2022. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "attracting and appointing individuals from diverse perspectives and expertise to serve on the committee will be essential to accomplishing our food safety goals." 

USDA seeks nominations from individuals with knowledge and interest in meat and poultry food safety and other FSIS policies. USDA also seeks representation of small and very small establishments and geographic diversity of members. 

Persons in academia, industry, state and local government officials, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations are invited to submit nominations, and self-nominations are welcomed. 

Established in 1971 by FSIS, the committee consists of 20 members and provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety concerns. Nominations packages must be received by February 18, 2022.

The Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection. USDA expects to appoint committee members in 2022. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "attracting and appointing individuals from diverse perspectives and expertise to serve on the committee will be essential to accomplishing our food safety goals." USDA seeks nominations from individuals with knowledge and interest in meat and poultry food safety and other FSIS policies. USDA also seeks representation of small and very small establishments and geographic diversity of members. Persons in academia, industry, state and local government officials, public health organizations, and industry and consumer organizations are invited to submit nominations, and self-nominations are welcomed. Established in 1971 by FSIS, the committee consists of 20 members and provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety concerns. Nominations packages must be received by February 18, 2022.

USDA seeks nominations for membership on Food Safety Advisory Committee

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley sent a letter to Attorney General Garland calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the fertilizer industry. 

American farmers are raising concerns about possible anti-competitive activity and market manipulation. 

Grassley says fertilizer is an essential input for farmers across the country, and without it, crop yields and agricultural productivity would get significantly smaller. 

“I have heard numerous concerns from Iowans and member organizations who are concerned that fertilizer companies are colluding and unfairly raising the price of their products,” Grassley writes in the letter. 

The industry has seen dramatic growth in prices: nitrogen fertilizer has doubled in price, anhydrous rose by 131 percent, urea by 110 percent, and potash up 120 percent. 

“The DOJ should investigate the fertilizer market so farmers across the country can get assurances that there are no violations of U.S. antitrust law in the fertilizer industry,” Grassley says. “Fertilizer tariffs are placing a huge financial burden on farmers.” &nbsp;

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley sent a letter to Attorney General Garland calling for the Department of Justice to investigate the fertilizer industry. American farmers are raising concerns about possible anti-competitive activity and market manipulation. Grassley says fertilizer is an essential input for farmers across the country, and without it, crop yields and agricultural productivity would get significantly smaller. “I have heard numerous concerns from Iowans and member organizations who are concerned that fertilizer companies are colluding and unfairly raising the price of their products,” Grassley writes in the letter. The industry has seen dramatic growth in prices: nitrogen fertilizer has doubled in price, anhydrous rose by 131 percent, urea by 110 percent, and potash up 120 percent. “The DOJ should investigate the fertilizer market so farmers across the country can get assurances that there are no violations of U.S. antitrust law in the fertilizer industry,” Grassley says. “Fertilizer tariffs are placing a huge financial burden on farmers.” &nbsp;

Grassley: Investigation needed in the fertilizer industry

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack are asking the world’s leading ocean carriers to get rid of disruptions to agricultural shippers of American exports. 

They want relief for the supply chain disruptions created by COVID-19 by restoring reciprocal treatment of imports and exports and improving service. Ocean carriers have made fewer containers available for U.S. agricultural commodities. 

They’ve also repeatedly changed return dates and charged unfair fees as the ocean carriers short-circuited the normal pathways and rushed containers back to be exported empty. The poor service and refusal to serve customers is exemplified by many ocean carriers suspending service to the Port of Oakland. 

DOT and USDA are calling on carriers to utilize available terminal capacity more fully on the West Coast. They note that West Coast ports have excess capacity to alleviate supply-chain congestion. Restoring service to Oakland would ease congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack are asking the world’s leading ocean carriers to get rid of disruptions to agricultural shippers of American exports. They want relief for the supply chain disruptions created by COVID-19 by restoring reciprocal treatment of imports and exports and improving service. Ocean carriers have made fewer containers available for U.S. agricultural commodities. They’ve also repeatedly changed return dates and charged unfair fees as the ocean carriers short-circuited the normal pathways and rushed containers back to be exported empty. The poor service and refusal to serve customers is exemplified by many ocean carriers suspending service to the Port of Oakland. DOT and USDA are calling on carriers to utilize available terminal capacity more fully on the West Coast. They note that West Coast ports have excess capacity to alleviate supply-chain congestion. Restoring service to Oakland would ease congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Transportation, ag departments want better shipping service for agriculture

The National Corn Growers Association says one of the top fertilizer companies has erected an insurmountable barrier to keep top competitors out of the U.S. market. 

An NCGA letter says the barrier is hurting America’s farmers. NCGA and its state affiliates signed a letter sent to Mosaic, one of the nation’s top fertilizer producers. The letter takes Mosaic to task for the tariffs that were imposed in March by the International Trade Commission at the fertilizer company’s request. 

“Mosaic’s posture to date has been a masterpiece of irresponsible corporate social responsibility,” the letter adds. “Only 15 percent of phosphorous imports now come into the U.S. without tariffs.” 

The organization also points out that experts say using the Commerce Department and the Trade Commission to manipulate the supply curve does indeed dictate the price to farmers. The Corn Growers are asking Mosaic to reverse course and allow critical supply back into the U.S.

The National Corn Growers Association says one of the top fertilizer companies has erected an insurmountable barrier to keep top competitors out of the U.S. market. An NCGA letter says the barrier is hurting America’s farmers. NCGA and its state affiliates signed a letter sent to Mosaic, one of the nation’s top fertilizer producers. The letter takes Mosaic to task for the tariffs that were imposed in March by the International Trade Commission at the fertilizer company’s request. “Mosaic’s posture to date has been a masterpiece of irresponsible corporate social responsibility,” the letter adds. “Only 15 percent of phosphorous imports now come into the U.S. without tariffs.” The organization also points out that experts say using the Commerce Department and the Trade Commission to manipulate the supply curve does indeed dictate the price to farmers. The Corn Growers are asking Mosaic to reverse course and allow critical supply back into the U.S.

NCGA wants fertilizer tariffs ended

Perdue Farms is delivering $150,000 and 160,000 servings of chicken products to Kentucky residents impacted by the weekend tornado outbreak. 

The funds are going to the United Way of Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund and the meals are going to Feeding America, Kentucky's Heartland. 

Perdue's response is made possible through the company's "Delivering Hope To Our Neighbors" initiative focused in part on disaster relief, and improving quality of life and building stronger communities. 

Kevin Middletown, president of United Way of Kentucky, says, "This will mean so much to our neighbors who lost everything over the weekend.” 

Meanwhile, the Kentucky Farm Bureau has launched its KFB for Kentucky Relief Fund to aid the families and communities affected by the recent tornado outbreak. And the Kentucky Department of Agriculture has a resource webpage for impacted farmers. The page includes links to donation funds as well. You can find the resource page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kyagr.com/tornado/">kyagr.com/tornado/</a>.

Perdue Farms is delivering $150,000 and 160,000 servings of chicken products to Kentucky residents impacted by the weekend tornado outbreak. The funds are going to the United Way of Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund and the meals are going to Feeding America, Kentucky's Heartland. Perdue's response is made possible through the company's "Delivering Hope To Our Neighbors" initiative focused in part on disaster relief, and improving quality of life and building stronger communities. Kevin Middletown, president of United Way of Kentucky, says, "This will mean so much to our neighbors who lost everything over the weekend.” Meanwhile, the Kentucky Farm Bureau has launched its KFB for Kentucky Relief Fund to aid the families and communities affected by the recent tornado outbreak. And the Kentucky Department of Agriculture has a resource webpage for impacted farmers. The page includes links to donation funds as well. You can find the resource page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kyagr.com/tornado/">kyagr.com/tornado/</a>.

Perdue Farms sends donation, meals to Kentucky, ag relief programs open

After several years of modest gains and losses, the average value of an acre of Iowa farmland skyrocketed 29 percent in 2021. 

The nominal value of an acre of farmland is now higher than at any point since Iowa State University began surveying values in 1941, and is 12 percent higher than the previous peak in 2013. 

However, the current value in inflation-adjusted terms is still lower than that for 2012 and 2013. The last time farmland values increased more than 25 percent was in 2011, when values rose 32.5 percent. 

An Iowa State University researcher says, “The increase this year is in part due to much stronger commodity prices thanks to higher exports, stronger than expected crop yields, and strong ad hoc COVID-19 related government payments.” 

The survey found that the average statewide value of an acre of farmland is $9,751, an increase of 29 percent, or $2,193, since 2020.

After several years of modest gains and losses, the average value of an acre of Iowa farmland skyrocketed 29 percent in 2021. The nominal value of an acre of farmland is now higher than at any point since Iowa State University began surveying values in 1941, and is 12 percent higher than the previous peak in 2013. However, the current value in inflation-adjusted terms is still lower than that for 2012 and 2013. The last time farmland values increased more than 25 percent was in 2011, when values rose 32.5 percent. An Iowa State University researcher says, “The increase this year is in part due to much stronger commodity prices thanks to higher exports, stronger than expected crop yields, and strong ad hoc COVID-19 related government payments.” The survey found that the average statewide value of an acre of farmland is $9,751, an increase of 29 percent, or $2,193, since 2020.

Iowa farmland values up 29%

The U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef joins the Trust In Beef program as a founding partner and technical advisor. 

Trust In Beef is a new effort to empower beef producers to accelerate the adoption of their sustainability journey and provide consumers with real-life proof of the continuously improving environmental performance of beef. 

The program is led by Farm Journal‘s social purpose division, Trust In Food, and its industry leading beef brand, Drovers. Debbie Lyons-Blythe, chair-elect of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, says, “Our members are committed to continuous improvement, which makes this partnership a great fit.” 

She says the Roundtable has paved the way to ranch-level sustainability progress with their science-based tools and frameworks. Trust In Beef will use their resources to connect beef producers with trusted guidance. 

Trust In Beef launched in Fall 2021 and supports 200,000 beef producers in accelerating continuous improvement in environmental performance, and providing that message to consumers.

The U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef joins the Trust In Beef program as a founding partner and technical advisor. Trust In Beef is a new effort to empower beef producers to accelerate the adoption of their sustainability journey and provide consumers with real-life proof of the continuously improving environmental performance of beef. The program is led by Farm Journal‘s social purpose division, Trust In Food, and its industry leading beef brand, Drovers. Debbie Lyons-Blythe, chair-elect of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, says, “Our members are committed to continuous improvement, which makes this partnership a great fit.” She says the Roundtable has paved the way to ranch-level sustainability progress with their science-based tools and frameworks. Trust In Beef will use their resources to connect beef producers with trusted guidance. Trust In Beef launched in Fall 2021 and supports 200,000 beef producers in accelerating continuous improvement in environmental performance, and providing that message to consumers.

USRSB joins Trust In Beef

Senate Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa joined Senate Democrat Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota to introduce a bill Tuesday that they say will provide certainty to biofuel producers. 

The legislation would prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from reducing the minimum applicable volume of biofuels into transportation fuel once the renewable volume obligations levels are finalized for any given year. 

That means, the lawmakers say, the legislation would prevent the EPA from retroactively reducing 2020 or future finalized RVO levels. Grassley says, “It is critical that we establish new safeguards that uphold the RFS and ensure all administrations remain committed to following the law.” 

The bill is cosponsored by Senate Republican Joni Ernst of Iowa and Democrat Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Republican Representative Ashley Hinson of Iowa and Rodney Davis of Illinois, along with House Democrats Angie Craig of Minnesota and Ron Kind of Wisconsin.

Senate Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa joined Senate Democrat Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota to introduce a bill Tuesday that they say will provide certainty to biofuel producers. The legislation would prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from reducing the minimum applicable volume of biofuels into transportation fuel once the renewable volume obligations levels are finalized for any given year. That means, the lawmakers say, the legislation would prevent the EPA from retroactively reducing 2020 or future finalized RVO levels. Grassley says, “It is critical that we establish new safeguards that uphold the RFS and ensure all administrations remain committed to following the law.” The bill is cosponsored by Senate Republican Joni Ernst of Iowa and Democrat Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Republican Representative Ashley Hinson of Iowa and Rodney Davis of Illinois, along with House Democrats Angie Craig of Minnesota and Ron Kind of Wisconsin.

Bill to block retroactive changes to RVOs introduced

The Corn Refiners Association Tuesday released a new report revealing the United States is behind its competitors in reducing global trade barriers. 

The report, which tracked trade agreements since 2010, shows several nations have outpaced the U.S. in the creation of new bilateral and multilateral trade arrangements, including China, Japan, the European Union, and Canada. 

At the same time, U.S. trade partners are pressing forward with new trade agreements without the U.S., risking diminished American economic competitiveness and investment opportunities. 

Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode says, “We must act swiftly on these issues to reaffirm American leadership and maintain our status as a leading voice in global trade regulations and standards.” 

While the U.S. has completed four trade agreements since 2010, including the modernization of an existing agreement, China has entered into ten new agreements, Japan has entered into seven, the EU has entered into eight, and Canada has entered into eight.

The Corn Refiners Association Tuesday released a new report revealing the United States is behind its competitors in reducing global trade barriers. The report, which tracked trade agreements since 2010, shows several nations have outpaced the U.S. in the creation of new bilateral and multilateral trade arrangements, including China, Japan, the European Union, and Canada. At the same time, U.S. trade partners are pressing forward with new trade agreements without the U.S., risking diminished American economic competitiveness and investment opportunities. Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode says, “We must act swiftly on these issues to reaffirm American leadership and maintain our status as a leading voice in global trade regulations and standards.” While the U.S. has completed four trade agreements since 2010, including the modernization of an existing agreement, China has entered into ten new agreements, Japan has entered into seven, the EU has entered into eight, and Canada has entered into eight.

Report: U.S. trade falling behind global competitors

A coalition of more than 60 agriculture groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation requests agricultural workers be exempted from travel restrictions from South Africa. 

In a letter to the Biden administration, the coalition says, “While protecting our nation from new variants of COVID-19 is critically important, it is in our national interest to ensure production of food, fuel and fiber.” 

Specifically, the groups ask Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the Homeland Security Department to give National Interest Exceptions to H-2A workers coming to the United States as outlined in the proclamations as an exception to the travel restrictions. 

The agriculture groups say almost 7,000 guestworkers originate from South Africa, and the majority of them arrive in the U.S. in February, March and April. Many of these H-2A workers have a unique skillset, and American farmers are counting on their timely arrival as they make plans for their upcoming growing seasons.

A coalition of more than 60 agriculture groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation requests agricultural workers be exempted from travel restrictions from South Africa. In a letter to the Biden administration, the coalition says, “While protecting our nation from new variants of COVID-19 is critically important, it is in our national interest to ensure production of food, fuel and fiber.” Specifically, the groups ask Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the Homeland Security Department to give National Interest Exceptions to H-2A workers coming to the United States as outlined in the proclamations as an exception to the travel restrictions. The agriculture groups say almost 7,000 guestworkers originate from South Africa, and the majority of them arrive in the U.S. in February, March and April. Many of these H-2A workers have a unique skillset, and American farmers are counting on their timely arrival as they make plans for their upcoming growing seasons.

Coalition: Ag labor must be exempt from travel restrictions

Strong, sustained winds will make their way across the region Wednesday, bringing with them a high risk of power outages and outdoor fire danger.

The National Weather Service offices in Kansas City, Des Moines and Omaha have issued High Wind Warnings across large swaths of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, lasting through the entire day Wednesday.

Meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz from the Kansas City/Pleasant Hill office says an event like this is somewhat rare.

"Really once every couple of years, we get a really strong low pressure like this that's lifting across the Plains," Kurtz said. "When we pull out the High Wind Warning, that usually means it's going to be pretty significant with sustained winds of 35-40 mph during the day with gusts of up to 60-65 mph."

Temperatures Wednesday are also expected to reach the 70s. Combine that with high winds and dry vegetation, the outdoor fire danger is also elevated. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued for portions of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri.

"You mix the warm and windy conditions along with dry fuels, grasses and dry vegetation, any fire that gets sparked or that somebody sets could get out of control pretty quick," Kurtz added.

Perhaps the biggest concern is the possibility of widespread power outages, especially if tree limbs fall onto power lines.

Evergy spokesperson Andrew Baker says crews across their service area are ready to deal with the strong winds.

"Evergy's tree trimming and vegetation management along with other maintenance works is really our best defense against high winds in situations like this," Baker explained. "However, if we see those 60-70 mph winds, it's still possible we could experience some wind caused outages."

Baker says the threat for severe weather and periods of high winds during thunderstorms prepares Evergy crews to deal with adverse weather patterns throughout the year.

"Preparations for things like this don't just happen days before or hours before," Baker said. "It's something we monitor year-round to put ourselves in the best position possible for when we do see this kind of weather."

The high winds are expected to subside late Wednesday night. Temperatures will cool off into the 40s and 50s for the rest of the week and into the weekend, but dry and sunny conditions are expected for the foreseeable future.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostStrong, sustained winds will make their way across the region Wednesday, bringing with them a high risk of power outages and outdoor fire danger.The National Weather Service offices in Kansas City, Des Moines and Omaha have issued High Wind Warnings across large swaths of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, lasting through the entire day Wednesday.Meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz from the Kansas City/Pleasant Hill office says an event like this is somewhat rare."Really once every couple of years, we get a really strong low pressure like this that's lifting across the Plains," Kurtz said. "When we pull out the High Wind Warning, that usually means it's going to be pretty significant with sustained winds of 35-40 mph during the day with gusts of up to 60-65 mph."Temperatures Wednesday are also expected to reach the 70s. Combine that with high winds and dry vegetation, the outdoor fire danger is also elevated. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued for portions of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri."You mix the warm and windy conditions along with dry fuels, grasses and dry vegetation, any fire that gets sparked or that somebody sets could get out of control pretty quick," Kurtz added.Perhaps the biggest concern is the possibility of widespread power outages, especially if tree limbs fall onto power lines.Evergy spokesperson Andrew Baker says crews across their service area are ready to deal with the strong winds."Evergy's tree trimming and vegetation management along with other maintenance works is really our best defense against high winds in situations like this," Baker explained. "However, if we see those 60-70 mph winds, it's still possible we could experience some wind caused outages."Baker says the threat for severe weather and periods of high winds during thunderstorms prepares Evergy crews to deal with adverse weather patterns throughout the year."Preparations for things like this don't just happen days before or hours before," Baker said. "It's something we monitor year-round to put ourselves in the best position possible for when we do see this kind of weather."The high winds are expected to subside late Wednesday night. Temperatures will cool off into the 40s and 50s for the rest of the week and into the weekend, but dry and sunny conditions are expected for the foreseeable future.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">A high wind *warning* has been issued for Wednesday for eastern Kansas into Northwest Missouri. Wind gusts up to 65 mph are expected Wednesday afternoon &amp; evening. <a href="https://t.co/XmNotpMDA6">pic.twitter.com/XmNotpMDA6</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1470717358515712003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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National Weather Service warns of damaging winds across Kansas, Missouri

A new report from Growth Energy Monday showcases nearly universal compatibility with fuel blended with 15 percent ethanol, or E15, among vehicles on the road today. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This report confirms that better access to lower-cost E15 could save motorists money on 98 percent of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States.” 

E15 is approved by the EPA for use in all light-duty vehicles model year 2001 and newer. 

Based on the current vehicle fleet and sales over the past year, the new report shows that E15 is approved for 96 percent of light-duty cars and trucks on the road, nearly 246 million vehicles. 

The data combines with other research illustrating that nationwide E15 could slash emissions by 17.62 million tons per year. The report was prepared by Air Improvement Resource, Inc., a leading engineering and consulting firm specializing in inventory modeling and analysis, at the request of Growth Energy.

A new report from Growth Energy Monday showcases nearly universal compatibility with fuel blended with 15 percent ethanol, or E15, among vehicles on the road today. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This report confirms that better access to lower-cost E15 could save motorists money on 98 percent of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States.” E15 is approved by the EPA for use in all light-duty vehicles model year 2001 and newer. Based on the current vehicle fleet and sales over the past year, the new report shows that E15 is approved for 96 percent of light-duty cars and trucks on the road, nearly 246 million vehicles. The data combines with other research illustrating that nationwide E15 could slash emissions by 17.62 million tons per year. The report was prepared by Air Improvement Resource, Inc., a leading engineering and consulting firm specializing in inventory modeling and analysis, at the request of Growth Energy.

Report: E15 ready to fuel 98 percent of U.S. miles traveled

Fertilizer prices continue to skyrocket, as much as 300 percent in some areas, as farmers grapple with increased costs as they prepare for the 2022 growing season. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation’s latest Market Intel examines the short- and long-term factors impacting fertilizer supply and demand. Farm Bureau economists found several elements are contributing to record-high prices. 

Those include Increased prices for raw nutrients, increased demand, higher energy costs, supply chain issues and trade duties.Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, "We urge the Biden administration to look for ways to bring fertilizer prices down, which include resolving supply chain disruptions and removing import duties." 

The Market Intel found that compared to September 2020 prices, ammonia has increased over 210 percent, liquid nitrogen has increased over 159 percent, urea is up 155 percent, MAP has increased 125 percent, while DAP is up over 100 percent, and potash has risen above 134 percent.

Fertilizer prices continue to skyrocket, as much as 300 percent in some areas, as farmers grapple with increased costs as they prepare for the 2022 growing season. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s latest Market Intel examines the short- and long-term factors impacting fertilizer supply and demand. Farm Bureau economists found several elements are contributing to record-high prices. Those include Increased prices for raw nutrients, increased demand, higher energy costs, supply chain issues and trade duties.Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says, "We urge the Biden administration to look for ways to bring fertilizer prices down, which include resolving supply chain disruptions and removing import duties." The Market Intel found that compared to September 2020 prices, ammonia has increased over 210 percent, liquid nitrogen has increased over 159 percent, urea is up 155 percent, MAP has increased 125 percent, while DAP is up over 100 percent, and potash has risen above 134 percent.

Farmers struggle with skyrocketing fertilizer prices

The Department of Agriculture Monday announced a new program to assist hog producers who faced reduced market prices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative and addresses gaps in previous assistance for hog producers. 

The program assists hog producers who sold hogs through a negotiated sale from April 16, 2020, through September 1, 2020. 

USDA is offering the program as packer production was reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic due to employee illness and supply chain issues, resulting in fewer negotiated hogs being procured and subsequent lower market prices. 

Payments will be calculated by multiplying the number of head of eligible hogs, not to exceed 10,000 head, by the payment rate of $54 per head. 

FSA will issue payments to eligible hog producers as applications are received and approved. Eligible hog producers can apply starting December 15, 2021, by contacting their local USDA Service Center.

The Department of Agriculture Monday announced a new program to assist hog producers who faced reduced market prices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative and addresses gaps in previous assistance for hog producers. The program assists hog producers who sold hogs through a negotiated sale from April 16, 2020, through September 1, 2020. USDA is offering the program as packer production was reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic due to employee illness and supply chain issues, resulting in fewer negotiated hogs being procured and subsequent lower market prices. Payments will be calculated by multiplying the number of head of eligible hogs, not to exceed 10,000 head, by the payment rate of $54 per head. FSA will issue payments to eligible hog producers as applications are received and approved. Eligible hog producers can apply starting December 15, 2021, by contacting their local USDA Service Center.

USDA provides additional Pandemic Assistance to hog producers 

The Consumer Price Index increased 0.8 percent in November after rising 0.9 percent in October. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released the data Friday. 

Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 6.8 percent before seasonal adjustment. The food index increased 0.7 percent in November after rising 0.9 percent in both September and October. 

The food at home index increased 0.8 percent in November as all six major grocery store food group indexes rose. The rise represents the third consecutive month that all six increased. The food at home index rose 6.4 percent over the past 12 months, the largest 12-month increase since December 2008. 

The food away from home index rose 0.6 percent in November, following a 0.8-percent increase the prior month. The index for limited-service meals continued to rise sharply, increasing 1.0 percent over the month, while the index for full-service meals rose 0.4 percent in November.&nbsp;

The Consumer Price Index increased 0.8 percent in November after rising 0.9 percent in October. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released the data Friday. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 6.8 percent before seasonal adjustment. The food index increased 0.7 percent in November after rising 0.9 percent in both September and October. The food at home index increased 0.8 percent in November as all six major grocery store food group indexes rose. The rise represents the third consecutive month that all six increased. The food at home index rose 6.4 percent over the past 12 months, the largest 12-month increase since December 2008. The food away from home index rose 0.6 percent in November, following a 0.8-percent increase the prior month. The index for limited-service meals continued to rise sharply, increasing 1.0 percent over the month, while the index for full-service meals rose 0.4 percent in November.&nbsp;

Consumer Price Index continues increase

The U.S. economy is poised to slow in 2022 relative to 2021, but economic growth will continue at an above-average pace. CoBank last week released its 2022 year ahead report, examining several key factors that impact agriculture and market sectors that serve rural communities. 

CoBank suggests the U.S. farm economy will continue to struggle with the ongoing supply chain dysfunction and cost inflation issues that emerged in the summer of 2021. 

Historically strong prices will be more than offset by increases in cost structure for nearly all crop production, including row crops, fruits and vegetables, and hay. 

CoBank economists do not anticipate any significant pullback in farm-level costs until the fall of 2022, at the earliest. The expected decline in direct government payments in 2022 will further squeeze farm income statements. The single biggest wildcard for U.S. agriculture is export sales to China, currently the largest export market for U.S. farm products.

The U.S. economy is poised to slow in 2022 relative to 2021, but economic growth will continue at an above-average pace. CoBank last week released its 2022 year ahead report, examining several key factors that impact agriculture and market sectors that serve rural communities. CoBank suggests the U.S. farm economy will continue to struggle with the ongoing supply chain dysfunction and cost inflation issues that emerged in the summer of 2021. Historically strong prices will be more than offset by increases in cost structure for nearly all crop production, including row crops, fruits and vegetables, and hay. CoBank economists do not anticipate any significant pullback in farm-level costs until the fall of 2022, at the earliest. The expected decline in direct government payments in 2022 will further squeeze farm income statements. The single biggest wildcard for U.S. agriculture is export sales to China, currently the largest export market for U.S. farm products.

CoBank releases 2022 year ahead economic report

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Friday announced the withdrawal of a 2016 proposed rule that would have amended the Horse Protection Act regulations. 

APHIS is making the development of a new and improved proposal a top regulatory priority. The action allows the agency to evaluate and consider more recent findings and research and incorporate the information into a new proposed rule. 

A 2021 National Academies of Sciences study examined the inspection methods used for identifying soreness in walking horses, new and emerging approaches for detecting pain, and use of the scar rule in determining compliance with the Horse Protection Act. 

The report also made several science-based recommendations that APHIS will consider. APHIS determined that the proposed rule does not sufficiently address the report's findings and believes that the 2016 proposed rule's underlying data should be updated. Following withdrawal of the 2016 proposed rule, APHIS intends to issue a new proposed rule quickly.

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Friday announced the withdrawal of a 2016 proposed rule that would have amended the Horse Protection Act regulations. APHIS is making the development of a new and improved proposal a top regulatory priority. The action allows the agency to evaluate and consider more recent findings and research and incorporate the information into a new proposed rule. A 2021 National Academies of Sciences study examined the inspection methods used for identifying soreness in walking horses, new and emerging approaches for detecting pain, and use of the scar rule in determining compliance with the Horse Protection Act. The report also made several science-based recommendations that APHIS will consider. APHIS determined that the proposed rule does not sufficiently address the report's findings and believes that the 2016 proposed rule's underlying data should be updated. Following withdrawal of the 2016 proposed rule, APHIS intends to issue a new proposed rule quickly.

USDA withdraws proposed Horse Protection Rule

Groups like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are pleased the House of Representatives passed two bills that provide producers with greater transparency in the cattle markets. 

The House voted 418-9 to advance legislation that would extend the authorization for Livestock Mandatory Reporting through September 30, 2022. 

The authorization for LMR is the most important tool cattle producers have for understanding transactions and trends in the cattle markets. By a 411-13 vote, the House also passed the Cattle Contract Library Act. “LMR is absolutely essential to fair, competitive, and transparent cattle markets,” says NCBA President Jerry Bohn. 

“We’re also grateful that producers will have access to vital market data through the cattle contract library.” NCBA also says the creation of a cattle contract library and reauthorization of LMR are both widely supported across the cattle and beef industry. The organization appreciates the heavy engagement of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle on the transparency issue.

Groups like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are pleased the House of Representatives passed two bills that provide producers with greater transparency in the cattle markets. The House voted 418-9 to advance legislation that would extend the authorization for Livestock Mandatory Reporting through September 30, 2022. The authorization for LMR is the most important tool cattle producers have for understanding transactions and trends in the cattle markets. By a 411-13 vote, the House also passed the Cattle Contract Library Act. “LMR is absolutely essential to fair, competitive, and transparent cattle markets,” says NCBA President Jerry Bohn. “We’re also grateful that producers will have access to vital market data through the cattle contract library.” NCBA also says the creation of a cattle contract library and reauthorization of LMR are both widely supported across the cattle and beef industry. The organization appreciates the heavy engagement of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle on the transparency issue.

House passes bills promoting livestock market transparency

The House passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to try and solve some of the challenges in the U.S. supply chain. 

In recent months, ocean liners from China and other countries have been returning to their home ports empty after delivering to the U.S., making it hard for U.S. agriculture to export commodities. 

Among the many functions of the legislation, it would prohibit ocean carriers from unreasonably declining opportunities, as determined by the Federal Maritime Commission in new required federal rulemaking. The U.S. Dairy Export Council, the National Milk Producers Federation, and other ag groups supported the bill. 

“This legislation would help alleviate delays and disruptions at U.S. ports that have cost the U.S. dairy industry well over $1 billion this year,” says the dairy groups. 

“Since late 2020, America’s dairy exporters have contended with challenges in securing shipping containers, record-high fees, and shipping access volatility, most of which is driven by foreign-owned carriers.”

The House passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to try and solve some of the challenges in the U.S. supply chain. In recent months, ocean liners from China and other countries have been returning to their home ports empty after delivering to the U.S., making it hard for U.S. agriculture to export commodities. Among the many functions of the legislation, it would prohibit ocean carriers from unreasonably declining opportunities, as determined by the Federal Maritime Commission in new required federal rulemaking. The U.S. Dairy Export Council, the National Milk Producers Federation, and other ag groups supported the bill. “This legislation would help alleviate delays and disruptions at U.S. ports that have cost the U.S. dairy industry well over $1 billion this year,” says the dairy groups. “Since late 2020, America’s dairy exporters have contended with challenges in securing shipping containers, record-high fees, and shipping access volatility, most of which is driven by foreign-owned carriers.”

House takes action on supply chain disruptions

Six national farm and biofuel organizations want the Environmental Protection Agency to enact regulations that help facilitate year-round sales of E15 nationwide. 

They’d like regulations that require lower-volatility conventional gasoline blend-stock in the summer. The groups say the move would result in lower tailpipe and evaporative emissions during the summer ozone control season and improve air quality. 

In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the groups say reducing the volatility of gasoline by just one pound per square inch would yield significant environmental benefits. 

They attached a new study using EPA modeling tools to the letter showing that reducing the vapor pressure of conventional gasoline blend-stock by 1 psi would be beneficial to air quality as carbon monoxide emissions, nitrogen oxides, and other volatile organic compounds would be reduced. 

If the 1-psi waiver for E10 is eliminated and E10 is replaced with E15, it will also decrease greenhouse gases and particulate emissions.

Six national farm and biofuel organizations want the Environmental Protection Agency to enact regulations that help facilitate year-round sales of E15 nationwide. They’d like regulations that require lower-volatility conventional gasoline blend-stock in the summer. The groups say the move would result in lower tailpipe and evaporative emissions during the summer ozone control season and improve air quality. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the groups say reducing the volatility of gasoline by just one pound per square inch would yield significant environmental benefits. They attached a new study using EPA modeling tools to the letter showing that reducing the vapor pressure of conventional gasoline blend-stock by 1 psi would be beneficial to air quality as carbon monoxide emissions, nitrogen oxides, and other volatile organic compounds would be reduced. If the 1-psi waiver for E10 is eliminated and E10 is replaced with E15, it will also decrease greenhouse gases and particulate emissions.