The Optimizing the Cattle Market Act of 2021 introduced in the House of Representatives Tuesday seeks to change cattle market dynamics. 

Introduced by Missouri Republican Representative Vicky Hartzler, the legislation would direct the Agriculture Department to create a cattle formula contracts library, and increase the reporting window for "cattle committed" from seven to 14 days. 

The measures, according to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, would increase transparency in the industry and improve the opportunity for robust price discovery. 

The legislation also reiterates the need for expedited reauthorization of USDA's Livestock Mandatory Reporting program. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane states, “Something needs to give,” referencing market volatility and a shifting regulatory landscape. 

The use of formulas and grids help producers manage risk and capture more value for their product, but depend upon price discovery that occurs in negotiated transactions. Current research has shown that more negotiated trade is needed to achieve “robust” price discovery within the industry.

The Optimizing the Cattle Market Act of 2021 introduced in the House of Representatives Tuesday seeks to change cattle market dynamics. Introduced by Missouri Republican Representative Vicky Hartzler, the legislation would direct the Agriculture Department to create a cattle formula contracts library, and increase the reporting window for "cattle committed" from seven to 14 days. The measures, according to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, would increase transparency in the industry and improve the opportunity for robust price discovery. The legislation also reiterates the need for expedited reauthorization of USDA's Livestock Mandatory Reporting program. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane states, “Something needs to give,” referencing market volatility and a shifting regulatory landscape. The use of formulas and grids help producers manage risk and capture more value for their product, but depend upon price discovery that occurs in negotiated transactions. Current research has shown that more negotiated trade is needed to achieve “robust” price discovery within the industry.

Additional cattle markets legislation introduced in U.S. House

The White House Tuesday announced a task force focused on short-term supply chain disruptions. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was named co-chair of the task force, along with the Secretaries of Commerce and Transportation. 

The Department of Agriculture says the task force will convene stakeholders to diagnose problems and find solutions that could help alleviate bottlenecks and supply constraints related to the economy’s reopening. 

Specifically, it will focus on areas where a mismatch between supply and demand has been evident, including homebuilding and construction, semiconductors, transportation, and agriculture and food. 

The White House also released key findings from a review stemming from a supply chain focused executive order. The 100-day study focuses on semiconductors, batteries for electric vehicles, critical minerals and materials and pharmaceuticals. 

The Interior Department and USDA, along with the Environmental Protection Agency, will also establish a working group. The group will identify sites where critical minerals could be produced and processed in the United States.

The White House Tuesday announced a task force focused on short-term supply chain disruptions. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was named co-chair of the task force, along with the Secretaries of Commerce and Transportation. The Department of Agriculture says the task force will convene stakeholders to diagnose problems and find solutions that could help alleviate bottlenecks and supply constraints related to the economy’s reopening. Specifically, it will focus on areas where a mismatch between supply and demand has been evident, including homebuilding and construction, semiconductors, transportation, and agriculture and food. The White House also released key findings from a review stemming from a supply chain focused executive order. The 100-day study focuses on semiconductors, batteries for electric vehicles, critical minerals and materials and pharmaceuticals. The Interior Department and USDA, along with the Environmental Protection Agency, will also establish a working group. The group will identify sites where critical minerals could be produced and processed in the United States.

White House task force to examine supply chain disruptions

A recent farming accident in Clinton County that left a three-year-old boy dead last Friday has local officials sharing a message of farm safety.

Authorities say a three-year-old boy was run over by a piece of farm implement near Holt&nbsp; on the evening of June 4. The incident is still under investigation. An <a href="https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/r58v4l?fbclid=IwAR2wBdosrB0cvm3QU7OVwlPswpKITzi_Q4gBJL9klriizOHrabA3xqrZJN8">online fundraiser</a> has since been set up for the family.

St. Joseph Safety and Health Council Executive Director Sheldon Lyon says his organization puts on an annual course called Safety Acres to teach area youth on multiple farm safety practices.

"What we do is we introduce kids to some of the dangers they may not realize," Lyon said. "Whether it's in a grain bin or with large machinery or pickup trucks around the farm. There's a lot of different ways kids can have good intentions, but get into trouble."

The course is put on in both St. Joseph and Maryville. The most recent ones occurred in late April and early May.

Lyon says as wheat and oats harvest gets going in late summer, more people will be on farm equipment and more equipment will be on roads.

"For this time of year, we certainly want to watch for those large pieces of machinery out on the roadway," said Lyon. "Because, they will go from one farm to the other. That means they'll have short stints out on the highways out there, and that means we need to be vigilant and watch for them."

Statistics from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health show there were over 250 farm-related incidents resulting in injury in Missouri from 2012-2018. Tractor-related deaths made up 57 percent of those.

Lyon says another common area of accidents on the farm is grain bins.

"The reason for that is children like to get in there and play in the grain and the grain gets crusted," he said. "Or, someone augers some grain out and then we have a death, or sometimes, multiple deaths. So, it's very important for kids to understand that bins are for grain and to be playing in."

Lyon says most farmers in the region and across the country have been in the industry for years and generally follow the proper safety guidelines. But just like in any industry that deals with large equipment, accidents can happen to anyone.

"Farmers have done this for decades and they know what they're doing," Lyon said. "But, sometimes, even the best intentions can equate to a tragedy if we're not careful."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620745642340.jpg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA recent farming accident in Clinton County that left a three-year-old boy dead last Friday has local officials sharing a message of farm safety.Authorities say a three-year-old boy was run over by a piece of farm implement near Holt&nbsp; on the evening of June 4. The incident is still under investigation. An <a href="https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/r58v4l?fbclid=IwAR2wBdosrB0cvm3QU7OVwlPswpKITzi_Q4gBJL9klriizOHrabA3xqrZJN8">online fundraiser</a> has since been set up for the family.St. Joseph Safety and Health Council Executive Director Sheldon Lyon says his organization puts on an annual course called Safety Acres to teach area youth on multiple farm safety practices."What we do is we introduce kids to some of the dangers they may not realize," Lyon said. "Whether it's in a grain bin or with large machinery or pickup trucks around the farm. There's a lot of different ways kids can have good intentions, but get into trouble."The course is put on in both St. Joseph and Maryville. The most recent ones occurred in late April and early May.Lyon says as wheat and oats harvest gets going in late summer, more people will be on farm equipment and more equipment will be on roads."For this time of year, we certainly want to watch for those large pieces of machinery out on the roadway," said Lyon. "Because, they will go from one farm to the other. That means they'll have short stints out on the highways out there, and that means we need to be vigilant and watch for them."Statistics from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health show there were over 250 farm-related incidents resulting in injury in Missouri from 2012-2018. Tractor-related deaths made up 57 percent of those.Lyon says another common area of accidents on the farm is grain bins."The reason for that is children like to get in there and play in the grain and the grain gets crusted," he said. "Or, someone augers some grain out and then we have a death, or sometimes, multiple deaths. So, it's very important for kids to understand that bins are for grain and to be playing in."Lyon says most farmers in the region and across the country have been in the industry for years and generally follow the proper safety guidelines. But just like in any industry that deals with large equipment, accidents can happen to anyone."Farmers have done this for decades and they know what they're doing," Lyon said. "But, sometimes, even the best intentions can equate to a tragedy if we're not careful."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Farm safety concerns rise in wake of three-year-old death in Clinton County

The foodservice industry is opening nationwide with relaxed restrictions following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, worker shortages are a growing problem, as restaurants must compete with better-paying jobs and unemployment benefits. 

Operators are raising wages, offering first-day bonuses and some McDonald's locations are even giving new employees iPhones. The foodservice sector provides significant demand for food and agriculture products, which shifted to home dining options or take out during the pandemic. 

Now, pent-up consumers are looking to dining out, but the sector is behind demand. Federal data shows the foodservice industry added 186,000 jobs last month. Restaurant Business Online reports restaurants now employ 10.8 million workers, recovering 4.5 million workers from the depths of the pandemic. 

However, the sector remains 1.5 million workers short of pre-pandemic highs. The labor force participation rate was 61.6 percent in May, 1.7 percent lower than last February, suggesting several people have left the workforce and are not yet returning.

The foodservice industry is opening nationwide with relaxed restrictions following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, worker shortages are a growing problem, as restaurants must compete with better-paying jobs and unemployment benefits. Operators are raising wages, offering first-day bonuses and some McDonald's locations are even giving new employees iPhones. The foodservice sector provides significant demand for food and agriculture products, which shifted to home dining options or take out during the pandemic. Now, pent-up consumers are looking to dining out, but the sector is behind demand. Federal data shows the foodservice industry added 186,000 jobs last month. Restaurant Business Online reports restaurants now employ 10.8 million workers, recovering 4.5 million workers from the depths of the pandemic. However, the sector remains 1.5 million workers short of pre-pandemic highs. The labor force participation rate was 61.6 percent in May, 1.7 percent lower than last February, suggesting several people have left the workforce and are not yet returning.

Food service sector needs workers to meet demand

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, over the weekend, met with Asia-Pacific trade ministers while also commenting on the U.S.-China trade relationship. 

Before the meeting, Tai said regarding trade with China, “It’s a relationship in trade that has been marked by significant imbalance -- that is in terms of performance, but also in terms of opportunity and openness of our markets to each other.” 

The number of talks between the U.S. and China appear to be increasing, with no public signs of progress, according to Bloomberg News.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tai met with members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, largely focusing on trade issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Of note, the members state, “While the agriculture sector has been resilient and international markets have remained relatively stable during the pandemic, it remains one of the most protected sectors in global trade.” The members say they share a view towards achieving substantial progressive reductions in support and protection for agricultural products.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, over the weekend, met with Asia-Pacific trade ministers while also commenting on the U.S.-China trade relationship. Before the meeting, Tai said regarding trade with China, “It’s a relationship in trade that has been marked by significant imbalance -- that is in terms of performance, but also in terms of opportunity and openness of our markets to each other.” The number of talks between the U.S. and China appear to be increasing, with no public signs of progress, according to Bloomberg News.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tai met with members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, largely focusing on trade issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of note, the members state, “While the agriculture sector has been resilient and international markets have remained relatively stable during the pandemic, it remains one of the most protected sectors in global trade.” The members say they share a view towards achieving substantial progressive reductions in support and protection for agricultural products.

USTR Tai participates in meeting with Asia Pacific trade partners

Agriculture educators this summer are sharing the story of FFA and agriculture education in their states and communities. More than 82 agricultural education teachers will continue to share the story as part of the National Teachers Ambassadors for FFA program. 

The program, which began in 2016, provides teachers with the tools to share information about FFA and agricultural education with their communities. Teachers selected for the program receive intensive training in June and July to learn and collaborate on educational resources. 

Similar to last year, this year’s training will be virtual. National FFA Organization chief program officer Christine White says, “Through this program, we equip teachers with the tools they need to be successful in not only developing future leaders but also in telling their stories.” 

The ambassadors will present workshops and work with teachers from across the country to brainstorm and share ideas. The ambassadors will also serve as a voice of the organization to teachers across the country.

Agriculture educators this summer are sharing the story of FFA and agriculture education in their states and communities. More than 82 agricultural education teachers will continue to share the story as part of the National Teachers Ambassadors for FFA program. The program, which began in 2016, provides teachers with the tools to share information about FFA and agricultural education with their communities. Teachers selected for the program receive intensive training in June and July to learn and collaborate on educational resources. Similar to last year, this year’s training will be virtual. National FFA Organization chief program officer Christine White says, “Through this program, we equip teachers with the tools they need to be successful in not only developing future leaders but also in telling their stories.” The ambassadors will present workshops and work with teachers from across the country to brainstorm and share ideas. The ambassadors will also serve as a voice of the organization to teachers across the country.

Teachers across the country share FFA and agriculture opportunities

The USDA says it will be investing up to $1 billion into the Emergency Food Assistance Program to help support and expand the emergency food network. The goal is to help food banks and local organizations serve their communities more reliably when the need arises. 

USDA will enter into cooperative agreements with state, tribal, and local entities to be more efficient in purchasing food from local producers and investing in infrastructure that enables partner organizations to reach underserved communities more effectively. National Farmers Union is pleased with the USDA announcement. NFU President Rob Larew says no one should have to worry about where their next meal might come from. 

“It doesn’t need to be that way,” he says. “Family farmers and ranchers work hard to feed their communities, and there is more than enough food to go around.” The organization says by strengthening the nutrition safety net, the administration’s initiative would help mitigate any hunger crisis in America. “It would also give our farmers more options for distributing the food they grow,” Larew says.

The USDA says it will be investing up to $1 billion into the Emergency Food Assistance Program to help support and expand the emergency food network. The goal is to help food banks and local organizations serve their communities more reliably when the need arises. USDA will enter into cooperative agreements with state, tribal, and local entities to be more efficient in purchasing food from local producers and investing in infrastructure that enables partner organizations to reach underserved communities more effectively. National Farmers Union is pleased with the USDA announcement. NFU President Rob Larew says no one should have to worry about where their next meal might come from. “It doesn’t need to be that way,” he says. “Family farmers and ranchers work hard to feed their communities, and there is more than enough food to go around.” The organization says by strengthening the nutrition safety net, the administration’s initiative would help mitigate any hunger crisis in America. “It would also give our farmers more options for distributing the food they grow,” Larew says.

USDA investing $1 Billion in emergency food assistance program

Emerging markets across the globe that are struggling to get COVID-19 vaccines may be in for yet another serious challenge: food inflation. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization said last week that its global food price index hit its highest mark since September of 2011. 

As groceries make up a bigger share of their inflation baskets, developing nations will be hit the hardest. For example, in the United Kingdom, food and non-alcoholic drinks make up nine percent of the averages family’s expenditures. However, in Kenya, it’s one-third of the total. 

A Reuters article says May’s increase was the biggest month-on-month jump since 2010, which might mean social unrest. The rapid tripling of rice prices in 2008 from Thailand, one of the biggest exporters in the world, sparked rioting in West Africa. The cereals part of the FAO index is just below 2008 levels. Experts say after the hardships caused by COVID-19, consumers in emerging markets likely will have lower tolerance levels for rapidly rising prices.

Emerging markets across the globe that are struggling to get COVID-19 vaccines may be in for yet another serious challenge: food inflation. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization said last week that its global food price index hit its highest mark since September of 2011. As groceries make up a bigger share of their inflation baskets, developing nations will be hit the hardest. For example, in the United Kingdom, food and non-alcoholic drinks make up nine percent of the averages family’s expenditures. However, in Kenya, it’s one-third of the total. A Reuters article says May’s increase was the biggest month-on-month jump since 2010, which might mean social unrest. The rapid tripling of rice prices in 2008 from Thailand, one of the biggest exporters in the world, sparked rioting in West Africa. The cereals part of the FAO index is just below 2008 levels. Experts say after the hardships caused by COVID-19, consumers in emerging markets likely will have lower tolerance levels for rapidly rising prices.

Global food prices hit highest mark in ten years

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the fiscal year 2021 will be a good year for American farm exports. In the latest quarterly agricultural trade forecast, the agency says farm exports will total $164 billion, which would be the highest total in history. 

“U.S. agricultural trade has proven extraordinarily resilient in the face of a global pandemic and economic contraction,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “It’s clear that trade remains a critical engine powering the agricultural economy and the U.S. economy as a whole.” 

The report projects an increase of $7 billion in trade since the February forecast. USDA notes key factors include record export volumes for several commodities, including corn, soybeans, livestock, poultry, and dairy products. Another major influence is the continued rising demand from China for American ag products. 

USDA predicts exports to China will be a historic $35 billion. Foreign demand for U.S. corn should remain strong amid unfavorable crop prospects in Brazil and other South American countries, driving projected export totals up another $3.2 billion since February’s forecast to $17.2 billion. Livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are also predicted to rise, while the only two commodities predicted to see a decline are horticultural exports and processed tree nuts.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the fiscal year 2021 will be a good year for American farm exports. In the latest quarterly agricultural trade forecast, the agency says farm exports will total $164 billion, which would be the highest total in history. “U.S. agricultural trade has proven extraordinarily resilient in the face of a global pandemic and economic contraction,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “It’s clear that trade remains a critical engine powering the agricultural economy and the U.S. economy as a whole.” The report projects an increase of $7 billion in trade since the February forecast. USDA notes key factors include record export volumes for several commodities, including corn, soybeans, livestock, poultry, and dairy products. Another major influence is the continued rising demand from China for American ag products. USDA predicts exports to China will be a historic $35 billion. Foreign demand for U.S. corn should remain strong amid unfavorable crop prospects in Brazil and other South American countries, driving projected export totals up another $3.2 billion since February’s forecast to $17.2 billion. Livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are also predicted to rise, while the only two commodities predicted to see a decline are horticultural exports and processed tree nuts.

USDA predicting record farm exports in 2021

Longtime St. Joseph Stockyards employee Greg Clement has many fond memories of his time with the Stockyards.

Clement recalls many memories at the St. Joseph Stockyards, but one of his fondest is how his future as an auctioneer began.

"My favorite memory was selling feeder pigs to start with and learning how to become an auctioneer." Clement says "I sold feeder pigs for the first three years with the St. Joe Stockyards, the first four actually, didn't draw a dime to do it but I learned to become an auctioneer"

But the best memory Clement adds is the day he began working full time.

"Really the best time I had was in 1987 when Jim Reynolds let me become a full time auctioneer working at the St. Joe Stockyards selling slaughter cattle." Clements says

Clement worked at the St Joseph Stockyards for 36 years and says that over the years as agriculture changed from livestock to producing more row crops, he saw his customer base shrink.  For instance, Clement says on his drive from his home in Skidmore to Tarkio, he had at least fifteen cattle customers between those two towns, but with the popularity of row crops and the shrinking cattle herds, supply has dimnished.

"That has shrunk to literally nothing, because about all those guys that had twenty to thirty to forty, fifty head of cows have gone strictly to row crop," Clement says " the shrinking cattle herds across Northwest Missouri, Southwest Iowa, Southeast Nebraska and Northeast Kansas, I mean it's definitely made a difference."

Clement can't help but make comparisons to the Kansas City Stockyards which closed in 1991 and the closing of the stockyards in Omaha. Clement points out the stockyards used to employ hundreds. but times changed, the cattle supply shrunk, and the city grew around them.

"Where Kansas City and St. Joe were originally, they said, built by the stockyards, I think more or less the cities outgrew the stockyards, literally outgrew the stockyards, and instead of a great asset they became a liability." Clement says. 

The St. Joseph Stockyards have been sold. It held it's last auction on May 19th. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622837610898.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Dionne Bertling" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Dionne Bertling</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLongtime St. Joseph Stockyards employee Greg Clement has many fond memories of his time with the Stockyards.Clement recalls many memories at the St. Joseph Stockyards, but one of his fondest is how his future as an auctioneer began."My favorite memory was selling feeder pigs to start with and learning how to become an auctioneer." Clement says "I sold feeder pigs for the first three years with the St. Joe Stockyards, the first four actually, didn't draw a dime to do it but I learned to become an auctioneer"But the best memory Clement adds is the day he began working full time."Really the best time I had was in 1987 when Jim Reynolds let me become a full time auctioneer working at the St. Joe Stockyards selling slaughter cattle." Clements saysClement worked at the St Joseph Stockyards for 36 years and says that over the years as agriculture changed from livestock to producing more row crops, he saw his customer base shrink. For instance, Clement says on his drive from his home in Skidmore to Tarkio, he had at least fifteen cattle customers between those two towns, but with the popularity of row crops and the shrinking cattle herds, supply has dimnished."That has shrunk to literally nothing, because about all those guys that had twenty to thirty to forty, fifty head of cows have gone strictly to row crop," Clement says " the shrinking cattle herds across Northwest Missouri, Southwest Iowa, Southeast Nebraska and Northeast Kansas, I mean it's definitely made a difference."Clement can't help but make comparisons to the Kansas City Stockyards which closed in 1991 and the closing of the stockyards in Omaha. Clement points out the stockyards used to employ hundreds. but times changed, the cattle supply shrunk, and the city grew around them."Where Kansas City and St. Joe were originally, they said, built by the stockyards, I think more or less the cities outgrew the stockyards, literally outgrew the stockyards, and instead of a great asset they became a liability." Clement says. The St. Joseph Stockyards have been sold. It held it's last auction on May 19th.

Longtime St. Joseph Stockyards employee looks back fondly on his time there

Minority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.

In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.

“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.

Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.

“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.

A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”

Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.

“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”

The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.

“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

By ROXANA HEGEMAN, Associated PressMinority farmers who for decades have faced systemic discrimination will begin to receive debt relief beginning in this month under what Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in decades.In an op-ed piece published in USA Today, Vilsack also called the debt relief a “major civil rights victory,” saying it responds to systemic discrimination perpetrated against farmers and ranchers of color by the Agriculture Department.“It is a historic move that will symbolize that USDA actually cares and that the Biden administration is doing whatever they can to mend fences and show the minority farmers that they do care about them during his administration,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-race-and-ethnicity-tom-vilsack-agriculture-barack-obama-669c46ed87d24d3d14692c4b89eb04de">Abraham Carpenter</a>, a 59-year-old Black farmer whose family grows fruits and vegetables on about 1,500 acres near Grady, Arkansas.Carpenter expects the debt relief will pay off about $200,000 in farm loans, freeing up money that can now be put toward farm operations like buying seed and equipment instead of making loan payments.“I know they have said it about a thousand times that they wanted to bring everybody together to make sure everybody was treated fairly. You can say it a million times., but until you show it nobody really believes it,” he said. “But this action of paying off debts for the minority farmers shows they actually do care about treating everybody fairly.”The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability under the American Rescue Plan Act for borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans. A subsequent notice for farmers with government-guaranteed agricultural loans held by private lenders will be published within 120 days.A provision in the pandemic relief law directs USDA to pay off the farm loans of nearly 16,000 minority farmers and begin to address racial equity challenges. It authorizes the Agriculture Department to pay up to 120% of direct and guaranteed loan outstanding balances for socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.“I’m feeling really good,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-discrimination-kansas-cultures-agriculture-871f463bcf1e1e4fac8aa3492f7c8264">Rod Bradshaw</a>, a 68-year-old Black farmer who raises wheat, cattle and milo on 2,000 acres near Jetmore, Kansas. “We knew it was coming, we didn’t know when.”Bradshaw, who has been farming since buying his first ground in 1976, has made several discrimination complaints with Agriculture Department over the years. He said he has four direct loans totaling more than $300,000 with USDA that he anticipates will be paid off under the debt relief plan.“It’s going to free us up and let us halfway conduct business as usual,” Bradshaw said upon learning of Friday’s announcement. “This has been going on for so long, this is the first step of getting Black farmers and farmers of color back to where they need to be.”The Agriculture Department said in its news release that for much of its history, socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers have faced discrimination, sometimes overt and sometimes through deeply embedded rules and policies.“USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan to increase opportunity, advance equity and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs,” Vilsack said.

USDA begins paying off loans of minority farmers 

The American Farm Bureau Federation joined all 50 state Farm Bureaus and Puerto Rico Farm Bureau sent a letter to the Biden Administration regarding the country’s southern border. They’re asking the White House to address the surge of undocumented immigrants entering the United States. 

The increase in illegal immigration is severely impacting farm and ranch families, putting property and personal safety at risk. The letter was sent to the Secretaries of Homeland Security, USDA, and the Interior Department. 

“We’ve been listening to the concerns of our members and hearing how their livelihoods are being affected by the surge at the border,” the letter says.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Farmers are sharing how their crops and property are being damaged, which is causing financial hardship.” 

Farm Bureau says landowners are seeing their fences cut, crops destroyed, water sources compromised, vandalism, and litter on their property. The letter points out that local and state border security resources are exhausted and ask the federal government to provide additional resources to secure the border.

The American Farm Bureau Federation joined all 50 state Farm Bureaus and Puerto Rico Farm Bureau sent a letter to the Biden Administration regarding the country’s southern border. They’re asking the White House to address the surge of undocumented immigrants entering the United States. The increase in illegal immigration is severely impacting farm and ranch families, putting property and personal safety at risk. The letter was sent to the Secretaries of Homeland Security, USDA, and the Interior Department. “We’ve been listening to the concerns of our members and hearing how their livelihoods are being affected by the surge at the border,” the letter says.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Farmers are sharing how their crops and property are being damaged, which is causing financial hardship.” Farm Bureau says landowners are seeing their fences cut, crops destroyed, water sources compromised, vandalism, and litter on their property. The letter points out that local and state border security resources are exhausted and ask the federal government to provide additional resources to secure the border.

Farm Bureau urging administration to address southern border crisis

JBS employees began to return to work on Wednesday at U.S. meat plants, one day after the company’s beef operations stopped following a cyber-attack. The attack disrupted meat production in North America and Australia. 

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that a Russian-linked hacking group is behind the cyber-attack against JBS. Brazil’s JBS controls approximately 20 percent of the cattle and hog slaughter capacity in the U.S. Getting the plants back in operation should prevent a severe disruption to the American supply chain. 

The world’s largest meat packer, JBS said Wednesday that most operations had already resumed, including all their pork, poultry, and prepared foods facilities around the world. That included most the company’s beef facilities in the U.S. and Australia. 

The company’s chief executive issued a statement saying they already anticipated being close to full capacity across their global operations by Thursday. The attack followed one last month by a group with ties to Russia on the Colonial Pipeline, the largest fuel pipeline in the U.S. The attacks will be discussed at President Biden’s mid-June summit with President Vladimir Putin of Russia.

JBS employees began to return to work on Wednesday at U.S. meat plants, one day after the company’s beef operations stopped following a cyber-attack. The attack disrupted meat production in North America and Australia. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that a Russian-linked hacking group is behind the cyber-attack against JBS. Brazil’s JBS controls approximately 20 percent of the cattle and hog slaughter capacity in the U.S. Getting the plants back in operation should prevent a severe disruption to the American supply chain. The world’s largest meat packer, JBS said Wednesday that most operations had already resumed, including all their pork, poultry, and prepared foods facilities around the world. That included most the company’s beef facilities in the U.S. and Australia. The company’s chief executive issued a statement saying they already anticipated being close to full capacity across their global operations by Thursday. The attack followed one last month by a group with ties to Russia on the Colonial Pipeline, the largest fuel pipeline in the U.S. The attacks will be discussed at President Biden’s mid-June summit with President Vladimir Putin of Russia.

JBS plants reopening after cyber attack

House Ag Committee Chair David Scott (D-GA) sent a letter to President Biden regarding his American Jobs Plan and American Family Plan. While he supports the historic nature of the plans, he’s unhappy with some of Biden’s tax proposals to help pay for the plans. 

Scott says the tax plan will likely hurt farmers even though the tax liability would be put off as long as a farm stays within the same family. “In particular, the stepped-up basis is a critical tool enabling family farming operations to continue from generation to generation,” Scott says in the letter. 

“The potential for capital gains to be imposed on heirs at death of the landowner would impose a significant financial burden on these operations.” As he understands the exemptions, they would delay the tax liability for those continuing the farming operation until the time of sale, which could result in further consolidation in farmland ownership. 

That would make it more difficult for young or socially disadvantaged farmers to get into the business. “While I appreciate that the proposal provides for some exemptions, the provisions could still result in significant tax burdens on many family farming operations,” Scott adds in the letter to Biden.

House Ag Committee Chair David Scott (D-GA) sent a letter to President Biden regarding his American Jobs Plan and American Family Plan. While he supports the historic nature of the plans, he’s unhappy with some of Biden’s tax proposals to help pay for the plans. Scott says the tax plan will likely hurt farmers even though the tax liability would be put off as long as a farm stays within the same family. “In particular, the stepped-up basis is a critical tool enabling family farming operations to continue from generation to generation,” Scott says in the letter. “The potential for capital gains to be imposed on heirs at death of the landowner would impose a significant financial burden on these operations.” As he understands the exemptions, they would delay the tax liability for those continuing the farming operation until the time of sale, which could result in further consolidation in farmland ownership. That would make it more difficult for young or socially disadvantaged farmers to get into the business. “While I appreciate that the proposal provides for some exemptions, the provisions could still result in significant tax burdens on many family farming operations,” Scott adds in the letter to Biden.

House ag chair opposes Biden tax proposals

The World Pork Expo makes an official return to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, June 9-11. The National Pork Producers Council presents the Expo, and this year will mark the 33rd annual event. Thousands of producers and industry professionals will gather to learn about the latest technologies, innovations, enjoy some free pork, and much more. 

“We’re so excited to gather for the first time since 2018,” says NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “This year’s Expo has an outstanding lineup of seminars, networking opportunities, and more that aren’t to be missed.” The trade show will feature over 700 vendor booths and span more than 30,000 square feet. 

Companies from North America and around the world will be presenting products and services during the event. The Expo will feature 19 educational sessions, including 13 business seminars to inform attendees about ecosystems, new production systems, climate neutrality, and more. 

Six Pork Academy seminars will give producers a chance to learn more about nutrition, sustainability, data collection, and more. Attendees who missed the chance to register online can register there at the event by going to the Animal Learning Center.

The World Pork Expo makes an official return to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, June 9-11. The National Pork Producers Council presents the Expo, and this year will mark the 33rd annual event. Thousands of producers and industry professionals will gather to learn about the latest technologies, innovations, enjoy some free pork, and much more. “We’re so excited to gather for the first time since 2018,” says NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “This year’s Expo has an outstanding lineup of seminars, networking opportunities, and more that aren’t to be missed.” The trade show will feature over 700 vendor booths and span more than 30,000 square feet. Companies from North America and around the world will be presenting products and services during the event. The Expo will feature 19 educational sessions, including 13 business seminars to inform attendees about ecosystems, new production systems, climate neutrality, and more. Six Pork Academy seminars will give producers a chance to learn more about nutrition, sustainability, data collection, and more. Attendees who missed the chance to register online can register there at the event by going to the Animal Learning Center.

World Pork Expo returns next week

POET announced it has acquired Flint Hills Resources’ entire ethanol business. Reuters says that highlights the largest American biofuel producer’s bet that conventional renewable fuels like corn-based ethanol will play a big role in the push to reduce U.S. carbon emissions. 

The company says the deal will boost POET’s ethanol production capacity by 40 percent to three billion gallons annually. “Biofuels are one of the best near-term solutions to climate change,” says POET founder and Chief Executive Jeff Broin. “We don’t have decades to wait, and biofuels are already here today.” 

The acquisition includes six biofuel processing facilities that are in Iowa and Nebraska, as well as two terminals in Texas and Georgia. POET, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will now operate 33 biofuel processing operations in eight states. 

Flint Hills is a refining, biofuels, and petrochemical company based in Wichita, Kansas. It was the fifth-largest ethanol producer in America before the acquisition. The deal will also boost POET’s dried distiller’s grain production to seven million tons a year and its corn oil production to 975 million pounds annually.

POET announced it has acquired Flint Hills Resources’ entire ethanol business. Reuters says that highlights the largest American biofuel producer’s bet that conventional renewable fuels like corn-based ethanol will play a big role in the push to reduce U.S. carbon emissions. The company says the deal will boost POET’s ethanol production capacity by 40 percent to three billion gallons annually. “Biofuels are one of the best near-term solutions to climate change,” says POET founder and Chief Executive Jeff Broin. “We don’t have decades to wait, and biofuels are already here today.” The acquisition includes six biofuel processing facilities that are in Iowa and Nebraska, as well as two terminals in Texas and Georgia. POET, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will now operate 33 biofuel processing operations in eight states. Flint Hills is a refining, biofuels, and petrochemical company based in Wichita, Kansas. It was the fifth-largest ethanol producer in America before the acquisition. The deal will also boost POET’s dried distiller’s grain production to seven million tons a year and its corn oil production to 975 million pounds annually.

POET Ethanol expands business by 40 percent

The latest federal data shows that the farmers’ share of the average U.S. food dollar increased slightly. The USDA’s Economic Research Service tracks yearly spending by American consumers on food, as well as how much of that dollar is captured by each part of the food supply chain. 

The agency recently released data for 2019 showing that the foodservice industry continues to claim a growing part of the average food dollar, increasing three percent to 38.5 cents in 2019. 

Farm production was the only other part of the food chain that saw its share of the food dollar increase, but that increase wasn’t a large one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wisconsin Farmer Dot Com says the farmers’ share of the food dollar rose from a 25-year low of 7.4 cents in 2018 to 7.6 cents the following year. 

Paul Mitchell, director of the Renk Agribusiness Institute at the University of Wisconsin, says he was surprised by the slight increase after years of decline. “I think part of it was the foodservice side got saturated,” he says. “It couldn’t get any bigger and the farmer share got so low it had to go upward. Once you hit rock bottom, there’s nowhere to go but up.”

The latest federal data shows that the farmers’ share of the average U.S. food dollar increased slightly. The USDA’s Economic Research Service tracks yearly spending by American consumers on food, as well as how much of that dollar is captured by each part of the food supply chain. The agency recently released data for 2019 showing that the foodservice industry continues to claim a growing part of the average food dollar, increasing three percent to 38.5 cents in 2019. Farm production was the only other part of the food chain that saw its share of the food dollar increase, but that increase wasn’t a large one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wisconsin Farmer Dot Com says the farmers’ share of the food dollar rose from a 25-year low of 7.4 cents in 2018 to 7.6 cents the following year. Paul Mitchell, director of the Renk Agribusiness Institute at the University of Wisconsin, says he was surprised by the slight increase after years of decline. “I think part of it was the foodservice side got saturated,” he says. “It couldn’t get any bigger and the farmer share got so low it had to go upward. Once you hit rock bottom, there’s nowhere to go but up.”

Farmer share of food dollar may grow

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association led a letter supported by 37 affiliate state cattle associations, urging Congress to address critical areas of concern in the cattle and beef industries. They’re asking leaders of both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to consider swift Congressional action in several areas, such as expanding beef processing capacity. 

They also want to broaden labor policies to strengthen the beef processing workforce, increase transparency in cattle markets by reauthorizing Livestock Mandatory Reporting, and they want Congress to support industry efforts to reform “Product of the USA” generic labeling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They also want Congress to ensure proper oversight of cattle market players by concluding the ongoing U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into the meatpacking sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Cattle producers across the country are frustrated, and with good reason,” says NCBA President Jerry Bohn. “In sale barns and state meetings across the country, we’re hearing the same story of sky-high input costs and intense market volatility.” 

As much of the country comes out of COVID-19 restrictions, consumer demand for U.S. beef remains strong, and producers have enough cattle to meet the demand. The profits from high boxed beef prices are not being passed on to the producers who supply the live cattle.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association led a letter supported by 37 affiliate state cattle associations, urging Congress to address critical areas of concern in the cattle and beef industries. They’re asking leaders of both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to consider swift Congressional action in several areas, such as expanding beef processing capacity. They also want to broaden labor policies to strengthen the beef processing workforce, increase transparency in cattle markets by reauthorizing Livestock Mandatory Reporting, and they want Congress to support industry efforts to reform “Product of the USA” generic labeling.&nbsp;&nbsp;They also want Congress to ensure proper oversight of cattle market players by concluding the ongoing U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into the meatpacking sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Cattle producers across the country are frustrated, and with good reason,” says NCBA President Jerry Bohn. “In sale barns and state meetings across the country, we’re hearing the same story of sky-high input costs and intense market volatility.” As much of the country comes out of COVID-19 restrictions, consumer demand for U.S. beef remains strong, and producers have enough cattle to meet the demand. The profits from high boxed beef prices are not being passed on to the producers who supply the live cattle.

NCBA pushing Congress to address areas of concern

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — South Dakota-based ethanol company POET has purchased the biofuels assets of Flint Hills Resources, including five ethanol plants in Iowa and one in Nebraska.

The deal announced Tuesday also includes ethanol distribution terminals in Texas and Georgia.

POET, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is increasing its production to 33 biofuels production plants in eight states and will have a capacity to produce 3 billion gallons annually.

The Iowa ethanol plants are in Arthur, Fairbank, Iowa Falls, Menlo and Shell Rock. The Nebraska plant is in Fremont, and the ethanol terminals are in Buda, Texas, and Camilla, Georgia.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — South Dakota-based ethanol company POET has purchased the biofuels assets of Flint Hills Resources, including five ethanol plants in Iowa and one in Nebraska.The deal announced Tuesday also includes ethanol distribution terminals in Texas and Georgia.POET, based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is increasing its production to 33 biofuels production plants in eight states and will have a capacity to produce 3 billion gallons annually.The Iowa ethanol plants are in Arthur, Fairbank, Iowa Falls, Menlo and Shell Rock. The Nebraska plant is in Fremont, and the ethanol terminals are in Buda, Texas, and Camilla, Georgia.

Ethanol maker POET buys plants from Koch-owned Flint Hills

The U.S. Soybean Export Council is continuing its work to develop new markets for U.S. soy. One of those new regions is Sub-Saharan Africa, the area south of the Sahara Desert consisting of more than 50 countries. 

USSEC says the region demonstrates a lot of factors that make it a valuable potential soy market. There’s a growing population that exceeds one billion, and it’s expected to double in size by 2050. That makes Sub-Saharan Africa one of the most substantial “frontier markets” in the world. 

The economic conditions in the region are getting stronger, with the annual GDP growth rates between 2 and 6.5 percent. Projections for the recovery and growth in the region are positive coming out of COVID-19 during 2020. People in the region are also taking steps to address protein deficiency as awareness, knowledge, and investment to combat the shortage continue to grow. 

USSEC says the African Development Bank Group is working to increase livestock ownership to help fill in dietary gaps and make an impact on nutrition in the region. Soybeans will play a key role in helping produce protein sources like milk, eggs, and fish.

The U.S. Soybean Export Council is continuing its work to develop new markets for U.S. soy. One of those new regions is Sub-Saharan Africa, the area south of the Sahara Desert consisting of more than 50 countries. USSEC says the region demonstrates a lot of factors that make it a valuable potential soy market. There’s a growing population that exceeds one billion, and it’s expected to double in size by 2050. That makes Sub-Saharan Africa one of the most substantial “frontier markets” in the world. The economic conditions in the region are getting stronger, with the annual GDP growth rates between 2 and 6.5 percent. Projections for the recovery and growth in the region are positive coming out of COVID-19 during 2020. People in the region are also taking steps to address protein deficiency as awareness, knowledge, and investment to combat the shortage continue to grow. USSEC says the African Development Bank Group is working to increase livestock ownership to help fill in dietary gaps and make an impact on nutrition in the region. Soybeans will play a key role in helping produce protein sources like milk, eggs, and fish.

New market for U.S. soybeans emerging in Africa

Further strengthening of the U.S. ag economy bolstered farm credit conditions in the first quarter of 2021. A Federal Reserve survey of agriculture credit conditions shows farm loan repayment rates continue to improve rapidly. 

After many years of growing financial stress and weakness in the ag economy, bankers reported that farm income was higher than a year ago for the second consecutive quarter, and demand for farm loans weakened. Interest rates on farm loans remained at historic lows during the quarter. 

Along with the better financial conditions, the lower interest rates helped to support widespread increases in farmland values. Stronger markets for most of the major commodities have led to higher prices and expanding profit opportunities across the sector in recent months. 

With the help of robust government support due to COVID-19, ag sector conditions have led to a rapid improvement in farm finances. While prospects aren’t as strong in the cattle industry, and drought continues to stress producers in many areas of rural America, the overall outlook for farm income and credit conditions remained significantly improved from recent years.

Further strengthening of the U.S. ag economy bolstered farm credit conditions in the first quarter of 2021. A Federal Reserve survey of agriculture credit conditions shows farm loan repayment rates continue to improve rapidly. After many years of growing financial stress and weakness in the ag economy, bankers reported that farm income was higher than a year ago for the second consecutive quarter, and demand for farm loans weakened. Interest rates on farm loans remained at historic lows during the quarter. Along with the better financial conditions, the lower interest rates helped to support widespread increases in farmland values. Stronger markets for most of the major commodities have led to higher prices and expanding profit opportunities across the sector in recent months. With the help of robust government support due to COVID-19, ag sector conditions have led to a rapid improvement in farm finances. While prospects aren’t as strong in the cattle industry, and drought continues to stress producers in many areas of rural America, the overall outlook for farm income and credit conditions remained significantly improved from recent years.

Regional farm credit conditions improving

Corn sales to overseas buyers rose while beans and wheat sales dropped during the seven days ending on May 20. The USDA says corn sales totaled 555,900 metric tons, up from almost 278,000 metric tons a week prior. Mexico was the big buyer at just over 378,000 metric tons, while China bought 168,000. 

The USDA report says unnamed countries canceled shipments worth 70,500 metric tons. Sales for the 2021-2022 marketing year that begins on September 1 were reported at 5.69 million metric tons. China bought 5.64 million tons, followed by Panama at just shy of 132,000 tons. 

But the agency says large cancellations expected during the week ending on May 20 didn’t materialize. Exports for the week hit 529,000 tons, down seven percent from the prior week. Soybean sales dropped 34 percent from the previous week, coming in at 55,900 metric tons. That number was 65 percent lower than the previous four-week average. 

Indonesia was the top buyer at 74,900 metric tons. For the 2021-22 marketing year, sales totaled 248,300 tons as Mexico bought 162,500. Exports totaled 294,600 tons, down 12 percent from the previous week. Wheat sales for delivery in the 2020-2021 marketing year that ended on May 31 fell 76 percent to 29,500 metric tons.

Corn sales to overseas buyers rose while beans and wheat sales dropped during the seven days ending on May 20. The USDA says corn sales totaled 555,900 metric tons, up from almost 278,000 metric tons a week prior. Mexico was the big buyer at just over 378,000 metric tons, while China bought 168,000. The USDA report says unnamed countries canceled shipments worth 70,500 metric tons. Sales for the 2021-2022 marketing year that begins on September 1 were reported at 5.69 million metric tons. China bought 5.64 million tons, followed by Panama at just shy of 132,000 tons. But the agency says large cancellations expected during the week ending on May 20 didn’t materialize. Exports for the week hit 529,000 tons, down seven percent from the prior week. Soybean sales dropped 34 percent from the previous week, coming in at 55,900 metric tons. That number was 65 percent lower than the previous four-week average. Indonesia was the top buyer at 74,900 metric tons. For the 2021-22 marketing year, sales totaled 248,300 tons as Mexico bought 162,500. Exports totaled 294,600 tons, down 12 percent from the previous week. Wheat sales for delivery in the 2020-2021 marketing year that ended on May 31 fell 76 percent to 29,500 metric tons.

Corn exports sales jump while bean and wheat sales fall

Brazil faces its worst drought in 91 years, causing the government to issue a drought alert. Late last week, an agency that’s a part of the Brazil Mines and Energy Ministry recommended the country’s water regulator to recognize a state of “water scarcity” after a prolonged drought-hit central and southern parts of the Parana River basin. 

Financialpost.com says a weather monitoring agency that’s part of the Agriculture Ministry issued its first “emergency drought alert” for June through September, saying that rains are likely to remain scarce in five Brazilian states during that period. 

The lack of rain across Brazil is hurting their agricultural commodities, livestock, and electricity generation as Brazil relies heavily on hydro dams for power. Drier-than-normal weather is especially hard on the second-corn crop, sugar, and coffee. Coffee futures recently hit a four-year high as traders are concerned that drought could even affect the 2022 crop. 

As they try to deal with the trouble, the Mines and Energy Ministry announced measures aimed at adjusting water levels that supply the country’s hydro dams to try and prevent power shortages.

Brazil faces its worst drought in 91 years, causing the government to issue a drought alert. Late last week, an agency that’s a part of the Brazil Mines and Energy Ministry recommended the country’s water regulator to recognize a state of “water scarcity” after a prolonged drought-hit central and southern parts of the Parana River basin. Financialpost.com says a weather monitoring agency that’s part of the Agriculture Ministry issued its first “emergency drought alert” for June through September, saying that rains are likely to remain scarce in five Brazilian states during that period. The lack of rain across Brazil is hurting their agricultural commodities, livestock, and electricity generation as Brazil relies heavily on hydro dams for power. Drier-than-normal weather is especially hard on the second-corn crop, sugar, and coffee. Coffee futures recently hit a four-year high as traders are concerned that drought could even affect the 2022 crop. As they try to deal with the trouble, the Mines and Energy Ministry announced measures aimed at adjusting water levels that supply the country’s hydro dams to try and prevent power shortages.

Brazil drought worst in 91 years

The Department of Agriculture will not appeal a federal district court ruling on faster line speeds in slaughterhouses. USDA told the Hagstrom Report that only the Justice Department can make a decision about the appeal. 

The comments came less than a day after the National Pork Producers Council urged USDA to intervene in the matter before the ruling takes effect at the end of next month. 

NPPC cites an analysis by an Iowa State University economist that shows the ruling will result in a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing plant capacity nationwide and more than $80 million in reduced income for small U.S. hog farmers. 

However, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union praised the response from USDA. The union represents over 250,000 meatpacking and food processing workers. UFCW International President Marc Perrone says, “UFCW is calling on CEOs across the pork industry to work with the USDA to slow their line speeds.”

The Department of Agriculture will not appeal a federal district court ruling on faster line speeds in slaughterhouses. USDA told the Hagstrom Report that only the Justice Department can make a decision about the appeal. The comments came less than a day after the National Pork Producers Council urged USDA to intervene in the matter before the ruling takes effect at the end of next month. NPPC cites an analysis by an Iowa State University economist that shows the ruling will result in a 2.5 percent loss in pork packing plant capacity nationwide and more than $80 million in reduced income for small U.S. hog farmers. However, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union praised the response from USDA. The union represents over 250,000 meatpacking and food processing workers. UFCW International President Marc Perrone says, “UFCW is calling on CEOs across the pork industry to work with the USDA to slow their line speeds.”

USDA not appealing court decision on pork slaughter line speeds

Environmental groups have asked a federal court to vacate the Navigable Waters Protection Act enacted during the Trump Administration. The motion for a summary judgment comes as the Biden administration continues to review the existing water rule. 

DTN says the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League filed the motion in a South Carolina U.S. District Court. They asked the court to vacate the rule based on what they call undisputed facts, including what they say has been lost protection for U.S. waters. 

In its motion, the Coastal Conservation League says the Army Corps of Engineers has been “flooded” with requests to get approved jurisdictional determinations securing the right to “pollute or fill newly excluded streams and wetlands free of the Clean Water Act’s permitting regulations.” 

They say in the past year that the law has been in effect, the rule’s threat to the nation’s waters has already been profound. However, agriculture groups support the current rule because they say it simplifies questions about the Clean Water Act jurisdiction that farmers face on their land. 

The groups call the Trump-era rule an “arbitrary policy reversal” that removed the Clean Water Act’s protections for millions of miles of streams and tens of millions of wetland acres.

Environmental groups have asked a federal court to vacate the Navigable Waters Protection Act enacted during the Trump Administration. The motion for a summary judgment comes as the Biden administration continues to review the existing water rule. DTN says the South Carolina Coastal Conservation League filed the motion in a South Carolina U.S. District Court. They asked the court to vacate the rule based on what they call undisputed facts, including what they say has been lost protection for U.S. waters. In its motion, the Coastal Conservation League says the Army Corps of Engineers has been “flooded” with requests to get approved jurisdictional determinations securing the right to “pollute or fill newly excluded streams and wetlands free of the Clean Water Act’s permitting regulations.” They say in the past year that the law has been in effect, the rule’s threat to the nation’s waters has already been profound. However, agriculture groups support the current rule because they say it simplifies questions about the Clean Water Act jurisdiction that farmers face on their land. The groups call the Trump-era rule an “arbitrary policy reversal” that removed the Clean Water Act’s protections for millions of miles of streams and tens of millions of wetland acres.