The U.S. International Trade Commission says that fresh, chilled, or frozen blueberries are not being imported into the U.S. at a fast enough rate to cause injury to domestic producers. 

“As a result of today’s vote, the investigation will end, and the Commission won’t recommend a remedy to the President,” the USITC says in a release. The decision is a win for blueberry exporters that target the U.S., such as Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Canada. 

The American Farm Bureau says the ITC failed to recognize the damage that certain imports are doing to American farmers. “Seasonal fruit and vegetable farmers face unfair competition from foreign growers, and today’s decision demonstrates that much work still needs to be done to address international trade imbalances,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. 

“Importing blueberries during the U.S. harvest season leads to lower prices for domestic growers, who are price-takers and not price-makers. They need time to adjust their operations to increased import levels.” 

The Farm Bureau says it will continue to work with the USDA, U.S. Trade Representative, and the Department of Commerce to find meaningful assistance for America’s domestic blueberry industry and make sure U.S. farmers get a fair price for the food they grow.

The U.S. International Trade Commission says that fresh, chilled, or frozen blueberries are not being imported into the U.S. at a fast enough rate to cause injury to domestic producers. “As a result of today’s vote, the investigation will end, and the Commission won’t recommend a remedy to the President,” the USITC says in a release. The decision is a win for blueberry exporters that target the U.S., such as Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Canada. The American Farm Bureau says the ITC failed to recognize the damage that certain imports are doing to American farmers. “Seasonal fruit and vegetable farmers face unfair competition from foreign growers, and today’s decision demonstrates that much work still needs to be done to address international trade imbalances,” says AFB President Zippy Duvall. “Importing blueberries during the U.S. harvest season leads to lower prices for domestic growers, who are price-takers and not price-makers. They need time to adjust their operations to increased import levels.” The Farm Bureau says it will continue to work with the USDA, U.S. Trade Representative, and the Department of Commerce to find meaningful assistance for America’s domestic blueberry industry and make sure U.S. farmers get a fair price for the food they grow.

Farm Bureau disappointed in blueberry ruling

A new survey from Farm Futures shows that U.S. corn producers will increase their acreage by 4.1 percent compared to last year. The projected total is 94.7 million acres of corn this year. 

If farmers reach that number, that will put 2021 corn acreage at its third-highest amount over the past 75 years, trailing only 2012 at 97.3 million acres and 2013’s 95.4 million. A conservative trendline yield estimate of 177.4 bushels per acre would put corn production at 15.3 billion bushels. 

That would top the record of 15.1 million bushels harvested in 2016, which was the highest U.S. corn output ever recorded. While the January 2021 survey shows farmers favoring more corn planting this spring, planting intentions for both corn and soybeans are higher than 2020 levels. 

Plus, a good number of farmers plan to stick with their normal crop rotation. The Farm Futures survey shows farmers will increase soybean acres by 1.4 million, to 84.5 million. 

Uncertainty remains as farmers look ahead, ranging from dry South American weather forecasts to Chinese demand and pandemic-induced volatility. The survey says farmers are betting on a post-COVID recovery that boosts ethanol output and rising global export demand.

A new survey from Farm Futures shows that U.S. corn producers will increase their acreage by 4.1 percent compared to last year. The projected total is 94.7 million acres of corn this year. If farmers reach that number, that will put 2021 corn acreage at its third-highest amount over the past 75 years, trailing only 2012 at 97.3 million acres and 2013’s 95.4 million. A conservative trendline yield estimate of 177.4 bushels per acre would put corn production at 15.3 billion bushels. That would top the record of 15.1 million bushels harvested in 2016, which was the highest U.S. corn output ever recorded. While the January 2021 survey shows farmers favoring more corn planting this spring, planting intentions for both corn and soybeans are higher than 2020 levels. Plus, a good number of farmers plan to stick with their normal crop rotation. The Farm Futures survey shows farmers will increase soybean acres by 1.4 million, to 84.5 million. Uncertainty remains as farmers look ahead, ranging from dry South American weather forecasts to Chinese demand and pandemic-induced volatility. The survey says farmers are betting on a post-COVID recovery that boosts ethanol output and rising global export demand.

Farm futures survey shows farmers planting more corn in 2021

The agriculture economy rebounded in the fourth quarter of 2020, according to the latest Ag Credit Survey from the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank. The average price of grains increased more than 20 percent from the previous quarter and reached six-year highs in December. 

Livestock prices, while still less than a year ago, also improved from lows reached earlier in the year. Government payments provided broad support through the year, and, together with recent price increases, the near-term outlook for the farm sector improved dramatically. 

The survey represents conditions in the Federal Reserve’s Tenth District, including Colorado, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Wyoming. 

A majority of bankers in the District indicated that farm income was higher than a year ago for the first time in eight years, boosting liquidity and loan repayment capacity and providing renewed support for farm real estate. Overall, agricultural conditions in the first quarter of 2021 in the Kansas City Fed region were poised to remain strong for the first time since 2013.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613145806500.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Preston Keres/USDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Preston Keres/USDA</figcaption>
 </figure>The agriculture economy rebounded in the fourth quarter of 2020, according to the latest Ag Credit Survey from the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank. The average price of grains increased more than 20 percent from the previous quarter and reached six-year highs in December. Livestock prices, while still less than a year ago, also improved from lows reached earlier in the year. Government payments provided broad support through the year, and, together with recent price increases, the near-term outlook for the farm sector improved dramatically. The survey represents conditions in the Federal Reserve’s Tenth District, including Colorado, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Wyoming. A majority of bankers in the District indicated that farm income was higher than a year ago for the first time in eight years, boosting liquidity and loan repayment capacity and providing renewed support for farm real estate. Overall, agricultural conditions in the first quarter of 2021 in the Kansas City Fed region were poised to remain strong for the first time since 2013.

Ag credit survey: farm economy rebounds sharply

The Governors' Biofuels Coalition is calling on President Joe Biden to ensure the future of the biofuels sector.&nbsp; The coalition includes governors from 22 states throughout the U.S., including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who led this week's action in a letter to President Biden. 

Walz states, "the once flourishing industry is now in jeopardy, threatened by trade wars, a litigious petroleum industry, and shrinking demand caused by the pandemic.” The letter noted that technological advances will significantly benefit the nation overall, but could have a devastating impact on the ethanol industry. 

The governor proposed two administrative actions to ease that transition, including an executive order banning the use of aromatics in gasoline, and adopting new Renewable Fuel Standard regulations. 

The letter says banning aromatics use would allow for the substitution of cleaner octane additives for aromatics, expanding the market for ethanol. Regarding the RFS, Walz cautioned that its regulations, particularly the waiver provision, have been manipulated and distorted “to keep the RFS from meeting its full potential.”

The Governors' Biofuels Coalition is calling on President Joe Biden to ensure the future of the biofuels sector.&nbsp; The coalition includes governors from 22 states throughout the U.S., including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who led this week's action in a letter to President Biden. Walz states, "the once flourishing industry is now in jeopardy, threatened by trade wars, a litigious petroleum industry, and shrinking demand caused by the pandemic.” The letter noted that technological advances will significantly benefit the nation overall, but could have a devastating impact on the ethanol industry. The governor proposed two administrative actions to ease that transition, including an executive order banning the use of aromatics in gasoline, and adopting new Renewable Fuel Standard regulations. The letter says banning aromatics use would allow for the substitution of cleaner octane additives for aromatics, expanding the market for ethanol. Regarding the RFS, Walz cautioned that its regulations, particularly the waiver provision, have been manipulated and distorted “to keep the RFS from meeting its full potential.”

Governor’s biofuels coalition asks President Biden to support biofuels sector

The Department of Agriculture this week confirmed COVID-19 in a cougar at a wild animal exhibit in Texas. A tiger from the same facility was also confirmed positive for COVID-19. 

USDA says samples from several animals at the facility were taken after showing clinical signs, including coughing and wheezing. The animals are expected to fully recover. 

USDA suspects that the large cats acquired the infection from a person working as a team member or volunteer who was positive for COVID-19. Infections have been reported in a small number of animals worldwide, mostly in animals that had close contact with a person with COVID-19. 

USDA states, “We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals, but there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus to people.” However, it is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.

The Department of Agriculture this week confirmed COVID-19 in a cougar at a wild animal exhibit in Texas. A tiger from the same facility was also confirmed positive for COVID-19. USDA says samples from several animals at the facility were taken after showing clinical signs, including coughing and wheezing. The animals are expected to fully recover. USDA suspects that the large cats acquired the infection from a person working as a team member or volunteer who was positive for COVID-19. Infections have been reported in a small number of animals worldwide, mostly in animals that had close contact with a person with COVID-19. USDA states, “We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals, but there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus to people.” However, it is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.

COVID-19 found in a cougar at a wild animal exhibitor in Texas

The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee this week advanced the nomination of Michael Regan as Environmental Protection Agency Administrator to the full Senate. 

Committee Chairman Tom Carper, a Delaware Democrat, says a bipartisan majority of Committee members voted to move forward on the confirmation by a recorded vote of 14 to 6. 

Regan’s nomination now heads to the Senate floor for a full vote. Carper says of Regan, “I’m confident he will bring his sterling record of public service to lead the EPA with integrity and compassion.” Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the top Republican on the Panel from West Virginia, was one of the four voting against the nomination. 

While complimenting Regan’s professionalism and accomplishments, Capito says, “I remain deeply concerned about unaccountable climate czars in the White House and their control over EPA and environmental policy.” Republicans on the committee also questioned Regan’s stance on the Keystone XL Pipeline, and the Waters of the U.S. rule.

The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee this week advanced the nomination of Michael Regan as Environmental Protection Agency Administrator to the full Senate. Committee Chairman Tom Carper, a Delaware Democrat, says a bipartisan majority of Committee members voted to move forward on the confirmation by a recorded vote of 14 to 6. Regan’s nomination now heads to the Senate floor for a full vote. Carper says of Regan, “I’m confident he will bring his sterling record of public service to lead the EPA with integrity and compassion.” Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the top Republican on the Panel from West Virginia, was one of the four voting against the nomination. While complimenting Regan’s professionalism and accomplishments, Capito says, “I remain deeply concerned about unaccountable climate czars in the White House and their control over EPA and environmental policy.” Republicans on the committee also questioned Regan’s stance on the Keystone XL Pipeline, and the Waters of the U.S. rule.

Senate EPW committee send EPA Administrator nomination to full senate

The COVID-19 Assistance Package includes provisions supported by Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow. Stabenow says, “We need to take bold action to get farmers, families, and rural communities the help they need to weather this crisis and come out stronger on the other end.” 

The Michigan Democrat worked with House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott and House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott to secure the provisions in the bill. 

Those provisions provide additional food assistance for those facing hunger by continuing a 15 percent boost in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and allows the Secretary of Agriculture to address supply chain issues facing the food and agriculture sector. 

The Senate Ag Chair says the bill also supports farmers of color and invests in rural hospitals, along with expanding vaccine distribution in rural communities. The legislation would help rural hospitals make up for high costs and lost revenue, and increases telehealth capabilities.

The COVID-19 Assistance Package includes provisions supported by Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow. Stabenow says, “We need to take bold action to get farmers, families, and rural communities the help they need to weather this crisis and come out stronger on the other end.” The Michigan Democrat worked with House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott and House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott to secure the provisions in the bill. Those provisions provide additional food assistance for those facing hunger by continuing a 15 percent boost in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and allows the Secretary of Agriculture to address supply chain issues facing the food and agriculture sector. The Senate Ag Chair says the bill also supports farmers of color and invests in rural hospitals, along with expanding vaccine distribution in rural communities. The legislation would help rural hospitals make up for high costs and lost revenue, and increases telehealth capabilities.

COVID-19 assistance package includes provisions from Stabenow

The Peterson Institute calls the China Phase One agreement a “flop” in a recent analysis. The analysis says, “Much of the deal was a failure.” Citing China’s pledge to buy $200 billion more of U.S. goods and services over two years, evidence from the deal’s first year shows China was never on pace to meet that commitment. 

During the trade war, U.S. agricultural exports to China were cut in half in 2018, with 2019 levels remaining nearly 30 percent lower than in 2017. 

Overall, China did ramp up farm purchases in 2020 and by September was back on pace to reattain 2017 levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the analysis says U.S. agricultural exports ended up both 18 percent short of the 2020 legal commitment and considerably lower than the Trump administration’s political aspirations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Without the U.S.-China trade war, exports to China would have ended up roughly 19 percent higher than actual 2020 levels, according to the analysis.

The Peterson Institute calls the China Phase One agreement a “flop” in a recent analysis. The analysis says, “Much of the deal was a failure.” Citing China’s pledge to buy $200 billion more of U.S. goods and services over two years, evidence from the deal’s first year shows China was never on pace to meet that commitment. During the trade war, U.S. agricultural exports to China were cut in half in 2018, with 2019 levels remaining nearly 30 percent lower than in 2017. Overall, China did ramp up farm purchases in 2020 and by September was back on pace to reattain 2017 levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the analysis says U.S. agricultural exports ended up both 18 percent short of the 2020 legal commitment and considerably lower than the Trump administration’s political aspirations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Without the U.S.-China trade war, exports to China would have ended up roughly 19 percent higher than actual 2020 levels, according to the analysis.

Peterson Institute: China Phase One Deal falls short

A group of Senate Democrats this week reintroduced the Justice for Black Farmers Act. The legislation aims to address and correct historic discrimination within the U.S. Department of Agriculture in federal farm assistance and lending. 

The bill was first introduced in November 2020. At the time, the Senators stated USDA discrimination "has caused Black farmers to lose millions of acres of farmland and robbed Black farmers and their families of hundreds of billions of dollars of inter-generational wealth.” 

The legislation will enact policies to end discrimination within USDA, protect Black farmers from losing their land, provide land grants to create a new generation of Black farmers and restore the land base that has been lost. 

The bill also seeks to implement systemic reforms to help family farmers across the United States. Senator Corey Booker, a Democrat from New Jersey who now holds a seat on the Senate Agriculture Committee, reintroduced the legislation, along with colleagues from Massachusetts, New York, Minnesota, Georgia and Vermont.

A group of Senate Democrats this week reintroduced the Justice for Black Farmers Act. The legislation aims to address and correct historic discrimination within the U.S. Department of Agriculture in federal farm assistance and lending. The bill was first introduced in November 2020. At the time, the Senators stated USDA discrimination "has caused Black farmers to lose millions of acres of farmland and robbed Black farmers and their families of hundreds of billions of dollars of inter-generational wealth.” The legislation will enact policies to end discrimination within USDA, protect Black farmers from losing their land, provide land grants to create a new generation of Black farmers and restore the land base that has been lost. The bill also seeks to implement systemic reforms to help family farmers across the United States. Senator Corey Booker, a Democrat from New Jersey who now holds a seat on the Senate Agriculture Committee, reintroduced the legislation, along with colleagues from Massachusetts, New York, Minnesota, Georgia and Vermont.

Senators reintroduce Justice for Black Farmers Act

A Senator from North Dakota wants the Biden administration to withdraw a final rule on the importation of sheep and goats. 

Republican Kevin Cramer made the request in a letter to the Department of Agriculture this week, asking the rule be withdrawn until its impact on current market conditions can be fully evaluated. 

The rule, finalized on January 14, would remove brain disorder-related import restrictions on sheep, goats, and most of their products. Cramer says the existing import restrictions function as a necessary protection against the introduction of other brain disorders, such as scrapie or mad cow disease. 

Republican Senators Steve Daines of Montana, John Cornyn of Texas, John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, John Thune and Michael Rounds of South Dakota, and John Hoeven of North Dakota joined Cramer on the letter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Senators state, "By allowing scrapie-positive animals and genetic materials into the United States, we risk reintroducing the very disease we have nearly eradicated."

A Senator from North Dakota wants the Biden administration to withdraw a final rule on the importation of sheep and goats. Republican Kevin Cramer made the request in a letter to the Department of Agriculture this week, asking the rule be withdrawn until its impact on current market conditions can be fully evaluated. The rule, finalized on January 14, would remove brain disorder-related import restrictions on sheep, goats, and most of their products. Cramer says the existing import restrictions function as a necessary protection against the introduction of other brain disorders, such as scrapie or mad cow disease. Republican Senators Steve Daines of Montana, John Cornyn of Texas, John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, John Thune and Michael Rounds of South Dakota, and John Hoeven of North Dakota joined Cramer on the letter.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Senators state, "By allowing scrapie-positive animals and genetic materials into the United States, we risk reintroducing the very disease we have nearly eradicated."

Senators urge Biden to withdraw sheep import rule

Growth Energy Tuesday again called on the Environmental Protection Agency to reject calls to delay Renewable Fuel Standard compliance. Chris Bliley, Growth Energy's Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, participated in a virtual EPA hearing on the proposal to extend the RFS compliance deadlines for the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Volume Obligations. 

During his testimony, Bliley called on EPA to reject calls to delay RFS compliance and instead take immediate steps to restore integrity to the RFS and restore lost biofuel demand. 

Bliley stated, "The intent of the RFS is to blend more biofuels into our nation's transportation fuel supply. Period. It is not meant to have oil companies use questionable legal tactics to avoid blending biofuels and then demanding that the agency further delay compliance." 

EPA's proposal would extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2019 compliance year to November 30, 2021, and extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2020 compliance year to January 31, 2022.

Growth Energy Tuesday again called on the Environmental Protection Agency to reject calls to delay Renewable Fuel Standard compliance. Chris Bliley, Growth Energy's Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, participated in a virtual EPA hearing on the proposal to extend the RFS compliance deadlines for the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Volume Obligations. During his testimony, Bliley called on EPA to reject calls to delay RFS compliance and instead take immediate steps to restore integrity to the RFS and restore lost biofuel demand. Bliley stated, "The intent of the RFS is to blend more biofuels into our nation's transportation fuel supply. Period. It is not meant to have oil companies use questionable legal tactics to avoid blending biofuels and then demanding that the agency further delay compliance." EPA's proposal would extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2019 compliance year to November 30, 2021, and extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2020 compliance year to January 31, 2022.

Growth Energy praises senate push on biofuel infrastructure

Democrats in the Senate last week introduced a bill to end the U.S. embargo on Cuba. Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden of Oregon introduced the U.S.-Cuba Trade Act of 2021 to repeal sanctions on Cuba and establish normal trade relations with the island nation. 

Wyden stated, “To continue this outdated, harmful policy of isolation would be a failure of American leadership.” The embargo was first placed on Cuba in 1962. 

President Barack Obama attempted to normalize relations with Cuba, but President Donald Trump re-enforced regulations previously eased by Obama. The U.S.-Cuba Trade Act of 2021 would repeal the major statutes that codify sanctions against Cuba, including the Helms-Burton Act and the Cuban Democracy Act, as well as other provisions that affect trade, investment and travel with Cuba. 

It would also establish normal trade relations with the country. Senate Democrats Patrick Leahy of Vermont, Richard Durban of Illinois, and Jeff Merkley of Oregon Joined Wyden on the bill.

Democrats in the Senate last week introduced a bill to end the U.S. embargo on Cuba. Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden of Oregon introduced the U.S.-Cuba Trade Act of 2021 to repeal sanctions on Cuba and establish normal trade relations with the island nation. Wyden stated, “To continue this outdated, harmful policy of isolation would be a failure of American leadership.” The embargo was first placed on Cuba in 1962. President Barack Obama attempted to normalize relations with Cuba, but President Donald Trump re-enforced regulations previously eased by Obama. The U.S.-Cuba Trade Act of 2021 would repeal the major statutes that codify sanctions against Cuba, including the Helms-Burton Act and the Cuban Democracy Act, as well as other provisions that affect trade, investment and travel with Cuba. It would also establish normal trade relations with the country. Senate Democrats Patrick Leahy of Vermont, Richard Durban of Illinois, and Jeff Merkley of Oregon Joined Wyden on the bill.

Democratic lawmakers seek end to Cuba embargo

The national average gas price increased for the fifth consecutive week, rising 3.7 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.45. The national average price of diesel was up 3.8 cents in the last week and stands at $2.68 per gallon. 

However, U.S. gasoline demand fell slightly for the week ending Saturday, the second straight week of decline. 

Patrick DeHaan of Gas Buddy says many factors are behind the increase, but “at the foundation of the rise is the fact that the coronavirus situation continues to improve, pushing global oil demand higher as production continues to lag, pushing U.S. gas prices higher.” 

Until OPEC raises oil production in the months ahead, DeHaan expects the trend to continue. Crude oil prices carried their rally into the new week, as it continues to push higher as rebounding global demand brings concerns that oil production isn’t returning fast enough. Since November, crude oil prices have skyrocketed over 60 percent.

The national average gas price increased for the fifth consecutive week, rising 3.7 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.45. The national average price of diesel was up 3.8 cents in the last week and stands at $2.68 per gallon. However, U.S. gasoline demand fell slightly for the week ending Saturday, the second straight week of decline. Patrick DeHaan of Gas Buddy says many factors are behind the increase, but “at the foundation of the rise is the fact that the coronavirus situation continues to improve, pushing global oil demand higher as production continues to lag, pushing U.S. gas prices higher.” Until OPEC raises oil production in the months ahead, DeHaan expects the trend to continue. Crude oil prices carried their rally into the new week, as it continues to push higher as rebounding global demand brings concerns that oil production isn’t returning fast enough. Since November, crude oil prices have skyrocketed over 60 percent.

Fuel prices continue rise, demand down slightly

Data from the Department of Agriculture shows U.S. ethanol exports for 2020 totaled 1.3 billion gallons, down 9.8 percent from 2019 and hovering around 2017 levels. However, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "we're optimistic to see worldwide ethanol demand continue to provide U.S. producers with market opportunities." 

Canada took over as the top export market for U.S. ethanol, with 326.4 million gallons for the year. Growth Energy says Canada continues to be a global leader in the use of biofuels, which is expected to grow with their Clean Fuel Standard as well as provincial moves to higher biofuel blends. 

Brazil dropped to the second U.S. export market, at 188.8 million gallons, a 40 percent difference from 2019, due to tariff issues between the U.S. and Brazilian governments. In India, the U.S. saw a 9.1 percent increase at 189.6 million gallons. The fourth-largest export market in 2020 was South Korea, followed by the Netherlands.

Data from the Department of Agriculture shows U.S. ethanol exports for 2020 totaled 1.3 billion gallons, down 9.8 percent from 2019 and hovering around 2017 levels. However, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "we're optimistic to see worldwide ethanol demand continue to provide U.S. producers with market opportunities." Canada took over as the top export market for U.S. ethanol, with 326.4 million gallons for the year. Growth Energy says Canada continues to be a global leader in the use of biofuels, which is expected to grow with their Clean Fuel Standard as well as provincial moves to higher biofuel blends. Brazil dropped to the second U.S. export market, at 188.8 million gallons, a 40 percent difference from 2019, due to tariff issues between the U.S. and Brazilian governments. In India, the U.S. saw a 9.1 percent increase at 189.6 million gallons. The fourth-largest export market in 2020 was South Korea, followed by the Netherlands.

U.S. ethanol exports surpass 1.3 billion gallons for 2020

Tereza Cristina Dias, Brazil’s Agriculture Minister, confirmed late last week that the country’s government expects their farmers will harvest bumper crops of soybeans and corn. Those expectations come despite significant planting and harvest delays. A drought late last year delayed planting soybeans in Brazil, and excess rainfall disrupted harvesting in January. 

Slower deliveries to Brazilian grain trading companies have affected the country’s ability to export commodities around the world. Speaking at an event marketing the beginning of harvest, Dias reaffirmed that farmers would reap up to 133 million tons of soybeans and potentially more than 103 million tons of corn this year. 

“Our goal is to produce more each year and break records,” Dias says. Reuters says Brazil’s 2020-2021 soybean harvest only reached 1.9 percent of the cultivated area through January 28, the slowest pace for this time of year in the past ten growing seasons. Brazil’s second-corn crop, which makes up the bulk of its total corn production, is planted after soybean harvest wraps up. With those delays, the second corn crop may finish outside the ideal window, and that might put an upside limit on the yield.

Tereza Cristina Dias, Brazil’s Agriculture Minister, confirmed late last week that the country’s government expects their farmers will harvest bumper crops of soybeans and corn. Those expectations come despite significant planting and harvest delays. A drought late last year delayed planting soybeans in Brazil, and excess rainfall disrupted harvesting in January. Slower deliveries to Brazilian grain trading companies have affected the country’s ability to export commodities around the world. Speaking at an event marketing the beginning of harvest, Dias reaffirmed that farmers would reap up to 133 million tons of soybeans and potentially more than 103 million tons of corn this year. “Our goal is to produce more each year and break records,” Dias says. Reuters says Brazil’s 2020-2021 soybean harvest only reached 1.9 percent of the cultivated area through January 28, the slowest pace for this time of year in the past ten growing seasons. Brazil’s second-corn crop, which makes up the bulk of its total corn production, is planted after soybean harvest wraps up. With those delays, the second corn crop may finish outside the ideal window, and that might put an upside limit on the yield.

Brazil Ag minister confirms big grain crop ahead

Corn export sales set a record last week, while soybean and wheat sales surged higher. China led all buyers, but especially in corn. The USDA says U.S. corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 7.44 million metric tons for the week ending January 29, the highest level since 1990. The agency says China purchased 5.86 million metric tons. Japan was next at close to 503,000 metric tons, and Mexico bought 403,700 tons. 

Export sales totaled 995,000 metric tons during the week ending January 29. That’s down 30 percent week-to-week and 17 percent from the previous four-week average. Soybean sales totaled 824,000 metric tons, up 77 percent from the previous week and four percent over the previous four-week average. China was the big soybean buyer at 598,900 metric tons, followed by Mexico at 121,400 tons, and the Netherlands bought 115,500 tons. 

Exports during the week ending on January 29 totaled 1.96 million metric tons, down 11 percent from the previous seven-day period and seven percent compared to the previous four-week average. Wheat sales also jumped higher, rising 69 percent from the prior week to 643,100 metric tons. Once again, China was the biggest buyer, purchasing 134,000 metric tons.

Corn export sales set a record last week, while soybean and wheat sales surged higher. China led all buyers, but especially in corn. The USDA says U.S. corn sales to overseas buyers totaled 7.44 million metric tons for the week ending January 29, the highest level since 1990. The agency says China purchased 5.86 million metric tons. Japan was next at close to 503,000 metric tons, and Mexico bought 403,700 tons. Export sales totaled 995,000 metric tons during the week ending January 29. That’s down 30 percent week-to-week and 17 percent from the previous four-week average. Soybean sales totaled 824,000 metric tons, up 77 percent from the previous week and four percent over the previous four-week average. China was the big soybean buyer at 598,900 metric tons, followed by Mexico at 121,400 tons, and the Netherlands bought 115,500 tons. Exports during the week ending on January 29 totaled 1.96 million metric tons, down 11 percent from the previous seven-day period and seven percent compared to the previous four-week average. Wheat sales also jumped higher, rising 69 percent from the prior week to 643,100 metric tons. Once again, China was the biggest buyer, purchasing 134,000 metric tons.

Corn exports set a record

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association wrapped up its virtual Winter Business Meeting by electing Kansas cattle producer Jerry Bohn as its new president. Bohn is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. His early days included custom grazing cattle with his family in Flint Hills, Kansas, before moving on to Kansas State University. Bohn also served 34 years as the manager of a commercial cattle feeding operation called Pratt Feeders. 

“As I look forward to this year as NCBA President, I have immense pride in the cattle industry and our dues-paying members that help to make this the leading cattle organization representing U.S. producers,” Bohn says. “Becoming president is my greatest honor and an opportunity to give back to the industry that made me who I am today.” 

Don Schiefelbein (SHEEF-ehl-byne) of Minnesota was named president-elect, and Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota was elected vice president. “The grassroots power of our members and state affiliates is the reason I’m proud to represent the NCBA as President and is the reason I get up every day, ready to fight for the American producer,” Bohn adds.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association wrapped up its virtual Winter Business Meeting by electing Kansas cattle producer Jerry Bohn as its new president. Bohn is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. His early days included custom grazing cattle with his family in Flint Hills, Kansas, before moving on to Kansas State University. Bohn also served 34 years as the manager of a commercial cattle feeding operation called Pratt Feeders. “As I look forward to this year as NCBA President, I have immense pride in the cattle industry and our dues-paying members that help to make this the leading cattle organization representing U.S. producers,” Bohn says. “Becoming president is my greatest honor and an opportunity to give back to the industry that made me who I am today.” Don Schiefelbein (SHEEF-ehl-byne) of Minnesota was named president-elect, and Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota was elected vice president. “The grassroots power of our members and state affiliates is the reason I’m proud to represent the NCBA as President and is the reason I get up every day, ready to fight for the American producer,” Bohn adds.

Kansas cattleman Jerry Bohn elected new NCBA president

The 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;

Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal.

"Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.

January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.

The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.

Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well.

"We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."

Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.

Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots.

"Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."

Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.

You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583233334844.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam." />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal."Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well."We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots."Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Below average runoff expected in 2021 for upper Missouri River Basin

Growth Energy announced its support for legislation reintroduced Wednesday requiring the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. Introduced by Senators John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, the bill would change EPA greenhouse gas modeling to "accurately reflect the greenhouse gas reductions achieved by biofuels." 

EPA would then be required to update its modeling every five years or report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made. The Adopt Greenhouse Gas and Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation, or GREET Act, was previously introduced in the last session of Congress. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “updating the modeling at EPA is long overdue and necessary to fully reflect biofuels’ potential to decarbonize the transportation sector.” Meanwhile, National Corn Growers Association President John Linder stated, “This bill will ensure EPA uses the most recent science and data to accurately measure the greenhouse gas emission reduction benefits of ethanol.”

Growth Energy announced its support for legislation reintroduced Wednesday requiring the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. Introduced by Senators John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, the bill would change EPA greenhouse gas modeling to "accurately reflect the greenhouse gas reductions achieved by biofuels." EPA would then be required to update its modeling every five years or report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made. The Adopt Greenhouse Gas and Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation, or GREET Act, was previously introduced in the last session of Congress. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “updating the modeling at EPA is long overdue and necessary to fully reflect biofuels’ potential to decarbonize the transportation sector.” Meanwhile, National Corn Growers Association President John Linder stated, “This bill will ensure EPA uses the most recent science and data to accurately measure the greenhouse gas emission reduction benefits of ethanol.”

Biofuels groups welcome GREET act reintroduction

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Democratic Committee memberships this week. The announcement appoints Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan as Senate Agriculture Committee Chair. Stabenow also holds membership on the Senate Budget Committee, Finance Committee, along with the Environment and Public Works Committee. 

Delaware’s Tom Carper will chair the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. Schumer also added New Jersey’s Corey Booker, Georgia Raphael Warnock, and Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico to the Ag Committee. Booker is a self-described vegan and is critical of large-scale animal agriculture and farm checkoff programs. In 2016, he introduced the Commodity Check Off Reform Bill. 

In a press release this week, Booker stated, “Our food system is deeply broken,” adding, “Family farmers are struggling, and their farms are disappearing, while big agriculture conglomerates get bigger and enjoy greater profits.” Pennsylvania’s Bob Casey is leaving the Senate Ag Committee and will chair the Senate Aging Committee. Senate Republican leaders have yet to announce their committee membership appointments.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Democratic Committee memberships this week. The announcement appoints Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan as Senate Agriculture Committee Chair. Stabenow also holds membership on the Senate Budget Committee, Finance Committee, along with the Environment and Public Works Committee. Delaware’s Tom Carper will chair the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. Schumer also added New Jersey’s Corey Booker, Georgia Raphael Warnock, and Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico to the Ag Committee. Booker is a self-described vegan and is critical of large-scale animal agriculture and farm checkoff programs. In 2016, he introduced the Commodity Check Off Reform Bill. In a press release this week, Booker stated, “Our food system is deeply broken,” adding, “Family farmers are struggling, and their farms are disappearing, while big agriculture conglomerates get bigger and enjoy greater profits.” Pennsylvania’s Bob Casey is leaving the Senate Ag Committee and will chair the Senate Aging Committee. Senate Republican leaders have yet to announce their committee membership appointments.

Schumer announces senate committee assignments

A question in the Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer finds more farmers say they will get the COVID-19 vaccine. The Ag Economy Barometer for January, released this week, finds producers' attitudes about receiving a COVID-19 vaccine have shifted since the fall, with nearly six out of ten producers, 58 percent, planning to get vaccinated as soon as possible. 

Just 24 percent of producers said the same in October of last year. Still, 28 percent of farmers say they will not get the vaccine, compared with 37 percent in October. The Ag Economy Barometer is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. 

This month’s survey was conducted from January 18-22, 2021. Last month, the Kaiser Family Foundation COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor reported three in ten people in rural areas say they will "definitely get" the vaccine, compared to four in ten people in urban areas and suburban areas.

A question in the Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer finds more farmers say they will get the COVID-19 vaccine. The Ag Economy Barometer for January, released this week, finds producers' attitudes about receiving a COVID-19 vaccine have shifted since the fall, with nearly six out of ten producers, 58 percent, planning to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Just 24 percent of producers said the same in October of last year. Still, 28 percent of farmers say they will not get the vaccine, compared with 37 percent in October. The Ag Economy Barometer is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. This month’s survey was conducted from January 18-22, 2021. Last month, the Kaiser Family Foundation COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor reported three in ten people in rural areas say they will "definitely get" the vaccine, compared to four in ten people in urban areas and suburban areas.

More farmers plan to get COVID-19 vaccine

A new analysis of independent data for 2020 show that reported new COVID-19 infection rates amongst meat and poultry workers were five times lower in December than in May, while rates in the general population went up by nine times in the same period. 

According to data from the Food and Environment Reporting Network, the meat and poultry sector was reported to have an average of 32.64 new reported cases per 100,000 workers per day in January 2021, two-thirds lower than the average of 98.39 new reported cases per 100,000 workers per day in May 2020. 

Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts commented, "Meat and poultry workers are substantially less likely to be infected with COVID-19 than the general population as a result of the comprehensive protections instituted since the spring of 2020." 

The data comes as the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis launched an investigation into coronavirus outbreaks at meatpacking plants nationwide.

A new analysis of independent data for 2020 show that reported new COVID-19 infection rates amongst meat and poultry workers were five times lower in December than in May, while rates in the general population went up by nine times in the same period. According to data from the Food and Environment Reporting Network, the meat and poultry sector was reported to have an average of 32.64 new reported cases per 100,000 workers per day in January 2021, two-thirds lower than the average of 98.39 new reported cases per 100,000 workers per day in May 2020. Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts commented, "Meat and poultry workers are substantially less likely to be infected with COVID-19 than the general population as a result of the comprehensive protections instituted since the spring of 2020." The data comes as the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis launched an investigation into coronavirus outbreaks at meatpacking plants nationwide.

Meat and poultry workers COVID-19 case rates

Biofuel groups last week filed a court brief challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s failure to properly establish 2020 biofuel blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

In their brief, the parties seek to ensure that the annual biofuel targets, or Renewable Volume Obligations, account for small refinery exemptions the agency issued for past years. EPA’s current regulations factor in only future SREs, while ignoring biofuel demand destroyed by past SREs granted retroactively, totaling more than four billion gallons in recent years. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor stated, “The Trump EPA’s 2020 biofuel targets failed to account for the billions of gallons of demand lost to the agency’s mismanagement of the Renewable Fuel Standard.” 

Growth Energy and others also challenge EPA’s abuse of its waiver authority for cellulosic biofuel targets. Under the 2020 RVOs, the agency set cellulosic targets that did not account for 50 million credits carried over from past years. As a result, cellulosic targets were set at 590 million gallons.

Biofuel groups last week filed a court brief challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s failure to properly establish 2020 biofuel blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In their brief, the parties seek to ensure that the annual biofuel targets, or Renewable Volume Obligations, account for small refinery exemptions the agency issued for past years. EPA’s current regulations factor in only future SREs, while ignoring biofuel demand destroyed by past SREs granted retroactively, totaling more than four billion gallons in recent years. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor stated, “The Trump EPA’s 2020 biofuel targets failed to account for the billions of gallons of demand lost to the agency’s mismanagement of the Renewable Fuel Standard.” Growth Energy and others also challenge EPA’s abuse of its waiver authority for cellulosic biofuel targets. Under the 2020 RVOs, the agency set cellulosic targets that did not account for 50 million credits carried over from past years. As a result, cellulosic targets were set at 590 million gallons.

Growth Energy battles in court to reverse demand destruction

Joe Biden’s Agriculture Secretary nominee pledges to address discrimination across the Department of Agriculture. In the Senate Agriculture Committee confirmation hearing, Tom Vilsack told lawmakers he will also seek to remove barriers to access for anyone who qualifies for nutrition assistance. 

In his opening statement, Vilsack also vowed to ensure USDA is doing its part to end the COVID-19 pandemic, lead the federal government in building and maintaining new markets, stop the farm debt cycle and create transparency in pricing throughout the supply chain. 

Vilsack, who was Agriculture Secretary during the Obama administration, also seeks to restore USDA employee morale “to the high level it was” during his previous tenure at USDA. 

Incoming Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, stated, “My last turn as Chair coincided with your first tenure at USDA, and I'm so happy to have the chance to work with you again.” The Committee advanced the nomination to the full Senate following the hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607702718457.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Joe Biden’s Agriculture Secretary nominee pledges to address discrimination across the Department of Agriculture. In the Senate Agriculture Committee confirmation hearing, Tom Vilsack told lawmakers he will also seek to remove barriers to access for anyone who qualifies for nutrition assistance. In his opening statement, Vilsack also vowed to ensure USDA is doing its part to end the COVID-19 pandemic, lead the federal government in building and maintaining new markets, stop the farm debt cycle and create transparency in pricing throughout the supply chain. Vilsack, who was Agriculture Secretary during the Obama administration, also seeks to restore USDA employee morale “to the high level it was” during his previous tenure at USDA. Incoming Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, stated, “My last turn as Chair coincided with your first tenure at USDA, and I'm so happy to have the chance to work with you again.” The Committee advanced the nomination to the full Senate following the hearing.

Vilsack breezes through confirmation hearing

Speculation is brewing over how the new Biden administration may use the Commodity Credit Corporation. The CCC, as it’s known, was used by the Trump-era Department of Agriculture to provide trade relief to farmers, including Market Facilitation Program payments. The CCC has a $30 billion fund, with several ideas on how to use the funding, setting up a "tug of war over its limited resources," according to Politico. 

Incoming Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has indicated that he has the authority to implement a carbon bank for farmers through the CCC. President Joe Biden's stimulus plan also identified the CCC as a means to provide economic relief for restaurants suffering during the pandemic. 

Meanwhile, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, told reporters last week, farmers can be leaders in the climate crisis. She says her focus will be on “voluntary, producer-led opportunities” to allow farmers to cut down emissions and create new income sources.

Speculation is brewing over how the new Biden administration may use the Commodity Credit Corporation. The CCC, as it’s known, was used by the Trump-era Department of Agriculture to provide trade relief to farmers, including Market Facilitation Program payments. The CCC has a $30 billion fund, with several ideas on how to use the funding, setting up a "tug of war over its limited resources," according to Politico. Incoming Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has indicated that he has the authority to implement a carbon bank for farmers through the CCC. President Joe Biden's stimulus plan also identified the CCC as a means to provide economic relief for restaurants suffering during the pandemic. Meanwhile, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, told reporters last week, farmers can be leaders in the climate crisis. She says her focus will be on “voluntary, producer-led opportunities” to allow farmers to cut down emissions and create new income sources.