The Department of Agriculture Tuesday named Sandra Eskin as deputy undersecretary for food safety. Eskin comes to USDA from The Pew Charitable Trusts, where she served as the Project Director for Food Safety. 

Before joining Pew, she was a public policy consultant to consumer and public interest organizations, providing strategic and policy advice on a range of consumer protection issues. USDA also announced other staff appointments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eyang Garrison was named chief of staff in the Office of the Deputy Secretary. 

Before joining USDA, Garrison served as the deputy chief of staff and legislative director for Representative Marcia Fudge of Ohio.&nbsp; Jeremy Adamson was named policy advisor for trade and foreign agricultural affairs in the Foreign Agricultural Service. 

Most recently, Jeremy served as the portfolio manager for Certis USA. And, Edyael Casaperalta was named senior policy advisor for the Rural Utilities Services agency. Casaperalta is an attorney who has supported indigenous and underrepresented communities in telecommunications matters.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday named Sandra Eskin as deputy undersecretary for food safety. Eskin comes to USDA from The Pew Charitable Trusts, where she served as the Project Director for Food Safety. Before joining Pew, she was a public policy consultant to consumer and public interest organizations, providing strategic and policy advice on a range of consumer protection issues. USDA also announced other staff appointments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eyang Garrison was named chief of staff in the Office of the Deputy Secretary. Before joining USDA, Garrison served as the deputy chief of staff and legislative director for Representative Marcia Fudge of Ohio.&nbsp; Jeremy Adamson was named policy advisor for trade and foreign agricultural affairs in the Foreign Agricultural Service. Most recently, Jeremy served as the portfolio manager for Certis USA. And, Edyael Casaperalta was named senior policy advisor for the Rural Utilities Services agency. Casaperalta is an attorney who has supported indigenous and underrepresented communities in telecommunications matters.

USDA announces Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced investments to modernize and improve rural electric grids through 11 projects under the Electric Loan Program. 

The funding will benefit 460,000 rural residents and businesses in Arizona, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah and Virginia. 

Several of the loans will help expand smart grid technologies, which can be a catalyst for broadband and other telecommunications services in unserved and underserved rural areas. 

The funding comes just weeks after grid disruptions during a historic cold snap across the nation. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "These USDA investments will bring affordable electric power to rural residents," adding, "Now is the time for our nation to make significant investments in infrastructure." 

USDA's Electric Loan Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, and improvements to produce clean energy from coal-fired plants. Local utilities also use the loans to invest in infrastructure to deliver affordable power to millions of residential, commercial and agricultural consumers.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced investments to modernize and improve rural electric grids through 11 projects under the Electric Loan Program. The funding will benefit 460,000 rural residents and businesses in Arizona, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah and Virginia. Several of the loans will help expand smart grid technologies, which can be a catalyst for broadband and other telecommunications services in unserved and underserved rural areas. The funding comes just weeks after grid disruptions during a historic cold snap across the nation. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "These USDA investments will bring affordable electric power to rural residents," adding, "Now is the time for our nation to make significant investments in infrastructure." USDA's Electric Loan Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, and improvements to produce clean energy from coal-fired plants. Local utilities also use the loans to invest in infrastructure to deliver affordable power to millions of residential, commercial and agricultural consumers.

USDA investing $598 million to improve and modernize rural electric infrastructure

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is railing against a proclamation by the governor of Colorado that encourages people to avoid meat for one day a week, calling it a “direct attack on our way of life” and signing a pro-meat declaration of his own.

Ricketts surrounded himself with top officials from Nebraska’s meat, agricultural and restaurant industries on Monday as he declared Saturday “Meat on the Menu Day” in Nebraska.

The day was chosen to coincide with Colorado’s “MeatOut Day,” a nonbinding proclamation signed by Gov. Jared Polis late last month and backed by an animal rights group. 

“MeatOut Day” was started in 1985 by the Farm Animal Rights Movement and seeks to encourage non-vegetarians to consider a plant-based diet.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is railing against a proclamation by the governor of Colorado that encourages people to avoid meat for one day a week, calling it a “direct attack on our way of life” and signing a pro-meat declaration of his own.Ricketts surrounded himself with top officials from Nebraska’s meat, agricultural and restaurant industries on Monday as he declared Saturday “Meat on the Menu Day” in Nebraska.The day was chosen to coincide with Colorado’s “MeatOut Day,” a nonbinding proclamation signed by Gov. Jared Polis late last month and backed by an animal rights group. “MeatOut Day” was started in 1985 by the Farm Animal Rights Movement and seeks to encourage non-vegetarians to consider a plant-based diet.

Meat on the Menu Day

Repairs of Missouri River levees damaged by the 2019 flood
continue, though floating ice on the Missouri in February halted work for a
while.

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says the Army Corps
of Engineers has moved faster than he thought it could.

“I think they did a phenomenal job of getting many of the
repairs done,” Graves tells St. Joseph Post.

Still, Graves remains critical of how the Corps plans to
manage the Missouri River.

“They’re talking about restoration of the southern part of the
Missouri River by December of 2022, but they’re not going to get the northern portion
back to full capacity until 2025,” Graves says. “We have to do better.”

Graves says navigation on the Missouri depends on the weather,
but also on the priorities the Corps has for the Missouri. Graves says the
Corps needs to return to considering flood control and navigation the top
priorities guiding how it manages the Missouri River.

Graves says the extent of the damage done by the 2019 flood
will force changes to the levee system along the Missouri.

“In some cases, we had holes that we just simply can’t fill,”
according to Graves. “They are scour holes and many of them 70 to 100 feet deep
and you just can’t fill holes like that. So, we’re looking to realign the river
and that’s in process and moving forward.”

The Army Corps of Engineers adds that the deep freeze in
February created ice on the river, forcing workers to quit until the recent
thaw.

Graves says the Corps could ease the risk of flooding through
its control of the six Missouri River upstream reservoirs. Releases from those reservoirs
at the Gavins Point Dam along the Nebraska-South Dakota border determine the
level of the Missouri River downstream. Graves has been pushing the Corps to
make flood control and navigation the top priorities guiding management of the
Missouri.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRepairs of Missouri River levees damaged by the 2019 flood
continue, though floating ice on the Missouri in February halted work for a
while.Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves says the Army Corps
of Engineers has moved faster than he thought it could.“I think they did a phenomenal job of getting many of the
repairs done,” Graves tells St. Joseph Post.Still, Graves remains critical of how the Corps plans to
manage the Missouri River.“They’re talking about restoration of the southern part of the
Missouri River by December of 2022, but they’re not going to get the northern portion
back to full capacity until 2025,” Graves says. “We have to do better.”Graves says navigation on the Missouri depends on the weather,
but also on the priorities the Corps has for the Missouri. Graves says the
Corps needs to return to considering flood control and navigation the top
priorities guiding how it manages the Missouri River.Graves says the extent of the damage done by the 2019 flood
will force changes to the levee system along the Missouri.“In some cases, we had holes that we just simply can’t fill,”
according to Graves. “They are scour holes and many of them 70 to 100 feet deep
and you just can’t fill holes like that. So, we’re looking to realign the river
and that’s in process and moving forward.”The Army Corps of Engineers adds that the deep freeze in
February created ice on the river, forcing workers to quit until the recent
thaw.Graves says the Corps could ease the risk of flooding through
its control of the six Missouri River upstream reservoirs. Releases from those reservoirs
at the Gavins Point Dam along the Nebraska-South Dakota border determine the
level of the Missouri River downstream. Graves has been pushing the Corps to
make flood control and navigation the top priorities guiding management of the
Missouri.

Levee system repairs in wake of 2019 Missouri River flood continue

Representative Ron Kind last week introduced the bipartisan Rural and Underserved Small Hospital Protection Act. Known as the RUSH Act, the legislation will update the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act to help ensure rural health clinics across have the resources they need to provide care for patients in rural and underserved communities. 

The Wisconsin Democrat says, “We must continue to support our outstanding rural health care providers and protect access to care for rural communities.” 

Kind says the RUSH Protection Act provides clarity after changes were made to the Rural Health Clinic reimbursement rules. Rural Health Clinics play a vital role in providing access to care for rural communities and have been on the frontlines of combatting COVID-19 in rural regions. 

However, due to a drafting error in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, many are affiliated with critical access hospitals that opened in 2020 and face significant Medicare payment cuts. Kind says the legislation will correct this mistake.

Representative Ron Kind last week introduced the bipartisan Rural and Underserved Small Hospital Protection Act. Known as the RUSH Act, the legislation will update the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act to help ensure rural health clinics across have the resources they need to provide care for patients in rural and underserved communities. The Wisconsin Democrat says, “We must continue to support our outstanding rural health care providers and protect access to care for rural communities.” Kind says the RUSH Protection Act provides clarity after changes were made to the Rural Health Clinic reimbursement rules. Rural Health Clinics play a vital role in providing access to care for rural communities and have been on the frontlines of combatting COVID-19 in rural regions. However, due to a drafting error in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, many are affiliated with critical access hospitals that opened in 2020 and face significant Medicare payment cuts. Kind says the legislation will correct this mistake.

Kind introduces bipartisan legislative fix to protect rural access to care  

Democrats have reintroduced the Safe Line Speeds During COVID-19 Act. The lawmakers say the bill will protect worker, consumer, and animal safety by suspending all current and future USDA waivers and regulations that allow companies to increase production line speeds at meatpacking plants during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Senate Democrat Corey Booker, along with Representatives Rosa DeLauro and Bennie Thompson, announced the reintroduction last week.In January, the Department of Agriculture withdrew the Trump administration's proposed rule, which would have allowed poultry processing plants to increase the speed of their production lines by 25 percent. 

For the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration, this bill would suspend all active waivers issued by USDA and suspend USDA's authority to issue new waivers in this area.

The bill would also suspend implementation of, and conversion to, the New Swine Slaughter Inspection System established under USDA's final rule published in October 2019, titled Modernization of Swine Slaughter Inspection.

Democrats have reintroduced the Safe Line Speeds During COVID-19 Act. The lawmakers say the bill will protect worker, consumer, and animal safety by suspending all current and future USDA waivers and regulations that allow companies to increase production line speeds at meatpacking plants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Senate Democrat Corey Booker, along with Representatives Rosa DeLauro and Bennie Thompson, announced the reintroduction last week.In January, the Department of Agriculture withdrew the Trump administration's proposed rule, which would have allowed poultry processing plants to increase the speed of their production lines by 25 percent. For the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration, this bill would suspend all active waivers issued by USDA and suspend USDA's authority to issue new waivers in this area.The bill would also suspend implementation of, and conversion to, the New Swine Slaughter Inspection System established under USDA's final rule published in October 2019, titled Modernization of Swine Slaughter Inspection.

Democrats reintroduce safe line speeds during COVID-19 Act

Farm supply cooperatives and distributors are positioned to benefit from an active and profitable spring agronomy season, according to a new report from CoBank. 

The report says the profitable spring is driven by high commodity prices, strong input demand and an expected increase in planted acres of soybean, corn and wheat. 

Ag retailers begin the 2021 planting season with favorable industry fundamentals and an opportunity to expand profit margins, according to the report.&nbsp;&nbsp;A CoBank researcher says, "Improving profits for cooperative agronomy departments should help cushion the negative carry caused by an inversion in futures prices." 

Given the higher acreage forecasts, farmers are expected to purchase more fertilization products during the spring planting season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rising fertilizer prices are also a positive indicator for new sales and retailer margins. 

Inventory levels of seed, fertilizer and crop protection products are largely expected to be sufficient for the projected increase in spring-planted acres. However, pandemic logistics challenges may impact deliveries.

Farm supply cooperatives and distributors are positioned to benefit from an active and profitable spring agronomy season, according to a new report from CoBank. The report says the profitable spring is driven by high commodity prices, strong input demand and an expected increase in planted acres of soybean, corn and wheat. Ag retailers begin the 2021 planting season with favorable industry fundamentals and an opportunity to expand profit margins, according to the report.&nbsp;&nbsp;A CoBank researcher says, "Improving profits for cooperative agronomy departments should help cushion the negative carry caused by an inversion in futures prices." Given the higher acreage forecasts, farmers are expected to purchase more fertilization products during the spring planting season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rising fertilizer prices are also a positive indicator for new sales and retailer margins. Inventory levels of seed, fertilizer and crop protection products are largely expected to be sufficient for the projected increase in spring-planted acres. However, pandemic logistics challenges may impact deliveries.

CoBank releases spring agronomy outlook

Steady rainfall over the last few days has swelled rivers and streams in northwest Missouri, including the 102 River.

A Flood Warning remains in effect for the 102 River at Rosendale, affecting Andrew and Buchanan counties until Tuesday evening.

The river will crest just above the flood stage of 18 feet Monday before going back down Monday night into Tuesday.

National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Bowman from the Pleasant Hill office says the recent rains from over the weekend and any more rain that falls this week will largely impact the smaller streams and tributaries.

"It's more like multiple rounds of moderate rain," Bowman said. "The flood threat will be more into the area creeks and streams and rivers."

Monday also brings the first chance of severe weather to the area. There is a marginal risk for severe storms along and south of Interstate 70 in the Kansas City area.

Bowman says the best time frame for severe storms Monday would be between 3-9 p.m.

"The most likely hazard will be hail up to the size of quarters," he said. "Although, with the setup that we have, we can't rule out a brief tornado. We're moving into the beginning of severe weather season. As we move deeper into March, April and May, the weather can evolve pretty quickly. So, just keep an eye on the sky and be weather aware."

Damaging winds are also possible Monday evening.

As of Monday, St. Joseph reported an 1.55" of rain over the last 24 hours, with Savannah reporting an 1.46" and Doniphan, KS getting 1.39."

While Kansas and Missouri have gotten rain, far western Nebraska, Colorado and portions of Iowa saw extremely high snowfall totals over the weekend.

Denver reported two feet of snow, while Cheyenne, WY reported three feet. Portions of the Nebraska panhandle saw about 1.5 feet.

Bowman says it was all part of the same storm system.

"Out in western Nebraska, some crazy snow amounts if you think about it," Bowman said. "Not usually something we see around here."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSteady rainfall over the last few days has swelled rivers and streams in northwest Missouri, including the 102 River.A Flood Warning remains in effect for the 102 River at Rosendale, affecting Andrew and Buchanan counties until Tuesday evening.The river will crest just above the flood stage of 18 feet Monday before going back down Monday night into Tuesday.National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Bowman from the Pleasant Hill office says the recent rains from over the weekend and any more rain that falls this week will largely impact the smaller streams and tributaries."It's more like multiple rounds of moderate rain," Bowman said. "The flood threat will be more into the area creeks and streams and rivers."Monday also brings the first chance of severe weather to the area. There is a marginal risk for severe storms along and south of Interstate 70 in the Kansas City area.Bowman says the best time frame for severe storms Monday would be between 3-9 p.m."The most likely hazard will be hail up to the size of quarters," he said. "Although, with the setup that we have, we can't rule out a brief tornado. We're moving into the beginning of severe weather season. As we move deeper into March, April and May, the weather can evolve pretty quickly. So, just keep an eye on the sky and be weather aware."Damaging winds are also possible Monday evening.As of Monday, St. Joseph reported an 1.55" of rain over the last 24 hours, with Savannah reporting an 1.46" and Doniphan, KS getting 1.39."While Kansas and Missouri have gotten rain, far western Nebraska, Colorado and portions of Iowa saw extremely high snowfall totals over the weekend.Denver reported two feet of snow, while Cheyenne, WY reported three feet. Portions of the Nebraska panhandle saw about 1.5 feet.Bowman says it was all part of the same storm system."Out in western Nebraska, some crazy snow amounts if you think about it," Bowman said. "Not usually something we see around here."

Flood warning continues for 102 River in Andrew, Buchanan counties

The USDA says it’s accepting Conservation Stewardship Program renewal applications through March 31 for over 11,000 contracts set to end this year. More than nine million acres are currently enrolled in the CSP, USDA’s largest working lands conservation program. 

“In the fiscal year 2020, NRCS helped enhance 9.3 million acres of land enrolled in CSP,” says Terry Crosby, Acting Chief for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. “CSP continues to prove its worth by helping farmers and ranchers advance their business operations through conservation enhancements on their land that sustain the natural resources that improve productivity and their bottom lines.” 

Participants with existing CSP contracts that close on December 31 of this year can benefit from recent program changes by renewing their contracts for an additional five years if they agree to adopt additional conservation practices on their land. Applications to renew expiring contracts are due by March 31.

The USDA says it’s accepting Conservation Stewardship Program renewal applications through March 31 for over 11,000 contracts set to end this year. More than nine million acres are currently enrolled in the CSP, USDA’s largest working lands conservation program. “In the fiscal year 2020, NRCS helped enhance 9.3 million acres of land enrolled in CSP,” says Terry Crosby, Acting Chief for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. “CSP continues to prove its worth by helping farmers and ranchers advance their business operations through conservation enhancements on their land that sustain the natural resources that improve productivity and their bottom lines.” Participants with existing CSP contracts that close on December 31 of this year can benefit from recent program changes by renewing their contracts for an additional five years if they agree to adopt additional conservation practices on their land. Applications to renew expiring contracts are due by March 31.

USDA offers renewals for CSP contracts set to close

The USDA’s Food and Ag Policy Research Institute says the Market Outlook Report is uncertain, but it’s more optimistic than it was a few months ago. The most recent baseline projections for agricultural and biofuel markets were prepared using market information available as of January 2021. 

The agency says commodity markets will continue to be volatile. Some of the key findings include major crop prices will retreat from recent peaks but remain above the prices from 2015-2019. Projected corn prices in 2021 will average $4.06 a bushel, and soybeans will average $10.61. Increasing Chinese imports are behind the recent strength in grain and oilseed markets. If China’s purchasing pace continues, exports and market prices could be higher than projected. 

However, if purchases falter, there is a downside risk as well. The report also says higher prices and assumed normal spring planting conditions would allow the 2021 total area planted to major crops to rebound to 2018 levels. The average prices for livestock should increase this year as the sector returns to more normal operating conditions after the plant closures and other disruptions during last year. 

Lastly, after COVID reduced driving and fuel use in 2020, projected ethanol production and use will increase this year but won’t immediately bounce back to pre-COVID levels.

The USDA’s Food and Ag Policy Research Institute says the Market Outlook Report is uncertain, but it’s more optimistic than it was a few months ago. The most recent baseline projections for agricultural and biofuel markets were prepared using market information available as of January 2021. The agency says commodity markets will continue to be volatile. Some of the key findings include major crop prices will retreat from recent peaks but remain above the prices from 2015-2019. Projected corn prices in 2021 will average $4.06 a bushel, and soybeans will average $10.61. Increasing Chinese imports are behind the recent strength in grain and oilseed markets. If China’s purchasing pace continues, exports and market prices could be higher than projected. However, if purchases falter, there is a downside risk as well. The report also says higher prices and assumed normal spring planting conditions would allow the 2021 total area planted to major crops to rebound to 2018 levels. The average prices for livestock should increase this year as the sector returns to more normal operating conditions after the plant closures and other disruptions during last year. Lastly, after COVID reduced driving and fuel use in 2020, projected ethanol production and use will increase this year but won’t immediately bounce back to pre-COVID levels.

Ag market outlook is more optimistic

The Environmental Protection Agency approved removing the low Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) gasoline requirements in Kansas City. That allows the KC metro area to sell E15 year-round. Both the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources worked with the EPA to remove those requirements. 

“The continuing work by state agencies to reduce ozone and improve the air quality for the Kansas City region is what made this move possible,” says Acting EPA Region Seven Administrator Ed Chu. Growth Energy says the announcement is a big step for Kansas City and a continuation of their hard work to improve their air quality and address environmental issues. 

“Allowing the year-round sale of E15 will help strengthen these clean energy efforts and give Kansas City area residents more access to cleaner and more affordable fuel options,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

A recent report says switching from E10 to E 15 across the country would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 20 million tons per year. “Ethanol’s benefits are tangible and will help Kansas City protect human health and help decarbonize the country’s transportation system,” she adds. &nbsp;

The Environmental Protection Agency approved removing the low Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) gasoline requirements in Kansas City. That allows the KC metro area to sell E15 year-round. Both the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources worked with the EPA to remove those requirements. “The continuing work by state agencies to reduce ozone and improve the air quality for the Kansas City region is what made this move possible,” says Acting EPA Region Seven Administrator Ed Chu. Growth Energy says the announcement is a big step for Kansas City and a continuation of their hard work to improve their air quality and address environmental issues. “Allowing the year-round sale of E15 will help strengthen these clean energy efforts and give Kansas City area residents more access to cleaner and more affordable fuel options,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. A recent report says switching from E10 to E 15 across the country would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 20 million tons per year. “Ethanol’s benefits are tangible and will help Kansas City protect human health and help decarbonize the country’s transportation system,” she adds. &nbsp;

Kansas City goes year-round on E15

World Pork Expo is back on the schedule this year, following a two-year hiatus. The 2021 World Pork Expo will occur at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, June 9-11.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, "We look forward to connecting with our fellow producers, business partners and others who contribute to our nation's essential pork production system." 

World Pork Expo in 2019 was canceled "out of an abundance of caution" as African swine fever spread at the time in foreign nations. The coronavirus pandemic forced cancelation of the event in 2020. 

NPPC will continue to monitor developments in COVID-19 guidelines for World Pork Expo to ensure the health and safety of all participants. Sorenson says, “A safe event is our number one priority, adding, “We will implement appropriate precautionary measures to ensure a great experience.” Registration information will soon be available online for those who plan to attend the 2021 World Pork Expo.

World Pork Expo is back on the schedule this year, following a two-year hiatus. The 2021 World Pork Expo will occur at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, June 9-11.&nbsp;&nbsp;NPPC President Jen Sorenson says, "We look forward to connecting with our fellow producers, business partners and others who contribute to our nation's essential pork production system." World Pork Expo in 2019 was canceled "out of an abundance of caution" as African swine fever spread at the time in foreign nations. The coronavirus pandemic forced cancelation of the event in 2020. NPPC will continue to monitor developments in COVID-19 guidelines for World Pork Expo to ensure the health and safety of all participants. Sorenson says, “A safe event is our number one priority, adding, “We will implement appropriate precautionary measures to ensure a great experience.” Registration information will soon be available online for those who plan to attend the 2021 World Pork Expo.

World Pork Expo slated to return after two year delay

The Environmental Protection Agency is mulling over the idea to combine 2021 and 2022 biofuel blending obligations, according to a report by Reuters. The EPA has in the past combined biofuel targets after missing deadlines, most recently in 2015, when it announced 2014, 2015 and 2016 targets at the same time. 

Biofuel targets must be published annually under the Renewable Fuel Standard, outlining how many gallons of biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel refineries must blend into fuels. 

Trump administration EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler opted to delay the announcement last year, awaiting action in a Supreme Court case. The RFS has been long plagued by a battle between the oil industry and the biofuels industry. 

Ethanol production reached five-year lows last month, following demand destruction from EPA small refinery exemptions and the coronavirus pandemic. However, the industry sees the Biden Administration's priority on climate as an opportunity to include biofuels in climate change policies.

The Environmental Protection Agency is mulling over the idea to combine 2021 and 2022 biofuel blending obligations, according to a report by Reuters. The EPA has in the past combined biofuel targets after missing deadlines, most recently in 2015, when it announced 2014, 2015 and 2016 targets at the same time. Biofuel targets must be published annually under the Renewable Fuel Standard, outlining how many gallons of biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel refineries must blend into fuels. Trump administration EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler opted to delay the announcement last year, awaiting action in a Supreme Court case. The RFS has been long plagued by a battle between the oil industry and the biofuels industry. Ethanol production reached five-year lows last month, following demand destruction from EPA small refinery exemptions and the coronavirus pandemic. However, the industry sees the Biden Administration's priority on climate as an opportunity to include biofuels in climate change policies.

EPA considers combining 2021-22 biofuel blending targets

Farm groups welcome the confirmation of Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, hoping for more transparency than in previous administrations. Specifically, biofuels groups are seeking more support for the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

The Senate confirmed Regan to the post Wednesday. During his confirmation hearing, Regan emphasized that the "RFS is definitely a priority for this administration."&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor congratulated Regan, while saying, “Administrator Regan has been on the record supporting biofuels as critical to help meet an ambitious climate agenda.” 

Crop Life American President and CEO says Regan’s commitment to reaching out and working with agriculture, “will be critical in developing solutions to address climate and to enhance the credibility and transparency” at the EPA. 

House Agriculture Chair David Scott joined the crowd congratulating Regan. Scott says he’ll work with the new EPA administrator to “ensure EPA's pesticide registration programs remain trusted and science-based,” along with the role of the RFS to mitigate climate change.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615565110270.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Environmental Protection Agency" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Environmental Protection Agency</figcaption>
 </figure>Farm groups welcome the confirmation of Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, hoping for more transparency than in previous administrations. Specifically, biofuels groups are seeking more support for the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Senate confirmed Regan to the post Wednesday. During his confirmation hearing, Regan emphasized that the "RFS is definitely a priority for this administration."&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor congratulated Regan, while saying, “Administrator Regan has been on the record supporting biofuels as critical to help meet an ambitious climate agenda.” Crop Life American President and CEO says Regan’s commitment to reaching out and working with agriculture, “will be critical in developing solutions to address climate and to enhance the credibility and transparency” at the EPA. House Agriculture Chair David Scott joined the crowd congratulating Regan. Scott says he’ll work with the new EPA administrator to “ensure EPA's pesticide registration programs remain trusted and science-based,” along with the role of the RFS to mitigate climate change.

Farm groups welcome senate confirmation of EPA Administrator

A group of Senators wants the Department of Agriculture to assist biofuel producers hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic. The group includes Republican Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds of South Dakota and others, led by Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley and Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar. 

Additional funding was added to the Commodity Credit Corporation by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stabilization Act. The lawmakers request Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack "use this explicit authority to aid the nation's biofuels industry." 

The Trump administration claimed using the funds would go against congressional intent. The lawmakers tell the Joe Biden administration that the funds are intended for the biofuels industry. 

The Senators write to Vilsack, “We have been encouraged by your recent statements at your confirmation hearing that you will fully utilize USDA resources to get biofuel producers back on track and will aid the Biden Administration in restoring the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard.”

A group of Senators wants the Department of Agriculture to assist biofuel producers hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic. The group includes Republican Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds of South Dakota and others, led by Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley and Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar. Additional funding was added to the Commodity Credit Corporation by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stabilization Act. The lawmakers request Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack "use this explicit authority to aid the nation's biofuels industry." The Trump administration claimed using the funds would go against congressional intent. The lawmakers tell the Joe Biden administration that the funds are intended for the biofuels industry. The Senators write to Vilsack, “We have been encouraged by your recent statements at your confirmation hearing that you will fully utilize USDA resources to get biofuel producers back on track and will aid the Biden Administration in restoring the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard.”

Lawmakers call on USDA to support biofuels industry

Legislation introduced in both the House and Senate would eliminate the estate tax. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act temporarily doubles the estate tax exemption to $11 million per person indexed for inflation through 2025. 

However, without congressional action, the estate tax exemption will revert to $5.5 million per person in 2026, putting even more farms and ranches at risk. And some lawmakers are hoping to end the extension to pay for spending priorities. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “Eliminating the estate tax removes another barrier to entry” for future family farmers. 

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Jerry Bohn says, “The estate tax disproportionately harms cattle producers because with few options to pay off tax liabilities," while announcing the organization's support for the bills. 

The effort, however, is largely symbolic. Previous efforts failed to gain traction during the Trump administration, when Republicans controlled both the House and Senate.

Legislation introduced in both the House and Senate would eliminate the estate tax. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act temporarily doubles the estate tax exemption to $11 million per person indexed for inflation through 2025. However, without congressional action, the estate tax exemption will revert to $5.5 million per person in 2026, putting even more farms and ranches at risk. And some lawmakers are hoping to end the extension to pay for spending priorities. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “Eliminating the estate tax removes another barrier to entry” for future family farmers. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Jerry Bohn says, “The estate tax disproportionately harms cattle producers because with few options to pay off tax liabilities," while announcing the organization's support for the bills. The effort, however, is largely symbolic. Previous efforts failed to gain traction during the Trump administration, when Republicans controlled both the House and Senate.

Farm groups welcome death tax repeal legislation

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack touted provisions in the American Rescue Plan Act passed by Congress this week. The House of Representatives passed the bill Wednesday afternoon, following previous Senate approval, which made a few changes to the legislation previously passed by the House. 

Vilsack says, “America’s farmers, ranchers and producers will reap the benefits of the American Rescue Plan as more resources flow through the economy.” 

In rural America, Vilsack says the plan provides significant investments to help struggling homeowners pay their mortgages, property taxes and property insurance. It expands rental assistance and funds broadband to schools and hospitals, and other community facilities. 

He adds, the bill “provides historic debt relief to Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and other farmers of color who for generations have struggled to fully succeed due to systemic discrimination and a cycle of debt.” 

National Farmers Union says the bill “provides a lifeline” for struggling Americans and takes “several steps towards more meaningful, enduring improvements” in the food system.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack touted provisions in the American Rescue Plan Act passed by Congress this week. The House of Representatives passed the bill Wednesday afternoon, following previous Senate approval, which made a few changes to the legislation previously passed by the House. Vilsack says, “America’s farmers, ranchers and producers will reap the benefits of the American Rescue Plan as more resources flow through the economy.” In rural America, Vilsack says the plan provides significant investments to help struggling homeowners pay their mortgages, property taxes and property insurance. It expands rental assistance and funds broadband to schools and hospitals, and other community facilities. He adds, the bill “provides historic debt relief to Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and other farmers of color who for generations have struggled to fully succeed due to systemic discrimination and a cycle of debt.” National Farmers Union says the bill “provides a lifeline” for struggling Americans and takes “several steps towards more meaningful, enduring improvements” in the food system.

American Rescue Plan Act passes Congress

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the nationwide extension of waivers that allow all children to continue to receive nutritious meals this summer when schools are out of session. These flexibilities are now available through Sept. 30, 2021. 

USDA is extending the waivers to provide local program operators with clarity and certainty for the summer months ahead, when many children cannot access the school meals they depend on during the academic year. The waivers were previously extended only through June 30, 2021. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We will do everything we can to make sure children get access to healthy.” The waivers extended Tuesday allow for safe meal distribution sites that serve all children for free, regardless of income. 

The waivers also allow meals served through the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option – collectively known as “summer meal programs” – to be made available in all areas at no cost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615396049231.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of USDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of USDA</figcaption>
 </figure>The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the nationwide extension of waivers that allow all children to continue to receive nutritious meals this summer when schools are out of session. These flexibilities are now available through Sept. 30, 2021. USDA is extending the waivers to provide local program operators with clarity and certainty for the summer months ahead, when many children cannot access the school meals they depend on during the academic year. The waivers were previously extended only through June 30, 2021. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We will do everything we can to make sure children get access to healthy.” The waivers extended Tuesday allow for safe meal distribution sites that serve all children for free, regardless of income. The waivers also allow meals served through the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option – collectively known as “summer meal programs” – to be made available in all areas at no cost.

USDA extends free meals to children through summer 2021 due to pandemic

U.S. beef and pork exports opened 2021 below the large volumes posted a year ago, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Beef exports totaled 105,000 metric tons in January, down two percent from a year ago, while value slipped three percent to $653 million. 

The decline was mainly due to lower beef variety meat shipments, as muscle cut exports were steady and accounted for a larger share of production than a year ago. 

January beef exports were strong to South Korea and continued to gain momentum in China. Following a down year in 2020, exports also rebounded to the Middle East. 

January pork exports totaled 248,600 metric tons, down nine percent from a year ago but slightly above USMEF's projections. Export value was down 13 percent to $642.8 million. Pork muscle cut exports were down 11 percent in volume and 15 percent in value, while pork variety meat shipments trended modestly higher than a year ago.

U.S. beef and pork exports opened 2021 below the large volumes posted a year ago, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Beef exports totaled 105,000 metric tons in January, down two percent from a year ago, while value slipped three percent to $653 million. The decline was mainly due to lower beef variety meat shipments, as muscle cut exports were steady and accounted for a larger share of production than a year ago. January beef exports were strong to South Korea and continued to gain momentum in China. Following a down year in 2020, exports also rebounded to the Middle East. January pork exports totaled 248,600 metric tons, down nine percent from a year ago but slightly above USMEF's projections. Export value was down 13 percent to $642.8 million. Pork muscle cut exports were down 11 percent in volume and 15 percent in value, while pork variety meat shipments trended modestly higher than a year ago.

January red meat exports below year-ago levels amid transportation, labor challenges

The Department of Agriculture's latest World Agriculture Supply and Demand report offered little change from February estimates. Released Tuesday, this month's 2020/21 U.S. corn supply and use outlook is unchanged from last month. 

The projected season-average farm price is unchanged at $4.30 per bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use projections for 2020/21 are mostly unchanged this month. With soybean crush and exports projected at 2.20 billion bushels and 2.25 billion bushels, respectively, ending stocks remain at 120 million bushels, down 405 million from last year's record. 

The U.S. season-average soybean price is projected at $11.15 per bushel, unchanged from last month. Although current cash prices are significantly higher, prices received through January have averaged just over $10.00 per bushel, reflecting forward pricing at lower prices. 

The supply and demand outlook for 2020/21 U.S. wheat is mostly unchanged this month, but there are offsetting by-class changes to exports and imports. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $5.00 per bushel.

The Department of Agriculture's latest World Agriculture Supply and Demand report offered little change from February estimates. Released Tuesday, this month's 2020/21 U.S. corn supply and use outlook is unchanged from last month. The projected season-average farm price is unchanged at $4.30 per bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use projections for 2020/21 are mostly unchanged this month. With soybean crush and exports projected at 2.20 billion bushels and 2.25 billion bushels, respectively, ending stocks remain at 120 million bushels, down 405 million from last year's record. The U.S. season-average soybean price is projected at $11.15 per bushel, unchanged from last month. Although current cash prices are significantly higher, prices received through January have averaged just over $10.00 per bushel, reflecting forward pricing at lower prices. The supply and demand outlook for 2020/21 U.S. wheat is mostly unchanged this month, but there are offsetting by-class changes to exports and imports. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $5.00 per bushel.

Little change in latest WASDE Report

The Department of Agriculture’s Office of the Inspector General is initiating an audit of USDA actions that may have contributed to the spread of the COVID-19 in meat processing facilities. 

The USDA OIG initiated the audit in response to Senator Michael Bennet's request, a Colorado Democrat, who asked for an investigation last August.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bennet says high infection rates early in the pandemic at meat processing plants raise "serious questions about any federal actions that may have contributed to the spread of the virus." 

The USDA OIG investigation will address Bennet's specific concerns in his August letter, including inquiries into USDA actions following the executive order that invoked the Defense Production Act. 

USDA will also review department actions taken to communicate the federal government's authority, standards, and expectations with State Departments of Health and USDA actions to ensure inspectors' health and safety and protocols in response to COVID-19 positive tests at meat processing facilities.

The Department of Agriculture’s Office of the Inspector General is initiating an audit of USDA actions that may have contributed to the spread of the COVID-19 in meat processing facilities. The USDA OIG initiated the audit in response to Senator Michael Bennet's request, a Colorado Democrat, who asked for an investigation last August.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bennet says high infection rates early in the pandemic at meat processing plants raise "serious questions about any federal actions that may have contributed to the spread of the virus." The USDA OIG investigation will address Bennet's specific concerns in his August letter, including inquiries into USDA actions following the executive order that invoked the Defense Production Act. USDA will also review department actions taken to communicate the federal government's authority, standards, and expectations with State Departments of Health and USDA actions to ensure inspectors' health and safety and protocols in response to COVID-19 positive tests at meat processing facilities.

USDA to investigate government’s role in spread of COVID-19 in meat processing facilities

U.S. biofuels and grains organizations welcome Canada’s proposed Clean Fuel Regulations. Growth Energy, the U.S. Grains Council and the Renewable Fuels Association submitted joint comments to Environment and Climate Change Canada last week on the proposal. 

The groups say, “The proposed regulation takes a market-based approach to driving carbon reductions in the Canadian fuels market, providing an attractive model for other countries to follow.” The groups add Canada should be applauded for showing global leadership on the implementation of a clean fuel standard. 

In their comments, the organizations noted the importance of allowing renewable fuel producers to account for carbon capture and sequestration in their carbon intensity scores, regardless of whether the fuel is produced in Canada or the United States. 

This regulation, the groups say, coupled with the recent announcement in the United Kingdom that it is moving from E5 to E10 by September, shows that more countries are committed to expanding the role of biofuels in meeting their Paris Agreement commitments and long-term environmental goals.

U.S. biofuels and grains organizations welcome Canada’s proposed Clean Fuel Regulations. Growth Energy, the U.S. Grains Council and the Renewable Fuels Association submitted joint comments to Environment and Climate Change Canada last week on the proposal. The groups say, “The proposed regulation takes a market-based approach to driving carbon reductions in the Canadian fuels market, providing an attractive model for other countries to follow.” The groups add Canada should be applauded for showing global leadership on the implementation of a clean fuel standard. In their comments, the organizations noted the importance of allowing renewable fuel producers to account for carbon capture and sequestration in their carbon intensity scores, regardless of whether the fuel is produced in Canada or the United States. This regulation, the groups say, coupled with the recent announcement in the United Kingdom that it is moving from E5 to E10 by September, shows that more countries are committed to expanding the role of biofuels in meeting their Paris Agreement commitments and long-term environmental goals.

U.S. Biofuels Industry supportive of proposed Canada clean fuel regulations

Missouri Senator Roy Blunt will not seek reelection following his current term. Senator Blunt made the announcement in a video Monday, while referencing his roots growing up on a Missouri dairy farm. 

He’s one of now five Republican Senators who have announced retirement after their current term expires. Other notable Republican Senators to agriculture, Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, have not yet announced their intentions for another term or retirement. 

The Missouri Farm Bureau called Senator Blunt a “tireless champion” for Missouri Agriculture. Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins states, “Our farmers and ranchers have been blessed to work with him in support of agriculture and Missouri values,” adding, 

“We look forward to working with Senator Blunt during his remaining time in office.” The 71-year-old Blunt was first elected to serve in Washington to the House of Representative in 1996, before moving on to the Senate in 2011.

Missouri Senator Roy Blunt will not seek reelection following his current term. Senator Blunt made the announcement in a video Monday, while referencing his roots growing up on a Missouri dairy farm. He’s one of now five Republican Senators who have announced retirement after their current term expires. Other notable Republican Senators to agriculture, Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, have not yet announced their intentions for another term or retirement. The Missouri Farm Bureau called Senator Blunt a “tireless champion” for Missouri Agriculture. Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins states, “Our farmers and ranchers have been blessed to work with him in support of agriculture and Missouri values,” adding, “We look forward to working with Senator Blunt during his remaining time in office.” The 71-year-old Blunt was first elected to serve in Washington to the House of Representative in 1996, before moving on to the Senate in 2011.

Missouri Senator Blunt won’t seek reelection

President Biden inherited a challenging relationship between the U.S. and China, including a trade war, tariffs on both sides, human rights issues, and more. A Pew Research Survey shows that 89 percent, almost nine-in-ten adults, consider China a competitor or enemy rather than a partner. 

Many Americans also support taking a firmer approach to the bilateral relationship, whether by promoting human rights in China, getting tougher on China economically, or even limiting the opportunities of Chinese students to study abroad in the U.S. 

Many in the survey also said China’s powerful economy, its dominance as a manufacturing center – sometimes at the expense of the environment or workers – and issues related to the U.S. and Chinese economic relationship are concerns. Overall, Americans see the current economic ties with China as tenuous: around two-thirds (64%) describe economic relations between the superpowers as somewhat or very bad. 

Just over half of the survey respondents said they have confidence in Biden to deal effectively with China. Partisan politics are far apart on the issue: 83 percent of Democrats say they have confidence in Biden to deal effectively with China, compared to only 19 percent of Republicans who say the same thing.

President Biden inherited a challenging relationship between the U.S. and China, including a trade war, tariffs on both sides, human rights issues, and more. A Pew Research Survey shows that 89 percent, almost nine-in-ten adults, consider China a competitor or enemy rather than a partner. Many Americans also support taking a firmer approach to the bilateral relationship, whether by promoting human rights in China, getting tougher on China economically, or even limiting the opportunities of Chinese students to study abroad in the U.S. Many in the survey also said China’s powerful economy, its dominance as a manufacturing center – sometimes at the expense of the environment or workers – and issues related to the U.S. and Chinese economic relationship are concerns. Overall, Americans see the current economic ties with China as tenuous: around two-thirds (64%) describe economic relations between the superpowers as somewhat or very bad. Just over half of the survey respondents said they have confidence in Biden to deal effectively with China. Partisan politics are far apart on the issue: 83 percent of Democrats say they have confidence in Biden to deal effectively with China, compared to only 19 percent of Republicans who say the same thing.

Americans support tough stance on China

The Senate Saturday passed the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The package, known as the American Rescue Plan, will extend federal unemployment benefits, offer up to $1,400 in direct payments to individuals earning less than $80,000, and increase funding for several nutrition assistance programs. 

Additionally, it authorizes several provisions to bolster rural and agricultural communities, including a pilot program to facilitate the distribution of vaccines and other medical supplies in rural areas, debt relief for historically disadvantaged farmers, and $4 billion to build resilience in the food system. 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “This legislation provides a lifeline that will help keep families afloat until their hardships subside. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated, “I am grateful to the U.S. Senate” for passing the bill, adding&nbsp;the American Rescue Plan is historic, “namely for the transformative debt relief it provides to Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and other farmers of color.” Vilsack says USDA stands ready to these important provisions of the bill once it clears Congress and is signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The Senate Saturday passed the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The package, known as the American Rescue Plan, will extend federal unemployment benefits, offer up to $1,400 in direct payments to individuals earning less than $80,000, and increase funding for several nutrition assistance programs. Additionally, it authorizes several provisions to bolster rural and agricultural communities, including a pilot program to facilitate the distribution of vaccines and other medical supplies in rural areas, debt relief for historically disadvantaged farmers, and $4 billion to build resilience in the food system. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “This legislation provides a lifeline that will help keep families afloat until their hardships subside. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated, “I am grateful to the U.S. Senate” for passing the bill, adding&nbsp;the American Rescue Plan is historic, “namely for the transformative debt relief it provides to Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and other farmers of color.” Vilsack says USDA stands ready to these important provisions of the bill once it clears Congress and is signed into law by President Joe Biden.