Missouri River water releases from the Gavins Point dam will reach winter levels at the end of the month. The Army Corps of Engineers says reductions are scheduled to begin around November 22. 

Releases will be stepped down by approximately 3,000 cubic feet per second each day until reaching the winter release rate of 17,000, ending the 2020 navigation season. The move also signals a fresh start again for the 2021 spring season, with all flood control space available in the reservoir system. 

That’s another relief for farmers along the river, who in 2019 suffered from flooding, and a breakdown of levee systems and the navigation control system. The 2019 flooding started with the March bomb cyclone winter storm that devastated Nebraska agriculture. 

Now, most of the Missouri River basin is experiencing some form of drought. The drought and low river levels have hindered the transit of products along the river this year.

Missouri River water releases from the Gavins Point dam will reach winter levels at the end of the month. The Army Corps of Engineers says reductions are scheduled to begin around November 22. Releases will be stepped down by approximately 3,000 cubic feet per second each day until reaching the winter release rate of 17,000, ending the 2020 navigation season. The move also signals a fresh start again for the 2021 spring season, with all flood control space available in the reservoir system. That’s another relief for farmers along the river, who in 2019 suffered from flooding, and a breakdown of levee systems and the navigation control system. The 2019 flooding started with the March bomb cyclone winter storm that devastated Nebraska agriculture. Now, most of the Missouri River basin is experiencing some form of drought. The drought and low river levels have hindered the transit of products along the river this year.

Missouri river water releases to reach winter rates late this month

The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced the goods and services trade deficit was $63.9 billion in September, down $3.2 billion from $67.0 billion in August. 

This is the first time in three months the trade deficit has shrunk. September total exports were $176.4 billion, $4.4 billion more than August exports. September imports were $240.2 billion, $1.2 billion more than August imports. 

Exports of goods increased $3.7 billion to $122.8 billion in September.&nbsp;&nbsp;The export figures note that exports of foods, feeds, and beverages increased $1.6 billion, including a $1.4 billion increase in soybean exports. The deficit with China decreased $2.1 billion to $24.3 billion in September. 

U.S. farmers are enjoying the increased sales to China, with a bump in commodity markets this fall. The Department of Agriculture reports weekly corn sales were 16 percent higher than a week ago. Weekly soybean sales slipped but remained at the highest pace in two years.

The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced the goods and services trade deficit was $63.9 billion in September, down $3.2 billion from $67.0 billion in August. This is the first time in three months the trade deficit has shrunk. September total exports were $176.4 billion, $4.4 billion more than August exports. September imports were $240.2 billion, $1.2 billion more than August imports. Exports of goods increased $3.7 billion to $122.8 billion in September.&nbsp;&nbsp;The export figures note that exports of foods, feeds, and beverages increased $1.6 billion, including a $1.4 billion increase in soybean exports. The deficit with China decreased $2.1 billion to $24.3 billion in September. U.S. farmers are enjoying the increased sales to China, with a bump in commodity markets this fall. The Department of Agriculture reports weekly corn sales were 16 percent higher than a week ago. Weekly soybean sales slipped but remained at the highest pace in two years.

Trade deficit shrinks for first time in three months

The Trump Administration is requesting the U.S. Supreme Court extend the response deadline to a petition from oil refiners that the court review a prior court decision. The request would push their response deadline to December 14 from November 12, according to Reuters. 

The case relates to waivers issued to refiners under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Earlier this year, an appeals court ruled the Environmental Protection Agency waivers granted to small refineries after 2010 should only be approved as extensions. 

Farm and biofuel groups welcomed the ruling, and the EPA later tossed out several exemptions. Still, more than 50 waivers are pending action by the EPA, and EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said this week, any action should wait until after the Supreme Court petition is wrapped up. 

Oil refiners filed the petition in September. The EPA says it needs more time to provide a full government response to the petition. Biofuel groups say the delay provides further uncertainty of the matter.

The Trump Administration is requesting the U.S. Supreme Court extend the response deadline to a petition from oil refiners that the court review a prior court decision. The request would push their response deadline to December 14 from November 12, according to Reuters. The case relates to waivers issued to refiners under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Earlier this year, an appeals court ruled the Environmental Protection Agency waivers granted to small refineries after 2010 should only be approved as extensions. Farm and biofuel groups welcomed the ruling, and the EPA later tossed out several exemptions. Still, more than 50 waivers are pending action by the EPA, and EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said this week, any action should wait until after the Supreme Court petition is wrapped up. Oil refiners filed the petition in September. The EPA says it needs more time to provide a full government response to the petition. Biofuel groups say the delay provides further uncertainty of the matter.

Trump administration seeks extension to respond to biofuel petition

Control of the U.S. Senate may not be known until January and could further change the Senate Agriculture Committee's makeup because of a runoff vote in Georgia. 

The runoff results from Republican incumbent Kelly Loeffler being appointed earlier this year to take the seat of Republican Johnny Isakson, who resigned at the end of 2019, citing health reasons. Republicans held a slight lead, 47-45, to control the Senate, but some races were still too close to call by midday Wednesday. 

Loeffler is a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and is running to serve the remaining two years of Isakson's term. Loeffler will face Democrat Raphael Warnock, who received 31 percent of the special election vote Tuesday, while Loeffler received 26 percent. To win Tuesday, a candidate must have received 50 percent of the vote. 

Returning members up for reelection to the Senate Agriculture Committee Include Republicans Mitch McConnell, Joni Ernst and Cindy Hyde-Smith. Returning Democrats include Tina Smith and Richard Durbin, assuming they return to the committee next year.

Control of the U.S. Senate may not be known until January and could further change the Senate Agriculture Committee's makeup because of a runoff vote in Georgia. The runoff results from Republican incumbent Kelly Loeffler being appointed earlier this year to take the seat of Republican Johnny Isakson, who resigned at the end of 2019, citing health reasons. Republicans held a slight lead, 47-45, to control the Senate, but some races were still too close to call by midday Wednesday. Loeffler is a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and is running to serve the remaining two years of Isakson's term. Loeffler will face Democrat Raphael Warnock, who received 31 percent of the special election vote Tuesday, while Loeffler received 26 percent. To win Tuesday, a candidate must have received 50 percent of the vote. Returning members up for reelection to the Senate Agriculture Committee Include Republicans Mitch McConnell, Joni Ernst and Cindy Hyde-Smith. Returning Democrats include Tina Smith and Richard Durbin, assuming they return to the committee next year.

Senate control, ag committee makeup, may be decided in January

Roger Marshall won the Senate race in Kanas to replace Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts. The Republican Marshall won the seat with 53 percent of the vote. 

Roberts has served Kansas since 1981, starting in the House of Representatives. Roberts has also served as both the Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee. 

Marshall is a member of the House Ag Committee, serving on Commodity Exchanges, Energy and Credit, and the Livestock and Foreign Agriculture subcommittees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marshall represented the large First District of Kansas since 2017.&nbsp; 

Republican Tracey Mann won the district seat with 71 percent of the vote. In his victory speech, Mann said, “I vow to be an advocate for agriculture.”&nbsp;&nbsp;With the retirement of Roberts and Republican Representative Mike Conaway of Texas, and the defeat of Democrat Collin Peterson, three of the top four agriculture positions in Congress will have new representation.

Roger Marshall won the Senate race in Kanas to replace Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts. The Republican Marshall won the seat with 53 percent of the vote. Roberts has served Kansas since 1981, starting in the House of Representatives. Roberts has also served as both the Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee. Marshall is a member of the House Ag Committee, serving on Commodity Exchanges, Energy and Credit, and the Livestock and Foreign Agriculture subcommittees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marshall represented the large First District of Kansas since 2017.&nbsp; Republican Tracey Mann won the district seat with 71 percent of the vote. In his victory speech, Mann said, “I vow to be an advocate for agriculture.”&nbsp;&nbsp;With the retirement of Roberts and Republican Representative Mike Conaway of Texas, and the defeat of Democrat Collin Peterson, three of the top four agriculture positions in Congress will have new representation.

Marshall wins Kansas senate race to replace Roberts

Agriculture lost decades of experience in the defeat of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson. The Minnesota Democrat lost Tuesday to the Republican Challenger Michelle Fischbach, garnering 53 percent to Peterson’s 39 percent of votes in Minnesota’s District 7. 

In a statement, Peterson said, “We ran a strong and positive campaign, but with the President winning this district by 30 points again, and the millions in outside money that was spent to attack me, the partisan tilt of this district was just too much to overcome." 

Peterson has led Democrats on the committee for the last three farm bills. Based on seniority, Democratic Representative’s Jim Costa of California, David Scott of Georgia, or Marcia Fudge of Ohio, could become the next House Agriculture Committee Chair. 

Fischbach’s campaign has indicated she would seek a seat on the committee. Democrats retained control of the House but did lose a few seats, thinning the majority margin.

Agriculture lost decades of experience in the defeat of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson. The Minnesota Democrat lost Tuesday to the Republican Challenger Michelle Fischbach, garnering 53 percent to Peterson’s 39 percent of votes in Minnesota’s District 7. In a statement, Peterson said, “We ran a strong and positive campaign, but with the President winning this district by 30 points again, and the millions in outside money that was spent to attack me, the partisan tilt of this district was just too much to overcome." Peterson has led Democrats on the committee for the last three farm bills. Based on seniority, Democratic Representative’s Jim Costa of California, David Scott of Georgia, or Marcia Fudge of Ohio, could become the next House Agriculture Committee Chair. Fischbach’s campaign has indicated she would seek a seat on the committee. Democrats retained control of the House but did lose a few seats, thinning the majority margin.

House ag chair defeated

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association this week released a comprehensive industry feedyard audit tool. The organization says the Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit will serve as a standardized audit tool based on the science and common sense established in the Beef Quality Assurance, or BQA program. 

Though the audit tool is owned by NCBA, auditing of feedyards will only be conducted through business-to-business activity within the cattle industry. NCBA will be maintaining the tool with updates as science dictates. To ensure consistency and integrity in auditing, the Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit tool has been certified through the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization. 

The Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit was built based on BQA principles and includes key standards of animal care that are directly related to animal health and welfare that contribute to a safe beef supply. Results from the audit can provide information back to the feedyard to drive improvement and measure the effectiveness of the operation’s implementation of BQA standards.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association this week released a comprehensive industry feedyard audit tool. The organization says the Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit will serve as a standardized audit tool based on the science and common sense established in the Beef Quality Assurance, or BQA program. Though the audit tool is owned by NCBA, auditing of feedyards will only be conducted through business-to-business activity within the cattle industry. NCBA will be maintaining the tool with updates as science dictates. To ensure consistency and integrity in auditing, the Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit tool has been certified through the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization. The Cattle Industry Feedyard Audit was built based on BQA principles and includes key standards of animal care that are directly related to animal health and welfare that contribute to a safe beef supply. Results from the audit can provide information back to the feedyard to drive improvement and measure the effectiveness of the operation’s implementation of BQA standards.

NCBA: Industry feedyard audit tool now available

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler is taking a wait and see approach regarding 35 waiver requests under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Administrator Wheeler told Agri-Talk earlier this week, "The refiners appealed that to the Supreme Court; we're waiting to see if they take it up, and what they do with that." 

Earlier this year, an appeals court ruled the EPA could not grant waivers for refiners whose previous wavers have lapsed. The oil industry is appealing the ruling. Wheeler adds, "I think it would be inappropriate for me to either grant or deny them until that litigation has completely run its course." 

The EPA is also considering an additional 17 gap-year waiver requests that are expected to be denied. In September, the EPA denied 54 gap year waivers. The Renewable Fuels Association at the time called the requests a “bizarre attempt" by the oil industry to circumvent the appeals court ruling.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler is taking a wait and see approach regarding 35 waiver requests under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Administrator Wheeler told Agri-Talk earlier this week, "The refiners appealed that to the Supreme Court; we're waiting to see if they take it up, and what they do with that." Earlier this year, an appeals court ruled the EPA could not grant waivers for refiners whose previous wavers have lapsed. The oil industry is appealing the ruling. Wheeler adds, "I think it would be inappropriate for me to either grant or deny them until that litigation has completely run its course." The EPA is also considering an additional 17 gap-year waiver requests that are expected to be denied. In September, the EPA denied 54 gap year waivers. The Renewable Fuels Association at the time called the requests a “bizarre attempt" by the oil industry to circumvent the appeals court ruling.

Wheeler waiting on courts before making RFS decisions

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 27 points to a reading of 183 in October, setting an all-time high for the index. Farmers were more optimistic about both the future and current financial situations on their farms. The Current Conditions Index rose 36 points to a reading of 178, and the Future Expectations Index climbed 23 points to a reading of 186. 

Since bottoming out this summer, the ag economy has rebounded sharply, and the dramatic improvement in sentiment mirrors the turnaround in the farm income picture. Organizers say the early fall rally in commodity prices combined with government program payments boosted farm income. 

Corn and soybean prices continued to rally even though U.S. corn yields are expected to set a record high, and USDA projects soybean yields to be the fourth highest on record. Comparing their farm's financial condition today to one year ago, 25 percent of survey respondents said their farm was better off financially now than at the same time last year.

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 27 points to a reading of 183 in October, setting an all-time high for the index. Farmers were more optimistic about both the future and current financial situations on their farms. The Current Conditions Index rose 36 points to a reading of 178, and the Future Expectations Index climbed 23 points to a reading of 186. Since bottoming out this summer, the ag economy has rebounded sharply, and the dramatic improvement in sentiment mirrors the turnaround in the farm income picture. Organizers say the early fall rally in commodity prices combined with government program payments boosted farm income. Corn and soybean prices continued to rally even though U.S. corn yields are expected to set a record high, and USDA projects soybean yields to be the fourth highest on record. Comparing their farm's financial condition today to one year ago, 25 percent of survey respondents said their farm was better off financially now than at the same time last year.

Ag economy barometer reaches all-time high

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer over the weekend announced the suspension of $817 million in trade preferences for Thailand under the Generalized System of Preferences. 

Lighthizer took the action because the country hasn’t made sufficient progress providing the United States with “equitable and reasonable market access” for pork products. 

The decision follows a 2018 petition by the National Pork Producers Council asking the USTR to review Thailand’s eligibility for the GSP program, one that offers duty-free treatment to certain goods entering the United States. 

NPPC President Howard AV Roth says, “For years, Thailand has taken full advantage of special U.S. trade benefits, while imposing a completely unjustified de facto ban on U.S. pork.” 

The United States is Thailand’s number one export market, with almost $4 billion of products annually sent to America under the GSP. Yet, NPPC says Thailand maintains a de facto ban on U.S. pork imports through high tariffs and several non-tariff barriers.

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer over the weekend announced the suspension of $817 million in trade preferences for Thailand under the Generalized System of Preferences. Lighthizer took the action because the country hasn’t made sufficient progress providing the United States with “equitable and reasonable market access” for pork products. The decision follows a 2018 petition by the National Pork Producers Council asking the USTR to review Thailand’s eligibility for the GSP program, one that offers duty-free treatment to certain goods entering the United States. NPPC President Howard AV Roth says, “For years, Thailand has taken full advantage of special U.S. trade benefits, while imposing a completely unjustified de facto ban on U.S. pork.” The United States is Thailand’s number one export market, with almost $4 billion of products annually sent to America under the GSP. Yet, NPPC says Thailand maintains a de facto ban on U.S. pork imports through high tariffs and several non-tariff barriers.

NPPC petition leads to U.S. trade sanctions against Thailand

China is flying a record number of live hogs into the country as it seeks to rebuild hog herds. The nation is seeking to improve genetics and boost productivity, according to Bloomberg News, by flying in more than 15,000 hogs so far this year. 

The move comes as China seeks to increase its hog herd following the African swine fever outbreak. The hogs are worth an estimated $32 million, compared to just $3 million of hogs imported a year ago. China is seeking to modernize its hog production as well, shifting to a model of large-scale production. 

Meanwhile, the more than 15,000 hogs flown into the country come from Denmark, France and the United Kingdom. The number of breeding sows rose 28 percent from a year earlier to 38 million by the end of September. China is also importing a record value and volume of processed pork to fill the protein gap while its herd is repopulated.

China is flying a record number of live hogs into the country as it seeks to rebuild hog herds. The nation is seeking to improve genetics and boost productivity, according to Bloomberg News, by flying in more than 15,000 hogs so far this year. The move comes as China seeks to increase its hog herd following the African swine fever outbreak. The hogs are worth an estimated $32 million, compared to just $3 million of hogs imported a year ago. China is seeking to modernize its hog production as well, shifting to a model of large-scale production. Meanwhile, the more than 15,000 hogs flown into the country come from Denmark, France and the United Kingdom. The number of breeding sows rose 28 percent from a year earlier to 38 million by the end of September. China is also importing a record value and volume of processed pork to fill the protein gap while its herd is repopulated.

China flying in hogs to replenish herds

Election day is finally here—and represents an end to a long campaign season. While the results may be delayed, and there are signals of a messy outcome, for farmers and ranchers, one certainty is the likely reduction in federal direct payments. 

Experts seem to agree that the record direct payments to farmers this year is not a sustainable approach. Either candidate will likely face finding a solution to drawback those payments. If former Vice President Joe Biden should win, Politico points out you can expect a major shift in farm and food programs. 

Most notably would be changes to increase support for nutrition programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and an increased focus on agriculture’s role in climate change. 

A second term with President Donald Trump brings the expectation of continued deregulatory moves, a continuation of the current trade climate, and a likely target to streamline SNAP and other nutrition programs.

Election day is finally here—and represents an end to a long campaign season. While the results may be delayed, and there are signals of a messy outcome, for farmers and ranchers, one certainty is the likely reduction in federal direct payments. Experts seem to agree that the record direct payments to farmers this year is not a sustainable approach. Either candidate will likely face finding a solution to drawback those payments. If former Vice President Joe Biden should win, Politico points out you can expect a major shift in farm and food programs. Most notably would be changes to increase support for nutrition programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and an increased focus on agriculture’s role in climate change. A second term with President Donald Trump brings the expectation of continued deregulatory moves, a continuation of the current trade climate, and a likely target to streamline SNAP and other nutrition programs.

Biden or Trump, what does the future hold for farmers?

The next Commodity Classic will now be a virtual event. The annual conference and trade show had been scheduled to take place March 4-6, in San Antonio, Texas. The change to an alternative digital format became necessary because of restrictions related to COVID-19. The new convention format will take place during the first week of March 2021. 

“This is about doing the right thing for our farmers, exhibitors, stakeholders, and the broader community in terms of health and safety, which is our top priority,” says Anthony Bush of the National Corn Growers Association and who is Co-Chair of the 2021 Commodity Classic. 

“After careful deliberation, we determined the COVID-19 restrictions would prevent us from delivering the type of high-quality experience people have come to expect from the Commodity Classic.” Commodity Classic is now redirecting its efforts toward developing alternative methods of connecting with farmers and agricultural stakeholders. “We realize the total experience can’t be completely replicated online,” Bush adds. 

“Education is a key component of the event, and we are already looking at ways to deliver the high-quality content farmers expect at the Commodity Classic.” The transition to an online event is already underway and more information will be available in the weeks ahead. The 2022 Commodity Classic will be March 10-12, 2022, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The next Commodity Classic will now be a virtual event. The annual conference and trade show had been scheduled to take place March 4-6, in San Antonio, Texas. The change to an alternative digital format became necessary because of restrictions related to COVID-19. The new convention format will take place during the first week of March 2021. “This is about doing the right thing for our farmers, exhibitors, stakeholders, and the broader community in terms of health and safety, which is our top priority,” says Anthony Bush of the National Corn Growers Association and who is Co-Chair of the 2021 Commodity Classic. “After careful deliberation, we determined the COVID-19 restrictions would prevent us from delivering the type of high-quality experience people have come to expect from the Commodity Classic.” Commodity Classic is now redirecting its efforts toward developing alternative methods of connecting with farmers and agricultural stakeholders. “We realize the total experience can’t be completely replicated online,” Bush adds. “Education is a key component of the event, and we are already looking at ways to deliver the high-quality content farmers expect at the Commodity Classic.” The transition to an online event is already underway and more information will be available in the weeks ahead. The 2022 Commodity Classic will be March 10-12, 2022, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Commodity Classic goes virtual in 2021

Lawmakers should consider putting taxes on livestock production and meat consumption to reduce the risk of future deadly pandemics. Reuters says that is the conclusion of a group of international experts called the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, which has more than 130 member states. 

The group published a study last week calling for better protection of nature. “Overconsumption of meat is bad for our health and unsustainable in terms of the environmental impact,” says zoologist Peter Daszak, who chaired the study. “it’s also a driver of pandemic risk.” 

The group says outbreaks of influenza viruses and new pandemic strains have emerged for the most part because of the incredibly dense production of poultry and pigs in some parts of the world, driven by our global consumption patterns. “Breeding cattle for beef is another well-known cause of deforestation and ecosystem destruction in Latin America,” Daszak added. 

The study warns that pandemics will emerge more often, spread faster, cost more, and kill more people than COVID-19 without bold action to halt the habitat destruction that helps viruses hop from wildlife to humans. The group is also asking governments to step up efforts to avert pandemics instead of responding after they hit.

Lawmakers should consider putting taxes on livestock production and meat consumption to reduce the risk of future deadly pandemics. Reuters says that is the conclusion of a group of international experts called the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, which has more than 130 member states. The group published a study last week calling for better protection of nature. “Overconsumption of meat is bad for our health and unsustainable in terms of the environmental impact,” says zoologist Peter Daszak, who chaired the study. “it’s also a driver of pandemic risk.” The group says outbreaks of influenza viruses and new pandemic strains have emerged for the most part because of the incredibly dense production of poultry and pigs in some parts of the world, driven by our global consumption patterns. “Breeding cattle for beef is another well-known cause of deforestation and ecosystem destruction in Latin America,” Daszak added. The study warns that pandemics will emerge more often, spread faster, cost more, and kill more people than COVID-19 without bold action to halt the habitat destruction that helps viruses hop from wildlife to humans. The group is also asking governments to step up efforts to avert pandemics instead of responding after they hit.

Scientists want tax on meat, livestock for pandemic prevention

The 93rd National FFA Convention and Expo may have been virtual this year, but numbers indicate that many members across the country enjoyed the event. 

The number of viewers and participants totaled well over 217,000 people. Due to COVID-19, National FFA made the decision back in late June to host the largest student event virtually this year instead of in-person. 

The event kicked off Tuesday of last week, and students had the opportunity to attend events on a virtual platform. Convention attendees had a chance to view the live general sessions on RFD-TV, The Cowboy Channel, and streaming on FFA.org., where they saw peers from across the country receiving recognition for their hard work and heard from this year’s national FFA officer team. 

“The virtual national FFA convention and expo was a great success,” says Mandy Hazlett, associate director of convention and events for National FFA. &nbsp;“While it might be different this year, we are thrilled to have offered experiences similar to what our members would have enjoyed during an in-person event.” 

She has good news for those who registered and didn’t get to see everything they wanted. Students will still have all access to all this great content and videos through the end of the year. “That means if they didn’t get it all covered in three days, they have time to go back,” Hazlett adds.

The 93rd National FFA Convention and Expo may have been virtual this year, but numbers indicate that many members across the country enjoyed the event. The number of viewers and participants totaled well over 217,000 people. Due to COVID-19, National FFA made the decision back in late June to host the largest student event virtually this year instead of in-person. The event kicked off Tuesday of last week, and students had the opportunity to attend events on a virtual platform. Convention attendees had a chance to view the live general sessions on RFD-TV, The Cowboy Channel, and streaming on FFA.org., where they saw peers from across the country receiving recognition for their hard work and heard from this year’s national FFA officer team. “The virtual national FFA convention and expo was a great success,” says Mandy Hazlett, associate director of convention and events for National FFA. &nbsp;“While it might be different this year, we are thrilled to have offered experiences similar to what our members would have enjoyed during an in-person event.” She has good news for those who registered and didn’t get to see everything they wanted. Students will still have all access to all this great content and videos through the end of the year. “That means if they didn’t get it all covered in three days, they have time to go back,” Hazlett adds.

Historic National FFA Convention and Expo wraps up for 2020

Jeana Curtis, a native of La Plata, Missouri, was crowned 2020 Mrs. United States Agriculture in June in Orlando, Florida.&nbsp; &nbsp;She graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science.

“Being the 2020 national Mrs. United States Agriculture is honestly just a true honor and blessing. To be able to go into a competition like that at the national level and be 100 percent myself and represent the state of Missouri, and then be chosen to represent the nation is very humbling and very honoring,” said Curtis

Curtis chose “Celebrating Crop Diversity in Agriculture” as her platform. She promotes agriculture education beyond cattle and corn. “The Miss United States Agriculture program is all about furthering our own knowledge in order to better represent the industry,” Curtis said.

"I created ‘Celebrating Crop Diversity in Agriculture’ to push myself to learn new areas of the ag industry in order to better represent agriculture as a whole.”&nbsp; Curtis winning the crown now makes it the third year in a row that a Northwest graduate has claimed the top prize.

The Miss United States Agriculture pageant is a women’s advocacy program meant to further the education of agriculture in the United States. Contestants from throughout the United States compete in categories of interview, on-stage introduction, evening wear, on-stage question, state fun fashion, and photogenic. Scholarships and prize money are awarded to the top contestants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604088904961.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeana Curtis, a native of La Plata, Missouri, was crowned 2020 Mrs. United States Agriculture in June in Orlando, Florida.&nbsp; &nbsp;She graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science.“Being the 2020 national Mrs. United States Agriculture is honestly just a true honor and blessing. To be able to go into a competition like that at the national level and be 100 percent myself and represent the state of Missouri, and then be chosen to represent the nation is very humbling and very honoring,” said CurtisCurtis chose “Celebrating Crop Diversity in Agriculture” as her platform. She promotes agriculture education beyond cattle and corn. “The Miss United States Agriculture program is all about furthering our own knowledge in order to better represent the industry,” Curtis said. "I created ‘Celebrating Crop Diversity in Agriculture’ to push myself to learn new areas of the ag industry in order to better represent agriculture as a whole.”&nbsp; Curtis winning the crown now makes it the third year in a row that a Northwest graduate has claimed the top prize.The Miss United States Agriculture pageant is a women’s advocacy program meant to further the education of agriculture in the United States. Contestants from throughout the United States compete in categories of interview, on-stage introduction, evening wear, on-stage question, state fun fashion, and photogenic. Scholarships and prize money are awarded to the top contestants.

Jeana Curtis crowned 2020 Mrs. United State Agriculture

The Department of the Interior this week removed the gray wolf from the endangered species list, signaling a successful recovery under the Endangered Species Act. 

The gray wolf spent more than four decades on the list, but the population is now thriving in the lower 48 states. State and tribal wildlife management agencies will now be responsible for the management and protection of the gray wolf. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says the action shows “careful management and partnerships between federal and state agencies can result in the successful recovery of a once-threatened species.” 

A National Cattlemen’s Beef Association representative states, "The road to recovery and delisting has been fraught with purely political lawsuits that promoted emotion over fact, and the facts are clear: the gray wolf population is recovered.” 

National Association of Conservation Districts President Tim Palmer adds, “Its delisting is a credit to the hard work of locally-led conservation.” The gray wolf has been federally protected under ESA since 1967.

The Department of the Interior this week removed the gray wolf from the endangered species list, signaling a successful recovery under the Endangered Species Act. The gray wolf spent more than four decades on the list, but the population is now thriving in the lower 48 states. State and tribal wildlife management agencies will now be responsible for the management and protection of the gray wolf. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says the action shows “careful management and partnerships between federal and state agencies can result in the successful recovery of a once-threatened species.” A National Cattlemen’s Beef Association representative states, "The road to recovery and delisting has been fraught with purely political lawsuits that promoted emotion over fact, and the facts are clear: the gray wolf population is recovered.” National Association of Conservation Districts President Tim Palmer adds, “Its delisting is a credit to the hard work of locally-led conservation.” The gray wolf has been federally protected under ESA since 1967.

Gray wolf delisted from endangered species list

More than half of the United States is experiencing a drought as La Nina favors warmer and drier weather across much of the country. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows much of the drought west of the Mississippi River and extends into Illinois and Indiana, as well as the Northeast. 

Drought conditions cover 91 percent of the 11 states in the West as determined by the Drought Monitor, with extreme drought conditions covering 40 percent of the region. That drought area expands into west Texas and the Plains states. 

Drought conditions cover 98 percent of the High Plains states, and 35 percent of the Midwest. The southeast, including Louisiana, are largely spared from drought conditions, but at the cost of an active hurricane season. 

Earlier this month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported the ongoing La Nina is expected to expand and intensify drought across the southern and central Plains, eastern Gulf Coast, and in California during the months ahead.

More than half of the United States is experiencing a drought as La Nina favors warmer and drier weather across much of the country. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows much of the drought west of the Mississippi River and extends into Illinois and Indiana, as well as the Northeast. Drought conditions cover 91 percent of the 11 states in the West as determined by the Drought Monitor, with extreme drought conditions covering 40 percent of the region. That drought area expands into west Texas and the Plains states. Drought conditions cover 98 percent of the High Plains states, and 35 percent of the Midwest. The southeast, including Louisiana, are largely spared from drought conditions, but at the cost of an active hurricane season. Earlier this month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported the ongoing La Nina is expected to expand and intensify drought across the southern and central Plains, eastern Gulf Coast, and in California during the months ahead.

La Nina fueling western drought

Another day closer to the election brings another investment announcement in rural communities by the Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a recent string of investments, USDA Wednesday announced another $871 million for rural communities. 

This time, USDA is funding 256 projects through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program.&nbsp; The investments will assist communities in building or upgrading schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. 

The funds will benefit 3.5 million residents in 43 states and Guam. Over the last few weeks, USDA has announced investments in rural communities near-daily, including millions for rural broadband.

USDA Wednesday also announced a $1.8 million investment for rural broadband in Iowa, and $5 million for areas in rural Kentucky. That announcement is part of the $550 million allocated by Congress for the second round of the ReConnect Program. 

Both the Community Facilities Program and the Reconnect Program are administered by USDA Rural Development.

Another day closer to the election brings another investment announcement in rural communities by the Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a recent string of investments, USDA Wednesday announced another $871 million for rural communities. This time, USDA is funding 256 projects through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program.&nbsp; The investments will assist communities in building or upgrading schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. The funds will benefit 3.5 million residents in 43 states and Guam. Over the last few weeks, USDA has announced investments in rural communities near-daily, including millions for rural broadband.USDA Wednesday also announced a $1.8 million investment for rural broadband in Iowa, and $5 million for areas in rural Kentucky. That announcement is part of the $550 million allocated by Congress for the second round of the ReConnect Program. Both the Community Facilities Program and the Reconnect Program are administered by USDA Rural Development.

USDA announces more rural community and broadband investments

Americans are again stocking up the pantry over supply chain, coronavirus and political unrest fears. In a report from industry publication Progressive Grocer, research shows more than half of Americans say they're stockpiling groceries or plan to stockpile. 

The research cites worries about supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 surges and political unrest amid the presidential election. Industry leaders are urging retailers to prepare for a rise in shoppers. 

Walmart CEO Doug McMIlion says, “It will be choppy for months to come as we all deal with the volatility and as things change.” Roughly 52 percent of Americans plan to stockpile this fall, according to data from the Sports and Leisure Research Group. 

Additionally, 38 percent of consumers stocked up at the beginning of the pandemic and would do so again with a new shutdown, while 15 percent of consumers didn't stock up earlier this year, but would do so if there's a new shutdown.

Americans are again stocking up the pantry over supply chain, coronavirus and political unrest fears. In a report from industry publication Progressive Grocer, research shows more than half of Americans say they're stockpiling groceries or plan to stockpile. The research cites worries about supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 surges and political unrest amid the presidential election. Industry leaders are urging retailers to prepare for a rise in shoppers. Walmart CEO Doug McMIlion says, “It will be choppy for months to come as we all deal with the volatility and as things change.” Roughly 52 percent of Americans plan to stockpile this fall, according to data from the Sports and Leisure Research Group. Additionally, 38 percent of consumers stocked up at the beginning of the pandemic and would do so again with a new shutdown, while 15 percent of consumers didn't stock up earlier this year, but would do so if there's a new shutdown.

Consumers are stocking up again amid COVID, political unrest fears

The Environmental Protection Agency is mulling over a potential label change for E15 at gas pumps. The possible move is seen as a way to appease the biofuel industry’s concerns that current labels discourage use of the fuel, according to a report by Reuters. 

Current labeling warns of possible engine damage to older vehicles. An announcement could come soon, but there’s no detail yet on how the Trump Administration might alter the labeling. 

President Donald Trump did say via Twitter last month that he would allow states to permit fuel retailers to use their current pumps to sell E15. 

Expanding the market for E15 is a policy goal for farmers and the ethanol industry, including calls for the national standard to move from E10 to E15.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Going from an E10 blend to an E15 blend would increase ethanol production by seven billion gallons and corn demand by over two billion bushels a year, according to Growth Energy.

The Environmental Protection Agency is mulling over a potential label change for E15 at gas pumps. The possible move is seen as a way to appease the biofuel industry’s concerns that current labels discourage use of the fuel, according to a report by Reuters. Current labeling warns of possible engine damage to older vehicles. An announcement could come soon, but there’s no detail yet on how the Trump Administration might alter the labeling. President Donald Trump did say via Twitter last month that he would allow states to permit fuel retailers to use their current pumps to sell E15. Expanding the market for E15 is a policy goal for farmers and the ethanol industry, including calls for the national standard to move from E10 to E15.&nbsp;&nbsp;Going from an E10 blend to an E15 blend would increase ethanol production by seven billion gallons and corn demand by over two billion bushels a year, according to Growth Energy.

EPA considering E15 label changes at gas pumps

Ethanol Groups this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding emissions standard compliance calculations for Flex Fuel vehicles. 

The Renewable Fuels Association supports the EPA approach to “maintaining some level of certainty for automakers in the absence of future guidance.” RFA also called on the EPA to provide a long-term floor and "more robust" E85 usage factors for future model years, given expected growth and the benefits provided by ethanol flex fuels. 

RFA Vice President for Regulatory Affairs states, “it is clear that manufacturers will hesitate to invest in certain technologies, like FFVs, unless there is some assurance that those vehicles technologies will help enable CAFE and GHG standard compliance over multiple model years." 

Growth Energy's comments to EPA state recent trends in government and private investment in biofuels infrastructure, and updated data on E85 availability all lead to growth in higher biofuel blends. Growth Energy says the EPA should "provide appropriate, immediate credit to automakers to continue to produce flex-fuel vehicles to run on these higher biofuel blends."

Ethanol Groups this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding emissions standard compliance calculations for Flex Fuel vehicles. The Renewable Fuels Association supports the EPA approach to “maintaining some level of certainty for automakers in the absence of future guidance.” RFA also called on the EPA to provide a long-term floor and "more robust" E85 usage factors for future model years, given expected growth and the benefits provided by ethanol flex fuels. RFA Vice President for Regulatory Affairs states, “it is clear that manufacturers will hesitate to invest in certain technologies, like FFVs, unless there is some assurance that those vehicles technologies will help enable CAFE and GHG standard compliance over multiple model years." Growth Energy's comments to EPA state recent trends in government and private investment in biofuels infrastructure, and updated data on E85 availability all lead to growth in higher biofuel blends. Growth Energy says the EPA should "provide appropriate, immediate credit to automakers to continue to produce flex-fuel vehicles to run on these higher biofuel blends."

Ethanol groups submit comments on flex fuel vehicles

The Environmental Protection Agency late Tuesday announced five-year registrations for two dicamba products and the extension of a third. 

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler says the registrations include new control measures to ensure the products can be used effectively while protecting the environment, including non-target plants&nbsp;and other crops not tolerant to dicamba. 

Bayer’s ExtendiMax and BASF’s Engenia received five-year registrations, while Syngenta’s Tavium registration was extended. Corteva’s FeXapan was not included in the announcement. A federal court in June tossed out the registrations for ExtendiMax, Engenia and FeXapan, but did not include Tavium. 

The registrations feature new control measures, including requiring a volatility reduction agent and specific downwind buffers. The federal regulation&nbsp;prohibits over the top application of dicamba on soybeans after June 30 and cotton after July 30. Farm groups have called on the EPA to reregister the products for 2021. 

However, a staffer at the Center for Food Safety via Twitter called the action "rushed before the election, as a political prop." American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall and National Cotton Council Chairman Kent Fountain joined Wheeler for the announcement in Georgia.

The Environmental Protection Agency late Tuesday announced five-year registrations for two dicamba products and the extension of a third. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler says the registrations include new control measures to ensure the products can be used effectively while protecting the environment, including non-target plants&nbsp;and other crops not tolerant to dicamba. Bayer’s ExtendiMax and BASF’s Engenia received five-year registrations, while Syngenta’s Tavium registration was extended. Corteva’s FeXapan was not included in the announcement. A federal court in June tossed out the registrations for ExtendiMax, Engenia and FeXapan, but did not include Tavium. The registrations feature new control measures, including requiring a volatility reduction agent and specific downwind buffers. The federal regulation&nbsp;prohibits over the top application of dicamba on soybeans after June 30 and cotton after July 30. Farm groups have called on the EPA to reregister the products for 2021. However, a staffer at the Center for Food Safety via Twitter called the action "rushed before the election, as a political prop." American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall and National Cotton Council Chairman Kent Fountain joined Wheeler for the announcement in Georgia.

EPA extends Dicamba registrations

Pumpkins are one of the most famous symbols of fall, and the Department of Agriculture is highlighting the top ten pumpkin producing states. 

Just in time before Halloween, in a report by the Economic Research Service, USDA notes production is widely dispersed throughout the United States, with all States producing some pumpkins. 

However, about 62 percent of pumpkin acres were cultivated in only ten States. By acreage and by weight, Illinois is consistently the Nation's largest pumpkin producer. Unlike all other States, most Illinois pumpkins are used for pie filling and other processed foods. 

The lower price associated with pumpkins destined for further processing explains why Illinois was second in the value of pumpkin production at $17.1 million in 2019. 

Pumpkins from the other states surveyed annually by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service were primarily intended for decorative or carving use. California leads the Nation in terms of value of production, at $22.8 million.

Pumpkins are one of the most famous symbols of fall, and the Department of Agriculture is highlighting the top ten pumpkin producing states. Just in time before Halloween, in a report by the Economic Research Service, USDA notes production is widely dispersed throughout the United States, with all States producing some pumpkins. However, about 62 percent of pumpkin acres were cultivated in only ten States. By acreage and by weight, Illinois is consistently the Nation's largest pumpkin producer. Unlike all other States, most Illinois pumpkins are used for pie filling and other processed foods. The lower price associated with pumpkins destined for further processing explains why Illinois was second in the value of pumpkin production at $17.1 million in 2019. Pumpkins from the other states surveyed annually by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service were primarily intended for decorative or carving use. California leads the Nation in terms of value of production, at $22.8 million.

USDA reports top ten pumpkin producing states

The latest Cattle on Feed report shows higher cattle inventories as of October 1, 2020. The Department of Agriculture released the monthly report Friday. 

USDA reported cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.7 million head.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inventory was four percent above October 1, 2019. 

This is the highest October 1 inventory since the series began in 1996. Placements in feedlots during September totaled 2.23 million head, six percent above 2019. 

In an analysis of the report, American Farm Bureau Federation economist Michael Nepveux says, “After strong impacts from the pandemic in April and May, the number of cattle on feed has largely followed seasonal patterns.” 

However, the impacts of the pandemic are still contributing to market uncertainty. Nepveux adds, “It will be interesting to see how the recession eventually impacts beef demand, as recessions tend to not be kind to this particular animal protein.”

The latest Cattle on Feed report shows higher cattle inventories as of October 1, 2020. The Department of Agriculture released the monthly report Friday. USDA reported cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.7 million head.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inventory was four percent above October 1, 2019. This is the highest October 1 inventory since the series began in 1996. Placements in feedlots during September totaled 2.23 million head, six percent above 2019. In an analysis of the report, American Farm Bureau Federation economist Michael Nepveux says, “After strong impacts from the pandemic in April and May, the number of cattle on feed has largely followed seasonal patterns.” However, the impacts of the pandemic are still contributing to market uncertainty. Nepveux adds, “It will be interesting to see how the recession eventually impacts beef demand, as recessions tend to not be kind to this particular animal protein.”