As farmers are ramping up toward planting season, drought conditions continue in many of the top corn-growing states. Last week, the U.S. drought monitor showed 11 percent of Midwest acres are in moderate drought. Over half of the High Plains are in a severe drought, and 19 percent of the region is experiencing extreme drought conditions. 

For example, Iowa, the number one corn-producing state, faces extreme drought conditions in the northwest part of the state. Roughly 10 percent of Iowa is in a severe drought. Soil moisture is more favorable in Illinois, but the central part of that state is abnormally dry. 

A small part of the east-central region is in moderate drought. Nearly all of Nebraska faces some moisture stress at this point, with the southwest corner of the state in extreme drought. The entire state of Minnesota is abnormally dry, with about 40 percent of the state, especially in the northern third, in moderate drought. 

Only nine percent of the acres in Indiana are in moderate drought, primarily in the northwest part of the state. More than half of Kansas is abnormally dry, while drought conditions are severe in half of South Dakota. Ohio and Missouri have much less drought to deal with than other states. About 61 percent of Wisconsin is abnormally dry, with almost half of Michigan in the same category.

As farmers are ramping up toward planting season, drought conditions continue in many of the top corn-growing states. Last week, the U.S. drought monitor showed 11 percent of Midwest acres are in moderate drought. Over half of the High Plains are in a severe drought, and 19 percent of the region is experiencing extreme drought conditions. For example, Iowa, the number one corn-producing state, faces extreme drought conditions in the northwest part of the state. Roughly 10 percent of Iowa is in a severe drought. Soil moisture is more favorable in Illinois, but the central part of that state is abnormally dry. A small part of the east-central region is in moderate drought. Nearly all of Nebraska faces some moisture stress at this point, with the southwest corner of the state in extreme drought. The entire state of Minnesota is abnormally dry, with about 40 percent of the state, especially in the northern third, in moderate drought. Only nine percent of the acres in Indiana are in moderate drought, primarily in the northwest part of the state. More than half of Kansas is abnormally dry, while drought conditions are severe in half of South Dakota. Ohio and Missouri have much less drought to deal with than other states. About 61 percent of Wisconsin is abnormally dry, with almost half of Michigan in the same category.

Drought conditions persist in the main corn growing states

A recent Farm Futures survey found why farmers feel threatened by potential policy objectives under the Biden administration. The survey shows nearly nine of every ten farmers believe taxes will go up under a Biden administration. 

Another 71 percent believe WOTUS will be overturned. Only 22 percent believe markets will stabilize with a new trade strategy. And four of every five farmers believe there will be fewer government ad hoc funds going to agriculture. 

An Iowa farmer told Farm Futures, "I am worried about everything in that survey." The publication points out the unease in farm country today feels similar to farmer attitudes after President Barack Obama was elected. 

And while farm organizations and lobbyists engage with new political leaders on Capitol Hill, it may be some comfort to remember that, "when it comes to ag policy, usually the worst doesn't happen, but you need to be prepared for changes," according to a Farm Futures analyst.

A recent Farm Futures survey found why farmers feel threatened by potential policy objectives under the Biden administration. The survey shows nearly nine of every ten farmers believe taxes will go up under a Biden administration. Another 71 percent believe WOTUS will be overturned. Only 22 percent believe markets will stabilize with a new trade strategy. And four of every five farmers believe there will be fewer government ad hoc funds going to agriculture. An Iowa farmer told Farm Futures, "I am worried about everything in that survey." The publication points out the unease in farm country today feels similar to farmer attitudes after President Barack Obama was elected. And while farm organizations and lobbyists engage with new political leaders on Capitol Hill, it may be some comfort to remember that, "when it comes to ag policy, usually the worst doesn't happen, but you need to be prepared for changes," according to a Farm Futures analyst.

Farm Futures: Why farmers feel threatened by Biden Administration

Ethanol production rebounded last week, according to data from the Energy Information Administration and the Renewable Fuels Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the week ending February 26, ethanol production scaled up 29.0 percent following the prior week lull, or 191,000 barrels per day, to 849,000, equivalent to 35.6 million gallons daily. 

Production remained 21.3 percent below the same week last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 2.6 percent, equivalent to an annualized rate of 12.85 billion gallons. 

Meanwhile, Ethanol stocks declined 1.6 percent, which was 10.2 percent below a year ago. Inventories drew down across all regions except the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, recovered by 13.1 percent to 124.9 billion gallons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gasoline demand was 11.3 percent less than a year ago. Refiner and blender net inputs of ethanol improved by 12.3 percent to a nine-week, and there were zero imports of ethanol reported for the week.

Ethanol production rebounded last week, according to data from the Energy Information Administration and the Renewable Fuels Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the week ending February 26, ethanol production scaled up 29.0 percent following the prior week lull, or 191,000 barrels per day, to 849,000, equivalent to 35.6 million gallons daily. Production remained 21.3 percent below the same week last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 2.6 percent, equivalent to an annualized rate of 12.85 billion gallons. Meanwhile, Ethanol stocks declined 1.6 percent, which was 10.2 percent below a year ago. Inventories drew down across all regions except the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, recovered by 13.1 percent to 124.9 billion gallons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gasoline demand was 11.3 percent less than a year ago. Refiner and blender net inputs of ethanol improved by 12.3 percent to a nine-week, and there were zero imports of ethanol reported for the week.

Ethanol production rebounds from recent collapse

A group of Senators this week reintroduced the Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support, or FLOODS Act. The legislation seeks to establish a National Integrated Flood Information System. 

The lawmakers say the bill would improve the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s forecasting and communication of flood, tornado and hurricane events. Senator Roger Wicker, a Mississippi Republican, along with Michigan Democrat Gary Peters, reintroduced the bill. 

Wicker says recent flooding events in his state "underscore the importance of an effective understanding and response to high water." The bill would establish partnerships with institutions of higher education and federal agencies to improve total water predictions, designate a service coordination hydrologist at each National Weather Service River Forecast Center and evaluate and improve flood watches and warnings. 

Additionally, the legislation encourages NOAA to evaluate acoustic tracking and measuring of windstorms, use aerial surveys of floodwaters to improve flood mapping, and improve modeling of freshwater outflow into the ocean.

A group of Senators this week reintroduced the Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support, or FLOODS Act. The legislation seeks to establish a National Integrated Flood Information System. The lawmakers say the bill would improve the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s forecasting and communication of flood, tornado and hurricane events. Senator Roger Wicker, a Mississippi Republican, along with Michigan Democrat Gary Peters, reintroduced the bill. Wicker says recent flooding events in his state "underscore the importance of an effective understanding and response to high water." The bill would establish partnerships with institutions of higher education and federal agencies to improve total water predictions, designate a service coordination hydrologist at each National Weather Service River Forecast Center and evaluate and improve flood watches and warnings. Additionally, the legislation encourages NOAA to evaluate acoustic tracking and measuring of windstorms, use aerial surveys of floodwaters to improve flood mapping, and improve modeling of freshwater outflow into the ocean.

Wicker, Peters reintroduce FLOODS Act

An editorial by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack supports passage of the American Rescue Plan. The legislation, passed by the House and up for consideration in the Senate, is President Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion economic relief package to help the nation recover from the coronavirus pandemic. 

Specifically, Vilsack says the plan is "one of the strongest pieces of legislation in recent memory dedicated to addressing hunger and food insecurity." 

Vilsack says hunger has increased throughout the pandemic, with as many as 30 million adults and 14 million children living in a household where they may not always get enough to eat. Further, the pandemic has exacerbated longstanding disparities in food insecurity. 

The American Rescue Plan provides funding to USDA to expand federal nutrition assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, and a complimentary program that helps mothers and children under five and other emergency benefits to children, seniors, and the disabled.

An editorial by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack supports passage of the American Rescue Plan. The legislation, passed by the House and up for consideration in the Senate, is President Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion economic relief package to help the nation recover from the coronavirus pandemic. Specifically, Vilsack says the plan is "one of the strongest pieces of legislation in recent memory dedicated to addressing hunger and food insecurity." Vilsack says hunger has increased throughout the pandemic, with as many as 30 million adults and 14 million children living in a household where they may not always get enough to eat. Further, the pandemic has exacerbated longstanding disparities in food insecurity. The American Rescue Plan provides funding to USDA to expand federal nutrition assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, and a complimentary program that helps mothers and children under five and other emergency benefits to children, seniors, and the disabled.

Vilsack: Hungry Americans need the American rescue plan now

Farm income and agricultural credit conditions improved significantly according to agricultural lenders across major portions of the U.S. in the fourth quarter. Despite turbulent conditions related to the ongoing pandemic, prices of several agricultural commodities increased sharply in the final months of the year. 

Dramatic improvements in crop prices drove the sharpest turnaround in agricultural lending conditions in more than a decade, according to the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank. 

On average, farm loan repayments increased for the first time since 2013. The rate of loan repayment increased from a year ago in all participating Federal Reserve Districts except Dallas, with the fastest pace of increase reported in the Minneapolis and Chicago Districts. 

Other financial indicators also shifted quickly in the fourth quarter as borrowers experienced relief from previous years of financial stresses. On average, loan demand contracted at the fastest pace since 2013 and fund availability increased at the fastest pace since 2013, according to agricultural bankers.

Farm income and agricultural credit conditions improved significantly according to agricultural lenders across major portions of the U.S. in the fourth quarter. Despite turbulent conditions related to the ongoing pandemic, prices of several agricultural commodities increased sharply in the final months of the year. Dramatic improvements in crop prices drove the sharpest turnaround in agricultural lending conditions in more than a decade, according to the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank. On average, farm loan repayments increased for the first time since 2013. The rate of loan repayment increased from a year ago in all participating Federal Reserve Districts except Dallas, with the fastest pace of increase reported in the Minneapolis and Chicago Districts. Other financial indicators also shifted quickly in the fourth quarter as borrowers experienced relief from previous years of financial stresses. On average, loan demand contracted at the fastest pace since 2013 and fund availability increased at the fastest pace since 2013, according to agricultural bankers.

Ag bankers signal strong recovery in farm finance

Farm and livestock groups this week welcomed introduced of the Cattle Market Transparency Act. Senators Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican and Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat, introduced the legislation. 

The bill establishes regional mandatory minimum thresholds of negotiated cash and negotiated grid trades to enable price discovery in cattle marketing regions. The legislation would also require USDA to create and maintain a publicly available library of marketing contracts between packers and producers in a manner that ensures confidentiality. 

Finally, the bill mandates that packers report to USDA the number of cattle scheduled to be delivered for slaughter each day for the next 14 days and require USDA to report this information daily. 

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and American Farm Bureau all responded favorably to the bill. NCBA welcomed a discussion on market transparency, stating, “We have worked and will continue to work alongside our affiliates, Congress, and USDA toward regionally robust negotiated trade.”

Farm and livestock groups this week welcomed introduced of the Cattle Market Transparency Act. Senators Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican and Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat, introduced the legislation. The bill establishes regional mandatory minimum thresholds of negotiated cash and negotiated grid trades to enable price discovery in cattle marketing regions. The legislation would also require USDA to create and maintain a publicly available library of marketing contracts between packers and producers in a manner that ensures confidentiality. Finally, the bill mandates that packers report to USDA the number of cattle scheduled to be delivered for slaughter each day for the next 14 days and require USDA to report this information daily. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and American Farm Bureau all responded favorably to the bill. NCBA welcomed a discussion on market transparency, stating, “We have worked and will continue to work alongside our affiliates, Congress, and USDA toward regionally robust negotiated trade.”

Farm groups welcome Cattle Market Transparency Act

February's Ag Economy Barometer reading of 165 changed little compared to January when the index stood at 167. Announced Tuesday, producers continue to report strong current conditions on their farms as February's Current Conditions Index value of 200 is near its all-time high. 

Continuing a trend that got underway last fall, however, the Index of Future Expectations drifted lower to 148, three points below its January reading. February marked the third time in the last four months that the Future Expectations Index declined, leaving it 20 percent below its October peak. 

Ongoing strength in ag commodity prices and farm income continue to support producers' perspective on current conditions. Concerns about possible policy changes affecting agriculture and eroding confidence in future growth in ag trade continue to weigh on producers' future expectations. 

Producers also indicated they expect to see alternative protein sources increase market share in the years ahead. If the market share becomes significant, they think it’s likely to reduce aggregate farm income.

February's Ag Economy Barometer reading of 165 changed little compared to January when the index stood at 167. Announced Tuesday, producers continue to report strong current conditions on their farms as February's Current Conditions Index value of 200 is near its all-time high. Continuing a trend that got underway last fall, however, the Index of Future Expectations drifted lower to 148, three points below its January reading. February marked the third time in the last four months that the Future Expectations Index declined, leaving it 20 percent below its October peak. Ongoing strength in ag commodity prices and farm income continue to support producers' perspective on current conditions. Concerns about possible policy changes affecting agriculture and eroding confidence in future growth in ag trade continue to weigh on producers' future expectations. Producers also indicated they expect to see alternative protein sources increase market share in the years ahead. If the market share becomes significant, they think it’s likely to reduce aggregate farm income.

February Ag Economy Barometer results

Despite pandemic disruptions, consumer demand for beef at home and around the globe remained strong in 2020. CattleFax says that trend will continue in 2021 and beyond, especially as foodservice operations begin to fully reopen. 

The data was presented during the recent Cattle Industry Convention Winter Reboot. The strong demand, combined with expected higher cattle prices, signal an optimistic future for the beef industry. 

According to CattleFax CEO Randy Blach, cattle numbers will continue to contract in 2021, and producers will gain leverage on packers and retailers, and margin distribution will be more equitable. Packing capacity is expected to increase slowly with the addition of more small-scale plants, and U.S. meat exports will continue to grow. 

Overall, profitability is expected to improve significantly for cow/calf producers. In 2020, total meat sales volume at retail was up ten percent and total dollar sales at retail up 18 percent, with beef's share of the increase in spending accounting for 45 percent or $5.7 billion.

Despite pandemic disruptions, consumer demand for beef at home and around the globe remained strong in 2020. CattleFax says that trend will continue in 2021 and beyond, especially as foodservice operations begin to fully reopen. The data was presented during the recent Cattle Industry Convention Winter Reboot. The strong demand, combined with expected higher cattle prices, signal an optimistic future for the beef industry. According to CattleFax CEO Randy Blach, cattle numbers will continue to contract in 2021, and producers will gain leverage on packers and retailers, and margin distribution will be more equitable. Packing capacity is expected to increase slowly with the addition of more small-scale plants, and U.S. meat exports will continue to grow. Overall, profitability is expected to improve significantly for cow/calf producers. In 2020, total meat sales volume at retail was up ten percent and total dollar sales at retail up 18 percent, with beef's share of the increase in spending accounting for 45 percent or $5.7 billion.

Optimism in beef industry fueled by strong demand

Dairy Management Inc. and the U.S. Dairy Export Council announced the promotion of Krysta Harden from chief operating officer to President and CEO. Harden was named COO in May 2020. 

During that time, she continued her role as executive vice-president of global environmental strategy for DMI, which manages the national dairy checkoff for 34,000 dairy farmers. Harden succeeds former USDEC President and CEO Tom Vilsack, who has been confirmed as secretary of agriculture in the Biden administration. 

Harden becomes the third president and CEO to lead USDEC since its founding by DMI in 1995 and is its first female chief executive. Before joining DMI, Harden served as Chief Sustainability Officer with Corteva and DuPont. 

Harden also spent seven years working with Vilsack at USDA. Harden states she will continue the aggressive approach established by Vilsack at the organization “engaging USDEC member companies, exporters, and dairy producers in export market development efforts.”

Dairy Management Inc. and the U.S. Dairy Export Council announced the promotion of Krysta Harden from chief operating officer to President and CEO. Harden was named COO in May 2020. During that time, she continued her role as executive vice-president of global environmental strategy for DMI, which manages the national dairy checkoff for 34,000 dairy farmers. Harden succeeds former USDEC President and CEO Tom Vilsack, who has been confirmed as secretary of agriculture in the Biden administration. Harden becomes the third president and CEO to lead USDEC since its founding by DMI in 1995 and is its first female chief executive. Before joining DMI, Harden served as Chief Sustainability Officer with Corteva and DuPont. Harden also spent seven years working with Vilsack at USDA. Harden states she will continue the aggressive approach established by Vilsack at the organization “engaging USDEC member companies, exporters, and dairy producers in export market development efforts.”

Krysta Harden promoted to President/CEO of U.S. Dairy Export Council

The agri-food-tech sector saw a record investment total in 2020. AgFunder reports total dollars committed to agri-food-tech ventures in 2020 are expected to hit $30.5 billion, representing a 34.5 percent increase over 2019 investments. 

The sector's stellar performance is attributable to an increasing number of big funding rounds, signifying a maturing sector with a few clear outliers. Michigan-based cold storage and warehousing venture Lineage Logistics' $1.6 billion funding round accounted for five percent of the projected investment total. 

Plant-based meat company Impossible Foods raised two rounds totaling $700 million, leading a long and increasingly tech-diverse roster of investor-backed alternative protein companies. 

There were also a lot of small rounds, which AgFunder says speaks to investor confidence in placing their bets on the agri-food-tech sector at large, and on the next generation of early-stage innovations and technologies. Early-stage investments grew ten percent year-over-year in 2020, as the number of deals grew 15 percent.

The agri-food-tech sector saw a record investment total in 2020. AgFunder reports total dollars committed to agri-food-tech ventures in 2020 are expected to hit $30.5 billion, representing a 34.5 percent increase over 2019 investments. The sector's stellar performance is attributable to an increasing number of big funding rounds, signifying a maturing sector with a few clear outliers. Michigan-based cold storage and warehousing venture Lineage Logistics' $1.6 billion funding round accounted for five percent of the projected investment total. Plant-based meat company Impossible Foods raised two rounds totaling $700 million, leading a long and increasingly tech-diverse roster of investor-backed alternative protein companies. There were also a lot of small rounds, which AgFunder says speaks to investor confidence in placing their bets on the agri-food-tech sector at large, and on the next generation of early-stage innovations and technologies. Early-stage investments grew ten percent year-over-year in 2020, as the number of deals grew 15 percent.

2020 Agritech, food investments, sets record

The North American Meat Institute recently asked the Supreme Court to review an earlier ruling in a challenge of California's Proposition 12: The Farm Animal Confinement Initiative. 

The Meat Institute petition specifically asks the Supreme Court to review a U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruling in a challenge by the organization. The Meat Institute opposes the law, claiming it is unconstitutional and will hurt the nation's food value chain by significantly increasing costs for producers and consumers. 

Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts states, "If this unconstitutional law is allowed to stand, California will dictate farming practices across the nation."

 The question presented in the case is whether the U.S. Constitution permits California to extend its police power beyond its territorial borders by banning pork and veal products sold into California unless out-of-state farmers restructure their facilities to meet animal-confinement standards dictated by California.

The North American Meat Institute recently asked the Supreme Court to review an earlier ruling in a challenge of California's Proposition 12: The Farm Animal Confinement Initiative. The Meat Institute petition specifically asks the Supreme Court to review a U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruling in a challenge by the organization. The Meat Institute opposes the law, claiming it is unconstitutional and will hurt the nation's food value chain by significantly increasing costs for producers and consumers. Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts states, "If this unconstitutional law is allowed to stand, California will dictate farming practices across the nation." The question presented in the case is whether the U.S. Constitution permits California to extend its police power beyond its territorial borders by banning pork and veal products sold into California unless out-of-state farmers restructure their facilities to meet animal-confinement standards dictated by California.

Meat Institute seeks supreme court review in case against California’s Prop 12

The Department of Agriculture Monday announce two senior appointments. USDA announced the appointment of Dr. Dewayne Goldmon as senior advisor for racial equity to the Secretary of Agriculture. 

Goldmon has served for the past year as Executive Director of the National Black Growers Council, a Washington, D.C.-based organization that advocates to improve the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of Black row crop farmers. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says that with Goldmon, “we will build a USDA that represents and serves all Americans.” USDA also announced the appointment of Andy Green as senior advisor for fair and competitive Markets. 

Most recently, Green served as a Senior Fellow for Economic Policy at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. Referring to Green’s future with USDA, Vilsack says, “We must create a more level playing field for small and medium producers and a more balanced, equitable economy for everyone working in food and agriculture.”

The Department of Agriculture Monday announce two senior appointments. USDA announced the appointment of Dr. Dewayne Goldmon as senior advisor for racial equity to the Secretary of Agriculture. Goldmon has served for the past year as Executive Director of the National Black Growers Council, a Washington, D.C.-based organization that advocates to improve the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of Black row crop farmers. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says that with Goldmon, “we will build a USDA that represents and serves all Americans.” USDA also announced the appointment of Andy Green as senior advisor for fair and competitive Markets. Most recently, Green served as a Senior Fellow for Economic Policy at the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C. Referring to Green’s future with USDA, Vilsack says, “We must create a more level playing field for small and medium producers and a more balanced, equitable economy for everyone working in food and agriculture.”

USDA announces additional staff appointments

Culver’s created the “Thank You Farmers Project” back in 2013 and has raised a lot of money since then. The donation total recently hit $3 million, and the funds go to support agricultural education. The Thank you Farmers Project is about more than showing appreciation for the hard work of today’s farmers. 

It’s also about ensuring America has enough food to serve its growing population by supporting agricultural education efforts that encourage smart farming. One way that Culver’s does this is by supporting FFA. “Today’s FFA members are tomorrow’s ag leaders,” says Allison Wedig,

 Culver’s marketing specialist and a former Wisconsin FFA state president. “Many of these students will go on to dedicate their careers to ensuring a sustainable future food supply, so we want to support them and give them a forum to share their voices and passions.” 

One of the many ways that Culver’s supports FFA is through the annual FFA Essay Contest that just launched on February 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;As in the past six years of the contest, three winners will receive funds for their FFA chapters, including $7,500 for first place, $5,000 for second place, and $2,500 for third. Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.culvers.com/essaycontest">www.culvers.com/essaycontest</a>&nbsp;for more information. The deadline is April 19.

Culver’s created the “Thank You Farmers Project” back in 2013 and has raised a lot of money since then. The donation total recently hit $3 million, and the funds go to support agricultural education. The Thank you Farmers Project is about more than showing appreciation for the hard work of today’s farmers. It’s also about ensuring America has enough food to serve its growing population by supporting agricultural education efforts that encourage smart farming. One way that Culver’s does this is by supporting FFA. “Today’s FFA members are tomorrow’s ag leaders,” says Allison Wedig, Culver’s marketing specialist and a former Wisconsin FFA state president. “Many of these students will go on to dedicate their careers to ensuring a sustainable future food supply, so we want to support them and give them a forum to share their voices and passions.” One of the many ways that Culver’s supports FFA is through the annual FFA Essay Contest that just launched on February 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;As in the past six years of the contest, three winners will receive funds for their FFA chapters, including $7,500 for first place, $5,000 for second place, and $2,500 for third. Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.culvers.com/essaycontest">www.culvers.com/essaycontest</a>&nbsp;for more information. The deadline is April 19.

“Thank You Farmers” Project donations reach $3 million

Katherine Tai, President Biden’s nominee for U.S. Trade Representative, testified at a confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee last week. Politico says she addressed concerns that the Biden Administration “will stand still” on trade policy. 

Senators in both parties pushed Tai on the administration’s pledge that it wouldn’t negotiate new trade deals until it gets the domestic economic stimulus package it wants from Congress. The committee’s Ranking Member Mike Crapo of Idaho told Tai, “You must make the president understand that trade is a domestic priority.”

 The USTR nominee says she’ll stay busy on trade policy but didn’t stake out concrete positions on the major questions facing the agency. A potential trade deal with the United Kingdom is one of those questions, as a deal must get signed by July 1 to qualify for fast-track treatment under the trade promotion authority. 

To meet that deadline, the USTR would need to formally notify Congress by April 1 of its intent to sign a pact. “If I’m confirmed, I’ll need to review the progress and conversations so far during the talks with the U.K.,” she said to the committee members. 

Tai was also noncommittal about restarting negotiations on a new trade deal in the Asia-Pacific after former President Trump pulled the country out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Katherine Tai, President Biden’s nominee for U.S. Trade Representative, testified at a confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee last week. Politico says she addressed concerns that the Biden Administration “will stand still” on trade policy. Senators in both parties pushed Tai on the administration’s pledge that it wouldn’t negotiate new trade deals until it gets the domestic economic stimulus package it wants from Congress. The committee’s Ranking Member Mike Crapo of Idaho told Tai, “You must make the president understand that trade is a domestic priority.” The USTR nominee says she’ll stay busy on trade policy but didn’t stake out concrete positions on the major questions facing the agency. A potential trade deal with the United Kingdom is one of those questions, as a deal must get signed by July 1 to qualify for fast-track treatment under the trade promotion authority. To meet that deadline, the USTR would need to formally notify Congress by April 1 of its intent to sign a pact. “If I’m confirmed, I’ll need to review the progress and conversations so far during the talks with the U.K.,” she said to the committee members. Tai was also noncommittal about restarting negotiations on a new trade deal in the Asia-Pacific after former President Trump pulled the country out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

USTR nominee testifies before Senate Finance Committee

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack says China is making good on its promises in the phase one trade deal it signed with the U.S. last year. CNBC says Vilsack points out the agreement allows market conditions to determine how much it has to buy from American farmers. 

COVID-19 qualifies as a market condition that would legitimately impact how much China has to buy under the agreement. In the first year of the deal, China imported $100 billion of the U.S. goods agreed to in the deal; that’s 58 percent of the $173.1 billion-goal set in 2020. 

However, the secretary says he’s upbeat on Chinese progress. “I think they still have a few days to be able to meet the phase one, year one goal,” Vilsack says. “Whether they meet the exact amount, I think, is in question because of the pandemic.” 

The secretary will tackle a lot of challenges in the world of U.S. ag, including the COVID-19-era rise in hunger, as well as a sharp drop in restaurant demand for food products.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack says China is making good on its promises in the phase one trade deal it signed with the U.S. last year. CNBC says Vilsack points out the agreement allows market conditions to determine how much it has to buy from American farmers. COVID-19 qualifies as a market condition that would legitimately impact how much China has to buy under the agreement. In the first year of the deal, China imported $100 billion of the U.S. goods agreed to in the deal; that’s 58 percent of the $173.1 billion-goal set in 2020. However, the secretary says he’s upbeat on Chinese progress. “I think they still have a few days to be able to meet the phase one, year one goal,” Vilsack says. “Whether they meet the exact amount, I think, is in question because of the pandemic.” The secretary will tackle a lot of challenges in the world of U.S. ag, including the COVID-19-era rise in hunger, as well as a sharp drop in restaurant demand for food products.

Vilsack: China living up to trade deal

The Crop Insurance Coalition urges lawmakers to protect crop insurance from budget cuts in the upcoming fiscal year 2022 budget process. The coalition of 58 partners recently sent a letter to key lawmakers detailing the request. 

Letters were also sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The coalition says farmers need access to a strong and secure federal crop insurance program. 

The letters say the last several years have brought an onslaught of uncertainty for America's farmers and ranchers - from weather extremes to the disruptions of international markets to COVID-19 and its unique challenges. 

Given the challenges rural America faces and the nature of crop insurance, the coalition says cuts to the program should be avoided. Referring to ad hoc programs supporting farmers over the last three years, the letter states, "it would only serve to undercut these efforts to propose harmful changes to a crop insurance program."

The Crop Insurance Coalition urges lawmakers to protect crop insurance from budget cuts in the upcoming fiscal year 2022 budget process. The coalition of 58 partners recently sent a letter to key lawmakers detailing the request. Letters were also sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The coalition says farmers need access to a strong and secure federal crop insurance program. The letters say the last several years have brought an onslaught of uncertainty for America's farmers and ranchers - from weather extremes to the disruptions of international markets to COVID-19 and its unique challenges. Given the challenges rural America faces and the nature of crop insurance, the coalition says cuts to the program should be avoided. Referring to ad hoc programs supporting farmers over the last three years, the letter states, "it would only serve to undercut these efforts to propose harmful changes to a crop insurance program."

Coalition urges lawmakers to protect crop insurance

The Department of Agriculture Thursday extended the deadline to apply for the latest round of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told reporters the sign-up period will be extended, allowing producers more time to apply. 

The deadline will extend 30 days after USDA completes a review of the program. As part of the Biden administration review of federal programs, USDA suspended the processing and payments under the program. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation requested the deadline extension in a letter to Vilsack earlier in the week. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall stated, “Recent severe weather and the suspension of CFAP payments led to challenges and confusion surrounding the application process.” 

Vilsack says USDA is in the process of reviewing the program. Vilsack says, “We want to make sure that as we implement this next level of support that we do so, within the resources provided, do it in an equitable way, and try to respond to some of the legitimate concerns."

The Department of Agriculture Thursday extended the deadline to apply for the latest round of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told reporters the sign-up period will be extended, allowing producers more time to apply. The deadline will extend 30 days after USDA completes a review of the program. As part of the Biden administration review of federal programs, USDA suspended the processing and payments under the program. The American Farm Bureau Federation requested the deadline extension in a letter to Vilsack earlier in the week. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall stated, “Recent severe weather and the suspension of CFAP payments led to challenges and confusion surrounding the application process.” Vilsack says USDA is in the process of reviewing the program. Vilsack says, “We want to make sure that as we implement this next level of support that we do so, within the resources provided, do it in an equitable way, and try to respond to some of the legitimate concerns."

USDA extends CFAP application deadline

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke with the media Thursday, following this week's Senate vote to confirm his nomination. Vilsack was sworn in Wednesday evening by Vice President Kamala Harris. He returns to the Department of Agriculture after serving eight years at the same post during the Obama administration. 

Vilsack spoke as the House Agriculture Committee explored U.S. agriculture's role in climate change solutions. Much of the climate conversation regarding agriculture focuses on establishing a climate bank or market, paying farmers for climate-smart practices. 

Vilsack says President Joe Biden has a vision of a net-zero emission U.S. agriculture, adding, "I think it has the capacity to fundamentally change U.S. agriculture in a positive way and create new revenue sources." 

However, he says that work won’t happen in a single administration, but added “the work has to begin.” Vilsack planned to meet with the USDA climate team Friday. Vilsack says USDA’s role will be to provide technical guidance to lawmakers and the administration in crafting climate policies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607702718457.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa</figcaption>
 </figure>Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke with the media Thursday, following this week's Senate vote to confirm his nomination. Vilsack was sworn in Wednesday evening by Vice President Kamala Harris. He returns to the Department of Agriculture after serving eight years at the same post during the Obama administration. Vilsack spoke as the House Agriculture Committee explored U.S. agriculture's role in climate change solutions. Much of the climate conversation regarding agriculture focuses on establishing a climate bank or market, paying farmers for climate-smart practices. Vilsack says President Joe Biden has a vision of a net-zero emission U.S. agriculture, adding, "I think it has the capacity to fundamentally change U.S. agriculture in a positive way and create new revenue sources." However, he says that work won’t happen in a single administration, but added “the work has to begin.” Vilsack planned to meet with the USDA climate team Friday. Vilsack says USDA’s role will be to provide technical guidance to lawmakers and the administration in crafting climate policies.

Vilsack starts second tenure at USDA, climate work begins

Missouri lawmakers are again seeking to block a multi-state high voltage transmission line for wind energy. The St. Louis Post Dispatch reports a new measure in the Missouri legislature would require Invenergy, the Grain Belt Express future transmission line owner, to receive approval from individual counties. 

The move is one of many to block the project, as lawmakers seek to stop a private company from using eminent domain to take land for the project. The Grain Belt Express would take wind energy from Kansas through Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. 

The Missouri Supreme Court earlier ruled the project be granted public utility status because the $2.3 billion project is in the public’s interest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The transmission line in Missouri is expected to cross the property of 570 landowners, stretching more than 200 miles across the northern sector of the state. 

Invenergy says the project will play a major role in economic recovery in the Midwest by supporting jobs, adding broadband infrastructure, community investment and energy savings.

Missouri lawmakers are again seeking to block a multi-state high voltage transmission line for wind energy. The St. Louis Post Dispatch reports a new measure in the Missouri legislature would require Invenergy, the Grain Belt Express future transmission line owner, to receive approval from individual counties. The move is one of many to block the project, as lawmakers seek to stop a private company from using eminent domain to take land for the project. The Grain Belt Express would take wind energy from Kansas through Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. The Missouri Supreme Court earlier ruled the project be granted public utility status because the $2.3 billion project is in the public’s interest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The transmission line in Missouri is expected to cross the property of 570 landowners, stretching more than 200 miles across the northern sector of the state. Invenergy says the project will play a major role in economic recovery in the Midwest by supporting jobs, adding broadband infrastructure, community investment and energy savings.

Missouri lawmakers seek to block multi-state transmission line

Legislation introduced this week in the Senate would provide farmers and ranchers with additional flexibility to alleviate feed shortages in years with widespread excessive moisture, flooding or drought. 

The Feed Emergency Enhancement During Disasters with Cover Crops Act would create an emergency waiver authority for the Secretary of Agriculture to allow for haying, grazing or chopping of a cover crop on prevented plant acres before November 1, in the event of a feed shortage due to extreme weather. 

Senators Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, and John Hoeven, A North Dakota Republican, introduced the legislation. The bill states that under the waiver, producers would not see a reduction of their crop insurance indemnity. The legislation also directs the Agriculture Secretary to establish regional haying and grazing dates for each crop year. 

The current date, November 1, is set on a nationwide basis and disadvantages producers in the upper Midwest. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced companion legislation in the House.

Legislation introduced this week in the Senate would provide farmers and ranchers with additional flexibility to alleviate feed shortages in years with widespread excessive moisture, flooding or drought. The Feed Emergency Enhancement During Disasters with Cover Crops Act would create an emergency waiver authority for the Secretary of Agriculture to allow for haying, grazing or chopping of a cover crop on prevented plant acres before November 1, in the event of a feed shortage due to extreme weather. Senators Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, and John Hoeven, A North Dakota Republican, introduced the legislation. The bill states that under the waiver, producers would not see a reduction of their crop insurance indemnity. The legislation also directs the Agriculture Secretary to establish regional haying and grazing dates for each crop year. The current date, November 1, is set on a nationwide basis and disadvantages producers in the upper Midwest. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced companion legislation in the House.

Lawmakers introduce emergency feed bill

Pilgrim's Pride Corporation this week pleaded guilty to price-fixing allegations. The Department of Justice announced the plea, and a sentence to pay approximately $107 million in criminal fines. 

According to the plea agreement entered in the U.S. District Court in Denver, from as early as 2012 and continuing at least into 2017, Pilgrim's participated in a conspiracy to suppress and eliminate competition for sales of broiler chicken products in the U.S. that affected at least $361 million in Pilgrim's sales of broiler chicken products. 

Pilgrim's is the first company to plead guilty for its role in a conspiracy to fix prices and rig bids for broiler chicken products. Broiler chickens are chickens raised for human consumption and sold to grocers and restaurants. 

Ten executives and employees at major broiler chicken producers have also previously been charged. The case results from an ongoing federal antitrust investigation into price-fixing, bid-rigging, and other anticompetitive conduct in the broiler chicken industry.

Pilgrim's Pride Corporation this week pleaded guilty to price-fixing allegations. The Department of Justice announced the plea, and a sentence to pay approximately $107 million in criminal fines. According to the plea agreement entered in the U.S. District Court in Denver, from as early as 2012 and continuing at least into 2017, Pilgrim's participated in a conspiracy to suppress and eliminate competition for sales of broiler chicken products in the U.S. that affected at least $361 million in Pilgrim's sales of broiler chicken products. Pilgrim's is the first company to plead guilty for its role in a conspiracy to fix prices and rig bids for broiler chicken products. Broiler chickens are chickens raised for human consumption and sold to grocers and restaurants. Ten executives and employees at major broiler chicken producers have also previously been charged. The case results from an ongoing federal antitrust investigation into price-fixing, bid-rigging, and other anticompetitive conduct in the broiler chicken industry.

Pilgrims Pride pleads guilty to price fixing

The Agriculture Energy Coalition recently announced its 2021 policy recommendations. Those priorities include providing the Department of Agriculture Rural Energy for American program at least $2.5 billion over ten years, including a financial infusion upfront and Increase to 90 percent REAP Loan Guarantee for any loan amount under $1 million. 

They also seek to extend clean energy tax credits, provide USDA with additional rural development funding and authorize and modernize the Biorefinery Assistance, Renewable Chemical and Biobased Product Manufacturing Program. 

The recommendations also include modernizing the Advanced Biofuel Payment Program, increase funding for the BioPreferred program, and make sustainable aviation fuels a priority for USDA. The coalition says USDA Should prioritize the role of biomass in forest management and wildfire risk reduction. 

Finally, the group asks USDA to consider using the Commodity Credit Corporation to support low carbon renewable energy innovation. The Agriculture Energy Coalition represents a diverse set of interests in agriculture and renewable energy, such as farmers, advanced biofuel and bio-based manufacturers, clean-tech, rural lenders, and environmental NGOs.

The Agriculture Energy Coalition recently announced its 2021 policy recommendations. Those priorities include providing the Department of Agriculture Rural Energy for American program at least $2.5 billion over ten years, including a financial infusion upfront and Increase to 90 percent REAP Loan Guarantee for any loan amount under $1 million. They also seek to extend clean energy tax credits, provide USDA with additional rural development funding and authorize and modernize the Biorefinery Assistance, Renewable Chemical and Biobased Product Manufacturing Program. The recommendations also include modernizing the Advanced Biofuel Payment Program, increase funding for the BioPreferred program, and make sustainable aviation fuels a priority for USDA. The coalition says USDA Should prioritize the role of biomass in forest management and wildfire risk reduction. Finally, the group asks USDA to consider using the Commodity Credit Corporation to support low carbon renewable energy innovation. The Agriculture Energy Coalition represents a diverse set of interests in agriculture and renewable energy, such as farmers, advanced biofuel and bio-based manufacturers, clean-tech, rural lenders, and environmental NGOs.

Ag Energy Coalition releases 2021 policy recommendations

Farm and biofuel groups welcome the recent Environmental Protection Agency announcement supporting the Tenth Circuit Court’s January 2020 decision regarding small refinery waivers. 

EPA states that it “agrees with the court that the exemption was intended to operate as a temporary measure and, consistent with that Congressional purpose, the plain meaning of the word ‘extension’ refers to continuing the status of an exemption that is already in existence.” 

The four petitioners in the case—the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Coalition for Ethanol and National Farmers Union, welcomed the announcement in a statement. The groups say, “This announcement marks a major step forward by the Biden administration to restore the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard.” 

Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court granted a request from two refiners to review the Tenth Circuit case, even though EPA did not ask the high court to examine the ruling. Arguments before the Supreme Court are expected in the spring.

Farm and biofuel groups welcome the recent Environmental Protection Agency announcement supporting the Tenth Circuit Court’s January 2020 decision regarding small refinery waivers. EPA states that it “agrees with the court that the exemption was intended to operate as a temporary measure and, consistent with that Congressional purpose, the plain meaning of the word ‘extension’ refers to continuing the status of an exemption that is already in existence.” The four petitioners in the case—the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Coalition for Ethanol and National Farmers Union, welcomed the announcement in a statement. The groups say, “This announcement marks a major step forward by the Biden administration to restore the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard.” Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court granted a request from two refiners to review the Tenth Circuit case, even though EPA did not ask the high court to examine the ruling. Arguments before the Supreme Court are expected in the spring.

Farm groups embrace new EPA position on SREs

The Senate Tuesday overwhelming approved the nomination of Tom Vilsack as Agriculture Secretary. The Senate voted 92 to seven to approve the nomination via a roll call vote, sending Vilsack back to the Department of Agriculture's top position. 

Vilsack returns to the agency after serving as Agriculture Secretary during the Obama administration. The Senate allowed for 20 minutes of debate, but opted for short statements from Senate Agriculture Committee leadership before calling for the vote. 

Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, “After an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, Secretary Vilsack can now get to work.” 

Noting Vilsack is “uniquely qualified” to head up the USDA, having served there previously, National Association of Wheat Growers CEO Chandley Goule stated Vilsack "has an exceptional understanding of agricultural and rural issues."&nbsp;&nbsp;American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, "His strong track record of leadership and previous experience at USDA will serve rural America well.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607621299128.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Radio Iowa</figcaption>
 </figure>The Senate Tuesday overwhelming approved the nomination of Tom Vilsack as Agriculture Secretary. The Senate voted 92 to seven to approve the nomination via a roll call vote, sending Vilsack back to the Department of Agriculture's top position. Vilsack returns to the agency after serving as Agriculture Secretary during the Obama administration. The Senate allowed for 20 minutes of debate, but opted for short statements from Senate Agriculture Committee leadership before calling for the vote. Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, “After an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, Secretary Vilsack can now get to work.” Noting Vilsack is “uniquely qualified” to head up the USDA, having served there previously, National Association of Wheat Growers CEO Chandley Goule stated Vilsack "has an exceptional understanding of agricultural and rural issues."&nbsp;&nbsp;American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, "His strong track record of leadership and previous experience at USDA will serve rural America well.”