Farmers have until March 15, 2021, to enroll in the Agriculture Risk Coverage, or Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2021 crop year. The enrollment period opened this week for the risk management programs, known as ARC and PLC. 

The key Department of Agriculture safety-net programs help producers weather fluctuations in either revenue or price for certain crops. USDA says more than $5 billion in payments are in the process of going out to producers who signed up for the 2019 crop year. 

ARC provides income support payments on historical base acres when actual crop revenue declines below a specified guaranteed level. PLC provides income support payments on historical base acres when the effective price for a covered commodity falls below its reference price. 

For more information on ARC and PLC, including two online decision tools that assist producers in making enrollment and election decisions specific to their operations, visit fsa.usda.gov, or contact your local USDA service center.

Farmers have until March 15, 2021, to enroll in the Agriculture Risk Coverage, or Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2021 crop year. The enrollment period opened this week for the risk management programs, known as ARC and PLC. The key Department of Agriculture safety-net programs help producers weather fluctuations in either revenue or price for certain crops. USDA says more than $5 billion in payments are in the process of going out to producers who signed up for the 2019 crop year. ARC provides income support payments on historical base acres when actual crop revenue declines below a specified guaranteed level. PLC provides income support payments on historical base acres when the effective price for a covered commodity falls below its reference price. For more information on ARC and PLC, including two online decision tools that assist producers in making enrollment and election decisions specific to their operations, visit fsa.usda.gov, or contact your local USDA service center.

Enrollment begins for 2021 ARC, PLC

Private exporters report more large sales of U.S. corn to China. The Department of Agriculture Wednesday reported two large export sales, one of 420,000 metric tons and another totaling 264,000 metric tons for the new 2020-21 crop year. 

China needs to continue increased corn purchases to reach the lofty targets included in the Phase One agreement with the United States. However, China is still behind pace to do so this year. 

Meanwhile, more fears of corn shortages in China are developing. Corn futures hit a new record-high this week of 2,595 yuan, valued at $385.14 per metric ton. 

China's corn output is expected to fall this year after typhoons flattened crops in some parts of the country, further stoking supply concerns after Beijing ran down its massive state stockpiles over the last several years, according to Reuters. A market expert says, “The stockpile has been sold out,” adding, “The market strongly expects supply shortages.”

Private exporters report more large sales of U.S. corn to China. The Department of Agriculture Wednesday reported two large export sales, one of 420,000 metric tons and another totaling 264,000 metric tons for the new 2020-21 crop year. China needs to continue increased corn purchases to reach the lofty targets included in the Phase One agreement with the United States. However, China is still behind pace to do so this year. Meanwhile, more fears of corn shortages in China are developing. Corn futures hit a new record-high this week of 2,595 yuan, valued at $385.14 per metric ton. China's corn output is expected to fall this year after typhoons flattened crops in some parts of the country, further stoking supply concerns after Beijing ran down its massive state stockpiles over the last several years, according to Reuters. A market expert says, “The stockpile has been sold out,” adding, “The market strongly expects supply shortages.”

China purchases more U.S. corn as fears of shortages increase

A United Nations report confirms how extreme weather events have come to dominate the disaster landscape in the 21st century. Between 2000 and 2019, there were more than 7,300 major recorded disaster events claiming 1.23 million lives, affecting 4.2 billion people, resulting in approximately $2.97 trillion in global economic losses. 

This is a sharp increase over the previous twenty years. Between 1980 and 1999, 4,200 disasters were linked to natural hazards worldwide. 

UN Secretary-General António Guterres responded, “COVID-19 has shown us that systemic risk requires international cooperation,” adding good disaster risk governance means acting on science and evidence. 

Much of the difference is explained by a rise in climate-related disasters, including extreme weather events. The last twenty years have seen the number of major floods more than double, to more than 3,200, while the incidence of storms grew from 1,400 to just over 2,000. 

The report "The Human Cost of Disasters 2000-2019" also records major increases in other categories, including drought, wildfires and extreme temperature events.

A United Nations report confirms how extreme weather events have come to dominate the disaster landscape in the 21st century. Between 2000 and 2019, there were more than 7,300 major recorded disaster events claiming 1.23 million lives, affecting 4.2 billion people, resulting in approximately $2.97 trillion in global economic losses. This is a sharp increase over the previous twenty years. Between 1980 and 1999, 4,200 disasters were linked to natural hazards worldwide. UN Secretary-General António Guterres responded, “COVID-19 has shown us that systemic risk requires international cooperation,” adding good disaster risk governance means acting on science and evidence. Much of the difference is explained by a rise in climate-related disasters, including extreme weather events. The last twenty years have seen the number of major floods more than double, to more than 3,200, while the incidence of storms grew from 1,400 to just over 2,000. The report "The Human Cost of Disasters 2000-2019" also records major increases in other categories, including drought, wildfires and extreme temperature events.

UN report: huge rise in climate disasters

The National FFA Organization and DEKALB brand corn will unite on October 18 at the NASCAR race in Kansas. The partnership includes the unveiling of the DEKALB FFA Ford Mustang driven by Clint Bowyer, with dual historical wings for both the FFA emblem and DEKALB. 

FFA and DEKALB are focused on improving the future of agriculture, and together will offer students the opportunity to qualify for the Winning Has Roots scholarship. 

The scholarship will help one qualified student fund their continued education. The scholarship amount will be determined by the number of laps Bowyer completes at the Hollywood Casino 400. A base amount of $6,400 is to be awarded to the recipient, with an increase of $14 for every lap Bowyer completes. 

If all 267 laps are completed, the scholarship will increase to $10,138. If Bowyer wins the race, the scholarship will be increased to $14,000. Final scholarship amount, details and next steps will be announced following the October 18 race.

The National FFA Organization and DEKALB brand corn will unite on October 18 at the NASCAR race in Kansas. The partnership includes the unveiling of the DEKALB FFA Ford Mustang driven by Clint Bowyer, with dual historical wings for both the FFA emblem and DEKALB. FFA and DEKALB are focused on improving the future of agriculture, and together will offer students the opportunity to qualify for the Winning Has Roots scholarship. The scholarship will help one qualified student fund their continued education. The scholarship amount will be determined by the number of laps Bowyer completes at the Hollywood Casino 400. A base amount of $6,400 is to be awarded to the recipient, with an increase of $14 for every lap Bowyer completes. If all 267 laps are completed, the scholarship will increase to $10,138. If Bowyer wins the race, the scholarship will be increased to $14,000. Final scholarship amount, details and next steps will be announced following the October 18 race.

National FFA, DEKALB partner on winning has roots scholarship

High Grade Hemp Seed this week introduced a Farm Partner Program seeking to make consistent, compliant production a reality for the U.S. hemp market. 

Co-created by Center Pivot Group, the new Farm Partner Program will provide an infrastructure for hemp producers that guarantees a price for hemp flower at harvest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The harvested hemp must be grown in accordance with guidelines laid out in the partnership agreement. 

The program will roll out immediately in the U.S., primarily in California, Colorado, Minnesota., New York, Oregon, and Texas, before looking towards international markets.&nbsp; &nbsp;Initially, the partnership will be open to experienced hemp farmers who purchase High Grade Hemp Seed genetics. 

Contracts for biomass will be based on the trading value of hemp seed at purchase, with a revenue split after harvest between High Grade Hemp Seed and the farmer. According to Global Market Insights, the worldwide market for CBD is expected to reach $89 billion by 2026.

High Grade Hemp Seed this week introduced a Farm Partner Program seeking to make consistent, compliant production a reality for the U.S. hemp market. Co-created by Center Pivot Group, the new Farm Partner Program will provide an infrastructure for hemp producers that guarantees a price for hemp flower at harvest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The harvested hemp must be grown in accordance with guidelines laid out in the partnership agreement. The program will roll out immediately in the U.S., primarily in California, Colorado, Minnesota., New York, Oregon, and Texas, before looking towards international markets.&nbsp; &nbsp;Initially, the partnership will be open to experienced hemp farmers who purchase High Grade Hemp Seed genetics. Contracts for biomass will be based on the trading value of hemp seed at purchase, with a revenue split after harvest between High Grade Hemp Seed and the farmer. According to Global Market Insights, the worldwide market for CBD is expected to reach $89 billion by 2026.

New program seeks to close gaps in US Hemp supply chain

COVID-19 is having a huge impact on farmers' purchasing practices, according to new research by leading global consultancy, McKinsey &amp; Company. 

The survey of financial decision-makers at farms across Europe reveals that 95 percent of farms are considering adjusting purchasing behavior to minimize physical interactions in response to the pandemic. 

Digital purchasing may provide the answer, with McKinsey uncovering an increase in both farmers' desire to use digital channels to make product-purchase decisions, up from 51 percent in 2019 to 87 percent post-COVID-19, and their desire to use digital channels to make actual purchases reaching 69 percent. 

However, researchers say only 22 percent of farmers surveyed have made an online purchase over the past 12 months as of May. As attitudes shift in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, companies in the agriculture industry have an opportunity to accelerate their online presence, work out omnichannel strategies, and perhaps even change their business models to better meet farmers' needs.

COVID-19 is having a huge impact on farmers' purchasing practices, according to new research by leading global consultancy, McKinsey &amp; Company. The survey of financial decision-makers at farms across Europe reveals that 95 percent of farms are considering adjusting purchasing behavior to minimize physical interactions in response to the pandemic. Digital purchasing may provide the answer, with McKinsey uncovering an increase in both farmers' desire to use digital channels to make product-purchase decisions, up from 51 percent in 2019 to 87 percent post-COVID-19, and their desire to use digital channels to make actual purchases reaching 69 percent. However, researchers say only 22 percent of farmers surveyed have made an online purchase over the past 12 months as of May. As attitudes shift in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, companies in the agriculture industry have an opportunity to accelerate their online presence, work out omnichannel strategies, and perhaps even change their business models to better meet farmers' needs.

Study: COVID-19 present opportunity for online agricultural retailers

GENEVA (AP) — World Trade Organization arbitrators say that the European Union can sanction up to $4 billion in U.S. goods over Washington’s illegal support for plane maker Boeing.

The ruling could inflame Trump administration criticism of the Geneva-based trade body. It amounts to one of the largest penalties handed down by the WTO.

It comes a year after another ruling authorized billions in penalties against the European Union over support for Boeing rival Airbus. The decision is final, cannot be appealed, and puts the final word on a standoff dating back to 2006.

GENEVA (AP) — World Trade Organization arbitrators say that the European Union can sanction up to $4 billion in U.S. goods over Washington’s illegal support for plane maker Boeing.The ruling could inflame Trump administration criticism of the Geneva-based trade body. It amounts to one of the largest penalties handed down by the WTO.It comes a year after another ruling authorized billions in penalties against the European Union over support for Boeing rival Airbus. The decision is final, cannot be appealed, and puts the final word on a standoff dating back to 2006.

Trade body rules EU can put tariffs on $4 bln of US goods

The National Biodiesel Conference and Expo is going virtual for the 2021 event January 18-21. The event is going online to share the latest biodiesel and renewable diesel industry news, highlight key speakers, and showcase industry sponsor companies. 

The virtual event will be accessible to everyone, sharing the industry’s message from coast to coast through a new, safe format that will rise to meet the needs of all attendees. The event is one of many in early 2021 pivoting to a virtual platform due to COVID-19 concerns. 

NBB CEO Donnell Rehagen says, “we can't wait to kick off a new year in 2021 with our members and key industry partners during our first-ever virtual conference.” 

The conference includes topics on low-carbon fuels, bioheat, the Renewable Fuel Standard, and the changing landscape for diesel vehicles, among many others. Registration is open for the 2021 National Biodiesel Conference &amp; Expo online at biodieselconference.org.

The National Biodiesel Conference and Expo is going virtual for the 2021 event January 18-21. The event is going online to share the latest biodiesel and renewable diesel industry news, highlight key speakers, and showcase industry sponsor companies. The virtual event will be accessible to everyone, sharing the industry’s message from coast to coast through a new, safe format that will rise to meet the needs of all attendees. The event is one of many in early 2021 pivoting to a virtual platform due to COVID-19 concerns. NBB CEO Donnell Rehagen says, “we can't wait to kick off a new year in 2021 with our members and key industry partners during our first-ever virtual conference.” The conference includes topics on low-carbon fuels, bioheat, the Renewable Fuel Standard, and the changing landscape for diesel vehicles, among many others. Registration is open for the 2021 National Biodiesel Conference &amp; Expo online at biodieselconference.org.

2021 National Biodiesel Conference and Expo goes virtual

USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue violated the Hatch Act in August because he encouraged voters to support the president’s re-election campaign while promoting food boxes. The event took place in Mills River, North Carolina, and was designed to promote the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. 

The U.S. Office of Special Counsel sent a letter to Perdue saying the ag secretary has to reimburse the federal government for the cost of the trip to North Carolina. President Trump attended the event, during which Perdue said the people lined up along the motorcade route were “part of those forgotten people that voted for you in 2016.” 

Perdue also told the president that those same people will vote for him for four more years in 2020. “They understand, under your administration, they’ve not been forgotten,” he added, “and this program is a great example of that.” The Hatch Act bars federal employees, even Cabinet members, from engaging in political activity while at work. 

“Taken as a whole, Secretary Perdue’s comments during the event encouraged those present, and those watching remotely, to vote for President Trump’s re-election,” the Hatch Act unit’s chief counsel wrote in the letter. The Ag Department didn’t respond to The Hill’s request for comment and didn’t provide an estimate of the cost of the trip that Perdue must now reimburse.

USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue violated the Hatch Act in August because he encouraged voters to support the president’s re-election campaign while promoting food boxes. The event took place in Mills River, North Carolina, and was designed to promote the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. The U.S. Office of Special Counsel sent a letter to Perdue saying the ag secretary has to reimburse the federal government for the cost of the trip to North Carolina. President Trump attended the event, during which Perdue said the people lined up along the motorcade route were “part of those forgotten people that voted for you in 2016.” Perdue also told the president that those same people will vote for him for four more years in 2020. “They understand, under your administration, they’ve not been forgotten,” he added, “and this program is a great example of that.” The Hatch Act bars federal employees, even Cabinet members, from engaging in political activity while at work. “Taken as a whole, Secretary Perdue’s comments during the event encouraged those present, and those watching remotely, to vote for President Trump’s re-election,” the Hatch Act unit’s chief counsel wrote in the letter. The Ag Department didn’t respond to The Hill’s request for comment and didn’t provide an estimate of the cost of the trip that Perdue must now reimburse.

Perdue fined for Hatch Act violations while promoting food boxes

COVID-19 brought about a collapse in fuel demand across the U.S., pushing many ethanol facilities to either slow down or halt their production. Reuters says many ethanol facilities switched their focus from producing ethanol to manufacturing high-grade alcohol hand sanitizers. 

Demand for the product skyrocketed during COVID as Americans hurried to grab protection against the coronavirus. Several companies are beginning to view the hand sanitizer market as more than a temporary band-aid against lower demand for fuel. 

Many are making permanent investments in the production of high-grade alcohol that meets standards for producing the sanitizer. Companies like Pacific Ethanol, Green Plains, and Highwater Ethanol have all said they’re boosting the capacity to produce high-grade alcohol. 

Those announcements seem to indicate that some producers see more profitability in hand cleanliness because of COVID-19 than they do in transportation fuels. 

Fuel ethanol production around the country has bounced back from the spring doldrums, hitting 923,000 barrels per day, up from 537,000 in April. The Energy Information Administration says that the number is still four percent lower than the same time last year.

COVID-19 brought about a collapse in fuel demand across the U.S., pushing many ethanol facilities to either slow down or halt their production. Reuters says many ethanol facilities switched their focus from producing ethanol to manufacturing high-grade alcohol hand sanitizers. Demand for the product skyrocketed during COVID as Americans hurried to grab protection against the coronavirus. Several companies are beginning to view the hand sanitizer market as more than a temporary band-aid against lower demand for fuel. Many are making permanent investments in the production of high-grade alcohol that meets standards for producing the sanitizer. Companies like Pacific Ethanol, Green Plains, and Highwater Ethanol have all said they’re boosting the capacity to produce high-grade alcohol. Those announcements seem to indicate that some producers see more profitability in hand cleanliness because of COVID-19 than they do in transportation fuels. Fuel ethanol production around the country has bounced back from the spring doldrums, hitting 923,000 barrels per day, up from 537,000 in April. The Energy Information Administration says that the number is still four percent lower than the same time last year.

Ethanol producers investing in hand sanitizer for the long term

CoBank says the U.S. economy has shown signs of improving since late spring. However, progress has slowed, and the economy remains fragile. As another relief package is off and then on the table, for now, CoBank says the economy will remain sluggish through the end of the year. 

A new Quarterly Report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says rural America is experiencing a dichotomy of improving industry fundamentals and a rise in COVID cases. “The good news, from an economic standpoint, is that many rural industries have begun to turn the corner,” says Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange Division. 

“This is particularly true in agriculture. A weaker dollar has supported a price recovery in most agricultural commodities.” He says despite a large number of challenges this year, essential rural industries are finding new ways to survive, and in some cases, thrive.” 

For example, the U.S. ethanol sector continued to recover during the third quarter, reaching a new baseline level equivalent to 90 percent of pre-COVID demand. 

CoBank also says recent reductions in ending stocks and expected production have provided a relief rally for U.S. grain farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dairy farmers and the U.S. beef complex also ended the third quarter in a stronger position than when they started quarter number three.

CoBank says the U.S. economy has shown signs of improving since late spring. However, progress has slowed, and the economy remains fragile. As another relief package is off and then on the table, for now, CoBank says the economy will remain sluggish through the end of the year. A new Quarterly Report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says rural America is experiencing a dichotomy of improving industry fundamentals and a rise in COVID cases. “The good news, from an economic standpoint, is that many rural industries have begun to turn the corner,” says Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange Division. “This is particularly true in agriculture. A weaker dollar has supported a price recovery in most agricultural commodities.” He says despite a large number of challenges this year, essential rural industries are finding new ways to survive, and in some cases, thrive.” For example, the U.S. ethanol sector continued to recover during the third quarter, reaching a new baseline level equivalent to 90 percent of pre-COVID demand. CoBank also says recent reductions in ending stocks and expected production have provided a relief rally for U.S. grain farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dairy farmers and the U.S. beef complex also ended the third quarter in a stronger position than when they started quarter number three.

U.S. economy still sputtering as ag economy showing signs of life

August exports of U.S. beef and pork muscle cuts were above last year's strong volumes, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Variety meat exports were lower than a year ago, due in part to the lack of available labor required to harvest and export some items. 

Beef muscle cut exports were the largest in more than a year at 89,100 metric tons, up 3.5 percent, while export value increased slightly from a year ago to $611 million. 

August muscle cut exports also set new records in China and Indonesia and beef exports to Canada continued to gain momentum. Combined pork and pork variety meat exports were down two percent in volume and ten percent lower in value at $528 million. 

However, U.S. pork exports remain on a record pace in 2020. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom calls the trend in muscle cuts “very encouraging and especially critical” as production continues to rebound from the interruptions earlier in the year.

August exports of U.S. beef and pork muscle cuts were above last year's strong volumes, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Variety meat exports were lower than a year ago, due in part to the lack of available labor required to harvest and export some items. Beef muscle cut exports were the largest in more than a year at 89,100 metric tons, up 3.5 percent, while export value increased slightly from a year ago to $611 million. August muscle cut exports also set new records in China and Indonesia and beef exports to Canada continued to gain momentum. Combined pork and pork variety meat exports were down two percent in volume and ten percent lower in value at $528 million. However, U.S. pork exports remain on a record pace in 2020. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom calls the trend in muscle cuts “very encouraging and especially critical” as production continues to rebound from the interruptions earlier in the year.

Red meat muscle cut exports strong in August

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Wednesday announced $72 million in grants to help rural residents access health care and educational opportunities. The Department of Agriculture says the investments will benefit more than 12 million rural residents. 

Perdue stated, “Increasing access to telemedicine and distance learning is critical to building healthier and more resilient rural communities.” USDA is funding 116 projects through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program. 

The program helps health care and education institutions buy the equipment and software necessary to deploy distance-learning and telemedicine services. Perdue announced investments in 40 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. 

One of the noted projects in Texas, the Epic Charter School is receiving a $969,000 grant to link urban schools in Oklahoma and Texas with rural schools, students and community partners in both states. In Kentucky, the Bluegrass Care Navigators will use a $500,000 grant to establish a regional telemedicine network with a hub site at its headquarters in Lexington.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Wednesday announced $72 million in grants to help rural residents access health care and educational opportunities. The Department of Agriculture says the investments will benefit more than 12 million rural residents. Perdue stated, “Increasing access to telemedicine and distance learning is critical to building healthier and more resilient rural communities.” USDA is funding 116 projects through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program. The program helps health care and education institutions buy the equipment and software necessary to deploy distance-learning and telemedicine services. Perdue announced investments in 40 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. One of the noted projects in Texas, the Epic Charter School is receiving a $969,000 grant to link urban schools in Oklahoma and Texas with rural schools, students and community partners in both states. In Kentucky, the Bluegrass Care Navigators will use a $500,000 grant to establish a regional telemedicine network with a hub site at its headquarters in Lexington.

Trump administration invests $72 million in distance learning and telemedicine

The Department of Agriculture touted biofuels investments in Iowa Thursday. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced USDA has invested $22 million out of the up to $100 million in grants available to increase U.S. ethanol and biodiesel sales. The funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program to recipients in 14 states. 

The program helps transportation fueling and biodiesel distribution facilities convert to higher ethanol and biodiesel blends by sharing the costs related to installing fuel pumps, equipment and infrastructure. 

The initial $22 million in investments are projected to increase ethanol demand by nearly 150 million gallons annually. USDA plans on announcing the remaining investments in the coming weeks. 

On the same day, Rural America 2020 flew a plane carrying a banner over select Iowa cities. the banner read, “Trump Sold Out Ethanol for Big Oil.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The group cites Trump administration waivers to oil companies to avoid ethanol requirements that have depressed ethanol demand.

The Department of Agriculture touted biofuels investments in Iowa Thursday. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced USDA has invested $22 million out of the up to $100 million in grants available to increase U.S. ethanol and biodiesel sales. The funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program to recipients in 14 states. The program helps transportation fueling and biodiesel distribution facilities convert to higher ethanol and biodiesel blends by sharing the costs related to installing fuel pumps, equipment and infrastructure. The initial $22 million in investments are projected to increase ethanol demand by nearly 150 million gallons annually. USDA plans on announcing the remaining investments in the coming weeks. On the same day, Rural America 2020 flew a plane carrying a banner over select Iowa cities. the banner read, “Trump Sold Out Ethanol for Big Oil.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The group cites Trump administration waivers to oil companies to avoid ethanol requirements that have depressed ethanol demand.

USDA announces biofuels investment to increase sales

A group of agriculture and farm leaders offered their support for Joe Biden's presidential campaign in an open letter. The leaders say agriculture is threatened by both environmental and economic challenges. The letter states, "America needs strong leaders who will tackle these challenges and shape policies that encourage agriculture to flourish." 

The letter adds, "These reasons are why we, a diverse community of scientists, farmers, and agricultural professionals…support Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for President and Vice President of the United States.” 

The letter includes former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, former chief ag negotiatior Darcy Vetter, and former National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson. Additionally, various farmers, former state officials from Department of Agriculture offices and others, signed the letter. 

The Hagstrom Report points out that Sarah Garland organized the letter, a scientist in the post-doctoral research program at the Earth Institute of Columbia University. Garland was an intern at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy during the Obama administration.

A group of agriculture and farm leaders offered their support for Joe Biden's presidential campaign in an open letter. The leaders say agriculture is threatened by both environmental and economic challenges. The letter states, "America needs strong leaders who will tackle these challenges and shape policies that encourage agriculture to flourish." The letter adds, "These reasons are why we, a diverse community of scientists, farmers, and agricultural professionals…support Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for President and Vice President of the United States.” The letter includes former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, former chief ag negotiatior Darcy Vetter, and former National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson. Additionally, various farmers, former state officials from Department of Agriculture offices and others, signed the letter. The Hagstrom Report points out that Sarah Garland organized the letter, a scientist in the post-doctoral research program at the Earth Institute of Columbia University. Garland was an intern at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy during the Obama administration.

Group of ag leaders endorse Biden-Harris

President Donald Trump dashed hopes lawmakers could reach an agreement on another catch-all Coronavirus relief package. Trump said the talks were suspended until after the November election. 

Trump claimed House Democrats “were just playing games” with Republicans and his administration. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi claimed walking away from the talks is another example of Trump, "putting himself first at the expense of the country.” 

Yet, late Tuesday evening, the President suggested Congress pass stand-alone packages for airline relief, the Paycheck Protection Program and $1,200 stimulus checks. 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew responded, “Americans need help, and they need it now,” adding Trump, “must reverse course and work with Congress to preserve our economy and the wellbeing of every American.” 

The $2 trillion House-passed HEROES Act included several agriculture provisions, such as payments to poultry and dairy farms, and funding for ethanol plants and textile mills. However, a month before the election, it seems any aid is nothing more than a talking point.

President Donald Trump dashed hopes lawmakers could reach an agreement on another catch-all Coronavirus relief package. Trump said the talks were suspended until after the November election. Trump claimed House Democrats “were just playing games” with Republicans and his administration. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi claimed walking away from the talks is another example of Trump, "putting himself first at the expense of the country.” Yet, late Tuesday evening, the President suggested Congress pass stand-alone packages for airline relief, the Paycheck Protection Program and $1,200 stimulus checks. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew responded, “Americans need help, and they need it now,” adding Trump, “must reverse course and work with Congress to preserve our economy and the wellbeing of every American.” The $2 trillion House-passed HEROES Act included several agriculture provisions, such as payments to poultry and dairy farms, and funding for ethanol plants and textile mills. However, a month before the election, it seems any aid is nothing more than a talking point.

Coronavirus relief on hold

Corteva warns farmers current drought conditions in the Corn Belt could cause herbicide carryover in 2021. The concentration of herbicide remaining in the soil at next season's planting may be too high if dry conditions persist. 

This will depend on herbicide chemical properties, soil characteristics and the weather, according to Pioneer Field Agronomist Bob Berkevich. Additionally, while this season's crop may be well-suited to tolerating the herbicide used, a rotational crop may be susceptible to injury. 

Emerging plants are more likely to show injury to residual herbicide levels if other stressors, such as compaction or cold, wet soils are also present. Berkevich says farmers cannot do much to change the concentration of herbicides present in the soil. 

But there are several steps they can take to help reduce the risk of carryover injury, such as reviewing spray records for each field to see what restrictions are indicated or even going so far as delaying planting.

Corteva warns farmers current drought conditions in the Corn Belt could cause herbicide carryover in 2021. The concentration of herbicide remaining in the soil at next season's planting may be too high if dry conditions persist. This will depend on herbicide chemical properties, soil characteristics and the weather, according to Pioneer Field Agronomist Bob Berkevich. Additionally, while this season's crop may be well-suited to tolerating the herbicide used, a rotational crop may be susceptible to injury. Emerging plants are more likely to show injury to residual herbicide levels if other stressors, such as compaction or cold, wet soils are also present. Berkevich says farmers cannot do much to change the concentration of herbicides present in the soil. But there are several steps they can take to help reduce the risk of carryover injury, such as reviewing spray records for each field to see what restrictions are indicated or even going so far as delaying planting.

Corteva: Dry conditions may result in 2021 herbicide carryover injuries

U.S. agricultural producers became more optimistic again in September. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 156, the highest reading for the index since the pandemic began last winter and 12 points higher than one-month earlier. 

Since July, the index is up 38 points and is 60 points higher than its 2020 low established back in April. In September, producers were more optimistic about current conditions and the future for agriculture than in August. 

The Current Conditions Index, with a reading of 142, was 18 points higher compared to a month earlier and the Future Expectations Index rose nine points to a reading of 163. 

Organizers say The Department of Agriculture’s announcement of the second round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program payments to producers and the ongoing rally in fall crop prices were likely the two primary drivers behind the improvement.

 Farmers were also more optimistic about making investments in their farming operation and about the short-run outlook for farmland values than they were in August.

U.S. agricultural producers became more optimistic again in September. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 156, the highest reading for the index since the pandemic began last winter and 12 points higher than one-month earlier. Since July, the index is up 38 points and is 60 points higher than its 2020 low established back in April. In September, producers were more optimistic about current conditions and the future for agriculture than in August. The Current Conditions Index, with a reading of 142, was 18 points higher compared to a month earlier and the Future Expectations Index rose nine points to a reading of 163. Organizers say The Department of Agriculture’s announcement of the second round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program payments to producers and the ongoing rally in fall crop prices were likely the two primary drivers behind the improvement. Farmers were also more optimistic about making investments in their farming operation and about the short-run outlook for farmland values than they were in August.

Farmers showing more optimism in monthly ag economy barometer

September precipitation was well-below normal in the Missouri River Basin. As a result, September runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 69 percent of average. 

Since January, precipitation in the upper Basin is well-below normal, a stark contrast to the last three years of high water along the river and flooding. 

2019 saw historic flooding along the Missouri River, with the Army Corps of Engineers releasing large amounts of water from Gavins Point Dam, destroying levees and flooding farmland. 

This fall, Missouri River Basin Water Management Division chief John Reemus says, “Releases from Gavins Point Dam are being made to meet full-service Missouri River navigation flow targets.” 

According to the National Drought Mitigation Center, drought conditions continue to worsen across much of the upper Basin. Wide-spread areas of drought classified as Extreme are evident in Colorado and Wyoming. Moderate to Severe drought conditions are present in large areas of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa.

September precipitation was well-below normal in the Missouri River Basin. As a result, September runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 69 percent of average. Since January, precipitation in the upper Basin is well-below normal, a stark contrast to the last three years of high water along the river and flooding. 2019 saw historic flooding along the Missouri River, with the Army Corps of Engineers releasing large amounts of water from Gavins Point Dam, destroying levees and flooding farmland. This fall, Missouri River Basin Water Management Division chief John Reemus says, “Releases from Gavins Point Dam are being made to meet full-service Missouri River navigation flow targets.” According to the National Drought Mitigation Center, drought conditions continue to worsen across much of the upper Basin. Wide-spread areas of drought classified as Extreme are evident in Colorado and Wyoming. Moderate to Severe drought conditions are present in large areas of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa.

Below average runoff continues along Missouri River basin

Oil prices lost significant ground last week over concerns about rising COVID-19 cases, including President Donald Trump testing positive for the virus. A barrel of West Texas Intermediate crude oil closed last week at nearly $37 per barrel, a drop from $40.36 last Monday. 

GasBuddy reports the national average price of gasoline has fallen in the last week, posting a decline of 0.7 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.17. 

Meanwhile, the national average price of diesel is unchanged from a week ago and stands at $2.38 per gallon. However, Patrick De Hann of GasBuddy says, “Friday saw the highest gasoline demand since Labor Day,” suggesting, “we may see an end to the possibility of future declines.” 

Government data released last week showed a small decline in oil inventories of two million barrels for the prior week, while remaining about 13 percent above the five-year average for this time of year. Inventories now stand some 70 million barrels, or 16.5 percent, above their year-ago level.

Oil prices lost significant ground last week over concerns about rising COVID-19 cases, including President Donald Trump testing positive for the virus. A barrel of West Texas Intermediate crude oil closed last week at nearly $37 per barrel, a drop from $40.36 last Monday. GasBuddy reports the national average price of gasoline has fallen in the last week, posting a decline of 0.7 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.17. Meanwhile, the national average price of diesel is unchanged from a week ago and stands at $2.38 per gallon. However, Patrick De Hann of GasBuddy says, “Friday saw the highest gasoline demand since Labor Day,” suggesting, “we may see an end to the possibility of future declines.” Government data released last week showed a small decline in oil inventories of two million barrels for the prior week, while remaining about 13 percent above the five-year average for this time of year. Inventories now stand some 70 million barrels, or 16.5 percent, above their year-ago level.

Oil prices fall amid COVID-19 concerns

The Trump administration Friday announced a trade investigation over two issues related to Vietnam. At the direction of President Donald Trump, the U.S. Trade Representative’s will investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices related to the import and use of timber that is illegally harvested or traded. 

USTR will also investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices that may contribute to the undervaluation of its currency and the resultant harm caused to U.S. commerce. 

As part of its investigation on currency undervaluation, USTR will consult with the Department of the Treasury as to issues of currency valuation and exchange rate policy. 

Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer stated, “Using illegal timber in wood products exported to the U.S. market harms the environment and is unfair to U.S. workers and businesses who follow the rules by using legally harvested timber.” USTR will issue two separate Federal Register notices this week that will provide details of the investigation.

The Trump administration Friday announced a trade investigation over two issues related to Vietnam. At the direction of President Donald Trump, the U.S. Trade Representative’s will investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices related to the import and use of timber that is illegally harvested or traded. USTR will also investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices that may contribute to the undervaluation of its currency and the resultant harm caused to U.S. commerce. As part of its investigation on currency undervaluation, USTR will consult with the Department of the Treasury as to issues of currency valuation and exchange rate policy. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer stated, “Using illegal timber in wood products exported to the U.S. market harms the environment and is unfair to U.S. workers and businesses who follow the rules by using legally harvested timber.” USTR will issue two separate Federal Register notices this week that will provide details of the investigation.

USTR initiates Vietnam section 301 investigation

Hopes a COVID-19 stimulus package can be completed before the November election are increasing. With President Donald Trump and many staffers in the White House testing positive for the virus over the last week, Trump has indicated support for a new stimulus package.

 Trump stated via Twitter over the weekend, the nation "wants and needs" stimulus, directing lawmakers to "work together and get it done." Meanwhile, speaking to CBS's Face The Nation over the weekend, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi indicated, “we are making progress.” 

Asked if an agreement could come this week, Pelosi says, “that just depends on if they understand what we have to do to crush the virus,” referring to Republicans. The House passed another version of its HEROES Act last week, a $2.2 trillion coronavirus aid package. 

The legislation includes aid to ethanol plants, livestock producers who had to euthanize animals because of no slaughterhouse capacity, as well as a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

Hopes a COVID-19 stimulus package can be completed before the November election are increasing. With President Donald Trump and many staffers in the White House testing positive for the virus over the last week, Trump has indicated support for a new stimulus package. Trump stated via Twitter over the weekend, the nation "wants and needs" stimulus, directing lawmakers to "work together and get it done." Meanwhile, speaking to CBS's Face The Nation over the weekend, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi indicated, “we are making progress.” Asked if an agreement could come this week, Pelosi says, “that just depends on if they understand what we have to do to crush the virus,” referring to Republicans. The House passed another version of its HEROES Act last week, a $2.2 trillion coronavirus aid package. The legislation includes aid to ethanol plants, livestock producers who had to euthanize animals because of no slaughterhouse capacity, as well as a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

Stimulus talks remain hopeful

South Dakota Representative Dusty Johnson introduced the Price Reform in Cattle Economics Act. The House Ag Committee member says the bill would increase transparency in the cattle market, as well as improve risk management for producers and support new and existing meat processors. 

The Hagstrom Report says he wrote the bill as a response to recent extreme cases of market volatility after the Tyson Plant fire in Holcomb, Kansas, in 2019, as well as during COVID-19. Johnson says cattle country is hurting and hasn’t fully recovered from the recent challenges. 

“USDA has laid out multiple areas where Congress could implement real solutions to improve the market,” he says. “The PRICE Act is the answer to many of the years-long challenges producers have battled.” He says cattle producers want a fair market and fair prices. 

“Congress needs to step up for cattle country,” Johnson adds, “which is what the bill will do.” The PRICE Act is supported by groups like the American Farm Bureau Federation, South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

South Dakota Representative Dusty Johnson introduced the Price Reform in Cattle Economics Act. The House Ag Committee member says the bill would increase transparency in the cattle market, as well as improve risk management for producers and support new and existing meat processors. The Hagstrom Report says he wrote the bill as a response to recent extreme cases of market volatility after the Tyson Plant fire in Holcomb, Kansas, in 2019, as well as during COVID-19. Johnson says cattle country is hurting and hasn’t fully recovered from the recent challenges. “USDA has laid out multiple areas where Congress could implement real solutions to improve the market,” he says. “The PRICE Act is the answer to many of the years-long challenges producers have battled.” He says cattle producers want a fair market and fair prices. “Congress needs to step up for cattle country,” Johnson adds, “which is what the bill will do.” The PRICE Act is supported by groups like the American Farm Bureau Federation, South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

PRICE Act would make changes to cattle markets

The House of Representatives passed a $2.2 trillion coronavirus aid package that Democrats say is an update to the previous $3.4 billion bill that passed in May. The vote was 214 to 207, with 18 Democrats joining all the Republicans who voted against it. 

The legislation includes aid to ethanol plants, livestock producers who had to euthanize animals because of no slaughterhouse capacity, as well as a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. 

The package incorporates many provisions that the National Farmers Union members requested during the recent virtual fly-in, including support for local and regional meat processing, farm-stress programs, as well as the nutrition assistance. 

NFU President Rob Larew is urging the Senate to quickly move forward with the final passage. “Throughout the pandemic, Congress and the USDA have worked to provide family farmers and ranchers with the help they need,” Larew says. “These efforts have gone a long way toward keeping farmers afloat during market uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.” 

However, the NFU points out that the strength of the ag economy depends on the strength of the overall economy and the wellbeing of Americans, so they’re pushing for another economic stimulus package. “The time is now for the Senate and White House to agree on a stimulus package,” Larew adds.

The House of Representatives passed a $2.2 trillion coronavirus aid package that Democrats say is an update to the previous $3.4 billion bill that passed in May. The vote was 214 to 207, with 18 Democrats joining all the Republicans who voted against it. The legislation includes aid to ethanol plants, livestock producers who had to euthanize animals because of no slaughterhouse capacity, as well as a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. The package incorporates many provisions that the National Farmers Union members requested during the recent virtual fly-in, including support for local and regional meat processing, farm-stress programs, as well as the nutrition assistance. NFU President Rob Larew is urging the Senate to quickly move forward with the final passage. “Throughout the pandemic, Congress and the USDA have worked to provide family farmers and ranchers with the help they need,” Larew says. “These efforts have gone a long way toward keeping farmers afloat during market uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.” However, the NFU points out that the strength of the ag economy depends on the strength of the overall economy and the wellbeing of Americans, so they’re pushing for another economic stimulus package. “The time is now for the Senate and White House to agree on a stimulus package,” Larew adds.

House passes amended Heroes Act

A new soy-based concrete sealant is protecting roadways in the U.S. while also supporting demand for soybeans and reducing maintenance costs for infrastructure. The United Soybean Board partnered with the Indiana Soybean Alliance on research and market development efforts for soy-based solutions in infrastructure for decades. 

They’re proud to announce that select Indiana counties have the opportunity to use a new soy-based sealant called PoreShield on their bridges. The brand-new product is made possible by farmers’ checkoff investments. PoreShield is being used on 77 bridge decks totaling 330,000 square feet in Indiana this year, with aims to expand the use in the future. 

The good news for farmers is, as PoreShield continues to be adopted as a solution, demand for soybeans grows too. On average, PoreShield uses 200 bushels of soybeans per mile of two-lane bridge treatment. That’s equivalent to 7.5 acres of soybeans for each mile demanded by this market. 

“As a renewable alternative, using U.S.-grown soybean oil as a concrete-durability enhancer is among one of 1,000 soy-based products currently on the market,” says John Jansen, USB Vice President of Oil Strategy. “It unlocks yet another use that drives demand for our soybeans, and with PoreShield, there’s enormous potential for roads and bridges that need these critical enhancements.”

A new soy-based concrete sealant is protecting roadways in the U.S. while also supporting demand for soybeans and reducing maintenance costs for infrastructure. The United Soybean Board partnered with the Indiana Soybean Alliance on research and market development efforts for soy-based solutions in infrastructure for decades. They’re proud to announce that select Indiana counties have the opportunity to use a new soy-based sealant called PoreShield on their bridges. The brand-new product is made possible by farmers’ checkoff investments. PoreShield is being used on 77 bridge decks totaling 330,000 square feet in Indiana this year, with aims to expand the use in the future. The good news for farmers is, as PoreShield continues to be adopted as a solution, demand for soybeans grows too. On average, PoreShield uses 200 bushels of soybeans per mile of two-lane bridge treatment. That’s equivalent to 7.5 acres of soybeans for each mile demanded by this market. “As a renewable alternative, using U.S.-grown soybean oil as a concrete-durability enhancer is among one of 1,000 soy-based products currently on the market,” says John Jansen, USB Vice President of Oil Strategy. “It unlocks yet another use that drives demand for our soybeans, and with PoreShield, there’s enormous potential for roads and bridges that need these critical enhancements.”