The U.S. District Court in Minnesota dismissed an anti-trust lawsuit against meatpackers like Tyson Foods, JBS, the National Beef Packing Company, and Cargill. R-CALF led several plaintiffs in filing the lawsuit. Chief Judge John Tunheim did leave open the opportunity for plaintiffs to amend their complaint. 

Tyson Foods says, “We’re pleased with the court’s decision.” In the ruling, the judge says the complaint didn’t give much evidence of how meatpackers conspired to manipulate prices for fed cattle; instead, “it resorted to group pleading, arguing that the market did this or that.” 

In his written opinion, Tunheim says, “The most specific allegations related to 2015 when JBS dropped its annual slaughter volume by 17 percent, National Beef by six percent, and Tyson by four percent. Plaintiffs then say little about the defendants in the years that follow when slaughter volumes actually increased. &nbsp;

As for other allegations like a reduction in the number of cash cattle purchased, the judge says plaintiffs rely almost exclusively on industry-wide data and ask the court to infer that the individual defendants all contributed to the decrease simply because they make up a majority of the industry. 

The Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund, the United Stockgrowers of America, and the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America filed the lawsuit in April of 2019.

The U.S. District Court in Minnesota dismissed an anti-trust lawsuit against meatpackers like Tyson Foods, JBS, the National Beef Packing Company, and Cargill. R-CALF led several plaintiffs in filing the lawsuit. Chief Judge John Tunheim did leave open the opportunity for plaintiffs to amend their complaint. Tyson Foods says, “We’re pleased with the court’s decision.” In the ruling, the judge says the complaint didn’t give much evidence of how meatpackers conspired to manipulate prices for fed cattle; instead, “it resorted to group pleading, arguing that the market did this or that.” In his written opinion, Tunheim says, “The most specific allegations related to 2015 when JBS dropped its annual slaughter volume by 17 percent, National Beef by six percent, and Tyson by four percent. Plaintiffs then say little about the defendants in the years that follow when slaughter volumes actually increased. &nbsp;As for other allegations like a reduction in the number of cash cattle purchased, the judge says plaintiffs rely almost exclusively on industry-wide data and ask the court to infer that the individual defendants all contributed to the decrease simply because they make up a majority of the industry. The Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund, the United Stockgrowers of America, and the Farmers Educational and Cooperative Union of America filed the lawsuit in April of 2019.

Minnesota court dismisses lawsuit against meatpackers

Late Wednesday, the Senate approved the continuing resolution to fund the government through December 11 just hours before the end of the fiscal year. 

The Hagstrom Report says the bill now goes to President Trump for his signature. Senate Ag Committee Chair Pat Roberts, other lawmakers, along with farm and nutrition groups, noted the importance of provisions that allow farm subsidies to continue to flow and hungry Americans to get food. The CR passed by a margin of 84 to 10. 

“In these wildly uncertain times, farmers, ranchers, and growers are counting on us to get this right,” Roberts says. “I hope farm country can rest a little easier tonight knowing that funds for the Commodity Credit Corporation will be replenished to continue farm bill programs and assist producers who are impacted by COVID-19.” 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the passage is an “immense relief” to farmers, who depend on federally funded programs to access loans, technical support, as well as critical market and climate data. 

National Corn Growers Association President Kevin Ross adds that farmers have been working with Congress for years to develop and implement effective risk management tools that ensure a stable feed, fuel, and food supply, even during the tough times that many farmers face today.”

Late Wednesday, the Senate approved the continuing resolution to fund the government through December 11 just hours before the end of the fiscal year. The Hagstrom Report says the bill now goes to President Trump for his signature. Senate Ag Committee Chair Pat Roberts, other lawmakers, along with farm and nutrition groups, noted the importance of provisions that allow farm subsidies to continue to flow and hungry Americans to get food. The CR passed by a margin of 84 to 10. “In these wildly uncertain times, farmers, ranchers, and growers are counting on us to get this right,” Roberts says. “I hope farm country can rest a little easier tonight knowing that funds for the Commodity Credit Corporation will be replenished to continue farm bill programs and assist producers who are impacted by COVID-19.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the passage is an “immense relief” to farmers, who depend on federally funded programs to access loans, technical support, as well as critical market and climate data. National Corn Growers Association President Kevin Ross adds that farmers have been working with Congress for years to develop and implement effective risk management tools that ensure a stable feed, fuel, and food supply, even during the tough times that many farmers face today.”

Senate approves continuing resolution: CR bill goes to Trump

The Consumer Brands Association's latest COVID-19 poll asked more than 1,300 American adults about their opinions on the coronavirus and its effect on the country. The data shows a country normalized by a persistent threat and contending with growing anxiety over what’s ahead. 

When the pandemic began, 36 percent of Americans described themselves as "very concerned" in mid-March, which jumped up to a majority quickly after and has yet to dip below 50 percent since. 

While most Americans, 72 percent, are still optimistic about the next six months, that optimism has dipped slightly since June, from 76 percent. The perennial lengthening of the timetable for returning to normal and the whiplash changes in the news about the virus, whether driven by politics or new information, has pushed optimism lower. 

While the supply chain has largely solved for shortages of high-demand products like toilet paper, meat and cleaning supplies brought on by panic-buying early in the pandemic, Americans' fears over access to those products have not.&nbsp;

The Consumer Brands Association's latest COVID-19 poll asked more than 1,300 American adults about their opinions on the coronavirus and its effect on the country. The data shows a country normalized by a persistent threat and contending with growing anxiety over what’s ahead. When the pandemic began, 36 percent of Americans described themselves as "very concerned" in mid-March, which jumped up to a majority quickly after and has yet to dip below 50 percent since. While most Americans, 72 percent, are still optimistic about the next six months, that optimism has dipped slightly since June, from 76 percent. The perennial lengthening of the timetable for returning to normal and the whiplash changes in the news about the virus, whether driven by politics or new information, has pushed optimism lower. While the supply chain has largely solved for shortages of high-demand products like toilet paper, meat and cleaning supplies brought on by panic-buying early in the pandemic, Americans' fears over access to those products have not.&nbsp;

Consumer expectations change as the pandemic enters a new season

The Quarterly Grain Stocks report shows old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1, 2020, totaled 2.0 billion bushels, down ten percent from a year ago. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down 42 percent, and all wheat stocks were down eight percent from a year earlier. 

Released by the Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the report found that of the total corn stocks, 751 million bushels were stored on farms, down eight percent from a year earlier. Off-farm stocks, at 1.24 billion bushels, were down 12 percent from a year ago. 

Old crop soybeans stored in all positions totaled 523 million bushels. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 141 million bushels, down 47 percent, and off-farm stocks, at 382 million bushels, were down 41 percent. 

All wheat stored in all positions totaled 2.16 billion bushels. On-farm stocks were estimated at 705 million bushels, down four percent, and off-farm stocks were down ten percent at 1.45 billion bushels.

NASS also released the Small Grains Annual Summary report. The report found All wheat production totaled 1.83 billion bushels in 2020, down five percent from the revised 2019 total of 1.93 billion bushels. 

Area harvested for grain totaled 36.7 million acres, down two percent from 2019, and The United States yield was estimated at 49.7 bushels per acre, down 2.0 bushels from 2019.

The Quarterly Grain Stocks report shows old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1, 2020, totaled 2.0 billion bushels, down ten percent from a year ago. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down 42 percent, and all wheat stocks were down eight percent from a year earlier. Released by the Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the report found that of the total corn stocks, 751 million bushels were stored on farms, down eight percent from a year earlier. Off-farm stocks, at 1.24 billion bushels, were down 12 percent from a year ago. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions totaled 523 million bushels. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 141 million bushels, down 47 percent, and off-farm stocks, at 382 million bushels, were down 41 percent. All wheat stored in all positions totaled 2.16 billion bushels. On-farm stocks were estimated at 705 million bushels, down four percent, and off-farm stocks were down ten percent at 1.45 billion bushels.NASS also released the Small Grains Annual Summary report. The report found All wheat production totaled 1.83 billion bushels in 2020, down five percent from the revised 2019 total of 1.93 billion bushels. Area harvested for grain totaled 36.7 million acres, down two percent from 2019, and The United States yield was estimated at 49.7 bushels per acre, down 2.0 bushels from 2019.

USDA releases grain stocks report

A new study by university economists finds ethanol producers will experience roughly $8 billion in losses this year due to the pandemic's impact on world fuel markets. 

The study, conducted by economists from the University of Florida and Arizona State University, was published recently in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Industrial Organization. The estimated economic loss grows to a range of $7.9 to $8.6 billion when unemployment effects are included. 

The study acknowledges that those estimates likely "understate the cost of COVID-19" to the ethanol industry because the impact of the pandemic on co-product output, demand and prices is not included. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says the new study confirms the findings of an RFA analysis published in July, which found pandemic-related losses could be $7 billion or more in 2020. 

According to RFA, the study also underscores the importance of ensuring ethanol producers are not again left out of any stimulus package that may move forward in the weeks ahead.

A new study by university economists finds ethanol producers will experience roughly $8 billion in losses this year due to the pandemic's impact on world fuel markets. The study, conducted by economists from the University of Florida and Arizona State University, was published recently in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Industrial Organization. The estimated economic loss grows to a range of $7.9 to $8.6 billion when unemployment effects are included. The study acknowledges that those estimates likely "understate the cost of COVID-19" to the ethanol industry because the impact of the pandemic on co-product output, demand and prices is not included. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says the new study confirms the findings of an RFA analysis published in July, which found pandemic-related losses could be $7 billion or more in 2020. According to RFA, the study also underscores the importance of ensuring ethanol producers are not again left out of any stimulus package that may move forward in the weeks ahead.

Study: COVID-19 caused $8 billion loss for ethanol producers

FMI, the Food Industry Association, recently released a special mid-year report on meat sales in grocery stores. The report takes a fresh look at what was happening in the meat industry from the shopper’s perspective amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

As the pandemic hit the U.S. in March, shoppers quickly started stocking up on all types of food products. Meat department sales almost doubled in the first week of the pandemic, compared to the same week in 2019. 

While many were focused on filling their refrigerators and freezers with their purchases, consumers were also cooking more meals as home-prepared meals with meat specifically increased to 4.6 per week from 3.9 last year. 

The surge in demand and the impact of COVID-19 on meat suppliers resulted in a significant tightening of supply and some resulting meat inflation, as 91 percent of shoppers experienced out-of-stocks. 

However, FMI reports the meat department has persevered. Most shoppers continue to see meat as a good source of protein and nutrients, and many continue to believe meat belongs in a balanced diet.

FMI, the Food Industry Association, recently released a special mid-year report on meat sales in grocery stores. The report takes a fresh look at what was happening in the meat industry from the shopper’s perspective amid the coronavirus pandemic. As the pandemic hit the U.S. in March, shoppers quickly started stocking up on all types of food products. Meat department sales almost doubled in the first week of the pandemic, compared to the same week in 2019. While many were focused on filling their refrigerators and freezers with their purchases, consumers were also cooking more meals as home-prepared meals with meat specifically increased to 4.6 per week from 3.9 last year. The surge in demand and the impact of COVID-19 on meat suppliers resulted in a significant tightening of supply and some resulting meat inflation, as 91 percent of shoppers experienced out-of-stocks. However, FMI reports the meat department has persevered. Most shoppers continue to see meat as a good source of protein and nutrients, and many continue to believe meat belongs in a balanced diet.

FMI special midyear report outlines increased grocery purchases

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday that more than 100 million food boxes have been distributed through the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. Perdue stated, “It is incredible to think that in a little more than five months, this food box program has gone from an idea to a reality that has provided more than 100 million boxes of nutritious foods.” 

Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture announced it had entered into contracts with 50 entities for the third round of food box deliveries, including contracts to purchase up to $1 billion authorized by President Donald Trump. 

USDA is purchasing combination boxes in the third round of purchases to ensure all recipient organizations have access to fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk, and meat products. 

Coverage in this round of the program allocates food boxes to states based on the state's internal need to provide coverage to entities in every county in the country.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday that more than 100 million food boxes have been distributed through the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. Perdue stated, “It is incredible to think that in a little more than five months, this food box program has gone from an idea to a reality that has provided more than 100 million boxes of nutritious foods.” Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture announced it had entered into contracts with 50 entities for the third round of food box deliveries, including contracts to purchase up to $1 billion authorized by President Donald Trump. USDA is purchasing combination boxes in the third round of purchases to ensure all recipient organizations have access to fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk, and meat products. Coverage in this round of the program allocates food boxes to states based on the state's internal need to provide coverage to entities in every county in the country.

Farmers to families food box program surpasses 100 million boxes delivered

The Department of Agriculture says more than 90 percent of U.S. corn, cotton and soybeans are produced using genetically engineered seeds. Through an annual report on GE planted crops, USDA’s Economic Research Service says most of these GE seeds are herbicide-tolerant, insect-resistant, or both, known as stacked traits. 

The share of U.S. soybean acres planted with herbicide-tolerant seeds rose from seven percent in 1996 to 68 percent in 2001, before plateauing at 94 percent in 2014. 

Insect-resistant soybeans are not yet commercially available. Adoption rates for herbicide-tolerant corn grew relatively slowly at first, but then plateaued at 89 percent in 2014. The share of insect-resistant corn acreage grew from approximately eight percent in 1997 to 82 percent in 2020. 

USDA says increases in adoption rates for insect-resistant corn may be due to the commercial introduction of new varieties resistant to the corn rootworm and the corn earworm. Meanwhile, herbicide-resistant cotton acres in 2019 reached 95 percent, and insect-resistant cotton was 88 percent of total planted acres.

The Department of Agriculture says more than 90 percent of U.S. corn, cotton and soybeans are produced using genetically engineered seeds. Through an annual report on GE planted crops, USDA’s Economic Research Service says most of these GE seeds are herbicide-tolerant, insect-resistant, or both, known as stacked traits. The share of U.S. soybean acres planted with herbicide-tolerant seeds rose from seven percent in 1996 to 68 percent in 2001, before plateauing at 94 percent in 2014. Insect-resistant soybeans are not yet commercially available. Adoption rates for herbicide-tolerant corn grew relatively slowly at first, but then plateaued at 89 percent in 2014. The share of insect-resistant corn acreage grew from approximately eight percent in 1997 to 82 percent in 2020. USDA says increases in adoption rates for insect-resistant corn may be due to the commercial introduction of new varieties resistant to the corn rootworm and the corn earworm. Meanwhile, herbicide-resistant cotton acres in 2019 reached 95 percent, and insect-resistant cotton was 88 percent of total planted acres.

USDA releases annual report showing GMO planted acres

Beijing has asked frozen food importers to not import products from counties with severe coronavirus. The Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau said in a statement issued to import companies, “Customs and local governments have repeatedly detected the coronavirus in imported cold chain food, proving it risks contamination,” according to Reuters. 

The Bureau urged importers to “proactively avoid importing cold chain food from areas heavily hit by the coronavirus,” while also asking importers to improve warning and reporting mechanisms related to testing products for the virus. 

This month, China suspended seafood imports from producers in Brazil, Indonesia and Russia for a week or more, because of coronavirus contamination. Earlier this summer, China also halted imports from a U.S. Tyson Foods plant. 

The U.S Centers for Disease Control and other world health organizations say the risk of contracting coronavirus from food is low. However, China has reportedly stamped out much of the virus, and is on high alert for any possible re-contamination.

Beijing has asked frozen food importers to not import products from counties with severe coronavirus. The Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau said in a statement issued to import companies, “Customs and local governments have repeatedly detected the coronavirus in imported cold chain food, proving it risks contamination,” according to Reuters. The Bureau urged importers to “proactively avoid importing cold chain food from areas heavily hit by the coronavirus,” while also asking importers to improve warning and reporting mechanisms related to testing products for the virus. This month, China suspended seafood imports from producers in Brazil, Indonesia and Russia for a week or more, because of coronavirus contamination. Earlier this summer, China also halted imports from a U.S. Tyson Foods plant. The U.S Centers for Disease Control and other world health organizations say the risk of contracting coronavirus from food is low. However, China has reportedly stamped out much of the virus, and is on high alert for any possible re-contamination.

Beijing asks frozen food importers to shun countries with severe coronavirus

The United States and the United Kingdom wrapped up the fourth round of trade talks this month, with another round planned for mid-October. The UK Department of International Trade says, "Significant progress has been achieved since launching negotiations in May 2020, and most chapter areas are now in the advanced stages of talks." 

Chief Ag Negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative's Office, Gregg Doud, spoke Monday during an Agri-Pulse and Kansas City Agribusiness Council event. 

Doud told attendees, "I'm confident here that we are going to get an opportunity to engage with them and work on these issues," the issues being tariffs, biotech and market opportunity. Doud noted tariffs on U.S. products will be high when the UK leaves the European Union, upwards of 25 percent. 

However, for beef, pork and poultry, the UK imports $4.5 billion of meat from the European Union. Doud says, “if we can get things right, I think we will have a fair shot at that,” giving U.S. meat producers a new market.

The United States and the United Kingdom wrapped up the fourth round of trade talks this month, with another round planned for mid-October. The UK Department of International Trade says, "Significant progress has been achieved since launching negotiations in May 2020, and most chapter areas are now in the advanced stages of talks." Chief Ag Negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative's Office, Gregg Doud, spoke Monday during an Agri-Pulse and Kansas City Agribusiness Council event. Doud told attendees, "I'm confident here that we are going to get an opportunity to engage with them and work on these issues," the issues being tariffs, biotech and market opportunity. Doud noted tariffs on U.S. products will be high when the UK leaves the European Union, upwards of 25 percent. However, for beef, pork and poultry, the UK imports $4.5 billion of meat from the European Union. Doud says, “if we can get things right, I think we will have a fair shot at that,” giving U.S. meat producers a new market.

US-UK trade talks progressing

Higher-octane fuels like mid-and-high-level ethanol blends are mutually beneficial for drivers, farmers, and the environment. Because of that, Representative Cheri Bustos introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act, which would increase gasoline octane to a minimum standard of 98 Research Octane Number (RON) through low-carbon renewable fuels. 

The National Farmers Union, a long-time supporter of higher blends of ethanol, is pleased with the bill’s introduction. “There are so many reasons to widely adopt low-carbon, high octane ethanol blends,” says President Rob Larew. “They significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency, which reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” 

He also says the new standards would create new markets for family farmers, supporters of rural economic growth, and offer a cost-effective fuel for American drivers. Growth Energy is also pleased with the introduction, saying it will unleash higher-octane, lower-carbon fuels that offer drivers better mileage and fewer emissions. 

“There has never been a more urgent need to adopt higher-octane, low carbon ethanol blends into America’s fuel supply, as they are key to achieving clean, healthy air,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.

Higher-octane fuels like mid-and-high-level ethanol blends are mutually beneficial for drivers, farmers, and the environment. Because of that, Representative Cheri Bustos introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act, which would increase gasoline octane to a minimum standard of 98 Research Octane Number (RON) through low-carbon renewable fuels. The National Farmers Union, a long-time supporter of higher blends of ethanol, is pleased with the bill’s introduction. “There are so many reasons to widely adopt low-carbon, high octane ethanol blends,” says President Rob Larew. “They significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency, which reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” He also says the new standards would create new markets for family farmers, supporters of rural economic growth, and offer a cost-effective fuel for American drivers. Growth Energy is also pleased with the introduction, saying it will unleash higher-octane, lower-carbon fuels that offer drivers better mileage and fewer emissions. “There has never been a more urgent need to adopt higher-octane, low carbon ethanol blends into America’s fuel supply, as they are key to achieving clean, healthy air,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.

Next Generation Fuels Act introduced in house

Beijing wants the rest of the world to know that the most-populated country in the world is not looking at a grain shortage. China’s Ag Minister is blaming speculators for rapidly rising corn prices which are stoking fears about a possible shortage in the Asian nation. 

Corn prices in China recently hit an eight-year high following events like typhoons and flooding that damaged the nation’s Corn Belt. The South China Morning Post says it saw firsthand that large areas of cropland were flattened. As a result, local farmers are concerned about a steep drop in what they can produce. 

Chinese corn imports, used mainly in animal feed, hit the highest level in almost 30 years during the first eight months of 2020, increasing anxiety about a possible domestic supply gap. However, the nation’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs says the surging prices were caused by “market speculation and irrational hoarding.” 

He says the country has ample supplies of corn and is set to harvest another bumper crop in the autumn, despite the impact of natural disasters in two provinces that account for 25 percent of China’s corn production. “New corn will enter the market soon and the supply will further increase,” he says. “Corn prices are already starting to stabilize.”

Beijing wants the rest of the world to know that the most-populated country in the world is not looking at a grain shortage. China’s Ag Minister is blaming speculators for rapidly rising corn prices which are stoking fears about a possible shortage in the Asian nation. Corn prices in China recently hit an eight-year high following events like typhoons and flooding that damaged the nation’s Corn Belt. The South China Morning Post says it saw firsthand that large areas of cropland were flattened. As a result, local farmers are concerned about a steep drop in what they can produce. Chinese corn imports, used mainly in animal feed, hit the highest level in almost 30 years during the first eight months of 2020, increasing anxiety about a possible domestic supply gap. However, the nation’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs says the surging prices were caused by “market speculation and irrational hoarding.” He says the country has ample supplies of corn and is set to harvest another bumper crop in the autumn, despite the impact of natural disasters in two provinces that account for 25 percent of China’s corn production. “New corn will enter the market soon and the supply will further increase,” he says. “Corn prices are already starting to stabilize.”

China officials downplay fears of grain shortages

Growth Energy is happy about the inclusion of the Renewable Fuel Standard Integrity Act contained in the clean energy legislation that passed the House last Thursday. The act was authored by House Ag Committee Chair Collin Peterson, along with representatives from other ag states like South Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas. 

It is designed to bring much-needed transparency to the Environmental Protection Agency’s secretive small refinery exemption process and ensure refiners meet biofuel blending requirements. “After years of EPA mismanagement, the legislation will finally give farmers and biofuel producers a long-overdue peek at EPA’s secretive and destructive process,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

The National Biodiesel Board is also pleased that the act is included in the House clean energy bill. The provision would set a June 1 deadline for annual small refinery exemption petitions, ensuring they’ll be accounted for in the RFS calculations. Also, the bill would require public disclosure of the volumes of biofuels potentially impacted by the petition, along with the name of the petitioner. 

Kurt Kovarik, NBB VP of Federal Affairs, says, “This is a commonsense step to ensure that RFS biomass-based diesel volumes are fully met and prevent a recurrence of the demand destruction for biodiesel that we’ve seen for the last seven years.”

Growth Energy is happy about the inclusion of the Renewable Fuel Standard Integrity Act contained in the clean energy legislation that passed the House last Thursday. The act was authored by House Ag Committee Chair Collin Peterson, along with representatives from other ag states like South Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, and Kansas. It is designed to bring much-needed transparency to the Environmental Protection Agency’s secretive small refinery exemption process and ensure refiners meet biofuel blending requirements. “After years of EPA mismanagement, the legislation will finally give farmers and biofuel producers a long-overdue peek at EPA’s secretive and destructive process,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. The National Biodiesel Board is also pleased that the act is included in the House clean energy bill. The provision would set a June 1 deadline for annual small refinery exemption petitions, ensuring they’ll be accounted for in the RFS calculations. Also, the bill would require public disclosure of the volumes of biofuels potentially impacted by the petition, along with the name of the petitioner. Kurt Kovarik, NBB VP of Federal Affairs, says, “This is a commonsense step to ensure that RFS biomass-based diesel volumes are fully met and prevent a recurrence of the demand destruction for biodiesel that we’ve seen for the last seven years.”

Biofuel groups applaud house passage of RFS Integrity Act

A bill providing support to state and county fairs is gaining momentum this week. Senator Doug Jones, an Alabama Democrat, introduced companion legislation to a House bill that would establish funds to offset revenue losses for state and county fairs. 

The Protecting Fairs During Coronavirus Act, introduced in the House by Representative Josh Harder, a California Democrat, would establish a $5 billion federal grant program for state and county fairs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fund would offset fair revenue losses during the Coronavirus pandemic and would be available for both 2020 as well as 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;States could apply for aid from the Department of Agriculture and then distribute the funds to fairs in their state. 

Senator Jones says, “State and county fairs are not just an important part of our social fabric, they’re also a key part of the agriculture business.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Harder stated, “Working together, we will continue pushing to get our fairs the relief they need to weather this storm.”

A bill providing support to state and county fairs is gaining momentum this week. Senator Doug Jones, an Alabama Democrat, introduced companion legislation to a House bill that would establish funds to offset revenue losses for state and county fairs. The Protecting Fairs During Coronavirus Act, introduced in the House by Representative Josh Harder, a California Democrat, would establish a $5 billion federal grant program for state and county fairs.&nbsp;&nbsp;The fund would offset fair revenue losses during the Coronavirus pandemic and would be available for both 2020 as well as 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;States could apply for aid from the Department of Agriculture and then distribute the funds to fairs in their state. Senator Jones says, “State and county fairs are not just an important part of our social fabric, they’re also a key part of the agriculture business.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Harder stated, “Working together, we will continue pushing to get our fairs the relief they need to weather this storm.”

State and county fair support gaining momentum in congress

Lawmakers from Lower Missouri River states this week penned a letter urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide additional funding for navigation projects along the river. The lawmakers say many farmers, industries and small businesses in the Midwest rely on the Missouri River to transport goods. 

High water levels and record flooding in 2019 have prevented the Corps of Engineers from completing repairs on water infrastructure projects, which has led to dangerous accidents that have significantly disrupted commerce on the river. 

The lawmakers write, “there is a critically dire situation related to navigation challenges in several areas along the Missouri River where serious barge traffic accidents have occurred.” The Corps’ Kansas City District has received $20 million in emergency supplemental funds to conduct work along the navigation channel. 

However, the lawmakers estimate the need at $200 million. The Corps estimates that high water in the last three years damaged 50-75 percent of the 7,000 river training structures that make up the Bank Stabilization and Navigation Project.

Lawmakers from Lower Missouri River states this week penned a letter urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide additional funding for navigation projects along the river. The lawmakers say many farmers, industries and small businesses in the Midwest rely on the Missouri River to transport goods. High water levels and record flooding in 2019 have prevented the Corps of Engineers from completing repairs on water infrastructure projects, which has led to dangerous accidents that have significantly disrupted commerce on the river. The lawmakers write, “there is a critically dire situation related to navigation challenges in several areas along the Missouri River where serious barge traffic accidents have occurred.” The Corps’ Kansas City District has received $20 million in emergency supplemental funds to conduct work along the navigation channel. However, the lawmakers estimate the need at $200 million. The Corps estimates that high water in the last three years damaged 50-75 percent of the 7,000 river training structures that make up the Bank Stabilization and Navigation Project.

Midwest lawmakers seek funding for Missouri River navigation

A new report unveiled by the American Farm Bureau Federation provides an in-depth examination of the causes and price implications resulting from extreme market volatility in the cattle industry. It also sets the stage to explore policy solutions. 

The Cattle Market Working Group, comprised of ten state Farm Bureau presidents, spent more than two months investigating factors that led to market disruptions following the Holcomb packing plant fire and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says of the report, “We must work toward a more stable, resilient food supply chain that can better endure unforeseen challenges.” The report is designed to equip state and county Farm Bureau organizations with deep insight and policy considerations as Farm Bureau leaders debate policy recommendations for 2021. 

Key topics of the report include mandatory minimum negotiated trade, risk management and education, small capacity meatpacking, and strengthening the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration’s ability to enforce market rules.

A new report unveiled by the American Farm Bureau Federation provides an in-depth examination of the causes and price implications resulting from extreme market volatility in the cattle industry. It also sets the stage to explore policy solutions. The Cattle Market Working Group, comprised of ten state Farm Bureau presidents, spent more than two months investigating factors that led to market disruptions following the Holcomb packing plant fire and the COVID-19 pandemic. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says of the report, “We must work toward a more stable, resilient food supply chain that can better endure unforeseen challenges.” The report is designed to equip state and county Farm Bureau organizations with deep insight and policy considerations as Farm Bureau leaders debate policy recommendations for 2021. Key topics of the report include mandatory minimum negotiated trade, risk management and education, small capacity meatpacking, and strengthening the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration’s ability to enforce market rules.

New report examines cattle market issues and solutions

A coalition of farm and ethanol groups want the Environmental Protection Agency to take the “next step” in denying waivers under the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

While the groups say EPA’s recent announcement that it has denied 54 petitions for “gap year” small refinery exemptions under the RFS was indeed a big step forward, “there is more work to be done to fully restore integrity to the RFS.” There are 50 exemption petitions still awaiting a decision, and EPA still has not released the 2021 RVO proposal. 

The Renewable Fuels Association, American Coalition for Ethanol, National Corn Growers Association and National Farmers Union worked together and won a unanimous federal court decision in January that they say should have put an end to EPA’s abuse of the refinery exemption program. 

There are 17 gap-year petitions remaining and 33 pending exemption requests for 2019 and 2020.&nbsp; In a press conference Wednesday, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper stated, “EPA needs to reject those the second they come through the front door,” from the Department of Energy.

A coalition of farm and ethanol groups want the Environmental Protection Agency to take the “next step” in denying waivers under the Renewable Fuel Standard. While the groups say EPA’s recent announcement that it has denied 54 petitions for “gap year” small refinery exemptions under the RFS was indeed a big step forward, “there is more work to be done to fully restore integrity to the RFS.” There are 50 exemption petitions still awaiting a decision, and EPA still has not released the 2021 RVO proposal. The Renewable Fuels Association, American Coalition for Ethanol, National Corn Growers Association and National Farmers Union worked together and won a unanimous federal court decision in January that they say should have put an end to EPA’s abuse of the refinery exemption program. There are 17 gap-year petitions remaining and 33 pending exemption requests for 2019 and 2020.&nbsp; In a press conference Wednesday, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper stated, “EPA needs to reject those the second they come through the front door,” from the Department of Energy.

Ethanol and farm groups call on EPA to reject remaining waivers

The decision by House lawmakers to include Commodity Credit Corporation funding in the continuing resolution demonstrates their support for America’s farmers, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The stopgap measure provides nearly $8 billion for nutrition assistance programs, replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation, and stipulate some Congressional oversight of spending through CCC. 

Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “While we were disappointed it recently became a political flashpoint, we are pleased lawmakers on both sides of the aisle recognize that these funds help to sustain conservation programs and stock America’s pantry.” 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew stated, “We are relieved that the House has come to an agreement.” The agreement, passed by the House 359-57, keeps the federal government funded through December 11. 

Republicans and some House Democrats representing rural areas were critical of the original House proposal that didn’t include CCC funding. Democrats were seeking accountability in the program, referring to a White House proposal that would have used CCC funds for oil companies.

The decision by House lawmakers to include Commodity Credit Corporation funding in the continuing resolution demonstrates their support for America’s farmers, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The stopgap measure provides nearly $8 billion for nutrition assistance programs, replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation, and stipulate some Congressional oversight of spending through CCC. Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “While we were disappointed it recently became a political flashpoint, we are pleased lawmakers on both sides of the aisle recognize that these funds help to sustain conservation programs and stock America’s pantry.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew stated, “We are relieved that the House has come to an agreement.” The agreement, passed by the House 359-57, keeps the federal government funded through December 11. Republicans and some House Democrats representing rural areas were critical of the original House proposal that didn’t include CCC funding. Democrats were seeking accountability in the program, referring to a White House proposal that would have used CCC funds for oil companies.

Farm groups applaud CCC agreement

The Cattle Market Transparency Act introduced this week seeks to restore transparency and accountability in the cattle market. Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, introduced the bill. 

Fischer says, “The past few years have been very difficult for producers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Fischer noted the Tyson Foods plant fire in Kansas, and supply chain challenges due to COVID-19. The bill would establish regional mandatory minimum thresholds of negotiated cash trades to enable price discovery in cattle marketing regions. 

It requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish regionally sufficient levels of negotiated cash trade, seek public comment on those levels, then implement. The legislation also requires USDA to create and maintain a library of marketing contracts between packers and producers, and require packers to supply the information to USDA.&nbsp; 

The bill also would mandate that a packer report the number of cattle scheduled to be delivered for slaughter each day for the next 14 days. This requirement already exists for the swine industry.

The Cattle Market Transparency Act introduced this week seeks to restore transparency and accountability in the cattle market. Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, introduced the bill. Fischer says, “The past few years have been very difficult for producers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Fischer noted the Tyson Foods plant fire in Kansas, and supply chain challenges due to COVID-19. The bill would establish regional mandatory minimum thresholds of negotiated cash trades to enable price discovery in cattle marketing regions. It requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish regionally sufficient levels of negotiated cash trade, seek public comment on those levels, then implement. The legislation also requires USDA to create and maintain a library of marketing contracts between packers and producers, and require packers to supply the information to USDA.&nbsp; The bill also would mandate that a packer report the number of cattle scheduled to be delivered for slaughter each day for the next 14 days. This requirement already exists for the swine industry.

Cattle market transparency act introduced

The Joe Biden presidential campaign used a virtual news conference to blame President Donald Trump for the ongoing ethanol industry crisis.

Ethanol industry officials have been critical of the Trump administration for giving oil companies dozens of renewable fuel standard waivers, reducing the amount of ethanol refined into the nation's fuel supply.

Jim Nichols, owner of a 500-acre corn and soybean farm in Minnesota, stated, “Corn farmers are in terrible shape due to President Trump’s betrayal,” adding, “we need change now.” 

Chris Gibbs, a farmer from West-central Ohio and president of the Rural America 2020 board of directors, stated, “Rather than supporting corn farmers and making E15 ‘America’s Fuel,’ Trump has consistently undercut this industry and hurt our farmers."

 Rural America 2020 is a nonprofit that advocates for policies that benefit agriculture and rural America. Last week, Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency announced it would deny petitions for small refinery exemptions for past compliance years, the so-called “gap-filling” petitions for the 2011-18 compliance years.

The Joe Biden presidential campaign used a virtual news conference to blame President Donald Trump for the ongoing ethanol industry crisis.Ethanol industry officials have been critical of the Trump administration for giving oil companies dozens of renewable fuel standard waivers, reducing the amount of ethanol refined into the nation's fuel supply.Jim Nichols, owner of a 500-acre corn and soybean farm in Minnesota, stated, “Corn farmers are in terrible shape due to President Trump’s betrayal,” adding, “we need change now.” Chris Gibbs, a farmer from West-central Ohio and president of the Rural America 2020 board of directors, stated, “Rather than supporting corn farmers and making E15 ‘America’s Fuel,’ Trump has consistently undercut this industry and hurt our farmers." Rural America 2020 is a nonprofit that advocates for policies that benefit agriculture and rural America. Last week, Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency announced it would deny petitions for small refinery exemptions for past compliance years, the so-called “gap-filling” petitions for the 2011-18 compliance years.

Biden campaign blames Trump for ethanol crisis

Multiple issues along the Lower Missouri River's navigation channel are under repair by the Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps’ Kansas City District is addressing priority areas of concern and the damages to river structures that have accumulated during nearly three years of high water. 

An extended period of high water on the Lower Missouri River, including devastating flooding in 2019, damaged 50-75 percent of the 7,000 river training structures that make up the Bank Stabilization and Navigation Project. The damage caused navigation restrictions as the river returned to normal levels this summer. 

A District official says USACE is addressing the restrictions and restoring the channel to its nine-foot depth. However, officials say there is insufficient funding to repair all the structures damaged by the 2019 flood. 

Lack of funding is impacting the ability to make the repairs, and officials say time will be necessary for the structures to fully scour the channel to return it to its authorized nine-foot by 300-foot condition.

Multiple issues along the Lower Missouri River's navigation channel are under repair by the Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps’ Kansas City District is addressing priority areas of concern and the damages to river structures that have accumulated during nearly three years of high water. An extended period of high water on the Lower Missouri River, including devastating flooding in 2019, damaged 50-75 percent of the 7,000 river training structures that make up the Bank Stabilization and Navigation Project. The damage caused navigation restrictions as the river returned to normal levels this summer. A District official says USACE is addressing the restrictions and restoring the channel to its nine-foot depth. However, officials say there is insufficient funding to repair all the structures damaged by the 2019 flood. Lack of funding is impacting the ability to make the repairs, and officials say time will be necessary for the structures to fully scour the channel to return it to its authorized nine-foot by 300-foot condition.

Army Corps repairing Missouri river navigation channel

The Department of Agriculture is partnering with nine Midwest community colleges to support hands-on student learning about conservation and to foster conservation-minded farmers and ranchers. 

On Monday, Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement representatives and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service signed a memorandum of understanding. Through the memo, they agree to enhance and accelerate training and adoption of technologies and best practices for improved agricultural productivity and natural resources stewardship. 

The agreement aims to reach not only agriculture students but also the broader community, through events such as field days. NRCS and the member institutions are developing local plans to address regional and statewide challenges and to support student internships and other training opportunities. 

All member institutions have college farms where they can implement conservation practices to educate and inform students and producers. Community colleges in the program include institutions in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Ohio. More information about the partnership is available at nrcs.usda.gov.

The Department of Agriculture is partnering with nine Midwest community colleges to support hands-on student learning about conservation and to foster conservation-minded farmers and ranchers. On Monday, Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement representatives and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service signed a memorandum of understanding. Through the memo, they agree to enhance and accelerate training and adoption of technologies and best practices for improved agricultural productivity and natural resources stewardship. The agreement aims to reach not only agriculture students but also the broader community, through events such as field days. NRCS and the member institutions are developing local plans to address regional and statewide challenges and to support student internships and other training opportunities. All member institutions have college farms where they can implement conservation practices to educate and inform students and producers. Community colleges in the program include institutions in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Ohio. More information about the partnership is available at nrcs.usda.gov.

USDA partners with Midwest Community Colleges to teach Agricultural Conservation

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota overall approves the second Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, but says more sectors need help. 

Peterson responded to the Department of Agriculture’s CFAP2 announcement stating, “There are some good things in this second CFAP plan,” but adds, “I still want to see help for the ethanol industry that has been hurt by the drop in fuel demand." 

Peterson also wants the program to include textile mills that are helping to create COVID-19 medical supplies and more support for pork and poultry producers that had to depopulate due to plant closures and support for contract growers who have faced a loss of income. 

Of note, Peterson welcomed actions in the CFAP2, including simplifying the application process for specialty crop growers and making sure livestock producers, like turkey growers have what they need. Peterson also applauded expansion of the program to all classes of wheat, a request by industry groups.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota overall approves the second Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, but says more sectors need help. Peterson responded to the Department of Agriculture’s CFAP2 announcement stating, “There are some good things in this second CFAP plan,” but adds, “I still want to see help for the ethanol industry that has been hurt by the drop in fuel demand." Peterson also wants the program to include textile mills that are helping to create COVID-19 medical supplies and more support for pork and poultry producers that had to depopulate due to plant closures and support for contract growers who have faced a loss of income. Of note, Peterson welcomed actions in the CFAP2, including simplifying the application process for specialty crop growers and making sure livestock producers, like turkey growers have what they need. Peterson also applauded expansion of the program to all classes of wheat, a request by industry groups.

Peterson weighs in on second CFAP program from USDA

The signup period for CFAP2, the additional Coronavirus Food Assistance Program relief, is underway. The signup period opened Monday and extends through December 11. 

Producers interested in signing up can do so at Farm Service Agency county offices. A Market Intel analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation details the CFAP2 provisions, which provides nearly $14 billion in relief to farmers and ranchers suffering losses or increased cost after April 15, stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Of the $14 billion in CFAP2 support, USDA's cost-benefit analysis estimates corn producers will receive $3.5 billion, or 25 percent of the total CFAP2 resources. Following corn, beef cattle producers are expected to receive $2.8 billion, or 20 percent of CFAP2 funding. Dairy farmers are expected to receive $2 billion, or 14 percent of the available support. 

Hog producers are estimated to receive $1.7 billion or 12 percent of CFAP2. Soybean producers are estimated to receive $1.4 billion, or ten percent of the funds. Wheat, flat-rate crops, eggs and other commodities are expected to receive $2.5 billion, or 18 percent.

The signup period for CFAP2, the additional Coronavirus Food Assistance Program relief, is underway. The signup period opened Monday and extends through December 11. Producers interested in signing up can do so at Farm Service Agency county offices. A Market Intel analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation details the CFAP2 provisions, which provides nearly $14 billion in relief to farmers and ranchers suffering losses or increased cost after April 15, stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the $14 billion in CFAP2 support, USDA's cost-benefit analysis estimates corn producers will receive $3.5 billion, or 25 percent of the total CFAP2 resources. Following corn, beef cattle producers are expected to receive $2.8 billion, or 20 percent of CFAP2 funding. Dairy farmers are expected to receive $2 billion, or 14 percent of the available support. Hog producers are estimated to receive $1.7 billion or 12 percent of CFAP2. Soybean producers are estimated to receive $1.4 billion, or ten percent of the funds. Wheat, flat-rate crops, eggs and other commodities are expected to receive $2.5 billion, or 18 percent.

CFAP2 signup period underway

President Trump and Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue announced an additional $14 billion in aid for agricultural producers who continue to face market disruption and costs associated with COVID-19. The producer signup for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) at the USDA Farm Service Agency’s county offices starts on September 21 and runs through December 11. 

In a news release, the Ag Secretary says, “America’s agriculture communities are resilient, but still face many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” Perdue notes that the agency “listened to feedback” from farmers, ranchers, and agricultural organizations about the impact of the pandemic on the nation’s farms and ranches, and they developed a program to better meet the needs of those impacted. 

USDA will use the funds being made available from the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to support row crops, livestock, specialty crops, dairy, aquaculture, and many additional commodities. 

The Hagstrom Report says Senate Ag Appropriations Subcommittee Chair John Hoeven of North Dakota said he’d talked about the program this week with Perdue and Budget Director Russ Vought, who had to approve the assistance. “Our producers don’t quit,” Hoeven says, “and Congress must match their resolve with measures to help them through a difficult time.”

President Trump and Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue announced an additional $14 billion in aid for agricultural producers who continue to face market disruption and costs associated with COVID-19. The producer signup for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) at the USDA Farm Service Agency’s county offices starts on September 21 and runs through December 11. In a news release, the Ag Secretary says, “America’s agriculture communities are resilient, but still face many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” Perdue notes that the agency “listened to feedback” from farmers, ranchers, and agricultural organizations about the impact of the pandemic on the nation’s farms and ranches, and they developed a program to better meet the needs of those impacted. USDA will use the funds being made available from the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to support row crops, livestock, specialty crops, dairy, aquaculture, and many additional commodities. The Hagstrom Report says Senate Ag Appropriations Subcommittee Chair John Hoeven of North Dakota said he’d talked about the program this week with Perdue and Budget Director Russ Vought, who had to approve the assistance. “Our producers don’t quit,” Hoeven says, “and Congress must match their resolve with measures to help them through a difficult time.”