Chuck Grassley, Senate Finance Committee Chair, says he and fellow Iowa Senator Joni Ernst will push for ethanol plant assistance as Congress begins developing another COVID-19 aid package this week. 

Grassley says he visited Iowa counties over the past two weeks while the Senate was in recess, noting that he heard plenty of people asking for ethanol assistance because the price of corn is still low. “Ernst and I are going to try to get something that would subsidize feedstock for the ethanol industry,” Grassley says. 

“What would make our appeal credible will be the oil industry getting help or a recognition that the oil industry got help through the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.” However, Grassley says the best thing to happen to the ethanol industry in the long-term is for people to start driving again as the economy picks up. 

“We’re seeing a little shoot up in the production of ethanol, but it will be a slow turnaround,” he adds. Grassley also says he believes there will be more aid to agriculture in the coronavirus bill, but Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is determined to keep the cost of the next aid package under $1 trillion.

Chuck Grassley, Senate Finance Committee Chair, says he and fellow Iowa Senator Joni Ernst will push for ethanol plant assistance as Congress begins developing another COVID-19 aid package this week. Grassley says he visited Iowa counties over the past two weeks while the Senate was in recess, noting that he heard plenty of people asking for ethanol assistance because the price of corn is still low. “Ernst and I are going to try to get something that would subsidize feedstock for the ethanol industry,” Grassley says. “What would make our appeal credible will be the oil industry getting help or a recognition that the oil industry got help through the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.” However, Grassley says the best thing to happen to the ethanol industry in the long-term is for people to start driving again as the economy picks up. “We’re seeing a little shoot up in the production of ethanol, but it will be a slow turnaround,” he adds. Grassley also says he believes there will be more aid to agriculture in the coronavirus bill, but Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is determined to keep the cost of the next aid package under $1 trillion.

Iowa senators pushing for ethanol aid in COVID aid package

Trade reports released by USDA last week show that China is picking up the pace of buying U.S. ag commodities, making both old-crop and new-crop purchases. 

Chinese buyers are purchasing a lot of U.S. corn, soybeans, and wheat in their recent run on commodities during the week of July 3-9. USDA reported 768,300 metric tons of old-crop corn sales, as well as 600,000 tons of new-crop sales. 

Additional corn exports during the week were 119,700 tons. The USDA trade report also showed that new export sales of soybeans were for 552,000 tons, 390,000 of which will be delivered during the next marketing year that starts on September 1st. 

The export sales report says new soybean crop sales came in at 389,000 tons, and exports were almost 228,000 tons. Chinese buyers also purchased more than 323,000 tons of wheat during the same week. That pushed the total sales up to the highest point for 2020-2021. 

The USDA also says weekly exports totaled 113,700 tons. Net sales of cotton, rice, and barley were all lower than the previous week. Net sorghum sales were up 35 percent from the prior week.

Trade reports released by USDA last week show that China is picking up the pace of buying U.S. ag commodities, making both old-crop and new-crop purchases. Chinese buyers are purchasing a lot of U.S. corn, soybeans, and wheat in their recent run on commodities during the week of July 3-9. USDA reported 768,300 metric tons of old-crop corn sales, as well as 600,000 tons of new-crop sales. Additional corn exports during the week were 119,700 tons. The USDA trade report also showed that new export sales of soybeans were for 552,000 tons, 390,000 of which will be delivered during the next marketing year that starts on September 1st. The export sales report says new soybean crop sales came in at 389,000 tons, and exports were almost 228,000 tons. Chinese buyers also purchased more than 323,000 tons of wheat during the same week. That pushed the total sales up to the highest point for 2020-2021. The USDA also says weekly exports totaled 113,700 tons. Net sales of cotton, rice, and barley were all lower than the previous week. Net sorghum sales were up 35 percent from the prior week.

USDA report says China continues to buy U.S. ag products

The Department of Agriculture announced the delivery of more than 28.5 million meals to low-income kids in rural America through the Meals to You partnership. 

The program delivers meals to the doorsteps of low-income kids in rural communities across America during the COVID-19 health crisis. 

While visiting McLane Global, one of USDA’s partners in the initiative, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue stated, “We’ve heard from families across America who have told us that in these difficult times, the program has been a home run for feeding hungry kids.” 

Meals to You is a public-private partnership between USDA, the Baylor University Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, McLane Global, and PepsiCo. It began as a summer pilot project in 2019 but has been successfully leveraged as an emergency program to address pandemic-related nutrition needs in rural areas. 

Initially, Meals to You aimed to serve one million meals to children in rural areas. As of July 11, 2020, 28.5 million meals have been delivered to 268,277 children across the U.S.&nbsp;

The Department of Agriculture announced the delivery of more than 28.5 million meals to low-income kids in rural America through the Meals to You partnership. The program delivers meals to the doorsteps of low-income kids in rural communities across America during the COVID-19 health crisis. While visiting McLane Global, one of USDA’s partners in the initiative, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue stated, “We’ve heard from families across America who have told us that in these difficult times, the program has been a home run for feeding hungry kids.” Meals to You is a public-private partnership between USDA, the Baylor University Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, McLane Global, and PepsiCo. It began as a summer pilot project in 2019 but has been successfully leveraged as an emergency program to address pandemic-related nutrition needs in rural areas. Initially, Meals to You aimed to serve one million meals to children in rural areas. As of July 11, 2020, 28.5 million meals have been delivered to 268,277 children across the U.S.&nbsp;

USDA Meals to You Program Approaching 30 Million Served

The Renewable Fuels Association says the industry has lost more than $3.4 billion in revenue stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. An industry analysis released by the association this week also found that pandemic-related damages in 2020 and 2021 could reach nearly $9 billion. 

The data is based on the latest projections from the Energy Information Administration and Agriculture Policy Research Institute. Between March and June of 2020, the study by RFA found the cumulative decline in ethanol production and consumption exceeded 1.3 billion gallons, and nearly 500 million fewer bushels of corn were used in ethanol production during the period. 

Assuming current market conditions do not deteriorate, total pandemic-related revenue losses for the industry could approach $7 billion in 2020 and $1.8 billion in 2021. 

However, if states adopt additional travel and business restrictions, the losses may be larger and may even surpass the $10 billion estimate from RFA's initial forward-looking analysis released in April.

The Renewable Fuels Association says the industry has lost more than $3.4 billion in revenue stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. An industry analysis released by the association this week also found that pandemic-related damages in 2020 and 2021 could reach nearly $9 billion. The data is based on the latest projections from the Energy Information Administration and Agriculture Policy Research Institute. Between March and June of 2020, the study by RFA found the cumulative decline in ethanol production and consumption exceeded 1.3 billion gallons, and nearly 500 million fewer bushels of corn were used in ethanol production during the period. Assuming current market conditions do not deteriorate, total pandemic-related revenue losses for the industry could approach $7 billion in 2020 and $1.8 billion in 2021. However, if states adopt additional travel and business restrictions, the losses may be larger and may even surpass the $10 billion estimate from RFA's initial forward-looking analysis released in April.

Ethanol industry losses could reach nearly $9 billion

A new global survey shows farmers have once again demonstrated their ability to adapt to new challenges. Kynetec, a global market research firm specializing in animal health and agriculture, released the survey results this week. 

The survey spanned six key countries, the U.S., Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Czech Republic, and included feedback from 873 farmers. The survey provided a mix of positive and negative insights into the impact COVID-19 has had on their lifestyle and livelihood. 

The degree of impact varied between countries with country variation ranging from 41 percent to 67 percent of farmers saying the virus has impacted their personal lives. In the short-term, farmers in most countries lack optimism regarding the current outlook for agriculture and the speed of economic post-lockdown recovery. 

Farmers adapting to the pandemic say planned investments were some of the main challenges across all countries that farmers have faced because of COVID-19.

A new global survey shows farmers have once again demonstrated their ability to adapt to new challenges. Kynetec, a global market research firm specializing in animal health and agriculture, released the survey results this week. The survey spanned six key countries, the U.S., Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Czech Republic, and included feedback from 873 farmers. The survey provided a mix of positive and negative insights into the impact COVID-19 has had on their lifestyle and livelihood. The degree of impact varied between countries with country variation ranging from 41 percent to 67 percent of farmers saying the virus has impacted their personal lives. In the short-term, farmers in most countries lack optimism regarding the current outlook for agriculture and the speed of economic post-lockdown recovery. Farmers adapting to the pandemic say planned investments were some of the main challenges across all countries that farmers have faced because of COVID-19.

Globally, farmers adapting to pandemic challenges

The Department of Agriculture announced a $153 million investment to build and improve critical community facilities to benefit nearly two million rural residents in 23 states. 

USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand says, “Rural America needs safe, modern infrastructure to help residents and businesses achieve greater prosperity and have access to essential services.” 

USDA is investing in 94 projects through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program. The investments can be used to build or upgrade a wide range of rural community facilities such as schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. 

More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. 

Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less. Interested parties should contact their USDA Rural Development state office for information about additional funding, application procedures and eligibility details.

The Department of Agriculture announced a $153 million investment to build and improve critical community facilities to benefit nearly two million rural residents in 23 states. USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand says, “Rural America needs safe, modern infrastructure to help residents and businesses achieve greater prosperity and have access to essential services.” USDA is investing in 94 projects through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program. The investments can be used to build or upgrade a wide range of rural community facilities such as schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less. Interested parties should contact their USDA Rural Development state office for information about additional funding, application procedures and eligibility details.

USDA invests $153 million in rural community facilities

U.S. Representative Sam Graves, introduced the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 this week. Graves says the legislation plays a key role in any water infrastructure project, including flood control, navigation, ports, locks and dams. 

The legislation will facilitate commerce through ports and inland waterways, improve flood control infrastructure, and “help develop flood control plans that actually work.” 

The legislation will give the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers new construction authority for communities facing repetitive flooding events. One of the more significant roadblocks to ensuring a project can be done quickly is getting construction authority expeditiously, and this bill will allow those communities to be protected more quickly, according to Graves. 

The bill also makes an important change in the cost-share for Inland Waterways Trust Fund projects on the Upper Mississippi and Illinois River systems. This change will accelerate the timeframe for funding and completion of projects to modernize outdated locks and dams on these rivers.

U.S. Representative Sam Graves, introduced the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 this week. Graves says the legislation plays a key role in any water infrastructure project, including flood control, navigation, ports, locks and dams. The legislation will facilitate commerce through ports and inland waterways, improve flood control infrastructure, and “help develop flood control plans that actually work.” The legislation will give the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers new construction authority for communities facing repetitive flooding events. One of the more significant roadblocks to ensuring a project can be done quickly is getting construction authority expeditiously, and this bill will allow those communities to be protected more quickly, according to Graves. The bill also makes an important change in the cost-share for Inland Waterways Trust Fund projects on the Upper Mississippi and Illinois River systems. This change will accelerate the timeframe for funding and completion of projects to modernize outdated locks and dams on these rivers.

Graves introduces 2020 Water Resources Development Act

Chinese testing of meat, seafood, and other products for the coronavirus has tripled customs clearance times at some major Chinese ports. Bloomberg says the intensive testing is raising some major concerns that the delays could eventually tangle up global trade flows. 

It normally takes about three days to clear produce through customs, but an official with a supply chain company says it’s now taking up to 10 days. China began testing cold food shipments for the virus last month in a move it says is aimed at protecting the health of the general public. 

The testing has combined with large arrivals of cold-storage food to add to the congestion at some of its biggest ports. China had been boosting meat imports in a bid to offset domestic shortages after the African Swine Fever outbreak that decimated the country’s pork herds. 

Meat and offal shipments surged to almost 900,000 tons in June, 75 percent higher than at the same time in 2019. Beijing says the new measures are helping to control the spread of the virus and will help stop another potential outbreak. 

Though China still needs more meat, the testing may cause exporters to slow sales to the Asian country because of the potential to get caught up in the testing process.

Chinese testing of meat, seafood, and other products for the coronavirus has tripled customs clearance times at some major Chinese ports. Bloomberg says the intensive testing is raising some major concerns that the delays could eventually tangle up global trade flows. It normally takes about three days to clear produce through customs, but an official with a supply chain company says it’s now taking up to 10 days. China began testing cold food shipments for the virus last month in a move it says is aimed at protecting the health of the general public. The testing has combined with large arrivals of cold-storage food to add to the congestion at some of its biggest ports. China had been boosting meat imports in a bid to offset domestic shortages after the African Swine Fever outbreak that decimated the country’s pork herds. Meat and offal shipments surged to almost 900,000 tons in June, 75 percent higher than at the same time in 2019. Beijing says the new measures are helping to control the spread of the virus and will help stop another potential outbreak. Though China still needs more meat, the testing may cause exporters to slow sales to the Asian country because of the potential to get caught up in the testing process.

Major slowdown at chinese ports could impact global trade

The USDA recently raised its estimate of red meat and poultry production. The numbers in its newest WASDE report shows production levels three billion pounds higher than the agency predicted after COVID-19 shut down meat plants in April and May. 

An Agriculture Dot Com article says the meat outlook brightened for the second month in a row. “The beef production forecast is raised primarily on higher cattle slaughter and heavier carcass weights,” the USDA says. “Forecast pork production is raised from last month primarily on higher expected second-half commercial slaughter. 

Broiler production is also raised on recent hatchery data.” In all, USDA forecast meat production of 106 billion pounds this year, which is more than its May estimate of 103 billion pounds. 

The USDA also estimates meat production will total 107.6 billion pounds in 2021. Americans consumed a record of 224.3 pounds per person last year. Consumption was expected to climb to 227.4 pounds before the coronavirus entered the country. &nbsp;

After the outbreak forced slowdowns and temporary closures of some of the largest U.S. meatpacking plants, the USDA said per-capita consumption would drop to 217.1 pounds of meat as production shrank.

The USDA recently raised its estimate of red meat and poultry production. The numbers in its newest WASDE report shows production levels three billion pounds higher than the agency predicted after COVID-19 shut down meat plants in April and May. An Agriculture Dot Com article says the meat outlook brightened for the second month in a row. “The beef production forecast is raised primarily on higher cattle slaughter and heavier carcass weights,” the USDA says. “Forecast pork production is raised from last month primarily on higher expected second-half commercial slaughter. Broiler production is also raised on recent hatchery data.” In all, USDA forecast meat production of 106 billion pounds this year, which is more than its May estimate of 103 billion pounds. The USDA also estimates meat production will total 107.6 billion pounds in 2021. Americans consumed a record of 224.3 pounds per person last year. Consumption was expected to climb to 227.4 pounds before the coronavirus entered the country. &nbsp;After the outbreak forced slowdowns and temporary closures of some of the largest U.S. meatpacking plants, the USDA said per-capita consumption would drop to 217.1 pounds of meat as production shrank.

Meat production continues to rebound

A Reuters report says China made the biggest purchase of U.S. corn in history on Tuesday. It’s the second massive deal that China has made for corn in less than a week. The Asian nation made the buy in an attempt to meet its commitments in the Phase One trade deal with the U.S., even as tensions rise between Washington, D.C., and China. 

The USDA says private exporters report that China bought 1.76 million tons of corn for shipment during the 2020-2021 marketing year that starts on September 1st. 

The sale passed the previous record of a one-day corn sale to China that totaled 1.45 million tons in December of 1994. The deal followed a sale of 1.365 million tons to China on July 10th, a deal that was spread out over two marketing years. 

Last week, China increased its corn and soybean import forecasts for the current season as the country expects to step up its agricultural purchases from the United States. 

China also booked deals to buy 129,000 tons of soybeans in the 2020-2021 marketing year. Beijing agreed to buy $80 billion worth of U.S. ag products over the next two years in the Phase One trade deal between the two countries.

A Reuters report says China made the biggest purchase of U.S. corn in history on Tuesday. It’s the second massive deal that China has made for corn in less than a week. The Asian nation made the buy in an attempt to meet its commitments in the Phase One trade deal with the U.S., even as tensions rise between Washington, D.C., and China. The USDA says private exporters report that China bought 1.76 million tons of corn for shipment during the 2020-2021 marketing year that starts on September 1st. The sale passed the previous record of a one-day corn sale to China that totaled 1.45 million tons in December of 1994. The deal followed a sale of 1.365 million tons to China on July 10th, a deal that was spread out over two marketing years. Last week, China increased its corn and soybean import forecasts for the current season as the country expects to step up its agricultural purchases from the United States. China also booked deals to buy 129,000 tons of soybeans in the 2020-2021 marketing year. Beijing agreed to buy $80 billion worth of U.S. ag products over the next two years in the Phase One trade deal between the two countries.

China makes biggest U.S. corn buy ever

A recent survey finds grocery shoppers are looking for bargains, and half of consumers fear empty grocery shelves. Marketing agency Acosta says 53 percent of shoppers say product availability is a top priority. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation last week reported beef and pork supply chains are recovering from the pandemic panic buying. However, the industry needs to work through a backlog of slaughter ready animals. Meanwhile, more than one-third of shoppers are worse off financially than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The report says low prices will be a priority for 45 percent of shoppers post-pandemic. Acosta CEO Darian Pickett says, “A recession is here and will significantly impact the shopping habits of those affected.” 

Pickett says product availability remains a concern and shopper are focusing on health, wellness and safety more than ever. The survey also shows consumer priorities of social distancing, low prices, customer safety and promotions and deals on grocery products.

A recent survey finds grocery shoppers are looking for bargains, and half of consumers fear empty grocery shelves. Marketing agency Acosta says 53 percent of shoppers say product availability is a top priority. The American Farm Bureau Federation last week reported beef and pork supply chains are recovering from the pandemic panic buying. However, the industry needs to work through a backlog of slaughter ready animals. Meanwhile, more than one-third of shoppers are worse off financially than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. The report says low prices will be a priority for 45 percent of shoppers post-pandemic. Acosta CEO Darian Pickett says, “A recession is here and will significantly impact the shopping habits of those affected.” Pickett says product availability remains a concern and shopper are focusing on health, wellness and safety more than ever. The survey also shows consumer priorities of social distancing, low prices, customer safety and promotions and deals on grocery products.

Shoppers still fear empty grocery shelves, seek bargains

President Donald Trump recently told reporters a Phase Two agreement with China is not likely. The President said aboard Air Force One last week, "I don't think about that," adding, "The relationship with China has been severely damaged.” 

Bloomberg News reports the Trump administration continues to pressure China over the COVID-19 outbreak, alleging a cover-up by China, among other things. Regarding his relationship with China, Trump says, “They could have stopped the plague, they didn’t,” referring to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Phase One agreement included $200 billion of U.S. agriculture exports over two years. However, trade analysts say China isn’t purchasing at a pace to reach that level yet, and some say the level of purchases needed to meet the total is unattainable. 

Last month, state-owned companies in China suspended purchases from the United States over political issues. Also last month, Trump said the Phase One agreement was “fully intact,” the same day adviser Peter Navarro said it was effectively dead.

President Donald Trump recently told reporters a Phase Two agreement with China is not likely. The President said aboard Air Force One last week, "I don't think about that," adding, "The relationship with China has been severely damaged.” Bloomberg News reports the Trump administration continues to pressure China over the COVID-19 outbreak, alleging a cover-up by China, among other things. Regarding his relationship with China, Trump says, “They could have stopped the plague, they didn’t,” referring to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Phase One agreement included $200 billion of U.S. agriculture exports over two years. However, trade analysts say China isn’t purchasing at a pace to reach that level yet, and some say the level of purchases needed to meet the total is unattainable. Last month, state-owned companies in China suspended purchases from the United States over political issues. Also last month, Trump said the Phase One agreement was “fully intact,” the same day adviser Peter Navarro said it was effectively dead.

Trump: China phase two agreement unlikely

The Ag Expo Center is one step closer to becoming a reality, after a pledge was fulfilled by the Schmidt Foundation and Eagle Radio for $125,000.&nbsp; They join others such as the Missouri Department of Transportation, Ag Expo and Buchanan County.

Gary Shorman, President of the Schmidt Foundation and Chairman of Eagle Communications, said he and his team believe the Ag Expo Center will be a great addition to the community and the region, and that they see lasting value in the project’s mission.

“We believe in agriculture, and the progress of this project is important to the community’s economic future,” Shorman said. “Not only is St. Joseph uniquely positioned with the region’s agricultural sciences corridor, but this project could become a true generational resource.”

"We are very grateful to the Schmidt Foundation, Eagle Radio, and all those who support the mission and goal of the Ag Expo Center. As we celebrate the fulfillment of one large pledge to our project, we continue to seek out similar contributions,” said Gerald Sprong, Ag Expo Center president and capital fund chair.

“We are closer to our goal today than ever, but there is still work to be done. The leadership and Board of Directors are fully committed to seeing the Ag Expo Center become a regional catalyst for innovation and education.”

The Ag Expo Center is one step closer to becoming a reality, after a pledge was fulfilled by the Schmidt Foundation and Eagle Radio for $125,000.&nbsp; They join others such as the Missouri Department of Transportation, Ag Expo and Buchanan County.Gary Shorman, President of the Schmidt Foundation and Chairman of Eagle Communications, said he and his team believe the Ag Expo Center will be a great addition to the community and the region, and that they see lasting value in the project’s mission.“We believe in agriculture, and the progress of this project is important to the community’s economic future,” Shorman said. “Not only is St. Joseph uniquely positioned with the region’s agricultural sciences corridor, but this project could become a true generational resource.”"We are very grateful to the Schmidt Foundation, Eagle Radio, and all those who support the mission and goal of the Ag Expo Center. As we celebrate the fulfillment of one large pledge to our project, we continue to seek out similar contributions,” said Gerald Sprong, Ag Expo Center president and capital fund chair.“We are closer to our goal today than ever, but there is still work to be done. The leadership and Board of Directors are fully committed to seeing the Ag Expo Center become a regional catalyst for innovation and education.”

Ag Expo Center $125,000 Pledge Finalized by the Schmidt Foundation and Eagle Radio

The American Soybean Association will celebrate 100 years of representing farmers next month. ASA was formed when brothers Taylor, Noah and Finis Fouts hosted the first Corn Belt Soybean Field Day at their Soyland Farms operation in Camden, Indiana, in September 1920. 

The event drew nearly 1,000 farmers and their families from six states. The National Soybean Growers' Association, later renamed the American Soybean Association, was formed that day. 

On Tuesday, August 4, 2020, ASA, with support from the Indiana Soybean Alliance, will host a 100th-anniversary celebration and historical marker dedication at its birthplace on Fouts Soyland Farm in Camden. 

The event features a keynote address from Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Steve Censky. The event is free of charge. However, attendance is capped at 180, so those interested must register. 

For those who cannot make it in person, the event will also be live-streamed. Find more details online at ASA100Years.com.

The American Soybean Association will celebrate 100 years of representing farmers next month. ASA was formed when brothers Taylor, Noah and Finis Fouts hosted the first Corn Belt Soybean Field Day at their Soyland Farms operation in Camden, Indiana, in September 1920. The event drew nearly 1,000 farmers and their families from six states. The National Soybean Growers' Association, later renamed the American Soybean Association, was formed that day. On Tuesday, August 4, 2020, ASA, with support from the Indiana Soybean Alliance, will host a 100th-anniversary celebration and historical marker dedication at its birthplace on Fouts Soyland Farm in Camden. The event features a keynote address from Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Steve Censky. The event is free of charge. However, attendance is capped at 180, so those interested must register. For those who cannot make it in person, the event will also be live-streamed. Find more details online at ASA100Years.com.

American Soybean Association to celebrate 100 years

The recovery of U.S. restaurant customer transactions has stalled for the second week in a row as COVID-19 cases continue to increase in many states, according to research firm NPD Group. 

For the week ending June 28, total customer transactions at major U.S. restaurant chains are down 14 percent versus the same week a year ago. For the week ending June 21, total transactions were down 13 percent versus a year ago. 

The rise in COVID-19 case counts is causing local and state authorities to delay reopening, and in some cases, reinstating on-premise restaurant dining restrictions. In Texas, for example, restaurants may continue to offer on-premise dining, but capacity is rolled back from 75 percent to 50 percent. California announced last week the closing of its nearly 86,000 restaurants to on-premise dining. 

Nationwide, full-service restaurants customer transactions for the week ending June 28 were down 25 percent versus the prior year and several states where COVID-19 is gaining saw the biggest declines in transactions.

The recovery of U.S. restaurant customer transactions has stalled for the second week in a row as COVID-19 cases continue to increase in many states, according to research firm NPD Group. For the week ending June 28, total customer transactions at major U.S. restaurant chains are down 14 percent versus the same week a year ago. For the week ending June 21, total transactions were down 13 percent versus a year ago. The rise in COVID-19 case counts is causing local and state authorities to delay reopening, and in some cases, reinstating on-premise restaurant dining restrictions. In Texas, for example, restaurants may continue to offer on-premise dining, but capacity is rolled back from 75 percent to 50 percent. California announced last week the closing of its nearly 86,000 restaurants to on-premise dining. Nationwide, full-service restaurants customer transactions for the week ending June 28 were down 25 percent versus the prior year and several states where COVID-19 is gaining saw the biggest declines in transactions.

Restaurant traffic stalls amid increase in COVID-19 cases

The United States and Kenya began trade negotiations Wednesday, seeking to enter a free trade agreement. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce applauded the progress, saying a deal could "strengthen and deepen our relationships with economies across the continent” of Africa. 

Kenya is included in the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which is set to expire in 2025. The U.S. Chamber says a Kenya free trade agreement will provide American businesses the certainty they need to continue investing in the growing market. 

Agriculture goals for the U.S. include securing full market access for U.S. agricultural goods in Kenya by reducing or eliminating tariffs. Further, the U.S. seeks to eliminate practices that unfairly decrease U.S. market access opportunities or distort agricultural markets for the United States. 

In 2018, U.S. total exports of agricultural products to Kenya totaled $37 million. Leading domestic export categories were $10 million of coarse grains, $6 million of wheat and $5 million of pulse crops.

The United States and Kenya began trade negotiations Wednesday, seeking to enter a free trade agreement. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce applauded the progress, saying a deal could "strengthen and deepen our relationships with economies across the continent” of Africa. Kenya is included in the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which is set to expire in 2025. The U.S. Chamber says a Kenya free trade agreement will provide American businesses the certainty they need to continue investing in the growing market. Agriculture goals for the U.S. include securing full market access for U.S. agricultural goods in Kenya by reducing or eliminating tariffs. Further, the U.S. seeks to eliminate practices that unfairly decrease U.S. market access opportunities or distort agricultural markets for the United States. In 2018, U.S. total exports of agricultural products to Kenya totaled $37 million. Leading domestic export categories were $10 million of coarse grains, $6 million of wheat and $5 million of pulse crops.

U.S. and Kenya begin trade talks

The Department of Agriculture this week announced changes to several crop insurance policies that the agency says improves options for producers. USDA introduced the Quality Loss Option, a new unit structure assignment option for Enterprise Units and new procedures for Multi-County Enterprise Units. 

Risk Management Agency Administrator Martin Barbre says the changes “provide producers more flexibility and options” to farmers. The new Quality Loss Option is in response to the 2018 Farm Bill that required the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation to research and develop methods of adjusting for quality losses. 

The new Quality Loss Option allows producers to replace post-quality production amounts in their Actual Production History databases with pre-quality production amounts, thereby increasing their actual yields for individual crop years. 

For Enterprise Units and Multi-County Enterprise Units, a new unit structure assignment option was added. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. Learn more about the changes at rma.usda.gov.

The Department of Agriculture this week announced changes to several crop insurance policies that the agency says improves options for producers. USDA introduced the Quality Loss Option, a new unit structure assignment option for Enterprise Units and new procedures for Multi-County Enterprise Units. Risk Management Agency Administrator Martin Barbre says the changes “provide producers more flexibility and options” to farmers. The new Quality Loss Option is in response to the 2018 Farm Bill that required the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation to research and develop methods of adjusting for quality losses. The new Quality Loss Option allows producers to replace post-quality production amounts in their Actual Production History databases with pre-quality production amounts, thereby increasing their actual yields for individual crop years. For Enterprise Units and Multi-County Enterprise Units, a new unit structure assignment option was added. Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. Learn more about the changes at rma.usda.gov.

USDA provides new crop insurance options

Below-normal precipitation in the upper Missouri Basin during June resulted in slightly below-average June runoff. As a result, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reduced water releases from Gavins Point Dam to 30,000 cubic feet per second. 

The 2020 calendar year upper basin runoff forecast, updated on July 1, is 31.2 Million Acre Feet, 121 percent of average. Average annual runoff for the upper basin is 25.8 million-acre feet. While above average, the forecast is welcomed along the Missouri River Basin, plagued by flooding last year. 

Work continues along the river to repair and improve levees that protect farmland. Much of that runoff was due to wet soil conditions early this spring and snowmelt runoff.&nbsp; John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, says, “remaining summer runoff will depend on rainfall events.” 

Soils continue to dry out in the upper Missouri River Basin due to well-below normal precipitation and warmer-than-normal temperatures. And, drought conditions have expanded across much of western portion of the Basin.

Below-normal precipitation in the upper Missouri Basin during June resulted in slightly below-average June runoff. As a result, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reduced water releases from Gavins Point Dam to 30,000 cubic feet per second. The 2020 calendar year upper basin runoff forecast, updated on July 1, is 31.2 Million Acre Feet, 121 percent of average. Average annual runoff for the upper basin is 25.8 million-acre feet. While above average, the forecast is welcomed along the Missouri River Basin, plagued by flooding last year. Work continues along the river to repair and improve levees that protect farmland. Much of that runoff was due to wet soil conditions early this spring and snowmelt runoff.&nbsp; John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, says, “remaining summer runoff will depend on rainfall events.” Soils continue to dry out in the upper Missouri River Basin due to well-below normal precipitation and warmer-than-normal temperatures. And, drought conditions have expanded across much of western portion of the Basin.

Gavins Point Dam decreases Missouri River water releases

Farmer sentiment improved again in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 14 points to 117. 

The barometer's rise was fueled by improvements in both the Index of Current Conditions, which rose to a reading of 99, 19 percent higher than a month earlier, and the Index of Future Expectations, which climbed to 126, 12 percent higher than in May. 

The improvement in farmer sentiment left the Ag Economy Barometer seven percent below one year earlier, while the Index of Future Expectations was still ten percent below its June 2019 level. 

However, the Index of Current Conditions was two percent higher than in June 2019, likely reflecting considerably improved spring planting conditions throughout much of the nation, in addition to support from USDA's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. 

Four out of ten farmers surveyed said that as a result of concerns about COVID-19, they are conducting more business online, and over half of respondents said they are less likely to attend in-person educational events in 2020.

Farmer sentiment improved again in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 14 points to 117. The barometer's rise was fueled by improvements in both the Index of Current Conditions, which rose to a reading of 99, 19 percent higher than a month earlier, and the Index of Future Expectations, which climbed to 126, 12 percent higher than in May. The improvement in farmer sentiment left the Ag Economy Barometer seven percent below one year earlier, while the Index of Future Expectations was still ten percent below its June 2019 level. However, the Index of Current Conditions was two percent higher than in June 2019, likely reflecting considerably improved spring planting conditions throughout much of the nation, in addition to support from USDA's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Four out of ten farmers surveyed said that as a result of concerns about COVID-19, they are conducting more business online, and over half of respondents said they are less likely to attend in-person educational events in 2020.

Ag economy barometer shows some optimism

China says a recently reported strain of swine flu is not a new virus. China’s Ministry of Agriculture over the weekend stated the G4 swine flu strain is not new and does not sicken humans and animals easily. 

The claims rebuff a study published last week, according to Reuters. China’s agriculture ministry said in a statement that the study has been interpreted by the media “in an exaggerated and nonfactual way.” 

The study was published in a U.S. scientific journal warning the new swine flu virus “has become more infectious to humans and could become a potential pandemic virus.” The U.S. Centers for Disease Control says the G4 strain has been spreading in China since 2016 and has become the predominant genotype found in Chinese pigs. 

The scientific report last week claims the virus has the “right characteristics for causing infections in people.” However, only two human infections with G4 viruses have previously been reported.

China says a recently reported strain of swine flu is not a new virus. China’s Ministry of Agriculture over the weekend stated the G4 swine flu strain is not new and does not sicken humans and animals easily. The claims rebuff a study published last week, according to Reuters. China’s agriculture ministry said in a statement that the study has been interpreted by the media “in an exaggerated and nonfactual way.” The study was published in a U.S. scientific journal warning the new swine flu virus “has become more infectious to humans and could become a potential pandemic virus.” The U.S. Centers for Disease Control says the G4 strain has been spreading in China since 2016 and has become the predominant genotype found in Chinese pigs. The scientific report last week claims the virus has the “right characteristics for causing infections in people.” However, only two human infections with G4 viruses have previously been reported.

China says G4 swine flu not new

A group of Senators last week introduced the Responding to Epidemic Losses and Investing in the Economic Future for Producers Act of 2020. Known as the RELIEF Act, the legislation would provide relief to livestock and poultry producers amidst the coronavirus pandemic. 

The bill would support producers that are faced with euthanizing their animals due to COVID-19. The legislation also provides resources for animal health laboratories as they develop solutions to defend against emerging animal disease spread. 

Finally, the bill gives additional authority to the Department of Agriculture through the existing Commodity Credit Corporation Charter to deal with removal and disposal of livestock for any public health emergency moving forward. 

The bill was introduced by Iowa Senators, Republicans Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, along with Oklahoma Republican Senator Jim Inhofe, and Republicans Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, both of North Carolina. Grassley says the bill "will provide much-needed assistance to farmers who had to depopulate their livestock through no fault of their own.”

A group of Senators last week introduced the Responding to Epidemic Losses and Investing in the Economic Future for Producers Act of 2020. Known as the RELIEF Act, the legislation would provide relief to livestock and poultry producers amidst the coronavirus pandemic. The bill would support producers that are faced with euthanizing their animals due to COVID-19. The legislation also provides resources for animal health laboratories as they develop solutions to defend against emerging animal disease spread. Finally, the bill gives additional authority to the Department of Agriculture through the existing Commodity Credit Corporation Charter to deal with removal and disposal of livestock for any public health emergency moving forward. The bill was introduced by Iowa Senators, Republicans Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, along with Oklahoma Republican Senator Jim Inhofe, and Republicans Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, both of North Carolina. Grassley says the bill "will provide much-needed assistance to farmers who had to depopulate their livestock through no fault of their own.”

RELIEF Act would support livestock and poultry producers

U.S. beef and pork exports trended lower in May, due in part to interruptions in slaughter and processing. The U.S. Meat Export Federation reports beef exports dropped well below year-ago levels and recorded the lowest monthly volume in ten years. 

Pork exports remained higher than a year ago but were the lowest since October 2019. Packing plant disruptions caused by COVID-19 resulted in the lower exports. 

May beef exports were down 33 percent from a year ago to 79,200 metric tons, with value falling 34 percent to $480.1 million. May pork exports totaled 243,800 metric tons, 12 percent above a year ago but down 13 percent from the monthly average for the first quarter of 2020. 

Export value was $620.9 million, up nine percent year-over-year but 16 percent below the first quarter monthly average. &nbsp;However, improvements are expected. 

USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom says, “Now that production has substantially recovered, the U.S. industry is better able to meet the needs of both domestic and international customers.”

U.S. beef and pork exports trended lower in May, due in part to interruptions in slaughter and processing. The U.S. Meat Export Federation reports beef exports dropped well below year-ago levels and recorded the lowest monthly volume in ten years. Pork exports remained higher than a year ago but were the lowest since October 2019. Packing plant disruptions caused by COVID-19 resulted in the lower exports. May beef exports were down 33 percent from a year ago to 79,200 metric tons, with value falling 34 percent to $480.1 million. May pork exports totaled 243,800 metric tons, 12 percent above a year ago but down 13 percent from the monthly average for the first quarter of 2020. Export value was $620.9 million, up nine percent year-over-year but 16 percent below the first quarter monthly average. &nbsp;However, improvements are expected. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom says, “Now that production has substantially recovered, the U.S. industry is better able to meet the needs of both domestic and international customers.”

Production challenges, economic headwinds slow red meat exports in May

Producers who haven’t completed their crop acreage reports after spring planting should make an appointment with their local Farm Service Agency office before the applicable deadline. July 15th is the major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. 

“The first step to becoming eligible for many USDA programs is to file an accurate crop acreage report,” says FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “To file your acreage report, call your local FSA office to make an appointment.” 

Due to COVID-19, FSA put reporting flexibilities in place. The agency can work with producers to file timely acreage reports by phone, email, and online tools, as well as virtual meetings. You must call ahead to those offices that are open for in-person appointments. 

After all of the completed maps and acreage reporting information is received, FSA will make software updates and send producers the completed Report of Acreage form to sign. Producers must return the signed form certifying their acreage report to the FSA as soon as possible.

Producers who haven’t completed their crop acreage reports after spring planting should make an appointment with their local Farm Service Agency office before the applicable deadline. July 15th is the major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. “The first step to becoming eligible for many USDA programs is to file an accurate crop acreage report,” says FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “To file your acreage report, call your local FSA office to make an appointment.” Due to COVID-19, FSA put reporting flexibilities in place. The agency can work with producers to file timely acreage reports by phone, email, and online tools, as well as virtual meetings. You must call ahead to those offices that are open for in-person appointments. After all of the completed maps and acreage reporting information is received, FSA will make software updates and send producers the completed Report of Acreage form to sign. Producers must return the signed form certifying their acreage report to the FSA as soon as possible.

USDA reminding producers to complete crop acreage reports

A modernized North American trade pact officially took effect last week, providing some continuity for manufacturers and agriculture. Reuters says the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement is facing multiple disputes that still need to be resolved, exposing cracks in what was supposed to be a stronger North American “fortress of competitiveness.” 

The deal takes effect with all three countries mired in a COVID-inspired recession. April trade flow of goods between the countries is normally about $1.2 trillion every year, but the disease cut trade to its lowest monthly level in ten years. 

The Trump Administration is currently threatening to implement new tariffs on aluminum imports from Canada. Issues currently nagging at the USMCA also include hundreds of legal challenges to Mexico’s new labor laws that ensure workers can freely organize and grant unions full collective bargaining rights. 

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer calls the agreement the most “far-reaching” trade agreement in history. However, he also says he won’t hesitate to file dispute cases “early and often” to enforce USMCA provisions. He says Mexico’s failure to approve U.S. biotech products is an example.

A modernized North American trade pact officially took effect last week, providing some continuity for manufacturers and agriculture. Reuters says the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement is facing multiple disputes that still need to be resolved, exposing cracks in what was supposed to be a stronger North American “fortress of competitiveness.” The deal takes effect with all three countries mired in a COVID-inspired recession. April trade flow of goods between the countries is normally about $1.2 trillion every year, but the disease cut trade to its lowest monthly level in ten years. The Trump Administration is currently threatening to implement new tariffs on aluminum imports from Canada. Issues currently nagging at the USMCA also include hundreds of legal challenges to Mexico’s new labor laws that ensure workers can freely organize and grant unions full collective bargaining rights. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer calls the agreement the most “far-reaching” trade agreement in history. However, he also says he won’t hesitate to file dispute cases “early and often” to enforce USMCA provisions. He says Mexico’s failure to approve U.S. biotech products is an example.

USMCA kicks in under a cloud of disagreements

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler talked about the 52 gap-year Small Refinery Exemption petitions awaiting the agency. The 52 applications cover the years 2011-2018. 

There are 27 more SRE applications for 2019 and one for 2020. All the applications are in the hands of the Department of Energy for review. The 52 applications were sent in earlier this year by refiners after a Court of Appeals ruling earlier this year in the Tenth Circuit. 

A DTN report says the biofuels industry and supportive lawmakers are in the middle of a public relations campaign to encourage the EPA to reject all of the applications. 

Some of the petitions that go as far back as 2012 have renewable identification numbers for that year which have expired. Wheeler says that means there are several potential problems with the petitions. 

“So, there are questions about whether they can show economic harm and what the remedy would be,” Wheeler says. “First, we’re waiting to see what the Department of Energy has to say about the small refinery exemptions.”

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler talked about the 52 gap-year Small Refinery Exemption petitions awaiting the agency. The 52 applications cover the years 2011-2018. There are 27 more SRE applications for 2019 and one for 2020. All the applications are in the hands of the Department of Energy for review. The 52 applications were sent in earlier this year by refiners after a Court of Appeals ruling earlier this year in the Tenth Circuit. A DTN report says the biofuels industry and supportive lawmakers are in the middle of a public relations campaign to encourage the EPA to reject all of the applications. Some of the petitions that go as far back as 2012 have renewable identification numbers for that year which have expired. Wheeler says that means there are several potential problems with the petitions. “So, there are questions about whether they can show economic harm and what the remedy would be,” Wheeler says. “First, we’re waiting to see what the Department of Energy has to say about the small refinery exemptions.”