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

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

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

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

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

Scientists want tax on meat, livestock for pandemic prevention

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

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

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

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

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

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

Historic National FFA Convention and Expo wraps up for 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jeana Curtis crowned 2020 Mrs. United State Agriculture

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gray wolf delisted from endangered species list

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

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

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

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

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

La Nina fueling western drought

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA announces more rural community and broadband investments

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

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

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

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

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

Consumers are stocking up again amid COVID, political unrest fears

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

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

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

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

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

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

EPA considering E15 label changes at gas pumps

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

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

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

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

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

Ethanol groups submit comments on flex fuel vehicles

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

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

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

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

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

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

EPA extends Dicamba registrations

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA reports top ten pumpkin producing states

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA releases cattle on feed report

The Department of Agriculture has paid more than $7 billion in assistance to farmers as part of round two of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.&nbsp; Known as CFAP 2, the program provides farmers with financial aid to help absorb some of the increased marketing costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue says, “the funding builds upon the over $10 billion disbursed under the first round.” Since CFAP 2 enrollment began in September, the Farm Service Agency has approved more than 443,000 applications. 

The top five states for payments are Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Illinois and Kansas. Through CFAP 2, USDA is making available up to $14 billion for farmers and ranchers. 

CFAP 2 is a separate program from the first round of funding. Farmers and ranchers who participated in the original program are not automatically enrolled and must complete a new application for the second round of funding. FSA will accept applications through December 11, 2020.

The Department of Agriculture has paid more than $7 billion in assistance to farmers as part of round two of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.&nbsp; Known as CFAP 2, the program provides farmers with financial aid to help absorb some of the increased marketing costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue says, “the funding builds upon the over $10 billion disbursed under the first round.” Since CFAP 2 enrollment began in September, the Farm Service Agency has approved more than 443,000 applications. The top five states for payments are Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Illinois and Kansas. Through CFAP 2, USDA is making available up to $14 billion for farmers and ranchers. CFAP 2 is a separate program from the first round of funding. Farmers and ranchers who participated in the original program are not automatically enrolled and must complete a new application for the second round of funding. FSA will accept applications through December 11, 2020.

USDA: more than $7 billion paid in second round of CFAP

The Department of Agriculture late last week announced China has followed through on 71 percent of its Phase One Economic and trade Agreement commitments. 

USDA and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office says that China has purchased over $23 billion in agricultural products to date. Outstanding sales of U.S. corn to China are at an all-time high of 8.7 million tons, and U.S. soybeans sales for marketing year 2021 are off to the strongest start in history. 

U.S. exports of sorghum to China from January to August 2020 totaled $617 million, up from $561 million for the same period in 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. pork exports to China hit a record in just the first five months of 2020, and beef exports to China through August are already more than triple the total for 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USDA expects 2020 sales to China to hit record or near-record levels for many U.S. agricultural products, including pet food, alfalfa hay, pecans, peanuts, and prepared foods.

The Department of Agriculture late last week announced China has followed through on 71 percent of its Phase One Economic and trade Agreement commitments. USDA and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office says that China has purchased over $23 billion in agricultural products to date. Outstanding sales of U.S. corn to China are at an all-time high of 8.7 million tons, and U.S. soybeans sales for marketing year 2021 are off to the strongest start in history. U.S. exports of sorghum to China from January to August 2020 totaled $617 million, up from $561 million for the same period in 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. pork exports to China hit a record in just the first five months of 2020, and beef exports to China through August are already more than triple the total for 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA expects 2020 sales to China to hit record or near-record levels for many U.S. agricultural products, including pet food, alfalfa hay, pecans, peanuts, and prepared foods.

China has purchased 71 percent of its Phase One target

Like a lot of other aspects of the economy, 2020 has put downward pressure on farmland values, thanks in part to events like trade disputes and an economic downturn. At the same time, COVID-19 restrictions and uncertainty have left the market with much less available land. 

Farm Journal recently took a “Pulse Poll” of farmers on what they expect land values to do over the next year. The results show farmers seem to be looking for steady land values during the year ahead, but market analysts see the potential for strength in land prices. 28-percent of the survey respondents expect higher land prices, while 60 percent say prices will be stable. 

Just 12 percent of responses expect lower land prices. Doug Hensley, President of Real Estate Services for Hertz Farm Management, tells Farm Journal that four factors that may lead to a stronger farmland market. 

They include a limited inventory of farms for sale, rising commodity prices, higher government support for farmers, and interest rates that are staying low. While local markets can sometimes vary wildly, Hensley sees the overall market as back to where it was during early 2020: “Stable, with an overall bias to stronger,” he says.

Like a lot of other aspects of the economy, 2020 has put downward pressure on farmland values, thanks in part to events like trade disputes and an economic downturn. At the same time, COVID-19 restrictions and uncertainty have left the market with much less available land. Farm Journal recently took a “Pulse Poll” of farmers on what they expect land values to do over the next year. The results show farmers seem to be looking for steady land values during the year ahead, but market analysts see the potential for strength in land prices. 28-percent of the survey respondents expect higher land prices, while 60 percent say prices will be stable. Just 12 percent of responses expect lower land prices. Doug Hensley, President of Real Estate Services for Hertz Farm Management, tells Farm Journal that four factors that may lead to a stronger farmland market. They include a limited inventory of farms for sale, rising commodity prices, higher government support for farmers, and interest rates that are staying low. While local markets can sometimes vary wildly, Hensley sees the overall market as back to where it was during early 2020: “Stable, with an overall bias to stronger,” he says.

Farm Journal report shows farmers expect stable to higher land prices

The Kansas City Federal Reserve says a slower pace of farm financing activity continued in the third quarter of 2020. The total volume of non-real estate farm loans remained subdued amid ongoing weakness in the ag sector, thanks in part to developments regarding COVID-19. 

The National Survey of Terms of Lending to Farmers says despite growing 15 percent from the previous year, total non-real-estate loan volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were below the 20-year trend for that period. Loans for operating expenses increased from last year but were still less than the previous three years. 

Loans to finance feeder livestock and farm machinery followed a similar trend, while the volume of loans for other livestock remained steady. All other loans declined for the second straight year, further weighing down the overall loan volumes. The number of new loans originated to farmers also declined for nearly all loan types. 

The total quantity of loans issued to farmers decreased, driven by a 12 percent decline in the number of operating loans. Similar to the prior quarter, government payments and lending programs may have offset both declines in farm revenues and financing needs of some farm borrowers in the third quarter.

The Kansas City Federal Reserve says a slower pace of farm financing activity continued in the third quarter of 2020. The total volume of non-real estate farm loans remained subdued amid ongoing weakness in the ag sector, thanks in part to developments regarding COVID-19. The National Survey of Terms of Lending to Farmers says despite growing 15 percent from the previous year, total non-real-estate loan volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were below the 20-year trend for that period. Loans for operating expenses increased from last year but were still less than the previous three years. Loans to finance feeder livestock and farm machinery followed a similar trend, while the volume of loans for other livestock remained steady. All other loans declined for the second straight year, further weighing down the overall loan volumes. The number of new loans originated to farmers also declined for nearly all loan types. The total quantity of loans issued to farmers decreased, driven by a 12 percent decline in the number of operating loans. Similar to the prior quarter, government payments and lending programs may have offset both declines in farm revenues and financing needs of some farm borrowers in the third quarter.

KC Fed: fewer loans issued to farmers limits overall lending activity

The USDA says it has authorized $500 million for the fourth round of purchases for the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program. As in the third round, states in the program have been allocated a certain number of boxes based on the internal needs of each state. 

The program will continue the purchase of combination boxes to include fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk, and meat products. The program will continue to require that proposals illustrate how coverage would be provided to areas identified as opportunity zones. 

“I’m gratified by the overwhelmingly positive response to the Farms to Families Food Box Program from families, distributors, food banks, faith-based organizations, and non-profits across the country,” says Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue. “We recently surpassed 110 million boxes delivered, and millions more are headed to Americans in need. 

I’m very happy that we can extend this program and continue our relief efforts for American farmers and families.” The agency will award contracts for the fourth round by October 30, while deliveries of food boxes will run from November 1 through December 31.

The USDA says it has authorized $500 million for the fourth round of purchases for the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program. As in the third round, states in the program have been allocated a certain number of boxes based on the internal needs of each state. The program will continue the purchase of combination boxes to include fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk, and meat products. The program will continue to require that proposals illustrate how coverage would be provided to areas identified as opportunity zones. “I’m gratified by the overwhelmingly positive response to the Farms to Families Food Box Program from families, distributors, food banks, faith-based organizations, and non-profits across the country,” says Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue. “We recently surpassed 110 million boxes delivered, and millions more are headed to Americans in need. I’m very happy that we can extend this program and continue our relief efforts for American farmers and families.” The agency will award contracts for the fourth round by October 30, while deliveries of food boxes will run from November 1 through December 31.

USDA announces fourth round of farmers to families food box program

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Sunflower farmers in the U.S. are expected to produce their biggest crop in five years, and North Dakota farmers are expecting their best yield in history.

The National Sunflower Association says the first production forecast for 2020 is 2.81 billion pounds, up 44% from 2019. North Dakota leads the country in sunflower production. The state forecast is 1.23 billion pounds, up 64% from last year.

Higher yields are expected in five of the eight states in which sunflower production is tracked.&nbsp; Increases are forecast for Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and the Dakotas.&nbsp; Decreases are expected in California, Minnesota and Texas.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Sunflower farmers in the U.S. are expected to produce their biggest crop in five years, and North Dakota farmers are expecting their best yield in history.The National Sunflower Association says the first production forecast for 2020 is 2.81 billion pounds, up 44% from 2019. North Dakota leads the country in sunflower production. The state forecast is 1.23 billion pounds, up 64% from last year.Higher yields are expected in five of the eight states in which sunflower production is tracked.&nbsp; Increases are forecast for Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and the Dakotas.&nbsp; Decreases are expected in California, Minnesota and Texas.

U.S. sunflower crop biggest in 5 years

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Thursday announced a $3.1 billion rural electric infrastructure investment in 25 states. The Department of Agriculture is investing in 53 projects through the Electric Loan Program, benefitting 1.4 million rural residents and businesses across the country. 

The announcement is part of a record level of USDA electric infrastructure investments in one fiscal year. The department invested $6.3 billion in the Electric Loan Program in fiscal year 2020, up from $5.8 billion in 2019, also a record. 

USDA made loans to 119 utilities in 34 states across the country during fiscal year 2020, which ended on September 30. Those figures build upon the $3.7 billion invested in 2018. 

USDA’s Electric Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, as well as improvements to produce clean energy from coal-fired plants. Local utilities also use the loans to invest in infrastructure to deliver affordable power to thousands of residential, commercial and agricultural consumers.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Thursday announced a $3.1 billion rural electric infrastructure investment in 25 states. The Department of Agriculture is investing in 53 projects through the Electric Loan Program, benefitting 1.4 million rural residents and businesses across the country. The announcement is part of a record level of USDA electric infrastructure investments in one fiscal year. The department invested $6.3 billion in the Electric Loan Program in fiscal year 2020, up from $5.8 billion in 2019, also a record. USDA made loans to 119 utilities in 34 states across the country during fiscal year 2020, which ended on September 30. Those figures build upon the $3.7 billion invested in 2018. USDA’s Electric Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, as well as improvements to produce clean energy from coal-fired plants. Local utilities also use the loans to invest in infrastructure to deliver affordable power to thousands of residential, commercial and agricultural consumers.

USDA announces 3.1 billion investment in rural electric infrastructure

The corn industry is working with the California Air Resources Board to conduct E15 vehicle testing at the University of California at Riverside. The National Corn Growers Association says E15 in the California market is vital to growing ethanol demand. 

The testing will demonstrate the environmental benefits and compatibility of E15 in selected makes and models of vehicles. The process will help pave the way for sales of E15 and higher blends of ethanol in California. 

NCGA Ethanol Action Team members JR Roesner says if E15 becomes the base fuel in California, “the potential market opportunity would be roughly 750 million gallons of ethanol or 260 million bushels of corn." 

Tests will be conducted on 20 late-model vehicles to measure tailpipe and evaporative emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Testing a broad sample of makes, models, and technology levels with both E10 and E15 blends will provide the state with the necessary information to permit the sale of E15 in California.

The corn industry is working with the California Air Resources Board to conduct E15 vehicle testing at the University of California at Riverside. The National Corn Growers Association says E15 in the California market is vital to growing ethanol demand. The testing will demonstrate the environmental benefits and compatibility of E15 in selected makes and models of vehicles. The process will help pave the way for sales of E15 and higher blends of ethanol in California. NCGA Ethanol Action Team members JR Roesner says if E15 becomes the base fuel in California, “the potential market opportunity would be roughly 750 million gallons of ethanol or 260 million bushels of corn." Tests will be conducted on 20 late-model vehicles to measure tailpipe and evaporative emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Testing a broad sample of makes, models, and technology levels with both E10 and E15 blends will provide the state with the necessary information to permit the sale of E15 in California.

E15 ethanol blend testing begins in California

More than a dozen state cattle organization voice their support for the Cattle Market Transparency Act. In a letter to Senate Agriculture Committee leadership, 16 state cattle groups say the bill "will aid in cattle market transparency for all producers." 

Led by the Nebraska Cattlemen's Association, the group says, "our respective organizations do not ask for any type of market manipulation or guaranteed profit." Rather, they seek readily available information to allow cattle producers the ability to make informed and educated decisions. 

Introduced by Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, the bill includes the cattle contract library, 14-day packer purchase commitment outlook, and clarification of Livestock Mandatory Price Reporting confidentiality guidelines to avoid non-reporting of collected data on a regional and national basis. 

Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Marketing Service to establish regionally negotiated cash plus negotiated grid marketing volume minimums thresholds that enhance price discovery goals and commitments.

More than a dozen state cattle organization voice their support for the Cattle Market Transparency Act. In a letter to Senate Agriculture Committee leadership, 16 state cattle groups say the bill "will aid in cattle market transparency for all producers." Led by the Nebraska Cattlemen's Association, the group says, "our respective organizations do not ask for any type of market manipulation or guaranteed profit." Rather, they seek readily available information to allow cattle producers the ability to make informed and educated decisions. Introduced by Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, the bill includes the cattle contract library, 14-day packer purchase commitment outlook, and clarification of Livestock Mandatory Price Reporting confidentiality guidelines to avoid non-reporting of collected data on a regional and national basis. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Marketing Service to establish regionally negotiated cash plus negotiated grid marketing volume minimums thresholds that enhance price discovery goals and commitments.

State cattle groups support cattle market transparency act

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration calls the August derecho the most expensive thunderstorm event in modern history. As part of NOAA’s Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters list, the August derecho is estimated to have caused $7.5 billion in damages. 

The storm traveled from southeast South Dakota to Ohio, a path of 770 miles in 14 hours producing widespread winds greater than 100 mph. The states most affected included Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana and Ohio. The storm caused widespread damage to millions of acres of corn and soybean crops across central Iowa. 

There was also severe damage to homes, businesses and vehicles. In addition, there were 15 tornadoes across northeastern Illinois, with several affecting the Chicago metropolitan area. 

While noting wildfire damages are to be determined, NOAA says the thunderstorm is second to Hurricane Laura in 2020, which caused $14 billion in damages. Other 2020-billion-dollar weather events include tornado outbreaks in the Southeast and Tennessee, and several severe thunderstorm events this spring.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration calls the August derecho the most expensive thunderstorm event in modern history. As part of NOAA’s Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters list, the August derecho is estimated to have caused $7.5 billion in damages. The storm traveled from southeast South Dakota to Ohio, a path of 770 miles in 14 hours producing widespread winds greater than 100 mph. The states most affected included Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana and Ohio. The storm caused widespread damage to millions of acres of corn and soybean crops across central Iowa. There was also severe damage to homes, businesses and vehicles. In addition, there were 15 tornadoes across northeastern Illinois, with several affecting the Chicago metropolitan area. While noting wildfire damages are to be determined, NOAA says the thunderstorm is second to Hurricane Laura in 2020, which caused $14 billion in damages. Other 2020-billion-dollar weather events include tornado outbreaks in the Southeast and Tennessee, and several severe thunderstorm events this spring.

August Derecho costliest thunderstorm event

Pork Supplies for China’s upcoming Lunar New Year are projected 30 percent higher than year-ago levels. A Chinese agriculture official says the recovery will reduce prices compared with last year during the holiday. 

China’s Lunar New Year holiday is known as the country’s most important holiday where pork is traditionally served at millions of family meals. It will begin February 11, 2021. 

Chinese agriculture officials tell Reuters that pig producers have built 12,500 new large-scale pig farms in the first three quarters of the year and restarted more than 13,000 empty farms. 

Officials say the recovery had been “better than expected” from African swine fever, which impacted at least 40 percent of China’s hog herd. The increased pork supplies reflect the recovery, but also large imports of pork. 

The U.S. Meat Export Federation says through August, exports to China and Hong Kong more than doubled last year’s totals in both volume and value.

Pork Supplies for China’s upcoming Lunar New Year are projected 30 percent higher than year-ago levels. A Chinese agriculture official says the recovery will reduce prices compared with last year during the holiday. China’s Lunar New Year holiday is known as the country’s most important holiday where pork is traditionally served at millions of family meals. It will begin February 11, 2021. Chinese agriculture officials tell Reuters that pig producers have built 12,500 new large-scale pig farms in the first three quarters of the year and restarted more than 13,000 empty farms. Officials say the recovery had been “better than expected” from African swine fever, which impacted at least 40 percent of China’s hog herd. The increased pork supplies reflect the recovery, but also large imports of pork. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says through August, exports to China and Hong Kong more than doubled last year’s totals in both volume and value.

China forecast higher domestic pork supplies

Direct payments to U.S. farmers are at an all-time high as the nation prepares for a national election next month. Record government subsidies, much needed in the turbulent trade environment and coronavirus pandemic, are projected to make up more than a third of farm income in 2020. 

In a report by Reuters, the aid programs could be key to Donald Trump’s chances of success in swing states. The Environmental Working Group called agriculture aid in the latest COVID-19 relief package "old-fashioned vote-buying." Farmers, facing steep losses stemming from Trump's trade policies and COVID-19 related market disruption would argue the funds are needed. 

However, this fall, commodity prices are slowly improving and providing a better outlook for agriculture. Meanwhile, the direct payments have the attention of farm groups in Canada. Grain Farmers of Ontario is seeking more funding from the Canadian government. 

One farm group executive from Canada states, “Government funds have allowed U.S. producers an advantage over farmers in Canada, not just on price but money to invest in their operations.”

Direct payments to U.S. farmers are at an all-time high as the nation prepares for a national election next month. Record government subsidies, much needed in the turbulent trade environment and coronavirus pandemic, are projected to make up more than a third of farm income in 2020. In a report by Reuters, the aid programs could be key to Donald Trump’s chances of success in swing states. The Environmental Working Group called agriculture aid in the latest COVID-19 relief package "old-fashioned vote-buying." Farmers, facing steep losses stemming from Trump's trade policies and COVID-19 related market disruption would argue the funds are needed. However, this fall, commodity prices are slowly improving and providing a better outlook for agriculture. Meanwhile, the direct payments have the attention of farm groups in Canada. Grain Farmers of Ontario is seeking more funding from the Canadian government. One farm group executive from Canada states, “Government funds have allowed U.S. producers an advantage over farmers in Canada, not just on price but money to invest in their operations.”

Reuters: Payments to farmers at all time high before election

The absence of an EU-UK trade deal on January 1, 2021, would cause significant economic losses on both sides for companies active in food and agriculture supply chains. 

Rabobank researchers say companies in the food supply chain should be prepared for loss of export and import opportunities. A certainty of a no-deal scenario is that the EU will consider the UK a third country as of January 1, 2021, and will apply import tariffs on UK food and agriculture products, just as the EU does on imports from other third countries. 

Import increases related to agriculture include dairy, red meats, sugar, and consumer foods, among other categories. Rabobank says that without a trade deal, export volumes out of the UK to the EU will shrink to almost negligible levels in most cases. 

Tariff levels range from 30 percent, for beef, dairy and sugar, to 10-30 percent for pork and poultry, and ten percent for some fruits and vegetables, beverages and fertilizers.

The absence of an EU-UK trade deal on January 1, 2021, would cause significant economic losses on both sides for companies active in food and agriculture supply chains. Rabobank researchers say companies in the food supply chain should be prepared for loss of export and import opportunities. A certainty of a no-deal scenario is that the EU will consider the UK a third country as of January 1, 2021, and will apply import tariffs on UK food and agriculture products, just as the EU does on imports from other third countries. Import increases related to agriculture include dairy, red meats, sugar, and consumer foods, among other categories. Rabobank says that without a trade deal, export volumes out of the UK to the EU will shrink to almost negligible levels in most cases. Tariff levels range from 30 percent, for beef, dairy and sugar, to 10-30 percent for pork and poultry, and ten percent for some fruits and vegetables, beverages and fertilizers.