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

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

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

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

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

USDA announces biofuels investment to increase sales

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

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

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

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

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

Group of ag leaders endorse Biden-Harris

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coronavirus relief on hold

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

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

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

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

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

Corteva: Dry conditions may result in 2021 herbicide carryover injuries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Farmers showing more optimism in monthly ag economy barometer

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

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

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

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

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

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

Below average runoff continues along Missouri River basin

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

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

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

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

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

Oil prices fall amid COVID-19 concerns

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

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

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

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

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

USTR initiates Vietnam section 301 investigation

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

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

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

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

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

Stimulus talks remain hopeful

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

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

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

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

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

PRICE Act would make changes to cattle markets

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

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

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

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

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

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

House passes amended Heroes Act

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

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

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

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

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

New soy-based product protects U.S. roads

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

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

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

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

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

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

Minnesota court dismisses lawsuit against meatpackers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senate approves continuing resolution: CR bill goes to Trump

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

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

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

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

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

Consumer expectations change as the pandemic enters a new season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA releases grain stocks report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FMI special midyear report outlines increased grocery purchases

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

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

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

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

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

Farmers to families food box program surpasses 100 million boxes delivered

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

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

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

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

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

USDA releases annual report showing GMO planted acres

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

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

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

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

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

Beijing asks frozen food importers to shun countries with severe coronavirus

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

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

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

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

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

US-UK trade talks progressing

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

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

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

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

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

Next Generation Fuels Act introduced in house

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

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

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

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

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

China officials downplay fears of grain shortages

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

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

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

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

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