The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals this week declined a rehearing request on its June dicamba decision. The decision leaves Bayer, Corteva and BASF with one final legal option to overturn the ruling vacating registration of dicamba herbicides: appealing to the Supreme Court. 

On June 3, the court vacated the registration for Bayer's XtendiMax, Corteva’s FeXapan and BASF’s Engenia, all dicamba-based herbicides. Last month, all three companies petitioned for a group of judges to rehear the case, known as a “rehearing in banc.” A statement from BASF to DTN says, “We are assessing additional legal options, including a challenge to the U.S. Supreme Court.” 

However, the ruling doesn’t apply to future registrations of dicamba herbicides, and the Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing whether or not to allow for its use in 2021. 

Earlier this month, a report from environmental groups stated, “EPA should not renew dicamba product registrations,” until further research shows dicamba formulations will not harm off-target plants.

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals this week declined a rehearing request on its June dicamba decision. The decision leaves Bayer, Corteva and BASF with one final legal option to overturn the ruling vacating registration of dicamba herbicides: appealing to the Supreme Court. On June 3, the court vacated the registration for Bayer's XtendiMax, Corteva’s FeXapan and BASF’s Engenia, all dicamba-based herbicides. Last month, all three companies petitioned for a group of judges to rehear the case, known as a “rehearing in banc.” A statement from BASF to DTN says, “We are assessing additional legal options, including a challenge to the U.S. Supreme Court.” However, the ruling doesn’t apply to future registrations of dicamba herbicides, and the Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing whether or not to allow for its use in 2021. Earlier this month, a report from environmental groups stated, “EPA should not renew dicamba product registrations,” until further research shows dicamba formulations will not harm off-target plants.

Appeals court rejects Dicamba rehearing request

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE IOWA GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

The Iowa Department of Agriculture says there are approximately 14 million acres of insured crops potentially damaged by the derecho storm a week ago. This includes 8.2 million acres of corn and 5.6 million acres of soybeans that may have been impacted by the storm. 

The storm destroyed several grain bins. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig adds, “the state has lost tens of millions of bushels of grain storage just a few weeks before harvest begins.” 

Scouts on the Pro Farmer Midwestern Crop Tour will report on some of the damages this week. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds requested near $4 billion in federal aid to assist farmers in a letter to President Donald Trump over the weekend. 

The President on Monday signed an emergency declaration for Iowa.&nbsp;&nbsp;The storm impacted nearly 37.7 million acres of farmland across the Midwest, with Iowa appearing to take the brunt of the storm.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE IOWA GOVERNOR’S OFFICEThe Iowa Department of Agriculture says there are approximately 14 million acres of insured crops potentially damaged by the derecho storm a week ago. This includes 8.2 million acres of corn and 5.6 million acres of soybeans that may have been impacted by the storm. The storm destroyed several grain bins. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig adds, “the state has lost tens of millions of bushels of grain storage just a few weeks before harvest begins.” Scouts on the Pro Farmer Midwestern Crop Tour will report on some of the damages this week. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds requested near $4 billion in federal aid to assist farmers in a letter to President Donald Trump over the weekend. The President on Monday signed an emergency declaration for Iowa.&nbsp;&nbsp;The storm impacted nearly 37.7 million acres of farmland across the Midwest, with Iowa appearing to take the brunt of the storm.

Iowa storm damage estimates

The U.S. and China have postponed a review of the Phase One trade deal as China continues to buy large amounts of U.S. farm commodities. The two sides were set to meet over the weekend, but the delay allows China more time to buy U.S. crops. 

However, the postponement arose over scheduling conflicts, according to Reuters. Saturday marked the six-month anniversary of the trade pact entering into force. 

President Donald Trump told reporters last week that the trade deal was "doing very well," without adding specifics. Recently, China has ramped up purchases, including a record purchase of sorghum last week of 32 million bushels. That sale topped the previous record set in 2014 of 23 million bushels purchased in one week. 

Further, the Department of Agriculture reports China purchased 126,000 metric tons of soybeans last week. However, trade experts say China is still behind the pace needed to meet levels of commodity purchases promised in the trade deal.

The U.S. and China have postponed a review of the Phase One trade deal as China continues to buy large amounts of U.S. farm commodities. The two sides were set to meet over the weekend, but the delay allows China more time to buy U.S. crops. However, the postponement arose over scheduling conflicts, according to Reuters. Saturday marked the six-month anniversary of the trade pact entering into force. President Donald Trump told reporters last week that the trade deal was "doing very well," without adding specifics. Recently, China has ramped up purchases, including a record purchase of sorghum last week of 32 million bushels. That sale topped the previous record set in 2014 of 23 million bushels purchased in one week. Further, the Department of Agriculture reports China purchased 126,000 metric tons of soybeans last week. However, trade experts say China is still behind the pace needed to meet levels of commodity purchases promised in the trade deal.

U.S., China, postpone trade deal review

The effects of COVID-19 continue to put pressure on the agricultural economy and weighed down farm finances in the Kansas City Fed’s Tenth District. Farm income declined in the second quarter of 2020 at its quickest pace since 2016, due in large part to weak market conditions for key agricultural commodities. 

Weakness in both farm income and borrower liquidity was expected to carry into the coming months. Agricultural credit conditions remained weak overall, but still relatively stable. The decrease in liquidity was consistent across all states, with a comparably higher share of banks in Nebraska reporting reduced short-term funds among borrowers. 

Looking ahead, bankers expect farm borrowers to have greater difficulty repaying loans. Some of the current stability in credit conditions may be attributed to government programs that provided revenue support and additional financing options for borrowers. 

Even before COVID-19, the USDA was already forecasting additional declines in working capital for the U.S. farm sector in 2020. Concern about drought is placing additional pressure on the western part of the Kansas City Fed’s District. A bigger share of bankers in the west expect farmers to have trouble paying back loans in the months ahead.

The effects of COVID-19 continue to put pressure on the agricultural economy and weighed down farm finances in the Kansas City Fed’s Tenth District. Farm income declined in the second quarter of 2020 at its quickest pace since 2016, due in large part to weak market conditions for key agricultural commodities. Weakness in both farm income and borrower liquidity was expected to carry into the coming months. Agricultural credit conditions remained weak overall, but still relatively stable. The decrease in liquidity was consistent across all states, with a comparably higher share of banks in Nebraska reporting reduced short-term funds among borrowers. Looking ahead, bankers expect farm borrowers to have greater difficulty repaying loans. Some of the current stability in credit conditions may be attributed to government programs that provided revenue support and additional financing options for borrowers. Even before COVID-19, the USDA was already forecasting additional declines in working capital for the U.S. farm sector in 2020. Concern about drought is placing additional pressure on the western part of the Kansas City Fed’s District. A bigger share of bankers in the west expect farmers to have trouble paying back loans in the months ahead.

COVID-19 continues pressure on farm finances in the second quarter

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service published data showing that the U.S. recently sold a record amount of sorghum. The sale of 32 million bushels topped the previous record week of 23 million bushels that was set in December of 2014. 

“U.S. sorghum farmers should be encouraged by these continued sales to China,” says National Sorghum Producers and Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. 

“We are making improvements to our crop not only from a yield and technology standpoint but also through quality measures that are translating directly to international buyers and noticeably-improved basis numbers across the country.” 

USDA says current marketing year sales totaled more than 286,000 metric tons, with 527,500 metric tons sold for the coming 2020-2021 marketing year. The recent one-week sale of 32 million bushels totaled about nine percent of total U.S. sorghum production this year. 

“The sales commitments are profound, and like any other high-demand situation, we expect to see basis increases enhance sorghum acres next year,” says Sorghum Checkoff Executive Director Florentino Lopez. 

While they’re working to enhance sales in China, the checkoff is also continuing to build future overseas markets in Vietnam, Kenya, and India.

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service published data showing that the U.S. recently sold a record amount of sorghum. The sale of 32 million bushels topped the previous record week of 23 million bushels that was set in December of 2014. “U.S. sorghum farmers should be encouraged by these continued sales to China,” says National Sorghum Producers and Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “We are making improvements to our crop not only from a yield and technology standpoint but also through quality measures that are translating directly to international buyers and noticeably-improved basis numbers across the country.” USDA says current marketing year sales totaled more than 286,000 metric tons, with 527,500 metric tons sold for the coming 2020-2021 marketing year. The recent one-week sale of 32 million bushels totaled about nine percent of total U.S. sorghum production this year. “The sales commitments are profound, and like any other high-demand situation, we expect to see basis increases enhance sorghum acres next year,” says Sorghum Checkoff Executive Director Florentino Lopez. While they’re working to enhance sales in China, the checkoff is also continuing to build future overseas markets in Vietnam, Kenya, and India.

China buys record amount of U.S. sorghum

Scouts are on the Pro Farmer Crop Tour trail this week to get a look at corn and soybean crops in the Midwest. They’ll also get a look at crop damages from the derecho&nbsp; storm a week ago. 

The violent thunderstorms traveled over 700 miles from Nebraska to Indiana. The storm was so powerful, as of last Thursday, more than 300,000 people hadn’t had power restored in northern Illinois and Iowa, which was the hardest-hit state. 

The Washington Post says the 70 mile-per-hour winds hit more than 10 million acres of corn and soybeans in Iowa, adding more difficulty to an already challenging year for farmers. 

Up to 43 percent of the state’s corn and soybean crop suffered some level of damage from the storms, a big blow to the $10 billion agriculture industry that anchors Iowa’s economy. The damage was so extensive that it was even visible on weather satellites that were used to track the storm. 

Meteorologist Steven Bowen said on Twitter that “This has all the makings of a billion-dollar impact on agriculture in Iowa and Illinois. With that said, it will take some time for farmers to determine how much of the downed crops are salvageable for harvest.”

Scouts are on the Pro Farmer Crop Tour trail this week to get a look at corn and soybean crops in the Midwest. They’ll also get a look at crop damages from the derecho&nbsp; storm a week ago. The violent thunderstorms traveled over 700 miles from Nebraska to Indiana. The storm was so powerful, as of last Thursday, more than 300,000 people hadn’t had power restored in northern Illinois and Iowa, which was the hardest-hit state. The Washington Post says the 70 mile-per-hour winds hit more than 10 million acres of corn and soybeans in Iowa, adding more difficulty to an already challenging year for farmers. Up to 43 percent of the state’s corn and soybean crop suffered some level of damage from the storms, a big blow to the $10 billion agriculture industry that anchors Iowa’s economy. The damage was so extensive that it was even visible on weather satellites that were used to track the storm. Meteorologist Steven Bowen said on Twitter that “This has all the makings of a billion-dollar impact on agriculture in Iowa and Illinois. With that said, it will take some time for farmers to determine how much of the downed crops are salvageable for harvest.”

Storm damage estimates in the Midwest still climbing

The U.S. Hemp Growers Association is happy to announce it will be involved in Farm Journal Field Days. The U.S. hemp industry is continuing to grow and advance, so they’ll be offering opportunities for farmers and hemp businesses to advance knowledge and contacts in hemp and provide resources for hemp growers. 

The USHGA is a nonprofit group dedicated to providing resources to farmers about the best agricultural practices for growing hemp, as well as information about the regulatory and legislative developments they need to know about. 

The group is also an information network for policymakers, researchers, and other industry stakeholders. “The U.S. Hemp Growers Association is excited to exhibit at Farm Journal Field Days,” says Caren Wilcox, the executive director of the association. 

“We believe events like this unite farmers nationwide and bring us closer to our mission of education and outreach.” Wilcox will give a policy update and Michael Bowman, Chair of the USHGA, will speak to attendees about the organization. Hemp growers will also be available at the booth.

The U.S. Hemp Growers Association is happy to announce it will be involved in Farm Journal Field Days. The U.S. hemp industry is continuing to grow and advance, so they’ll be offering opportunities for farmers and hemp businesses to advance knowledge and contacts in hemp and provide resources for hemp growers. The USHGA is a nonprofit group dedicated to providing resources to farmers about the best agricultural practices for growing hemp, as well as information about the regulatory and legislative developments they need to know about. The group is also an information network for policymakers, researchers, and other industry stakeholders. “The U.S. Hemp Growers Association is excited to exhibit at Farm Journal Field Days,” says Caren Wilcox, the executive director of the association. “We believe events like this unite farmers nationwide and bring us closer to our mission of education and outreach.” Wilcox will give a policy update and Michael Bowman, Chair of the USHGA, will speak to attendees about the organization. Hemp growers will also be available at the booth.

U.S. hemp growers association will be at Farm Journal field days

Massive oil refineries in the western United States are making an unexpected transition. They’re being converted into biofuel plants. 

Phillips 66 recently announced it will convert a California oil refinery into a biofuel plant as gas continues to lose some luster to fuels that come from agricultural and waste products. 

The company’s 120,000 barrel-a-day refinery near San Francisco will become the world’s biggest renewable diesel plant. Before that, fuel giant Marathon Petroleum Corporation announced it may be converting two refineries into renewable diesel plants. 

Back in June, Holly Frontier Corporation said it’s turning their Cheyenne, Wyoming refinery into a renewable diesel plant by 2022. Bloomberg says refiners are struggling with depressed demand and an uncertain future because of COVID-19. 

However, California may offer a pathway to staying in business because the demand for renewable diesel is surging throughout the state. 

An industry expert tells Bloomberg that there is “overcapacity” in the refining market. The basic question before refiners now is whether they shut down their plants or will they instead repurpose their operations? 

Nick Weinberg-Lynn of Phillips 66 says, “The California market for the renewable diesel product is the largest in the world.” Phillips will invest $700 million to $800 million in the conversion process.

Massive oil refineries in the western United States are making an unexpected transition. They’re being converted into biofuel plants. Phillips 66 recently announced it will convert a California oil refinery into a biofuel plant as gas continues to lose some luster to fuels that come from agricultural and waste products. The company’s 120,000 barrel-a-day refinery near San Francisco will become the world’s biggest renewable diesel plant. Before that, fuel giant Marathon Petroleum Corporation announced it may be converting two refineries into renewable diesel plants. Back in June, Holly Frontier Corporation said it’s turning their Cheyenne, Wyoming refinery into a renewable diesel plant by 2022. Bloomberg says refiners are struggling with depressed demand and an uncertain future because of COVID-19. However, California may offer a pathway to staying in business because the demand for renewable diesel is surging throughout the state. An industry expert tells Bloomberg that there is “overcapacity” in the refining market. The basic question before refiners now is whether they shut down their plants or will they instead repurpose their operations? Nick Weinberg-Lynn of Phillips 66 says, “The California market for the renewable diesel product is the largest in the world.” Phillips will invest $700 million to $800 million in the conversion process.

Western oil refineries are converting into biofuel plants

After months of steady increases, the prices consumers pay for their groceries dropped in July. The monthly Consumer Price Index says that was the first decline in the price of food since April of 2019. 

However, the decrease was less than half a percent and Americans are still paying more for food than they did in 2019. Prices in the last 12 months have risen 4.1 percent. COVID-19 forcing Americans to stay at home and cook more of their meals has driven up demand and prices at supermarkets. 

Prices for food that Americans typically eat at home is up almost five percent over the past year. The Detroit Free Press says meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, and cereals showed some of the sharpest increases seen in decades through April, May, and June. 

However, prices for those same products fell 3.8 percent in July. Beef prices dropped the most in July at 8.2 percent. Back in April, beef prices had soared over 10 percent, with cuts like beef roasts increasing 20 percent. 

While prices for specific cuts dropped in July, those prices are still 14 percent higher than last year. Dairy prices dropped 0.8 percent in July, the second-straight month of a decline.

After months of steady increases, the prices consumers pay for their groceries dropped in July. The monthly Consumer Price Index says that was the first decline in the price of food since April of 2019. However, the decrease was less than half a percent and Americans are still paying more for food than they did in 2019. Prices in the last 12 months have risen 4.1 percent. COVID-19 forcing Americans to stay at home and cook more of their meals has driven up demand and prices at supermarkets. Prices for food that Americans typically eat at home is up almost five percent over the past year. The Detroit Free Press says meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, and cereals showed some of the sharpest increases seen in decades through April, May, and June. However, prices for those same products fell 3.8 percent in July. Beef prices dropped the most in July at 8.2 percent. Back in April, beef prices had soared over 10 percent, with cuts like beef roasts increasing 20 percent. While prices for specific cuts dropped in July, those prices are still 14 percent higher than last year. Dairy prices dropped 0.8 percent in July, the second-straight month of a decline.

Food prices decline in July

The White House’s top economic adviser Larry Kudlow says the U.S. and China trade deal is in “fine shape.” He notes that China is continuing to buy U.S. goods, particularly commodities, under the Phase One trade deal with the U.S. Reuters says the purchases are happening despite tensions over Hong Kong and other issues between the two nations.

 Kudlow denied that deteriorating ties between the two countries on other issues would lead to the trade deal being scrapped. “The one area we are engaged in is trade,” he said to reporters at the White House. “it’s fine right now.” Top U.S. and Chinese officials will meet for a “routine” video conference on Saturday to assess the implementation of the Phase One agreement six months into its existence. 

The deal diffused a trade war that impacted both of the nations as well as the global economy. Kudlow, Director of the White House National Economic Council, says, “The evidence shows they’ve stepped up purchases substantially.” Despite what Kudlow says are “really good numbers,” China remains far short of its overall purchasing target for 2020. 

The U.S. exported $7.2 billion in agricultural goods to China in the first half of 2020, far below the $36.5 billion they agreed to under the trade deal.

The White House’s top economic adviser Larry Kudlow says the U.S. and China trade deal is in “fine shape.” He notes that China is continuing to buy U.S. goods, particularly commodities, under the Phase One trade deal with the U.S. Reuters says the purchases are happening despite tensions over Hong Kong and other issues between the two nations. Kudlow denied that deteriorating ties between the two countries on other issues would lead to the trade deal being scrapped. “The one area we are engaged in is trade,” he said to reporters at the White House. “it’s fine right now.” Top U.S. and Chinese officials will meet for a “routine” video conference on Saturday to assess the implementation of the Phase One agreement six months into its existence. The deal diffused a trade war that impacted both of the nations as well as the global economy. Kudlow, Director of the White House National Economic Council, says, “The evidence shows they’ve stepped up purchases substantially.” Despite what Kudlow says are “really good numbers,” China remains far short of its overall purchasing target for 2020. The U.S. exported $7.2 billion in agricultural goods to China in the first half of 2020, far below the $36.5 billion they agreed to under the trade deal.

Kudlow: U.S.-China trade deal in “fine shape”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer rarely gets involved in agricultural issues. However, the Hagstrom Report says he asked Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue to delay issuing a U.S. Domestic Hemp Production final rule until 2022. 

That move would allow hemp growers and producers in his home state of New York and across the country to continue to operate under the 2014 Farm Bill Pilot Program until that time. 

Schumer notes that COVID-19 is a solid reason for the delay. He also knows about some criticism for the interim final rule and says a delay “will allow USDA to address some of the more pressing regulatory critiques while giving states and producers additional time to come into compliance.” 

Allan Gandleman is President of the New York Cannabis Growers and Processors Association. He says the more than 700 registered hemp farmers in Schumer’s home state of New York would be negatively affected by USDA’s interim final rule on hemp.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer rarely gets involved in agricultural issues. However, the Hagstrom Report says he asked Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue to delay issuing a U.S. Domestic Hemp Production final rule until 2022. That move would allow hemp growers and producers in his home state of New York and across the country to continue to operate under the 2014 Farm Bill Pilot Program until that time. Schumer notes that COVID-19 is a solid reason for the delay. He also knows about some criticism for the interim final rule and says a delay “will allow USDA to address some of the more pressing regulatory critiques while giving states and producers additional time to come into compliance.” Allan Gandleman is President of the New York Cannabis Growers and Processors Association. He says the more than 700 registered hemp farmers in Schumer’s home state of New York would be negatively affected by USDA’s interim final rule on hemp.

Schumer asks Perdue to delay hemp regulations

U.S. farmers are expected to harvest a lot of corn and soybeans this year. The August World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report says corn production is forecast at a record-high of 15.3 billion bushels, up 278 million from last month. The season’s first survey-based corn yield forecast is at a record 181.8 bushels per acre, up 3.3 bushels from last month’s trend-based projection. 

Corn ending stocks rose more than 100 million bushels to 2.76 billion. The season-average corn price dropped 25 cents to $3.10 a bushel. The soybean production forecast is 4.42 billion bushels, up 290 million bushels on expected higher yields. The yield forecast is at a record 53.3 bushels per acre, up 3.5 bushels from last month. 

Soybean ending stocks rose 185 million bushels higher from last month to 610 million bushels in the August report. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $8.35 a bushel, 15 cents lower than in July. U.S. wheat production jumped 14 million bushels to 1.84 billion. Wheat ending stocks dropped by 17 million bushels to 925 million, and if realized, that would be the lowest ending stocks in six years. 

The U.S. season-average farm price dropped by a dime to $4.50 a bushel. The first cotton production forecast of the year is 18.1 million bales, nine percent lower than last year. Yield is expected to be a record high of 928 pounds per acre.

U.S. farmers are expected to harvest a lot of corn and soybeans this year. The August World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report says corn production is forecast at a record-high of 15.3 billion bushels, up 278 million from last month. The season’s first survey-based corn yield forecast is at a record 181.8 bushels per acre, up 3.3 bushels from last month’s trend-based projection. Corn ending stocks rose more than 100 million bushels to 2.76 billion. The season-average corn price dropped 25 cents to $3.10 a bushel. The soybean production forecast is 4.42 billion bushels, up 290 million bushels on expected higher yields. The yield forecast is at a record 53.3 bushels per acre, up 3.5 bushels from last month. Soybean ending stocks rose 185 million bushels higher from last month to 610 million bushels in the August report. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $8.35 a bushel, 15 cents lower than in July. U.S. wheat production jumped 14 million bushels to 1.84 billion. Wheat ending stocks dropped by 17 million bushels to 925 million, and if realized, that would be the lowest ending stocks in six years. The U.S. season-average farm price dropped by a dime to $4.50 a bushel. The first cotton production forecast of the year is 18.1 million bales, nine percent lower than last year. Yield is expected to be a record high of 928 pounds per acre.

Corn and soybean harvest expected to set records in August WASDE

Despite an unprecedented downturn in U.S.-China relations during a pandemic, U.S. businesses are not leaving the China market.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The U.S.-China Business Council released its annual survey of members Tuesday, which shows nearly 70 percent expressing optimism about the commercial prospects of the market, and 87 percent of companies reporting that they have no plans to shift production out of China. 

But those numbers contradict a trend of progressively diminishing optimism in the short- to medium-term prospects of the China market. One-quarter of member companies have reduced or stopped planned investment in China in the last year. 

The top reasons were increased costs or uncertainties from U.S.-China tensions and uncertainty stemming from COVID-19. 

Full implementation of the Phase One trade agreement is one way to restore confidence as 88 percent of respondents have a positive or somewhat positive view of the agreement, namely because it put a lid on escalating tariffs and added an element of stability to the bilateral relationship.

Despite an unprecedented downturn in U.S.-China relations during a pandemic, U.S. businesses are not leaving the China market.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S.-China Business Council released its annual survey of members Tuesday, which shows nearly 70 percent expressing optimism about the commercial prospects of the market, and 87 percent of companies reporting that they have no plans to shift production out of China. But those numbers contradict a trend of progressively diminishing optimism in the short- to medium-term prospects of the China market. One-quarter of member companies have reduced or stopped planned investment in China in the last year. The top reasons were increased costs or uncertainties from U.S.-China tensions and uncertainty stemming from COVID-19. Full implementation of the Phase One trade agreement is one way to restore confidence as 88 percent of respondents have a positive or somewhat positive view of the agreement, namely because it put a lid on escalating tariffs and added an element of stability to the bilateral relationship.

Pandemic and politics aside, U.S.-China trade ties continue, for now

A group of lawmakers offers thanks to the Department of Agriculture for diligently investigating unsolicited seeds sent to U.S. residents. Led by Representative Jodey Arrington, a Texas Republican, a group of 20 lawmakers sent a bipartisan letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week. 

The letter thanks USDA for their collaboration at the local, state, and federal level and continuing efforts to protect the nation’s food security. The letter states, “We encourage USDA to take seriously the potential risks associated with the illegal entry of these seeds as the agency carries out its security and bioterrorism preparedness efforts.” 

The lawmakers urge USDA to “continue collaborating with all relevant agencies to develop a plan of action to improve the detection of potential bioterrorism threats.” 

The unsolicited seeds, sent to residents of the U.S., Canada, and elsewhere, are thought to be part of a brushing scam that sellers use to boost reviews for products online.

A group of lawmakers offers thanks to the Department of Agriculture for diligently investigating unsolicited seeds sent to U.S. residents. Led by Representative Jodey Arrington, a Texas Republican, a group of 20 lawmakers sent a bipartisan letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week. The letter thanks USDA for their collaboration at the local, state, and federal level and continuing efforts to protect the nation’s food security. The letter states, “We encourage USDA to take seriously the potential risks associated with the illegal entry of these seeds as the agency carries out its security and bioterrorism preparedness efforts.” The lawmakers urge USDA to “continue collaborating with all relevant agencies to develop a plan of action to improve the detection of potential bioterrorism threats.” The unsolicited seeds, sent to residents of the U.S., Canada, and elsewhere, are thought to be part of a brushing scam that sellers use to boost reviews for products online.

Lawmakers praise USDA response to unsolicited seeds

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday added additional commodities to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. 

USDA also extended the deadline to September 11 for producers to apply for the program, a request by agriculture organizations. The changes follow USDA review of more than 1,700 responses from the public. 

The announcement expands the types of specialty crops covered under the program, as well as liquid eggs, frozen eggs and all sheep, and aquaculture and horticulture products. 

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue says the announcement shows, "President Trump is standing with America's farmers and ranchers to ensure they get through this pandemic." 

USDA says the changes will give more farmers and ranchers the opportunity for assistance to help keep operations afloat. Farm groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, requested the changes in a recent letter to Secretary Perdue. The coalition cited the low number of participants and that roughly half of the near $16 billion of aid is still available.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday added additional commodities to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. USDA also extended the deadline to September 11 for producers to apply for the program, a request by agriculture organizations. The changes follow USDA review of more than 1,700 responses from the public. The announcement expands the types of specialty crops covered under the program, as well as liquid eggs, frozen eggs and all sheep, and aquaculture and horticulture products. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue says the announcement shows, "President Trump is standing with America's farmers and ranchers to ensure they get through this pandemic." USDA says the changes will give more farmers and ranchers the opportunity for assistance to help keep operations afloat. Farm groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, requested the changes in a recent letter to Secretary Perdue. The coalition cited the low number of participants and that roughly half of the near $16 billion of aid is still available.

USDA announces more eligible commodities for CFAP

House Agriculture Committee members seek more Coronavirus Food Assistance Program relief for specialty crop growers. The group recently sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue with the request. 

Led by Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, A Democrat from the U.S. Virgin Islands, the lawmakers say, “The direct payment program under CFAP has failed to provide equitable relief to the specialty crop sector.” 

The lawmakers say the funds have been particularly difficult to access for specialty crop farmers who are young, socially disadvantaged, or rely on local markets with diversified production practices. 

As of August 3, 2020, USDA had provided more than $6.8 billion in direct payments to domestic farmers and ranchers.&nbsp; 

Out of that total, only $270 million has been provided to specialty crop producers, representing less than four percent of overall assistance. To remedy the issue, the lawmakers requested, “USDA must do more to assist the specialty crop sector, particularly those farmers who are young, socially disadvantaged, or sell into local markets.”

House Agriculture Committee members seek more Coronavirus Food Assistance Program relief for specialty crop growers. The group recently sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue with the request. Led by Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, A Democrat from the U.S. Virgin Islands, the lawmakers say, “The direct payment program under CFAP has failed to provide equitable relief to the specialty crop sector.” The lawmakers say the funds have been particularly difficult to access for specialty crop farmers who are young, socially disadvantaged, or rely on local markets with diversified production practices. As of August 3, 2020, USDA had provided more than $6.8 billion in direct payments to domestic farmers and ranchers.&nbsp; Out of that total, only $270 million has been provided to specialty crop producers, representing less than four percent of overall assistance. To remedy the issue, the lawmakers requested, “USDA must do more to assist the specialty crop sector, particularly those farmers who are young, socially disadvantaged, or sell into local markets.”

House ag committee seeks specialty crop relief

Fuel prices are moving lower as the summer driving season comes to an end. The national average price of gasoline fell 1.1 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.16, according to GasBuddy. 

The national average price of diesel has decreased one cent and stands at $2.41 per gallon over the same period. 

Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “as summer begins to fade, demand recovery may be limited,” adding, “demand weakens into the autumn, and as the coronavirus situation keeps more kids home and more parents from work, we may see a drop in gas prices as we progress through fall.” 

Crude oil prices have remained stable over the last six weeks. Some optimism has been returning to the oil patch in the last week as the number of new coronavirus cases in the world’s largest oil consumer have been slowing down, providing a catalyst as hopes rise for U.S. demand to continue recovery, and crude oil inventories fell 7.4 million barrels.

Fuel prices are moving lower as the summer driving season comes to an end. The national average price of gasoline fell 1.1 cents per gallon over the last week to $2.16, according to GasBuddy. The national average price of diesel has decreased one cent and stands at $2.41 per gallon over the same period. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy says, “as summer begins to fade, demand recovery may be limited,” adding, “demand weakens into the autumn, and as the coronavirus situation keeps more kids home and more parents from work, we may see a drop in gas prices as we progress through fall.” Crude oil prices have remained stable over the last six weeks. Some optimism has been returning to the oil patch in the last week as the number of new coronavirus cases in the world’s largest oil consumer have been slowing down, providing a catalyst as hopes rise for U.S. demand to continue recovery, and crude oil inventories fell 7.4 million barrels.

Fuel prices decreasing on limited demand recovery

Canadian Agriculture officials warn residents not to plant unsolicited seeds delivered from China, the same seeds sent to the United States. 

In a statement last week, The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has received reports from more than 750 residents who have received unsolicited seeds. 

The seeds are likely part of a brushing scam, where scammers send unsolicited products to residents and then write a fake positive review of the product, the same brushing scam in the United States. 

The CFIA continues to work with the Canada Border Services Agency and Canada Post and its international partners to identify the seed origins and stop the flow of unsolicited seeds into Canada. 

The CFIA asks Canadians who receive seeds they did not order to put the seeds in a sealed bag and send them to a regional CFIA office, while also refrain from planting, flushing or composting the seeds to prevent spreading.

Canadian Agriculture officials warn residents not to plant unsolicited seeds delivered from China, the same seeds sent to the United States. In a statement last week, The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has received reports from more than 750 residents who have received unsolicited seeds. The seeds are likely part of a brushing scam, where scammers send unsolicited products to residents and then write a fake positive review of the product, the same brushing scam in the United States. The CFIA continues to work with the Canada Border Services Agency and Canada Post and its international partners to identify the seed origins and stop the flow of unsolicited seeds into Canada. The CFIA asks Canadians who receive seeds they did not order to put the seeds in a sealed bag and send them to a regional CFIA office, while also refrain from planting, flushing or composting the seeds to prevent spreading.

Canada also receiving unsolicited seeds

A total of 28 agricultural organizations are asking the USDA to extend the application deadline for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. The groups sent a letter to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue asking that the deadline be pushed past August 28, 2020. 

The funding, approved through the CARES Act, is providing much-needed financial support to livestock, dairy, non-specialty, and specialty crop producers. 

The letter says the current deadline “may exclude producers from participating in the program, including producers of commodities that were recently added to the list of eligible commodities, as well as those commodities likely to become eligible through the Notice of Funding Availability process.” 

Along with extending the deadline, the letter strongly encourages the USDA to increase producer and stakeholder engagement initiatives. The 499,156 applications received so far makeup just 24 percent of all the eligible farm operations. 

Several commodities have extremely low participation rates, including carrots, oranges, tomatoes, and apples. Those numbers may indicate many farmers aren’t aware that they qualify for CFAP assistance.

A total of 28 agricultural organizations are asking the USDA to extend the application deadline for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. The groups sent a letter to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue asking that the deadline be pushed past August 28, 2020. The funding, approved through the CARES Act, is providing much-needed financial support to livestock, dairy, non-specialty, and specialty crop producers. The letter says the current deadline “may exclude producers from participating in the program, including producers of commodities that were recently added to the list of eligible commodities, as well as those commodities likely to become eligible through the Notice of Funding Availability process.” Along with extending the deadline, the letter strongly encourages the USDA to increase producer and stakeholder engagement initiatives. The 499,156 applications received so far makeup just 24 percent of all the eligible farm operations. Several commodities have extremely low participation rates, including carrots, oranges, tomatoes, and apples. Those numbers may indicate many farmers aren’t aware that they qualify for CFAP assistance.

Ag groups say farmers need more time to access aid

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor thanks members of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus for their efforts to deliver long-overdue relief for biofuels in the next round of COVID-19 relief. The effort is being led by Collin Peterson of Minnesota, Rodney Davis of Illinois, Dave Loebsack of Iowa, and Roger Marshall of Kansas. 

Members of the caucus sent a letter to House and Senate leadership calling for negotiators to adopt “language explicitly directing” relief to producers and processors of renewable fuels. 

“We’re grateful for our congressional champions who are working overtime to stop the bleeding and offer hope for farm communities,” says Skor.&nbsp;&nbsp;“With continued uncertainty around COVID-19, and states like California, Texas, and Florida returning to lockdown, the stakes are far too high to leave any stone unturned.” 

She’s asking congressional leaders to “work quickly” to protect rural jobs and give rural America the certainty it needs to rebuild the country’s agricultural supply chain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Direct assistance was included in the House-passed HEROS Act, as well as in bipartisan legislation introduced in the Senate. House and Senate lawmakers will try to hammer out the final deal this month.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor thanks members of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus for their efforts to deliver long-overdue relief for biofuels in the next round of COVID-19 relief. The effort is being led by Collin Peterson of Minnesota, Rodney Davis of Illinois, Dave Loebsack of Iowa, and Roger Marshall of Kansas. Members of the caucus sent a letter to House and Senate leadership calling for negotiators to adopt “language explicitly directing” relief to producers and processors of renewable fuels. “We’re grateful for our congressional champions who are working overtime to stop the bleeding and offer hope for farm communities,” says Skor.&nbsp;&nbsp;“With continued uncertainty around COVID-19, and states like California, Texas, and Florida returning to lockdown, the stakes are far too high to leave any stone unturned.” She’s asking congressional leaders to “work quickly” to protect rural jobs and give rural America the certainty it needs to rebuild the country’s agricultural supply chain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Direct assistance was included in the House-passed HEROS Act, as well as in bipartisan legislation introduced in the Senate. House and Senate lawmakers will try to hammer out the final deal this month.

Growth Energy applauds house push for biofuel relief

June pork exports fell below year-ago levels, the first time that’s happened in 2020. However, pork exports remain at a record pace. Data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows that beef exports were down sharply from last year during June. 

That drop reflects the lingering impact of a temporary slowdown in beef production combined with restrictions on foodservice and weakening economies in major import markets. 

June’s lamb exports trended higher. “We expected the interruptions in red meat production would continue to weigh on June exports, but anticipated more of a rebound from the low May totals, particularly in beef,” says USMEF President Dan Halstrom. 

June pork exports hit 207,181 metric tons, three percent lower than last year, while export value dropped nine percent to $516.3 million. Despite the decline, first-half pork exports were 24 percent ahead of last year’s record pace in volume and 29 percent higher in value. 

June beef exports were close to the May lows, down 33 percent from last year at just-over 79,000 metric tons, with value dropping 32 percent to $492 million. June lamb exports hit the second-largest total of 2020 at 2,229 metric tons, 113 percent higher than a year ago.

June pork exports fell below year-ago levels, the first time that’s happened in 2020. However, pork exports remain at a record pace. Data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows that beef exports were down sharply from last year during June. That drop reflects the lingering impact of a temporary slowdown in beef production combined with restrictions on foodservice and weakening economies in major import markets. June’s lamb exports trended higher. “We expected the interruptions in red meat production would continue to weigh on June exports, but anticipated more of a rebound from the low May totals, particularly in beef,” says USMEF President Dan Halstrom. June pork exports hit 207,181 metric tons, three percent lower than last year, while export value dropped nine percent to $516.3 million. Despite the decline, first-half pork exports were 24 percent ahead of last year’s record pace in volume and 29 percent higher in value. June beef exports were close to the May lows, down 33 percent from last year at just-over 79,000 metric tons, with value dropping 32 percent to $492 million. June lamb exports hit the second-largest total of 2020 at 2,229 metric tons, 113 percent higher than a year ago.

Pork exports lower, beef exports struggle during June

Environmental groups say the Environmental Protection Agency should not renew over-the-top dicamba use without further independent research. 

A new report from the National Wildlife Federation and others suggest dicamba herbicides "pose serious threats to wild plants and the wildlife that depend upon them."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The report says the EPA should not renew over-the-top product registrations unless and until independent research shows with certainty that dicamba formulations will not cause off-target injury to crops and wild plants, including from vapor drift.&nbsp; 

The groups say there is mounting evidence suggests that current dicamba products and uses are causing unreasonable adverse effects on the environment, even when used as specified on the labels. 

The report advocates for diversifying weed management strategies to improve resilience, including choosing crop varieties that are competitive with weeds, adjusting planting dates and depths of crops to help get ahead of weed growth, and managing nutrients in ways that give crops the competitive edge.

Environmental groups say the Environmental Protection Agency should not renew over-the-top dicamba use without further independent research. A new report from the National Wildlife Federation and others suggest dicamba herbicides "pose serious threats to wild plants and the wildlife that depend upon them."&nbsp;&nbsp;The report says the EPA should not renew over-the-top product registrations unless and until independent research shows with certainty that dicamba formulations will not cause off-target injury to crops and wild plants, including from vapor drift.&nbsp; The groups say there is mounting evidence suggests that current dicamba products and uses are causing unreasonable adverse effects on the environment, even when used as specified on the labels. The report advocates for diversifying weed management strategies to improve resilience, including choosing crop varieties that are competitive with weeds, adjusting planting dates and depths of crops to help get ahead of weed growth, and managing nutrients in ways that give crops the competitive edge.

Environmental groups: EPA should not approve Dicamba without further research

Rodney Davis, a Republican U.S. Representative from Illinois, has tested positive for COVID-19. In a letter on his website, Davis says, “Other than a higher-than-normal temperature, I am showing no symptoms at this time and feel fine.” 

Davis tested positive Wednesday morning after discovering a higher than normal temperature. Davis is a member of the House Agriculture Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and is Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. 

He had recently voiced his concerns to Congress that members follow Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Davis says throughout the pandemic, he’s done twice daily temperature checks, “because serving in Congress means I interact with many people, and it’s my duty to protect the health of those I serve.” 

Having consulted with the Office of the Attending Physician of Congress and local county health officials, his office is contacting constituents Davis met with in-person within the previous 48 hours before his test, per CDC guidelines.

Rodney Davis, a Republican U.S. Representative from Illinois, has tested positive for COVID-19. In a letter on his website, Davis says, “Other than a higher-than-normal temperature, I am showing no symptoms at this time and feel fine.” Davis tested positive Wednesday morning after discovering a higher than normal temperature. Davis is a member of the House Agriculture Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and is Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. He had recently voiced his concerns to Congress that members follow Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Davis says throughout the pandemic, he’s done twice daily temperature checks, “because serving in Congress means I interact with many people, and it’s my duty to protect the health of those I serve.” Having consulted with the Office of the Attending Physician of Congress and local county health officials, his office is contacting constituents Davis met with in-person within the previous 48 hours before his test, per CDC guidelines.

House ag member tests positive for COVID-19

Large U.S. ending corn stocks could swell even larger this fall, and not just because of increased yields. A bumper crop combined with diminished demand due to the pandemic could boost new crop ending U.S. stocks to the highest level in 33 years. 

A new survey by Farm Futures found 2020 corn yield projections to increase 11.5 bushels per acre from 2019 to 178.9. 

Based on updated acreage estimates from The Department of Agriculture's June Acreage report, Farm Futures' 2020 corn yield estimate would raise 2020 corn production to 15.03 billion bushels, 32 million bushels higher than July 2020 World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates. 

Soybean yield prospects are also more favorable than last year. Growers estimated 2020 yields at 51.0 bushels per acre, up 3.6 from 2019. If realized, that would put 2020 soybean production at 4.233 billion bushels, 98 million bushels higher than July 2020 WASDE projections and 19 percent higher than 2019 production.&nbsp; 

Farm Futures surveyed 1,044 respondents on July 14-27 via an email questionnaire.

Large U.S. ending corn stocks could swell even larger this fall, and not just because of increased yields. A bumper crop combined with diminished demand due to the pandemic could boost new crop ending U.S. stocks to the highest level in 33 years. A new survey by Farm Futures found 2020 corn yield projections to increase 11.5 bushels per acre from 2019 to 178.9. Based on updated acreage estimates from The Department of Agriculture's June Acreage report, Farm Futures' 2020 corn yield estimate would raise 2020 corn production to 15.03 billion bushels, 32 million bushels higher than July 2020 World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates. Soybean yield prospects are also more favorable than last year. Growers estimated 2020 yields at 51.0 bushels per acre, up 3.6 from 2019. If realized, that would put 2020 soybean production at 4.233 billion bushels, 98 million bushels higher than July 2020 WASDE projections and 19 percent higher than 2019 production.&nbsp; Farm Futures surveyed 1,044 respondents on July 14-27 via an email questionnaire.

Farm futures releases 2020 producer crop forecast

The American Soybean Association returned to its birthplace to celebrate its 100th year of existence. The group celebrated a century of coordinated efforts and ensuring successes on behalf of U.S. growers. 

With support from the Indiana Soybean Alliance and the family who helped to launch one of the nation’s strongest agricultural advocacy offices, ASA celebrated its 100th anniversary on the Indiana farm where it all started. The celebration included a small but significant historical marker dedication and tours of heirloom soybean plots. 

ASA first formed when the three Fouts brothers hosted their first Corn Belt Soybean Field Day at their “Soyland Farms” operation in Camden, Indiana, on September 3rd of 1920. That event drew nearly 1,000 farmers and their families from six states, all of whom were interested in learning more about an emerging new commodity called soybeans. 

The National Soybean Growers’ Association, later renamed the American Soybean Association, was formed that very day. The outdoor dedication ceremony was streamed live across the country for soy supporters to celebrate safely around the nation.

The American Soybean Association returned to its birthplace to celebrate its 100th year of existence. The group celebrated a century of coordinated efforts and ensuring successes on behalf of U.S. growers. With support from the Indiana Soybean Alliance and the family who helped to launch one of the nation’s strongest agricultural advocacy offices, ASA celebrated its 100th anniversary on the Indiana farm where it all started. The celebration included a small but significant historical marker dedication and tours of heirloom soybean plots. ASA first formed when the three Fouts brothers hosted their first Corn Belt Soybean Field Day at their “Soyland Farms” operation in Camden, Indiana, on September 3rd of 1920. That event drew nearly 1,000 farmers and their families from six states, all of whom were interested in learning more about an emerging new commodity called soybeans. The National Soybean Growers’ Association, later renamed the American Soybean Association, was formed that very day. The outdoor dedication ceremony was streamed live across the country for soy supporters to celebrate safely around the nation.