Reuters says the coronavirus outbreak is disrupting the global food supply chain and causing labor shortages in agriculture around the world. 

Panic buying by shoppers cleared supermarket shelves, creating a perception of food shortages. 

However, retailers and authorities say there are no underlying shortages and supplies of most products will be replenished. 

The logistics for getting food from the field to the plate are feeling the effects of COVID-19. In the short term, the lack of air freight and trucker shortages are slowing down fresh food deliveries. In the longer term, Reuters says a lack of available labor will affect planting and harvesting. If it goes on long enough, it could cause some shortages and rising prices for staple crops. 

As spring starts in Europe, farmers are trying to find enough workers to pick strawberries and asparagus, after border closures shut down the usual flow for migrant labor. 

Wide-scale crop losses are likely in India as a lockdown has sent large numbers of workers home, leaving farms and markets short as staple crops like wheat are almost ready for harvest. Food firms typically buy supplies in advance. However, long-term rising commodity prices will eventually be passed on to consumers.

Reuters says the coronavirus outbreak is disrupting the global food supply chain and causing labor shortages in agriculture around the world. Panic buying by shoppers cleared supermarket shelves, creating a perception of food shortages. However, retailers and authorities say there are no underlying shortages and supplies of most products will be replenished. The logistics for getting food from the field to the plate are feeling the effects of COVID-19. In the short term, the lack of air freight and trucker shortages are slowing down fresh food deliveries. In the longer term, Reuters says a lack of available labor will affect planting and harvesting. If it goes on long enough, it could cause some shortages and rising prices for staple crops. As spring starts in Europe, farmers are trying to find enough workers to pick strawberries and asparagus, after border closures shut down the usual flow for migrant labor. Wide-scale crop losses are likely in India as a lockdown has sent large numbers of workers home, leaving farms and markets short as staple crops like wheat are almost ready for harvest. Food firms typically buy supplies in advance. However, long-term rising commodity prices will eventually be passed on to consumers.

Coronavirus disrupting global food chain

A group of dairy organizations wrote a letter this week to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue and asked the USDA to help the struggling dairy industry. 

They want the agency to use its extensive purchasing power given to it by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Security Act, to alleviate at least some of the stress on the U.S. dairy industry. 

Approximately 80 percent of Americans are under orders to shelter in their homes. That means hundreds of thousands of restaurants, schools, and other foodservice outlets have either significantly reduced their offerings or shut down. That means cheese and butter manufacturers have lost their largest market segments. 

While retail sales have increased during recent weeks, those sales are now leveling off and orders are slowing down. Overseas markets have been decimated. The letter to Secretary Perdue asks USDA to focus on purchases of nonfat dry milk, as well as cheese, including cheddar, mozzarella, and other Italian-style cheese. 

They’re also asking USDA to look at different ways they have available to make farmers whole for the milk they’ve produced, but had to dispose of, or received drastically reduced payments. Some of the groups signing onto the letter include the Wisconsin Cheese Makers, Dairy Business Association, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, and the Wisconsin Farmers Union.

A group of dairy organizations wrote a letter this week to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue and asked the USDA to help the struggling dairy industry. They want the agency to use its extensive purchasing power given to it by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Security Act, to alleviate at least some of the stress on the U.S. dairy industry. Approximately 80 percent of Americans are under orders to shelter in their homes. That means hundreds of thousands of restaurants, schools, and other foodservice outlets have either significantly reduced their offerings or shut down. That means cheese and butter manufacturers have lost their largest market segments. While retail sales have increased during recent weeks, those sales are now leveling off and orders are slowing down. Overseas markets have been decimated. The letter to Secretary Perdue asks USDA to focus on purchases of nonfat dry milk, as well as cheese, including cheddar, mozzarella, and other Italian-style cheese. They’re also asking USDA to look at different ways they have available to make farmers whole for the milk they’ve produced, but had to dispose of, or received drastically reduced payments. Some of the groups signing onto the letter include the Wisconsin Cheese Makers, Dairy Business Association, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, and the Wisconsin Farmers Union.

Dairy groups ask USDA for food purchases, dairy farmer relief

The Prospective Planting report released this week by the Department of Agriculture indicates an 11 percent increase in sorghum acres for 2020. 

However, National Sorghum Producers says there is greater opportunity for increased sorghum acres in the United States for the 2020-2021 marketing year. 

When the analysis was conducted in February, sorghum prices did not reflect basis appreciation from export sales that occurred since that time. Significant purchase activity by China, approaching one million metric tons over the last seven weeks, has driven basis improvements, and these purchases account for roughly ten percent of the sorghum produced last year. 

Today, sorghum for export commands a 13 percent premium. These gains have been seen at interior country elevators, as well, with new crop basis gains of $0.20-$0.40 in the past two weeks.&nbsp; With these factors in mind, NSP says both domestic and international demand will continue to drive sorghum acres this spring.

The Prospective Planting report released this week by the Department of Agriculture indicates an 11 percent increase in sorghum acres for 2020. However, National Sorghum Producers says there is greater opportunity for increased sorghum acres in the United States for the 2020-2021 marketing year. When the analysis was conducted in February, sorghum prices did not reflect basis appreciation from export sales that occurred since that time. Significant purchase activity by China, approaching one million metric tons over the last seven weeks, has driven basis improvements, and these purchases account for roughly ten percent of the sorghum produced last year. Today, sorghum for export commands a 13 percent premium. These gains have been seen at interior country elevators, as well, with new crop basis gains of $0.20-$0.40 in the past two weeks.&nbsp; With these factors in mind, NSP says both domestic and international demand will continue to drive sorghum acres this spring.

National sorghum producers predicts more acres than USDA estimate

A coalition of lawmakers is asking the Health and Human Services Department to provide immediate assistance to rural hospitals and clinics. 

In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, 122 lawmakers asked the Trump administration to provide financial aid included in the CARES Act to help rural hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak. 

The legislation includes new funding to provide financial relief for hospitals. The lawmakers point out that many rural hospitals have ceased performing elective procedures and seeing non-urgent patients. 

Lawmakers say the rural hospitals know the COVID-19 emergency confronting the U.S. must take precedence. However, these actions threaten rural hospitals’ financial viability. 

The letter states, “We are hearing from rural hospitals from across the country that have only days left of cash-on-hand – money needed for payroll and supplies.” The lawmakers say, “now it is up to the administration to respond with rapid action to sustain rural providers,” adding “any unnecessary delay will only worsen this situation.”

A coalition of lawmakers is asking the Health and Human Services Department to provide immediate assistance to rural hospitals and clinics. In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, 122 lawmakers asked the Trump administration to provide financial aid included in the CARES Act to help rural hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak. The legislation includes new funding to provide financial relief for hospitals. The lawmakers point out that many rural hospitals have ceased performing elective procedures and seeing non-urgent patients. Lawmakers say the rural hospitals know the COVID-19 emergency confronting the U.S. must take precedence. However, these actions threaten rural hospitals’ financial viability. The letter states, “We are hearing from rural hospitals from across the country that have only days left of cash-on-hand – money needed for payroll and supplies.” The lawmakers say, “now it is up to the administration to respond with rapid action to sustain rural providers,” adding “any unnecessary delay will only worsen this situation.”

Lawmakers ask health department to send aid to rural hospitals

Grocery stores and the food chain across the nation are adapting to the new normal, with shelter in place and work from home orders across the county. 

Doug Baker, industry relations vice president at The Food Industry Association, says in a blog post, "the industry is rewriting the playbook on crisis response in real-time.” 

To heighten personal safety and engender a deeper comfort level among associates and shoppers, retailers are using various tactics in their stores to implement the protocol of maintaining safe social distance. Every store looks different, so the measures retailers are taking vary depending on the unique needs of their setting. 

For example, some retailers are putting up stanchions and floor decals to indicate where shoppers should stand to help them measure the appropriate amount of space in queues and depending on the store. Additionally, stores are piloting “pick-up only” at some facilities. Baker adds, “Our industry is at its best when the public needs us the most.”

Grocery stores and the food chain across the nation are adapting to the new normal, with shelter in place and work from home orders across the county. Doug Baker, industry relations vice president at The Food Industry Association, says in a blog post, "the industry is rewriting the playbook on crisis response in real-time.” To heighten personal safety and engender a deeper comfort level among associates and shoppers, retailers are using various tactics in their stores to implement the protocol of maintaining safe social distance. Every store looks different, so the measures retailers are taking vary depending on the unique needs of their setting. For example, some retailers are putting up stanchions and floor decals to indicate where shoppers should stand to help them measure the appropriate amount of space in queues and depending on the store. Additionally, stores are piloting “pick-up only” at some facilities. Baker adds, “Our industry is at its best when the public needs us the most.”

Grocery industry adapting to temporary norms

The House Agriculture Committee this week launched a COVID-19 resource webpage to provide information to the agriculture industry. 

The webpage includes resources and information for agriculture and nutrition, and will be updated as more information becomes available. 

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota says the page is a collection of updates, announcements and online resources detailing programs available to those affected by the pandemic, as well as adjustments made by USDA and other Federal agencies serving the food, agriculture and rural economic supply chain. 

Peterson also spoke with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week, about volatility in the commodity markets, particularly for livestock and poultry industries, the bleak conditions for dairy farmers, and the status of the food supply chain. 

Peterson thanked Perdue and the Department of Agriculture "for their efforts to continue to monitor America's food supply and provide needed assistance and flexibility in this emergency." The page is available at agriculture.house.gov/covid19.

The House Agriculture Committee this week launched a COVID-19 resource webpage to provide information to the agriculture industry. The webpage includes resources and information for agriculture and nutrition, and will be updated as more information becomes available. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson of Minnesota says the page is a collection of updates, announcements and online resources detailing programs available to those affected by the pandemic, as well as adjustments made by USDA and other Federal agencies serving the food, agriculture and rural economic supply chain. Peterson also spoke with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week, about volatility in the commodity markets, particularly for livestock and poultry industries, the bleak conditions for dairy farmers, and the status of the food supply chain. Peterson thanked Perdue and the Department of Agriculture "for their efforts to continue to monitor America's food supply and provide needed assistance and flexibility in this emergency." The page is available at agriculture.house.gov/covid19.

House Ag launches COVID-19 resources webpage

For the second-straight year, the National Pork Producers Council has canceled the World Pork Expo. 

Canceled last year to avoid the spread of African swine fever, this year's event is one of many interrupted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. NPPC announced the cancellation early this week due to COVID-19 human health concerns. 

NPPC President Howard "A.V." Roth says, while disappointing, canceling the event allows "producers and others across the industry to focus on the essential role we play in the nation's food supply system at this critical time." 

Roth says NPPC will “do our part to support the nation's transition back to normalcy and look forward to making next year's World Pork Expo better than ever.” 

World Pork Expo is the world's largest pork-specific trade show, where more than 20,000 industry professionals gather for three days to showcase innovations, introduce new products and participate in training and educational programs. World Pork Expo 2021 is scheduled for June 9-11 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

For the second-straight year, the National Pork Producers Council has canceled the World Pork Expo. Canceled last year to avoid the spread of African swine fever, this year's event is one of many interrupted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. NPPC announced the cancellation early this week due to COVID-19 human health concerns. NPPC President Howard "A.V." Roth says, while disappointing, canceling the event allows "producers and others across the industry to focus on the essential role we play in the nation's food supply system at this critical time." Roth says NPPC will “do our part to support the nation's transition back to normalcy and look forward to making next year's World Pork Expo better than ever.” World Pork Expo is the world's largest pork-specific trade show, where more than 20,000 industry professionals gather for three days to showcase innovations, introduce new products and participate in training and educational programs. World Pork Expo 2021 is scheduled for June 9-11 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

No World Pork Expo for second straight year

The Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will host its annual USDA Data Users’ Meeting virtually later this month. 

The event is one of many that have opted to go virtual amid the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. Planned for Tuesday, April 21, the event is regularly held to share recent and pending program changes, and to solicit comments and input on various data and information programs important to agriculture. 

Usually held in person, the online Data Users’ Meeting remains free of charge and open to the public and will take place from 1:00-3:30 p.m. (ET). The meeting is organized by NASS in cooperation with the World Agricultural Outlook Board, Farm Service Agency, Economic Research Service, Agricultural Marketing Service, Foreign Agricultural Service, and the U.S. Census Bureau. 

Leaders from each agency will provide an overview of current issues and then take questions and comments. Registration and participation information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nass.usda.gov/">www.nass.usda.gov</a>.

The Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will host its annual USDA Data Users’ Meeting virtually later this month. The event is one of many that have opted to go virtual amid the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. Planned for Tuesday, April 21, the event is regularly held to share recent and pending program changes, and to solicit comments and input on various data and information programs important to agriculture. Usually held in person, the online Data Users’ Meeting remains free of charge and open to the public and will take place from 1:00-3:30 p.m. (ET). The meeting is organized by NASS in cooperation with the World Agricultural Outlook Board, Farm Service Agency, Economic Research Service, Agricultural Marketing Service, Foreign Agricultural Service, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Leaders from each agency will provide an overview of current issues and then take questions and comments. Registration and participation information is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nass.usda.gov/">www.nass.usda.gov</a>.

NASS to host virtual annual USDA data users’ meeting

Producers surveyed across the United States intend to plant an estimated 97.0 million acres of corn in 2020, up eight percent from last year. 

The Agriculture Department's National Agricultural Statistics Survey released its Prospective Planting report Tuesday. The report says planted acreage intentions for corn are up or unchanged in 38 of the 48 estimating states. 

Soybean growers intend to plant 83.5 million acres in 2020, up ten percent from last year, the third-highest planted acreage on record. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to be up or unchanged in 22 of the 29 states estimated. 

NASS also released the quarterly Grain Stocks report as of March 1. The report says corn stocks totaled 7.95 billion bushels, down eight percent from the same time last year. 

On-farm corn stocks were down 13 percent from a year ago, but off-farm stocks were up less than one percent. And, Soybeans stored totaled 2.25 billion bushels, down 17 percent. On-farm soybean stocks were down 20 percent, while off-farm stocks were down 15 percent.

Producers surveyed across the United States intend to plant an estimated 97.0 million acres of corn in 2020, up eight percent from last year. The Agriculture Department's National Agricultural Statistics Survey released its Prospective Planting report Tuesday. The report says planted acreage intentions for corn are up or unchanged in 38 of the 48 estimating states. Soybean growers intend to plant 83.5 million acres in 2020, up ten percent from last year, the third-highest planted acreage on record. Compared with last year, planted acreage is expected to be up or unchanged in 22 of the 29 states estimated. NASS also released the quarterly Grain Stocks report as of March 1. The report says corn stocks totaled 7.95 billion bushels, down eight percent from the same time last year. On-farm corn stocks were down 13 percent from a year ago, but off-farm stocks were up less than one percent. And, Soybeans stored totaled 2.25 billion bushels, down 17 percent. On-farm soybean stocks were down 20 percent, while off-farm stocks were down 15 percent.

USDA releases perspective plantings report

A poll by Farm Journal shows farmers and ranchers are concerned about uncertainty in commodity markets, the financial stability of their businesses, and the health of their families, and their workforce. 

The poll gaged farmer responses regarding top issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Survey results show 90 percent of farmers and ranchers say they expect COVID-19 to impact their business. 

While only 30 percent have a fear of becoming sick themselves, many expressed concerns about family and friends in higher risk categories. One-third of respondents said they've been directly impacted by the disease. 

Farm Journal's Charlene Finck says, “Planting crops, maintaining dairy operations and other agricultural work is critical to our national security and social well-being,” adding, “We will get through these uncertain times together." 

Agriculture is naturally designated as an essential or critical industry for the nation, as the farm workforce helps to feed the nation, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A poll by Farm Journal shows farmers and ranchers are concerned about uncertainty in commodity markets, the financial stability of their businesses, and the health of their families, and their workforce. The poll gaged farmer responses regarding top issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Survey results show 90 percent of farmers and ranchers say they expect COVID-19 to impact their business. While only 30 percent have a fear of becoming sick themselves, many expressed concerns about family and friends in higher risk categories. One-third of respondents said they've been directly impacted by the disease. Farm Journal's Charlene Finck says, “Planting crops, maintaining dairy operations and other agricultural work is critical to our national security and social well-being,” adding, “We will get through these uncertain times together." Agriculture is naturally designated as an essential or critical industry for the nation, as the farm workforce helps to feed the nation, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Farm Journal releases poll on COVID-19 impact

Consumers are ordering more goods and groceries online during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Grocery Dive, a web-based grocery industry publication, reports 31 percent of U.S. households have used online grocery services over the past month. 

Out of those surveyed, 26 percent of consumers report using grocery delivery and pick-up services for the first time, and 39 percent of 60 and older consumers say the same. 

The report is based on a survey of more than 1,600 U.S. adults. The pandemic may permanently alter consumer activity, as buyers are seeking to avoid crowds at grocery stores to follow social distancing guidelines. However, current pick-up and delivery infrastructure is not meeting the demands. 

Amazon’s Prime Pantry temporarily shut down, and many grocery stores offering the services are scheduling appointments days after the order, compared with same day or next day options. Meanwhile, last week, several online providers, including DoorDash, announced they would waive delivery fees for shoppers 60 and older.

Consumers are ordering more goods and groceries online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grocery Dive, a web-based grocery industry publication, reports 31 percent of U.S. households have used online grocery services over the past month. Out of those surveyed, 26 percent of consumers report using grocery delivery and pick-up services for the first time, and 39 percent of 60 and older consumers say the same. The report is based on a survey of more than 1,600 U.S. adults. The pandemic may permanently alter consumer activity, as buyers are seeking to avoid crowds at grocery stores to follow social distancing guidelines. However, current pick-up and delivery infrastructure is not meeting the demands. Amazon’s Prime Pantry temporarily shut down, and many grocery stores offering the services are scheduling appointments days after the order, compared with same day or next day options. Meanwhile, last week, several online providers, including DoorDash, announced they would waive delivery fees for shoppers 60 and older.

Consumers increase online grocery orders during outbreak

GasBuddy reports the U.S. national average for gasoline has fallen to $1.99 per gallon, the first time since March 23, 2016. 

The national average could even dip to $1.49 by mid-April, the lowest since 2004, with potentially hundreds of stations pushing their price to 99 cents per gallon for the first time since the early 2000’s. 

Gasoline prices have continuously dropped nationwide since February 20, 2020 as the coronavirus crushes the demand for oil and lockdowns reduce driving and keep Americans home. More than half of U.S. states are currently seeing average prices less than $2 per gallon. 

In the last week, 99 cent prices have shown up at various times in Kentucky, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Missouri and more could join in the days and weeks ahead. 

An additional drop of 25-65 cents is possible in most states, while West Coast states, including California, could see prices drop 50 cents to a dollar per gallon over the next few weeks.

GasBuddy reports the U.S. national average for gasoline has fallen to $1.99 per gallon, the first time since March 23, 2016. The national average could even dip to $1.49 by mid-April, the lowest since 2004, with potentially hundreds of stations pushing their price to 99 cents per gallon for the first time since the early 2000’s. Gasoline prices have continuously dropped nationwide since February 20, 2020 as the coronavirus crushes the demand for oil and lockdowns reduce driving and keep Americans home. More than half of U.S. states are currently seeing average prices less than $2 per gallon. In the last week, 99 cent prices have shown up at various times in Kentucky, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Missouri and more could join in the days and weeks ahead. An additional drop of 25-65 cents is possible in most states, while West Coast states, including California, could see prices drop 50 cents to a dollar per gallon over the next few weeks.

National average gas price drops below $1.99

One lawmaker wants an ag expert on the White House Coronavirus Task Force. U.S. Representative Josh Harder, a Democrat from California, recently penned a letter to the Trump administration asking that the task force include someone who can represent agriculture. 

Specifically, Harder says appointing a member that can “knowledgeably advocate on behalf of our producers, consumers and distributors” will ensure families have access to the food they need during the pandemic. 

The letter states farmers are already seeing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including volatile markets, and losing the certainty of a healthy workforce, along with potential shortages of personal protective equipment. 

Representative Harder’s office has heard concerns from agriculture about the availability of masks and gloves for workers as well as the availability of migrant labor. 

Harder says he has also heard from consumers concerned about bare shelves at supermarkets. Having an agriculture representative on the task force, Harder says, “will help to ensure all these concerns are addressed.”

One lawmaker wants an ag expert on the White House Coronavirus Task Force. U.S. Representative Josh Harder, a Democrat from California, recently penned a letter to the Trump administration asking that the task force include someone who can represent agriculture. Specifically, Harder says appointing a member that can “knowledgeably advocate on behalf of our producers, consumers and distributors” will ensure families have access to the food they need during the pandemic. The letter states farmers are already seeing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including volatile markets, and losing the certainty of a healthy workforce, along with potential shortages of personal protective equipment. Representative Harder’s office has heard concerns from agriculture about the availability of masks and gloves for workers as well as the availability of migrant labor. Harder says he has also heard from consumers concerned about bare shelves at supermarkets. Having an agriculture representative on the task force, Harder says, “will help to ensure all these concerns are addressed.”

Rep. Harder seeks ag advisor on White House coronavirus task force

U.S. fuel ethanol producer and refiner Valero is shutting down two of its ethanol plants, one in Nebraska and the other in Iowa. 

They’re also declaring “force majeure” (mah-ZHURE) on shipments for dried distillers’ grains or corn purchases, which means they won’t be able to meet contracted demands because of unforeseeable conditions. 

The force majeure is because of a lack of storage availability for corn or ethanol as demand for fuel drops and storage remains limited due to the excess supply. 

The coronavirus outbreak is causing Americans to drive considerably less than usual, so the low demand and excess supply are forcing Valero to close plants in Albion, Nebraska, and Albert City, Iowa. 

An Independent Commodity Intelligence Services website article says the supply of fuel ethanol remains ample while some producers are switching to industrial ethanol production as demand from that sector continues to climb. 

The state of the summer driving season is also uncertain, which is limiting fuel demand. The peak demand for fuel ethanol is during the summer. Fuel ethanol demand is almost cut in half as the people who account for 45 percent of the overall demand are currently on stay-at-home-orders in the U.S., with those order numbers continuing to climb.

U.S. fuel ethanol producer and refiner Valero is shutting down two of its ethanol plants, one in Nebraska and the other in Iowa. They’re also declaring “force majeure” (mah-ZHURE) on shipments for dried distillers’ grains or corn purchases, which means they won’t be able to meet contracted demands because of unforeseeable conditions. The force majeure is because of a lack of storage availability for corn or ethanol as demand for fuel drops and storage remains limited due to the excess supply. The coronavirus outbreak is causing Americans to drive considerably less than usual, so the low demand and excess supply are forcing Valero to close plants in Albion, Nebraska, and Albert City, Iowa. An Independent Commodity Intelligence Services website article says the supply of fuel ethanol remains ample while some producers are switching to industrial ethanol production as demand from that sector continues to climb. The state of the summer driving season is also uncertain, which is limiting fuel demand. The peak demand for fuel ethanol is during the summer. Fuel ethanol demand is almost cut in half as the people who account for 45 percent of the overall demand are currently on stay-at-home-orders in the U.S., with those order numbers continuing to climb.

Valero closing down two ethanol plants

The U.S. State Department will speed up approvals of H-2A farmworkers by waiving interviews for many applicants. 

An Agri-Pulse report says the move is applauded by many of the country’s major ag groups, who were worried that embassy cutbacks due to the coronavirus outbreak would leave farmers without the labor they need to run their operations. 

Late last week, the State Department said consular officers have the option to go ahead and “waive the visa interview for first-time and returning H-2A applicants who have no potential ineligibility.” The State Department’s expansion of the waiver process also quadruples the period in which returning workers may qualify to have their interview waived. 

That timeframe used to be a year, but applicants who’ve had visas expire anytime during the last four years now won’t need to be interviewed if they are applying for the same visa classification and didn’t need an interview the last time they applied. A State Department document says the new approval process will only be valid during the current calendar year. 

The Western Growers’ Association issued a statement saying that the move will ease the flow of guest workers into the country during a time when our farmers are doubling their effort to provide the country with safe, healthy, affordable, and abundant food.

The U.S. State Department will speed up approvals of H-2A farmworkers by waiving interviews for many applicants. An Agri-Pulse report says the move is applauded by many of the country’s major ag groups, who were worried that embassy cutbacks due to the coronavirus outbreak would leave farmers without the labor they need to run their operations. Late last week, the State Department said consular officers have the option to go ahead and “waive the visa interview for first-time and returning H-2A applicants who have no potential ineligibility.” The State Department’s expansion of the waiver process also quadruples the period in which returning workers may qualify to have their interview waived. That timeframe used to be a year, but applicants who’ve had visas expire anytime during the last four years now won’t need to be interviewed if they are applying for the same visa classification and didn’t need an interview the last time they applied. A State Department document says the new approval process will only be valid during the current calendar year. The Western Growers’ Association issued a statement saying that the move will ease the flow of guest workers into the country during a time when our farmers are doubling their effort to provide the country with safe, healthy, affordable, and abundant food.

State department to accelerate H-2A approvals

USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue says his agency accepted over 3.4 million acres into the general Conservation Reserve Program signup that recently wrapped up. It’s the first general signup for enrollments since 2016. County offices will begin to notify producers with accepted acres no later than April 3. 

“The Conservation Reserve Program is one of our nation’s largest conservation endeavors and is critical in helping producers better manage their operations while conserving valuable natural resources,” Perdue says. 

“The program celebrates its 35th anniversary this year and we’re quite pleased to see one of our largest signups in many years.” For the past 3.5 decades, the CRP has addressed multiple concerns while ensuring the most competitive offers are selected by protecting fragile and environmentally-sensitive lands, improving water quality, enhancing wildlife populations, providing pollinator forage habitat, sequestering carbon in soil and enhancing soil productivity. 

Seventy percent of the nation’s land is privately owned, and America’s farmers and ranchers have stepped up to protect the environment and natural resources through this program. 

Farmers and ranchers get an annual rental payment for establishing long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to help control soil erosion, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland.

USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue says his agency accepted over 3.4 million acres into the general Conservation Reserve Program signup that recently wrapped up. It’s the first general signup for enrollments since 2016. County offices will begin to notify producers with accepted acres no later than April 3. “The Conservation Reserve Program is one of our nation’s largest conservation endeavors and is critical in helping producers better manage their operations while conserving valuable natural resources,” Perdue says. “The program celebrates its 35th anniversary this year and we’re quite pleased to see one of our largest signups in many years.” For the past 3.5 decades, the CRP has addressed multiple concerns while ensuring the most competitive offers are selected by protecting fragile and environmentally-sensitive lands, improving water quality, enhancing wildlife populations, providing pollinator forage habitat, sequestering carbon in soil and enhancing soil productivity. Seventy percent of the nation’s land is privately owned, and America’s farmers and ranchers have stepped up to protect the environment and natural resources through this program. Farmers and ranchers get an annual rental payment for establishing long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to help control soil erosion, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland.

USDA accepts over 3.4 million acres in general CRP signup

The House of Representatives approved the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on Friday. The bill, which the Senate had already approved 96-0, now goes to President Donald Trump, who’s already promised to sign it. 

The Hagstrom Report says the measure passed the House by voice vote, with just a few voices in opposition. 

Democrats in the House praised Senate Democrats and House leadership for making changes in the bill, while House Ways and Means Ranking Member Kevin Brady says, “Senate Democrats, aided by (House) Speaker Nancy Pelosi, recklessly delayed this bill for days and used this crisis to try and advance a frivolous political agenda. 

That failed, while the Senate found unanimous, if not perfect, ground.” Mike Rogers of Alabama told the House that the bill was particularly important to rural hospitals that need to buy supplies and build infrastructure to provide medical information and advice online. 

Washington state Republican Dan Newhouse told his colleagues before the vote that the bill would “support hardworking farmers and ranchers who provide food for the nation.” Pelosi herself called for a large vote so that Americans would realize the government is there to help.

The House of Representatives approved the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on Friday. The bill, which the Senate had already approved 96-0, now goes to President Donald Trump, who’s already promised to sign it. The Hagstrom Report says the measure passed the House by voice vote, with just a few voices in opposition. Democrats in the House praised Senate Democrats and House leadership for making changes in the bill, while House Ways and Means Ranking Member Kevin Brady says, “Senate Democrats, aided by (House) Speaker Nancy Pelosi, recklessly delayed this bill for days and used this crisis to try and advance a frivolous political agenda. That failed, while the Senate found unanimous, if not perfect, ground.” Mike Rogers of Alabama told the House that the bill was particularly important to rural hospitals that need to buy supplies and build infrastructure to provide medical information and advice online. Washington state Republican Dan Newhouse told his colleagues before the vote that the bill would “support hardworking farmers and ranchers who provide food for the nation.” Pelosi herself called for a large vote so that Americans would realize the government is there to help.

House approves coronavirus relief bill

Previous reports have suggested administration officials were considering suspending tariffs to stimulate the U.S. economy. 

However, the top trade adviser for the White House, Peter Navarro, says the Trump administration isn’t considering that right now. A Marketplace Dot Org report says tariffs are taxes on imported goods that American companies and consumers always wind up paying. 

The head of the Coalition for a Prosperous America says a lot of the duties were first implemented because many imports were being subsidized or otherwise traded unfairly, injuring American companies and their ability to do business. 

Economists ranging from the Federal Reserve through the private sector have compared how much the tariffs have benefited the economy against how much difficulty they bring as well. 

“Tariffs cause more losers than winners,” says Dan North, senior economist for a group that provides trade credit insurance. “it’s a significant drag on the economy, especially in the current environment.” Mary Lovely, a professor of economics at Syracuse University, says a suspension would be aimed at U.S. manufacturers that import the items needed to assemble new goods.

Previous reports have suggested administration officials were considering suspending tariffs to stimulate the U.S. economy. However, the top trade adviser for the White House, Peter Navarro, says the Trump administration isn’t considering that right now. A Marketplace Dot Org report says tariffs are taxes on imported goods that American companies and consumers always wind up paying. The head of the Coalition for a Prosperous America says a lot of the duties were first implemented because many imports were being subsidized or otherwise traded unfairly, injuring American companies and their ability to do business. Economists ranging from the Federal Reserve through the private sector have compared how much the tariffs have benefited the economy against how much difficulty they bring as well. “Tariffs cause more losers than winners,” says Dan North, senior economist for a group that provides trade credit insurance. “it’s a significant drag on the economy, especially in the current environment.” Mary Lovely, a professor of economics at Syracuse University, says a suspension would be aimed at U.S. manufacturers that import the items needed to assemble new goods.

Administration won’t drop tariffs to boost economy

USDA’s Farm Service Agency county offices are open only by a phone appointment until further notice because of the COVID-19 outbreak. 

FSA staff are available to continue helping agricultural producers with program signups, loan servicing, and other important actions. Also, the FSA is relaxing the loan-making process and adding flexibilities for servicing direct and guaranteed loans to provide credit to producers in need. 

Program delivery staff will continue to come to the FSA office, but they’ll work with producers by phone and other online tools whenever possible. 

“FSA programs and loans are critical to America’s farmers and ranchers, and we want to continue our work with customers while taking precautionary measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus,” says FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. 

“We recognize that farm loans are critical for annual operating and family living expenses, as well as emergency needs and cash flow through times like this. FSA is working to find and use every option and flexibility to provide producers with credit options and other program benefits.”

USDA’s Farm Service Agency county offices are open only by a phone appointment until further notice because of the COVID-19 outbreak. FSA staff are available to continue helping agricultural producers with program signups, loan servicing, and other important actions. Also, the FSA is relaxing the loan-making process and adding flexibilities for servicing direct and guaranteed loans to provide credit to producers in need. Program delivery staff will continue to come to the FSA office, but they’ll work with producers by phone and other online tools whenever possible. “FSA programs and loans are critical to America’s farmers and ranchers, and we want to continue our work with customers while taking precautionary measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus,” says FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “We recognize that farm loans are critical for annual operating and family living expenses, as well as emergency needs and cash flow through times like this. FSA is working to find and use every option and flexibility to provide producers with credit options and other program benefits.”

FSA services available by phone appointment only

It looks like U.S. farmers are upping the number of corn acres going into the ground during spring planting. 

The newest Farm Futures survey shows farmers will plant 96.4 million acres of corn during the 2020 planting season. That’s the second-highest number of intended acres after farmers put a record 97.3 million acres of corn in the ground during 2012. 

The Farm Futures number is more than two million acres higher than the most recent USDA projection in February of 94 million acres. Farm Futures points out that a lot of things have changed between the two forecasts. 

The coronavirus pandemic hit, upending the global economy. The increased economic uncertainty, historically cheap input costs, as well as weaker soybean demand from China all appear to have made corn the optimal choice among somewhat limited options for Midwest farmers. 

Farm Futures estimates that soybean plantings will total 82.7 million acres, almost three million less than the USDA estimate of 85 million, which also came out in February. The survey estimates that farmers will plant 45.8 million acres of wheat, higher than USDA’s estimate of 45.0. Farm Futures also estimates that farmers will plant 11.7 million acres of cotton, less than the USDA estimate of 12.5 million.

It looks like U.S. farmers are upping the number of corn acres going into the ground during spring planting. The newest Farm Futures survey shows farmers will plant 96.4 million acres of corn during the 2020 planting season. That’s the second-highest number of intended acres after farmers put a record 97.3 million acres of corn in the ground during 2012. The Farm Futures number is more than two million acres higher than the most recent USDA projection in February of 94 million acres. Farm Futures points out that a lot of things have changed between the two forecasts. The coronavirus pandemic hit, upending the global economy. The increased economic uncertainty, historically cheap input costs, as well as weaker soybean demand from China all appear to have made corn the optimal choice among somewhat limited options for Midwest farmers. Farm Futures estimates that soybean plantings will total 82.7 million acres, almost three million less than the USDA estimate of 85 million, which also came out in February. The survey estimates that farmers will plant 45.8 million acres of wheat, higher than USDA’s estimate of 45.0. Farm Futures also estimates that farmers will plant 11.7 million acres of cotton, less than the USDA estimate of 12.5 million.

Farm futures survey says farmers planting more corn in 2020

Panic buying and hoarding supplies is pushing wholesale egg prices in the Midwest to their all-time high. 

The Des Moines Register says prices for other staples like milk, beef, and even ice cream have gone higher as well. Joe Kerns is president of an agricultural consulting company in Ames, Iowa, who says the Midwest isn’t short on supplies, it’s abnormally-high demand that’s causing the price jump. 

Because of the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, consumers in Iowa and across the U.S. are piling way more than the usual amount of groceries in their shopping carts. That unusually-high demand level is driving prices higher. 

Kerns says it’s not a surprise because as restaurant dining rooms are closed, more people are cooking in their homes. Some grocers are seeing as much as six times the normal demand for eggs, which is temporarily clearing out shelves. 

Processor are struggling to fill orders that are coming in at a rapid pace. Stores in Iowa and across the country say they’re seeing increased prices from their suppliers as they keep working to make sure their shelves stay filled with staple products.

Panic buying and hoarding supplies is pushing wholesale egg prices in the Midwest to their all-time high. The Des Moines Register says prices for other staples like milk, beef, and even ice cream have gone higher as well. Joe Kerns is president of an agricultural consulting company in Ames, Iowa, who says the Midwest isn’t short on supplies, it’s abnormally-high demand that’s causing the price jump. Because of the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, consumers in Iowa and across the U.S. are piling way more than the usual amount of groceries in their shopping carts. That unusually-high demand level is driving prices higher. Kerns says it’s not a surprise because as restaurant dining rooms are closed, more people are cooking in their homes. Some grocers are seeing as much as six times the normal demand for eggs, which is temporarily clearing out shelves. Processor are struggling to fill orders that are coming in at a rapid pace. Stores in Iowa and across the country say they’re seeing increased prices from their suppliers as they keep working to make sure their shelves stay filled with staple products.

Hoarding is pushing the price of eggs and milk higher

A guide by the National Corn Growers Association offers tips to manage COVID-19 on the farm. Farmers are preparing for spring planting, which means activity levels are increasing on the farm for things like field preparation and on-farm deliveries. 

NCGA says limiting interactions and exposure is a good idea to limit exposure and risk related to COVID-19, as it is critical to practice biosecurity for your family, your employees, the public, and animals. 

NCGA recommends farmers identify and coordinate a drop-off location for supplier deliveries to the farm. If possible, set this up away from high traffic areas and housing. Further instruction includes practicing distancing with delivery drivers, log all deliveries and utilize a visitor's log for everyone entering the farm. 

NCGA recommends farmers prepare on-farm workers and family members, and to sanitize contact surfaces around the farm, including door handles and knobs, floor mats, steering wheels and other commonly contacted surfaces. Additionally, it is recommended that all farms have Continuity of Business plans, to keep operations running smoothly in case of any disruption.

A guide by the National Corn Growers Association offers tips to manage COVID-19 on the farm. Farmers are preparing for spring planting, which means activity levels are increasing on the farm for things like field preparation and on-farm deliveries. NCGA says limiting interactions and exposure is a good idea to limit exposure and risk related to COVID-19, as it is critical to practice biosecurity for your family, your employees, the public, and animals. NCGA recommends farmers identify and coordinate a drop-off location for supplier deliveries to the farm. If possible, set this up away from high traffic areas and housing. Further instruction includes practicing distancing with delivery drivers, log all deliveries and utilize a visitor's log for everyone entering the farm. NCGA recommends farmers prepare on-farm workers and family members, and to sanitize contact surfaces around the farm, including door handles and knobs, floor mats, steering wheels and other commonly contacted surfaces. Additionally, it is recommended that all farms have Continuity of Business plans, to keep operations running smoothly in case of any disruption.

NCGA issues steps to manage COVID-19 on the farm

A new study shows America's ethanol industry employs a significantly larger share of military veterans than any other segment of the energy industry. 

Nearly one in five ethanol industry employees is a veteran at 19 percent, compared to a national average of six percent across all sectors of the workforce, according to the 2020 U.S. Energy and Employment Report published by the National Association of State Energy Offices and Energy Futures Initiative. 

Per 100 workers, the ethanol industry employs more than twice as many veterans as the petroleum, natural gas, nuclear, coal, and wind energy sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Across all energy segments, veterans comprise nine percent of the U.S. energy sector's workforce, slightly above the national average.

RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper, an Army veteran who attained the rank of Captain, says, “The ethanol industry is a perfect fit for thousands of veterans across the country.” With ethanol jobs currently at risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and other factors, Cooper said the report serves as a timely reminder that the ethanol industry is a crucial employer of veterans.

A new study shows America's ethanol industry employs a significantly larger share of military veterans than any other segment of the energy industry. Nearly one in five ethanol industry employees is a veteran at 19 percent, compared to a national average of six percent across all sectors of the workforce, according to the 2020 U.S. Energy and Employment Report published by the National Association of State Energy Offices and Energy Futures Initiative. Per 100 workers, the ethanol industry employs more than twice as many veterans as the petroleum, natural gas, nuclear, coal, and wind energy sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Across all energy segments, veterans comprise nine percent of the U.S. energy sector's workforce, slightly above the national average.RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper, an Army veteran who attained the rank of Captain, says, “The ethanol industry is a perfect fit for thousands of veterans across the country.” With ethanol jobs currently at risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and other factors, Cooper said the report serves as a timely reminder that the ethanol industry is a crucial employer of veterans.

Ethanol industry employs significant amount of Veterans

A letter to the Trump Administration from three lawmakers asks the President to temporarily suspend tariffs or at least greatly expedite the tariff exclusion process. 

Representative Ron, a Democrat from Wisconsin, and others, signed the letter, which states, “Immediate tariff relief will have numerous positive effects, including reducing disruptions to existing supply chains and easing the economic burden on our companies and their workers.” 

The letter says tariff duties continue to threaten the economic well-being of families across the country and the viability of the health care, manufacturing, retail, and food sectors. 

The lawmakers are seeking a temporary reprieve from President Donald Trump, not permanent action. The letter says, “it is important to note that we are not asking for permanent rollbacks at this time. Instead, we are asking for you to provide temporary relief for our constituents during this public health crisis.” 

Joining Kind in the letter was Democratic Representatives Suzan DelBene of Washington and Terri Sewell of Alabama.

A letter to the Trump Administration from three lawmakers asks the President to temporarily suspend tariffs or at least greatly expedite the tariff exclusion process. Representative Ron, a Democrat from Wisconsin, and others, signed the letter, which states, “Immediate tariff relief will have numerous positive effects, including reducing disruptions to existing supply chains and easing the economic burden on our companies and their workers.” The letter says tariff duties continue to threaten the economic well-being of families across the country and the viability of the health care, manufacturing, retail, and food sectors. The lawmakers are seeking a temporary reprieve from President Donald Trump, not permanent action. The letter says, “it is important to note that we are not asking for permanent rollbacks at this time. Instead, we are asking for you to provide temporary relief for our constituents during this public health crisis.” Joining Kind in the letter was Democratic Representatives Suzan DelBene of Washington and Terri Sewell of Alabama.

Kind asks Trump to expedite tariff exclusion process

The $2 trillion stimulus package includes billions of dollars for U.S. agriculture. 

A quick analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation shows agriculture is set to receive $49 billion. Of that, $14 billion is provided to the Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation, and $15.8 billion is provided to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program. 

Meanwhile, $9.5 billion is provided to the office of the Secretary for livestock and specialty crops, and $8.5 billion is provided for Child Nutrition Programs. 

Additionally, the funding includes $450 million for commodity assistance, $100 million for broadband grants, and $25 million for distance learning and telemedicine efforts. 

The agreement opens the door for a potential third round of Market Facilitation Payments through the Commodity Credit Corporation, originally created to help farmers as the Trump administration carries out its trade agenda. Funding an additional round of payments through the program is a request from many groups in agriculture.

The $2 trillion stimulus package includes billions of dollars for U.S. agriculture. A quick analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation shows agriculture is set to receive $49 billion. Of that, $14 billion is provided to the Department of Agriculture’s Commodity Credit Corporation, and $15.8 billion is provided to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program. Meanwhile, $9.5 billion is provided to the office of the Secretary for livestock and specialty crops, and $8.5 billion is provided for Child Nutrition Programs. Additionally, the funding includes $450 million for commodity assistance, $100 million for broadband grants, and $25 million for distance learning and telemedicine efforts. The agreement opens the door for a potential third round of Market Facilitation Payments through the Commodity Credit Corporation, originally created to help farmers as the Trump administration carries out its trade agenda. Funding an additional round of payments through the program is a request from many groups in agriculture.