Millions of acres of America’s agricultural land were developed or converted to uses that threaten farming between 2001 and 2016, according to American Farmland Trust. 

The organization this week released a report on U.S. farmland. The report’s Agricultural Land Protection Scorecard is the first-ever state-by-state analysis of policies that respond to the development threats to farmland, showing that every state can, and must, do more to protect their agricultural resources. 

The report shows the extent, location, and quality of each state’s agricultural land and tracks how much of it has been converted. The research also reveals a new threat of land use of low-density residential development, the process of farmland being converted to large-lot residential development. 

American Farmland Trust says low-density residential development compromises opportunities for farming and ranching, making it difficult for farmers to get into their fields or travel between fields. Additionally, new residents not used to living next farms often complain about equipment on roads or odors related to farming. The full report is available at farmland.org.

Millions of acres of America’s agricultural land were developed or converted to uses that threaten farming between 2001 and 2016, according to American Farmland Trust. The organization this week released a report on U.S. farmland. The report’s Agricultural Land Protection Scorecard is the first-ever state-by-state analysis of policies that respond to the development threats to farmland, showing that every state can, and must, do more to protect their agricultural resources. The report shows the extent, location, and quality of each state’s agricultural land and tracks how much of it has been converted. The research also reveals a new threat of land use of low-density residential development, the process of farmland being converted to large-lot residential development. American Farmland Trust says low-density residential development compromises opportunities for farming and ranching, making it difficult for farmers to get into their fields or travel between fields. Additionally, new residents not used to living next farms often complain about equipment on roads or odors related to farming. The full report is available at farmland.org.

American farmland trust releases farmland report

Growth Energy praised the introduction of legislation that would assist biofuel producers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley along with Minnesota Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar introduced the legislation Tuesday. 

Specifically, the bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reimburse biofuel producers for their feedstock purchases in the first quarter of 2020 through the Commodity Credit Corporation. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the proposal would “deliver immediate relief for biofuel workers, farm partners, and thousands of rural communities.” 

The legislation follows numerous appeals from Growth Energy and other farm and biofuel leaders, lawmakers and local governments. As the coronavirus pandemic spread, gasoline use in the United States plummeted to 50-year lows around the country. 

From March 8 to April 4 of this year, total miles driven dropped by 58 percent. The rapid decrease in consumption has led more than 130 biofuel plants to partially or fully shut down in rural America.

Growth Energy praised the introduction of legislation that would assist biofuel producers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley along with Minnesota Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar introduced the legislation Tuesday. Specifically, the bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reimburse biofuel producers for their feedstock purchases in the first quarter of 2020 through the Commodity Credit Corporation. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the proposal would “deliver immediate relief for biofuel workers, farm partners, and thousands of rural communities.” The legislation follows numerous appeals from Growth Energy and other farm and biofuel leaders, lawmakers and local governments. As the coronavirus pandemic spread, gasoline use in the United States plummeted to 50-year lows around the country. From March 8 to April 4 of this year, total miles driven dropped by 58 percent. The rapid decrease in consumption has led more than 130 biofuel plants to partially or fully shut down in rural America.

Growth Energy lauds introduction of biofuels relief bill in senate

Farm Journal this week announced the launch of a new "COVID-conscious" farm show experience called Farm Journal Field Days, set for August 25-27, 2020, on farms in eastern Iowa and northwest Ohio. 

The interactive Farm Journal Field Days includes a three-day Virtual Pavilion that runs concurrent with full-day on-farm demonstrations and programming. The on-farm sessions will be hosted August 25 at Blue Diamond Company farm in Jesup, Iowa, and August 27 at Newcomer Farm in Bryan, Ohio. 

Up to one hundred Top Producers will be voluntarily selected to participate in person on each farm with beyond-recommended social distancing rules, but in a highly personal, interactive experience. 

The first annual Farm Journal Field Days will encompass equipment, crops, livestock and technology with a focus on bringing buyers and sellers together in different and unique ways. 

The format will include one-on-one and group settings to observe innovations in practice, as well as interactive educational and sales methods. The on-farm programs and Virtual Pavilion will be promoted across Farm Journal's digital and broadcast footprint.

Farm Journal this week announced the launch of a new "COVID-conscious" farm show experience called Farm Journal Field Days, set for August 25-27, 2020, on farms in eastern Iowa and northwest Ohio. The interactive Farm Journal Field Days includes a three-day Virtual Pavilion that runs concurrent with full-day on-farm demonstrations and programming. The on-farm sessions will be hosted August 25 at Blue Diamond Company farm in Jesup, Iowa, and August 27 at Newcomer Farm in Bryan, Ohio. Up to one hundred Top Producers will be voluntarily selected to participate in person on each farm with beyond-recommended social distancing rules, but in a highly personal, interactive experience. The first annual Farm Journal Field Days will encompass equipment, crops, livestock and technology with a focus on bringing buyers and sellers together in different and unique ways. The format will include one-on-one and group settings to observe innovations in practice, as well as interactive educational and sales methods. The on-farm programs and Virtual Pavilion will be promoted across Farm Journal's digital and broadcast footprint.

Farm Journal announces new farm show

President Donald Trump at the White House Tuesday suggested the United States should consider terminating trade deals that bring live cattle into the United States. Most cattle imported into the United States come from Mexico and Canada, thus falling under Trump’s new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. 

However, a recent Trump administration decision to allow fresh beef imports from Brazil is something the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association urged the President to reconsider. 

The association says there continue to be concerns with foot-and-mouth disease and USDA’s decision to reopen the American market to Brazilian beef. Approximately 12 percent of beef consumed in the U.S. is imported product, but that product must meet the U.S. standards before allowed into the market. 

Woodall adds, “We encourage him to re-examine the decision to reopen the market to imports from Brazil, Namibia, and any other nation where there are food safety or animal health concerns that could impact American consumers or cattle producers.”

President Donald Trump at the White House Tuesday suggested the United States should consider terminating trade deals that bring live cattle into the United States. Most cattle imported into the United States come from Mexico and Canada, thus falling under Trump’s new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. However, a recent Trump administration decision to allow fresh beef imports from Brazil is something the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association urged the President to reconsider. The association says there continue to be concerns with foot-and-mouth disease and USDA’s decision to reopen the American market to Brazilian beef. Approximately 12 percent of beef consumed in the U.S. is imported product, but that product must meet the U.S. standards before allowed into the market. Woodall adds, “We encourage him to re-examine the decision to reopen the market to imports from Brazil, Namibia, and any other nation where there are food safety or animal health concerns that could impact American consumers or cattle producers.”

NCBA responds to Trump comments on beef imports

The Trump administration Tuesday announced the rollout of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to farmers and ranchers. 

Beginning May 26, the Department of Agriculture will be accepting applications from farmers who have suffered losses of five percent or more. The funds come from the $9.5 billion in appropriated funding provided in the CARES dedicated to agriculture and $6.5 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation. 

Farmers will receive a combined total from CFAP and the CCC of 95 cents per bushel for soybeans, and 67 cents for corn. The payment rate for cattle is $247 per-head of slaughter cattle, $171 per-head of feeder cattle over 600 lbs, and $45 for hogs under 120lbs. There is a payment limitation of $250,000 per person or entity. 

Producers will receive 80 percent of their maximum total payment upon approval of the application. The remaining portion of the payment will be paid later. Producers can apply through their local FSA office, and applications will be accepted through August 28, 2020. Additional information and application forms can be found at farmers.gov/cfap.

The Trump administration Tuesday announced the rollout of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to farmers and ranchers. Beginning May 26, the Department of Agriculture will be accepting applications from farmers who have suffered losses of five percent or more. The funds come from the $9.5 billion in appropriated funding provided in the CARES dedicated to agriculture and $6.5 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation. Farmers will receive a combined total from CFAP and the CCC of 95 cents per bushel for soybeans, and 67 cents for corn. The payment rate for cattle is $247 per-head of slaughter cattle, $171 per-head of feeder cattle over 600 lbs, and $45 for hogs under 120lbs. There is a payment limitation of $250,000 per person or entity. Producers will receive 80 percent of their maximum total payment upon approval of the application. The remaining portion of the payment will be paid later. Producers can apply through their local FSA office, and applications will be accepted through August 28, 2020. Additional information and application forms can be found at farmers.gov/cfap.

USDA announces details of coronavirus food assistance program

WASHINGTON, D.C.– President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced details of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers and ranchers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. 

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472280-1/president-trump-remarks-food-supply#">Click here to watch</a> the White House Press conference.

In addition to this direct support to farmers and ranchers, USDA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/selling-food-to-usda/farmers-to-families-food-box" target="_blank">Farmers to Families Food Box</a>&nbsp;program is partnering with regional and local distributors, whose workforces have been significantly impacted by the closure of many restaurants, hotels, and other food service entities, to purchase $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy, and meat and deliver boxes to Americans in need.

Producers should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.farmers.gov/cfap">click here</a>&nbsp;to view details and to sign up for the program.

“I thank President Trump and Secretary Perdue for their efforts to help our farmers, ranchers, and growers manage their operations during these unprecedented times,” said Kansas Senator Pat Roberts.&nbsp;“I encourage producers to contact their local FSA office to enroll in the program.”

“I will visit with President Trump later today to continue delivering messages from farm country, and we will continue working to make sure our producers have the tools they need during the COVID-19 emergency and beyond.”

“America’s farming community is facing an unprecedented situation as our nation tackles the coronavirus. President Trump has authorized USDA to ensure our patriotic farmers, ranchers, and producers are supported and we are moving quickly to open applications to get payments out the door and into the pockets of farmers,” said Secretary Perdue. 

“These payments will help keep farmers afloat while market demand returns as our nation reopens and recovers. America’s farmers are resilient and will get through this challenge just like they always do with faith, hard work, and determination.”

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will accept CFAP applications May 26 – August 28, 2020. Producers should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.farmers.gov/cfap">click here</a>&nbsp;to view details and to sign up for the program.

Congress authorized a portion of the funding for CFAP in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was a unanimous vote in the U.S. Senate. President Trump signed the CARES Act into law on March 27. The CARES Act included $9.5 billion in funds to assist agricultural producers, as well as additional resources to partially replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation. Additionally, Congress provided flexibility for the Secretary of Agriculture to purchase commodities for emergency distribution in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589910894677.png" alt="<a href="https://www.c-span.org/person/?ivankatrump">President Trump&nbsp;</a>met with ranchers and farmers in the Roosevelt Room of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?929/White">White House</a>&nbsp;to talk about maintaining the nation’s food supply during the pandemic. Other participants included Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?929/White">White House</a>&nbsp;adviser Ivanka Trump-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.c-span.org/person/?ivankatrump">President Trump&nbsp;</a>met with ranchers and farmers in the Roosevelt Room of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?929/White">White House</a>&nbsp;to talk about maintaining the nation’s food supply during the pandemic. Other participants included Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?929/White">White House</a>&nbsp;adviser Ivanka Trump-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON, D.C.– President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced details of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers and ranchers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. <a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472280-1/president-trump-remarks-food-supply#">Click here to watch</a> the White House Press conference.In addition to this direct support to farmers and ranchers, USDA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/selling-food-to-usda/farmers-to-families-food-box" target="_blank">Farmers to Families Food Box</a>&nbsp;program is partnering with regional and local distributors, whose workforces have been significantly impacted by the closure of many restaurants, hotels, and other food service entities, to purchase $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy, and meat and deliver boxes to Americans in need.Producers should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.farmers.gov/cfap">click here</a>&nbsp;to view details and to sign up for the program.“I thank President Trump and Secretary Perdue for their efforts to help our farmers, ranchers, and growers manage their operations during these unprecedented times,” said Kansas Senator Pat Roberts.&nbsp;“I encourage producers to contact their local FSA office to enroll in the program.”“I will visit with President Trump later today to continue delivering messages from farm country, and we will continue working to make sure our producers have the tools they need during the COVID-19 emergency and beyond.”“America’s farming community is facing an unprecedented situation as our nation tackles the coronavirus. President Trump has authorized USDA to ensure our patriotic farmers, ranchers, and producers are supported and we are moving quickly to open applications to get payments out the door and into the pockets of farmers,” said Secretary Perdue. “These payments will help keep farmers afloat while market demand returns as our nation reopens and recovers. America’s farmers are resilient and will get through this challenge just like they always do with faith, hard work, and determination.”USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will accept CFAP applications May 26 – August 28, 2020. Producers should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.farmers.gov/cfap">click here</a>&nbsp;to view details and to sign up for the program.Congress authorized a portion of the funding for CFAP in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was a unanimous vote in the U.S. Senate. President Trump signed the CARES Act into law on March 27. The CARES Act included $9.5 billion in funds to assist agricultural producers, as well as additional resources to partially replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation. Additionally, Congress provided flexibility for the Secretary of Agriculture to purchase commodities for emergency distribution in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

🎥 USDA takes action to support farmers, ranchers and growers

For the second consecutive week, the national average price of gasoline has increased, rising 6.4 cents to $1.83 per gallon. The average price of diesel, meanwhile, fell 1.6 cents to $2.41 per gallon. 

Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy says the increase is attributed to a near five percent increase in gasoline demand. DeHaan says, "as long as states continue to loosen restrictions, it'll mean more motorists on the roads and filling their tank." 

Crude oil prices continue to march higher as demand for gasoline weighs on the market, with a barrel of West Texas Intermediate crude oil fetching $24.99 Monday morning, up from $19.19 a week ago, an increase of over $5 per barrel. 

Brent crude oil was last at $31.11 per barrel, up from $26.01 a week ago. Oil's rally has come as OPEC and other oil-producing countries limit production and as U.S. gasoline demand has rallied as motorists in reopened states and others alike take to the road.

For the second consecutive week, the national average price of gasoline has increased, rising 6.4 cents to $1.83 per gallon. The average price of diesel, meanwhile, fell 1.6 cents to $2.41 per gallon. Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy says the increase is attributed to a near five percent increase in gasoline demand. DeHaan says, "as long as states continue to loosen restrictions, it'll mean more motorists on the roads and filling their tank." Crude oil prices continue to march higher as demand for gasoline weighs on the market, with a barrel of West Texas Intermediate crude oil fetching $24.99 Monday morning, up from $19.19 a week ago, an increase of over $5 per barrel. Brent crude oil was last at $31.11 per barrel, up from $26.01 a week ago. Oil's rally has come as OPEC and other oil-producing countries limit production and as U.S. gasoline demand has rallied as motorists in reopened states and others alike take to the road.

Some states see double-digit gains in gas prices

On Friday, the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division provided guidance for collaboration among U.S. hog farmers. The guidance will help farmers effectively address unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The favorable decision for NPPC is in response to a "business review" letter submitted to the DOJ by the organization. 

The review seek permission to allow hog farmers greater flexibility in working to maximize the number of hogs entering the food supply, minimize the tragic need to euthanize hogs, and, facilitate the safe and orderly euthanization of those hogs which are not able to enter the food supply. 

NPPC President Howard AV Roth, a farmer from Wisconsin, says, "Our goal is to efficiently process as many hogs as possible into the food supply." 

Roth says appropriate collaboration across the industry and with state and federal government officials will minimize the number of pigs that must be euthanized and ensure that the situation is handled humanely, and that disposal is environmentally sound.

On Friday, the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division provided guidance for collaboration among U.S. hog farmers. The guidance will help farmers effectively address unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The favorable decision for NPPC is in response to a "business review" letter submitted to the DOJ by the organization. The review seek permission to allow hog farmers greater flexibility in working to maximize the number of hogs entering the food supply, minimize the tragic need to euthanize hogs, and, facilitate the safe and orderly euthanization of those hogs which are not able to enter the food supply. NPPC President Howard AV Roth, a farmer from Wisconsin, says, "Our goal is to efficiently process as many hogs as possible into the food supply." Roth says appropriate collaboration across the industry and with state and federal government officials will minimize the number of pigs that must be euthanized and ensure that the situation is handled humanely, and that disposal is environmentally sound.

NPPC gains DOJ approval for industry collaboration to address COVID-19 crisis

Senate Democrats want Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to provide more worker safety protection to meat processing employees. 

A group of 29 Senators, led by Democrat Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, penned a letter to Perdue outlining recommendations for ways the Department of Agriculture should improve worker safety. 

The Senators wrote, “While we recognize the importance of keeping these plants running, it is wrong and shortsighted to use the Defense Production Act to mandate plants to stay open without effectively addressing worker safety issues.” 

The group says that while the Trump administration has applauded the reopening of several plants, USDA officials in congressional briefings could not confirm that the plants were operating in accordance with CDC and OSHA guidance. 

The Senators urged USDA to ensure that meatpacking plants take sufficient actions to protect worker safety before opening, including reconfiguring the plants to allow for social distancing, providing appropriate personal protective equipment, instituting ongoing testing, ensuring that infected employees are not coming to work, and making other necessary changes to keep workers safe.

Senate Democrats want Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to provide more worker safety protection to meat processing employees. A group of 29 Senators, led by Democrat Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, penned a letter to Perdue outlining recommendations for ways the Department of Agriculture should improve worker safety. The Senators wrote, “While we recognize the importance of keeping these plants running, it is wrong and shortsighted to use the Defense Production Act to mandate plants to stay open without effectively addressing worker safety issues.” The group says that while the Trump administration has applauded the reopening of several plants, USDA officials in congressional briefings could not confirm that the plants were operating in accordance with CDC and OSHA guidance. The Senators urged USDA to ensure that meatpacking plants take sufficient actions to protect worker safety before opening, including reconfiguring the plants to allow for social distancing, providing appropriate personal protective equipment, instituting ongoing testing, ensuring that infected employees are not coming to work, and making other necessary changes to keep workers safe.

Senators seek meat worker protections from USDA

China said late last week it would immediately allow imports of barley and fresh blueberries from the United States. That move came just days after announcing plans to impose tariffs on barley imports from Australia, as well as blocking Australian beef imports. 

The South China Morning Post says opening up to more U.S. agricultural imports is a step towards meeting the nation’s Phase One trade deal commitments. “The U.S. barley import decision is mainly due to the trade deal,” says Rosa Wang, an analyst with JCI China, an agricultural data provider. 

“To meet the targets, it is necessary for U.S. farm products to enter China.” Wang says it indicates China is making an effort, but also says the Australian side of things is a “separate matter.” Trade data shows that China is a long way from fulfilling its obligations. 

However, the Asian nation has been busy ramping up its purchases of U.S. pork. Early last week, China also exempted a total of 79 American products from tariffs. The new list of exemptions was made public just one day after China suspended imports from four Australian beef processing plants due to labeling and health concerns.

China said late last week it would immediately allow imports of barley and fresh blueberries from the United States. That move came just days after announcing plans to impose tariffs on barley imports from Australia, as well as blocking Australian beef imports. The South China Morning Post says opening up to more U.S. agricultural imports is a step towards meeting the nation’s Phase One trade deal commitments. “The U.S. barley import decision is mainly due to the trade deal,” says Rosa Wang, an analyst with JCI China, an agricultural data provider. “To meet the targets, it is necessary for U.S. farm products to enter China.” Wang says it indicates China is making an effort, but also says the Australian side of things is a “separate matter.” Trade data shows that China is a long way from fulfilling its obligations. However, the Asian nation has been busy ramping up its purchases of U.S. pork. Early last week, China also exempted a total of 79 American products from tariffs. The new list of exemptions was made public just one day after China suspended imports from four Australian beef processing plants due to labeling and health concerns.

China now open to U.S. blueberries, barley imports

Growth Energy sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board asking a new COVID-19 review panel to look into the impacts of gasoline on air quality. 

They want the panel to examine the impact of toxic gasoline additives on respiratory health, as well as the potential benefits offered by bio-based alternatives like ethanol. 

“As you explore the human costs of air pollution, including the heightened risk from COVID-19 among vulnerable parts of the population, we are asking you to examine the wide body of related research pointing to readily available solutions,” says Chris Bliley, Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Growth Energy. 

“Federal regulators have long acknowledged that biofuels reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 39 percent more, but ethanol also serves as the single most affordable and abundant alternative to toxic fuel additives.” 

The letter points out that the petroleum-based aromatics play a dominant role in the formation of toxic emissions linked to cancer, as well as neurological, cardiovascular, and reproductive damage in humans. “Now more than ever, it’s critical that the EPA explore the full impact of petroleum-based aromatics on air quality,” Bliley adds.

Growth Energy sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board asking a new COVID-19 review panel to look into the impacts of gasoline on air quality. They want the panel to examine the impact of toxic gasoline additives on respiratory health, as well as the potential benefits offered by bio-based alternatives like ethanol. “As you explore the human costs of air pollution, including the heightened risk from COVID-19 among vulnerable parts of the population, we are asking you to examine the wide body of related research pointing to readily available solutions,” says Chris Bliley, Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Growth Energy. “Federal regulators have long acknowledged that biofuels reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 39 percent more, but ethanol also serves as the single most affordable and abundant alternative to toxic fuel additives.” The letter points out that the petroleum-based aromatics play a dominant role in the formation of toxic emissions linked to cancer, as well as neurological, cardiovascular, and reproductive damage in humans. “Now more than ever, it’s critical that the EPA explore the full impact of petroleum-based aromatics on air quality,” Bliley adds.

Growth Energy asks COVID-19 panel to examine benefits of biofuels

Analysts already expect China to be unable to meet its obligations under the Phase One trade deal it signed with the U.S. this year. Now, the relationship between the two largest economies in the world appears to be in trouble. 

President Donald Trump seemed to add fuel to the fire when he told the Fox Business Network that he has no interest in speaking to Chinese President Xi Jinping right now. He even went as far as admitting the possibility of cutting ties with the Asian nation. 

Reuters says the U.S. president is very disappointed with China’s failure to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, noting that the pandemic cast a pall over his Phase One deal with China, which was previously hailed as a major achievement. 

“They should never have let this happen,” Trump says. “So, I make a great trade deal and now I say this doesn’t feel the same to me. The ink was barely dry, and the plague came over. And it doesn’t feel the same to me.” 

Trump’s irritation extended to the Chinese president, who Trump one said he had a good relationship with. “Right now, I don’t want to speak to him,” Trump told Fox. “There are many things we could do. We could even cut off the whole relationship.”

Analysts already expect China to be unable to meet its obligations under the Phase One trade deal it signed with the U.S. this year. Now, the relationship between the two largest economies in the world appears to be in trouble. President Donald Trump seemed to add fuel to the fire when he told the Fox Business Network that he has no interest in speaking to Chinese President Xi Jinping right now. He even went as far as admitting the possibility of cutting ties with the Asian nation. Reuters says the U.S. president is very disappointed with China’s failure to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, noting that the pandemic cast a pall over his Phase One deal with China, which was previously hailed as a major achievement. “They should never have let this happen,” Trump says. “So, I make a great trade deal and now I say this doesn’t feel the same to me. The ink was barely dry, and the plague came over. And it doesn’t feel the same to me.” Trump’s irritation extended to the Chinese president, who Trump one said he had a good relationship with. “Right now, I don’t want to speak to him,” Trump told Fox. “There are many things we could do. We could even cut off the whole relationship.”

The U.S., China relationship deteriorating soon after phase one trade deal

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association came out in opposition to a bill that would require a minimum of 50 percent of a meat packer’s beef volume for slaughter be bought on the cash market. 

The Hagstrom Report says the bill was introduced in the Senate by Iowa’s Chuck Grassley and Jon Tester of Montana. NCBA’s Policy Division Chair Todd Wilkinson says, “Currently, cattle producers use a multitude of methods to market their livestock, including the cash market. 

Increased price discovery will benefit all segments of the cattle industry, which is why NCBA has been working closely with key stakeholders, industry experts, and other partners to develop measurable means to meet that end.” 

He says any solution shouldn’t restrict an individual producer’s freedom to pursue marketing avenues that they determine will best meet their operation’s unique needs. “The bill being proposed by Senator Grassley would arbitrarily force many cattle producers to change the way they do business,” Wilkinson adds. 

“We’ll be working toward a more equitable solution.” While NCBA is opposed to the bill, the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and R-CALF USA have endorsed the legislation. &nbsp;

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association came out in opposition to a bill that would require a minimum of 50 percent of a meat packer’s beef volume for slaughter be bought on the cash market. The Hagstrom Report says the bill was introduced in the Senate by Iowa’s Chuck Grassley and Jon Tester of Montana. NCBA’s Policy Division Chair Todd Wilkinson says, “Currently, cattle producers use a multitude of methods to market their livestock, including the cash market. Increased price discovery will benefit all segments of the cattle industry, which is why NCBA has been working closely with key stakeholders, industry experts, and other partners to develop measurable means to meet that end.” He says any solution shouldn’t restrict an individual producer’s freedom to pursue marketing avenues that they determine will best meet their operation’s unique needs. “The bill being proposed by Senator Grassley would arbitrarily force many cattle producers to change the way they do business,” Wilkinson adds. “We’ll be working toward a more equitable solution.” While NCBA is opposed to the bill, the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and R-CALF USA have endorsed the legislation. &nbsp;

NCBA opposed livestock marketing bill

The Renewable Fuels Association took a look at numbers from the Energy Information Administration and found ethanol production rose during the week ending May 8. Production grew 3.2 percent, or about 19,000 barrels per day, to 25.91 million gallons daily. 

That’s the highest production level the industry has reached in the last five weeks. Still, production does remain well below normal, down just over 41 percent from the same week last year. 

Ethanol stocks tightened by 5.6 percent to 24.2 million barrels, While the inventory level is high, that’s the lowest level of ethanol stocks since March 20. Every major ethanol-producing region saw its ethanol inventories decrease, except for the Rocky Mountains, where stocks went slightly higher. 

However, the number of total reserves is up just over eight percent higher than the same time in 2019. The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market is an implied measure of ethanol demand, jumping 11 percent higher to just under 7.4 million gallons. 

While that is positive news, the demand number is still 19 percent lower than last year. Refiner/blender net inputs were up 11 percent higher, but still 30 percent below last year’s levels.

The Renewable Fuels Association took a look at numbers from the Energy Information Administration and found ethanol production rose during the week ending May 8. Production grew 3.2 percent, or about 19,000 barrels per day, to 25.91 million gallons daily. That’s the highest production level the industry has reached in the last five weeks. Still, production does remain well below normal, down just over 41 percent from the same week last year. Ethanol stocks tightened by 5.6 percent to 24.2 million barrels, While the inventory level is high, that’s the lowest level of ethanol stocks since March 20. Every major ethanol-producing region saw its ethanol inventories decrease, except for the Rocky Mountains, where stocks went slightly higher. However, the number of total reserves is up just over eight percent higher than the same time in 2019. The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market is an implied measure of ethanol demand, jumping 11 percent higher to just under 7.4 million gallons. While that is positive news, the demand number is still 19 percent lower than last year. Refiner/blender net inputs were up 11 percent higher, but still 30 percent below last year’s levels.

Ethanol production shows slight rebound, tighter stocks

U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to admit there were likely challenges ahead for his trade deal with China. 

He says the magnitude of the coronavirus pandemic will far outweigh any positive effect the agreement may provide to the U.S. Politico says many analysts don’t expect China to meet the purchase target of $77 billion more in U.S. goods and services this year, compared to the 2017 baseline levels. 

“As I’ve said for a long time, dealing with China is a very expensive thing to do,” the president wrote on Twitter. “We had just made a great trade deal, the ink was barely dry, and the world was hit by a plague from China. 100 trade deals wouldn’t make up the difference – and all those innocent lives lost.” 

Still, there’s no early indicator that the president intends to pull out of the U.S.-China deal that was signed on January 15 or punish the Asian nation for falling short on implementation, such as imposing more tariffs on Chinese imports into the U.S.

U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to admit there were likely challenges ahead for his trade deal with China. He says the magnitude of the coronavirus pandemic will far outweigh any positive effect the agreement may provide to the U.S. Politico says many analysts don’t expect China to meet the purchase target of $77 billion more in U.S. goods and services this year, compared to the 2017 baseline levels. “As I’ve said for a long time, dealing with China is a very expensive thing to do,” the president wrote on Twitter. “We had just made a great trade deal, the ink was barely dry, and the world was hit by a plague from China. 100 trade deals wouldn’t make up the difference – and all those innocent lives lost.” Still, there’s no early indicator that the president intends to pull out of the U.S.-China deal that was signed on January 15 or punish the Asian nation for falling short on implementation, such as imposing more tariffs on Chinese imports into the U.S.

Trump acknowledges challenges with China trade deal

The Sustainable Food Policy Alliance wants the White House to prioritize COVID-19 testing for food and agriculture workers. The group sent the request in a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week. 

The organization urges that food and agriculture workers, as part of an essential industry, be heightened in priority for expedited testing, personal protective equipment, and any other forthcoming treatment related to COVID-19. 

Members of the Alliance include Danone North America, Mars, Incorporated, Nestlé USA, and Unilever. The letter states that maintaining a strong and stable food supply chain depends on keeping food and agriculture workers, from farmers and ranchers to truckers to grocery store employees to food company employees, safe and healthy. 

The companies also highlighted the need for the federal government to work with states and local officials to ensure increased testing capacity for COVID-19 for agriculture and food supply chain workers.

The Sustainable Food Policy Alliance wants the White House to prioritize COVID-19 testing for food and agriculture workers. The group sent the request in a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week. The organization urges that food and agriculture workers, as part of an essential industry, be heightened in priority for expedited testing, personal protective equipment, and any other forthcoming treatment related to COVID-19. Members of the Alliance include Danone North America, Mars, Incorporated, Nestlé USA, and Unilever. The letter states that maintaining a strong and stable food supply chain depends on keeping food and agriculture workers, from farmers and ranchers to truckers to grocery store employees to food company employees, safe and healthy. The companies also highlighted the need for the federal government to work with states and local officials to ensure increased testing capacity for COVID-19 for agriculture and food supply chain workers.

Group seeks priority COVID-19 testing for food and ag workers

A group of Senators this week introduced a bipartisan bill to increase transparency in cattle pricing. Led by Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, the legislation seeks to foster efficient markets while increasing competition and transparency among meatpackers who purchase livestock directly from independent producers. 

The bill will require that a minimum of 50 percent of a meat packer's weekly volume of beef slaughter be purchased on the open or spot market. Grassley first introduced the bill in 2002. 

After discovering a discrepancy between high grocery store shelf prices and simultaneous decreased cattle prices, Grassley re-introduced the legislation. The Senator says the bill will make systemic changes to the cattle industry to ensure longevity of independent producers, which will protect the U.S. beef supply. 

Joining Grassley on the bill are Senate Republican Joni Ernst of Iowa, Mike Rounds of South Dakota, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi and Steve Daines of Montana, Along with Democrats Jon Tester of Montana, and Tina Smith of Minnesota.

A group of Senators this week introduced a bipartisan bill to increase transparency in cattle pricing. Led by Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, the legislation seeks to foster efficient markets while increasing competition and transparency among meatpackers who purchase livestock directly from independent producers. The bill will require that a minimum of 50 percent of a meat packer's weekly volume of beef slaughter be purchased on the open or spot market. Grassley first introduced the bill in 2002. After discovering a discrepancy between high grocery store shelf prices and simultaneous decreased cattle prices, Grassley re-introduced the legislation. The Senator says the bill will make systemic changes to the cattle industry to ensure longevity of independent producers, which will protect the U.S. beef supply. Joining Grassley on the bill are Senate Republican Joni Ernst of Iowa, Mike Rounds of South Dakota, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi and Steve Daines of Montana, Along with Democrats Jon Tester of Montana, and Tina Smith of Minnesota.

Grassley, colleagues introduce bipartisan bill to increase transparency in cattle pricing

This week, House lawmakers introduced the Assistance and Gratitude for Coronavirus Heroes in Agribusiness who are Invaluable to the Nation or the AG CHAIN Act. 

The bill would provide a federal tax holiday and a payroll tax exemption for all essential employees in the food and agriculture industry defined by recent Department of Homeland Security guidance. 

The legislation is an extension of the previously introduced GROCER Act that would establish a federal tax holiday for grocery and convenience store employees. 

The provisions would take place from February 15, 2020, through June 15, 2020, for individuals making less than $75,000 annually. The bill would also provide discretion to the Treasury to extend this benefit for an additional three months. 

Pennsylvania Representatives, Republican Glenn GT Thompson and Democrat Dwight Evans, introduced the bill Tuesday.&nbsp; The National Grocers Association applauded the legislation in a statement, adding the bill “honors supermarket superheroes and will help boost the income of workers that show up for work every day.”

This week, House lawmakers introduced the Assistance and Gratitude for Coronavirus Heroes in Agribusiness who are Invaluable to the Nation or the AG CHAIN Act. The bill would provide a federal tax holiday and a payroll tax exemption for all essential employees in the food and agriculture industry defined by recent Department of Homeland Security guidance. The legislation is an extension of the previously introduced GROCER Act that would establish a federal tax holiday for grocery and convenience store employees. The provisions would take place from February 15, 2020, through June 15, 2020, for individuals making less than $75,000 annually. The bill would also provide discretion to the Treasury to extend this benefit for an additional three months. Pennsylvania Representatives, Republican Glenn GT Thompson and Democrat Dwight Evans, introduced the bill Tuesday.&nbsp; The National Grocers Association applauded the legislation in a statement, adding the bill “honors supermarket superheroes and will help boost the income of workers that show up for work every day.”

House bill would offer tax relief to food supply chain workers

Two-dozen senators recently sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency calling on the Trump Administration to reject calls to alter or get rid of the Renewable Fuels Standard. 

The letter says it is nothing but an oil industry-backed effort to get rid of biofuels. The senators wrote that waiving the RFS would exacerbate the effects experienced by the biofuel sector as a result of COVID-19, causing far-reaching detrimental impacts on employment, farmers, food security, fuel prices, and the environment. 

“We are grateful for our champions who stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural communities confronting a wave of biofuel plant closures, farm bankruptcies, and demand destruction amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

“The oil industry’s attempt to steal markets from farmers and biofuel producers threatens to dash hopes of an economic recovery in the farm belt.” Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs at the National Biodiesel Board, says, “America’s biodiesel producers appreciate the strong leadership of the senators who oppose the efforts to undermine the RFS. Maintaining a strong RFS will be critical to the rural economy’s recovery.”

Two-dozen senators recently sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency calling on the Trump Administration to reject calls to alter or get rid of the Renewable Fuels Standard. The letter says it is nothing but an oil industry-backed effort to get rid of biofuels. The senators wrote that waiving the RFS would exacerbate the effects experienced by the biofuel sector as a result of COVID-19, causing far-reaching detrimental impacts on employment, farmers, food security, fuel prices, and the environment. “We are grateful for our champions who stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural communities confronting a wave of biofuel plant closures, farm bankruptcies, and demand destruction amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “The oil industry’s attempt to steal markets from farmers and biofuel producers threatens to dash hopes of an economic recovery in the farm belt.” Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs at the National Biodiesel Board, says, “America’s biodiesel producers appreciate the strong leadership of the senators who oppose the efforts to undermine the RFS. Maintaining a strong RFS will be critical to the rural economy’s recovery.”

Biofuel groups grateful for support in Washington, D.C.

The May World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report predicts higher corn and soybean production compared to last year. The corn crop is projected to be a record 16 billion bushels, up from last year on the increased area and a return to trend yield. 

The yield projection is 178.5 bushels, with total corn supplies predicted at 18.1 billion bushels. The season-average farm price is projected at $3.20 a bushel, a 40-cent drop from last year and the lowest since 2006-07. 

The soybean crop is projected to be 4.125 billion bushels, up 568 million from last year. Yield is expected to be 49.8 bushels per acre. Soybean supplies are predicted to rise five percent from last year to 4.72 billion bushels. 

The season-average soybean price is projected at $8.20 a bushel, down 30 cents from the previous marketing year. USDA says total wheat production will be three percent lower than last year, coming in at 1.866 billion bushels, with the all-wheat yield at 49.5 bushels per acre, which is down 2.2 bushels from last year. 

The projected season-average farm price for wheat is $4.60 a bushel, unchanged from last year.

The May World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates report predicts higher corn and soybean production compared to last year. The corn crop is projected to be a record 16 billion bushels, up from last year on the increased area and a return to trend yield. The yield projection is 178.5 bushels, with total corn supplies predicted at 18.1 billion bushels. The season-average farm price is projected at $3.20 a bushel, a 40-cent drop from last year and the lowest since 2006-07. The soybean crop is projected to be 4.125 billion bushels, up 568 million from last year. Yield is expected to be 49.8 bushels per acre. Soybean supplies are predicted to rise five percent from last year to 4.72 billion bushels. The season-average soybean price is projected at $8.20 a bushel, down 30 cents from the previous marketing year. USDA says total wheat production will be three percent lower than last year, coming in at 1.866 billion bushels, with the all-wheat yield at 49.5 bushels per acre, which is down 2.2 bushels from last year. The projected season-average farm price for wheat is $4.60 a bushel, unchanged from last year.

WASDE report says corn, soybean production will rise in 2020

Biofuel and farm groups sent a letter this week to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell asking for ethanol and biodiesel help. 

The Hagstrom Report says they’re asking that financial relief for biofuels be included in the next coronavirus relief package. The letter was signed by many prominent groups, including the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the National Biodiesel Board, and many others. 

“The situation we face is dire,” the groups say in the letter. “More than 130 biofuel plants have already partially or fully shut down as motor fuel demand plunged to 50-year lows. America’s biofuel plants annually purchase more than one-third of U.S. corn and U.S. soybean oil. 

The loss of those markets has depressed farm income and will continue to push corn and soybean prices down dramatically.” The groups point out that the economic damage has “rippled across the entire agricultural supply chain.” 

The letter also says that USDA excluded the biofuel sector from initial aid under the CARES Act, despite ongoing letters of support to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue from broad, bipartisan coalitions in the House and Senate. “It’s vital that the next COVID-19 relief package includes immediate, temporary, and direct assistance for the biofuel industry,” they add.

Biofuel and farm groups sent a letter this week to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell asking for ethanol and biodiesel help. The Hagstrom Report says they’re asking that financial relief for biofuels be included in the next coronavirus relief package. The letter was signed by many prominent groups, including the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the National Biodiesel Board, and many others. “The situation we face is dire,” the groups say in the letter. “More than 130 biofuel plants have already partially or fully shut down as motor fuel demand plunged to 50-year lows. America’s biofuel plants annually purchase more than one-third of U.S. corn and U.S. soybean oil. The loss of those markets has depressed farm income and will continue to push corn and soybean prices down dramatically.” The groups point out that the economic damage has “rippled across the entire agricultural supply chain.” The letter also says that USDA excluded the biofuel sector from initial aid under the CARES Act, despite ongoing letters of support to Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue from broad, bipartisan coalitions in the House and Senate. “It’s vital that the next COVID-19 relief package includes immediate, temporary, and direct assistance for the biofuel industry,” they add.

Biofuel groups ask Pelosi, McConnell for ethanol relief

Global Times, a Chinese state-owned media company, cites sources “close to the Chinese government” who say that China may want to redo the Phase One Trade Deal with the U.S. Politico says government advisers reportedly have said China should void the deal and renegotiate the four-month-old agreement with the U.S. so it’s more favorable for Beijing. 

“In fact, it’s in China’s interests to terminate the current phase one deal,” says an unnamed trade adviser quoted in the Times. “The U.S. now cannot afford to restart the trade war with China if everything goes back to square one.” 

However, U.S. President Donald Trump was asked about the report on Monday, saying that he wasn’t interested in renegotiating the trade deal, “not even a little.” The president said he’d heard those same reports that China would like to reopen trade talks with the U.S. and make it a better deal for them. “I’m not interested in that,” Trump says. 

“Let’s see if they live up to the deal they’ve signed.” Trade tensions have been climbing between the two nations as the Trump Administration accused Beijing of spreading misinformation about COVID-19 and failing to contain the virus.

Global Times, a Chinese state-owned media company, cites sources “close to the Chinese government” who say that China may want to redo the Phase One Trade Deal with the U.S. Politico says government advisers reportedly have said China should void the deal and renegotiate the four-month-old agreement with the U.S. so it’s more favorable for Beijing. “In fact, it’s in China’s interests to terminate the current phase one deal,” says an unnamed trade adviser quoted in the Times. “The U.S. now cannot afford to restart the trade war with China if everything goes back to square one.” However, U.S. President Donald Trump was asked about the report on Monday, saying that he wasn’t interested in renegotiating the trade deal, “not even a little.” The president said he’d heard those same reports that China would like to reopen trade talks with the U.S. and make it a better deal for them. “I’m not interested in that,” Trump says. “Let’s see if they live up to the deal they’ve signed.” Trade tensions have been climbing between the two nations as the Trump Administration accused Beijing of spreading misinformation about COVID-19 and failing to contain the virus.

Chinese questions on phase one trade deal

The Department of Agriculture last week approved $1.2 billion in contracts for the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. The program is designed to connect excess meat, dairy and produce on farms with families facing food insecurity. 

The funding far exceeds the $100 million per month the department initially planned for the program, due to high interest and need. The program will purchase $461 million in fresh fruits and vegetables, $317 million in dairy, $258 million in meat and $175 million in a combination box of fresh produce, dairy or meat products. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation and Feeding America, the country’s largest hunger relief organization, sent a letter to the USDA requesting a nimble approach to quickly and effectively get food from America’s farms to the nation’s food banks and others addressing food insecurity. 

USDA is authorized to spend up to $3 billion through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. These initial contracts will distribute food from May 15 through June 30, 2020.

The Department of Agriculture last week approved $1.2 billion in contracts for the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. The program is designed to connect excess meat, dairy and produce on farms with families facing food insecurity. The funding far exceeds the $100 million per month the department initially planned for the program, due to high interest and need. The program will purchase $461 million in fresh fruits and vegetables, $317 million in dairy, $258 million in meat and $175 million in a combination box of fresh produce, dairy or meat products. The American Farm Bureau Federation and Feeding America, the country’s largest hunger relief organization, sent a letter to the USDA requesting a nimble approach to quickly and effectively get food from America’s farms to the nation’s food banks and others addressing food insecurity. USDA is authorized to spend up to $3 billion through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. These initial contracts will distribute food from May 15 through June 30, 2020.

USDA approves $1.2 billion in food purchases to help America’s needy

Mayors from across the U.S. farm belt Monday condemned oil industry efforts to seize markets from farmers and biofuel producers under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler, 70 mayors called on the agency to “reject unjustifiable RFS waiver requests and protect rural communities.”&nbsp; 

The letter says the closures of ethanol plants, “is having devastating ripple effects throughout our economy.” The mayors say waivers to the oil industry would further damage rural communities. 

The letter was offered in support for America's biofuel producers, who have seen demand evaporate during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 70 biofuel plants have completely shuttered their doors, and another 70 have significantly cut production amid demand losses stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds that when biofuel production shuts down, "everyone hurts – from farmers and truckers to meatpackers and ranchers that need animal feed and carbon dioxide for refrigeration."

Mayors from across the U.S. farm belt Monday condemned oil industry efforts to seize markets from farmers and biofuel producers under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler, 70 mayors called on the agency to “reject unjustifiable RFS waiver requests and protect rural communities.”&nbsp; The letter says the closures of ethanol plants, “is having devastating ripple effects throughout our economy.” The mayors say waivers to the oil industry would further damage rural communities. The letter was offered in support for America's biofuel producers, who have seen demand evaporate during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 70 biofuel plants have completely shuttered their doors, and another 70 have significantly cut production amid demand losses stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds that when biofuel production shuts down, "everyone hurts – from farmers and truckers to meatpackers and ranchers that need animal feed and carbon dioxide for refrigeration."

Rural mayors urge EPA to protect Biofuel and farm jobs

A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants the Trump administration to provide guidance on how the Federal Emergency Management Agency can help farmers depopulate and dispose of livestock. 

Led by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson, a Democrat from Minnesota, the group sent a letter to the White House Friday. 

Specifically, the lawmakers request that the Administration allow for expenses related to livestock depopulation and disposal to be reimbursed under Category B of FEMA's Public Assistance program. 

A similar effort in the Senate led by Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley says farmers are facing an animal welfare crisis due to overcrowding and the challenge of providing enough feed and water to each animal. 

The Senate letter states pork producers send to market over two million pigs each week. If twenty percent of processing is idle, that means somewhere around 400,000 animals per week must be disposed of in some manner other than processing.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants the Trump administration to provide guidance on how the Federal Emergency Management Agency can help farmers depopulate and dispose of livestock. Led by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson, a Democrat from Minnesota, the group sent a letter to the White House Friday. Specifically, the lawmakers request that the Administration allow for expenses related to livestock depopulation and disposal to be reimbursed under Category B of FEMA's Public Assistance program. A similar effort in the Senate led by Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley says farmers are facing an animal welfare crisis due to overcrowding and the challenge of providing enough feed and water to each animal. The Senate letter states pork producers send to market over two million pigs each week. If twenty percent of processing is idle, that means somewhere around 400,000 animals per week must be disposed of in some manner other than processing.