President Donald Trump’s executive order to open meatpacking plants helps ensure the food supply chain but poses risks to workers. A statement by the National Farmers Union says the organization shares the president's concerns around maintaining food system infrastructure. 

However, the organization is equally concerned with the health and wellbeing of meat plant employees.

 NFU President Rob Larew says, “These workers work in close quarters and often lack access to appropriate protective equipment or paid sick leave, making them among the most vulnerable to coronavirus.” However, ordering the facilities to stay open ensures that producers of meat have a market for their product. 

National Pork Producers Council President Howard AV Roth says, "We must safely stabilize the current plant capacity challenge." Pork and poultry producers face the tough decision to depopulate because there is no room for animals in the current supply chain. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall, in a statement, says he is "hopeful" the executive order will protect workers while ensuring the supply chain for farmers and ranchers.

President Donald Trump’s executive order to open meatpacking plants helps ensure the food supply chain but poses risks to workers. A statement by the National Farmers Union says the organization shares the president's concerns around maintaining food system infrastructure. However, the organization is equally concerned with the health and wellbeing of meat plant employees. NFU President Rob Larew says, “These workers work in close quarters and often lack access to appropriate protective equipment or paid sick leave, making them among the most vulnerable to coronavirus.” However, ordering the facilities to stay open ensures that producers of meat have a market for their product. National Pork Producers Council President Howard AV Roth says, "We must safely stabilize the current plant capacity challenge." Pork and poultry producers face the tough decision to depopulate because there is no room for animals in the current supply chain. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall, in a statement, says he is "hopeful" the executive order will protect workers while ensuring the supply chain for farmers and ranchers.

Agriculture responds to meatpacking executive order

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives want COVID-19 related relief for farmers as effective and as immediately as possible. 

A letter this week to the Trump administration led by Republican Representative Rick Crawford or Arkansas, Austin Scott of Georgia, Rodney Davis of Illinois and Tom Emmer of Minnesota outlined the request. 

Specifically, the letter highlights concern that there will be a severe gap between producers' losses and Department of Agriculture aid. The letter implores USDA to include all producers and to not limit payments simply based on income, risk management practices, or past USDA payments. 

Further, the letter notes Congress's $14 billion replenishment of the Credit Commodity Corporation and requests USDA to include the funds in the relief package. 

Representative Davis says, "Protecting our nation’s food supply is critical during this pandemic to ensure food is available now and in the future." Representative Crawford adds, "Our nation's agricultural producers are fighting new challenges every day due to the current pandemic, and obtaining assistance shouldn't be added to their plate."

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives want COVID-19 related relief for farmers as effective and as immediately as possible. A letter this week to the Trump administration led by Republican Representative Rick Crawford or Arkansas, Austin Scott of Georgia, Rodney Davis of Illinois and Tom Emmer of Minnesota outlined the request. Specifically, the letter highlights concern that there will be a severe gap between producers' losses and Department of Agriculture aid. The letter implores USDA to include all producers and to not limit payments simply based on income, risk management practices, or past USDA payments. Further, the letter notes Congress's $14 billion replenishment of the Credit Commodity Corporation and requests USDA to include the funds in the relief package. Representative Davis says, "Protecting our nation’s food supply is critical during this pandemic to ensure food is available now and in the future." Representative Crawford adds, "Our nation's agricultural producers are fighting new challenges every day due to the current pandemic, and obtaining assistance shouldn't be added to their plate."

House members request swift and fair implementation of relief for farmers

President Donald Trump Tuesday announced&nbsp;an executive order to keep meatpacking plants open during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The President will use the Defense Production Act to order companies to stay open as critical infrastructure, as meatpacking plants over the past couple of weeks closed with spikes in coronavirus cases among employees. 

The plan allows the federal government to supply additional personal protective equipment to meat processing facilities, according to Bloomberg News. The supply chain slowdown presents dire factors for farmers, with poultry and pork producers left with no alternative other than euthanizing animals. 

The order will affect processing plants for beef, chicken, eggs and pork. Republican U.S. Senators from Iowa, Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, this week, urged the administration to invoke the Defense Production Act. 

The Senators asked for assistance for processing plants, assistance for euthanizing animals, indemnity payments for depopulation costs and mental health assistance for all affected.

President Donald Trump Tuesday announced&nbsp;an executive order to keep meatpacking plants open during the COVID-19 pandemic. The President will use the Defense Production Act to order companies to stay open as critical infrastructure, as meatpacking plants over the past couple of weeks closed with spikes in coronavirus cases among employees. The plan allows the federal government to supply additional personal protective equipment to meat processing facilities, according to Bloomberg News. The supply chain slowdown presents dire factors for farmers, with poultry and pork producers left with no alternative other than euthanizing animals. The order will affect processing plants for beef, chicken, eggs and pork. Republican U.S. Senators from Iowa, Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, this week, urged the administration to invoke the Defense Production Act. The Senators asked for assistance for processing plants, assistance for euthanizing animals, indemnity payments for depopulation costs and mental health assistance for all affected.

Trump using defense production act to keep meatpackers open

Growth Energy Tuesday announced the association's support of the Clean Fuels Deployment Act. 

The legislation authorizes $500 million over five years for the Department of Transportation to provide grants that incentivize the deployment of fueling infrastructure for ethanol and biodiesel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The bill specifically focuses on ethanol blends greater than ten percent, and biodiesel blends greater than 20 percent. 

The bill was introduced by U.S. House Democrats Abby Finkenaur of Iowa, Angie Craig of Illinois, and Republicans Roger Marshall of Kansas and Don Bacon of Nebraska. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the legislation “offers a roadmap for the next wave of growth that will revitalize rural communities.” 

The program could also be used to enhance pipelines and terminals to blend and carry ethanol and biodiesel. Funding from the clean fuels grant program could be used to incentivize the deployment of biofuels infrastructure and convert existing infrastructure to deliver the higher blends.

Growth Energy Tuesday announced the association's support of the Clean Fuels Deployment Act. The legislation authorizes $500 million over five years for the Department of Transportation to provide grants that incentivize the deployment of fueling infrastructure for ethanol and biodiesel.&nbsp;&nbsp;The bill specifically focuses on ethanol blends greater than ten percent, and biodiesel blends greater than 20 percent. The bill was introduced by U.S. House Democrats Abby Finkenaur of Iowa, Angie Craig of Illinois, and Republicans Roger Marshall of Kansas and Don Bacon of Nebraska. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the legislation “offers a roadmap for the next wave of growth that will revitalize rural communities.” The program could also be used to enhance pipelines and terminals to blend and carry ethanol and biodiesel. Funding from the clean fuels grant program could be used to incentivize the deployment of biofuels infrastructure and convert existing infrastructure to deliver the higher blends.

Growth energy praises house bill to boost Biofuel infrastructure

New guidance from the Centers for Disease Control will help keep poultry processing workers safe and ensure the supply chain, according to the National Chicken Council. 

Responding to the new guidance this week, NCC President Mike Brown says, “We appreciate the administration’s new guidance in an effort to further keep our workers safe and keep food on the shelves.” 

CDC recommends facilities take measures to reduce COVID-19 risks.&nbsp; Specifically, the new guidance reiterates many already identified mitigation measures, including social distancing, engineering controls to minimize potential contact, protective gear and face coverings, shift staggering, health screenings, training and awareness, and financial incentives not to report to work sick. 

Brown says the biggest problem processors face is inconsistencies among state and local health departments and government officials who, in many circumstances, are developing their own criteria for maintaining operations. 

NCC says there must be a uniform approach across all states. NCC is urging states to adopt guidelines by the CDC and other federal agencies immediately.

New guidance from the Centers for Disease Control will help keep poultry processing workers safe and ensure the supply chain, according to the National Chicken Council. Responding to the new guidance this week, NCC President Mike Brown says, “We appreciate the administration’s new guidance in an effort to further keep our workers safe and keep food on the shelves.” CDC recommends facilities take measures to reduce COVID-19 risks.&nbsp; Specifically, the new guidance reiterates many already identified mitigation measures, including social distancing, engineering controls to minimize potential contact, protective gear and face coverings, shift staggering, health screenings, training and awareness, and financial incentives not to report to work sick. Brown says the biggest problem processors face is inconsistencies among state and local health departments and government officials who, in many circumstances, are developing their own criteria for maintaining operations. NCC says there must be a uniform approach across all states. NCC is urging states to adopt guidelines by the CDC and other federal agencies immediately.

New guidelines to keep poultry processing employees safe and protein available

A large group of U.S. Senators wants relief for local and rural broadcasters and newspapers. More than 70 Senators signed a letter to the Trump administration regarding local media, following a similar letter last week. 

The lawmakers say that in many rural areas, broadcast stations are the predominant or only form of local information. The letter says it is critical local and rural media can continue to operate to help Americans stay up to date with the latest news and information. 

The Senators requested the White House Office of Management and Budget to work with federal agencies to increase advertising with local media outlets. The request will help local media outlets, "ensure they are able to continue to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

Many federal agencies maintain advertising accounts to provide notices and information to the public. The recent passage of the CARES Act, according to the lawmakers, provides opportunity for the federal government to relay essential information to the public through local advertisements.

A large group of U.S. Senators wants relief for local and rural broadcasters and newspapers. More than 70 Senators signed a letter to the Trump administration regarding local media, following a similar letter last week. The lawmakers say that in many rural areas, broadcast stations are the predominant or only form of local information. The letter says it is critical local and rural media can continue to operate to help Americans stay up to date with the latest news and information. The Senators requested the White House Office of Management and Budget to work with federal agencies to increase advertising with local media outlets. The request will help local media outlets, "ensure they are able to continue to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.” Many federal agencies maintain advertising accounts to provide notices and information to the public. The recent passage of the CARES Act, according to the lawmakers, provides opportunity for the federal government to relay essential information to the public through local advertisements.

Senators seek support for rural broadcasters

The Department of Agriculture announced a coordination center to assist producers impacted by meat processing plant closures late last week. 

USDA says livestock and poultry producers face an unprecedented emergency due to COVID-19, particularly with the closing of meat processing plants in several states. 

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is establishing a National Incident Coordination Center to provide direct support to producers whose animals cannot move to market as a result of processing plant closures due to COVID-19. 

Going forward, APHIS' Coordination Center, State Veterinarians, and other state officials will assist in identifying potential alternative markets if a producer is unable to move animals, and, if necessary, advise and assist on depopulation and disposal methods. 

Additionally, APHIS will mobilize and deploy assets of the National Veterinary Stockpile as needed and secure the services of contractors that can supply additional equipment, personnel, and services, much as it did during the large-scale Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza emergency in 2015.

The Department of Agriculture announced a coordination center to assist producers impacted by meat processing plant closures late last week. USDA says livestock and poultry producers face an unprecedented emergency due to COVID-19, particularly with the closing of meat processing plants in several states. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is establishing a National Incident Coordination Center to provide direct support to producers whose animals cannot move to market as a result of processing plant closures due to COVID-19. Going forward, APHIS' Coordination Center, State Veterinarians, and other state officials will assist in identifying potential alternative markets if a producer is unable to move animals, and, if necessary, advise and assist on depopulation and disposal methods. Additionally, APHIS will mobilize and deploy assets of the National Veterinary Stockpile as needed and secure the services of contractors that can supply additional equipment, personnel, and services, much as it did during the large-scale Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza emergency in 2015.

USDA launches coordination center for livestock producers impacted by reduced demand

New guidance by the Centers for Disease Control seeks to protect meatpacking workers from COVID-19. The meat and poultry processing workers are not exposed to the virus through the meat products they handle. 

However, their work environments—processing lines and others where they have close contact with coworkers and supervisors—may contribute substantially to their potential exposures. Many meatpacking facilities across the nation have closed for short periods due to infection rates of workers at the facilities. 

The CDC says meatpackers should configure work environments so that workers are spaced at least six feet apart, if possible. Additionally, facilities should use physical barriers, such as strip curtains, plexiglass or similar materials, or other dividers or partitions, to separate meat and poultry processing workers from each other, if feasible. 

Further, facilities should consider consulting with a ventilation engineer to ensure adequate ventilation in work areas to minimize workers' potential exposures. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the response, saying the guidance protects workers, and supports the operation of beef processing plants.

New guidance by the Centers for Disease Control seeks to protect meatpacking workers from COVID-19. The meat and poultry processing workers are not exposed to the virus through the meat products they handle. However, their work environments—processing lines and others where they have close contact with coworkers and supervisors—may contribute substantially to their potential exposures. Many meatpacking facilities across the nation have closed for short periods due to infection rates of workers at the facilities. The CDC says meatpackers should configure work environments so that workers are spaced at least six feet apart, if possible. Additionally, facilities should use physical barriers, such as strip curtains, plexiglass or similar materials, or other dividers or partitions, to separate meat and poultry processing workers from each other, if feasible. Further, facilities should consider consulting with a ventilation engineer to ensure adequate ventilation in work areas to minimize workers' potential exposures. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the response, saying the guidance protects workers, and supports the operation of beef processing plants.

CDC issues updated guidance for meatpackers

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says additional aid authorized by Congress last week is encouraging, but lawmakers need to do more. 

Late last week, Congress passed new legislation to provide $484 billion in additional relief for Americans enduring hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes $310 billion for the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, which AEM says many equipment manufacturers are relying on to keep their operations going. 

However, AEM President Dennis Slater says,” too many equipment manufacturers are still struggling to stay open and on the job.” The Paycheck Protection Program is helpful for many small equipment manufacturers. Still, Slater says Congress must now turn their attention to a large number of manufacturers who do not qualify for this program but still desperately need support. 

AEM is the North American-based international trade group representing off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers, with more than 1,000 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture and construction-related industry sectors worldwide.

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says additional aid authorized by Congress last week is encouraging, but lawmakers need to do more. Late last week, Congress passed new legislation to provide $484 billion in additional relief for Americans enduring hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes $310 billion for the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, which AEM says many equipment manufacturers are relying on to keep their operations going. However, AEM President Dennis Slater says,” too many equipment manufacturers are still struggling to stay open and on the job.” The Paycheck Protection Program is helpful for many small equipment manufacturers. Still, Slater says Congress must now turn their attention to a large number of manufacturers who do not qualify for this program but still desperately need support. AEM is the North American-based international trade group representing off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers, with more than 1,000 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture and construction-related industry sectors worldwide.

AEM: additional relief promising, but more needed

Two more of the country’s ethanol plants are going offline amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says that underscores the industry’s need for help. 

“We just went through the third week in a row that ethanol production hit a record-breaking low, even as stockpiles hit a new record-breaking high,” Skor says. “The evaporation of fuel demand due to COVID-19 has been a knock-out blow to biofuel plants across the heartland, who were already fighting an uphill battle against trade barriers, regulatory threats, and a flood of foreign oil.” 

She says while half the industry is already offline, two more ADM plants, one in Iowa and the other in Nebraska, have been added to the growing list of plants impacted. 

“Ethanol producers represent the heart of the rural economy, and when they’re forced offline, the ripple effect can be felt across the agricultural supply chain, including farmers who are without a market for their crops, as well as meatpackers and ranchers who rely on local ethanol plants for animal feed and carbon dioxide,” she adds. 

“With plans to support the oil and gas industries already in place, it’s vital that policymakers give the same consideration to biofuel workers and farmers equally impacted by the disruptions to the motor fuel market.”

Two more of the country’s ethanol plants are going offline amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says that underscores the industry’s need for help. “We just went through the third week in a row that ethanol production hit a record-breaking low, even as stockpiles hit a new record-breaking high,” Skor says. “The evaporation of fuel demand due to COVID-19 has been a knock-out blow to biofuel plants across the heartland, who were already fighting an uphill battle against trade barriers, regulatory threats, and a flood of foreign oil.” She says while half the industry is already offline, two more ADM plants, one in Iowa and the other in Nebraska, have been added to the growing list of plants impacted. “Ethanol producers represent the heart of the rural economy, and when they’re forced offline, the ripple effect can be felt across the agricultural supply chain, including farmers who are without a market for their crops, as well as meatpackers and ranchers who rely on local ethanol plants for animal feed and carbon dioxide,” she adds. “With plans to support the oil and gas industries already in place, it’s vital that policymakers give the same consideration to biofuel workers and farmers equally impacted by the disruptions to the motor fuel market.”

Growth energy calls for relief for U.S. ethanol

Congress passed the Paycheck Protection Program Increase Act and President Trump signed in on Friday. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says his organization is pleased with congress passing more money for PPP. 

“America’s cattle producers are working hard every day to keep feeding America, even as they face more than $13 billion in financial losses while also tending to the health of their families during the pandemic,” Lane says. 

“We hope the swift passage of the PPP Act means more aid will be available to cattle producers.” Lane added that the NCBA is also grateful that Congress explicitly authorized producer eligibility for Economic Injury Disaster Loans and emergency grants administered by the Small Business Administration. 

Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council, says, “We will do everything in our power to get farmers and ranchers access to funding through the Paycheck Protection Program.” 

Public Lands Council President Bob Skinner says, “Federal lands ranchers play a major role in American agriculture, raising 60 percent of our nation’s sheep herd and 40 percent of the nation’s cattle herd. The expanded relief will help to make sure that the cattle and sheep industries can keep producing food and fiber.”

Congress passed the Paycheck Protection Program Increase Act and President Trump signed in on Friday. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says his organization is pleased with congress passing more money for PPP. “America’s cattle producers are working hard every day to keep feeding America, even as they face more than $13 billion in financial losses while also tending to the health of their families during the pandemic,” Lane says. “We hope the swift passage of the PPP Act means more aid will be available to cattle producers.” Lane added that the NCBA is also grateful that Congress explicitly authorized producer eligibility for Economic Injury Disaster Loans and emergency grants administered by the Small Business Administration. Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council, says, “We will do everything in our power to get farmers and ranchers access to funding through the Paycheck Protection Program.” Public Lands Council President Bob Skinner says, “Federal lands ranchers play a major role in American agriculture, raising 60 percent of our nation’s sheep herd and 40 percent of the nation’s cattle herd. The expanded relief will help to make sure that the cattle and sheep industries can keep producing food and fiber.”

PPP relief act passed by Congress expected to help agriculture

Bloomberg says China is looking at possible ways to speed up its purchases of American farm goods to meet its Phase One Trade Agreement commitments. 

However, it appears not everyone is happy with the idea. The government is looking at speeding up the process because the coronavirus delayed some imports. Proposals include potentially buying 10 million tons of U.S. soybeans for Chinese state reserves if demand from private buyers isn’t enough. 

China could also fulfill its annual import quota of corn, which is currently at 7.2 million tons, with grain from America. The Asian nation could also consider buying more than its quota, potentially reaching as high as 20 million tons of U.S. corn imports. China is also looking at buying one million tons of U.S. cotton for government reserves. 

However, Bloomberg points out that there is some opposition to the planned buys. Some officials are questioning whether the government should be trying to expedite U.S. purchases given the downturn in the Chinese economy after the coronavirus outbreak. The current round of discussions on the purchases is reported to be at the lower levels of the Chinese government, with no final decision made yet.

Bloomberg says China is looking at possible ways to speed up its purchases of American farm goods to meet its Phase One Trade Agreement commitments. However, it appears not everyone is happy with the idea. The government is looking at speeding up the process because the coronavirus delayed some imports. Proposals include potentially buying 10 million tons of U.S. soybeans for Chinese state reserves if demand from private buyers isn’t enough. China could also fulfill its annual import quota of corn, which is currently at 7.2 million tons, with grain from America. The Asian nation could also consider buying more than its quota, potentially reaching as high as 20 million tons of U.S. corn imports. China is also looking at buying one million tons of U.S. cotton for government reserves. However, Bloomberg points out that there is some opposition to the planned buys. Some officials are questioning whether the government should be trying to expedite U.S. purchases given the downturn in the Chinese economy after the coronavirus outbreak. The current round of discussions on the purchases is reported to be at the lower levels of the Chinese government, with no final decision made yet.

China studying how to expedite U.S. purchases despite opposition

A bipartisan group of senators wants the Trump Administration to remove the caps on the amount of direct coronavirus relief farmers can get under USDA’s new aid package. 

Politico says the $19 billion plan for relief, put together by President Trump and Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue, includes $16 billion in direct payments, which are capped at $125,000 per commodity and $250,000 per person. 

That’s in line with payment limits from the 2018 Farm Bill. In a letter to the president, 28 senators pointed out that the limits could disproportionately hurt some of the hardest-hit corners of agriculture. 

Perdue is hoping to launch the aid program in May, and the senators want the payment limits scrapped before USDA puts the finishing touches on the aid program. For example, fresh produce growers have higher production costs than other farmers. Strawberry growers can spend up to $30,000 an acre. 

The senators say that means the current payment limitations will be “too restrictive to meaningfully address the losses” they’re facing. Purdue has already said there won’t be enough money to help all sectors of agriculture, adding that getting rid of payment limitations will likely mean running out of money that much quicker.

A bipartisan group of senators wants the Trump Administration to remove the caps on the amount of direct coronavirus relief farmers can get under USDA’s new aid package. Politico says the $19 billion plan for relief, put together by President Trump and Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue, includes $16 billion in direct payments, which are capped at $125,000 per commodity and $250,000 per person. That’s in line with payment limits from the 2018 Farm Bill. In a letter to the president, 28 senators pointed out that the limits could disproportionately hurt some of the hardest-hit corners of agriculture. Perdue is hoping to launch the aid program in May, and the senators want the payment limits scrapped before USDA puts the finishing touches on the aid program. For example, fresh produce growers have higher production costs than other farmers. Strawberry growers can spend up to $30,000 an acre. The senators say that means the current payment limitations will be “too restrictive to meaningfully address the losses” they’re facing. Purdue has already said there won’t be enough money to help all sectors of agriculture, adding that getting rid of payment limitations will likely mean running out of money that much quicker.

Senators want farm payment caps removed

A coalition consisting of 68 farmer, environmental, and antitrust groups across the country sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin (Muh-NOO-chin) on consolidation. 

They’re asking him to ensure that pandemic relief funds do not lead to the further consolidation of the food and agriculture industry. The letter asks Mnuchin to invest the stimulus funds in farming systems that lift farmers and rural communities while providing opportunities for diverse, sustainable agriculture systems to thrive. 

The letter says the current food system that’s under the control of a few major corporate players isn’t sustainable, a reality brought forth by the COVID-19 outbreak. 

The letter says “While farmers and advocates of rural communities are closely watching how USDA will distribute the $9.5 billion allocated through the CARES Act, little discussion or oversight is being given to this other, much-larger pot of money with few strings attached.” 

The groups want Mnuchin to make sure that money doesn’t go straight from the Treasury Department into the pockets of larger corporations. “During this crisis, relief must be prioritized for the frontline workers and farmers who are the backbone of America’s food supply,” the letter adds. “Consolidation in food and agriculture has already taken a toll on the security of our food system.”

A coalition consisting of 68 farmer, environmental, and antitrust groups across the country sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin (Muh-NOO-chin) on consolidation. They’re asking him to ensure that pandemic relief funds do not lead to the further consolidation of the food and agriculture industry. The letter asks Mnuchin to invest the stimulus funds in farming systems that lift farmers and rural communities while providing opportunities for diverse, sustainable agriculture systems to thrive. The letter says the current food system that’s under the control of a few major corporate players isn’t sustainable, a reality brought forth by the COVID-19 outbreak. The letter says “While farmers and advocates of rural communities are closely watching how USDA will distribute the $9.5 billion allocated through the CARES Act, little discussion or oversight is being given to this other, much-larger pot of money with few strings attached.” The groups want Mnuchin to make sure that money doesn’t go straight from the Treasury Department into the pockets of larger corporations. “During this crisis, relief must be prioritized for the frontline workers and farmers who are the backbone of America’s food supply,” the letter adds. “Consolidation in food and agriculture has already taken a toll on the security of our food system.”

Groups ask treasury secretary to guard against further ag consolidation

Major countries involved in the World Trade Organization, including China and the U.S., pledged to keep from imposing restrictions on the free flow of food. 

Although a few countries have imposed such export restrictions, trade experts fear more food export bans could be on the horizon, which also happened during a global spike in the price of food in 2007. 

David Beasley is head of the World Food Program at the United Nations. He says famines of “biblical proportions” could take place because of the coronavirus pandemic if urgent steps aren’t taken. In a possible worst-case scenario, Beasley says famines could take hold in about “three dozen countries.” 

Ten of those countries already have more than one million people on the edge of starvation. A CNN report says Beasley appealed to UN member states to act now. 

“There are no famines yet,” he says. “But I must warn you, if we don’t act now to secure access, avoid funding shortfalls, and avoid disruptions to trade, we could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within only a few months.”

Major countries involved in the World Trade Organization, including China and the U.S., pledged to keep from imposing restrictions on the free flow of food. Although a few countries have imposed such export restrictions, trade experts fear more food export bans could be on the horizon, which also happened during a global spike in the price of food in 2007. David Beasley is head of the World Food Program at the United Nations. He says famines of “biblical proportions” could take place because of the coronavirus pandemic if urgent steps aren’t taken. In a possible worst-case scenario, Beasley says famines could take hold in about “three dozen countries.” Ten of those countries already have more than one million people on the edge of starvation. A CNN report says Beasley appealed to UN member states to act now. “There are no famines yet,” he says. “But I must warn you, if we don’t act now to secure access, avoid funding shortfalls, and avoid disruptions to trade, we could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within only a few months.”

Major WTO countries pledge to keep food exports flowing

Tyson Foods announced it will be indefinitely suspending operations at its plant in Waterloo, Iowa, which is its largest U.S. pork plant. That plant shutting down operations means approximately 15 percent of pork processing capacity across the country has gone offline. 

More than 150 of the country’s largest meat plants are in counties where the rate of COVID-19 infections is already relatively high. That’s according to a new investigation by USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting. 

The investigation found a rash of coronavirus outbreaks at dozens of meatpacking plants across the nation that’s far more extensive than first thought. An extensive review of the cases shows that it could get worse. The rate of infection around those 150 plants is higher than the rates of infection in 75 percent of the other counties across the country. 

Experts say the industry has maintained a sufficient level of production despite infections in more than 2,200 workers at 48 plants. Gary Anthone, the chief medical officer in Nebraska, says long-term care facilities were among the biggest initial concerns. 

“If there’s one thing that’s keeping me up nights right now, it’s the meat processing and manufacturing plants,” he says. &nbsp;

Tyson Foods announced it will be indefinitely suspending operations at its plant in Waterloo, Iowa, which is its largest U.S. pork plant. That plant shutting down operations means approximately 15 percent of pork processing capacity across the country has gone offline. More than 150 of the country’s largest meat plants are in counties where the rate of COVID-19 infections is already relatively high. That’s according to a new investigation by USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting. The investigation found a rash of coronavirus outbreaks at dozens of meatpacking plants across the nation that’s far more extensive than first thought. An extensive review of the cases shows that it could get worse. The rate of infection around those 150 plants is higher than the rates of infection in 75 percent of the other counties across the country. Experts say the industry has maintained a sufficient level of production despite infections in more than 2,200 workers at 48 plants. Gary Anthone, the chief medical officer in Nebraska, says long-term care facilities were among the biggest initial concerns. “If there’s one thing that’s keeping me up nights right now, it’s the meat processing and manufacturing plants,” he says. &nbsp;

Another meatpacking plant suspends operations

Three sources have told Reuters that China is looking to purchase up to 30 million tons of crops from the U.S. to help rebuild state stockpiles. The Asian nation is looking to protect itself from further supply chain disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak. 

It would also help China make good on its Phase One Trade Agreement promises to buy more U.S. crops. China is planning to buy approximately 10 million tons of soybeans, 20 million tons of corn, and one million tons of cotton and add them to its state reserves. 

Reuters says those numbers come from two of the sources who were briefed on the government’s plan. The bulk of the crops are expected to come from the United States. “The main message from Beijing is to help secure people’s livelihoods,” one of the sources tells Reuters. 

“It’s a good time to build up reserves, especially when the prices of the goods are at quite low levels.” Beijing is also planning to buy one million tons of sugar and two million tons of soybean oil to add to its reserves. The sources aren’t clear on where those supplies would be coming from. &nbsp;

Three sources have told Reuters that China is looking to purchase up to 30 million tons of crops from the U.S. to help rebuild state stockpiles. The Asian nation is looking to protect itself from further supply chain disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak. It would also help China make good on its Phase One Trade Agreement promises to buy more U.S. crops. China is planning to buy approximately 10 million tons of soybeans, 20 million tons of corn, and one million tons of cotton and add them to its state reserves. Reuters says those numbers come from two of the sources who were briefed on the government’s plan. The bulk of the crops are expected to come from the United States. “The main message from Beijing is to help secure people’s livelihoods,” one of the sources tells Reuters. “It’s a good time to build up reserves, especially when the prices of the goods are at quite low levels.” Beijing is also planning to buy one million tons of sugar and two million tons of soybean oil to add to its reserves. The sources aren’t clear on where those supplies would be coming from. &nbsp;

China expected to rebuild commodity reserves with U.S. buys

Bunge announced this week the company is selling 35 grain elevators to Japan-based Zen-Noh Grain Corporation. 

The elevators are located along the Mississippi River. ZGC's affiliate, CGB Enterprises, Inc., will operate the acquired facilities through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Consolidated Grain and Barge Company. CGB currently operates more than 100 grain origination facilities in the United States. 

The company says it serves a vital role as a direct connection to the U.S. farmer by providing an array of services from buying, storing, selling and shipping crops, to financing and risk management. 

The acquisition, according to the company, contributes to its ability to adequately source a stable supply of grains, oilseeds and feed ingredients for Japan and other destinations by strengthening its origination across a broader footprint in the United States. 

Meanwhile, Bunge’s storage network will decrease, but the company says, “certain supply agreements" with ZGC will result in a "larger and stronger origination and distribution network."

Bunge announced this week the company is selling 35 grain elevators to Japan-based Zen-Noh Grain Corporation. The elevators are located along the Mississippi River. ZGC's affiliate, CGB Enterprises, Inc., will operate the acquired facilities through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Consolidated Grain and Barge Company. CGB currently operates more than 100 grain origination facilities in the United States. The company says it serves a vital role as a direct connection to the U.S. farmer by providing an array of services from buying, storing, selling and shipping crops, to financing and risk management. The acquisition, according to the company, contributes to its ability to adequately source a stable supply of grains, oilseeds and feed ingredients for Japan and other destinations by strengthening its origination across a broader footprint in the United States. Meanwhile, Bunge’s storage network will decrease, but the company says, “certain supply agreements" with ZGC will result in a "larger and stronger origination and distribution network."

Bunge selling 35 U.S. grain elevators to Japan-based buyer

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Wednesday announced emergency benefit increases have reached $2.0 billion per month for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

The benefits represent a 40 percent increase in overall monthly SNAP benefits, significantly increasing food purchasing power for American families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, a household with two adults, three children, and no income can receive the maximum benefit of $768. 

However, due to reportable income and other factors, the average five-person household receives significantly less, $528. These emergency benefits would provide the average five-person household an additional $240 monthly in food purchasing power, bringing the average household up to the same benefit level as households already receiving the maximum. 

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provided for the issuance of emergency allotments in response to COVID-19. Across the United States, emergency allotments total nearly $2 billion per month, which is in addition to approximately $4.5 billion in benefits already provided to SNAP households each month.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue Wednesday announced emergency benefit increases have reached $2.0 billion per month for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The benefits represent a 40 percent increase in overall monthly SNAP benefits, significantly increasing food purchasing power for American families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, a household with two adults, three children, and no income can receive the maximum benefit of $768. However, due to reportable income and other factors, the average five-person household receives significantly less, $528. These emergency benefits would provide the average five-person household an additional $240 monthly in food purchasing power, bringing the average household up to the same benefit level as households already receiving the maximum. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provided for the issuance of emergency allotments in response to COVID-19. Across the United States, emergency allotments total nearly $2 billion per month, which is in addition to approximately $4.5 billion in benefits already provided to SNAP households each month.

USDA increases monthly SNAP benefits by 40 percent

An analysis released by the National Corn Growers Association shows cash corn prices have declined by 16 percent on average. 

Several regions are experiencing declines of more than 20 percent, since March 1, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis projects a $50 per acre revenue decline for the 2019 corn crop. 

NCGA commissioned the economic analysis, conducted by Dr. Gary Schnitkey of the University of Illinois, to better understand the economic impact of the global pandemic on the corn industry. Schnitkey writes in the study, “Corn will be one of the most impacted crops as its two largest uses – livestock feed and ethanol – are under pressure.” 

NCGA will use the data to create solutions to help corn farmers and their customers recover. The analysis was based on cash corn prices as of mid-April and estimated losses would likely increase through the rest of the marketing year. Further analysis is already underway for the 2020 crop year, with losses anticipated to be higher than those in 2019.

An analysis released by the National Corn Growers Association shows cash corn prices have declined by 16 percent on average. Several regions are experiencing declines of more than 20 percent, since March 1, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis projects a $50 per acre revenue decline for the 2019 corn crop. NCGA commissioned the economic analysis, conducted by Dr. Gary Schnitkey of the University of Illinois, to better understand the economic impact of the global pandemic on the corn industry. Schnitkey writes in the study, “Corn will be one of the most impacted crops as its two largest uses – livestock feed and ethanol – are under pressure.” NCGA will use the data to create solutions to help corn farmers and their customers recover. The analysis was based on cash corn prices as of mid-April and estimated losses would likely increase through the rest of the marketing year. Further analysis is already underway for the 2020 crop year, with losses anticipated to be higher than those in 2019.

NCGA analysis shows $50 per acre revenue declines for corn due to COVID-19

Producers signed a record 1.77 million contracts for the Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2019 crop year. 

The signup total represents more than 107 percent of the total contracts signed compared with a five-year average. Farm Service Agency Administrator Richard Fordyce says farmers are using the programs to mitigate risks, and “recognize that ARC and PLC provide the financial protections they need to weather substantial drops in crop prices or revenues.” 

Producers interested in enrolling for 2020 should contact their FSA county office. Producers must enroll by June 30 and make their one-time update to PLC payment yields by September 30. FSA attributes the significant participation in the 2019 crop year ARC and PLC programs to increased producer interest in the programs under the 2018 Farm Bill. 

FSA says the growth also comes from an increase in eligible farms because of the selling and buying of farms and new opportunities for beginning farmers and military veterans with farms having ten or fewer base acres.

Producers signed a record 1.77 million contracts for the Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2019 crop year. The signup total represents more than 107 percent of the total contracts signed compared with a five-year average. Farm Service Agency Administrator Richard Fordyce says farmers are using the programs to mitigate risks, and “recognize that ARC and PLC provide the financial protections they need to weather substantial drops in crop prices or revenues.” Producers interested in enrolling for 2020 should contact their FSA county office. Producers must enroll by June 30 and make their one-time update to PLC payment yields by September 30. FSA attributes the significant participation in the 2019 crop year ARC and PLC programs to increased producer interest in the programs under the 2018 Farm Bill. FSA says the growth also comes from an increase in eligible farms because of the selling and buying of farms and new opportunities for beginning farmers and military veterans with farms having ten or fewer base acres.

USDA reports record enrollment in key farm safety-net programs

The Department of Agriculture will hold a virtual job fair for positions at the Economic Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Kansas City, Missouri. 

USDA is partnering with the University of Missouri to host a joint Virtual Career Expo on April 28, 2020, building on an event last year that attracted more than 400 attendees. 

Both agencies relocated most of their operations to the Kansas City region last fall and are continuing to grow their workforces. Deputy Under Secretary Scott Hutchins says, “This is a unique time for our nation and USDA continues to build the ERS and NIFA workforce using innovative techniques.” 

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many event cancellations, or a pivot to virtual events, such as the virtual job fair. Representatives from ERS, NIFA, and the Office of Personnel and Management will conduct information sessions during the Virtual Expo about the agencies and available positions, how to apply for federal jobs and benefits of working for the federal government.

The Department of Agriculture will hold a virtual job fair for positions at the Economic Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Kansas City, Missouri. USDA is partnering with the University of Missouri to host a joint Virtual Career Expo on April 28, 2020, building on an event last year that attracted more than 400 attendees. Both agencies relocated most of their operations to the Kansas City region last fall and are continuing to grow their workforces. Deputy Under Secretary Scott Hutchins says, “This is a unique time for our nation and USDA continues to build the ERS and NIFA workforce using innovative techniques.” The COVID-19 pandemic forced many event cancellations, or a pivot to virtual events, such as the virtual job fair. Representatives from ERS, NIFA, and the Office of Personnel and Management will conduct information sessions during the Virtual Expo about the agencies and available positions, how to apply for federal jobs and benefits of working for the federal government.

USDA to host virtual career fair in Kansas City

The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives urges the Department of Agriculture to focus on the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has on farmers' mental health. 

In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week, the organization says, "for some, mental health may become as or more important than financial health." 

Farmers have reached the point of decisions to destroy or abandon their produce, dump their milk, and even destroy livestock. The letter states, “The frustration of seeing the value of your hard work going for naught can compound feelings of depression.” 

The letter notes that USDA, together with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, has been active for several years to help producers struggling with farm stress. 

The organization says USDA could leverage this experience at this time to provide a lifeline to farmers and ranchers struggling with the impacts of this crisis. The letter suggests that USDA convey to producers that they are not alone, this is not their fault, and they will get through this pandemic and its impact on agriculture.

The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives urges the Department of Agriculture to focus on the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has on farmers' mental health. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue this week, the organization says, "for some, mental health may become as or more important than financial health." Farmers have reached the point of decisions to destroy or abandon their produce, dump their milk, and even destroy livestock. The letter states, “The frustration of seeing the value of your hard work going for naught can compound feelings of depression.” The letter notes that USDA, together with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, has been active for several years to help producers struggling with farm stress. The organization says USDA could leverage this experience at this time to provide a lifeline to farmers and ranchers struggling with the impacts of this crisis. The letter suggests that USDA convey to producers that they are not alone, this is not their fault, and they will get through this pandemic and its impact on agriculture.

Farmer co-ops urge attention to farmer mental health issues

Lawmakers reached an agreement Tuesday to allow agriculture to participate in the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. 

The agreement is part of a larger deal, a $484 billion coronavirus package to extend the Paycheck Protection Program. The agreement also includes funds for small lenders and community banks, funds for national coronavirus testing and funding for hospitals. 

The bill includes an additional $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Senator John Hoeven, a Republican from North Dakota, told the Hagstrom Report, “farmers and ranchers are working hard to continue providing our nation with food, fuel and fiber, and this is one way we can help support them during this pandemic.” 

The provision means ag businesses can now apply for low-interest loans through the program and may also qualify for the $10,000 emergency grants. To be eligible, ag businesses will have to show that they have been hurt by the economic downturn caused by coronavirus.

Lawmakers reached an agreement Tuesday to allow agriculture to participate in the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. The agreement is part of a larger deal, a $484 billion coronavirus package to extend the Paycheck Protection Program. The agreement also includes funds for small lenders and community banks, funds for national coronavirus testing and funding for hospitals. The bill includes an additional $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Senator John Hoeven, a Republican from North Dakota, told the Hagstrom Report, “farmers and ranchers are working hard to continue providing our nation with food, fuel and fiber, and this is one way we can help support them during this pandemic.” The provision means ag businesses can now apply for low-interest loans through the program and may also qualify for the $10,000 emergency grants. To be eligible, ag businesses will have to show that they have been hurt by the economic downturn caused by coronavirus.

Agreement reached on expanding coronavirus Aid, ag eligibility ​in EIDL

The national average price of gasoline dropped another five cents over the last week. Fuel prices have declined for eight straight weeks amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a flooded oil market. 

GasBuddy reports the national average price of gasoline at $1.78 per gallon, while the national average price of diesel fell 2.9 cents to $2.49 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick DeHaan says, “unprecedented demand destruction has been dismantling expensive gas prices everywhere.” 

Data from the Energy Information Administration last Wednesday highlighted another blowout week for oil and refined products inventories. 

Crude oil inventories skyrocketed 19.2 million barrels- the single largest weekly rise, ever, while gasoline jumped nearly five million barrels, and distillate inventories jumped 6.3 million barrels. Demand for gasoline remained anemic at 5.08 million barrels per day, while GasBuddy demand figures put the loss around 55-70 percent by state as millions are staying at home and some now without work. 

Refineries also pulled back, utilizing just 69.1 percent of their capacity at a time of year they’re typically north of 90-95 percent.

The national average price of gasoline dropped another five cents over the last week. Fuel prices have declined for eight straight weeks amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a flooded oil market. GasBuddy reports the national average price of gasoline at $1.78 per gallon, while the national average price of diesel fell 2.9 cents to $2.49 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick DeHaan says, “unprecedented demand destruction has been dismantling expensive gas prices everywhere.” Data from the Energy Information Administration last Wednesday highlighted another blowout week for oil and refined products inventories. Crude oil inventories skyrocketed 19.2 million barrels- the single largest weekly rise, ever, while gasoline jumped nearly five million barrels, and distillate inventories jumped 6.3 million barrels. Demand for gasoline remained anemic at 5.08 million barrels per day, while GasBuddy demand figures put the loss around 55-70 percent by state as millions are staying at home and some now without work. Refineries also pulled back, utilizing just 69.1 percent of their capacity at a time of year they’re typically north of 90-95 percent.