U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai applauded the European Union’s announcement that it’s extending the suspension of tariffs on U.S. Goods. “For the past two years, the United States and European Union have engaged in critically important negotiations,” Tai said in a statement. 

“Our goal is to negotiate a forward-looking arrangement that will allow us to join forces economically to incentivize fair and clean production and trade in the steel and aluminum sectors.” She points out that challenges remain as two new wars have started and global economic disruptions have continued since the negotiations began in 2021. 

“These are technically complex negotiations and the United States remains committed to our partnership with the EU and to staying at the table to continue the progress we’ve made so far,” Tai adds. “I’m glad the EU has announced that it is taking steps to join us in extending the time for these negotiations.”

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai applauded the European Union’s announcement that it’s extending the suspension of tariffs on U.S. Goods. “For the past two years, the United States and European Union have engaged in critically important negotiations,” Tai said in a statement. “Our goal is to negotiate a forward-looking arrangement that will allow us to join forces economically to incentivize fair and clean production and trade in the steel and aluminum sectors.” She points out that challenges remain as two new wars have started and global economic disruptions have continued since the negotiations began in 2021. “These are technically complex negotiations and the United States remains committed to our partnership with the EU and to staying at the table to continue the progress we’ve made so far,” Tai adds. “I’m glad the EU has announced that it is taking steps to join us in extending the time for these negotiations.”- NAFB

EU will continue tariff suspension on U.S. goods

A group of Midwest governors requested the Biden administration grant them the ability to sell E15 year-round, and that request hasn’t been granted. Lawmakers in both Congressional chambers are pushing for approval. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are demanding the Office of Management and Budget finalize the necessary waiver quickly. 

That would allow retailers time to prepare for summer 2024 sales. The Iowa lawmakers are leading the bicameral push alongside Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN). “This rulemaking should have been completed in July 2022, and unfortunately, we still have no regulatory certainty for our fuel retailers, fuel blenders, or biofuel producers more than 16 months later,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the administration. 

“Homegrown American-produced ethanol strengthens our national security and ensures lower vehicle emissions to achieve the administration’s climate goals.” Lawmakers want the governors’ request finalized quickly to bring much-needed certainty to farmers, retailers, and consumers.

A group of Midwest governors requested the Biden administration grant them the ability to sell E15 year-round, and that request hasn’t been granted. Lawmakers in both Congressional chambers are pushing for approval. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are demanding the Office of Management and Budget finalize the necessary waiver quickly. That would allow retailers time to prepare for summer 2024 sales. The Iowa lawmakers are leading the bicameral push alongside Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN). “This rulemaking should have been completed in July 2022, and unfortunately, we still have no regulatory certainty for our fuel retailers, fuel blenders, or biofuel producers more than 16 months later,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the administration. “Homegrown American-produced ethanol strengthens our national security and ensures lower vehicle emissions to achieve the administration’s climate goals.” Lawmakers want the governors’ request finalized quickly to bring much-needed certainty to farmers, retailers, and consumers.- NAFB

Lawmakers continue pushing for unrestricted E15 sales

The annual Midwest Crops Conference is scheduled for January 2024 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Formerly the “Certified Crops Advisor Conference,” the two-day event targets people looking for Continuing Education Units, including crop advisors, ag industry professionals, and farmers. 

“This workshop will provide in-depth discussion on several topics to help agricultural professionals enhance their crop production recommendations to farmers,” says Denice Ferguson, a member of the conference committee. Researchers and experts in crop production from the University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, and Iowa State University will present up-to-date information from their areas of expertise. 

“Anyone advising or managing an agricultural operation or serving the ag industry knows that research and technology is driving this sector,” Ferguson says. “Advancements in agronomy, pest management, and crop technologies bring improvements to farmers’ yields, efficiency, and risk management.” The conference will offer 15.5 hours of Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop ‘Advisors.

The annual Midwest Crops Conference is scheduled for January 2024 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Formerly the “Certified Crops Advisor Conference,” the two-day event targets people looking for Continuing Education Units, including crop advisors, ag industry professionals, and farmers. “This workshop will provide in-depth discussion on several topics to help agricultural professionals enhance their crop production recommendations to farmers,” says Denice Ferguson, a member of the conference committee. Researchers and experts in crop production from the University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, and Iowa State University will present up-to-date information from their areas of expertise. “Anyone advising or managing an agricultural operation or serving the ag industry knows that research and technology is driving this sector,” Ferguson says. “Advancements in agronomy, pest management, and crop technologies bring improvements to farmers’ yields, efficiency, and risk management.” The conference will offer 15.5 hours of Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop ‘Advisors.- NAFB

Midwest crops conference in January

Despite a drop in key operating costs, Rabobank says contracted margins in 2023 will continue into the new year. Soybean farmers are likely to achieve good margins in the 2024 season, but corn farmers will feel their margins pressured by ample supply. 

Wheat margins are unlikely to see better margins despite declining costs. Trends are indicating that the markets are at a pivotal point. Rabobank says uncertainty rises from factors like record Brazilian crops, more “adequate” crops in the U.S. and Europe, and expectations of another record crop in Brazil in 2024. 

Global domestic demand for key crops declined, which points to building stocks and lower prices. Weather challenges and geopolitical instability coupled with economic uncertainty prompt consideration of a risk premium in the market. Rabobank says corn exhibits the least upside potential, with wheat presenting the highest upside potential. Soybeans likely fall somewhere in between. Volatility is likely in 2024.

Despite a drop in key operating costs, Rabobank says contracted margins in 2023 will continue into the new year. Soybean farmers are likely to achieve good margins in the 2024 season, but corn farmers will feel their margins pressured by ample supply. Wheat margins are unlikely to see better margins despite declining costs. Trends are indicating that the markets are at a pivotal point. Rabobank says uncertainty rises from factors like record Brazilian crops, more “adequate” crops in the U.S. and Europe, and expectations of another record crop in Brazil in 2024. Global domestic demand for key crops declined, which points to building stocks and lower prices. Weather challenges and geopolitical instability coupled with economic uncertainty prompt consideration of a risk premium in the market. Rabobank says corn exhibits the least upside potential, with wheat presenting the highest upside potential. Soybeans likely fall somewhere in between. Volatility is likely in 2024.- NAFB

Tighter margins ahead in 2024

The USDA says agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year beginning on December 18, and the deadline to complete enrollment and any election changes is March 15, 2024. 

The current farm bill was extended through September 30, 2024, allowing authorized programs like ARC and PLC to continue operating. “It’s business as usual for ARC and PLC implementation for the 2024 crop year,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. 

“These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment.” He also advises producers to avoid the rush and contact their local FSA Office for an appointment because even with no changes in program elections for next year, farmers still need to sign a contract to enroll.

The USDA says agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year beginning on December 18, and the deadline to complete enrollment and any election changes is March 15, 2024. The current farm bill was extended through September 30, 2024, allowing authorized programs like ARC and PLC to continue operating. “It’s business as usual for ARC and PLC implementation for the 2024 crop year,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment.” He also advises producers to avoid the rush and contact their local FSA Office for an appointment because even with no changes in program elections for next year, farmers still need to sign a contract to enroll.- NAFB

ARC and PLC 2024 enrollment is open

The USDA’s December Livestock Outlook says higher cow slaughter and heavier-than-assumed carcass weights will offset lower fed cattle slaughter in the fourth quarter of 2023. 

That will leave the beef production forecast for 2023 unchanged. Expected heavier carcasses will carry over into early 2024 along with higher cow slaughter. Fourth-quarter pork production was raised 25 million pounds to 7.09 billion pounds, 2.4 percent higher than during the same period last year. Hog prices are expected to average $54 per hundredweight for the quarter, 15 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2022. 

First-quarter hog prices are lowered by $1 per hundredweight to $56 as soft consumer pork demand is likely to persist, limiting hog price increases. Lamb and mutton import forecasts are lower in the December report compared to the previous month. In poultry, projected broiler production is adjusted higher for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October.

The USDA’s December Livestock Outlook says higher cow slaughter and heavier-than-assumed carcass weights will offset lower fed cattle slaughter in the fourth quarter of 2023. That will leave the beef production forecast for 2023 unchanged. Expected heavier carcasses will carry over into early 2024 along with higher cow slaughter. Fourth-quarter pork production was raised 25 million pounds to 7.09 billion pounds, 2.4 percent higher than during the same period last year. Hog prices are expected to average $54 per hundredweight for the quarter, 15 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2022. First-quarter hog prices are lowered by $1 per hundredweight to $56 as soft consumer pork demand is likely to persist, limiting hog price increases. Lamb and mutton import forecasts are lower in the December report compared to the previous month. In poultry, projected broiler production is adjusted higher for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October.- NAFB

December 2023 livestock outlook

The USDA reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses. The expenses are part of the process for obtaining or renewing a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. 

“The program is one of the many ways USDA helps support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging all specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification, meet regulatory requirements, and apply by the January deadline.” 

Eligible operations must grow specialty crops, meet the definition of a small business, and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification. The application for 2023 closes January 31, 2024, and FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. For more information, growers should visit farmers.gov.

The USDA reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses. The expenses are part of the process for obtaining or renewing a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. “The program is one of the many ways USDA helps support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging all specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification, meet regulatory requirements, and apply by the January deadline.” Eligible operations must grow specialty crops, meet the definition of a small business, and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification. The application for 2023 closes January 31, 2024, and FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. For more information, growers should visit farmers.gov.- NAFB

Specialty crop growers reminded to apply for assistance

The U.S. Treasury Department will use a modified version of the GREET model as a measurement to determine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. 

The agency will use the model as it allocates tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels under the Inflation Reduction Act. The National Corn Growers Association was pleased to hear the Treasury’s decision. “Given that GREET was created by the government and is widely respected for its ability to measure reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the farm to the plane, we’re encouraged by this,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. 

“We’re eager to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and look forward to helping ensure the final model helps achieve that goal.” GREET, which stands for the Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure greenhouse emissions from the field to the car or plane.

The U.S. Treasury Department will use a modified version of the GREET model as a measurement to determine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The agency will use the model as it allocates tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels under the Inflation Reduction Act. The National Corn Growers Association was pleased to hear the Treasury’s decision. “Given that GREET was created by the government and is widely respected for its ability to measure reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the farm to the plane, we’re encouraged by this,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We’re eager to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and look forward to helping ensure the final model helps achieve that goal.” GREET, which stands for the Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure greenhouse emissions from the field to the car or plane.- NAFB

Good news for the sustainable aviation fuel industry

Barbara O’Brien, president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc., spoke about challenges facing agriculture during the Sustainable Agriculture Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina.

With challenges like a growing global population that needs more food, significant geopolitical challenges, and many others, she says, “We need to take a more thoughtful approach to building resilient food systems, and agriculture must be at the forefront.”

The Summit was co-hosted by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and several other national ag organizations to convene the collective food and agriculture value chain to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient U.S. food system. One highlight of the Sustainable Ag Summit included producers in different U.S. ag sectors sharing how they approach sustainability on their farms.

Barbara O’Brien, president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc., spoke about challenges facing agriculture during the Sustainable Agriculture Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina.With challenges like a growing global population that needs more food, significant geopolitical challenges, and many others, she says, “We need to take a more thoughtful approach to building resilient food systems, and agriculture must be at the forefront.”The Summit was co-hosted by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and several other national ag organizations to convene the collective food and agriculture value chain to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient U.S. food system. One highlight of the Sustainable Ag Summit included producers in different U.S. ag sectors sharing how they approach sustainability on their farms.

Collaboration, Momentum at Sustainable Agriculture Summit

Global coarse grain production is projected as higher due to higher production forecasts for Ukraine, Russia, and the EU, which are partly offset by a reduction for Mexico. Barley production in Canada and Australia is also projected higher.

Coarse grain exports for the October-September trade year increased by 2.3 million tons. The increased global exports are predominantly due to larger corn export forecasts for the U.S. and Ukraine, and larger forecasts for Australian and Canadian barley. Mexico is expected to take in more corn imports, and China will boost barley imports. The U.S. feed grain forecast is unchanged at 400 million metric tons. Total feed grain supply is 439.4 million metric tons.

Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly to Mexico, contribute to a 25 million bushel increase in the 2023-2024 U.S. corn export forecast. The corn and sorghum season-average prices remain unchanged, but barley and oats prices will rise.

Global coarse grain production is projected as higher due to higher production forecasts for Ukraine, Russia, and the EU, which are partly offset by a reduction for Mexico. Barley production in Canada and Australia is also projected higher.Coarse grain exports for the October-September trade year increased by 2.3 million tons. The increased global exports are predominantly due to larger corn export forecasts for the U.S. and Ukraine, and larger forecasts for Australian and Canadian barley. Mexico is expected to take in more corn imports, and China will boost barley imports. The U.S. feed grain forecast is unchanged at 400 million metric tons. Total feed grain supply is 439.4 million metric tons.Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly to Mexico, contribute to a 25 million bushel increase in the 2023-2024 U.S. corn export forecast. The corn and sorghum season-average prices remain unchanged, but barley and oats prices will rise.-NAFB

Global Corn Production Rises

USDA will begin issuing more than $223 million in Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program payments.

These payments will help producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue due to COVID-19 for the 2020 calendar year. Eligible applicants must have been in the farming business during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year as compared to a baseline year.

PARP benefits help address gaps in previous assistance, which was targeted at price loss or lack of market access rather than overall revenue losses. “PARP payments mark the delivery of the final suite of assistance programs provided by the Farm Service Agency and are also one of the first times that the agency delivered a program focused on revenue decreases,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.

For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.

USDA will begin issuing more than $223 million in Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program payments.These payments will help producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue due to COVID-19 for the 2020 calendar year. Eligible applicants must have been in the farming business during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year as compared to a baseline year.PARP benefits help address gaps in previous assistance, which was targeted at price loss or lack of market access rather than overall revenue losses. “PARP payments mark the delivery of the final suite of assistance programs provided by the Farm Service Agency and are also one of the first times that the agency delivered a program focused on revenue decreases,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.-NAFB

USDA to Start Issuing Pandemic Assistance Payments

Hog producers must prepare for increased scrutiny of their
herds for signs of salmonella.

Veterinarian Greg Cline with Boehringer Ingelheim reminds
producers the Food Safety Inspection Service will soon increase its salmonella
monitoring, likely at the beginning of the new year.

Cline says though new rules might be coming, old practices
remain the same.

“The things we’ve always known about reducing salmonella is the
good husbandry practices,” Cline tells KFEQ in an interview. “Good sanitation
between groups, rodent control. You know, we’ve been preaching that for a
hundred years and it’s still true.”

No hog producers should be alarmed about the new regulations,
though.

“I don’t know that I would consider them bad or ornery or
difficult,” Cline says. “Anytime we can protect and improve food safety in pork
it’s a good thing. Even though we wish it wasn’t the case, pork is still the
third most common cause of salmonella food borne illness in people.”

Perception is always important. Cline says America must
maintain its reputation for having a safe food supply. Cline points out
Boehringer Ingelheim has vaccines that can help.

Cline advises to simply be aware of the changes coming and
talk to your vet.

“Salmonella reduction on your facility is well worth doing,”
Cline says. “Salmonella’s a robber of performance. It’s a great idea to go
after reducing salmonella on your farm and in the future, it’s going to help
you and your pork going forward.”

Cline says any steps to reduce the risk of salmonella is
beneficial to the hog industry.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostHog producers must prepare for increased scrutiny of their
herds for signs of salmonella.Veterinarian Greg Cline with Boehringer Ingelheim reminds
producers the Food Safety Inspection Service will soon increase its salmonella
monitoring, likely at the beginning of the new year.Cline says though new rules might be coming, old practices
remain the same.“The things we’ve always known about reducing salmonella is the
good husbandry practices,” Cline tells KFEQ in an interview. “Good sanitation
between groups, rodent control. You know, we’ve been preaching that for a
hundred years and it’s still true.”No hog producers should be alarmed about the new regulations,
though.“I don’t know that I would consider them bad or ornery or
difficult,” Cline says. “Anytime we can protect and improve food safety in pork
it’s a good thing. Even though we wish it wasn’t the case, pork is still the
third most common cause of salmonella food borne illness in people.”Perception is always important. Cline says America must
maintain its reputation for having a safe food supply. Cline points out
Boehringer Ingelheim has vaccines that can help.Cline advises to simply be aware of the changes coming and
talk to your vet.“Salmonella reduction on your facility is well worth doing,”
Cline says. “Salmonella’s a robber of performance. It’s a great idea to go
after reducing salmonella on your farm and in the future, it’s going to help
you and your pork going forward.”Cline says any steps to reduce the risk of salmonella is
beneficial to the hog industry.

Boehringer Ingelheim warns about coming federal salmonella rules

More than two months into fiscal year 2024, Congress has yet to provide additional funding for hunger programs. Additional funding is for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program in 2024, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. 

WIC's funding needs have grown due to higher-than-expected participation and food costs. Congress has fully funded WIC for more than 25 years. If Congress fails to do so and continues WIC's current funding level for the rest of the fiscal year, WIC will face a roughly $1 billion shortfall. The Center estimates that as a result, states would need to reduce WIC participation by about two million participants nationwide by September.

 If Congress extends the current funding level rather than fully funding WIC, USDA could take measures to protect the program. But the authority is limited and could only close roughly half of a $1 billion shortfall. The Center adds, "Congress must fully fund WIC to avoid jeopardizing the health of about two million very young children and pregnant or postpartum adults."

More than two months into fiscal year 2024, Congress has yet to provide additional funding for hunger programs. Additional funding is for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program in 2024, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. WIC's funding needs have grown due to higher-than-expected participation and food costs. Congress has fully funded WIC for more than 25 years. If Congress fails to do so and continues WIC's current funding level for the rest of the fiscal year, WIC will face a roughly $1 billion shortfall. The Center estimates that as a result, states would need to reduce WIC participation by about two million participants nationwide by September. If Congress extends the current funding level rather than fully funding WIC, USDA could take measures to protect the program. But the authority is limited and could only close roughly half of a $1 billion shortfall. The Center adds, "Congress must fully fund WIC to avoid jeopardizing the health of about two million very young children and pregnant or postpartum adults."- NAFB

Report: 2 million participants could be turned away from WIC

Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, on March 25 - 28, 2024. 

USDA is inviting U.S. exporters wishing to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. Taylor says, "We see tremendous potential for growth as the demand for health and fitness, ready-to-eat, and convenience products is growing, providing a great opportunity for U.S. exporters to expand their sales in the region." The trade mission will offer U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their food and agricultural exports to the region. 

While in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors and distributors. Additionally, attendees will receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts. U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this agribusiness trade mission must apply&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8-g1Gl0PjLPMg9IhJrJmJfXAhlQlUMllVNFExNDg0VkhFR1pRMjNTS0hIREVJMC4u">online</a>&nbsp;by December 18, 2023.

Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, on March 25 - 28, 2024. USDA is inviting U.S. exporters wishing to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. Taylor says, "We see tremendous potential for growth as the demand for health and fitness, ready-to-eat, and convenience products is growing, providing a great opportunity for U.S. exporters to expand their sales in the region." The trade mission will offer U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their food and agricultural exports to the region. While in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors and distributors. Additionally, attendees will receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts. U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this agribusiness trade mission must apply&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8-g1Gl0PjLPMg9IhJrJmJfXAhlQlUMllVNFExNDg0VkhFR1pRMjNTS0hIREVJMC4u">online</a>&nbsp;by December 18, 2023.- NAFB

USDA’s Alexis Taylor to lead trade mission to the Republic of Korea

Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst and Tammy Baldwin are leading a bipartisan push to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer. Iowa Republicans Grassley and Ernst, along with Wisconsin Democrat Baldwin, have introduced the Fertilizer Research Act. 

The legislation would require the Department of Agriculture to study competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price. Grassley says, "With fertilizer being one of the ag industry's highest input costs, it's problematic farmers have such a limited window into market fluctuations." 

Within one year of the bill's passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Council, would be required to issue a report on USDA's website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry. The report would include a description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price, market trends in the past 25 years, and impacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, among other research items.

Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst and Tammy Baldwin are leading a bipartisan push to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer. Iowa Republicans Grassley and Ernst, along with Wisconsin Democrat Baldwin, have introduced the Fertilizer Research Act. The legislation would require the Department of Agriculture to study competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price. Grassley says, "With fertilizer being one of the ag industry's highest input costs, it's problematic farmers have such a limited window into market fluctuations." Within one year of the bill's passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Council, would be required to issue a report on USDA's website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry. The report would include a description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price, market trends in the past 25 years, and impacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, among other research items.- NAFB

Grassley, Baldwin, Ernst team up to bring transparency to fertilizer market

The global agriculture system will be expected to provide more food as the world's population increases.

To better understand how the world agriculture system may grow in response by 2050, researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service created a range of scenarios based on population growth. Under medium population growth, production worldwide would have to increase to 14,060 trillion crop calories to feed 9.75 billion people in 2050.

This is a 47-percent increase in crop calories from a 2011 baseline. Crop calories, the total calories available from crops, are a measure of the size of global agriculture since crops can be either consumed directly as food or fed to animals to be consumed as meat, dairy products, and eggs. In a high population growth scenario, 15,410 trillion crop calories would be needed to feed 10.8 billion people, a 61-percent increase in calories from the 2011 baseline.

With both the medium and high population growth scenarios, researchers assumed that as per capita incomes rise, people would increase their overall consumption of calories.

The global agriculture system will be expected to provide more food as the world's population increases.To better understand how the world agriculture system may grow in response by 2050, researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service created a range of scenarios based on population growth. Under medium population growth, production worldwide would have to increase to 14,060 trillion crop calories to feed 9.75 billion people in 2050.This is a 47-percent increase in crop calories from a 2011 baseline. Crop calories, the total calories available from crops, are a measure of the size of global agriculture since crops can be either consumed directly as food or fed to animals to be consumed as meat, dairy products, and eggs. In a high population growth scenario, 15,410 trillion crop calories would be needed to feed 10.8 billion people, a 61-percent increase in calories from the 2011 baseline.With both the medium and high population growth scenarios, researchers assumed that as per capita incomes rise, people would increase their overall consumption of calories.-NAFB

Population and Income Drive World Food Production Projections

For the 12th consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 9.6 cents from a week ago to $3.12 per gallon.

The national average is down 23.7 cents from a month ago and 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 8.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.10 per gallon— 86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With nearly 80,000 gas stations in the U.S. now priced below $3 per gallon, and 23 states also seeing average prices of $2.99 or less, motorists are getting substantial relief at the pump in time for the holidays."

For the 12th consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 9.6 cents from a week ago to $3.12 per gallon.The national average is down 23.7 cents from a month ago and 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 8.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.10 per gallon— 86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With nearly 80,000 gas stations in the U.S. now priced below $3 per gallon, and 23 states also seeing average prices of $2.99 or less, motorists are getting substantial relief at the pump in time for the holidays."-NAFB&nbsp;

Fuel Prices Post 12 Weeks of Decline

New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows H-2A usage reached new highs in fiscal year 2023.

The Market Intel report says that comes despite an increase in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which outpaced the hourly wage growth rate of all private employees. This increase in both demand for workers and wage rate continues to put stress on the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers. The data shows the total number of certified H-2A positions at 378,513, an increase of two percent over fiscal year 2022.

While this is a slower rate of increase than in years past, the number of positions certified is still up by more than 100,000 workers compared to fiscal year 2020. This is coupled with a nearly 19 percent increase in the required wage rate since fiscal year 2020, causing labor to be one of the costliest aspects of doing business for farmers and ranchers.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This data shows how important and urgent it is that we get a workable fix for the H-2A program and the AEWR.”

New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows H-2A usage reached new highs in fiscal year 2023.The Market Intel report says that comes despite an increase in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which outpaced the hourly wage growth rate of all private employees. This increase in both demand for workers and wage rate continues to put stress on the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers. The data shows the total number of certified H-2A positions at 378,513, an increase of two percent over fiscal year 2022.While this is a slower rate of increase than in years past, the number of positions certified is still up by more than 100,000 workers compared to fiscal year 2020. This is coupled with a nearly 19 percent increase in the required wage rate since fiscal year 2020, causing labor to be one of the costliest aspects of doing business for farmers and ranchers.AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This data shows how important and urgent it is that we get a workable fix for the H-2A program and the AEWR.”-NAFB

Despite Rising Wage Rate, Farmers Must Rely on H-2A Program

New York City has a plan in place to become the first city on the East Coast to transition all heavy-duty vehicles in the city’s fleet from fossil to renewable fuel. The fleet includes more than 12,600 on- and off-road trucks and specialized equipment that operates on diesel fuel. 

By the end of 2024, they’ll all operate on renewable diesel. Renewable diesel is proven to reduce carbon emissions and will replace up to 16 million gallons of fossil fuel used annually to power the city’s heavy-duty fleet, which includes garbage trucks and ambulances. After the full rollout of 16 million gallons of renewable diesel, the city will have cut 128 billion grams of carbon dioxide pollution each year. 

The transition already began in September with 2.5 million gallons of renewable diesel already used across heavy-duty vehicles. Renewable diesel fully replaces fossil diesel, protecting the environment and delivering the same quality fuel.

New York City has a plan in place to become the first city on the East Coast to transition all heavy-duty vehicles in the city’s fleet from fossil to renewable fuel. The fleet includes more than 12,600 on- and off-road trucks and specialized equipment that operates on diesel fuel. By the end of 2024, they’ll all operate on renewable diesel. Renewable diesel is proven to reduce carbon emissions and will replace up to 16 million gallons of fossil fuel used annually to power the city’s heavy-duty fleet, which includes garbage trucks and ambulances. After the full rollout of 16 million gallons of renewable diesel, the city will have cut 128 billion grams of carbon dioxide pollution each year. The transition already began in September with 2.5 million gallons of renewable diesel already used across heavy-duty vehicles. Renewable diesel fully replaces fossil diesel, protecting the environment and delivering the same quality fuel.- NAFB

New York City moving to renewable diesel

The National Corn Growers Association joined 57 organizations in urging the International Trade Commission to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer are having on farms. 

The concerns were expressed in a letter that comes after the ITC was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider its determination of material injury in a decision issued earlier in September. “Rising prices for fertilizer inputs have strained America’s farmers and ranchers and have impacted availability for this critical component of nutrient and yield management,” the letter says. 

“Without predictable options to source this product, farmers struggle to plan for the future.” The groups noted that issues surrounding the international supply chain further complicate farmers’ ability to source phosphate. It also says the ITC originally made some inferences on the ability to re-ship products that are not grounded in reality. Efforts to reduce the duties will continue for months.

The National Corn Growers Association joined 57 organizations in urging the International Trade Commission to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer are having on farms. The concerns were expressed in a letter that comes after the ITC was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider its determination of material injury in a decision issued earlier in September. “Rising prices for fertilizer inputs have strained America’s farmers and ranchers and have impacted availability for this critical component of nutrient and yield management,” the letter says. “Without predictable options to source this product, farmers struggle to plan for the future.” The groups noted that issues surrounding the international supply chain further complicate farmers’ ability to source phosphate. It also says the ITC originally made some inferences on the ability to re-ship products that are not grounded in reality. Efforts to reduce the duties will continue for months.- NAFB

Ag community writes trade commission regarding tariffs

A new report from the EPA’s Hypoxia Task Force shows that the hard work of farmers and ranchers to reduce nutrient losses in the Mississippi River watershed is paying off. The report reveals the 12 participating states have met interim nitrogen reduction goals two years ahead of schedule and are also making considerable progress in bringing down phosphorous losses. 

The goals are part of a comprehensive strategy established by state and federal agencies across the Mississippi River watershed region. Farmers and ranchers were tasked with helping to reduce nutrient losses by 20 percent by 2025. 

“Farmers are problem-solvers by nature, and the work being done in the Mississippi River is proof of what happens when we come together,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “I commend the farmers in each of the states for their instrumental role in making these strides and encourage continued work to meet the 2035 goals.”

A new report from the EPA’s Hypoxia Task Force shows that the hard work of farmers and ranchers to reduce nutrient losses in the Mississippi River watershed is paying off. The report reveals the 12 participating states have met interim nitrogen reduction goals two years ahead of schedule and are also making considerable progress in bringing down phosphorous losses. The goals are part of a comprehensive strategy established by state and federal agencies across the Mississippi River watershed region. Farmers and ranchers were tasked with helping to reduce nutrient losses by 20 percent by 2025. “Farmers are problem-solvers by nature, and the work being done in the Mississippi River is proof of what happens when we come together,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “I commend the farmers in each of the states for their instrumental role in making these strides and encourage continued work to meet the 2035 goals.”- NAFB

Farmers meet nitrogen loss goals two years early

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced USDA is fulfilling some long-standing Tribal requests. Specifically, USDA is partnering with Tribal Nations in empowering Tribal food sovereignty and co-stewardship of federal lands and waters. 

Secretary Vilsack announced the first grant recipients under the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and advances in Forest Service co-stewardship with Tribes, including 120 new agreements totaling more than $68 million in investments. Secretary Vilsack also announced the inaugural appointees of the new Tribal Advisory Committee. Secretary Vilsack made the announcements at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit, where Tribal leaders gathered for conversations with President Biden and senior administration officials. 

Vilsack says, "As Tribes have requested, we are reshaping our programs to incorporate Tribal and Indigenous perspectives, remove barriers, and encourage Tribal self-determination." Vilsack says the investments will create economic opportunities in Tribal communities, elevate the agency's work to increase co-stewardship in forest management, and increase the availability of affordable, healthy protein sources from Indigenous animals.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced USDA is fulfilling some long-standing Tribal requests. Specifically, USDA is partnering with Tribal Nations in empowering Tribal food sovereignty and co-stewardship of federal lands and waters. Secretary Vilsack announced the first grant recipients under the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and advances in Forest Service co-stewardship with Tribes, including 120 new agreements totaling more than $68 million in investments. Secretary Vilsack also announced the inaugural appointees of the new Tribal Advisory Committee. Secretary Vilsack made the announcements at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit, where Tribal leaders gathered for conversations with President Biden and senior administration officials. Vilsack says, "As Tribes have requested, we are reshaping our programs to incorporate Tribal and Indigenous perspectives, remove barriers, and encourage Tribal self-determination." Vilsack says the investments will create economic opportunities in Tribal communities, elevate the agency's work to increase co-stewardship in forest management, and increase the availability of affordable, healthy protein sources from Indigenous animals.- NAFB

USDA fulfills long-standing tribal requests

In 2022, more than a third of U.S. dollars spent on domestically produced food went to foodservice establishments, which includes restaurants and other food-away-from-home outlets. At 34.1 cents per food dollar in 2022, the foodservice share increased 1.6 cents from 2021 to reach its highest value in the USDA, Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. 

Industry groups add value by transforming the inputs they purchase from other industry groups and selling their output at higher prices. For instance, foodservice establishments prepare meals using food bought from distributors, such as those in the wholesale trade industry group, and utilities, such as gas and electricity, bought from establishments in the energy industry group. 

Prices paid by customers include the value added by the restaurant and the cumulative value added by all establishments before the restaurant. Annual shifts in the food dollar shares among industry groups occur for various reasons, including changes in the balance of food at home and away from home.

In 2022, more than a third of U.S. dollars spent on domestically produced food went to foodservice establishments, which includes restaurants and other food-away-from-home outlets. At 34.1 cents per food dollar in 2022, the foodservice share increased 1.6 cents from 2021 to reach its highest value in the USDA, Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. Industry groups add value by transforming the inputs they purchase from other industry groups and selling their output at higher prices. For instance, foodservice establishments prepare meals using food bought from distributors, such as those in the wholesale trade industry group, and utilities, such as gas and electricity, bought from establishments in the energy industry group. Prices paid by customers include the value added by the restaurant and the cumulative value added by all establishments before the restaurant. Annual shifts in the food dollar shares among industry groups occur for various reasons, including changes in the balance of food at home and away from home.- NAFB

Foodservice claims largest share of U.S. food dollars

The Department of Agriculture has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless. 

The online application also provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA's Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. 

Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, "With USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations." Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA's Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool.

The Department of Agriculture has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless. The online application also provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA's Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, "With USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations." Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA's Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool.- NAFB

USDA now accepting applications for farm loans online

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced updated to the Federal Crop Insurance Program. The updates affirm the use of USDA conservation practices as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. 

Recently, USDA’s Risk Management Agency updated the Good Farming Practices Handbook, as part of the agency’s broader efforts to support conservation and climate-smart activities as well as to improve crop insurance for agricultural producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “This update affirms producers can have peace of mind that using conservation practices will not impact their crop insurance.” 

The updated handbook recognizes all conservation practices offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Essentially, appropriate use of NRCS conservation practices will have no impact on crop insurance coverage, which affirms how the rules have worked on the ground for years. The updated handbook builds on similar efforts, including RMA’s designation of planting cover crops as a Good Farming Practice in 2019.

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced updated to the Federal Crop Insurance Program. The updates affirm the use of USDA conservation practices as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Recently, USDA’s Risk Management Agency updated the Good Farming Practices Handbook, as part of the agency’s broader efforts to support conservation and climate-smart activities as well as to improve crop insurance for agricultural producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “This update affirms producers can have peace of mind that using conservation practices will not impact their crop insurance.” The updated handbook recognizes all conservation practices offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Essentially, appropriate use of NRCS conservation practices will have no impact on crop insurance coverage, which affirms how the rules have worked on the ground for years. The updated handbook builds on similar efforts, including RMA’s designation of planting cover crops as a Good Farming Practice in 2019.- NAFB