U.S. ag groups and elected officials all expressed disappointment with the revised Waters of the U.S. rule issued this week by the Environmental Protection Agency. 

“The agency failed to open the process to public comment, which would have been extremely valuable,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. 

American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “These revisions are window dressing and leave in place much of the rule’s confusing and harmful foundations.” 

Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says they’re disappointed in the agency’s disregard for both the procedural need to invite public input for consideration and for May’s Supreme Court ruling. 

House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says EPA’s “sleight-of-hand” in circumventing the rulemaking process leaves the door open to agency abuse and uncertainty for U.S. agriculture. Darren Coppock, president and CEO of the Ag Retailers Association, says this is a missed opportunity by the EPA.

U.S. ag groups and elected officials all expressed disappointment with the revised Waters of the U.S. rule issued this week by the Environmental Protection Agency. “The agency failed to open the process to public comment, which would have been extremely valuable,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “These revisions are window dressing and leave in place much of the rule’s confusing and harmful foundations.” Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says they’re disappointed in the agency’s disregard for both the procedural need to invite public input for consideration and for May’s Supreme Court ruling. House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says EPA’s “sleight-of-hand” in circumventing the rulemaking process leaves the door open to agency abuse and uncertainty for U.S. agriculture. Darren Coppock, president and CEO of the Ag Retailers Association, says this is a missed opportunity by the EPA.- NAFB

U.S. ag groups react negatively to WOTUS changes

In another show of opposition to the EATS Act, 30 senators sent a letter to Ag Committee leaders opposing a sweeping bill to nullify state agricultural laws called the EATS Act. 

The letter came a week after 172 House members signed a similar letter addressed to House Ag Committee leaders. 

Over 200 federal lawmakers spanning 35 states have publicly stated that neither the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act nor anything similar should be a part of the upcoming farm bill. 

“It’s not one state that’s trying to foist its standards on the rest of the country,” says Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. 

“It’s the NPPC that’s trying to force every state to accept the terms of any other state that chooses not to ensure humane safety standards for agricultural products within its borders.” Additionally, 577 veterinary professionals and 78 veterinary students signed letters opposing the EATS Act.

In another show of opposition to the EATS Act, 30 senators sent a letter to Ag Committee leaders opposing a sweeping bill to nullify state agricultural laws called the EATS Act. The letter came a week after 172 House members signed a similar letter addressed to House Ag Committee leaders. Over 200 federal lawmakers spanning 35 states have publicly stated that neither the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act nor anything similar should be a part of the upcoming farm bill. “It’s not one state that’s trying to foist its standards on the rest of the country,” says Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “It’s the NPPC that’s trying to force every state to accept the terms of any other state that chooses not to ensure humane safety standards for agricultural products within its borders.” Additionally, 577 veterinary professionals and 78 veterinary students signed letters opposing the EATS Act.- NAFB

Senators show opposition to EATS Act

The Federation of State Beef Councils has supported an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership since 1963. 

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils, continues setting a positive course for beef. 

Recent program successes include Nutrition Research which serves as the foundation for all Beef Checkoff-funded initiatives. Nutrition research proves beef has a role in a healthy and sustainable diet. 

The National Beef Quality Audit is the foundational research providing an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors. 

The 2022 NBQA results showed that the industry is more efficiently producing a high-quality product that consumers want. One of the industry’s top focus areas across the supply chain remains food safety. 

Cow-calf producers, stockers, and feedyards implement Beef Quality Assurance practices on their operations to produce the highest-quality cattle and the best possible eating experience for consumers.

The Federation of State Beef Councils has supported an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership since 1963. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils, continues setting a positive course for beef. Recent program successes include Nutrition Research which serves as the foundation for all Beef Checkoff-funded initiatives. Nutrition research proves beef has a role in a healthy and sustainable diet. The National Beef Quality Audit is the foundational research providing an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors. The 2022 NBQA results showed that the industry is more efficiently producing a high-quality product that consumers want. One of the industry’s top focus areas across the supply chain remains food safety. Cow-calf producers, stockers, and feedyards implement Beef Quality Assurance practices on their operations to produce the highest-quality cattle and the best possible eating experience for consumers.- NAFB

Unified Vision driving Beef Checkoff success

New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the majority of potatoes in the United States are now sold in processed forms such as frozen, chipped, dehydrated, or canned. 

With the introduction of french fries as a key side dish in quick-service restaurants, the share of potatoes that go into frozen products has risen in each decade since 1979. As a result, almost half of all potatoes going into food in the United States are now used to create frozen products—most of which are french fries. Meanwhile, the share of potatoes used as fresh table potatoes has declined decade by decade. Per capita frozen potato availability during the pandemic-influenced 2019–21 period, up eight percent from a decade earlier. 

New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the majority of potatoes in the United States are now sold in processed forms such as frozen, chipped, dehydrated, or canned. With the introduction of french fries as a key side dish in quick-service restaurants, the share of potatoes that go into frozen products has risen in each decade since 1979. As a result, almost half of all potatoes going into food in the United States are now used to create frozen products—most of which are french fries. Meanwhile, the share of potatoes used as fresh table potatoes has declined decade by decade. Per capita frozen potato availability during the pandemic-influenced 2019–21 period, up eight percent from a decade earlier.

Nearly half of potatoes now go into frozen products

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers Tuesday announced a final rule amending the 2023 definition of “waters of the United States.” 

The final rule intends to conform with the recent Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. With this action, the Army Corps of Engineers will resume issuing all jurisdictional determinations. The rule will take effect immediately. In response, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “Today’s revised WOTUS definition is an important step toward bringing the EPA more in line with the Supreme Court's ruling." 

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers Tuesday announced a final rule amending the 2023 definition of “waters of the United States.” The final rule intends to conform with the recent Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. With this action, the Army Corps of Engineers will resume issuing all jurisdictional determinations. The rule will take effect immediately. In response, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “Today’s revised WOTUS definition is an important step toward bringing the EPA more in line with the Supreme Court's ruling."

EPA and Army amend “Waters of the United States” rule

A new study from the National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board highlights how the soybean industry impacts the U.S. economy. This 33-page study analyzes the soybean value chain’s impact on the U.S. economy based on data from crop years 2019/20 to 2021/22. 

The data shows the total economic impact from the U.S. soybean sector averaged $124 billion, including $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from soybean processing. The U.S. soy sector accounts for approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. There are more than 500,000 individuals involved in soy farm decision-making. This includes 223,000 paid, full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 62,000 family members, beyond growers, who reside on farms and are integral to soybean farming operations. 

The total wage impact of the sector averaged $10 billion. USB Chair and Missouri farmer Meagan Kaiser says, “It’s reaffirming to see that the U.S. soybean industry has such a tremendous impact on U.S. farmers and the economy overall.”

A new study from the National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board highlights how the soybean industry impacts the U.S. economy. This 33-page study analyzes the soybean value chain’s impact on the U.S. economy based on data from crop years 2019/20 to 2021/22. The data shows the total economic impact from the U.S. soybean sector averaged $124 billion, including $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from soybean processing. The U.S. soy sector accounts for approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. There are more than 500,000 individuals involved in soy farm decision-making. This includes 223,000 paid, full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 62,000 family members, beyond growers, who reside on farms and are integral to soybean farming operations. The total wage impact of the sector averaged $10 billion. USB Chair and Missouri farmer Meagan Kaiser says, “It’s reaffirming to see that the U.S. soybean industry has such a tremendous impact on U.S. farmers and the economy overall.”- NAFB

Study: US soybean industry has $124 billion impact on the economy

The merger of Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit Farm Credit cooperatives will be effective October 1, 2023.

The merger will create one Farm Credit Association with enhanced marketplace stability, increased funding capacity, and better access to technology. The voting stockholders of Farm Credit of New Mexico re-voted for the proposed merger after a reconsideration process established by the Farm Credit Administration.

American AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, "This merger makes us a better partner for our customers." Hudnutt will lead the merged American AgCredit, which will have more than 900 employees. The October 1, 2023, effective merger date is pending final Farm Credit Association approval.

American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. Farm Credit of New Mexico is the largest agricultural lender in New Mexico, a $2 billion cooperative specializing in agricultural lending and related services.

The merger of Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit Farm Credit cooperatives will be effective October 1, 2023.The merger will create one Farm Credit Association with enhanced marketplace stability, increased funding capacity, and better access to technology. The voting stockholders of Farm Credit of New Mexico re-voted for the proposed merger after a reconsideration process established by the Farm Credit Administration.American AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, "This merger makes us a better partner for our customers." Hudnutt will lead the merged American AgCredit, which will have more than 900 employees. The October 1, 2023, effective merger date is pending final Farm Credit Association approval.American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. Farm Credit of New Mexico is the largest agricultural lender in New Mexico, a $2 billion cooperative specializing in agricultural lending and related services.-NAFB

Farm Credit Farmer-Owned Cooperatives Merger Effective October 1

For the first time in over a month, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 4.0 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon.

The national average is up 5.8 cents from a month ago but 3.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 3.3 cents in the last week to $4.33 per gallon, 70.7 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The drop may be short-lived, as one of the nation's largest refineries partially shut last week after a fire at a storage tank, and as we see more tropical activity that could lead to further disruption."

After rallying for seven straight weeks, oil prices have lost some of their luster, much of which can be blamed on continued weakness in China’s economy, and refinery issues in the U.S. limiting how much crude oil refineries will be able to process.

For the first time in over a month, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 4.0 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon.The national average is up 5.8 cents from a month ago but 3.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 3.3 cents in the last week to $4.33 per gallon, 70.7 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The drop may be short-lived, as one of the nation's largest refineries partially shut last week after a fire at a storage tank, and as we see more tropical activity that could lead to further disruption."After rallying for seven straight weeks, oil prices have lost some of their luster, much of which can be blamed on continued weakness in China’s economy, and refinery issues in the U.S. limiting how much crude oil refineries will be able to process.-NAFB

Gas Lower, Diesel Higher, Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend the 2023 Farm Progress Show Wednesday to announce a major investment in clean energy for rural Americans.

Wednesday morning, Vilsack will join Representative Nikki Budzinski, an Illinois Democrat, at a meeting of her Agriculture Advisory Council. There, Vilsack will hear firsthand from producers and officials about the state of agriculture in Illinois. Later, Secretary Vilsack will deliver remarks at the main Farm Progress stage. USDA says Vilsack will announce a significant investment to help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and generate income.

Vilsack is scheduled to make the announcement at noon central time, which will be livestreamed at farmprogress.com. Meanwhile, Vilsack announced $808 million to help rural cooperatives and utilities build and improve electric infrastructure Monday. The funding will also help provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems in rural areas.

The announcement will benefit nearly 480,000 people in 36 states and two U.S. territories.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend the 2023 Farm Progress Show Wednesday to announce a major investment in clean energy for rural Americans.Wednesday morning, Vilsack will join Representative Nikki Budzinski, an Illinois Democrat, at a meeting of her Agriculture Advisory Council. There, Vilsack will hear firsthand from producers and officials about the state of agriculture in Illinois. Later, Secretary Vilsack will deliver remarks at the main Farm Progress stage. USDA says Vilsack will announce a significant investment to help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and generate income.Vilsack is scheduled to make the announcement at noon central time, which will be livestreamed at farmprogress.com. Meanwhile, Vilsack announced $808 million to help rural cooperatives and utilities build and improve electric infrastructure Monday. The funding will also help provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems in rural areas.The announcement will benefit nearly 480,000 people in 36 states and two U.S. territories.-NAFB

Vilsack Making Clean Energy Announcement at Farm Progress Show

The Economic Policy Institute says employers routinely underpay farm workers, among other workplace violations, but federal investigations into problems like these have dropped to an all-time low. 

The institute says that’s likely because of funding and staffing constraints. A new report says Congress must increase funding for labor standards enforcement to protect farmworkers. Since 2000, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen investigations drop by more than 60 percent. The division only has 810 investigators to protect all 165 million workers in the U.S. That means fewer than one percent of farm employers get investigated every year. From 2000 to 2022, H-2A visa program violations accounted for almost half of back wages and civil money penalties owed by farm employers. 

The EPI wants Congress to stop hobbling the Department of Labor and provide resources for strong investment in farm worker protections. They also want stiffer fines imposed on chronic offenders.

The Economic Policy Institute says employers routinely underpay farm workers, among other workplace violations, but federal investigations into problems like these have dropped to an all-time low. The institute says that’s likely because of funding and staffing constraints. A new report says Congress must increase funding for labor standards enforcement to protect farmworkers. Since 2000, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen investigations drop by more than 60 percent. The division only has 810 investigators to protect all 165 million workers in the U.S. That means fewer than one percent of farm employers get investigated every year. From 2000 to 2022, H-2A visa program violations accounted for almost half of back wages and civil money penalties owed by farm employers. The EPI wants Congress to stop hobbling the Department of Labor and provide resources for strong investment in farm worker protections. They also want stiffer fines imposed on chronic offenders.- NAFB

Record-low number of federal wage and hour investigations of farms

The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor saw improvements in parts of California and Nevada because of the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm brought record-breaking rainfall accumulations and incidents of flash flooding and mudslides. 

In the Midwest, light precipitation accumulations fell in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and northern Michigan. Drought conditions worsened in areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, where both short and long-term precipitation deficits continue. Areas of Moderate Drought (D1) and Severe Drought (D2) were removed in Michigan. No changes were made this week in the Plains states, while some minor improvements took place in northwest Wyoming, and some conditions worsened in South Central Colorado. 

While some improvement took place in areas of Kansas and Nebraska, long-term dry signals remain in place through most of the region. In the South, drought-related conditions continued deteriorating as the hot and dry pattern continued across most of the region.

The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor saw improvements in parts of California and Nevada because of the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm brought record-breaking rainfall accumulations and incidents of flash flooding and mudslides. In the Midwest, light precipitation accumulations fell in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and northern Michigan. Drought conditions worsened in areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, where both short and long-term precipitation deficits continue. Areas of Moderate Drought (D1) and Severe Drought (D2) were removed in Michigan. No changes were made this week in the Plains states, while some minor improvements took place in northwest Wyoming, and some conditions worsened in South Central Colorado. While some improvement took place in areas of Kansas and Nebraska, long-term dry signals remain in place through most of the region. In the South, drought-related conditions continued deteriorating as the hot and dry pattern continued across most of the region.- NAFB

Weekly drought monitor shows spotty improvement

The Pro Farmer Crop Tour recently wrapped up its 2023 expedition after traveling through corn and soybean fields in multiple states. After predicting yield estimates for each state, Pro Farmer puts all the numbers together to come up with its national harvest predictions for corn and soybeans. 

Pro Farmer predicts a national corn yield of 14.96 billion bushels and an average yield of 172 bushels per acre. The Pro Farmer national soybean yield prediction is 4.11 billion bushels and an average yield of 49.7 bushels an acre. The national estimates reflect Pro Farmer’s views on production and yields. They consider the data gathered and weather conditions during the Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields, and areas outside those sampled on the tour. 

The Pro Farmer Crop Tour recently wrapped up its 2023 expedition after traveling through corn and soybean fields in multiple states. After predicting yield estimates for each state, Pro Farmer puts all the numbers together to come up with its national harvest predictions for corn and soybeans. Pro Farmer predicts a national corn yield of 14.96 billion bushels and an average yield of 172 bushels per acre. The Pro Farmer national soybean yield prediction is 4.11 billion bushels and an average yield of 49.7 bushels an acre. The national estimates reflect Pro Farmer’s views on production and yields. They consider the data gathered and weather conditions during the Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields, and areas outside those sampled on the tour.

Pro Farmer releases national crop yield estimates

Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. 

National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. 

The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. 

It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. 

This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available.

Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available.- NAFB

Breakthrough in fight against African Swine Fever

The Panama Canal is responsible for facilitating trade as 40 percent of worldwide cargo ship traffic uses it to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. 

Marine Insight says almost two-thirds of the canal’s traffic load is either heading to or leaving the United States. 

The group managing the Canal restricted the number of ships passing through each day, as well as the amount of cargo they could carry. 

They made the decision because of the decreasing water supply caused by the ongoing drought due to El Niño conditions. That will mean fewer than 34 ships can move through the canal in both directions every day. 

That’s compared to the 34 to 42 it can handle at peak capacity. The new restrictions are in place until Monday, August 21, and could force companies to find alternative routes. The canal system depends on lakes whose levels are now close to their minimum points.

The Panama Canal is responsible for facilitating trade as 40 percent of worldwide cargo ship traffic uses it to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Marine Insight says almost two-thirds of the canal’s traffic load is either heading to or leaving the United States. The group managing the Canal restricted the number of ships passing through each day, as well as the amount of cargo they could carry. They made the decision because of the decreasing water supply caused by the ongoing drought due to El Niño conditions. That will mean fewer than 34 ships can move through the canal in both directions every day. That’s compared to the 34 to 42 it can handle at peak capacity. The new restrictions are in place until Monday, August 21, and could force companies to find alternative routes. The canal system depends on lakes whose levels are now close to their minimum points.- NAFB

Drought threatens shipping on the Panama Canal

National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. 

He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. 

“NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. 

Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says.

National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. “NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says.- NAFB

NCGA President testifies on the value of Atrazine

Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. 

The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. 

The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." 

Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.”

Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.”- NAFB

Growth Energy supports EPA Refinery Exemption Decisions

USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. 

The grant program provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research. 

Fiscal year 2023 funding is awarded to the departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. 

States are encouraged to sub-award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. 

Funded projects include investing in food safety, specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes, developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops, and pest and disease control. This year's awards mark over $1 billion invested in nearly 12,000 projects supporting the U.S. specialty crop industry.

USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The grant program provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research. Fiscal year 2023 funding is awarded to the departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. States are encouraged to sub-award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. Funded projects include investing in food safety, specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes, developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops, and pest and disease control. This year's awards mark over $1 billion invested in nearly 12,000 projects supporting the U.S. specialty crop industry.-NAFB

USDA announces funding to support U.S. Specialty Crop Producers

USDA’s Economic Research Service says emergency allotments were central to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program spending growth during the pandemic. 

SNAP participation and inflation-adjusted spending grew each year from fiscal year 2007–13 following the Great Recession and from FY 2019–21 following the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Average monthly participation increased faster, for longer, and by a greater amount following the Great Recession than during the pandemic, peaking at 47.6 million participants in FY 2013. 

Emergency allotments were issued as monthly supplements in response to the pandemic, bringing all recipients’ benefits to the maximum allowed each month beginning in 2020. In 2021, emergency allotments and other disaster supplements accounted for $39.2 billion, almost a third of total spending. 

Excluding spending on emergency allotments and other disaster supplements, total spending was only $81.6 billion in FY 2021, about $15 billion less than FY 2013 spending, adjusting for inflation. Emergency allotments ended in all states in early 2023.

USDA’s Economic Research Service says emergency allotments were central to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program spending growth during the pandemic. SNAP participation and inflation-adjusted spending grew each year from fiscal year 2007–13 following the Great Recession and from FY 2019–21 following the COVID-19 pandemic. Average monthly participation increased faster, for longer, and by a greater amount following the Great Recession than during the pandemic, peaking at 47.6 million participants in FY 2013. Emergency allotments were issued as monthly supplements in response to the pandemic, bringing all recipients’ benefits to the maximum allowed each month beginning in 2020. In 2021, emergency allotments and other disaster supplements accounted for $39.2 billion, almost a third of total spending. Excluding spending on emergency allotments and other disaster supplements, total spending was only $81.6 billion in FY 2021, about $15 billion less than FY 2013 spending, adjusting for inflation. Emergency allotments ended in all states in early 2023.- NAFB

Emergency allotments central to SNAP spending growth during pandemic

Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. 

The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. 

In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." 

Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. 

The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns.

Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns.- NAFB

Farmers for Free Trade calls on presidential candidates to prioritize trade

New research shows labor shortages present persistent challenges for regional economies but can also create opportunities for young workers. 

The research, published Tuesday on the University of Illinois farmdocDAILY&nbsp;<a href="https://farmdocdaily.illinois.edu/2023/08/youth-employment-trends-in-the-midwestern-united-states.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=Tue+Aug+22+2023&amp;utm_campaign=Youth+Employment+Trends+in+the+Midwestern+United+States">website</a>, shows youth employment can also help employers fill the part-time, low-wage, and often seasonal positions.

Generation Z is relatively smaller than the millennial generation. As a result, fewer young people are working because there are simply fewer young people. 

However, every Midwestern state had a higher labor force participation rate among workers aged 16 to 19 than the nation. The highest levels of youth employment occur in relatively small, rural counties. Additionally, the food service and accommodation industry and the retail sector employ the most young workers. 

The research concludes that connecting young people to beneficial, rather than exploitative, work opportunities is a critical step in building and sustaining the local labor force, but it also directs them toward opportunities that might lead to a career.

New research shows labor shortages present persistent challenges for regional economies but can also create opportunities for young workers. The research, published Tuesday on the University of Illinois farmdocDAILY&nbsp;<a href="https://farmdocdaily.illinois.edu/2023/08/youth-employment-trends-in-the-midwestern-united-states.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=Tue+Aug+22+2023&amp;utm_campaign=Youth+Employment+Trends+in+the+Midwestern+United+States">website</a>, shows youth employment can also help employers fill the part-time, low-wage, and often seasonal positions. Generation Z is relatively smaller than the millennial generation. As a result, fewer young people are working because there are simply fewer young people. However, every Midwestern state had a higher labor force participation rate among workers aged 16 to 19 than the nation. The highest levels of youth employment occur in relatively small, rural counties. Additionally, the food service and accommodation industry and the retail sector employ the most young workers. The research concludes that connecting young people to beneficial, rather than exploitative, work opportunities is a critical step in building and sustaining the local labor force, but it also directs them toward opportunities that might lead to a career.- NAFB

Youth employment trends in the Midwest

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced $150 million to help underserved and small acreage forest landowners connect to emerging voluntary climate markets. 

The markets can provide economic opportunities for landowners and incentivize improved forest health and management. 

The Forest Service Funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Vilsack announced the funding opportunity at the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Conference. Forests are powerful tools in the fight against climate change, according to USDA, and emerging voluntary private-sector markets are now creating economic incentives to keep forests healthy and productive. 

However, high acreage requirements and prohibitive start-up costs have caused many small-acreage and underserved private forest owners to be left behind. Without financial incentives, these landowners may not have the resources to manage forests for long-term health and resilience. 

Without proper management, forests are more susceptible to wildfire, loss of habitat, and reduced water quality. The Forest Service anticipates future funding opportunities, including one specifically targeted to engage tribal nations.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced $150 million to help underserved and small acreage forest landowners connect to emerging voluntary climate markets. The markets can provide economic opportunities for landowners and incentivize improved forest health and management. The Forest Service Funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. Vilsack announced the funding opportunity at the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Conference. Forests are powerful tools in the fight against climate change, according to USDA, and emerging voluntary private-sector markets are now creating economic incentives to keep forests healthy and productive. However, high acreage requirements and prohibitive start-up costs have caused many small-acreage and underserved private forest owners to be left behind. Without financial incentives, these landowners may not have the resources to manage forests for long-term health and resilience. Without proper management, forests are more susceptible to wildfire, loss of habitat, and reduced water quality. The Forest Service anticipates future funding opportunities, including one specifically targeted to engage tribal nations.- NAFB

USDA announces forest management funding

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced nearly $700 million in grants and loans as part of USDA’s ReConect Program. 

The funding will connect thousands of rural residents, farmers and business owners in 22 states to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. 

Vilsack says, “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs along the way.” 

The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program, as the program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030. 

Funding for this round of grants comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and includes $667 million of funded projects. A full list of funded projects is available on USDA's Rural Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/usda-rd-reconnect-round4-tranche3-chart-08182023.pdf">website</a>.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced nearly $700 million in grants and loans as part of USDA’s ReConect Program. The funding will connect thousands of rural residents, farmers and business owners in 22 states to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. Vilsack says, “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs along the way.” The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program, as the program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030. Funding for this round of grants comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and includes $667 million of funded projects. A full list of funded projects is available on USDA's Rural Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/media/file/download/usda-rd-reconnect-round4-tranche3-chart-08182023.pdf">website</a>.- NAFB

USDA announces nearly $700 million in rural broadband funding

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Indonesia's Minister of Trade Monday. 

Tai and Zulkifli Hasan discussed progress through the U.S.-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement Work Plan, including issues related to trade facilitation, standards and the digital economy. 

Ambassador Tai and Minister Hasan also discussed progress and updates on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. 

The ministers also discussed the U.S.-Indonesia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Ambassador Tai noted that the United States views this TIFA as an important mechanism for discussing bilateral trade issues. Later this week, Tai will travel to India for the G20 Trade &amp; Investment Ministers' Meeting. 

Tai will also meet with business leaders and hold bilateral meetings with government officials. The meetings follow last week’s effort with Taiwan, as USR and Taiwan held an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Indonesia's Minister of Trade Monday. Tai and Zulkifli Hasan discussed progress through the U.S.-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement Work Plan, including issues related to trade facilitation, standards and the digital economy. Ambassador Tai and Minister Hasan also discussed progress and updates on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The ministers also discussed the U.S.-Indonesia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Ambassador Tai noted that the United States views this TIFA as an important mechanism for discussing bilateral trade issues. Later this week, Tai will travel to India for the G20 Trade &amp; Investment Ministers' Meeting. Tai will also meet with business leaders and hold bilateral meetings with government officials. The meetings follow last week’s effort with Taiwan, as USR and Taiwan held an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade in Washington, D.C.- NAFB

USTR Tai visiting Indonesia, India

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks public input on a proposed rule to strengthen Horse Protection Act requirements. 

Announced last week, the proposed changes aim to eliminate horse soring, a cruel and inhumane practice that gives horse owners and trainers an unfair advantage in walking horse competitions. 

Walking horses are known for possessing a naturally high gait, but to be more successful in competitions, some owners and trainers use improper training methods to exaggerate a horse's gait. 

The methods may cause the horse to suffer from physical pain, distress, inflammation, or lameness while walking and moving. 

USDA's Jenny Lester-Moffitt says, "By strengthening the HPA regulations, we can all work to eliminate soring, which will improve the welfare of horses competing in these shows and level the competitive playing field.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can submit comments by searching for the proposal at regulations.gov. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 20, 2023.

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks public input on a proposed rule to strengthen Horse Protection Act requirements. Announced last week, the proposed changes aim to eliminate horse soring, a cruel and inhumane practice that gives horse owners and trainers an unfair advantage in walking horse competitions. Walking horses are known for possessing a naturally high gait, but to be more successful in competitions, some owners and trainers use improper training methods to exaggerate a horse's gait. The methods may cause the horse to suffer from physical pain, distress, inflammation, or lameness while walking and moving. USDA's Jenny Lester-Moffitt says, "By strengthening the HPA regulations, we can all work to eliminate soring, which will improve the welfare of horses competing in these shows and level the competitive playing field.”&nbsp;&nbsp;You can submit comments by searching for the proposal at regulations.gov. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 20, 2023.- NAFB

USDA proposal to strengthen Horse Protection Act

The U.S. Trade Representative requested a panel formation under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over Mexico’s decision to ban imports of biotech corn used in human consumption. 

“Mexico’s decree runs counter to scientific findings and is in direct violation of USMCA, which negatively impacts American corn growers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag . 

U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the U.S. and Mexico have had a long and productive relationship. 

“It’s our number one market for U.S. corn, and we support this action because it will likely be the quickest way to make sure the positive relationship continues in the future.” 

Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group appreciates U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai for her continued commitment to holding Mexico to its agreements under USMCA. 

“America’s farmers are upholding their obligations by meeting demand while achieving important sustainability goals,” says Duvall. “Mexico must do the same thing.”

The U.S. Trade Representative requested a panel formation under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over Mexico’s decision to ban imports of biotech corn used in human consumption. “Mexico’s decree runs counter to scientific findings and is in direct violation of USMCA, which negatively impacts American corn growers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag . U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the U.S. and Mexico have had a long and productive relationship. “It’s our number one market for U.S. corn, and we support this action because it will likely be the quickest way to make sure the positive relationship continues in the future.” Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group appreciates U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai for her continued commitment to holding Mexico to its agreements under USMCA. “America’s farmers are upholding their obligations by meeting demand while achieving important sustainability goals,” says Duvall. “Mexico must do the same thing.”- NAFB