The latest Weekly Drought Monitor showed similar conditions to last week. 

Above-normal temperatures and mostly-dry weather continued through parts of Texas and into the lower Mississippi Valley, where ongoing drought conditions continued deteriorating. 

Drought intensified in eastern Texas, Louisiana, and south-central Mississippi. 

Increasing short-term drought continued across Arizona, New Mexico, and southwest Colorado. Frequent rounds of heavy rainfall occurred from the Northeast into the Central Mississippi Valley and into southern Missouri and the Upper Midwest. 

The continued wet conditions are improving drought across parts of the Corn Belt and much of the southern and central Midwest. Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois saw continuing improvement, with D1 removal from Ohio and Indiana. 

Farther north, drought continued to intensify across northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. Eastern parts of the High Plains saw continued precipitation and below-normal temperatures. Kansas saw heavy precipitation continue from last week, further improving the east and central regions. 

The latest Weekly Drought Monitor showed similar conditions to last week. Above-normal temperatures and mostly-dry weather continued through parts of Texas and into the lower Mississippi Valley, where ongoing drought conditions continued deteriorating. Drought intensified in eastern Texas, Louisiana, and south-central Mississippi. Increasing short-term drought continued across Arizona, New Mexico, and southwest Colorado. Frequent rounds of heavy rainfall occurred from the Northeast into the Central Mississippi Valley and into southern Missouri and the Upper Midwest. The continued wet conditions are improving drought across parts of the Corn Belt and much of the southern and central Midwest. Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois saw continuing improvement, with D1 removal from Ohio and Indiana. Farther north, drought continued to intensify across northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. Eastern parts of the High Plains saw continued precipitation and below-normal temperatures. Kansas saw heavy precipitation continue from last week, further improving the east and central regions. - NAFB&nbsp;

Weekly Drought Monitor shows a mix of dry weather and recent rainfall

Most cow-calf operations in the U.S. remain relatively small and have fewer than 50 cows. USDA says at the other end of the spectrum, a few very large operations with more than 1,000 cows can be found. 

USDA data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Ag Census indicates that between 1997 and 2017, most cow-calf operations remained small. 

In 2017, 54 percent of farms with beef cows had fewer than 20 animals, down slightly from 1997. 

However, during the two decades, the overall number of cow-calf operations in the U.S. dropped by 19 percent, while the average herd size on the remaining operations grew. 

These changes in farm numbers and herd sizes, while notable, haven’t been as significant as industry shifts in hog and dairy production.&nbsp;&nbsp;The combination of relatively lower cow-calf-specific startup costs and pasture as a primary source of feed has resulted in a variety of operation sizes. &nbsp;

Most cow-calf operations in the U.S. remain relatively small and have fewer than 50 cows. USDA says at the other end of the spectrum, a few very large operations with more than 1,000 cows can be found. USDA data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Ag Census indicates that between 1997 and 2017, most cow-calf operations remained small. In 2017, 54 percent of farms with beef cows had fewer than 20 animals, down slightly from 1997. However, during the two decades, the overall number of cow-calf operations in the U.S. dropped by 19 percent, while the average herd size on the remaining operations grew. These changes in farm numbers and herd sizes, while notable, haven’t been as significant as industry shifts in hog and dairy production.&nbsp;&nbsp;The combination of relatively lower cow-calf-specific startup costs and pasture as a primary source of feed has resulted in a variety of operation sizes. &nbsp;- NAFB

Most cow-calf operations remain small

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States is establishing a dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. 

The U.S. is challenging Mexico’s measures on biotech corn. Mexico set rules in place during a decree in February that banned the use of biotech corn in tortillas or dough. 

The Mexican government also instructed its agencies to gradually substitute – i.e., ban – the use of biotech corn in all products for human consumption and for animal feed. 

Mexico’s measures aren’t based on science and undermine the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA. “The United States has used the tools provided by the USMCA in attempting to resolve concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology measures,” says Tai. 

“We’re taking the next step in enforcing Mexico’s obligations under the agreement.” She also says Mexico’s approach to biotechnology isn’t based on science and runs counter to decades worth of evidence clearly demonstrating its safety.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States is establishing a dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The U.S. is challenging Mexico’s measures on biotech corn. Mexico set rules in place during a decree in February that banned the use of biotech corn in tortillas or dough. The Mexican government also instructed its agencies to gradually substitute – i.e., ban – the use of biotech corn in all products for human consumption and for animal feed. Mexico’s measures aren’t based on science and undermine the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA. “The United States has used the tools provided by the USMCA in attempting to resolve concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology measures,” says Tai. “We’re taking the next step in enforcing Mexico’s obligations under the agreement.” She also says Mexico’s approach to biotechnology isn’t based on science and runs counter to decades worth of evidence clearly demonstrating its safety.- NAFB

U.S. establishes dispute panel on Mexico’s biotech measures

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act to bring clarity and to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef products. 

“Consumers don’t know where their beef comes from,” Johnson says. 

“It could be South Dakota, Brazil, or Canada. U.S. producers raise better beef, and they’re not getting credit for it.” 

The act will direct the U.S. Trade Representative and Ag Secretary to work together to determine a process of reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. 

It also directs the U.S. Trade Rep to consult with the Canadian and Mexican governments to resolve the outstanding MCOOL trade disputes the two countries have open against the U.S. “This bill is a step in the right direction to get accurate labels back on these products to increase consumer confidence in American-made and grown products,” Johnson adds.

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act to bring clarity and to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef products. “Consumers don’t know where their beef comes from,” Johnson says. “It could be South Dakota, Brazil, or Canada. U.S. producers raise better beef, and they’re not getting credit for it.” The act will direct the U.S. Trade Representative and Ag Secretary to work together to determine a process of reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. It also directs the U.S. Trade Rep to consult with the Canadian and Mexican governments to resolve the outstanding MCOOL trade disputes the two countries have open against the U.S. “This bill is a step in the right direction to get accurate labels back on these products to increase consumer confidence in American-made and grown products,” Johnson adds.- NAFB

Johnson introduces bill to reinstate MCOOL

Forever Feed Technologies announced a multimillion-dollar investment from a renowned group of dairy and agricultural leaders to develop sustainable automated indoor-growing feed mills. 

The climate-controlled technology will greatly reduce water, land usage, and methane emissions in helping the industry reach its goal of being “climate neutral by 2050. 

The new investment funds will go to building the largest and most reliably controlled environmental mills, capable of feeding thousands of animals with fresh high-quality feed year-round. 

In turn, that helps producers to responsibly expand their operations to meet growing demands. Steve Lindsley, Forever Feed Technologies CEO, says, “We’re pleased to have assembled some of the most respected dairy and agricultural leaders in the country to participate in our funding round. 

Forever Feed is committed to building world class water-saving technology that will allow our customers to sustainably grow cattle feed 365 days a year anywhere in the world.” Information is available at foreverfeed.tech.

Forever Feed Technologies announced a multimillion-dollar investment from a renowned group of dairy and agricultural leaders to develop sustainable automated indoor-growing feed mills. The climate-controlled technology will greatly reduce water, land usage, and methane emissions in helping the industry reach its goal of being “climate neutral by 2050. The new investment funds will go to building the largest and most reliably controlled environmental mills, capable of feeding thousands of animals with fresh high-quality feed year-round. In turn, that helps producers to responsibly expand their operations to meet growing demands. Steve Lindsley, Forever Feed Technologies CEO, says, “We’re pleased to have assembled some of the most respected dairy and agricultural leaders in the country to participate in our funding round. Forever Feed is committed to building world class water-saving technology that will allow our customers to sustainably grow cattle feed 365 days a year anywhere in the world.” Information is available at foreverfeed.tech.- NAFB

Investments to growing animal feed indoors

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office welcomed a report from the World Trade Organization calling U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs justified for security reasons. 

The WTO report recognized that U.S. Section 232 actions on steel and aluminum are security measures, and that China illegally retaliated with sham "safeguard" tariffs. 

The panel rejected China's argument that the U.S. Section 232 actions are safeguard measures that may be "rebalanced" under WTO rules. 

However, officials from China called on the U.S. to lift the tariffs imposed on Chinese products following the report. China's commerce ministry claims the root cause lies in "the unilateralist and protectionist" nature of the United States. 

China maintains that its actions "are a legitimate move to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests." Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019.

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office welcomed a report from the World Trade Organization calling U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs justified for security reasons. The WTO report recognized that U.S. Section 232 actions on steel and aluminum are security measures, and that China illegally retaliated with sham "safeguard" tariffs. The panel rejected China's argument that the U.S. Section 232 actions are safeguard measures that may be "rebalanced" under WTO rules. However, officials from China called on the U.S. to lift the tariffs imposed on Chinese products following the report. China's commerce ministry claims the root cause lies in "the unilateralist and protectionist" nature of the United States. China maintains that its actions "are a legitimate move to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests." Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019.- NAFB

US welcomes WTO report on China trade retaliations

Fertilizer prices have continued their more than year-long decline through the first two weeks of August 2023. 

The University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY website shows that on a per pound of nitrogen basis, urea and liquid nitrogen fertilizers have historically been priced at a premium of 35 to 40 percent above anhydrous ammonia. 

However, the premium narrowed in 2022 as the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted global fertilizer markets. 

The premium on liquid, relative to anhydrous, has returned to more historical levels while the gap has continued to narrow between urea and anhydrous prices. This is attributed to continued expansion in global production capacity combined with lower demand prospects. 

The continued decline in fertilizer prices improves return and income prospects as we look ahead to soon-to-be-released crop budgets for 2024. If the low premium on urea relative to anhydrous extends into the coming months, it may make urea a more attractive nitrogen option for farmers in 2024.

Fertilizer prices have continued their more than year-long decline through the first two weeks of August 2023. The University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY website shows that on a per pound of nitrogen basis, urea and liquid nitrogen fertilizers have historically been priced at a premium of 35 to 40 percent above anhydrous ammonia. However, the premium narrowed in 2022 as the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted global fertilizer markets. The premium on liquid, relative to anhydrous, has returned to more historical levels while the gap has continued to narrow between urea and anhydrous prices. This is attributed to continued expansion in global production capacity combined with lower demand prospects. The continued decline in fertilizer prices improves return and income prospects as we look ahead to soon-to-be-released crop budgets for 2024. If the low premium on urea relative to anhydrous extends into the coming months, it may make urea a more attractive nitrogen option for farmers in 2024.- NAFB

Fertilizer prices continue decline

Farm Credit Association American AgCredit, rural banking partner CoBank, and The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, also known as Farmer Mac, are donating $40,000 to Maui Food Bank to help aid during the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Hawaii. 

AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, “When natural disasters impact the communities in which we live and work, we stand ready to support.” 

CoBank’s Brenda Frank adds, “The contribution to the Maui Food Bank is intended to address the immediate needs and reduce suffering of those impacted by the wildfires in Maui.” 

Farm Credit has had a presence in Hawaii for over 50 years. The association has been a strong provider of financial support to Hawaiian farmers and ranchers. 

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says he intends to ensure people in the state have "everything they need" to recover. Biden plans to visit the area Monday. More than 100 deaths were reported, with 1,300 people still missing following the wildfires.

Farm Credit Association American AgCredit, rural banking partner CoBank, and The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, also known as Farmer Mac, are donating $40,000 to Maui Food Bank to help aid during the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Hawaii. AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, “When natural disasters impact the communities in which we live and work, we stand ready to support.” CoBank’s Brenda Frank adds, “The contribution to the Maui Food Bank is intended to address the immediate needs and reduce suffering of those impacted by the wildfires in Maui.” Farm Credit has had a presence in Hawaii for over 50 years. The association has been a strong provider of financial support to Hawaiian farmers and ranchers. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says he intends to ensure people in the state have "everything they need" to recover. Biden plans to visit the area Monday. More than 100 deaths were reported, with 1,300 people still missing following the wildfires.- NAFB

Ag lenders donate to Hawaii relief efforts

House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says, "We're probably going to need an extension," referring to the timing of the 2023 Farm Bill. 

At a listening session in Missouri this week, the Pennsylvania Republican acknowledged that "the clock is ticking," with the current farm bill set to expire at the end of the fiscal year, September 30. 

The event is one of many held by the committee that Thompson calls a "perpetual barnstorming tour" across rural America. 

The House Agriculture Committee is expected to release a draft version of the 2023 Farm Bill, possibly by the end of the month, according to Thompson. 

The chairman says, "There's a lot of competition" for time on the House floor next month, with appropriations bills still needing attention, as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, any continuing resolution would likely have a farm-bill extension included. Thompson adds, "I hope it's a very short extension," if one is needed.

House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says, "We're probably going to need an extension," referring to the timing of the 2023 Farm Bill. At a listening session in Missouri this week, the Pennsylvania Republican acknowledged that "the clock is ticking," with the current farm bill set to expire at the end of the fiscal year, September 30. The event is one of many held by the committee that Thompson calls a "perpetual barnstorming tour" across rural America. The House Agriculture Committee is expected to release a draft version of the 2023 Farm Bill, possibly by the end of the month, according to Thompson. The chairman says, "There's a lot of competition" for time on the House floor next month, with appropriations bills still needing attention, as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, any continuing resolution would likely have a farm-bill extension included. Thompson adds, "I hope it's a very short extension," if one is needed.- NAFB

Thompson: Farm Bill extension likely

USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency authorized flexibilities for disaster assistance programs and crop insurance to aid Northeast farmers impacted by flooding this year. 

USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “The production and physical losses to flooding have devastated farmers and ranchers in the Northeast.” 

Bonnie visited the region this week, announcing that “USDA is committed to assisting these producers in their ongoing recovery efforts.” 

FSA has authorized policy exceptions in all flood-impacted counties in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The flexibilities apply to Farm Storage Facility Loans, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, and other programs and efforts. 

Additionally, Producers experiencing financial hardships and finding themselves behind on their FSA Marketing Assistance Loan repayment should contact their USDA Service Center to discuss repayment concerns with FSA staff.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency authorized flexibilities for disaster assistance programs and crop insurance to aid Northeast farmers impacted by flooding this year. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “The production and physical losses to flooding have devastated farmers and ranchers in the Northeast.” Bonnie visited the region this week, announcing that “USDA is committed to assisting these producers in their ongoing recovery efforts.” FSA has authorized policy exceptions in all flood-impacted counties in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The flexibilities apply to Farm Storage Facility Loans, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, and other programs and efforts. Additionally, Producers experiencing financial hardships and finding themselves behind on their FSA Marketing Assistance Loan repayment should contact their USDA Service Center to discuss repayment concerns with FSA staff.- NAFB

USDA offers disaster program flexibilities for flood-impacted producers

U.S. consumers remain interested in plant-based meat alternatives, but higher prices have led many prospective return consumers to taper off their purchases. 

Plant-based meats are often several dollars a pound higher than equivalent meat and poultry products. 

Beyond cost, lingering negative perceptions surrounding taste, value and versatility are also obstacles the category has yet to overcome. 

According to a new report from CoBank, the market for plant-based meats has likely reached a tipping point as the initial period of exceptional sales growth appears to be over. 

Plant-based meat sales peaked in 2020 when consumers had more discretionary income and were curious about broadening their food spend in the wake of pandemic-era food shortages. 

But fewer than half of Americans who tried the products at the time repeated their purchase. Sales of meat alternatives have fallen steadily since 2021 and more sharply over the last year. Volume sales dropped 20.9 percent for the 52-week period ending July 2, 2023.

U.S. consumers remain interested in plant-based meat alternatives, but higher prices have led many prospective return consumers to taper off their purchases. Plant-based meats are often several dollars a pound higher than equivalent meat and poultry products. Beyond cost, lingering negative perceptions surrounding taste, value and versatility are also obstacles the category has yet to overcome. According to a new report from CoBank, the market for plant-based meats has likely reached a tipping point as the initial period of exceptional sales growth appears to be over. Plant-based meat sales peaked in 2020 when consumers had more discretionary income and were curious about broadening their food spend in the wake of pandemic-era food shortages. But fewer than half of Americans who tried the products at the time repeated their purchase. Sales of meat alternatives have fallen steadily since 2021 and more sharply over the last year. Volume sales dropped 20.9 percent for the 52-week period ending July 2, 2023.- NAFB

Plant-Based meat alternatives sales declining

A series of online training modules is now freely available to farmers, interested in designing on-farm systems to remove phosphorus from field runoff or subsurface drainage. 

Available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://fargo.nserl.purdue.edu/p-trap-training/?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Internet</a>, the modules comprise seven narrated videos, starting with a basic overview of the need for phosphorus removal systems, followed by how to design, build and install them, as well as how to properly dispose of or recycle the absorbent materials used to help capture the nutrient in drainage water and runoff.

Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for optimal plant growth, health and yield.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, phosphorus that leaves agricultural fields in runoff or drainage water can accumulate in bodies of surface water, like rivers and lakes. 

Management practices and engineered systems that prevent phosphorus loss are vital to maintaining environmental quality. The modules can help users navigate their way through the process, as well as provide “lessons learned” from the field.

A series of online training modules is now freely available to farmers, interested in designing on-farm systems to remove phosphorus from field runoff or subsurface drainage. Available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://fargo.nserl.purdue.edu/p-trap-training/?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Internet</a>, the modules comprise seven narrated videos, starting with a basic overview of the need for phosphorus removal systems, followed by how to design, build and install them, as well as how to properly dispose of or recycle the absorbent materials used to help capture the nutrient in drainage water and runoff. Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for optimal plant growth, health and yield.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, phosphorus that leaves agricultural fields in runoff or drainage water can accumulate in bodies of surface water, like rivers and lakes. Management practices and engineered systems that prevent phosphorus loss are vital to maintaining environmental quality. The modules can help users navigate their way through the process, as well as provide “lessons learned” from the field.- NAFB

Training available to help producers manage phosphorus losses

The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. 

Established in 2007, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing meat science and animal agriculture careers. 

Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. 

Scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work but also the entire industry. Graduate students must apply online by submitting a cover letter, goals and experience, a short essay, statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant's graduate research and three letters of recommendation by September 22, 2023. 

The 2023 scholarship recipients will be recognized at CattleCon 2024. The scholarship honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker known for his extraordinary vision. For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org/">www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org</a>.

The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. Established in 2007, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing meat science and animal agriculture careers. Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. Scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work but also the entire industry. Graduate students must apply online by submitting a cover letter, goals and experience, a short essay, statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant's graduate research and three letters of recommendation by September 22, 2023. The 2023 scholarship recipients will be recognized at CattleCon 2024. The scholarship honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker known for his extraordinary vision. For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org/">www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org</a>.- NAFB

Graduate students encouraged to apply for Beef Industry Scholarships

U.S. consumers spent an average of 11.3 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2022, a level not observed since the 1980s, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. 

Disposable personal income is the amount of money consumers have left to spend or save after paying taxes. 

Consumers spent 5.62 percent of their incomes on food at supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse club stores, supercenters, and other retailers in 2022 and 5.64 percent on food at restaurants, fast-food establishments, schools, and other places offering food away from home. 

In 2022, the share spent on total food had the sharpest annual increase, 12.7 percent. This followed an 8.2-percent decline, the sharpest annual drop in total food spending since 1967, during the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. 

The recent volatility in spending was driven by consumers’ sudden drop in eating out at the beginning of the pandemic followed by a return to food-away-from-home purchases as pandemic-related restrictions and concerns eased.

U.S. consumers spent an average of 11.3 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2022, a level not observed since the 1980s, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Disposable personal income is the amount of money consumers have left to spend or save after paying taxes. Consumers spent 5.62 percent of their incomes on food at supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse club stores, supercenters, and other retailers in 2022 and 5.64 percent on food at restaurants, fast-food establishments, schools, and other places offering food away from home. In 2022, the share spent on total food had the sharpest annual increase, 12.7 percent. This followed an 8.2-percent decline, the sharpest annual drop in total food spending since 1967, during the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The recent volatility in spending was driven by consumers’ sudden drop in eating out at the beginning of the pandemic followed by a return to food-away-from-home purchases as pandemic-related restrictions and concerns eased.- NAFB

Income spent on food increased 13% in 2022

Self-propelled combine sales continued to increase in the U.S. while total farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. and Canada declined in July. 

The latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says overall unit sales of U.S. combines rose almost 11 percent compared to July 2022, while tractor sales dropped five percent compared to July of last year. The tractor decline was driven largely by the softness in the smaller horsepower segment. Canadian tractors saw slower sales in July with a decline of almost 20 percent, with combines dropping 16 percent year-over-year for the month of July. 

“We’re still seeing moderate growth in the traditional ag market that has shown a steady rise all year in North America,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. So far this year, tractors are down more than nine percent in the U.S., while combines are up 41 percent.

Self-propelled combine sales continued to increase in the U.S. while total farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. and Canada declined in July. The latest data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says overall unit sales of U.S. combines rose almost 11 percent compared to July 2022, while tractor sales dropped five percent compared to July of last year. The tractor decline was driven largely by the softness in the smaller horsepower segment. Canadian tractors saw slower sales in July with a decline of almost 20 percent, with combines dropping 16 percent year-over-year for the month of July. “We’re still seeing moderate growth in the traditional ag market that has shown a steady rise all year in North America,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. So far this year, tractors are down more than nine percent in the U.S., while combines are up 41 percent.

Tractor sales growth softens in U.S. and Canada

Expect higher orange juice prices in the months ahead after a bacterial disease and harsh weather ravaged this season’s crops. Florida annually produces more than 90 percent of the country’s orange juice supplies. 

Last year, Florida was hit by Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Nicole, and freezing conditions in succession. The Guardian says producers also had to battle citrus greening disease. It’s spread by an invasive insect and can’t be cured, so it renders affected fruit unusual. Infected trees typically die within a few years, and that’s forced some producers to give up growing fruit and selling their land. 

Industry expectations say that U.S. production will reach its lowest point in more than 100 years. A trade group says the industry typically does about 244 million boxes of oranges but ended up this year with under 16 million boxes. Up to ten percent of the state’s orange trees were lost in the hurricanes.

Expect higher orange juice prices in the months ahead after a bacterial disease and harsh weather ravaged this season’s crops. Florida annually produces more than 90 percent of the country’s orange juice supplies. Last year, Florida was hit by Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Nicole, and freezing conditions in succession. The Guardian says producers also had to battle citrus greening disease. It’s spread by an invasive insect and can’t be cured, so it renders affected fruit unusual. Infected trees typically die within a few years, and that’s forced some producers to give up growing fruit and selling their land. Industry expectations say that U.S. production will reach its lowest point in more than 100 years. A trade group says the industry typically does about 244 million boxes of oranges but ended up this year with under 16 million boxes. Up to ten percent of the state’s orange trees were lost in the hurricanes.

Orange juice prices to surge higher

Agricultural credit conditions in the Kansas City Federal Reserve’s Tenth District moderated in the second quarter of 2023, and farmland values continued to increase. Following multiple years of improvement, farm income softened. 

Borrower liquidity retracted somewhat alongside continued cost pressures and lower prices for most agricultural commodities compared to last year. Despite some moderation, the District’s farm economy was steady in the second quarter. Drought early in the quarter followed by heavy rains contributed to difficulty with winter wheat harvest and spring planting. Some agricultural bankers commented that decreased grain prices, weather volatility, and stable production expenses could reduce borrowers liquidity that had been very strong during the renewable season. 

In the Chicago Federal Reserve’s District, farmland values rose in the second quarter, but it was the first single-digit gain since 2021. The Dallas Fed noted most bankers responded to the second-quarter survey reported overall better conditions in the district.

Agricultural credit conditions in the Kansas City Federal Reserve’s Tenth District moderated in the second quarter of 2023, and farmland values continued to increase. Following multiple years of improvement, farm income softened. Borrower liquidity retracted somewhat alongside continued cost pressures and lower prices for most agricultural commodities compared to last year. Despite some moderation, the District’s farm economy was steady in the second quarter. Drought early in the quarter followed by heavy rains contributed to difficulty with winter wheat harvest and spring planting. Some agricultural bankers commented that decreased grain prices, weather volatility, and stable production expenses could reduce borrowers liquidity that had been very strong during the renewable season. In the Chicago Federal Reserve’s District, farmland values rose in the second quarter, but it was the first single-digit gain since 2021. The Dallas Fed noted most bankers responded to the second-quarter survey reported overall better conditions in the district.

Ag credit conditions moderate

The Soil Health Institute and the National Association of Conservation Districts announced the results of a nationwide study showing how improving soil health can improve a farmer’s profitability. 

The study shows farmers can build resilience across a diversity of soil types, geographies, and cropping systems. 

Among the key findings across 29 farms, Soil Health Management Systems increased net farm income by an average of $65 per acre. 

On average, when implementing soil health systems, it costs producers $14 an acre less to grow corn, $7 an acre less to grow soybeans, and $16 an acre less to grow all other crops. 

Yield increases were reported for 42 percent of farms growing corn, 32 percent of farms growing soybeans, and 35 percent of farms growing other crops. Farmers reported additional benefits like decreased erosion and soil compaction, earlier access to fields in wet years, and increased resilience to extreme weather events.

The Soil Health Institute and the National Association of Conservation Districts announced the results of a nationwide study showing how improving soil health can improve a farmer’s profitability. The study shows farmers can build resilience across a diversity of soil types, geographies, and cropping systems. Among the key findings across 29 farms, Soil Health Management Systems increased net farm income by an average of $65 per acre. On average, when implementing soil health systems, it costs producers $14 an acre less to grow corn, $7 an acre less to grow soybeans, and $16 an acre less to grow all other crops. Yield increases were reported for 42 percent of farms growing corn, 32 percent of farms growing soybeans, and 35 percent of farms growing other crops. Farmers reported additional benefits like decreased erosion and soil compaction, earlier access to fields in wet years, and increased resilience to extreme weather events.- NAFB

Study shows positive economic impact of soil health

The latest Purdue University Consumer Food Insights Report shows consumers who are most satisfied with their food consumption also spend the lowest share of their incomes on food. 

The July 2023 survey-based report from Purdue’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support for agriculture and food policies, and trust in their information sources. 

Three of every four Americans who responded say their food satisfaction is thriving.&nbsp;&nbsp;The researchers found that consumers have yet to embrace meat alternatives as better than beef from cattle. Other results include household food-at-home spending is up 4.6 percent from July 2022, reaching its highest level yet. 

Consumers’ predictions for food inflation over the next 12 months have dropped to 3.7 percent, the lowest level recorded by the Purdue University survey. Food insecurity is a percentage point down from the previous month but higher than the 2022 average.

The latest Purdue University Consumer Food Insights Report shows consumers who are most satisfied with their food consumption also spend the lowest share of their incomes on food. The July 2023 survey-based report from Purdue’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support for agriculture and food policies, and trust in their information sources. Three of every four Americans who responded say their food satisfaction is thriving.&nbsp;&nbsp;The researchers found that consumers have yet to embrace meat alternatives as better than beef from cattle. Other results include household food-at-home spending is up 4.6 percent from July 2022, reaching its highest level yet. Consumers’ predictions for food inflation over the next 12 months have dropped to 3.7 percent, the lowest level recorded by the Purdue University survey. Food insecurity is a percentage point down from the previous month but higher than the 2022 average.- NAFB

Most Americans are “Food Satisfied”

The U.S. Senate has established a Veterinary Medicine Caucus for the first time ever. 

The caucus will focus on increasing awareness toward veterinary-related matters in Congress, educating lawmakers and their staffs about the challenges facing the profession, and advancing the legislation that benefits the veterinary community. 

The bipartisan caucus will be led by Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). 

In past years, the House Veterinary Medicine Caucus led the way in introducing key legislation that impacts veterinary medicine, such as the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. 

The Senate caucus will extend these efforts to their side of the chamber while also helping secure important funding for veterinary-related federal programs. 

“The AVMA and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges are dedicated to working with the caucus on raising awareness of the essential services veterinarians provide and the challenges they currently face,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA president.

The U.S. Senate has established a Veterinary Medicine Caucus for the first time ever. The caucus will focus on increasing awareness toward veterinary-related matters in Congress, educating lawmakers and their staffs about the challenges facing the profession, and advancing the legislation that benefits the veterinary community. The bipartisan caucus will be led by Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). In past years, the House Veterinary Medicine Caucus led the way in introducing key legislation that impacts veterinary medicine, such as the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The Senate caucus will extend these efforts to their side of the chamber while also helping secure important funding for veterinary-related federal programs. “The AVMA and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges are dedicated to working with the caucus on raising awareness of the essential services veterinarians provide and the challenges they currently face,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA president.- NAFB

Groups applaud first Senate Veterinary Medicine Caucus

A few consecutive dry weeks are giving crops in Iowa varying degrees of drought stress. 

An Iowa State University Extension expert says there hasn’t been much measurable rainfall for as many as three weeks in many areas. 

Prior to that dry spell, Iowa had been getting just enough rain at times to get by. 

Much of the dry weather came when corn and soybeans entered their reproductive stages, which is when those crops need rain the most. A corn or soybean crop typically needs 20 inches of moisture from rainfall and subsoil moisture to produce a crop. 

However, ISU expert Gentry Sorenson told Successful Farming, “We had a couple of counties that didn’t get any substantial soil moisture recharge through this year. ” 

Over 17 percent of Iowa’s acres are abnormally dry while 52 percent of the state is in D1 moderate drought. D2 severe drought is impacting 26 percent of the state.

A few consecutive dry weeks are giving crops in Iowa varying degrees of drought stress. An Iowa State University Extension expert says there hasn’t been much measurable rainfall for as many as three weeks in many areas. Prior to that dry spell, Iowa had been getting just enough rain at times to get by. Much of the dry weather came when corn and soybeans entered their reproductive stages, which is when those crops need rain the most. A corn or soybean crop typically needs 20 inches of moisture from rainfall and subsoil moisture to produce a crop. However, ISU expert Gentry Sorenson told Successful Farming, “We had a couple of counties that didn’t get any substantial soil moisture recharge through this year. ” Over 17 percent of Iowa’s acres are abnormally dry while 52 percent of the state is in D1 moderate drought. D2 severe drought is impacting 26 percent of the state.- NAFB

Drought covers 100% of Iowa

China imported more agricultural products in the first six months of 2023 than it did during the same period in 2022 as soybean prices surged higher. 

The value of those agricultural imports in the first half of this year rose over eight percent compared with the same time in 2022. 

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service report says exports overall were relatively flat. 

Soybean imports jumped 11 percent to a value of $30 billion, while volume rose 14 percent to 52.6 million metric tons. Grain import purchases were up seven percent year-over-year to $45.4 billion as volume gained 4.% percent to 83.4 million metric tons. 

The agency says Edible vegetable oils saw the biggest percentage increase as the value of those imports rose 139 percent to $5.3 billion, and volume jumped 79 percent higher to 4.5 million metric tons. Chinese imports of U.S. soybeans. gained 12 percent to almost 20 million metric tons.

China imported more agricultural products in the first six months of 2023 than it did during the same period in 2022 as soybean prices surged higher. The value of those agricultural imports in the first half of this year rose over eight percent compared with the same time in 2022. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service report says exports overall were relatively flat. Soybean imports jumped 11 percent to a value of $30 billion, while volume rose 14 percent to 52.6 million metric tons. Grain import purchases were up seven percent year-over-year to $45.4 billion as volume gained 4.% percent to 83.4 million metric tons. The agency says Edible vegetable oils saw the biggest percentage increase as the value of those imports rose 139 percent to $5.3 billion, and volume jumped 79 percent higher to 4.5 million metric tons. Chinese imports of U.S. soybeans. gained 12 percent to almost 20 million metric tons.- NAFB

China’s ag imports rise so far in 2023

A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress looks to expand access to dairy products for all program recipients. 

The legislation would amend the Healthy Milk Fluids Incentive program and allow SNAP recipients to get more products like yogurt and cheese. 

The bill, introduced by Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy, is intended to boost dairy intake and support U.S. dairy farmers. 

Ninety percent of Americans don’t get enough dairy in their diet. Food Navigator says the bill is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the National Grocers Association. The bill’s title says it aims to “amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to establish a dairy nutrition incentive program.” 

The IDFA says the new Dairy Incentives Program Act will enhance the HFMI program’s scope by adding whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. Michael Dykes of IDFA says milk, cheese, and yogurt are “nutritional powerhouses.”

A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress looks to expand access to dairy products for all program recipients. The legislation would amend the Healthy Milk Fluids Incentive program and allow SNAP recipients to get more products like yogurt and cheese. The bill, introduced by Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy, is intended to boost dairy intake and support U.S. dairy farmers. Ninety percent of Americans don’t get enough dairy in their diet. Food Navigator says the bill is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the National Grocers Association. The bill’s title says it aims to “amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to establish a dairy nutrition incentive program.” The IDFA says the new Dairy Incentives Program Act will enhance the HFMI program’s scope by adding whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. Michael Dykes of IDFA says milk, cheese, and yogurt are “nutritional powerhouses.”- NAFB

Bill would expand access to dairy products in SNAP

Smithfield Foods will close 35 hog farm operations in Missouri, according to a state-required workforce adjustment notification. 

The notice indicated 92 employees would be affected by the closures, slated for August. 

Murphy Brown LLC, a division of Smithfield Foods, is reducing hog farming operations in Missouri and "must reduce its workforce accordingly," a company spokesperson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. 

Employees impacted by the closures were offered the chance to relocate to other hog-producing facilities operated by the company. Smithfield Foods is the world's largest pork processor and is owned by Hong Kong's WH Group. The announcement follows Tyson Foods' plans to close four chicken processing plants across the United States. 

Tyson plans to close operations next year at four facilities located in Arkansas, Indiana and Missouri. The U.S. meat industry is facing demand struggles in both pork and poultry thanks to increased prices and inflation, amid higher feed and labor costs.

Smithfield Foods will close 35 hog farm operations in Missouri, according to a state-required workforce adjustment notification. The notice indicated 92 employees would be affected by the closures, slated for August. Murphy Brown LLC, a division of Smithfield Foods, is reducing hog farming operations in Missouri and "must reduce its workforce accordingly," a company spokesperson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Employees impacted by the closures were offered the chance to relocate to other hog-producing facilities operated by the company. Smithfield Foods is the world's largest pork processor and is owned by Hong Kong's WH Group. The announcement follows Tyson Foods' plans to close four chicken processing plants across the United States. Tyson plans to close operations next year at four facilities located in Arkansas, Indiana and Missouri. The U.S. meat industry is facing demand struggles in both pork and poultry thanks to increased prices and inflation, amid higher feed and labor costs.- NAFB

Smithfield Foods closing 35 Missouri hog farms

Ethanol groups welcome efforts by Nebraska and Iowa prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to create regulations to allow for year-round sales of E15 in at least eight Midwest states. 

Earlier this year, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states. 

EPA proposed a rule in March to make regulatory changes to implement year-round sales of E15 in those states beginning in the summer of 2024.

EPA issued temporary emergency waivers to allow continued E15 sales this summer and last summer, but the industry seeks a long-term solution. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "We're hopeful that the action taken by Iowa and Nebraska today will help break the logjam and cause EPA to complete the process as soon as possible." 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds, “EPA needs to act now so that fuel retailers have the regulatory clarity they need to make investments and expand access to E15.”

Ethanol groups welcome efforts by Nebraska and Iowa prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to create regulations to allow for year-round sales of E15 in at least eight Midwest states. Earlier this year, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states. EPA proposed a rule in March to make regulatory changes to implement year-round sales of E15 in those states beginning in the summer of 2024.EPA issued temporary emergency waivers to allow continued E15 sales this summer and last summer, but the industry seeks a long-term solution. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "We're hopeful that the action taken by Iowa and Nebraska today will help break the logjam and cause EPA to complete the process as soon as possible." Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds, “EPA needs to act now so that fuel retailers have the regulatory clarity they need to make investments and expand access to E15.”- NAFB