In a letter to the National Farmers Union, the Environmental Protection Agency affirmed that the Clean Air Act cannot be used as a basis to restrict independent repair of farm equipment. 

In their opposition to Right to Repair legislation, equipment manufacturers and dealers have invoked EPA regulations and the Clean Air Act – specifically related to tampering with emissions control systems – as justification for their need to restrict repair. 

NFU President Rob Larew says, “EPA confirmed what farmers have known all along – equipment manufacturers have been using bad faith justifications to restrict independent repair.” 

EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated that “Like NFU and its members, EPA believes barriers to the proper repair and maintenance of nonroad equipment is harmful to the environment.” 

NFU strongly supports a federal legislative solution that guarantees farmers and independent mechanics the Right to Repair farm equipment on fair and reasonable terms and costs.

In a letter to the National Farmers Union, the Environmental Protection Agency affirmed that the Clean Air Act cannot be used as a basis to restrict independent repair of farm equipment. In their opposition to Right to Repair legislation, equipment manufacturers and dealers have invoked EPA regulations and the Clean Air Act – specifically related to tampering with emissions control systems – as justification for their need to restrict repair. NFU President Rob Larew says, “EPA confirmed what farmers have known all along – equipment manufacturers have been using bad faith justifications to restrict independent repair.” EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated that “Like NFU and its members, EPA believes barriers to the proper repair and maintenance of nonroad equipment is harmful to the environment.” NFU strongly supports a federal legislative solution that guarantees farmers and independent mechanics the Right to Repair farm equipment on fair and reasonable terms and costs.- NAFB

EPA affirms Farmers’ Right to Repair

Tyson Foods Monday announced the planned closure of four chicken processing facilities in the United States. 

Tyson Foods will close facilities in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Corydon, Indiana, Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri. 

The company will shift production to other facilities and cease operations at the impacted locations in the first half of fiscal year 2024. 

Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO, says, "While current market dynamics remain challenging, Tyson Foods is fully committed to our vision of delivering sustainable, top-line growth and margin improvement." Tyson made the announcement as part of its third-quarter fiscal year 2023 results. 

The company reported a 7.5 percent, or $324 million, operating loss on chicken operations, and a 5.6 percent loss in pork. Tyson Foods will evaluate the financial statement impact of the closures for charges related to contract terminations, impairments, accelerated depreciation, severance and retention and estimates total charges of $300 to $400 million.

Tyson Foods Monday announced the planned closure of four chicken processing facilities in the United States. Tyson Foods will close facilities in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Corydon, Indiana, Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri. The company will shift production to other facilities and cease operations at the impacted locations in the first half of fiscal year 2024. Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO, says, "While current market dynamics remain challenging, Tyson Foods is fully committed to our vision of delivering sustainable, top-line growth and margin improvement." Tyson made the announcement as part of its third-quarter fiscal year 2023 results. The company reported a 7.5 percent, or $324 million, operating loss on chicken operations, and a 5.6 percent loss in pork. Tyson Foods will evaluate the financial statement impact of the closures for charges related to contract terminations, impairments, accelerated depreciation, severance and retention and estimates total charges of $300 to $400 million.- NAFB

Tyson foods to close four chicken facilities

The National FFA Organization Monday announced a record-high student membership of 945,988, an increase of 11 percent from last year. 

In addition, the number of FFA chapters continues to grow — increasing by 168 this year, resulting in 9,163 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “It’s exciting to see our numbers grow and know we continue to influence the next generation of leaders,” adding, “We’re excited to see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.” 

The top five membership states are Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois and North Carolina.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, the organization has more than 150,000 Latino members, more than 50,000 Black members, more than 9,000 Asian members, more than 14,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members, and more than 2,400 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members. More than 43 percent of the membership is female, and 49.8 percent is male.

The National FFA Organization Monday announced a record-high student membership of 945,988, an increase of 11 percent from last year. In addition, the number of FFA chapters continues to grow — increasing by 168 this year, resulting in 9,163 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “It’s exciting to see our numbers grow and know we continue to influence the next generation of leaders,” adding, “We’re excited to see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.” The top five membership states are Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois and North Carolina.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, the organization has more than 150,000 Latino members, more than 50,000 Black members, more than 9,000 Asian members, more than 14,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members, and more than 2,400 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members. More than 43 percent of the membership is female, and 49.8 percent is male.- NAFB

National FFA membership reaches all-time high

The nation's average price of gasoline rose 7.8 cents last week to $3.79 per gallon, and diesel jumped 14.9 cents to $4.14 per gallon. 

The increases follow the rise in oil prices and pressure from hot weather that impacted refineries. 

However, the pace of increases has started to slow and appears to have peaked over the weekend and is beginning to gently fall, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan. 

The fuel market expert says, “Diesel will likely continue to see upward momentum while gasoline price increases should become more limited.” The price of crude oil has rallied for six straight weeks. 

In recent days, fundamentals have remained solidly in control behind the upward move, as Saudi Arabia continues its severe one million barrel per day production cut, driving prices higher. In addition, government data last week showed the largest weekly decline in U.S. crude oil inventories on record.

The nation's average price of gasoline rose 7.8 cents last week to $3.79 per gallon, and diesel jumped 14.9 cents to $4.14 per gallon. The increases follow the rise in oil prices and pressure from hot weather that impacted refineries. However, the pace of increases has started to slow and appears to have peaked over the weekend and is beginning to gently fall, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan. The fuel market expert says, “Diesel will likely continue to see upward momentum while gasoline price increases should become more limited.” The price of crude oil has rallied for six straight weeks. In recent days, fundamentals have remained solidly in control behind the upward move, as Saudi Arabia continues its severe one million barrel per day production cut, driving prices higher. In addition, government data last week showed the largest weekly decline in U.S. crude oil inventories on record.- NAFB

Gas and diesel prices move higher again

A Japanese delegation recently visited the U.S. to meet with several key policymakers, U.S. Grains Council Staff in Washington, D.C., and visit corn fields and ethanol plants. 

As part of the Council’s ethanol promotion efforts in Japan, this program aimed to promote ethanol direct blending and new uses of ethanol, including sustainable aviation fuel. 

The delegation was able to learn more about U.S. policies and incentives in place related to climate change and ethanol. 

The delegation was led by Akira Amari, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and the House of Representatives in Japan. 

“It was important to make sure that Mr. Amari, an influential policy maker, and a strong biofuel advocate, understands the supply capacity of U.S. corn ethanol to meet the growing demand for direct blending and SAF in Japan,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. “He was impressed by our robust corn production and ethanol supply.”

A Japanese delegation recently visited the U.S. to meet with several key policymakers, U.S. Grains Council Staff in Washington, D.C., and visit corn fields and ethanol plants. As part of the Council’s ethanol promotion efforts in Japan, this program aimed to promote ethanol direct blending and new uses of ethanol, including sustainable aviation fuel. The delegation was able to learn more about U.S. policies and incentives in place related to climate change and ethanol. The delegation was led by Akira Amari, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and the House of Representatives in Japan. “It was important to make sure that Mr. Amari, an influential policy maker, and a strong biofuel advocate, understands the supply capacity of U.S. corn ethanol to meet the growing demand for direct blending and SAF in Japan,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. “He was impressed by our robust corn production and ethanol supply.”- NAFB

USGC host Japanese delegation to show off ethanol benefits

July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 3.3 million acre-feet, 99 percent of the average. 

Runoff was near or above average in all reaches except the Fort Peck reach, which was 68 percent of the average. 

“Soil moisture conditions deteriorated in Montana, North Dakota, and northern South Dakota over the last month and improved across southern South Dakota and into the lower basin,” says John Remus, Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. 

Precipitation was below normal over most of the upper Missouri River basin last month except for small areas in Wyoming and southern South Dakota. The lower basin saw a mix of above-and-below-normal precipitation. 

The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City is 28.5-million-acre feet, 111 percent of average. System storage on August 1 was 56.3-million-acre feet, 0.2-million-acre feet above the base of the Annual Flood Control and Multiple Use zone.

July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 3.3 million acre-feet, 99 percent of the average. Runoff was near or above average in all reaches except the Fort Peck reach, which was 68 percent of the average. “Soil moisture conditions deteriorated in Montana, North Dakota, and northern South Dakota over the last month and improved across southern South Dakota and into the lower basin,” says John Remus, Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Precipitation was below normal over most of the upper Missouri River basin last month except for small areas in Wyoming and southern South Dakota. The lower basin saw a mix of above-and-below-normal precipitation. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City is 28.5-million-acre feet, 111 percent of average. System storage on August 1 was 56.3-million-acre feet, 0.2-million-acre feet above the base of the Annual Flood Control and Multiple Use zone.- NAFB

Drought conditions persist in the Missouri River Basin

KANSAS CITY (AP) —Tyson Foods Inc. is closing four chicken processing plants as it looks to lower costs.

The company said Monday that the plants being closed are located in North Little Rock, Arkansas; Corydon, Indiana; Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri.

Tyson said that it will shift production to other facilities and halt operations at the four plants in the first two quarters of fiscal 2024. The company currently estimates having $300 million to $400 million in total charges, based on a preliminary analysis.

Tyson launched a plan in fiscal 2022 where it targeted $1 billion in productivity savings by the end of fiscal 2024. The company said that it realized more than $700 million of savings in fiscal 2022, which partially offset the impacts of inflationary market conditions. Tyson topped its $1 billion target in the second quarter of fiscal 2023, more than a year ahead of its plan.

In May&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-foods-beef-sales-loss-charges-b5f0e7433aa236d20afa62106f063200">Tyson</a>&nbsp;posted a surprise loss in its second quarter and cut its sales forecast due to the cost of plant closures and layoffs.

Tyson has been trying to cut costs over the past several months. It&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-chicago-arkansas-south-dakota-illinois-9de4f07ef9fb00adddcb3614a5816bc5">closed its corporate offices</a>&nbsp;in Chicago and South Dakota late last year and consolidated its workforce in Arkansas. In March it announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-poultry-close-plants-layoffs-fd57afc3eaac0ba01c9cfde3500b9247">closure of two plants</a>&nbsp;in Arkansas and Virginia in order to better use available capacity at other facilities.

Tyson laid off 15% of its senior leadership and 10% of its corporate workers in April as it faces steep inflation on labor, grain and other inputs.

The company also reported its fiscal third-quarter financial results on Monday. Tyson posted a loss of $417 million, or $1.18 per share, for the period ended July 1. A year earlier it earned $750 million, or $2.07 per share.

The current quarter included a goodwill impairment charge of $448 million.

Removing asset impairment charges and restructuring costs, the Springdale, Arkansas-based company earned 15 cents per share. That's well below the 34 cents per share analysts polled by Zacks Investment Research expected.

Revenue totaled $13.14 billion, down from $13.5 billion a year ago.

Tyson still anticipates fiscal 2023 revenue in a range of $53 billion to $54 billion. Analysts surveyed by FactSet expect revenue of $53.74 billion.

Shares dropped 8% before the market open.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691417744726.png" alt="Tyson plant in Dexter, Missouri-Google image" />
 <figcaption>Tyson plant in Dexter, Missouri-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —Tyson Foods Inc. is closing four chicken processing plants as it looks to lower costs.The company said Monday that the plants being closed are located in North Little Rock, Arkansas; Corydon, Indiana; Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri.Tyson said that it will shift production to other facilities and halt operations at the four plants in the first two quarters of fiscal 2024. The company currently estimates having $300 million to $400 million in total charges, based on a preliminary analysis.Tyson launched a plan in fiscal 2022 where it targeted $1 billion in productivity savings by the end of fiscal 2024. The company said that it realized more than $700 million of savings in fiscal 2022, which partially offset the impacts of inflationary market conditions. Tyson topped its $1 billion target in the second quarter of fiscal 2023, more than a year ahead of its plan.In May&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-foods-beef-sales-loss-charges-b5f0e7433aa236d20afa62106f063200">Tyson</a>&nbsp;posted a surprise loss in its second quarter and cut its sales forecast due to the cost of plant closures and layoffs.Tyson has been trying to cut costs over the past several months. It&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-chicago-arkansas-south-dakota-illinois-9de4f07ef9fb00adddcb3614a5816bc5">closed its corporate offices</a>&nbsp;in Chicago and South Dakota late last year and consolidated its workforce in Arkansas. In March it announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-poultry-close-plants-layoffs-fd57afc3eaac0ba01c9cfde3500b9247">closure of two plants</a>&nbsp;in Arkansas and Virginia in order to better use available capacity at other facilities.Tyson laid off 15% of its senior leadership and 10% of its corporate workers in April as it faces steep inflation on labor, grain and other inputs.The company also reported its fiscal third-quarter financial results on Monday. Tyson posted a loss of $417 million, or $1.18 per share, for the period ended July 1. A year earlier it earned $750 million, or $2.07 per share.The current quarter included a goodwill impairment charge of $448 million.Removing asset impairment charges and restructuring costs, the Springdale, Arkansas-based company earned 15 cents per share. That's well below the 34 cents per share analysts polled by Zacks Investment Research expected.Revenue totaled $13.14 billion, down from $13.5 billion a year ago.Tyson still anticipates fiscal 2023 revenue in a range of $53 billion to $54 billion. Analysts surveyed by FactSet expect revenue of $53.74 billion.Shares dropped 8% before the market open.

Tyson Foods closing 2 chicken processing plants in Missouri

Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would overturn California’s Prop 12. 

Reuters says some of the country’s biggest pork producers who’ve already spent money to comply with the California requirements don’t favor throwing out Prop 12. 

The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act would curb states’ ability to regulate agricultural products sold within their borders. 

The bill was introduced in the Senate by Roger Marshall (R-KS) and the House by Representatives by Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and supported by the National Pork Producers Council. Prop 12 bans sales within California of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose housing conditions fail to meet certain standards. 

Clements Food Group, the fifth-largest pork processor in the country, says it won’t support the EATS Act. Some of the larger producers in the country like Tyson Foods and Smithfield have said publicly that they’ll be complying with the law when it takes effect on January 1.

Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would overturn California’s Prop 12. Reuters says some of the country’s biggest pork producers who’ve already spent money to comply with the California requirements don’t favor throwing out Prop 12. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act would curb states’ ability to regulate agricultural products sold within their borders. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Roger Marshall (R-KS) and the House by Representatives by Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and supported by the National Pork Producers Council. Prop 12 bans sales within California of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose housing conditions fail to meet certain standards. Clements Food Group, the fifth-largest pork processor in the country, says it won’t support the EATS Act. Some of the larger producers in the country like Tyson Foods and Smithfield have said publicly that they’ll be complying with the law when it takes effect on January 1.- NAFB

Large pork producers don’t favor overturning Prop 12

The House Ag Committee Chair says he plans to use the upcoming farm bill to deal with California’s Prop 12 that was upheld by the Supreme Court. 

Roll Call says pork producers across the country have said this will lead to patchwork laws between states that will interfere with commerce. 

At Minnesota’s Farmfest, Glenn “GT” Thompson said the Supreme Court did say in its decision that Congress has the power to address the issues caused by Prop 12. 

However, Congress has chosen not to deal with those issues in the past. Thompson addressed the audience during a farm bill listening session and said the court let it stand because they’re tired of handling Congressional work. 

Thompson didn’t specify if the Ag Committee would write its own legislation or use pending legislation to deal with California’s law. Bills have already been introduced in both congressional chambers that would nullify Prop 12.

The House Ag Committee Chair says he plans to use the upcoming farm bill to deal with California’s Prop 12 that was upheld by the Supreme Court. Roll Call says pork producers across the country have said this will lead to patchwork laws between states that will interfere with commerce. At Minnesota’s Farmfest, Glenn “GT” Thompson said the Supreme Court did say in its decision that Congress has the power to address the issues caused by Prop 12. However, Congress has chosen not to deal with those issues in the past. Thompson addressed the audience during a farm bill listening session and said the court let it stand because they’re tired of handling Congressional work. Thompson didn’t specify if the Ag Committee would write its own legislation or use pending legislation to deal with California’s law. Bills have already been introduced in both congressional chambers that would nullify Prop 12.- NAFB

House farm bill will address California’s Prop 12

Four elected officials from California introduced the “Agricultural Emergency Relief Act” to create a permanent USDA structure that would provide relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters. 

While Congress routinely provides disaster relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes. 

That can cause confusion for farmers and result in unnecessary delays in implementation. Representative Mike Thompson of California was one of the co-sponsors. 

He says, “California and many other states have been hit hard by disasters. It’s clear we need a permanent disaster relief program. This bill will help streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief they deserve.” 

The legislation would formally authorize a program that already has funding from 2022 and 2023 omnibus bills. It will require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment. &nbsp;

Four elected officials from California introduced the “Agricultural Emergency Relief Act” to create a permanent USDA structure that would provide relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters. While Congress routinely provides disaster relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes. That can cause confusion for farmers and result in unnecessary delays in implementation. Representative Mike Thompson of California was one of the co-sponsors. He says, “California and many other states have been hit hard by disasters. It’s clear we need a permanent disaster relief program. This bill will help streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief they deserve.” The legislation would formally authorize a program that already has funding from 2022 and 2023 omnibus bills. It will require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment. &nbsp;- NAFB

Legislation would create a permanent disaster relief program

Energy Information Administration data shows that ethanol output and inventories dropped to three-week lows during the week ending on July 28. 

The biofuel production dropped to an average of 1.06 million barrels a day during the week. 

The EIA report says that’s down from 1.094 million barrels the previous week and the lowest level since July 7. 

In the Midwest, the largest producing region in the country, output dropped to 1.005 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.02 million a week earlier. The agency said that’s also the lowest point in three weeks. 

West Coast production was closer to normal levels of 13,000 barrels a day, down from the previous week’s record total of 25,000 barrels. Production on the Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountain region, and East Coast levels were unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol inventories shrank to 22.86 million barrels a day, down from 23.28 million a week earlier.

Energy Information Administration data shows that ethanol output and inventories dropped to three-week lows during the week ending on July 28. The biofuel production dropped to an average of 1.06 million barrels a day during the week. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.094 million barrels the previous week and the lowest level since July 7. In the Midwest, the largest producing region in the country, output dropped to 1.005 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.02 million a week earlier. The agency said that’s also the lowest point in three weeks. West Coast production was closer to normal levels of 13,000 barrels a day, down from the previous week’s record total of 25,000 barrels. Production on the Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountain region, and East Coast levels were unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol inventories shrank to 22.86 million barrels a day, down from 23.28 million a week earlier.- NAFB

Ethanol production and stockpiles fall

The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter this week to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan regarding the E15 RVP Petition from several Midwest Governors. 

The association wants Regan and his agency to finalize its regulations accepting the petition of eight Midwest governors that would reduce evaporative emissions and allow summertime sales of the lower-cost, low-carbon E15 fuel blend in their states. 

“Three months have passed since EPA’s public comment period ended, and more than a year has passed since EPA’s statutory deadline to promulgate a final rule approving the Governors’ petition,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. 

“And yet, despite strong public support for EPA’s proposal, the agency still has not finalized the rule or publicly provided a schedule for doing so.” He also said the RFA wants the final rule published as soon as possible because the 2024 summer ozone control season is only nine months away.

The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter this week to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan regarding the E15 RVP Petition from several Midwest Governors. The association wants Regan and his agency to finalize its regulations accepting the petition of eight Midwest governors that would reduce evaporative emissions and allow summertime sales of the lower-cost, low-carbon E15 fuel blend in their states. “Three months have passed since EPA’s public comment period ended, and more than a year has passed since EPA’s statutory deadline to promulgate a final rule approving the Governors’ petition,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “And yet, despite strong public support for EPA’s proposal, the agency still has not finalized the rule or publicly provided a schedule for doing so.” He also said the RFA wants the final rule published as soon as possible because the 2024 summer ozone control season is only nine months away.- NAFB

RFA asks EPA to approve Midwest E15 Petition

After reaching historic highs in 2022, prices for major fertilizers have trended consistently lower since then. 

Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois says supply and demand fundamentals, as well as some resolution of the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were contributing factors. 

Fertilizer prices peaked during the second quarter of 2022. 

Anhydrous ammonia reached $1,635 per ton in June 2022 and has since declined by almost 47 percent to $870 per ton on July 27.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Urea and liquid nitrogen, at $497 per ton and $536 per ton on July 27, have dropped over 50 percent and almost 22 percent, respectively, from their highs reached in 2022. 

DAP prices have fallen by 20 percent from more than $1,000 per ton in June 2022 to $822 per ton on July 27. Potash prices have fallen over 35 percent to $558 a ton from a peak of $865 in April 2022.

After reaching historic highs in 2022, prices for major fertilizers have trended consistently lower since then. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois says supply and demand fundamentals, as well as some resolution of the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were contributing factors. Fertilizer prices peaked during the second quarter of 2022. Anhydrous ammonia reached $1,635 per ton in June 2022 and has since declined by almost 47 percent to $870 per ton on July 27.&nbsp;&nbsp;Urea and liquid nitrogen, at $497 per ton and $536 per ton on July 27, have dropped over 50 percent and almost 22 percent, respectively, from their highs reached in 2022. DAP prices have fallen by 20 percent from more than $1,000 per ton in June 2022 to $822 per ton on July 27. Potash prices have fallen over 35 percent to $558 a ton from a peak of $865 in April 2022.- NAFB

Fertilizer prices continue dropping from peak levels in 2022

Triumph Foods and a group of Midwest pork producers are suing Massachusetts over its Question 3 law and others that set minimum housing requirements for livestock. 

The plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Q3 law and seeking immediate relief from the law before it takes effect on August 24. 

They also want enforcement stayed until the litigation is complete. 

The law was approved by voters in 2016, and the plaintiffs say it creates challenges to interstate commerce and places burdensome costs on pork producers outside of Massachusetts. The complaint comes months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of California’s Prop 12 animal housing regulations. 

While both California and Massachusetts laws impose housing standards for pork, producers argue Q3 goes further by not allowing the transshipment of whole pork throughout the state. That nuance in the Massachusetts law set off multiple lawsuits filed by restaurant, hospitality, and agriculture groups.

Triumph Foods and a group of Midwest pork producers are suing Massachusetts over its Question 3 law and others that set minimum housing requirements for livestock. The plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Q3 law and seeking immediate relief from the law before it takes effect on August 24. They also want enforcement stayed until the litigation is complete. The law was approved by voters in 2016, and the plaintiffs say it creates challenges to interstate commerce and places burdensome costs on pork producers outside of Massachusetts. The complaint comes months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of California’s Prop 12 animal housing regulations. While both California and Massachusetts laws impose housing standards for pork, producers argue Q3 goes further by not allowing the transshipment of whole pork throughout the state. That nuance in the Massachusetts law set off multiple lawsuits filed by restaurant, hospitality, and agriculture groups.- NAFB

Pork producers sue Massachusetts over Animal Housing Law

Ethanol groups welcome new legislation that seeks to level the playing field for vehicles running on low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol. 

Senators Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act last week. 

The legislation, according to the lawmakers, would provide a meaningful incentive for automakers to manufacture flex-fuel vehicles in addition to battery electric vehicles. 

Currently, the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency has prioritized regulations that favor dramatically increasing production of EVs and forcing them on consumers, according to Senator Rickets, who says, "The Biden EPA has made a mistake and ignored the proven benefits of flex fuel vehicles that can run higher ethanol blends.” 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This bill would level the playing field, so both electricity and low-carbon biofuels can drive progress toward a net-zero future.” Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper adds, “This legislation helps unlock the potential of renewable fuels and puts more tools in the toolbox for automakers.”

Ethanol groups welcome new legislation that seeks to level the playing field for vehicles running on low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol. Senators Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act last week. The legislation, according to the lawmakers, would provide a meaningful incentive for automakers to manufacture flex-fuel vehicles in addition to battery electric vehicles. Currently, the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency has prioritized regulations that favor dramatically increasing production of EVs and forcing them on consumers, according to Senator Rickets, who says, "The Biden EPA has made a mistake and ignored the proven benefits of flex fuel vehicles that can run higher ethanol blends.” Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This bill would level the playing field, so both electricity and low-carbon biofuels can drive progress toward a net-zero future.” Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper adds, “This legislation helps unlock the potential of renewable fuels and puts more tools in the toolbox for automakers.”- NAFB

Ethanol groups welcome Flex Fuel Fairness Act

The Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee plans to release a draft Farm Bill at the end of August. 

During a Farm Bill listening session in Maine this week, Representative Glenn GT Thompson told the Hagstrom Report he plans a markup "in mid-September," but only if the leadership has told him what week the bill will be scheduled to come up on the House floor. 

However, that depends on when House leadership will schedule floor time for the bill. 

The Pennsylvania Republican told attendees of the listening session, "This farm bill is going to be bipartisan, bicameral, on time and highly effective," adding, "Now the time part, we only control the House, we do not control the Senate, but we are doing our job." 

The House Agriculture Committee is holding additional listening sessions, including one Wednesday at FarmFest in Minnesota. The current Farm Bill expires at the end of the Fiscal Year, September 30, 2023.

The Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee plans to release a draft Farm Bill at the end of August. During a Farm Bill listening session in Maine this week, Representative Glenn GT Thompson told the Hagstrom Report he plans a markup "in mid-September," but only if the leadership has told him what week the bill will be scheduled to come up on the House floor. However, that depends on when House leadership will schedule floor time for the bill. The Pennsylvania Republican told attendees of the listening session, "This farm bill is going to be bipartisan, bicameral, on time and highly effective," adding, "Now the time part, we only control the House, we do not control the Senate, but we are doing our job." The House Agriculture Committee is holding additional listening sessions, including one Wednesday at FarmFest in Minnesota. The current Farm Bill expires at the end of the Fiscal Year, September 30, 2023.- NAFB

House Ag Chair hoping for September Farm Bill markup

New legislation would allow businesses that directly support the fishing industry to access existing agriculture loan programs. 

Introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations, like gear producers or cold storage, to access loans from the Farm Credit System. 

Pingree&nbsp; says, “Small businesses that directly help our iconic fishing industry should be able to depend on the Farm Credit System as countless farmers, ranchers, and loggers have for decades.” 

Higgins adds, “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries.” 

Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says, “Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural fishing communities.” 

Senators Angus King, an Independent from Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

New legislation would allow businesses that directly support the fishing industry to access existing agriculture loan programs. Introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations, like gear producers or cold storage, to access loans from the Farm Credit System. Pingree&nbsp; says, “Small businesses that directly help our iconic fishing industry should be able to depend on the Farm Credit System as countless farmers, ranchers, and loggers have for decades.” Higgins adds, “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries.” Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says, “Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural fishing communities.” Senators Angus King, an Independent from Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, introduced a companion bill in the Senate.- NAFB

Bipartisan bill supports rural fishing communities

The 2023 Precision Agriculture Dealership Survey shows continued growth in technology to streamline and increase the efficiency of operations, such as in sprayer boom section/nozzle control, turn compensation, fleet management and telemetry. 

These are possible reactions to input costs and skilled worker shortages, according to Purdue University and CropLife America, organizers of the survey. 

The enthusiasm continues for applying crop inputs with drones. 

More dealers will offer drone imagery, but fewer dealers are offering satellite or aerial imagery, and dealers say imagery use is declining on farms. 

On-farm data continues to be used the most for fertilizer-related decisions and for hybrid/variety selection, but in the last few years, dealers have not increased their use of on-farm data for decision-making. 

The survey shows 89 percent of dealers use auto guidance on their application equipment/GPS-guided boom section/nozzle controllers on sprayers, which reduce doubling-up and skips, are used at 82 percent of dealerships, and sprayer turn compensation continues to grow, now at 41 percent.

The 2023 Precision Agriculture Dealership Survey shows continued growth in technology to streamline and increase the efficiency of operations, such as in sprayer boom section/nozzle control, turn compensation, fleet management and telemetry. These are possible reactions to input costs and skilled worker shortages, according to Purdue University and CropLife America, organizers of the survey. The enthusiasm continues for applying crop inputs with drones. More dealers will offer drone imagery, but fewer dealers are offering satellite or aerial imagery, and dealers say imagery use is declining on farms. On-farm data continues to be used the most for fertilizer-related decisions and for hybrid/variety selection, but in the last few years, dealers have not increased their use of on-farm data for decision-making. The survey shows 89 percent of dealers use auto guidance on their application equipment/GPS-guided boom section/nozzle controllers on sprayers, which reduce doubling-up and skips, are used at 82 percent of dealerships, and sprayer turn compensation continues to grow, now at 41 percent.- NAFB

Precision technology growth continues

Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. 

Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. 

The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. 

As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. 

The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. 

Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones.

Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones.- NAFB

Farmer to Farmer Education Act introduced in senate

The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. 

The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” 

The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. 

As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.

The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.- NAFB

Fuel prices surge as heat hits refinery output

A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20.

USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons.

Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons.

Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.

A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20.USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons.Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons.Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.-NAFB

Export Sales of Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat Rise

The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act.

The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states.

The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another.

The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace.

The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act.The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states.The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another.The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace.-NAFB

Farmers, Ranchers Storm Capitol Hill Opposing EATS Act

Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming.

The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies.

“It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.”

Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming.The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies.“It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.”-NAFB

Legislation Would Target Farm Payments Where Needed Most

Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. 

The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. 

The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. 

The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. 

Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.

Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.- NAFB

House bill would help farmers and ranchers combat drought

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. 

The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. 

A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. 

They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. 

“Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. &nbsp;

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. “Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. &nbsp;- NAFB