A federal judge this week vacated the 2020 dicamba registrations by the Environmental Protection Agency. The ruling in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona leaves farmers without options to use dicamba in the upcoming growing season.

Affected products include Bayer’s XtendiMax, BASF’s Engenia and Syngenta’s Tavium. In response, the North Carolina State University Extension says, "Many will panic in response to this news and scramble to switch technology."

The court vacated registrations for over-the-top use of dicamba, ruling that the EPA violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act’s public input requirement before its approval. Proponents called the ruling a “vital victory for farmers and the environment.” The Center for Biological Diversity claims, “Endangered butterflies and bee populations will keep tanking if the EPA keeps twisting itself into a pretzel to approve this product just to appease the pesticide industry.”

Crop protection companies are assessing the situation to find a path forward for dicamba.

A federal judge this week vacated the 2020 dicamba registrations by the Environmental Protection Agency. The ruling in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona leaves farmers without options to use dicamba in the upcoming growing season.Affected products include Bayer’s XtendiMax, BASF’s Engenia and Syngenta’s Tavium. In response, the North Carolina State University Extension says, "Many will panic in response to this news and scramble to switch technology."The court vacated registrations for over-the-top use of dicamba, ruling that the EPA violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act’s public input requirement before its approval. Proponents called the ruling a “vital victory for farmers and the environment.” The Center for Biological Diversity claims, “Endangered butterflies and bee populations will keep tanking if the EPA keeps twisting itself into a pretzel to approve this product just to appease the pesticide industry.”Crop protection companies are assessing the situation to find a path forward for dicamba.-NAFB

Federal Judge Vacates Dicamba Registrations

House Ag Democrats are stepping up public pressure to get a farm bill done soon, based on key Democratic principles.

Ag Democrats blame GOP “discord and disorder” for delaying a farm bill again this year, as other legislative disputes and the election year calendar start to close off farm bill prospects.

But each side continues to hold fast to long-held bargaining positions—Democrats in a new ‘principles memo,’ say they’ll protect SNAP and climate investments. Republicans continue to argue SNAP and climate savings are needed to boost farm programs.

Top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries argued earlier, the farm bill should be “fertile ground” for coming together, but added.

“The only problem that we confront now, is that the extreme MAGA Republicans want to hijack the farm bill, and take it in a certain direction, inconsistent with meeting the needs of farmers and the American people. And we will oppose that, every step of the way.”

But Ag Chair GT Thompson argued in December, writing the next farm bill will take “significant investment” by repurposing Inflation Reduction Act funds and reforming SNAP.

“These ideas have been applauded and demonized, but I will not relent, and I will not fail our rural communities, many of whom have suffered insurmountable loss due to variables beyond their control.”

Thompson called his approach “strategic” arguing it would fine tune the farm safety net and increase the farm bill funding baseline.

In the Senate, Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow proposed shifting ARC and PLC funds to more time-sensitive crop insurance payments, an idea that has yet to gain traction among Ag Republicans.

House Ag Democrats are stepping up public pressure to get a farm bill done soon, based on key Democratic principles.Ag Democrats blame GOP “discord and disorder” for delaying a farm bill again this year, as other legislative disputes and the election year calendar start to close off farm bill prospects.But each side continues to hold fast to long-held bargaining positions—Democrats in a new ‘principles memo,’ say they’ll protect SNAP and climate investments. Republicans continue to argue SNAP and climate savings are needed to boost farm programs.Top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries argued earlier, the farm bill should be “fertile ground” for coming together, but added.“The only problem that we confront now, is that the extreme MAGA Republicans want to hijack the farm bill, and take it in a certain direction, inconsistent with meeting the needs of farmers and the American people. And we will oppose that, every step of the way.”But Ag Chair GT Thompson argued in December, writing the next farm bill will take “significant investment” by repurposing Inflation Reduction Act funds and reforming SNAP.“These ideas have been applauded and demonized, but I will not relent, and I will not fail our rural communities, many of whom have suffered insurmountable loss due to variables beyond their control.”Thompson called his approach “strategic” arguing it would fine tune the farm safety net and increase the farm bill funding baseline.In the Senate, Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow proposed shifting ARC and PLC funds to more time-sensitive crop insurance payments, an idea that has yet to gain traction among Ag Republicans.-NAFB

House Ag Democrats Press For Farm Bill, Key Principles

A letter signed by more than 3,400 farmers was sent to President Biden Wednesday expressing concern over the administration's focus on electric vehicles. Specifically, the prioritization of electric vehicles over biofuels, such as corn ethanol, as it works to drastically lower the nation's greenhouse gas emissions.

The letter says, "If we are going to address climate change and meet our sustainability goals, we are going to have to take a multi-pronged approach, that includes tapping into higher levels of biofuels." The letter, which drew thousands of signatures in less than a week, comes as the Environmental Protection Agency prepares to release its light- and medium-duty vehicle tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032.

A recent survey, sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association shows Americans have concerns on a range of issues involving electric vehicles. In the letter, the farmers said it could take years before EVs become popular with consumers, which means the administration must expand its focus and efforts to address greenhouse gasses with solutions that are available now.

A letter signed by more than 3,400 farmers was sent to President Biden Wednesday expressing concern over the administration's focus on electric vehicles. Specifically, the prioritization of electric vehicles over biofuels, such as corn ethanol, as it works to drastically lower the nation's greenhouse gas emissions.The letter says, "If we are going to address climate change and meet our sustainability goals, we are going to have to take a multi-pronged approach, that includes tapping into higher levels of biofuels." The letter, which drew thousands of signatures in less than a week, comes as the Environmental Protection Agency prepares to release its light- and medium-duty vehicle tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032.A recent survey, sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association shows Americans have concerns on a range of issues involving electric vehicles. In the letter, the farmers said it could take years before EVs become popular with consumers, which means the administration must expand its focus and efforts to address greenhouse gasses with solutions that are available now.-NAFB

Corn Farmers Caution Administration over Electric Vehicles

House Agriculture Committee Democrats published a memo Wednesday laying out the principles the next farm bill should include. The principles outline the requests needed to win support of the House Democratic Caucus, however, draw hard lines against proposals from Republicans.

The principles are distilled from farm bill priorities submitted by Democratic Members across the Caucus and represent the shared values of House Democrats, including protecting Inflation Reduction Act climate investments and SNAP.

Ranking member David Scott of Georgia says, "After months of Republican discord and disorder delaying the passage of the farm bill, the principles document presents an honest assessment of where House Democrats are on farm bill policy."

Scott believes the principles offer Republicans an "unambiguous and straightforward path to passing a strong, effective, and bipartisan farm bill." According to the Democratic principles, the farm bill must reduce hunger, strengthen America's farmers, and invest in sustainable agriculture, among other issues.

House Agriculture Committee Democrats published a memo Wednesday laying out the principles the next farm bill should include. The principles outline the requests needed to win support of the House Democratic Caucus, however, draw hard lines against proposals from Republicans.The principles are distilled from farm bill priorities submitted by Democratic Members across the Caucus and represent the shared values of House Democrats, including protecting Inflation Reduction Act climate investments and SNAP.Ranking member David Scott of Georgia says, "After months of Republican discord and disorder delaying the passage of the farm bill, the principles document presents an honest assessment of where House Democrats are on farm bill policy."Scott believes the principles offer Republicans an "unambiguous and straightforward path to passing a strong, effective, and bipartisan farm bill." According to the Democratic principles, the farm bill must reduce hunger, strengthen America's farmers, and invest in sustainable agriculture, among other issues.-NAFB

House Democrats Draw Lines on Farm Bill Priorities

USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts that U.S. net cash farm income will decrease by $42.2 billion, or 25.8 percent, to $121.7 billion in 2024 in inflation-adjusted dollars.

This is after net farm cash income decreased in 2023 by a forecast of $50.2 billion to $163.9 billion. Net cash farm income is defined as gross cash income minus cash expenses. Net farm income is forecast to decrease by $43.1 billion to $116.1 billion from 2023 to 2024. Net farm income is a broader measure of farm sector profitability that incorporates noncash items, including changes in inventories, economic depreciation, and gross imputed rental income.

Cash receipts for farm commodities are projected to fall by $32.2 billion to $485.5 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, production expenses are expected to increase by $7.2 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $455.1 billion in 2024. Also, total commodity insurance indemnity payments are forecasted to fall by $1.5 billion in 2024, and direct government payments to farmers are projected to fall by $2.2 billion from 2023 levels to $10.2 billion in 2024.

USDA’s Economic Research Service forecasts that U.S. net cash farm income will decrease by $42.2 billion, or 25.8 percent, to $121.7 billion in 2024 in inflation-adjusted dollars.This is after net farm cash income decreased in 2023 by a forecast of $50.2 billion to $163.9 billion. Net cash farm income is defined as gross cash income minus cash expenses. Net farm income is forecast to decrease by $43.1 billion to $116.1 billion from 2023 to 2024. Net farm income is a broader measure of farm sector profitability that incorporates noncash items, including changes in inventories, economic depreciation, and gross imputed rental income.Cash receipts for farm commodities are projected to fall by $32.2 billion to $485.5 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, production expenses are expected to increase by $7.2 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $455.1 billion in 2024. Also, total commodity insurance indemnity payments are forecasted to fall by $1.5 billion in 2024, and direct government payments to farmers are projected to fall by $2.2 billion from 2023 levels to $10.2 billion in 2024.-NAFB

USDA Predicts Large Decline in Farm Income

Mobile app ordering at quick service restaurants remains popular following the COVID-19 pandemic.

USDA’s Economic Research Service released data Tuesday showing consumer spending trends on carryout and delivery from quick-service restaurants by mobile application from December 2019–February 2020 through October–December 2022. In June–August 2020, carryout spending at quick-service restaurants via restaurant-specific apps doubled from pre-pandemic levels, and spending on delivery via third-party apps more than tripled.

Third-party apps typically offer food from a variety of restaurants, while the restaurant or establishment operates restaurant-specific apps. App spending on carryout and delivery peaked in March–May 2021, reaching a total of $4.4 billion, with third-party app delivery and restaurant-specific app carryout spending each reaching about $1.6 billion.

Most recently, total app spending on both carryout and delivery reached roughly $3.9 billion, where restaurant-specific carryout spending and third-party app delivery spending accounted for $1.6 and $1.4 billion, respectively.

Mobile app ordering at quick service restaurants remains popular following the COVID-19 pandemic.USDA’s Economic Research Service released data Tuesday showing consumer spending trends on carryout and delivery from quick-service restaurants by mobile application from December 2019–February 2020 through October–December 2022. In June–August 2020, carryout spending at quick-service restaurants via restaurant-specific apps doubled from pre-pandemic levels, and spending on delivery via third-party apps more than tripled.Third-party apps typically offer food from a variety of restaurants, while the restaurant or establishment operates restaurant-specific apps. App spending on carryout and delivery peaked in March–May 2021, reaching a total of $4.4 billion, with third-party app delivery and restaurant-specific app carryout spending each reaching about $1.6 billion.Most recently, total app spending on both carryout and delivery reached roughly $3.9 billion, where restaurant-specific carryout spending and third-party app delivery spending accounted for $1.6 and $1.4 billion, respectively.-NAFB

Mobile App Restaurant Orders Remain Popular Following Pandemic

Grocery prices with some exceptions, remain high, and could go even higher, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. It’s sticker shock at the grocery store, and AFBF Economist Bernt Nelson says input costs and general inflation are among the main culprits.

“Across the board, with our grocery prices, we’re still seeing pressures from the high input costs that farmers face. That, combined with the inflationary pressures that are still hanging on, are giving us this scenario, where we’re still seeing some prices rise in the grocery stores.”

The Washington Post recently reported that grocery prices have jumped 25 percent in the last four years, outpacing overall inflation of 19 percent, with sharp jumps for beef, sugar and juice.

Nelson says egg prices have been more volatile as avian influenza took a toll on bird populations last year.

“They’ve come back down as we’ve seen these outbreaks kind of dial back, but we’re still seeing some supply issues, due to avian influenza that have kind of driven things back up in the $2, $2.20 average range.”

Nelson says beef prices are stable for now, but might hit record highs by next year, based on the lowest inventory of cattle and calves since 1951.

Higher processing plant and grocery store wages and post-pandemic shipping costs plus Russia’s war with Ukraine have also spiked food prices, including for grains and vegetable oils.

AFBF urges lawmakers to pass a farm bill.

“We need a farm bill to provide that safety net for when farmers end up in hard times. So, whether it be from a natural disaster, lower prices, higher input costs.”

Economist Nelson says whether it's high input costs or food security, a new farm bill can address both.

Grocery prices with some exceptions, remain high, and could go even higher, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. It’s sticker shock at the grocery store, and AFBF Economist Bernt Nelson says input costs and general inflation are among the main culprits.“Across the board, with our grocery prices, we’re still seeing pressures from the high input costs that farmers face. That, combined with the inflationary pressures that are still hanging on, are giving us this scenario, where we’re still seeing some prices rise in the grocery stores.”The Washington Post recently reported that grocery prices have jumped 25 percent in the last four years, outpacing overall inflation of 19 percent, with sharp jumps for beef, sugar and juice.Nelson says egg prices have been more volatile as avian influenza took a toll on bird populations last year.“They’ve come back down as we’ve seen these outbreaks kind of dial back, but we’re still seeing some supply issues, due to avian influenza that have kind of driven things back up in the $2, $2.20 average range.”Nelson says beef prices are stable for now, but might hit record highs by next year, based on the lowest inventory of cattle and calves since 1951.Higher processing plant and grocery store wages and post-pandemic shipping costs plus Russia’s war with Ukraine have also spiked food prices, including for grains and vegetable oils.AFBF urges lawmakers to pass a farm bill.“We need a farm bill to provide that safety net for when farmers end up in hard times. So, whether it be from a natural disaster, lower prices, higher input costs.”Economist Nelson says whether it's high input costs or food security, a new farm bill can address both.-NAFB

Grocery Prices Still High, Could Go Higher Says AFBF

Banning foreign adversaries from owning Missouri farmland is being brought before the legislature for a second year.  

State Senator Rusty Black of Chillicothe says it became an issue in the 2022 US Senate campaign in Missouri. 

"The second part on making decisions also is of course national security or security of important assets included in our state, you know our military assets as well as other infrastructure assets," Black tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  

Black says the concern is that businesses and individual from countries considered adversarial to the United States, such as China and North Korea, might buy farmland near those military facilities.  

Earlier this year, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed an executive order banning those adversaries from purchasing farmland within a 10-mile radius of critical military facilities.  

Black says enforcement of the law would align with an executive order issued by Governor Mike Parson in January.  

"Then within the law, if we end up with a law similar to what the executive order is, within that it can force the divestiture of that property that was purchased," Black explains.  

Black says the executive order is a step in the right direction, but it now needs to become law. 

"What the governor did, certainly don't think I'm talking bad about it, but then we need to make sure that we come up with what we believe is best for our state and pass that into law so that we can consider it more permanent," Black says. 

Black says a discussion in the legislature has been what should be determined as critical infrastructure, citing one example as Smithfield Foods being near the Trenton armory.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post Banning foreign adversaries from owning Missouri farmland is being brought before the legislature for a second year. State Senator Rusty Black of Chillicothe says it became an issue in the 2022 US Senate campaign in Missouri. "The second part on making decisions also is of course national security or security of important assets included in our state, you know our military assets as well as other infrastructure assets," Black tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Black says the concern is that businesses and individual from countries considered adversarial to the United States, such as China and North Korea, might buy farmland near those military facilities. Earlier this year, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed an executive order banning those adversaries from purchasing farmland within a 10-mile radius of critical military facilities. Black says enforcement of the law would align with an executive order issued by Governor Mike Parson in January. "Then within the law, if we end up with a law similar to what the executive order is, within that it can force the divestiture of that property that was purchased," Black explains. Black says the executive order is a step in the right direction, but it now needs to become law. "What the governor did, certainly don't think I'm talking bad about it, but then we need to make sure that we come up with what we believe is best for our state and pass that into law so that we can consider it more permanent," Black says. Black says a discussion in the legislature has been what should be determined as critical infrastructure, citing one example as Smithfield Foods being near the Trenton armory.<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Banning-foreign-ownership-of-land-facing-MO-legislature-e2fg8or" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Banning foreign ownership of farmland being brought to Missouri legislature

The National Chicken Council recently outlined how chicken producers reduce food waste, recycle byproducts and utilize products that would otherwise be destined for landfills.

The comments were in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics. In its comments, the council emphasized several important points and areas for enhancing the National Strategy, including the use of byproducts and rendering, along with automation and transportation improvement efforts. Several current and pending regulatory policies either do or would contribute to food waste in the chicken industry, according to the organization.

The first is for the FDA to allow surplus hatchery eggs into the breaking egg market, which would reduce waste and decrease costs. The second is a proposed Salmonella Framework, which is being drafted with the goal of improving food safety –– but is not based on scientific data nor is it associated with any known public health outcomes, according to NCC.

The National Chicken Council recently outlined how chicken producers reduce food waste, recycle byproducts and utilize products that would otherwise be destined for landfills.The comments were in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics. In its comments, the council emphasized several important points and areas for enhancing the National Strategy, including the use of byproducts and rendering, along with automation and transportation improvement efforts. Several current and pending regulatory policies either do or would contribute to food waste in the chicken industry, according to the organization.The first is for the FDA to allow surplus hatchery eggs into the breaking egg market, which would reduce waste and decrease costs. The second is a proposed Salmonella Framework, which is being drafted with the goal of improving food safety –– but is not based on scientific data nor is it associated with any known public health outcomes, according to NCC.-NAFB

NCC Highlights Chicken Industry’s Efforts to Reduce Food Waste

Restaurant sales are forecast to exceed $1.1 trillion this year, marking a new milestone for the industry that will employ over 15.7 million people in the United States by the end of 2024. The National Restaurant Association released its 2024 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report Tuesday.

The report finds restaurant operators are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, with nearly eight in ten predicting their sales will increase or hold steady from 2023 levels. However, challenges still exist for the sector. Consumers will notice menu changes more frequently, and it's often the result of increased food costs. In the past year, operators report needing to find new suppliers, removing items from their menus, adjusting portion sizes or substituting lower cost items all in response to elevated food prices.

The availability of food items also impacted menu composition, with more than three-quarters of operators saying their restaurant experienced supply delays or shortages of key food or beverage items in 2023.

Restaurant sales are forecast to exceed $1.1 trillion this year, marking a new milestone for the industry that will employ over 15.7 million people in the United States by the end of 2024. The National Restaurant Association released its 2024 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report Tuesday.The report finds restaurant operators are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, with nearly eight in ten predicting their sales will increase or hold steady from 2023 levels. However, challenges still exist for the sector. Consumers will notice menu changes more frequently, and it's often the result of increased food costs. In the past year, operators report needing to find new suppliers, removing items from their menus, adjusting portion sizes or substituting lower cost items all in response to elevated food prices.The availability of food items also impacted menu composition, with more than three-quarters of operators saying their restaurant experienced supply delays or shortages of key food or beverage items in 2023.-NAFB

Restaurant Industry Sales Forecast to Set $1.1 Trillion Record in 2024

Farmer sentiment took a downturn at the start of 2024 as the January Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index fell to a reading of 106, eight points below a month earlier.

Compared to year-end, producers had a more negative outlook of their farms' current situation along with a weakened outlook for the future. The Current Conditions Index fell nine points, and the Future Expectations Index dropped seven points, both compared to December. Anticipated lower farm income in 2024 significantly influenced the decline across all indices, evident in the Farm Financial Performance Index registering at 85, 12 points lower than a month earlier.

The percentage of producers expecting weaker financial performance rose from 20 percent in December to 31 percent in January, while those expecting incomes to be about the same fell from 63 percent to 53 percent. The combination of high input costs and declining commodity prices generated a weaker financial performance outlook for 2024, according to the survey results.

Farmer sentiment took a downturn at the start of 2024 as the January Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index fell to a reading of 106, eight points below a month earlier.Compared to year-end, producers had a more negative outlook of their farms' current situation along with a weakened outlook for the future. The Current Conditions Index fell nine points, and the Future Expectations Index dropped seven points, both compared to December. Anticipated lower farm income in 2024 significantly influenced the decline across all indices, evident in the Farm Financial Performance Index registering at 85, 12 points lower than a month earlier.The percentage of producers expecting weaker financial performance rose from 20 percent in December to 31 percent in January, while those expecting incomes to be about the same fell from 63 percent to 53 percent. The combination of high input costs and declining commodity prices generated a weaker financial performance outlook for 2024, according to the survey results.-NAFB

Market Prices, Input Costs, Pushing Expectations Lower

The University of Missouri Monday announced the launch of the Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center.

The center aims to help farmers move toward a future of sustainable agriculture by leveraging digital technologies and artificial intelligence for increased productivity, sustainability and profitability.

A spokesperson for the effort says, “This is the future of farming in Missouri and elsewhere, and people are looking to us as a proven academic leader in this space.”

The effort was formed by a partnership between the University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, the MU Extension service, and the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. The center will explore key areas in agriculture, such as crop production, soil health, precision livestock farming, and engineering innovations through research by faculty and students and collaboration with industry partners and agencies.

Adoption of any new technology takes time, and the center hopes to build trust and confidence in farmers and other stakeholders by being proactive in its education and outreach efforts.

The University of Missouri Monday announced the launch of the Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center.The center aims to help farmers move toward a future of sustainable agriculture by leveraging digital technologies and artificial intelligence for increased productivity, sustainability and profitability.A spokesperson for the effort says, “This is the future of farming in Missouri and elsewhere, and people are looking to us as a proven academic leader in this space.”The effort was formed by a partnership between the University’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, the MU Extension service, and the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. The center will explore key areas in agriculture, such as crop production, soil health, precision livestock farming, and engineering innovations through research by faculty and students and collaboration with industry partners and agencies.Adoption of any new technology takes time, and the center hopes to build trust and confidence in farmers and other stakeholders by being proactive in its education and outreach efforts.-NAFB

Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center Launched

U.S. Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip recently highlighted U.S. efforts to expand foreign markets for American beef, facing unscientific trade barriers.

McKalip told the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association at the group’s CattleCon 24 event, knocking down non-tariff trade barriers takes face-to-face talks with some of the U.S.' biggest trading partners.

“For example, Japan has greatly expanded their access for our products, and that’s a $2.3 billion market for US beef.”

McKalip says the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement is another area where non-scientific trade barriers kept or continue to keep out U.S. product.

“There are, just over the course of the last year, about $6 billion that we were able to save by getting countries to remove those regulatory hurdles, and that makes a big difference for beef exporters, and keeps the trade moving.”

But the U.S. was forced to seek a second trade dispute settlement panel over Canada’s dairy import quotas, after accusing Ottawa of failing to comply with an initial ruling in the U.S.’s favor.

McKalip meantime, says other markets are prime targets for expansion.

“Southeast Asia is certainly a major player, the growing population, the growing middle class, that’s a place where we need to diversify and spend a lot of time developing those markets.”

While McKalip, recently in Africa, says there are over 30 countries there that are interested in buying US agricultural products.

McKalip this week also plans to address state department of agriculture leaders at their association’s annual winter policy conference.

U.S. Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip recently highlighted U.S. efforts to expand foreign markets for American beef, facing unscientific trade barriers.McKalip told the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association at the group’s CattleCon 24 event, knocking down non-tariff trade barriers takes face-to-face talks with some of the U.S.' biggest trading partners.“For example, Japan has greatly expanded their access for our products, and that’s a $2.3 billion market for US beef.”McKalip says the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement is another area where non-scientific trade barriers kept or continue to keep out U.S. product.“There are, just over the course of the last year, about $6 billion that we were able to save by getting countries to remove those regulatory hurdles, and that makes a big difference for beef exporters, and keeps the trade moving.”But the U.S. was forced to seek a second trade dispute settlement panel over Canada’s dairy import quotas, after accusing Ottawa of failing to comply with an initial ruling in the U.S.’s favor.McKalip meantime, says other markets are prime targets for expansion.“Southeast Asia is certainly a major player, the growing population, the growing middle class, that’s a place where we need to diversify and spend a lot of time developing those markets.”While McKalip, recently in Africa, says there are over 30 countries there that are interested in buying US agricultural products.McKalip this week also plans to address state department of agriculture leaders at their association’s annual winter policy conference.-NAFB

USTR Ag Negotiator McKalip on Expanding US Beef Trade

The updated 2024 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average.

January runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 0.4 million acre-feet, 56 percent of average. Runoff was well-below-average due to much-below-normal temperatures over the whole Missouri River Basin and below-normal precipitation over most of the upper basin.

John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "The runoff into the reservoir system was well-below average for January," adding, "This fact in conjunction with the below-average plains and mountain snowpack indicates a below-normal runoff year for the basin.”

The 2024 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 18.8-million-acre feet, 73 percent of average. To conserve water in the system, releases from Gavins Point Dam are scheduled to be 13,000 cubic feet per second this winter while still serving the needs of the municipal, industrial and powerplant water intakes along the lower river.

The updated 2024 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, continues to be below average.January runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 0.4 million acre-feet, 56 percent of average. Runoff was well-below-average due to much-below-normal temperatures over the whole Missouri River Basin and below-normal precipitation over most of the upper basin.John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "The runoff into the reservoir system was well-below average for January," adding, "This fact in conjunction with the below-average plains and mountain snowpack indicates a below-normal runoff year for the basin.”The 2024 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 18.8-million-acre feet, 73 percent of average. To conserve water in the system, releases from Gavins Point Dam are scheduled to be 13,000 cubic feet per second this winter while still serving the needs of the municipal, industrial and powerplant water intakes along the lower river.-NAFB

Missouri River Runoff Below Normal

This week marks ten years since the Department of Agriculture created regional Climate Hubs. The hubs were established to help agricultural producers and rural communities make climate-informed decisions.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Today, as those risks are increasingly prevalent across the nation and the globe, the need for science-based climate information and assistance is more important than ever."

The Climate Hubs are an important piece of USDA's agenda to address climate change, complementing investments of $19.5 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest-ever climate investment, to help producers adopt climate-smart practices. Originally, ten regional locations were established across the United States. In May 2023, an International Climate Hub was added to share best practices, collaborate with international partners and improve the world's ability to mitigate and adapt to climate.

Today, the Climate Hubs form a network of more than 120 climate researchers and communicators who work across the USDA and with partners to support climate-informed decisions.

This week marks ten years since the Department of Agriculture created regional Climate Hubs. The hubs were established to help agricultural producers and rural communities make climate-informed decisions.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Today, as those risks are increasingly prevalent across the nation and the globe, the need for science-based climate information and assistance is more important than ever."The Climate Hubs are an important piece of USDA's agenda to address climate change, complementing investments of $19.5 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest-ever climate investment, to help producers adopt climate-smart practices. Originally, ten regional locations were established across the United States. In May 2023, an International Climate Hub was added to share best practices, collaborate with international partners and improve the world's ability to mitigate and adapt to climate.Today, the Climate Hubs form a network of more than 120 climate researchers and communicators who work across the USDA and with partners to support climate-informed decisions.-NAFB

USDA Celebrates 10 Years of Climate Hubs

Bill Northey, a long-time agriculture industry figure, and former USDA official in the Trump administration, has died.

The 64- year-old was serving as the CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. Northey grew up on an Iowa family farm. He has served as President of the National Corn Growers Association, three terms as the Iowa Agriculture Secretary, and as USDA Farm Production and Conservation undersecretary during the Trump administration.

Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, commented, “Today the Iowa farm community lost a giant. Bill Northey was a dear friend and fierce advocate for the family farmer.” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds added, “Bill understood well our responsibility to be good stewards of the land and exemplified that calling throughout his career.”

Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff immediately and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Northey’s funeral and interment.

Bill Northey, a long-time agriculture industry figure, and former USDA official in the Trump administration, has died.The 64- year-old was serving as the CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. Northey grew up on an Iowa family farm. He has served as President of the National Corn Growers Association, three terms as the Iowa Agriculture Secretary, and as USDA Farm Production and Conservation undersecretary during the Trump administration.Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, commented, “Today the Iowa farm community lost a giant. Bill Northey was a dear friend and fierce advocate for the family farmer.” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds added, “Bill understood well our responsibility to be good stewards of the land and exemplified that calling throughout his career.”Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff immediately and remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Northey’s funeral and interment.-NAFB

Industry Leader Northey Passes

The American Lamb Board kicked off Lamb Lover’s Month in February with an exciting campaign titled “Show Us Your Chops.” It invites consumers to enjoy savory lamb chops at their favorite restaurants or cook their favorite recipes at home.

The promotion features rack and loin chop recipes to help consumers create a romantic date night or a special dinner with friends or family featuring delicious American lamb. Consumers are invited to share their photos of their lamb chops at a restaurant or at home on the ALB consumer website or social media with the hashtag #showusyourchops. The contest will be promoted through social media advertising and sponsored blogger content throughout February.

“While Lamb Lovers Month has become a tradition for ALB, it’s also a very effective promotion for reaching new consumers with recipes and information about American lamb to expand usage beyond the traditional holidays,” says Jeff Ebert, ALB chairman.

The American Lamb Board kicked off Lamb Lover’s Month in February with an exciting campaign titled “Show Us Your Chops.” It invites consumers to enjoy savory lamb chops at their favorite restaurants or cook their favorite recipes at home.The promotion features rack and loin chop recipes to help consumers create a romantic date night or a special dinner with friends or family featuring delicious American lamb. Consumers are invited to share their photos of their lamb chops at a restaurant or at home on the ALB consumer website or social media with the hashtag #showusyourchops. The contest will be promoted through social media advertising and sponsored blogger content throughout February.“While Lamb Lovers Month has become a tradition for ALB, it’s also a very effective promotion for reaching new consumers with recipes and information about American lamb to expand usage beyond the traditional holidays,” says Jeff Ebert, ALB chairman.-NAFB

Lamb Lovers Month is Back

The bipartisan tax bill the House just passed overwhelmingly likely has enough Senate votes, but GOP detractors there vow to slow it down. The House vote approving the tax bill with key breaks for agriculture was 5 to 1.

American Farm Bureau Director of Government Affairs Dustin Sherer says that should be good news for the bill in the Senate.

“So, if you apply that same generalization over there, yeah, it’s got the votes to pass. It should be bipartisan. But whether or not there are senators that oppose it so much that they try to drag the process out.”

Several GOP senators now vow to do just that, seeking changes to the bill’s renewed expansion of the childcare tax credit. And Sherer points out how easy it is in the Senate to slow things down.

“If one senator objects to a time agreement, you don’t get a time agreement. It’s just how that place works.”

Not having a set debate time forces multiple 60-vote procedural hurdles to overcome filibuster tactics. But Sherer says Democrats must also consider savings achieved now by making the retroactive tax cuts ahead of next year’s tax cliff for these breaks.

“They have the incentive to be engaged when it comes time to talk about extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expiring provisions, almost entirely fall on the individual side of the code, when farmers and ranchers file their taxes.”

The bipartisan tax bill the House just passed overwhelmingly likely has enough Senate votes, but GOP detractors there vow to slow it down. The House vote approving the tax bill with key breaks for agriculture was 5 to 1.American Farm Bureau Director of Government Affairs Dustin Sherer says that should be good news for the bill in the Senate.“So, if you apply that same generalization over there, yeah, it’s got the votes to pass. It should be bipartisan. But whether or not there are senators that oppose it so much that they try to drag the process out.”Several GOP senators now vow to do just that, seeking changes to the bill’s renewed expansion of the childcare tax credit. And Sherer points out how easy it is in the Senate to slow things down.“If one senator objects to a time agreement, you don’t get a time agreement. It’s just how that place works.”Not having a set debate time forces multiple 60-vote procedural hurdles to overcome filibuster tactics. But Sherer says Democrats must also consider savings achieved now by making the retroactive tax cuts ahead of next year’s tax cliff for these breaks.“They have the incentive to be engaged when it comes time to talk about extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expiring provisions, almost entirely fall on the individual side of the code, when farmers and ranchers file their taxes.”-NAFB

Tax Bill Likely Has Enough Senate Vote, But Detractors Vow to Slow Process

The CattleFax Outlook Seminar at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in Florida shared expert market and weather analytics last week. The smallest beef cow inventory in the last 50 years, coupled with historically strong demand, led to the highest average fed cattle and calf prices in 2023.

As reduced cattle numbers and beef production continue over the next three years, leverage and profitability will continue to favor cattle producers. Despite record prices, an expansion will likely be delayed once again. Lingering drought, high input costs, limited labor availability, high interest rates, and market uncertainty all serve as headwinds against growing the cow herd.

Cow and bull slaughter is forecast to be 6.5 million head in 2024, down around 800,000 head from 2023. “Though cattle inventories may stay elevated for a few months, they are expected to decline significantly through the second half of 2024,” says Kevin Good of CattleFax.

The CattleFax Outlook Seminar at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in Florida shared expert market and weather analytics last week. The smallest beef cow inventory in the last 50 years, coupled with historically strong demand, led to the highest average fed cattle and calf prices in 2023.As reduced cattle numbers and beef production continue over the next three years, leverage and profitability will continue to favor cattle producers. Despite record prices, an expansion will likely be delayed once again. Lingering drought, high input costs, limited labor availability, high interest rates, and market uncertainty all serve as headwinds against growing the cow herd.Cow and bull slaughter is forecast to be 6.5 million head in 2024, down around 800,000 head from 2023. “Though cattle inventories may stay elevated for a few months, they are expected to decline significantly through the second half of 2024,” says Kevin Good of CattleFax.-NAFB

CattleFax Forecasts Profitability, Herd Expansion Ahead

The Land Report Research Team issued a report detailing who are America’s largest landowners. The “Land Report 100” shows that as of 2021, America’s largest landowner is named Red Emmerson.

He and his family own just over 2.4 million acres in California, Oregon, and Washington through their timber products company, Sierra Pacific Industries. They surpassed Liberty Media Chairman John Malone’s 2.2 million acres. CNN founder Ted Turner is America’s third biggest landowner with two million acres in the Southeast, Great Plains, and across the West.

The Lane Report 100 research team analyzes transactions and scours records to determine who are America’s leading landowners. That’s how they broke the news in 2020 that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was America’s largest farmland owner with more than 260,000 acres. They used the same methodology to identify the founder of the Shanda Investment Group as the owner of almost 200,000 acres of Oregon timberland this year.

The Land Report Research Team issued a report detailing who are America’s largest landowners. The “Land Report 100” shows that as of 2021, America’s largest landowner is named Red Emmerson.He and his family own just over 2.4 million acres in California, Oregon, and Washington through their timber products company, Sierra Pacific Industries. They surpassed Liberty Media Chairman John Malone’s 2.2 million acres. CNN founder Ted Turner is America’s third biggest landowner with two million acres in the Southeast, Great Plains, and across the West.The Lane Report 100 research team analyzes transactions and scours records to determine who are America’s leading landowners. That’s how they broke the news in 2020 that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was America’s largest farmland owner with more than 260,000 acres. They used the same methodology to identify the founder of the Shanda Investment Group as the owner of almost 200,000 acres of Oregon timberland this year.-NAFB

America’s Biggest Landowners

USDA data shows the U.S. soybean crush rose month-to-month but missed expectations. Processors crushed 204 million bushels of soybeans in December, up from 200 million a month earlier.

The agency’s report says that’s up from the 187 million bushels processed in December 2022 but is still down from the 206 million forecast before the report went public. Crude oil produced from the crush rose to 2.38 billion pounds, up two percent from November and eight percent from the same month a year earlier. Iowa was by far the biggest crusher of soybeans at approximately 49.3 million bushels, with Illinois second at 25.4 million bushels.

The states combined for 37 percent of the soybeans crushed in the U.S. during December. About 51.4 million bushels were crushed in the north and east region, which includes Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Processors in the north-central region crushed 37 million bushels of soybeans.

USDA data shows the U.S. soybean crush rose month-to-month but missed expectations. Processors crushed 204 million bushels of soybeans in December, up from 200 million a month earlier.The agency’s report says that’s up from the 187 million bushels processed in December 2022 but is still down from the 206 million forecast before the report went public. Crude oil produced from the crush rose to 2.38 billion pounds, up two percent from November and eight percent from the same month a year earlier. Iowa was by far the biggest crusher of soybeans at approximately 49.3 million bushels, with Illinois second at 25.4 million bushels.The states combined for 37 percent of the soybeans crushed in the U.S. during December. About 51.4 million bushels were crushed in the north and east region, which includes Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Processors in the north-central region crushed 37 million bushels of soybeans.-NAFB

Soybean Crush Rises But Short of Predictions

&nbsp;Farm State members of Congress helped push sweeping tax legislation across the finish line in the House, though some Ag Senators seem reluctant to throw their support behind the bill. Their message prevailed over bill opponents on both sides of the aisle—farmers and ranchers will benefit from the bipartisan, bicameral tax deal the House passed 357-70.

“Agriculture’s the economic engine of my district, and our tax policies must help our farmers grow, invest and compete with China. This legislation does exactly that.”

“100 percent bonus depreciation and the expansion of the Section 179 deduction limit. Our producers rely on these tools to buy farm equipment and invest in their operations.”

And from Nebraska Republican Adrian Smith on the tax writing Ways and Means Committee.

“This bill includes language that I introduced to ensure capital intensive industries can fully deduct the cost of interest from their taxes. This is particularly important right now, as Americans continue to deal with recent high inflation and higher interest rates.”

But in the Senate, Republicans Chuck Grassley, Thom Tillis and Mitt Romney, quoted in the Washington Post, criticized the bill, Grassley citing the political benefits to President Biden in an election year while withholding final judgment.

Still, groups on both sides of the political spectrum rallied behind the bill.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall in a written statement, said the bill will bring “meaningful tax relief to our nation’s farmers and ranchers at a time of high interest rates and slim margins.” He urged the Senate to “swiftly” pass it.

&nbsp;Farm State members of Congress helped push sweeping tax legislation across the finish line in the House, though some Ag Senators seem reluctant to throw their support behind the bill. Their message prevailed over bill opponents on both sides of the aisle—farmers and ranchers will benefit from the bipartisan, bicameral tax deal the House passed 357-70.Iowa’s Randy Feenstra.“Agriculture’s the economic engine of my district, and our tax policies must help our farmers grow, invest and compete with China. This legislation does exactly that.”From two key provisions.“100 percent bonus depreciation and the expansion of the Section 179 deduction limit. Our producers rely on these tools to buy farm equipment and invest in their operations.”And from Nebraska Republican Adrian Smith on the tax writing Ways and Means Committee.“This bill includes language that I introduced to ensure capital intensive industries can fully deduct the cost of interest from their taxes. This is particularly important right now, as Americans continue to deal with recent high inflation and higher interest rates.”But in the Senate, Republicans Chuck Grassley, Thom Tillis and Mitt Romney, quoted in the Washington Post, criticized the bill, Grassley citing the political benefits to President Biden in an election year while withholding final judgment.Still, groups on both sides of the political spectrum rallied behind the bill.American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall in a written statement, said the bill will bring “meaningful tax relief to our nation’s farmers and ranchers at a time of high interest rates and slim margins.” He urged the Senate to “swiftly” pass it.-NAFB

Farm State Reps Praise Tax Bill, Some Ag Senators Raise Doubts

Veterinarians will visit Capitol Hill next Tuesday to discuss legislative priorities with lawmakers. As part of the American Veterinary Medical Association's annual legislative fly-in, advocates will urge congressional offices to support and cosponsor the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act.

AVMA President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "We need to do more to attract and retain veterinarians in rural and underserved areas, and the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act will go a long way to address those needs,"

The AVMA-endorsed Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would end federal taxation on the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program. This action would enable more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $25,000 a year for student loan repayment in exchange for service in Department of Agriculture-designated

Veterinarian Shortage Situations. AVMA is also seeking support for the Healthy Dog Importation Act within the next Farm Bill, which the group says would decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from imported dogs.

Veterinarians will visit Capitol Hill next Tuesday to discuss legislative priorities with lawmakers. As part of the American Veterinary Medical Association's annual legislative fly-in, advocates will urge congressional offices to support and cosponsor the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act.AVMA President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "We need to do more to attract and retain veterinarians in rural and underserved areas, and the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act will go a long way to address those needs,"The AVMA-endorsed Rural Veterinary Workforce Act would end federal taxation on the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program. This action would enable more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $25,000 a year for student loan repayment in exchange for service in Department of Agriculture-designatedVeterinarian Shortage Situations. AVMA is also seeking support for the Healthy Dog Importation Act within the next Farm Bill, which the group says would decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from imported dogs.-NAFB

AVMA Plans Annual Legislative Fly-in

USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service this week released the Cattle report showing a two percent decline in U.S. cattle inventory.

The report shows 87.2 million head of cattle and calves on U.S. farms as of January 1, 2024. Of the 87.2 million head inventory, all cows and heifers that have calved totaled 37.6 million. There are 28.2 million beef cows in the United States, down two percent from last year. The number of milk cows in the United States decreased slightly to 9.36 million.

The U.S. calf crop was estimated at 33.6 million head, down two percent from 2022. All cattle on feed were at 14.4 million head, up two percent from 2023. To obtain an accurate measurement of the current state of the U.S. cattle industry, NASS surveyed approximately 36,300 operators across the nation during the first half of January.

Surveyed producers were asked to report their cattle inventories as of January 1, 2024, and calf crop for the entire year of 2023.

USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service this week released the Cattle report showing a two percent decline in U.S. cattle inventory.The report shows 87.2 million head of cattle and calves on U.S. farms as of January 1, 2024. Of the 87.2 million head inventory, all cows and heifers that have calved totaled 37.6 million. There are 28.2 million beef cows in the United States, down two percent from last year. The number of milk cows in the United States decreased slightly to 9.36 million.The U.S. calf crop was estimated at 33.6 million head, down two percent from 2022. All cattle on feed were at 14.4 million head, up two percent from 2023. To obtain an accurate measurement of the current state of the U.S. cattle industry, NASS surveyed approximately 36,300 operators across the nation during the first half of January.Surveyed producers were asked to report their cattle inventories as of January 1, 2024, and calf crop for the entire year of 2023.-NAFB

USDA Report Shows Cattle Inventory Declines

A new poll of agricultural economists by Farm Journal shows most expect lower commodity prices, along with the outlook for higher costs, to weigh on the agriculture industry in 2024.

Farm Journal has partnered with the University of Missouri to create the Ag Economists' Monthly Monitor. University of Missouri agricultural economist Scott Brown says, “If we continue down the path that we started with the January estimates, perhaps we're telling 2024 to be a less positive story than we would have just a few months ago.”

Ag economists' forecast for prices of all crops and livestock shifted lower compared to the December survey, signaling net farm income could also fall more than originally anticipated. The January survey found economists' views on net farm income also took a turn, with the survey average falling to $135 billion for 2024. However, ag economists think relatively strong balance sheets and working capital could provide a cushion for 2024 with no major concerns about immediate farm solvency issues.

A new poll of agricultural economists by Farm Journal shows most expect lower commodity prices, along with the outlook for higher costs, to weigh on the agriculture industry in 2024.Farm Journal has partnered with the University of Missouri to create the Ag Economists' Monthly Monitor. University of Missouri agricultural economist Scott Brown says, “If we continue down the path that we started with the January estimates, perhaps we're telling 2024 to be a less positive story than we would have just a few months ago.”Ag economists' forecast for prices of all crops and livestock shifted lower compared to the December survey, signaling net farm income could also fall more than originally anticipated. The January survey found economists' views on net farm income also took a turn, with the survey average falling to $135 billion for 2024. However, ag economists think relatively strong balance sheets and working capital could provide a cushion for 2024 with no major concerns about immediate farm solvency issues.-NAFB