Clean Fuels Alliance America and 75 industry stakeholders delivered a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday. 

The letter urges the president to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency substantially increases the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023, 2024 and 2025. 

The letter points out that EPA's proposed volumes fall far below the industry's current production and, if finalized, would undermine investments in the industry's expansion. 

EPA is expected to finalize the RFS volumes by June 14. The letter states, "The low volumes threaten the ability of new market sectors, like marine and aviation, to decarbonize in the near term." 

Clean Fuels was joined in the letter by several national industry associations and their members, including American Soybean Association, 22 state soybean associations, Diesel Technology Forum, National Energy and Fuels Institute, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association.

Clean Fuels Alliance America and 75 industry stakeholders delivered a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday. The letter urges the president to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency substantially increases the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023, 2024 and 2025. The letter points out that EPA's proposed volumes fall far below the industry's current production and, if finalized, would undermine investments in the industry's expansion. EPA is expected to finalize the RFS volumes by June 14. The letter states, "The low volumes threaten the ability of new market sectors, like marine and aviation, to decarbonize in the near term." Clean Fuels was joined in the letter by several national industry associations and their members, including American Soybean Association, 22 state soybean associations, Diesel Technology Forum, National Energy and Fuels Institute, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association.- NAFB

Clean Fuels, RFS stakeholders send letter to President Biden on RFS BBD volumes

A new study from the University of California – Riverside shows that the E15 ethanol blend provides notable emissions reductions compared to California's regular reformulated gasoline. 

The Renewable Fuels Association hailed the report as proof of the value of E15 for The Golden State, which has yet to allow the E15 blend to be used. 

RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, “This new study shows what we've been arguing all along--that E15 offers emissions benefits that would help meet environmental goals in California.” 

According to the study, emissions of total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide all showed either marginally or statistically significant reductions for E15 compared to regular California gasoline. 

In addition, particulate matter and solid particle number emissions dropped substantially with E15, and E15 showed lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings when compared to E10. Nitrogen oxide emissions when using E15 showed marginal reductions in many cases, but the changes in Nitrogen oxide emissions were not statistically significant.

A new study from the University of California – Riverside shows that the E15 ethanol blend provides notable emissions reductions compared to California's regular reformulated gasoline. The Renewable Fuels Association hailed the report as proof of the value of E15 for The Golden State, which has yet to allow the E15 blend to be used. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, “This new study shows what we've been arguing all along--that E15 offers emissions benefits that would help meet environmental goals in California.” According to the study, emissions of total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide all showed either marginally or statistically significant reductions for E15 compared to regular California gasoline. In addition, particulate matter and solid particle number emissions dropped substantially with E15, and E15 showed lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings when compared to E10. Nitrogen oxide emissions when using E15 showed marginal reductions in many cases, but the changes in Nitrogen oxide emissions were not statistically significant.- NAFB

Study shows emissions-reducing benefits of E15

Nebraska Farm Bureau is working with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand broadband access in the state. 

Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, says, “We are excited to work with Starlink to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas in Nebraska that are underserved.” 

Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet capable of streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more to users worldwide. 

While the carriers, providers, and telecoms continue to grapple with federal and state monies to get quality broadband to rural areas of the country, Starlink and NEFB thought it was important to take this broadband service issue into our own hands and deliver the connectivity to our farm, ranch, and rural members in a way that avoids the regulatory hoops and the high cost of getting fiber to the "last mile.” 

Nebraska Farm Bureau members can take advantage of this new member benefit by visiting the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at nefb.org.

Nebraska Farm Bureau is working with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand broadband access in the state. Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, says, “We are excited to work with Starlink to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas in Nebraska that are underserved.” Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet capable of streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more to users worldwide. While the carriers, providers, and telecoms continue to grapple with federal and state monies to get quality broadband to rural areas of the country, Starlink and NEFB thought it was important to take this broadband service issue into our own hands and deliver the connectivity to our farm, ranch, and rural members in a way that avoids the regulatory hoops and the high cost of getting fiber to the "last mile.” Nebraska Farm Bureau members can take advantage of this new member benefit by visiting the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at nefb.org.- NAFB

Nebraska Farm Bureau working with SpaceX to expand broadband

USDA’s Economic Research Service reports frozen wholesale turkey breast prices climbed abruptly in response to the 2022 avian flu outbreak. 

Before the outbreak started in February 2022, both frozen whole bird and wholesale turkey breast prices had been increasing gradually. 

Cumulative losses because of avian flu surpassed seven million turkeys, and breast prices peaked at $2.98 per pound in the week ending October 7, 2022. 

Prices remained elevated for the remainder of the year. Once reports of new outbreaks slowed in mid-December 2022, whole turkey hen prices leveled off. 

At the same time, breast prices declined, averaging $2.34 per pound in the week ending April 28, 2023. This is $0.32 higher than a similar week in 2022, but down $0.64 from the peak price last year. 

Divergence in prices between frozen turkey breast meat and whole bird prices is, in part, explained by seasonality. Demand for whole birds is much more seasonal than wholesale demand for turkey breast meat.

USDA’s Economic Research Service reports frozen wholesale turkey breast prices climbed abruptly in response to the 2022 avian flu outbreak. Before the outbreak started in February 2022, both frozen whole bird and wholesale turkey breast prices had been increasing gradually. Cumulative losses because of avian flu surpassed seven million turkeys, and breast prices peaked at $2.98 per pound in the week ending October 7, 2022. Prices remained elevated for the remainder of the year. Once reports of new outbreaks slowed in mid-December 2022, whole turkey hen prices leveled off. At the same time, breast prices declined, averaging $2.34 per pound in the week ending April 28, 2023. This is $0.32 higher than a similar week in 2022, but down $0.64 from the peak price last year. Divergence in prices between frozen turkey breast meat and whole bird prices is, in part, explained by seasonality. Demand for whole birds is much more seasonal than wholesale demand for turkey breast meat.- NAFB

Avian flu losses in 2022 impact on consumer prices

The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel this week at the 2023 World Pork Expo. 

NPPC board officers and experts discussed the pork industry’s current priorities vital to protecting producers’ livelihoods and ensuring pork production remains a pillar of the U.S. economy. 

NPPC President Scott Hays says, “Advocating for reasonable public policy, expanding exports, protecting our animals from foreign animal diseases and defending efforts to restrict what we do all help keep our farms successful.” 

Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing the agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are some of the top public-policy issues for pork producers. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys commented that recent policy successes and disappointments will impact producers for years to come. 

With the Supreme Court’s decision upholding California Proposition 12, another NPPC priority is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to ensure a smooth transition for farmers and consumers who want to continue buying pork at California grocery stores and restaurants.

The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel this week at the 2023 World Pork Expo. NPPC board officers and experts discussed the pork industry’s current priorities vital to protecting producers’ livelihoods and ensuring pork production remains a pillar of the U.S. economy. NPPC President Scott Hays says, “Advocating for reasonable public policy, expanding exports, protecting our animals from foreign animal diseases and defending efforts to restrict what we do all help keep our farms successful.” Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing the agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are some of the top public-policy issues for pork producers. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys commented that recent policy successes and disappointments will impact producers for years to come. With the Supreme Court’s decision upholding California Proposition 12, another NPPC priority is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to ensure a smooth transition for farmers and consumers who want to continue buying pork at California grocery stores and restaurants.- NAFB

NPPC speaks up on policy priorities at World Pork Expo

New legislation introduced this week would increase support for farmers, ranchers, and foresters with small-acreage operations across the country. 

The Office of Small Farms Establishment Act would create a new office within USDA. 

The office would ensure that small-acreage operations have equitable access to the critical federal programs that provide farm loans, conservation funding, and crop insurance. 

New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker introduced the bill in the Senate, and Democrat Representatives Marilyn Strickland of Washington, Alma Adams of North Caroline and Jim McGovern introduced the bill in the House. 

Small farms are essential to local and regional food supply chains, bolstering rural economic vitality, food security, and community resilience, according to the lawmakers.&nbsp; Although they only cover eight percent of agricultural land, they are responsible for 20 percent of all agricultural sales. 

American Farmland Trust supports the legislation, as a spokesperson for the organization says, “This bill is really about ensuring equitable access to the full range of essential support” for farmers.

New legislation introduced this week would increase support for farmers, ranchers, and foresters with small-acreage operations across the country. The Office of Small Farms Establishment Act would create a new office within USDA. The office would ensure that small-acreage operations have equitable access to the critical federal programs that provide farm loans, conservation funding, and crop insurance. New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker introduced the bill in the Senate, and Democrat Representatives Marilyn Strickland of Washington, Alma Adams of North Caroline and Jim McGovern introduced the bill in the House. Small farms are essential to local and regional food supply chains, bolstering rural economic vitality, food security, and community resilience, according to the lawmakers.&nbsp; Although they only cover eight percent of agricultural land, they are responsible for 20 percent of all agricultural sales. American Farmland Trust supports the legislation, as a spokesperson for the organization says, “This bill is really about ensuring equitable access to the full range of essential support” for farmers.- NAFB

Office of Small Farms Establishment Act introduced in House and Senate 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Global prices for wheat and corn soared Tuesday after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kakhovka-dam-flood-evacuation-eecc9952c2d9f500c38b0a873f69438c">major dam in Ukraine collapsed</a>, renewing market fears about the fragility of the country's ability to ship food to Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia as it fights a war with Russia.

Wheat prices gained 2.4% in early trading Tuesday on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, to $6.39 a bushel. The cost of corn rose more than 1%, to $6.04 a bushel, and oats gained 0.73%, to $3.46 per unit. Prices were higher earlier in the day but faded.

The destruction of the Kakhovka dam and hydroelectric power station, which sits in a Russian-controlled area on the Dnieper River, raised concerns about disruption to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-africa-lifestyle-middle-east-1b41faaa7ac0984d0673023b68d39a70">Ukraine's affordable supplies of wheat</a>, barley, corn and sunflower oil getting to developing nations where&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunger-africa-sahel-jihadi-violence-7c9e54def06b88d0e60b9e53a814301f">people are struggling with hunger</a>&nbsp;and high food prices.

“Anytime this war shows signs of getting further escalated, there’s a lot of concern,” said Joseph Glauber, senior research fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute. “Markets react to that.”

Ukraine and Russia are both major agricultural suppliers and the war's disruption to their exports&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-covid-politics-health-middle-east-58bb99da6bf9fc6af5a5a645022bc4d7">worsened a global food crisis</a>&nbsp;tied to droughts and other factors. Breakthrough agreements brokered by the U.N. and Turkey last year got food moving again through the Black Sea, but it's faced setbacks.

Russia briefly pulled out of the deal last year, has threatened to leave again, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-grain-ships-fertilizer-limit-e683cfb5e79559b39d0c983aea563291">accused of slowing shipments from Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-grain-food-security-67e9fd1b5ee8b46fdd9c28955dbcb465">only agreed to renew the deal for two months</a>&nbsp;at a time.

“People are going to be watching to see what happens with the agreement,” said Glauber, former chief economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. “This reminds everyone that it’s not just pro forma, that this could be a very serious development if indeed the agreement is broken.”

There are massive agricultural fields in southern Ukraine where the dam burst, and while the collapse has endangered crops in the path of the floodwaters, Glauber says&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-grain-farmers-food-a9df0827d8009c3fef347378061f9dd7">less wheat has been planted</a>&nbsp;in that area because it's near the fighting and a lot is growing elsewhere.

The collapse has threatened drinking water supplies, with officials also warning of a looming environmental disaster — pointing to oil escaping from the dam machinery and significant flooding.

Andrey Sizov, managing director of Black Sea agricultural markets research firm SovEcon, said the dam collapse looked "like a big escalation with dire consequences and huge headline risk.”

“This could be just the start of the bull run,” Sizov&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/sizov_andre/status/1665938993769316354?cxt=HHwWhIC80YaszZ4uAAAA">wrote on Twitter</a>&nbsp;early Tuesday.

The wheat futures rally overnight and early Tuesday lost steam as the day progressed. As of around 3 p.m. ET, for example, the price of wheat was down to $6.27 a bushel.

Wheat, vegetable oil and other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-inflation-health-business-climate-and-environment-00539505ec5db37de5877137b9febeb8">food commodity prices have fallen from record highs</a>&nbsp;last year after Russia's invasion of Ukraine — thanks in part to the Black Sea grain deal — but the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-prices-inflation-ukraine-war-economy-8daa7e3d92666d290d87932dc8f25a94">relief in prices has not made it to markets</a>, grocery stores and kitchen tables.

Citi commodities analysts called the dam breach a “reminder of lingering inflationary risk in the goods market.”

It's possible temporary jumps in prices follow significant news events, like the dam collapse, analysts say.

But circumstances are key — and expectations for food exports from Ukraine will likely “continue to diminish as we recognize that Ukrainian production will continue to be severely impaired because of the war,” said Joe Janzen, assistant professor at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.

The supply of grain Ukraine is able to export is 40% lower than it was two years ago, Glauber said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686057672800.png" alt="Image made from video provided by Ukraine's Presidential Office&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image made from video provided by Ukraine's Presidential Office&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Global prices for wheat and corn soared Tuesday after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kakhovka-dam-flood-evacuation-eecc9952c2d9f500c38b0a873f69438c">major dam in Ukraine collapsed</a>, renewing market fears about the fragility of the country's ability to ship food to Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia as it fights a war with Russia.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaIsATerroristState?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaIsATerroristState</a> and the only way to stop it, is to kick it out of Ukraine. Blowing up the Kakhovska HPP will have devastating consequences,incl drowning in the region, long term water shortage, irreparable damages to thousands of lives of innocent civilians and ecosystem <a href="https://t.co/Cj2lTaoVZd">pic.twitter.com/Cj2lTaoVZd</a>&mdash; MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_Ukraine/status/1665964127477481473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Wheat prices gained 2.4% in early trading Tuesday on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, to $6.39 a bushel. The cost of corn rose more than 1%, to $6.04 a bushel, and oats gained 0.73%, to $3.46 per unit. Prices were higher earlier in the day but faded.The destruction of the Kakhovka dam and hydroelectric power station, which sits in a Russian-controlled area on the Dnieper River, raised concerns about disruption to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-africa-lifestyle-middle-east-1b41faaa7ac0984d0673023b68d39a70">Ukraine's affordable supplies of wheat</a>, barley, corn and sunflower oil getting to developing nations where&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunger-africa-sahel-jihadi-violence-7c9e54def06b88d0e60b9e53a814301f">people are struggling with hunger</a>&nbsp;and high food prices.“Anytime this war shows signs of getting further escalated, there’s a lot of concern,” said Joseph Glauber, senior research fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute. “Markets react to that.”Ukraine and Russia are both major agricultural suppliers and the war's disruption to their exports&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-covid-politics-health-middle-east-58bb99da6bf9fc6af5a5a645022bc4d7">worsened a global food crisis</a>&nbsp;tied to droughts and other factors. Breakthrough agreements brokered by the U.N. and Turkey last year got food moving again through the Black Sea, but it's faced setbacks.Russia briefly pulled out of the deal last year, has threatened to leave again, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-grain-ships-fertilizer-limit-e683cfb5e79559b39d0c983aea563291">accused of slowing shipments from Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-grain-food-security-67e9fd1b5ee8b46fdd9c28955dbcb465">only agreed to renew the deal for two months</a>&nbsp;at a time.“People are going to be watching to see what happens with the agreement,” said Glauber, former chief economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. “This reminds everyone that it’s not just pro forma, that this could be a very serious development if indeed the agreement is broken.”There are massive agricultural fields in southern Ukraine where the dam burst, and while the collapse has endangered crops in the path of the floodwaters, Glauber says&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-grain-farmers-food-a9df0827d8009c3fef347378061f9dd7">less wheat has been planted</a>&nbsp;in that area because it's near the fighting and a lot is growing elsewhere.The collapse has threatened drinking water supplies, with officials also warning of a looming environmental disaster — pointing to oil escaping from the dam machinery and significant flooding.Andrey Sizov, managing director of Black Sea agricultural markets research firm SovEcon, said the dam collapse looked "like a big escalation with dire consequences and huge headline risk.”“This could be just the start of the bull run,” Sizov&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/sizov_andre/status/1665938993769316354?cxt=HHwWhIC80YaszZ4uAAAA">wrote on Twitter</a>&nbsp;early Tuesday.The wheat futures rally overnight and early Tuesday lost steam as the day progressed. As of around 3 p.m. ET, for example, the price of wheat was down to $6.27 a bushel.Wheat, vegetable oil and other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-inflation-health-business-climate-and-environment-00539505ec5db37de5877137b9febeb8">food commodity prices have fallen from record highs</a>&nbsp;last year after Russia's invasion of Ukraine — thanks in part to the Black Sea grain deal — but the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-prices-inflation-ukraine-war-economy-8daa7e3d92666d290d87932dc8f25a94">relief in prices has not made it to markets</a>, grocery stores and kitchen tables.Citi commodities analysts called the dam breach a “reminder of lingering inflationary risk in the goods market.”It's possible temporary jumps in prices follow significant news events, like the dam collapse, analysts say.But circumstances are key — and expectations for food exports from Ukraine will likely “continue to diminish as we recognize that Ukrainian production will continue to be severely impaired because of the war,” said Joe Janzen, assistant professor at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.The supply of grain Ukraine is able to export is 40% lower than it was two years ago, Glauber said.

Wheat prices jump following collapse of major dam in Ukraine

Corteva and the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, recently announced a new collaboration to support Ukrainian farmers. 

Through the collaboration, USAID and Corteva Agriscience will advance the shared goals of increasing farmer access to crop inputs, financing, and post-harvest storage. 

A Corteva spokesperson says, “Ukrainian farmers are entering this planting season facing immense challenges.” 

Corteva Agriscience, which previously announced its decision to withdraw from Russia, is increasing its production of hybrid corn and sunflower seeds in the region by 30 percent over the next five years. The effort will help ensure a stable supply of seeds for Ukrainian farmers. 

Corteva is also increasing Ukrainian farmer access to the latest crop protection technologies, agronomic support, and financing tools - all key components required to plant a high-yielding, profitable crop. 

USAID is advancing the $100 million Agriculture Resilience Initiative (AGRI) - Ukraine to bolster Ukrainian agriculture exports and to help alleviate the global food security crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.

Corteva and the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, recently announced a new collaboration to support Ukrainian farmers. Through the collaboration, USAID and Corteva Agriscience will advance the shared goals of increasing farmer access to crop inputs, financing, and post-harvest storage. A Corteva spokesperson says, “Ukrainian farmers are entering this planting season facing immense challenges.” Corteva Agriscience, which previously announced its decision to withdraw from Russia, is increasing its production of hybrid corn and sunflower seeds in the region by 30 percent over the next five years. The effort will help ensure a stable supply of seeds for Ukrainian farmers. Corteva is also increasing Ukrainian farmer access to the latest crop protection technologies, agronomic support, and financing tools - all key components required to plant a high-yielding, profitable crop. USAID is advancing the $100 million Agriculture Resilience Initiative (AGRI) - Ukraine to bolster Ukrainian agriculture exports and to help alleviate the global food security crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.-NAFB

Corteva, USAID, announce support for Ukrainian farmers

Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. 

The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. 

May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. 

John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. 

While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1.

Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1.- NAFB

Rapid snowmelt results in higher Missouri River runoff

National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of this year. 

Mulhern will conclude a decade of service leading the organization and capping a 45-year career in U.S. agricultural and dairy policy. 

Mulhern says, "Directing the policy efforts of the nation's dairy farmers and their cooperatives has been the highlight of my professional career." 

Mulhern began as President and CEO in 2013 and guided NMPF through two completed farm bills, the COVID-19 crisis, and an ever-quickening pace of change in the industry. 

After coming to Washington to work on Capitol Hill in 1982, he began his first stint with NMPF in 1985, directing the organization's government affairs activities and shaping NMPF's strategy in the face of earlier farm crises. 

The topic of naming a new top executive at NMPF will be discussed at NMPF’s Board Meeting this week in Arlington, VA.

National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of this year. Mulhern will conclude a decade of service leading the organization and capping a 45-year career in U.S. agricultural and dairy policy. Mulhern says, "Directing the policy efforts of the nation's dairy farmers and their cooperatives has been the highlight of my professional career." Mulhern began as President and CEO in 2013 and guided NMPF through two completed farm bills, the COVID-19 crisis, and an ever-quickening pace of change in the industry. After coming to Washington to work on Capitol Hill in 1982, he began his first stint with NMPF in 1985, directing the organization's government affairs activities and shaping NMPF's strategy in the face of earlier farm crises. The topic of naming a new top executive at NMPF will be discussed at NMPF’s Board Meeting this week in Arlington, VA.- NAFB

Mulhern to retire as NMPF President and CEO

USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Undersecretary Alexis Taylor Monday launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan. 

The U.S. delegation includes representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. 

Taylor says, "As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States." 

Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. 

Throughout the week, USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. 

The trade mission itinerary also includes meetings with Japanese and local government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities.

USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Undersecretary Alexis Taylor Monday launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan. The U.S. delegation includes representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. Taylor says, "As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States." Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. Throughout the week, USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. The trade mission itinerary also includes meetings with Japanese and local government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities.- NAFB

USDA kicks off Agribusiness Trade Mission to Japan

With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. 

The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. 

However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. 

As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." 

Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.

With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.- NAFB

OPEC could derail fuel price declines

For more than 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged in our nation's capital each summer to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. 

National FFA Organization members are in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the National FFA Organization's Washington Leadership Conference. 

The more than 50-year tradition brings thousands of FFA members to Washington, D.C., to interact with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects. 

More than 2,000 FFA members from throughout the country are expected to attend the 2023 conference. FFA members will spend the week under the guidance of agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff. 

FFA members will also have the unique opportunity to participate in congressional visits with legislators from their states during the week. Members can share concerns and challenges from their communities and discuss agricultural-related legislation.

For more than 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged in our nation's capital each summer to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. National FFA Organization members are in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the National FFA Organization's Washington Leadership Conference. The more than 50-year tradition brings thousands of FFA members to Washington, D.C., to interact with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects. More than 2,000 FFA members from throughout the country are expected to attend the 2023 conference. FFA members will spend the week under the guidance of agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff. FFA members will also have the unique opportunity to participate in congressional visits with legislators from their states during the week. Members can share concerns and challenges from their communities and discuss agricultural-related legislation.- NAFB

FFA members attending Washington Leadership Conference

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. 

The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. 

“Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. 

Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. 

Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. 

“The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. &nbsp;

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. “Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. “The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. &nbsp;- NAFB

USTR to initiate USMCA dispute settlement with Mexico

A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. 

The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. 

Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. 

“We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” 

The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.

A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. “We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.- NAFB

Legislators oppose discriminatory Brazilian tariffs on ethanol

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was pleased that the Senate voted to pass the bipartisan bill to avoid a debt default, calling it critical for our economy and families. 

“I’m pleased this agreement protects the important steps that we’ve taken over the last two years to rebuild America, bring jobs home, lower the costs of health care, and tackle the climate crisis,” Stabenow says. 

Stabenow also says she’s deeply disappointed by the changes that were agreed to in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

“As the Ag, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair, I intend to produce a bipartisan farm bill that protects critical nutrition and food assistance programs for all Americans,” she said. 

“And as far as I’m concerned, the work requirements issue is settled for this Congress.” She intends to in no way further erode the dignity of Americans who need roughly $6 a day to buy food.

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was pleased that the Senate voted to pass the bipartisan bill to avoid a debt default, calling it critical for our economy and families. “I’m pleased this agreement protects the important steps that we’ve taken over the last two years to rebuild America, bring jobs home, lower the costs of health care, and tackle the climate crisis,” Stabenow says. Stabenow also says she’s deeply disappointed by the changes that were agreed to in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “As the Ag, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair, I intend to produce a bipartisan farm bill that protects critical nutrition and food assistance programs for all Americans,” she said. “And as far as I’m concerned, the work requirements issue is settled for this Congress.” She intends to in no way further erode the dignity of Americans who need roughly $6 a day to buy food.- NAFB

Senate Ag Chair comments on debt agreement

Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. 

The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. 

They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. 

“Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. 

“Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” 

The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence.

Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. “Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. “Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence.- NAFB

Reps push USTR for actions on Mexico under the USMCA

A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. 

Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. 

CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. 

Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. 

If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities.

A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities.- NAFB

Rising cost of carry is hitting grain elevators’ bottom lines

Congressman&nbsp;Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin reintroduced the Guaranteeing Robust Agricultural Independence and Nutrition for America (GRAIN) Act. 

It would place a one-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. 

After the one-year moratorium, the bill would prevent prime farmland from getting enrolled in the CRP. 

“Food security is national security, and America needs to be taking the necessary steps to shore up our food supply,” Tiffany says. “We can only have a prosperous future if we allow our nation’s farmers to unleash their full production potential.” 

He also says the bill came about because the administration expanded the CRP in a “green fantasy” attempting to achieve net-zero emissions. 

Tiffany’s GRAIN for America Act would not impact farmland that is already a part of the CRP. Additionally, farmers who already have land in the CRP can re-enroll during the moratorium.

Congressman&nbsp;Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin reintroduced the Guaranteeing Robust Agricultural Independence and Nutrition for America (GRAIN) Act. It would place a one-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. After the one-year moratorium, the bill would prevent prime farmland from getting enrolled in the CRP. “Food security is national security, and America needs to be taking the necessary steps to shore up our food supply,” Tiffany says. “We can only have a prosperous future if we allow our nation’s farmers to unleash their full production potential.” He also says the bill came about because the administration expanded the CRP in a “green fantasy” attempting to achieve net-zero emissions. Tiffany’s GRAIN for America Act would not impact farmland that is already a part of the CRP. Additionally, farmers who already have land in the CRP can re-enroll during the moratorium.- NAFB

Legislation will strengthen America’s food supply

West Coast ports in the U.S. started negotiating a new labor contract just over a year ago. 

While working without a new contract in place isn’t unheard of, the contract has now been expired for over 10 months. 

A report from the U.S. Meat Export Federation says the labor uncertainty is having an impact on red meat exports. 

“There’s a lot of questions and uncertainty surrounding the west coast ports,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. 

“Those ports are a vital starting point for a large number of our shipments to Asia.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Long Beach and LA ports shut down in mid-April and were followed by further disruptions later that month. 

He says USMEF is seeing a reduction in imports, and some discretionary cargo is getting diverted away to ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the East Coast. “This isn’t good news for the meat industry,” he says.&nbsp;

West Coast ports in the U.S. started negotiating a new labor contract just over a year ago. While working without a new contract in place isn’t unheard of, the contract has now been expired for over 10 months. A report from the U.S. Meat Export Federation says the labor uncertainty is having an impact on red meat exports. “There’s a lot of questions and uncertainty surrounding the west coast ports,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Those ports are a vital starting point for a large number of our shipments to Asia.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Long Beach and LA ports shut down in mid-April and were followed by further disruptions later that month. He says USMEF is seeing a reduction in imports, and some discretionary cargo is getting diverted away to ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the East Coast. “This isn’t good news for the meat industry,” he says.&nbsp;- NAFB

West Coast ports losing business as negotiations continue

The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is designed to help with slowdowns and other issues at U.S. ports. 

The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act follows the Ocean Shipping Reform Act passed a year ago. 

The first bill gave the Federal Maritime Commission the power to address the actions of foreign carriers leaving U.S. ports empty and not carrying American goods back home. 

The new Reform Implementation Act clarifies the FMC role and focuses attention on shipping exchanges. The goals are to streamline port logistics, reduce disruption, and address the influence of Chinese companies on shippers’ operations. U.S. ports are also prohibited from using Chinese state-sponsored software. 

The FMC can now investigate foreign shipping exchanges like the Shanghai Shipping Exchange to prevent improper business practices. 

A report from Supply Management says the sponsoring legislators point out it gives the FMC the authority to protect U.S. ports, shippers, and manufacturers from Chinese influence. &nbsp;

The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is designed to help with slowdowns and other issues at U.S. ports. The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act follows the Ocean Shipping Reform Act passed a year ago. The first bill gave the Federal Maritime Commission the power to address the actions of foreign carriers leaving U.S. ports empty and not carrying American goods back home. The new Reform Implementation Act clarifies the FMC role and focuses attention on shipping exchanges. The goals are to streamline port logistics, reduce disruption, and address the influence of Chinese companies on shippers’ operations. U.S. ports are also prohibited from using Chinese state-sponsored software. The FMC can now investigate foreign shipping exchanges like the Shanghai Shipping Exchange to prevent improper business practices. A report from Supply Management says the sponsoring legislators point out it gives the FMC the authority to protect U.S. ports, shippers, and manufacturers from Chinese influence. &nbsp;- NAFB

Groups pushing for passage of Shipping Reform Implementation Act

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has issued an early report on places it expects to be hunger hotspots from June to November. 

The FAO says food insecurity is likely going to increase in magnitude and severity in 18 hunger hotspots in 22 countries. 

The report spotlights the risk of spillover in the Sudan crisis, raising the risk of negative impacts in the surrounding countries. 

It also says deeper economic shocks will continue to drive low- and middle-income nations deeper into crisis. FAO is also warning that a likely El Niño climate event will raise fears of climate extremes in the most vulnerable nations around the world. 

All of the hotspots at the highest level of concern have populations facing or projected to face starvation or are at risk of deterioration towards those conditions. Countries like Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, and South Sudan remain at the highest level of concern.

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has issued an early report on places it expects to be hunger hotspots from June to November. The FAO says food insecurity is likely going to increase in magnitude and severity in 18 hunger hotspots in 22 countries. The report spotlights the risk of spillover in the Sudan crisis, raising the risk of negative impacts in the surrounding countries. It also says deeper economic shocks will continue to drive low- and middle-income nations deeper into crisis. FAO is also warning that a likely El Niño climate event will raise fears of climate extremes in the most vulnerable nations around the world. All of the hotspots at the highest level of concern have populations facing or projected to face starvation or are at risk of deterioration towards those conditions. Countries like Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, and South Sudan remain at the highest level of concern.- NAFB

FAO issues report on world’s hunger hotspots

JEFFERSON CITY&nbsp;— On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson signed&nbsp;Executive Order 23-05 declaring a Drought&nbsp;Alert in the State of Missouri in accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, according to a media release from his office.

"With the summer months fast approaching, we want to be proactive to help mitigate the impacts of drought&nbsp;conditions we are experiencing,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "Missouri farmers and ranchers often bear the brunt of the consequences of drought, and we are already starting to see early effects on crops and livestock. While we cannot control the weather, we are committed to&nbsp;doing&nbsp;everything we can to alleviate the strain drought causes for our agricultural&nbsp;families and protect our food supply chains."

A Drought Alert, part of&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/missouri-drought-mitigation-response-plan-2023">Missouri’s Drought Plan</a>, is the first step for the Governor to direct state agencies to work together to provide as many resources and as much assistance as possible.&nbsp;

The Executive Order directs the Director of the Missouri Department&nbsp;of Natural Resources (DNR), Dru Buntin, to activate Missouri's Drought Assessment Committee and requests&nbsp;that all Missouri and federal agencies&nbsp;participate&nbsp;as needed. The Committee's first meeting will be held next Wednesday, June 7 at 2 p.m. DNR will coordinate additional&nbsp;meeting details.

Missouri agencies participating on the Drought Assessment Committee include the Department of Conservation, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Economic Development, Department of Health and Senior&nbsp;Services, and Department of Public Safety.

The Committee will further&nbsp;assess drought&nbsp;conditions and make preliminary recommendations&nbsp;to Governor Parson by Friday, June 9. Recommendations could include actions similar to those taken in the past, including a&nbsp;hay lottery program, opening public waters for livestock, easing hay hauling restrictions, etc.

Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of 60 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive&nbsp;Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any other county that begins experiencing&nbsp;drought conditions.&nbsp;

In a fast-moving drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR)</a>.

A variety of helpful resources are online at&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/water/hows-water/state-water/drought">www.dnr.mo.gov/drought</a>. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities daily as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">CMOR</a>, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire&nbsp;prevention&nbsp;website:&nbsp;<a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention">www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685580214260.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY&nbsp;— On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson signed&nbsp;Executive Order 23-05 declaring a Drought&nbsp;Alert in the State of Missouri in accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, according to a media release from his office."With the summer months fast approaching, we want to be proactive to help mitigate the impacts of drought&nbsp;conditions we are experiencing,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "Missouri farmers and ranchers often bear the brunt of the consequences of drought, and we are already starting to see early effects on crops and livestock. While we cannot control the weather, we are committed to&nbsp;doing&nbsp;everything we can to alleviate the strain drought causes for our agricultural&nbsp;families and protect our food supply chains."A Drought Alert, part of&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/missouri-drought-mitigation-response-plan-2023">Missouri’s Drought Plan</a>, is the first step for the Governor to direct state agencies to work together to provide as many resources and as much assistance as possible.&nbsp;The Executive Order directs the Director of the Missouri Department&nbsp;of Natural Resources (DNR), Dru Buntin, to activate Missouri's Drought Assessment Committee and requests&nbsp;that all Missouri and federal agencies&nbsp;participate&nbsp;as needed. The Committee's first meeting will be held next Wednesday, June 7 at 2 p.m. DNR will coordinate additional&nbsp;meeting details.Missouri agencies participating on the Drought Assessment Committee include the Department of Conservation, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Economic Development, Department of Health and Senior&nbsp;Services, and Department of Public Safety.The Committee will further&nbsp;assess drought&nbsp;conditions and make preliminary recommendations&nbsp;to Governor Parson by Friday, June 9. Recommendations could include actions similar to those taken in the past, including a&nbsp;hay lottery program, opening public waters for livestock, easing hay hauling restrictions, etc.Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of 60 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive&nbsp;Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any other county that begins experiencing&nbsp;drought conditions.&nbsp;In a fast-moving drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR)</a>.A variety of helpful resources are online at&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/water/hows-water/state-water/drought">www.dnr.mo.gov/drought</a>. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities daily as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">CMOR</a>, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire&nbsp;prevention&nbsp;website:&nbsp;<a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention">www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention</a>.

Gov. signs executive order declaring drought alert in Missouri 

USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought.

 “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. 

Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.

USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought. “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.- NAFB

Drought area spreading in parts of rural America

Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. 

If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. 

Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012.

Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012.- NAFB