The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the finalization of Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act. The final rule will be effective 60 days following publication in the Federal Register.

The final rule, Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act, establishes clearer, more effective standards for prohibited practices relating to discrimination, retaliation, and deception in contracting. USDA says this will help producers and growers that have suffered from increasingly consolidated markets over the last 30 years by enhancing market integrity and ensuring fair access to economic opportunities.

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew responded, “Today’s announcement is the culmination of years of work from NFU and supporters of equitable livestock markets.”

The final rule comes on the heels of a successful effort by NFU and allied organizations to keep a harmful policy rider out of the FY 2024 appropriations agreement. Such a rider would have thrown out existing rules, prevented future rulemakings and blocked USDA from making similar progress on the Packers and Stockyards Act, according to NFU.

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association responded to USDA's final Packers and Stockyards rule released Tuesday.

NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While we still have concerns about the unintended consequences of the rule, we are pleased that USDA has addressed most of our significant concerns between the proposed and final rules."

NCBA's concern with the regulation has always been based on the rule's unforeseen impacts on standard business practices. However, Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, argues the final rule does nothing to change competition. Potts says, “These changes are simply an attempt to assert even more federal authority to regulate the equities of industry business practices, clogging the federal courts with every contract dispute.”

She claims that Congress never intended to give USDA such broad-ranging authority over meat industry contracts and practices, regardless of their effect on competition. The Meat Institute previously submitted comments to USDA outlining legal precedent and congressional intent regarding the rule.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced the finalization of Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act. The final rule will be effective 60 days following publication in the Federal Register.The final rule, Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act, establishes clearer, more effective standards for prohibited practices relating to discrimination, retaliation, and deception in contracting. USDA says this will help producers and growers that have suffered from increasingly consolidated markets over the last 30 years by enhancing market integrity and ensuring fair access to economic opportunities.National Farmers Union President Rob Larew responded, “Today’s announcement is the culmination of years of work from NFU and supporters of equitable livestock markets.”The final rule comes on the heels of a successful effort by NFU and allied organizations to keep a harmful policy rider out of the FY 2024 appropriations agreement. Such a rider would have thrown out existing rules, prevented future rulemakings and blocked USDA from making similar progress on the Packers and Stockyards Act, according to NFU.The National Cattlemen's Beef Association responded to USDA's final Packers and Stockyards rule released Tuesday.NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While we still have concerns about the unintended consequences of the rule, we are pleased that USDA has addressed most of our significant concerns between the proposed and final rules."NCBA's concern with the regulation has always been based on the rule's unforeseen impacts on standard business practices. However, Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, argues the final rule does nothing to change competition. Potts says, “These changes are simply an attempt to assert even more federal authority to regulate the equities of industry business practices, clogging the federal courts with every contract dispute.”She claims that Congress never intended to give USDA such broad-ranging authority over meat industry contracts and practices, regardless of their effect on competition. The Meat Institute previously submitted comments to USDA outlining legal precedent and congressional intent regarding the rule.-NAFB

 USDA Releases Packers and Stockyards Act Final Rule on Competition; Livestock Groups Respond

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose modestly in February posting a reading of 111, five points higher than a month earlier.

The modest rise in the barometer was attributable to producers expressing somewhat more optimism about the future as the Future Expectations Index rose seven points to a reading of 115. The Current Conditions Index was unchanged at 103 compared to a month earlier. Meanwhile, February’s Farm Financial Performance Index reading of 85 was one point lower than in January and 13 points below its most recent peak in December.

Weak crop prices continue to weigh on financial expectations as mid-February Eastern Corn Belt cash prices for corn and soybeans were percent and eight percent lower, respectively, than two months earlier when the December survey was conducted. When asked about their biggest concerns for their farm operation in the upcoming year, producers in this month’s survey continued to point to high input costs and lower crop and livestock prices.

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose modestly in February posting a reading of 111, five points higher than a month earlier.The modest rise in the barometer was attributable to producers expressing somewhat more optimism about the future as the Future Expectations Index rose seven points to a reading of 115. The Current Conditions Index was unchanged at 103 compared to a month earlier. Meanwhile, February’s Farm Financial Performance Index reading of 85 was one point lower than in January and 13 points below its most recent peak in December.Weak crop prices continue to weigh on financial expectations as mid-February Eastern Corn Belt cash prices for corn and soybeans were percent and eight percent lower, respectively, than two months earlier when the December survey was conducted. When asked about their biggest concerns for their farm operation in the upcoming year, producers in this month’s survey continued to point to high input costs and lower crop and livestock prices.-NAFB

Modest Improvement in Farmer Sentiment, Financial Concerns Loom

The compromise USDA/FDA spending bill headed for House and Senate votes this week to avert the next partial shutdown cliff at midnight Friday pares the president's request but drops several GOP demands.

It’s less than Biden asked for, but more for some USDA agencies and feeding programs like WIC, less for others like SNAP, and no GOP abortion pill rider—the demise of the House version.

“It’s been a long road to get here…this is a bipartisan agreement in the end, but it sticks to the numbers—the agreement on spending—but it does not go above that. It will increase a bit defense spending, but there will be real cuts to non-defense discretionary spending.”

Almost three billion less than the president’s USDA/FDA ask, including small cuts from FY ’23 to FSA, NRCS, APHIS and the Ag Marketing Service, but more for FSIS meat inspections and emergency loans due to higher interest rates.

There’s 90 million for ReConnect broadband and more for child nutrition, but no USDA pay hikes or major new DC hires. While foreign buys of US farmland get better tracking and USDA Secretary involvement.

But after FY ’24 bills, it’s on to fiscal ’25.

“Turn the page on FY ’24 and get immediately into FY’25. And that process, to change the way that it’s done, to back it up on the calendar, to do everything we can to get that job done by the end of summer, so that we’re not coming up at the end of September, the end of the fiscal year, and having to talk about CRs and omnibuses and everything.”

But what about a farm bill? American Farm Bureau’s Emily Buckman ahead of this week’s spending bill votes.

“Our main priority this year is to get a farm bill across the finish line. And unless these funding bills are addressed, the government is funded in full, then that’ll just delay consideration.”

The compromise USDA/FDA spending bill headed for House and Senate votes this week to avert the next partial shutdown cliff at midnight Friday pares the president's request but drops several GOP demands.It’s less than Biden asked for, but more for some USDA agencies and feeding programs like WIC, less for others like SNAP, and no GOP abortion pill rider—the demise of the House version.House Speaker Mike Johnson.“It’s been a long road to get here…this is a bipartisan agreement in the end, but it sticks to the numbers—the agreement on spending—but it does not go above that. It will increase a bit defense spending, but there will be real cuts to non-defense discretionary spending.”Almost three billion less than the president’s USDA/FDA ask, including small cuts from FY ’23 to FSA, NRCS, APHIS and the Ag Marketing Service, but more for FSIS meat inspections and emergency loans due to higher interest rates.There’s 90 million for ReConnect broadband and more for child nutrition, but no USDA pay hikes or major new DC hires. While foreign buys of US farmland get better tracking and USDA Secretary involvement.But after FY ’24 bills, it’s on to fiscal ’25.“Turn the page on FY ’24 and get immediately into FY’25. And that process, to change the way that it’s done, to back it up on the calendar, to do everything we can to get that job done by the end of summer, so that we’re not coming up at the end of September, the end of the fiscal year, and having to talk about CRs and omnibuses and everything.”But what about a farm bill? American Farm Bureau’s Emily Buckman ahead of this week’s spending bill votes.“Our main priority this year is to get a farm bill across the finish line. And unless these funding bills are addressed, the government is funded in full, then that’ll just delay consideration.”

Final Ag Approps Bill Pares Biden Request, SNAP, Boosts WIC, Drops Abortion Pill Rider

A new analysis from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the USDA School Breakfast Program has served about 63 billion meals since it was established in 1975.

Any student in a participating school can get free or reduced-price breakfast through the program, depending on their family income as it relates to the Federal Poverty line. The number of breakfasts served increased each year from 1982 through fiscal year 2016, before plateauing at about 2.4 billion meals from 2017 through 2019. On average, 85 percent of breakfasts were served for free or at a reduced price each year during this period.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 interrupted school operations, including the provision of meals, and the number of breakfasts served through the program dropped to about 1.8 billion breakfasts in 2020. The decrease reflected the use of USDA pandemic waivers, which allowed schools to serve meals through the Summer Food Service Program.

A new analysis from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the USDA School Breakfast Program has served about 63 billion meals since it was established in 1975.Any student in a participating school can get free or reduced-price breakfast through the program, depending on their family income as it relates to the Federal Poverty line. The number of breakfasts served increased each year from 1982 through fiscal year 2016, before plateauing at about 2.4 billion meals from 2017 through 2019. On average, 85 percent of breakfasts were served for free or at a reduced price each year during this period.The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 interrupted school operations, including the provision of meals, and the number of breakfasts served through the program dropped to about 1.8 billion breakfasts in 2020. The decrease reflected the use of USDA pandemic waivers, which allowed schools to serve meals through the Summer Food Service Program.-NAFB

USDA Issues Analysis of School Breakfast Program

After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline climbed ten cents from a week ago, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 22 cents from a month ago but 3.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

The national average diesel price fell 2.7 cents last week and stands at $4.03 per gallon—33 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says the trend is "hardly surprising for this time of year, and will likely continue as the entire nation has now made the first step toward summer gasoline.” After a weekend that saw Saudi Arabia announce an extension of their one million barrel per day production cut, oil prices were seeing slight losses, but remained near the highest level since November.

The most common U.S. gas price encountered by motorists stood at $3.29 per gallon, with the most common diesel price at $3.99 per gallon.

After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline climbed ten cents from a week ago, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 22 cents from a month ago but 3.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.The national average diesel price fell 2.7 cents last week and stands at $4.03 per gallon—33 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says the trend is "hardly surprising for this time of year, and will likely continue as the entire nation has now made the first step toward summer gasoline.” After a weekend that saw Saudi Arabia announce an extension of their one million barrel per day production cut, oil prices were seeing slight losses, but remained near the highest level since November.The most common U.S. gas price encountered by motorists stood at $3.29 per gallon, with the most common diesel price at $3.99 per gallon.-NAFB

Fuel Prices See Double-Digit Increase

The Department of Agriculture over the weekend announced the launch of a new conservation initiative – Working Lands for Wildlife's Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project, as well as the signup dates for USDA's General Enrollment signup in the Conservation Reserve Program, which opens March 4.

Both conservation opportunities give producers tools to conserve wildlife habitat while achieving other conservation benefits, including sequestering carbon and improving water quality and soil health. The Working Lands for Wildlife Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project is a new effort supporting voluntary conservation of private working lands to benefit northern Bobwhite quail and East-Central grasslands conservation.

This is for producers to help the bobwhite and other game and non-game species by managing their working lands for early successional habitat while meeting their lands natural resource and production goals. Producers and landowners interested in either opportunity should contact the FSA and NRCS at their local Service Center.

Those interested in the Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project should contact NRCS to sign up now.

The Department of Agriculture over the weekend announced the launch of a new conservation initiative – Working Lands for Wildlife's Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project, as well as the signup dates for USDA's General Enrollment signup in the Conservation Reserve Program, which opens March 4.Both conservation opportunities give producers tools to conserve wildlife habitat while achieving other conservation benefits, including sequestering carbon and improving water quality and soil health. The Working Lands for Wildlife Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project is a new effort supporting voluntary conservation of private working lands to benefit northern Bobwhite quail and East-Central grasslands conservation.This is for producers to help the bobwhite and other game and non-game species by managing their working lands for early successional habitat while meeting their lands natural resource and production goals. Producers and landowners interested in either opportunity should contact the FSA and NRCS at their local Service Center.Those interested in the Northern Bobwhite Pilot Project should contact NRCS to sign up now.-NAFB

USDA Announced Bobwhite Pilot Project, General CRP Signup

The Iowa delegation of federal lawmakers is asking the Biden administration to issue a waiver authorizing E-15 sales this summer. The letter underscores the geopolitical significance of immediate, uninterrupted access to E-15 and its importance for Iowa drivers and individuals along the ethanol supply chain.

Led by Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, the letter states, "As we expressed to Administrator Regan last week, we remain concerned that delaying implementation until 2025 will have devastating effects." The delegation previously addressed the issue with Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan last week.

In February 2024, the EPA approved a petition Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds filed in 2022 alongside seven other Midwestern states, permitting year-round, nationwide E-15 sales. However, EPA's recent authorization won't take effect until 2025. The letter continues, "We the undersigned urge you to once again issue an emergency waiver to allow for the summertime sale of E-15, extending the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver from June 1 through September 15."

The Iowa delegation of federal lawmakers is asking the Biden administration to issue a waiver authorizing E-15 sales this summer. The letter underscores the geopolitical significance of immediate, uninterrupted access to E-15 and its importance for Iowa drivers and individuals along the ethanol supply chain.Led by Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican, the letter states, "As we expressed to Administrator Regan last week, we remain concerned that delaying implementation until 2025 will have devastating effects." The delegation previously addressed the issue with Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan last week.In February 2024, the EPA approved a petition Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds filed in 2022 alongside seven other Midwestern states, permitting year-round, nationwide E-15 sales. However, EPA's recent authorization won't take effect until 2025. The letter continues, "We the undersigned urge you to once again issue an emergency waiver to allow for the summertime sale of E-15, extending the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver from June 1 through September 15."-NAFB

Iowa Calls on Biden for 2024 E15 Fix

USDA data shows grain and bean sales to overseas buyers rose week-to-week. Export sales of corn in the week ending on February 22 were reported at 1.08 million metric tons, up 32 percent from the previous week but down five percent from the prior four-week average.

The agency says Mexico was the big buyer at 423,700 tons. Exports for the week came in at 1.22 million tons, up 19 percent week-to-week. Wheat sales jumped 40 percent week-to-week and two percent above the average to 327,300 metric tons. Japan took in 88,700 tons. Wheat exports for the week came in at 538,700 tons, up 44 percent from the prior week. Soybean sales totaled 159,700 metric tons, up from a marketing year low of 55,900 tons during the previous week.

That’s still down 30 percent from the prior four-week average. China bought 154,800 tons. Exports dropped eight percent to 1.1 million tons.

USDA data shows grain and bean sales to overseas buyers rose week-to-week. Export sales of corn in the week ending on February 22 were reported at 1.08 million metric tons, up 32 percent from the previous week but down five percent from the prior four-week average.The agency says Mexico was the big buyer at 423,700 tons. Exports for the week came in at 1.22 million tons, up 19 percent week-to-week. Wheat sales jumped 40 percent week-to-week and two percent above the average to 327,300 metric tons. Japan took in 88,700 tons. Wheat exports for the week came in at 538,700 tons, up 44 percent from the prior week. Soybean sales totaled 159,700 metric tons, up from a marketing year low of 55,900 tons during the previous week.That’s still down 30 percent from the prior four-week average. China bought 154,800 tons. Exports dropped eight percent to 1.1 million tons.-NAFB

Export Sales Rise

Secretary Tom Vilsack told Senate Ag members he’s confident the EPA will approve an E15 waiver this summer ahead of the agency’s permanent green light for year-round sales starting next year.

Iowa’s Joni Ernst told Vilsack her state’s ethanol and corn producers and fuel retailers are in the dark on E15 sales this summer after the EPA delayed until next year its permanent fix. But Vilsack responded, the uncertainty could soon end.

“I think it’s consistent with the last two years when they issued a waiver. I could be wrong about this, Senator. I thought it was in the April timeframe. But, whenever it was done last year, I’m sure that they will add the resources and the data necessary to make the decision and have this decision stick.”

Eight Midwest governors petitioned the EPA for permanent year-round E15 sales, but two threatened a lawsuit after the agency dragged out final approval hundreds of days past its statutory deadline.

Separately, Vilsack responded to senators’ concern over California’s Proposition 12 which restricts sales in the state of products from sows, hens, and calves raised in extreme confinement even out of state. The Supreme Court sided with California in a challenge.

“I totally understand why California would want to regulate what happens in the four corners of their state, but I don’t think the Supreme Court when it decided that pork producers had a choice to participate in the California market or not, understood the pork market. When you’re dealing with 12 percent of the pork market in one state, there is not a choice between doing business in California and not in California.”

Secretary Tom Vilsack told Senate Ag members he’s confident the EPA will approve an E15 waiver this summer ahead of the agency’s permanent green light for year-round sales starting next year.Iowa’s Joni Ernst told Vilsack her state’s ethanol and corn producers and fuel retailers are in the dark on E15 sales this summer after the EPA delayed until next year its permanent fix. But Vilsack responded, the uncertainty could soon end.“I think it’s consistent with the last two years when they issued a waiver. I could be wrong about this, Senator. I thought it was in the April timeframe. But, whenever it was done last year, I’m sure that they will add the resources and the data necessary to make the decision and have this decision stick.”Eight Midwest governors petitioned the EPA for permanent year-round E15 sales, but two threatened a lawsuit after the agency dragged out final approval hundreds of days past its statutory deadline.Separately, Vilsack responded to senators’ concern over California’s Proposition 12 which restricts sales in the state of products from sows, hens, and calves raised in extreme confinement even out of state. The Supreme Court sided with California in a challenge.“I totally understand why California would want to regulate what happens in the four corners of their state, but I don’t think the Supreme Court when it decided that pork producers had a choice to participate in the California market or not, understood the pork market. When you’re dealing with 12 percent of the pork market in one state, there is not a choice between doing business in California and not in California.”

Vilsack Confident For E15 This Summer, Criticizes Supreme Court on CA Prop 12

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was unhappy with remarks by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on California’s Prop 12.

ASPCA says Vilsack misrepresented the impacts of California’s Proposition 12 during a Senate Ag Committee hearing.

“It’s alarming to see Secretary Vilsack double down on his inaccurate comments about Proposition 12, furthering industrial animal agriculture’s false narrative about the impact of basic laws that spare animals from cruel confinement in cages and crates,” says Kara Shannon, director of farm animal welfare policy for the ASPCA. “Fifteen states have implemented bans on the extreme confinement of farm animals, representing the will of millions of voters.”

The group also says Senator Cory Booker’s line of questioning during the hearing aptly pointed out this isn’t just an animal welfare issue. It’s also a democracy issue. “We strongly condemn the Secretary’s comments suggesting Congress attempt to undo these critical laws,” the ASPCA says.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was unhappy with remarks by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on California’s Prop 12.ASPCA says Vilsack misrepresented the impacts of California’s Proposition 12 during a Senate Ag Committee hearing.“It’s alarming to see Secretary Vilsack double down on his inaccurate comments about Proposition 12, furthering industrial animal agriculture’s false narrative about the impact of basic laws that spare animals from cruel confinement in cages and crates,” says Kara Shannon, director of farm animal welfare policy for the ASPCA. “Fifteen states have implemented bans on the extreme confinement of farm animals, representing the will of millions of voters.”The group also says Senator Cory Booker’s line of questioning during the hearing aptly pointed out this isn’t just an animal welfare issue. It’s also a democracy issue. “We strongly condemn the Secretary’s comments suggesting Congress attempt to undo these critical laws,” the ASPCA says.-NAFB

ASPCA Unhappy with Vilsack’s Comments on Prop 12

Saying U.S. farmers depend on the strong demand that comes with expanded market access, the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress passed a consensus statement on trade.

The statement encourages federal officials to pursue trade opportunities and invest in foreign market development to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in corn production and trade.&nbsp; “Building demand for U.S. corn is a top priority for NCGA and its state affiliates,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “International markets are crucial to the overall demand for U.S. corn, and actions restricting access to foreign markets will hurt both U.S. farmers and the broader U.S. economy.”

The consensus statement says, “Whereas market access is critical for U.S. farmers to be successful and support the nation’s economy, we support improved market access, including the reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers, so U.S. corn growers have many opportunities to increase demand from foreign trading partners.”

Saying U.S. farmers depend on the strong demand that comes with expanded market access, the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress passed a consensus statement on trade.The statement encourages federal officials to pursue trade opportunities and invest in foreign market development to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in corn production and trade.&nbsp; “Building demand for U.S. corn is a top priority for NCGA and its state affiliates,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “International markets are crucial to the overall demand for U.S. corn, and actions restricting access to foreign markets will hurt both U.S. farmers and the broader U.S. economy.”The consensus statement says, “Whereas market access is critical for U.S. farmers to be successful and support the nation’s economy, we support improved market access, including the reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers, so U.S. corn growers have many opportunities to increase demand from foreign trading partners.”-NAFB

Corn Congress Wants Expanded Access to Foreign Markets

The USDA says the number of U.S. farms has fallen under two million for the first time since before the Civil War. The numbers come from the 2022 Census of Agriculture. In 2022, there were 1,900,487 farms in the country, a seven percent decline from the level in the 2017 Census.

A farm is defined as an establishment that produced or sold or would have sold in normal conditions, at least $1,000 in agricultural production in a year. The latest Census also reported that the total U.S. land in farms declined 2.2 percent to 880 million acres in 2022. This decline, when combined with the higher proportional decline in the number of farms, meant that the average farm size increased by five percent to 463 acres per farm.

The Census of Agriculture, conducted every five years by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, includes producer responses to questions about their farming operations.

The USDA says the number of U.S. farms has fallen under two million for the first time since before the Civil War. The numbers come from the 2022 Census of Agriculture. In 2022, there were 1,900,487 farms in the country, a seven percent decline from the level in the 2017 Census.A farm is defined as an establishment that produced or sold or would have sold in normal conditions, at least $1,000 in agricultural production in a year. The latest Census also reported that the total U.S. land in farms declined 2.2 percent to 880 million acres in 2022. This decline, when combined with the higher proportional decline in the number of farms, meant that the average farm size increased by five percent to 463 acres per farm.The Census of Agriculture, conducted every five years by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, includes producer responses to questions about their farming operations.-NAFB

Number of U.S. Farms Falls Below Two Million

Senate Ag leaders dug in further on farm bill differences at a USDA oversight hearing with Secretary Tom Vilsack this week. Vilsack hinted at the deep policy differences dividing Senate Ag lawmakers when he quoted USDA’s founder, President Abraham Lincoln.

“A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

And with the Lincoln quote made the unspoken point--stubborn partisan differences could force another one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill. Politico quoted retiring Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow at a recent White House event that she’d sooner stick with the 2018 bill than leave a legacy of climate and SNAP cuts. And at the latest hearing.

“The bipartisan evaluation of SNAP that we directed in the 2018 farm bill, after 50-years of the program, resulted in just an additional dollar-40 per day per person, bringing benefits to about six dollars a day to help folks put food on the table. But this was enough to lift one million children out of poverty.”

But from top Ag Republican John Boozman has a different focus – the need to boost the farm safety net with SNAP and climate savings.

“What I’ve heard from our nation’s farmers is they’re very concerned. Specifically, they’re challenged by persistently high and historic inflation, stubbornly high interest rates, burdensome regulations, record high trade deficits in agriculture, and most importantly of all, rapidly declining commodity prices and farm incomes that will make the next five years some of the most challenging in their lives.”

Citing a record 80 billion dollar drop in net farm income since 2022. Vilsack claimed net cash income hit a record the last three years with falling joblessness and rural poverty and argued new revenue streams, not just a new farm bill, are needed.

“That’s why we’re focused at USDA on more, new, and better markets, on climate-smart agriculture, on renewable energy, and on local and regional food systems.”

Vilsack committed only to work with lawmakers to boost crop supports possibly with CCC funds, but on SNAP, defended USDA’s updating benefits in 2022, while adding that costs could come down with declining enrollments.

Senate Ag leaders dug in further on farm bill differences at a USDA oversight hearing with Secretary Tom Vilsack this week. Vilsack hinted at the deep policy differences dividing Senate Ag lawmakers when he quoted USDA’s founder, President Abraham Lincoln.“A house divided against itself cannot stand.”And with the Lincoln quote made the unspoken point--stubborn partisan differences could force another one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill. Politico quoted retiring Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow at a recent White House event that she’d sooner stick with the 2018 bill than leave a legacy of climate and SNAP cuts. And at the latest hearing.“The bipartisan evaluation of SNAP that we directed in the 2018 farm bill, after 50-years of the program, resulted in just an additional dollar-40 per day per person, bringing benefits to about six dollars a day to help folks put food on the table. But this was enough to lift one million children out of poverty.”But from top Ag Republican John Boozman has a different focus – the need to boost the farm safety net with SNAP and climate savings.“What I’ve heard from our nation’s farmers is they’re very concerned. Specifically, they’re challenged by persistently high and historic inflation, stubbornly high interest rates, burdensome regulations, record high trade deficits in agriculture, and most importantly of all, rapidly declining commodity prices and farm incomes that will make the next five years some of the most challenging in their lives.”Citing a record 80 billion dollar drop in net farm income since 2022. Vilsack claimed net cash income hit a record the last three years with falling joblessness and rural poverty and argued new revenue streams, not just a new farm bill, are needed.“That’s why we’re focused at USDA on more, new, and better markets, on climate-smart agriculture, on renewable energy, and on local and regional food systems.”Vilsack committed only to work with lawmakers to boost crop supports possibly with CCC funds, but on SNAP, defended USDA’s updating benefits in 2022, while adding that costs could come down with declining enrollments.-NAFB

Senate Ag Leaders Dig In Further on Farm Bill Differences

The National Pork Producers Council commended the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service for extending the New Swine Inspection System line speed trials through January 15, 2025.

Processing facilities will enroll in a modified time-limited trial, which includes a study to evaluate the impact of increased line speeds on worker safety.

“We appreciate USDA and FSIS for listening to the pork industry and taking another step toward making increased line speeds permanent,” says NPPC President Scott Hays. “These actions give pork producers more certainty in an uncertain time.”

NPPC has advocated for increased line speeds since 2019, and in 2021, FSIS permitted increased line speeds at six pork packing plants while also gathering data to evaluate potential worker impacts. Industry economists say producers could have incurred an additional loss of almost $10 a head early this year without the increase in line speeds and the resulting decrease in processing capacity.

The National Pork Producers Council commended the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service for extending the New Swine Inspection System line speed trials through January 15, 2025.Processing facilities will enroll in a modified time-limited trial, which includes a study to evaluate the impact of increased line speeds on worker safety.“We appreciate USDA and FSIS for listening to the pork industry and taking another step toward making increased line speeds permanent,” says NPPC President Scott Hays. “These actions give pork producers more certainty in an uncertain time.”NPPC has advocated for increased line speeds since 2019, and in 2021, FSIS permitted increased line speeds at six pork packing plants while also gathering data to evaluate potential worker impacts. Industry economists say producers could have incurred an additional loss of almost $10 a head early this year without the increase in line speeds and the resulting decrease in processing capacity.-NAFB

NPPC Applauds Line Speed Expansion

The National FFA Organization developed the Next Gen Conference to give students from around the country an opportunity to explore a variety of career paths before high school graduation.

Next Gen Conferences go in-depth in a different subset of the more than 350 careers in agriculture each year. This year’s Next Gen Conference is March 5-8 in Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas. The Next Gen Conference: Agricultural Communications will engage high school students in hands-on sessions, round tables, and tours to explore emerging trends, issues, and opportunities in the field of agricultural communications. During the conference, students will also develop a road map that will serve as a blueprint to guide them in taking their next steps after high school graduation.

“This conference will help us cultivate future leaders in the communications industry through a week of experiential learning, relevant education, and networking,” says Ashli Weinrich, program specialist for the National FFA Organization.

The National FFA Organization developed the Next Gen Conference to give students from around the country an opportunity to explore a variety of career paths before high school graduation.Next Gen Conferences go in-depth in a different subset of the more than 350 careers in agriculture each year. This year’s Next Gen Conference is March 5-8 in Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas. The Next Gen Conference: Agricultural Communications will engage high school students in hands-on sessions, round tables, and tours to explore emerging trends, issues, and opportunities in the field of agricultural communications. During the conference, students will also develop a road map that will serve as a blueprint to guide them in taking their next steps after high school graduation.“This conference will help us cultivate future leaders in the communications industry through a week of experiential learning, relevant education, and networking,” says Ashli Weinrich, program specialist for the National FFA Organization.-NAFB

FFA Next Gen Conference in March

Alltech is proud to continue partnering with the “Women in Food &amp; Agriculture Program.” Applications are open for new mentors of either gender and for female mentees from across the global food and agriculture sector.

Now in its fourth year, the free-to-join program is dedicated to supporting women across the global food and agriculture sector by providing invaluable mentorship opportunities. It’s become a beacon of support for women seeking guidance, advice, and networking opportunities in their careers. Surveys suggest one of the biggest hurdles to success for women in the global agri-food industry is a lack of mentorship opportunities.

WFA matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include mentor gender, areas of expertise, language, and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. To date, the program has facilitated 562 pairings, connecting mentees with experienced mentors.

For more information go to wfa-initiative.com.

Alltech is proud to continue partnering with the “Women in Food &amp; Agriculture Program.” Applications are open for new mentors of either gender and for female mentees from across the global food and agriculture sector.Now in its fourth year, the free-to-join program is dedicated to supporting women across the global food and agriculture sector by providing invaluable mentorship opportunities. It’s become a beacon of support for women seeking guidance, advice, and networking opportunities in their careers. Surveys suggest one of the biggest hurdles to success for women in the global agri-food industry is a lack of mentorship opportunities.WFA matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include mentor gender, areas of expertise, language, and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. To date, the program has facilitated 562 pairings, connecting mentees with experienced mentors.For more information go to wfa-initiative.com.-NAFB

Mentorship Program for Women in Food and Agriculture

A new resource developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CattleFax helps producers maximize profitability from their culling decisions. The resource is called “Right Way, Right Time – A Guide to Cull Cattle Management” and is now available at ncba.org.

With effective planning, cull cattle can be a significant source of revenue and should not be overlooked. Cull cattle are market cattle. The document addresses key problem areas, provides strategies for making timely culling decisions to prioritize animal welfare, and is designed to help producers capture more value through effective cull cattle management.

“Cull animals can contribute significantly to the profitability of the ranch,” says Dr. Trey Patterson, president of the Padlock Ranch Company. “We spend extensive time and money adding replacement cattle to our herd, so it’s imperative that we capture good value for cull cattle to offset the other expenses.”

For more information or to access the resource online, visit ncba.org/producers.

A new resource developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CattleFax helps producers maximize profitability from their culling decisions. The resource is called “Right Way, Right Time – A Guide to Cull Cattle Management” and is now available at ncba.org.With effective planning, cull cattle can be a significant source of revenue and should not be overlooked. Cull cattle are market cattle. The document addresses key problem areas, provides strategies for making timely culling decisions to prioritize animal welfare, and is designed to help producers capture more value through effective cull cattle management.“Cull animals can contribute significantly to the profitability of the ranch,” says Dr. Trey Patterson, president of the Padlock Ranch Company. “We spend extensive time and money adding replacement cattle to our herd, so it’s imperative that we capture good value for cull cattle to offset the other expenses.”For more information or to access the resource online, visit ncba.org/producers.-NAFB

New Resource for Maximizing Cattle Profitability

Ethanol backers are once again urging President Biden to grant a summertime waiver for E15 sales after the EPA delayed until next year the effective date of its permanent sales okay in eight Midwest states.

“If this is within the law, 2025 into the future, then what in the heck, why wouldn’t the president do it for 2024?

And Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley complains another E15 summertime waiver wouldn’t be needed if EPA hadn’t dragged its feet until the states started court action.

“The possibility of court action, and how specific the legislation is saying that the governors have that authority, I think EPA finally and belatedly agreed.”

The Renewable Fuels Association accused EPA of “foot-dragging” for more than 500 days after the deadline to act on the governors’ request and now claims there’s not enough time to act for this summer.

Meantime, lawmakers from Illinois to Minnesota and Nebraska to North Dakota have offered a permanent legislative fix for year-round sales of higher ethanol blends. But RFA complains that some East Coast refiners and their Senate allies oppose the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act that its backers argue would reduce emissions and fuel prices.

Ethanol producers also see higher blends as a way to offset falling fuel demand as more electric vehicles are sold over time.

Ethanol backers are once again urging President Biden to grant a summertime waiver for E15 sales after the EPA delayed until next year the effective date of its permanent sales okay in eight Midwest states.The frustration is obvious.“If this is within the law, 2025 into the future, then what in the heck, why wouldn’t the president do it for 2024?And Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley complains another E15 summertime waiver wouldn’t be needed if EPA hadn’t dragged its feet until the states started court action.“The possibility of court action, and how specific the legislation is saying that the governors have that authority, I think EPA finally and belatedly agreed.”The Renewable Fuels Association accused EPA of “foot-dragging” for more than 500 days after the deadline to act on the governors’ request and now claims there’s not enough time to act for this summer.Meantime, lawmakers from Illinois to Minnesota and Nebraska to North Dakota have offered a permanent legislative fix for year-round sales of higher ethanol blends. But RFA complains that some East Coast refiners and their Senate allies oppose the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act that its backers argue would reduce emissions and fuel prices.Ethanol producers also see higher blends as a way to offset falling fuel demand as more electric vehicles are sold over time.-NAFB

Ethanol Backers Urge E15 Summertime Waiver Again Ahead of ’25 Permanent Ok

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will host a webinar on March 7 at noon, eastern time, for U.S. poultry growers. The webinar will allow the agency to share information regarding the “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule.”

Attendees may submit questions in advance at the usda.gov website. Questions will also be taken during the webinar. USDA published the final rule in the Federal Register on November 28, 2023, and it became effective on February 12, 2024. The rule requires Live Poultry Dealers, which are typically large processing companies, to provide poultry growers with whom they contract to raise birds with key information about the terms of their agreements.

It also requires additional disclosures by live poultry dealers engaged in the production of broilers who use poultry grower ranking systems to determine settlement payments for broiler growers.

More information can be found on the AMS website at ams.usda.gov.

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will host a webinar on March 7 at noon, eastern time, for U.S. poultry growers. The webinar will allow the agency to share information regarding the “Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule.”Attendees may submit questions in advance at the usda.gov website. Questions will also be taken during the webinar. USDA published the final rule in the Federal Register on November 28, 2023, and it became effective on February 12, 2024. The rule requires Live Poultry Dealers, which are typically large processing companies, to provide poultry growers with whom they contract to raise birds with key information about the terms of their agreements.It also requires additional disclosures by live poultry dealers engaged in the production of broilers who use poultry grower ranking systems to determine settlement payments for broiler growers.More information can be found on the AMS website at ams.usda.gov.-NAFB

USDA Webinar on Contracting and Tournaments Final Rule

Not one but two tracts of farmland in Sioux County, Iowa, sold for a near-record $29,600 per acre in a public auction this week. In November 2022, a sale of 73.19 acres in the same county sold for the current state record of $30,000 per acre.

A spokesman for Zomer Company Realty and Auction confirmed the Ken and LaDonna Huisman farmland sale totaled 117.41 acres on February 27. The first tract of land was made up of 40 acres and featured half-mile-long rows. With a road and ditch on only one side of the field, 98.7 percent of the tract is tillable. Tract number two is 77.41 acres that are also bordered by one road and is 98.7 percent tillable with half-mile-long rows.

Both tracts are subject to a signed easement with the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project. The buyer will receive the crop damage payments from Summit at closing.

Not one but two tracts of farmland in Sioux County, Iowa, sold for a near-record $29,600 per acre in a public auction this week. In November 2022, a sale of 73.19 acres in the same county sold for the current state record of $30,000 per acre.A spokesman for Zomer Company Realty and Auction confirmed the Ken and LaDonna Huisman farmland sale totaled 117.41 acres on February 27. The first tract of land was made up of 40 acres and featured half-mile-long rows. With a road and ditch on only one side of the field, 98.7 percent of the tract is tillable. Tract number two is 77.41 acres that are also bordered by one road and is 98.7 percent tillable with half-mile-long rows.Both tracts are subject to a signed easement with the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project. The buyer will receive the crop damage payments from Summit at closing.-NAFB

Iowa Farmland Sells for a Near-Record Amount

Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan “Renewable Fuels for Ocean-Going Vessels Act.” It will help open new markets for U.S. farmers by encouraging the use of biofuels using homegrown farm products for ships and ocean-going vessels.

It will specifically expand markets for American-made biofuels by ensuring that renewable fuels used in ocean-going vessels would be eligible for a renewable fuel credit available for other biofuels. The legislation preserves Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard program when the fuel is used in oceangoing vessels.

The RFS currently excludes “fuels used in ocean-going vessels” from the definition of transportation fuels and from refiners’ and blenders’ obligations. Refiners and blenders are required to retire RINs from any biodiesel and renewable diesel used in vessels with Class 3 engines operating in international waters, including the Great Lakes.

The bill is widely supported by multiple agricultural groups.

Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan “Renewable Fuels for Ocean-Going Vessels Act.” It will help open new markets for U.S. farmers by encouraging the use of biofuels using homegrown farm products for ships and ocean-going vessels.It will specifically expand markets for American-made biofuels by ensuring that renewable fuels used in ocean-going vessels would be eligible for a renewable fuel credit available for other biofuels. The legislation preserves Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard program when the fuel is used in oceangoing vessels.The RFS currently excludes “fuels used in ocean-going vessels” from the definition of transportation fuels and from refiners’ and blenders’ obligations. Refiners and blenders are required to retire RINs from any biodiesel and renewable diesel used in vessels with Class 3 engines operating in international waters, including the Great Lakes.The bill is widely supported by multiple agricultural groups.-NAFB

Bill Further Expands Future Biofuel Usage

For the first time, Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow says she’ll push a new farm bill further into the future rather than strike a deal with Republicans on SNAP and climate spending changes.

The Fence Post says she won’t agree to limit any updates to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or cut any climate-smart conservation money in the Inflation Reduction Act.

“I’m not going to do it,” she says. “If that means we continue the policies of the 2018 Farm Bill, which were pretty good if I do say so myself, then that’s okay.”

Stabenow sat next to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack during an event at the White House this week, and he said, “You’re tough. That’s great.” Stabenow has said privately for months that her legacy depends on protecting climate funding as well as not cutting anti-hunger programs.

The current farm bill authorization expires at the end of September.

For the first time, Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow says she’ll push a new farm bill further into the future rather than strike a deal with Republicans on SNAP and climate spending changes.The Fence Post says she won’t agree to limit any updates to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or cut any climate-smart conservation money in the Inflation Reduction Act.“I’m not going to do it,” she says. “If that means we continue the policies of the 2018 Farm Bill, which were pretty good if I do say so myself, then that’s okay.”Stabenow sat next to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack during an event at the White House this week, and he said, “You’re tough. That’s great.” Stabenow has said privately for months that her legacy depends on protecting climate funding as well as not cutting anti-hunger programs.The current farm bill authorization expires at the end of September.-NAFB

Stabenow: No New Farm Bill Without SNAP, Climate Funds

Farming activities in the United States accounted for 10.6 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service.

New data released this week shows that from 2020 to 2021, agricultural greenhouse gas emissions remained nearly constant but decreased from 11.1 percent to 10.6 percent as a share of total U.S. emissions because of changes in other industries. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that in 2021, agriculture emitted 312.6 million metric tons as nitrous oxide, 278.4 million metric tons as methane, 44.7 million metric tons as on-farm carbon dioxide, and 35.7 million metric tons emitted indirectly through the electricity that the agricultural sector uses.

Of the common economic sectors in the United States, industry accounted for the largest portion of total greenhouse gas emissions at 30.1 percent, followed by transportation, commercial, residential and agriculture. Total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021 were 2.3 percent lower than in 1990.

Farming activities in the United States accounted for 10.6 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service.New data released this week shows that from 2020 to 2021, agricultural greenhouse gas emissions remained nearly constant but decreased from 11.1 percent to 10.6 percent as a share of total U.S. emissions because of changes in other industries. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that in 2021, agriculture emitted 312.6 million metric tons as nitrous oxide, 278.4 million metric tons as methane, 44.7 million metric tons as on-farm carbon dioxide, and 35.7 million metric tons emitted indirectly through the electricity that the agricultural sector uses.Of the common economic sectors in the United States, industry accounted for the largest portion of total greenhouse gas emissions at 30.1 percent, followed by transportation, commercial, residential and agriculture. Total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2021 were 2.3 percent lower than in 1990.-NAFB

Ag Accounted for 10% of 2021 U.S. GHG Emissions

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday published the Intent to Establish the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program report.

Authorized under the Growing Climate Solutions Act, the report explains how the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program will facilitate farmer, rancher, and private forest landowner participation in voluntary carbon markets.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “This new program will provide resources for producers and landowners, helping them pursue opportunities to generate revenue while benefiting the environment.”

The report justifies the Secretary's intent to establish the program following an earlier publication, which found that voluntary carbon markets offer a promising tool to achieve greenhouse gas reductions from the agriculture and forest sectors and support producer livelihoods. USDA will work towards formal establishment of the program in 2024.

As a first step, USDA will soon solicit information on protocols to be evaluated for inclusion in the list to be published as part of the program.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday published the Intent to Establish the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program report.Authorized under the Growing Climate Solutions Act, the report explains how the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program will facilitate farmer, rancher, and private forest landowner participation in voluntary carbon markets.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “This new program will provide resources for producers and landowners, helping them pursue opportunities to generate revenue while benefiting the environment.”The report justifies the Secretary's intent to establish the program following an earlier publication, which found that voluntary carbon markets offer a promising tool to achieve greenhouse gas reductions from the agriculture and forest sectors and support producer livelihoods. USDA will work towards formal establishment of the program in 2024.As a first step, USDA will soon solicit information on protocols to be evaluated for inclusion in the list to be published as part of the program.-NAFB

USDA Announces Progress on Newly Authorized Climate Programs

The U-S Senate Agriculture Committee will hold an oversight hearing Wednesday on the U-S-D-A at which U-S Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack is scheduled to testify.

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says one key focus of the hearing will be on how to prompt Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to get moving on a vital piece of legislation that's especially significant for Iowa.

&nbsp;"The line of questioning is going to go along the lines of what we can do to get a Farm Bill passed," Grassley says, "and what he's doing to encourage Schumer to bring a Farm Bill up and I'm sure he's going to open with that very subject."

Typically updated every five years, a new Farm Bill didn't materialize last year, and Congress passed a one-year extension which will last through this fall. Grassley says Vilsack, a former Iowa governor, knows how crucial the legislation is for Iowa's farmers and the state's economy.

&nbsp;"I don't know whether he can do much about it," Grassley says, "but his voice is very important in encouraging the president to get Schumer to bring up the Farm Bill."

Grassley says he also wants to question Vilsack about the Commodity Credit Corporation. Grassley, a Republican, says the agency is being used as a "slush fund" to pay for a lot of things of which Congress didn't approve.

&nbsp;"The original legislation setting up the Commodity Credit Corporation is loosely written," Grassley says, "and I'm sorry to say that not only this secretary of agriculture has abused it, but the Trump secretary of agriculture, abused it as well, as well as President Trump even abusing it."

The C-C-C was created in the 1930s and is designed to stabilize, support, and protect farm income and prices. Grassley co-sponsored a bill last year, saying the corporation was "at risk of becoming a slush fund for politically-driven pet projects." He says the U-S-D-A Spending Accountability Act would save some eight-billion dollars over ten years.

The U-S Senate Agriculture Committee will hold an oversight hearing Wednesday on the U-S-D-A at which U-S Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack is scheduled to testify.Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says one key focus of the hearing will be on how to prompt Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to get moving on a vital piece of legislation that's especially significant for Iowa.&nbsp;"The line of questioning is going to go along the lines of what we can do to get a Farm Bill passed," Grassley says, "and what he's doing to encourage Schumer to bring a Farm Bill up and I'm sure he's going to open with that very subject."Typically updated every five years, a new Farm Bill didn't materialize last year, and Congress passed a one-year extension which will last through this fall. Grassley says Vilsack, a former Iowa governor, knows how crucial the legislation is for Iowa's farmers and the state's economy.&nbsp;"I don't know whether he can do much about it," Grassley says, "but his voice is very important in encouraging the president to get Schumer to bring up the Farm Bill."Grassley says he also wants to question Vilsack about the Commodity Credit Corporation. Grassley, a Republican, says the agency is being used as a "slush fund" to pay for a lot of things of which Congress didn't approve.&nbsp;"The original legislation setting up the Commodity Credit Corporation is loosely written," Grassley says, "and I'm sorry to say that not only this secretary of agriculture has abused it, but the Trump secretary of agriculture, abused it as well, as well as President Trump even abusing it."The C-C-C was created in the 1930s and is designed to stabilize, support, and protect farm income and prices. Grassley co-sponsored a bill last year, saying the corporation was "at risk of becoming a slush fund for politically-driven pet projects." He says the U-S-D-A Spending Accountability Act would save some eight-billion dollars over ten years.-Radio Iowa