Food-insecure households have difficulty providing enough food for their members because they lack resources. USDA’s Economic Research Service monitors the extent of food insecurity in U.S. households at the national and state levels through an annual U.S. Census Bureau Survey. 

State-level estimates are obtained by averaging three years of data to generate a larger sample size in each state. This provides more precise estimates and more ability to detect differences across states. The national three-year average (2020-2022) was 11.2 percent of American households classified as food insecure. 

Of that 11.2 percent, findings ranged from 6.2 percent in New Hampshire to 16.6 percent in Alaska. Food insecurity was statistically significantly higher than the national average in six states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. The prevalence of food insecurity was statistically significantly lower in 17 states, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and many others.

Food-insecure households have difficulty providing enough food for their members because they lack resources. USDA’s Economic Research Service monitors the extent of food insecurity in U.S. households at the national and state levels through an annual U.S. Census Bureau Survey. State-level estimates are obtained by averaging three years of data to generate a larger sample size in each state. This provides more precise estimates and more ability to detect differences across states. The national three-year average (2020-2022) was 11.2 percent of American households classified as food insecure. Of that 11.2 percent, findings ranged from 6.2 percent in New Hampshire to 16.6 percent in Alaska. Food insecurity was statistically significantly higher than the national average in six states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. The prevalence of food insecurity was statistically significantly lower in 17 states, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and many others.- NAFB

Eleven percent of Americans are food insecure

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency was forced to suspend rail operations at key points into and out of Mexico. The move is to help alleviate the sharp increase in illegal immigration at the border. 

These actions affect U.S. corn and barley shipments, two commodities the U.S. Grains Council represents. The CBP is working with the Mexican government to remedy the situation as quickly as possible, but there’s no timeline for returning to normal operations. “The North American trading system relies on interconnectedness, and any disruption affects Mexican and U.S. Commodities,” says USGC Chair Ryan LeGrand. “It’s vital the situation gets resolved in a timely manner.” 

A letter from the NCGA says, “We are aware of trains sitting at origin in at least six states that are unable to move, and we expect that number to grow. Mexican customers are telling U.S. shippers that they’ll soon consider other suppliers.”

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency was forced to suspend rail operations at key points into and out of Mexico. The move is to help alleviate the sharp increase in illegal immigration at the border. These actions affect U.S. corn and barley shipments, two commodities the U.S. Grains Council represents. The CBP is working with the Mexican government to remedy the situation as quickly as possible, but there’s no timeline for returning to normal operations. “The North American trading system relies on interconnectedness, and any disruption affects Mexican and U.S. Commodities,” says USGC Chair Ryan LeGrand. “It’s vital the situation gets resolved in a timely manner.” A letter from the NCGA says, “We are aware of trains sitting at origin in at least six states that are unable to move, and we expect that number to grow. Mexican customers are telling U.S. shippers that they’ll soon consider other suppliers.”- NAFB

Ag groups respond to rail suspension at U.S.-Mexico border

Hundreds of ranchers in Colorado are worried about several wolves that were airlifted into the state and released this week. 

Wolves were eradicated from Colorado in the 1940s. After three years and dozens of public hearing disagreements, the first handful of wolves were moved from Oregon into Colorado. “Just watching an animal leave the crate and run up the hillside is a majestic site,” says Eric Odell, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Species Conservation Manager. Many ranchers spent a lot of time in the Colorado statehouse fighting the wolf releases and in a federal courtroom last week. 

Several ranchers who spoke with public broadcasting in the state have gone shopping for the biggest guard dogs they can find. It’s not just farmers and ranchers objecting to the release, either. Tourism directors in several towns are worried and point out it’s another predator to watch out for with children and small animals.

Hundreds of ranchers in Colorado are worried about several wolves that were airlifted into the state and released this week. Wolves were eradicated from Colorado in the 1940s. After three years and dozens of public hearing disagreements, the first handful of wolves were moved from Oregon into Colorado. “Just watching an animal leave the crate and run up the hillside is a majestic site,” says Eric Odell, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Species Conservation Manager. Many ranchers spent a lot of time in the Colorado statehouse fighting the wolf releases and in a federal courtroom last week. Several ranchers who spoke with public broadcasting in the state have gone shopping for the biggest guard dogs they can find. It’s not just farmers and ranchers objecting to the release, either. Tourism directors in several towns are worried and point out it’s another predator to watch out for with children and small animals.- NAFB

Wolves reintroduced in Colorado over ranching objections

Work is being done on the steps to advance the American Climate Corps, a landmark initiative announced by the President earlier this year. The initiative will train the next generation of clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience workers while putting them on a path to good-paying union jobs. 

As part of that commitment, seven federal agencies entered into a Memorandum of Understanding that will serve as a blueprint for the multi-agency program. The MOU lays out the mission, goals, priorities, and the next steps in implementing the American Climate Corps. Beginning in January, senior administration officials will also convene a series of virtual listening sessions to hear directly from prospective American Climate Corps applicants and implementing partners. 

Those partners can include labor unions, educational institutions, employer partners, and state, local, and tribal governments. Within the first three weeks of launching the Corps, over 40,000 people expressed an interest in joining it.

Work is being done on the steps to advance the American Climate Corps, a landmark initiative announced by the President earlier this year. The initiative will train the next generation of clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience workers while putting them on a path to good-paying union jobs. As part of that commitment, seven federal agencies entered into a Memorandum of Understanding that will serve as a blueprint for the multi-agency program. The MOU lays out the mission, goals, priorities, and the next steps in implementing the American Climate Corps. Beginning in January, senior administration officials will also convene a series of virtual listening sessions to hear directly from prospective American Climate Corps applicants and implementing partners. Those partners can include labor unions, educational institutions, employer partners, and state, local, and tribal governments. Within the first three weeks of launching the Corps, over 40,000 people expressed an interest in joining it.- NAFB

MOU on establishing climate corps

Agribusiness mergers have been a concern for agriculture because they cut down on competition and lead to higher prices for things like inputs. 

The Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission issued the 2023 Merger Guidelines describing the factors and frameworks the agencies utilize when reviewing mergers and acquisitions. The new guidelines were released after a two-year process of public engagement and reflect modern market realities and the experience of participants in the marketplace. “These finalized guidelines provide transparency into how the Justice Department is protecting the American people from ways in which unlawful, anticompetitive practices manifest themselves in the modern economy,” says Attorney General Merrick Garland. 

The department also says that competitive markets and economic opportunity for all Americans go hand in hand. Garland was grateful to hear from authors, nurses, farmers, and other concerned citizens from across the country. “Merger enforcement will be better as a result,” he said.&nbsp;

Agribusiness mergers have been a concern for agriculture because they cut down on competition and lead to higher prices for things like inputs. The Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission issued the 2023 Merger Guidelines describing the factors and frameworks the agencies utilize when reviewing mergers and acquisitions. The new guidelines were released after a two-year process of public engagement and reflect modern market realities and the experience of participants in the marketplace. “These finalized guidelines provide transparency into how the Justice Department is protecting the American people from ways in which unlawful, anticompetitive practices manifest themselves in the modern economy,” says Attorney General Merrick Garland. The department also says that competitive markets and economic opportunity for all Americans go hand in hand. Garland was grateful to hear from authors, nurses, farmers, and other concerned citizens from across the country. “Merger enforcement will be better as a result,” he said.&nbsp;- NAFB

Justice Department, FTC approve 2023 merger guidelines

The National Corn Growers Association praised an EPA decision that advances the request of several governors to allow their states to sell E15 year-round to the Office of Management and Budget. 

The move now puts eight Midwestern states closer to year-round access to fuel with a 15 percent ethanol blend. “Allowing consumers to access higher blends of ethanol year-round will play a critical role in helping the country meet its ambitious climate goals,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says it’s a welcome step forward for farmers and drivers across the Midwest. 

“We’re grateful to the governors of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin for pushing for uninterrupted access to E15,” she says. The request has been in limbo after the oil industry warned the administration that allowing E15 sales in select states would cause supply chain issues and higher gasoline prices.

The National Corn Growers Association praised an EPA decision that advances the request of several governors to allow their states to sell E15 year-round to the Office of Management and Budget. The move now puts eight Midwestern states closer to year-round access to fuel with a 15 percent ethanol blend. “Allowing consumers to access higher blends of ethanol year-round will play a critical role in helping the country meet its ambitious climate goals,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says it’s a welcome step forward for farmers and drivers across the Midwest. “We’re grateful to the governors of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin for pushing for uninterrupted access to E15,” she says. The request has been in limbo after the oil industry warned the administration that allowing E15 sales in select states would cause supply chain issues and higher gasoline prices.- NAFB

Movement on unrestricted E15 sales

Brazil’s farmers are running into difficulty ahead of their upcoming corn planting season. Reuters says drought is causing farmers in the South American country to slow their fertilizer purchases. 

Corn is one of the most fertilizer-intensive crops, and the fertilizer slowdown is likely to dent sales in Brazil, the world’s top corn exporter. Brazil’s soybean harvest is already slowed, which may push planting back for the main corn crop that follows it early next year. Brazil’s farmers typically plant less corn when they miss the ideal planting window in January or February. 

Fertilizer companies are already dealing with lower profits as crop and fertilizer prices continue to sag after they peaked during the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. U.S.-based fertilizer supplier Mosaic expects Brazil’s second-corn crop production to fall by 12 percent or 12.7 million metric tons. That’s higher than the Brazilian government’s estimate of an 11.1-million-ton drop from last year.

Brazil’s farmers are running into difficulty ahead of their upcoming corn planting season. Reuters says drought is causing farmers in the South American country to slow their fertilizer purchases. Corn is one of the most fertilizer-intensive crops, and the fertilizer slowdown is likely to dent sales in Brazil, the world’s top corn exporter. Brazil’s soybean harvest is already slowed, which may push planting back for the main corn crop that follows it early next year. Brazil’s farmers typically plant less corn when they miss the ideal planting window in January or February. Fertilizer companies are already dealing with lower profits as crop and fertilizer prices continue to sag after they peaked during the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. U.S.-based fertilizer supplier Mosaic expects Brazil’s second-corn crop production to fall by 12 percent or 12.7 million metric tons. That’s higher than the Brazilian government’s estimate of an 11.1-million-ton drop from last year.- NAFB

Drought complicating Brazil’s corn planting

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai applauded the European Union’s announcement that it’s extending the suspension of tariffs on U.S. Goods. “For the past two years, the United States and European Union have engaged in critically important negotiations,” Tai said in a statement. 

“Our goal is to negotiate a forward-looking arrangement that will allow us to join forces economically to incentivize fair and clean production and trade in the steel and aluminum sectors.” She points out that challenges remain as two new wars have started and global economic disruptions have continued since the negotiations began in 2021. 

“These are technically complex negotiations and the United States remains committed to our partnership with the EU and to staying at the table to continue the progress we’ve made so far,” Tai adds. “I’m glad the EU has announced that it is taking steps to join us in extending the time for these negotiations.”

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai applauded the European Union’s announcement that it’s extending the suspension of tariffs on U.S. Goods. “For the past two years, the United States and European Union have engaged in critically important negotiations,” Tai said in a statement. “Our goal is to negotiate a forward-looking arrangement that will allow us to join forces economically to incentivize fair and clean production and trade in the steel and aluminum sectors.” She points out that challenges remain as two new wars have started and global economic disruptions have continued since the negotiations began in 2021. “These are technically complex negotiations and the United States remains committed to our partnership with the EU and to staying at the table to continue the progress we’ve made so far,” Tai adds. “I’m glad the EU has announced that it is taking steps to join us in extending the time for these negotiations.”- NAFB

EU will continue tariff suspension on U.S. goods

A group of Midwest governors requested the Biden administration grant them the ability to sell E15 year-round, and that request hasn’t been granted. Lawmakers in both Congressional chambers are pushing for approval. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are demanding the Office of Management and Budget finalize the necessary waiver quickly. 

That would allow retailers time to prepare for summer 2024 sales. The Iowa lawmakers are leading the bicameral push alongside Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN). “This rulemaking should have been completed in July 2022, and unfortunately, we still have no regulatory certainty for our fuel retailers, fuel blenders, or biofuel producers more than 16 months later,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the administration. 

“Homegrown American-produced ethanol strengthens our national security and ensures lower vehicle emissions to achieve the administration’s climate goals.” Lawmakers want the governors’ request finalized quickly to bring much-needed certainty to farmers, retailers, and consumers.

A group of Midwest governors requested the Biden administration grant them the ability to sell E15 year-round, and that request hasn’t been granted. Lawmakers in both Congressional chambers are pushing for approval. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are demanding the Office of Management and Budget finalize the necessary waiver quickly. That would allow retailers time to prepare for summer 2024 sales. The Iowa lawmakers are leading the bicameral push alongside Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN). “This rulemaking should have been completed in July 2022, and unfortunately, we still have no regulatory certainty for our fuel retailers, fuel blenders, or biofuel producers more than 16 months later,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the administration. “Homegrown American-produced ethanol strengthens our national security and ensures lower vehicle emissions to achieve the administration’s climate goals.” Lawmakers want the governors’ request finalized quickly to bring much-needed certainty to farmers, retailers, and consumers.- NAFB

Lawmakers continue pushing for unrestricted E15 sales

The annual Midwest Crops Conference is scheduled for January 2024 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Formerly the “Certified Crops Advisor Conference,” the two-day event targets people looking for Continuing Education Units, including crop advisors, ag industry professionals, and farmers. 

“This workshop will provide in-depth discussion on several topics to help agricultural professionals enhance their crop production recommendations to farmers,” says Denice Ferguson, a member of the conference committee. Researchers and experts in crop production from the University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, and Iowa State University will present up-to-date information from their areas of expertise. 

“Anyone advising or managing an agricultural operation or serving the ag industry knows that research and technology is driving this sector,” Ferguson says. “Advancements in agronomy, pest management, and crop technologies bring improvements to farmers’ yields, efficiency, and risk management.” The conference will offer 15.5 hours of Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop ‘Advisors.

The annual Midwest Crops Conference is scheduled for January 2024 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Formerly the “Certified Crops Advisor Conference,” the two-day event targets people looking for Continuing Education Units, including crop advisors, ag industry professionals, and farmers. “This workshop will provide in-depth discussion on several topics to help agricultural professionals enhance their crop production recommendations to farmers,” says Denice Ferguson, a member of the conference committee. Researchers and experts in crop production from the University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, and Iowa State University will present up-to-date information from their areas of expertise. “Anyone advising or managing an agricultural operation or serving the ag industry knows that research and technology is driving this sector,” Ferguson says. “Advancements in agronomy, pest management, and crop technologies bring improvements to farmers’ yields, efficiency, and risk management.” The conference will offer 15.5 hours of Continuing Education Units for Certified Crop ‘Advisors.- NAFB

Midwest crops conference in January

Despite a drop in key operating costs, Rabobank says contracted margins in 2023 will continue into the new year. Soybean farmers are likely to achieve good margins in the 2024 season, but corn farmers will feel their margins pressured by ample supply. 

Wheat margins are unlikely to see better margins despite declining costs. Trends are indicating that the markets are at a pivotal point. Rabobank says uncertainty rises from factors like record Brazilian crops, more “adequate” crops in the U.S. and Europe, and expectations of another record crop in Brazil in 2024. 

Global domestic demand for key crops declined, which points to building stocks and lower prices. Weather challenges and geopolitical instability coupled with economic uncertainty prompt consideration of a risk premium in the market. Rabobank says corn exhibits the least upside potential, with wheat presenting the highest upside potential. Soybeans likely fall somewhere in between. Volatility is likely in 2024.

Despite a drop in key operating costs, Rabobank says contracted margins in 2023 will continue into the new year. Soybean farmers are likely to achieve good margins in the 2024 season, but corn farmers will feel their margins pressured by ample supply. Wheat margins are unlikely to see better margins despite declining costs. Trends are indicating that the markets are at a pivotal point. Rabobank says uncertainty rises from factors like record Brazilian crops, more “adequate” crops in the U.S. and Europe, and expectations of another record crop in Brazil in 2024. Global domestic demand for key crops declined, which points to building stocks and lower prices. Weather challenges and geopolitical instability coupled with economic uncertainty prompt consideration of a risk premium in the market. Rabobank says corn exhibits the least upside potential, with wheat presenting the highest upside potential. Soybeans likely fall somewhere in between. Volatility is likely in 2024.- NAFB

Tighter margins ahead in 2024

The USDA says agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year beginning on December 18, and the deadline to complete enrollment and any election changes is March 15, 2024. 

The current farm bill was extended through September 30, 2024, allowing authorized programs like ARC and PLC to continue operating. “It’s business as usual for ARC and PLC implementation for the 2024 crop year,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. 

“These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment.” He also advises producers to avoid the rush and contact their local FSA Office for an appointment because even with no changes in program elections for next year, farmers still need to sign a contract to enroll.

The USDA says agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. Producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year beginning on December 18, and the deadline to complete enrollment and any election changes is March 15, 2024. The current farm bill was extended through September 30, 2024, allowing authorized programs like ARC and PLC to continue operating. “It’s business as usual for ARC and PLC implementation for the 2024 crop year,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “These programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers so don’t delay enrollment.” He also advises producers to avoid the rush and contact their local FSA Office for an appointment because even with no changes in program elections for next year, farmers still need to sign a contract to enroll.- NAFB

ARC and PLC 2024 enrollment is open

The USDA’s December Livestock Outlook says higher cow slaughter and heavier-than-assumed carcass weights will offset lower fed cattle slaughter in the fourth quarter of 2023. 

That will leave the beef production forecast for 2023 unchanged. Expected heavier carcasses will carry over into early 2024 along with higher cow slaughter. Fourth-quarter pork production was raised 25 million pounds to 7.09 billion pounds, 2.4 percent higher than during the same period last year. Hog prices are expected to average $54 per hundredweight for the quarter, 15 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2022. 

First-quarter hog prices are lowered by $1 per hundredweight to $56 as soft consumer pork demand is likely to persist, limiting hog price increases. Lamb and mutton import forecasts are lower in the December report compared to the previous month. In poultry, projected broiler production is adjusted higher for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October.

The USDA’s December Livestock Outlook says higher cow slaughter and heavier-than-assumed carcass weights will offset lower fed cattle slaughter in the fourth quarter of 2023. That will leave the beef production forecast for 2023 unchanged. Expected heavier carcasses will carry over into early 2024 along with higher cow slaughter. Fourth-quarter pork production was raised 25 million pounds to 7.09 billion pounds, 2.4 percent higher than during the same period last year. Hog prices are expected to average $54 per hundredweight for the quarter, 15 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2022. First-quarter hog prices are lowered by $1 per hundredweight to $56 as soft consumer pork demand is likely to persist, limiting hog price increases. Lamb and mutton import forecasts are lower in the December report compared to the previous month. In poultry, projected broiler production is adjusted higher for the fourth quarter of 2023 based on strong production in October.- NAFB

December 2023 livestock outlook

The USDA reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses. The expenses are part of the process for obtaining or renewing a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. 

“The program is one of the many ways USDA helps support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging all specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification, meet regulatory requirements, and apply by the January deadline.” 

Eligible operations must grow specialty crops, meet the definition of a small business, and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification. The application for 2023 closes January 31, 2024, and FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. For more information, growers should visit farmers.gov.

The USDA reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses. The expenses are part of the process for obtaining or renewing a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program. “The program is one of the many ways USDA helps support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” says Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging all specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification, meet regulatory requirements, and apply by the January deadline.” Eligible operations must grow specialty crops, meet the definition of a small business, and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification. The application for 2023 closes January 31, 2024, and FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. For more information, growers should visit farmers.gov.- NAFB

Specialty crop growers reminded to apply for assistance

The U.S. Treasury Department will use a modified version of the GREET model as a measurement to determine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. 

The agency will use the model as it allocates tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels under the Inflation Reduction Act. The National Corn Growers Association was pleased to hear the Treasury’s decision. “Given that GREET was created by the government and is widely respected for its ability to measure reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the farm to the plane, we’re encouraged by this,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. 

“We’re eager to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and look forward to helping ensure the final model helps achieve that goal.” GREET, which stands for the Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure greenhouse emissions from the field to the car or plane.

The U.S. Treasury Department will use a modified version of the GREET model as a measurement to determine reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The agency will use the model as it allocates tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels under the Inflation Reduction Act. The National Corn Growers Association was pleased to hear the Treasury’s decision. “Given that GREET was created by the government and is widely respected for its ability to measure reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the farm to the plane, we’re encouraged by this,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We’re eager to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and look forward to helping ensure the final model helps achieve that goal.” GREET, which stands for the Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure greenhouse emissions from the field to the car or plane.- NAFB

Good news for the sustainable aviation fuel industry

Barbara O’Brien, president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc., spoke about challenges facing agriculture during the Sustainable Agriculture Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina.

With challenges like a growing global population that needs more food, significant geopolitical challenges, and many others, she says, “We need to take a more thoughtful approach to building resilient food systems, and agriculture must be at the forefront.”

The Summit was co-hosted by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and several other national ag organizations to convene the collective food and agriculture value chain to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient U.S. food system. One highlight of the Sustainable Ag Summit included producers in different U.S. ag sectors sharing how they approach sustainability on their farms.

Barbara O’Brien, president and CEO of Dairy Management Inc., spoke about challenges facing agriculture during the Sustainable Agriculture Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina.With challenges like a growing global population that needs more food, significant geopolitical challenges, and many others, she says, “We need to take a more thoughtful approach to building resilient food systems, and agriculture must be at the forefront.”The Summit was co-hosted by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and several other national ag organizations to convene the collective food and agriculture value chain to learn, develop, and advance a shared vision for a sustainable and resilient U.S. food system. One highlight of the Sustainable Ag Summit included producers in different U.S. ag sectors sharing how they approach sustainability on their farms.

Collaboration, Momentum at Sustainable Agriculture Summit

Global coarse grain production is projected as higher due to higher production forecasts for Ukraine, Russia, and the EU, which are partly offset by a reduction for Mexico. Barley production in Canada and Australia is also projected higher.

Coarse grain exports for the October-September trade year increased by 2.3 million tons. The increased global exports are predominantly due to larger corn export forecasts for the U.S. and Ukraine, and larger forecasts for Australian and Canadian barley. Mexico is expected to take in more corn imports, and China will boost barley imports. The U.S. feed grain forecast is unchanged at 400 million metric tons. Total feed grain supply is 439.4 million metric tons.

Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly to Mexico, contribute to a 25 million bushel increase in the 2023-2024 U.S. corn export forecast. The corn and sorghum season-average prices remain unchanged, but barley and oats prices will rise.

Global coarse grain production is projected as higher due to higher production forecasts for Ukraine, Russia, and the EU, which are partly offset by a reduction for Mexico. Barley production in Canada and Australia is also projected higher.Coarse grain exports for the October-September trade year increased by 2.3 million tons. The increased global exports are predominantly due to larger corn export forecasts for the U.S. and Ukraine, and larger forecasts for Australian and Canadian barley. Mexico is expected to take in more corn imports, and China will boost barley imports. The U.S. feed grain forecast is unchanged at 400 million metric tons. Total feed grain supply is 439.4 million metric tons.Strong corn exports and healthy outstanding sales, particularly to Mexico, contribute to a 25 million bushel increase in the 2023-2024 U.S. corn export forecast. The corn and sorghum season-average prices remain unchanged, but barley and oats prices will rise.-NAFB

Global Corn Production Rises

USDA will begin issuing more than $223 million in Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program payments.

These payments will help producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue due to COVID-19 for the 2020 calendar year. Eligible applicants must have been in the farming business during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year as compared to a baseline year.

PARP benefits help address gaps in previous assistance, which was targeted at price loss or lack of market access rather than overall revenue losses. “PARP payments mark the delivery of the final suite of assistance programs provided by the Farm Service Agency and are also one of the first times that the agency delivered a program focused on revenue decreases,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.

For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.

USDA will begin issuing more than $223 million in Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program payments.These payments will help producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue due to COVID-19 for the 2020 calendar year. Eligible applicants must have been in the farming business during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year as compared to a baseline year.PARP benefits help address gaps in previous assistance, which was targeted at price loss or lack of market access rather than overall revenue losses. “PARP payments mark the delivery of the final suite of assistance programs provided by the Farm Service Agency and are also one of the first times that the agency delivered a program focused on revenue decreases,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.-NAFB

USDA to Start Issuing Pandemic Assistance Payments

Hog producers must prepare for increased scrutiny of their
herds for signs of salmonella.

Veterinarian Greg Cline with Boehringer Ingelheim reminds
producers the Food Safety Inspection Service will soon increase its salmonella
monitoring, likely at the beginning of the new year.

Cline says though new rules might be coming, old practices
remain the same.

“The things we’ve always known about reducing salmonella is the
good husbandry practices,” Cline tells KFEQ in an interview. “Good sanitation
between groups, rodent control. You know, we’ve been preaching that for a
hundred years and it’s still true.”

No hog producers should be alarmed about the new regulations,
though.

“I don’t know that I would consider them bad or ornery or
difficult,” Cline says. “Anytime we can protect and improve food safety in pork
it’s a good thing. Even though we wish it wasn’t the case, pork is still the
third most common cause of salmonella food borne illness in people.”

Perception is always important. Cline says America must
maintain its reputation for having a safe food supply. Cline points out
Boehringer Ingelheim has vaccines that can help.

Cline advises to simply be aware of the changes coming and
talk to your vet.

“Salmonella reduction on your facility is well worth doing,”
Cline says. “Salmonella’s a robber of performance. It’s a great idea to go
after reducing salmonella on your farm and in the future, it’s going to help
you and your pork going forward.”

Cline says any steps to reduce the risk of salmonella is
beneficial to the hog industry.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostHog producers must prepare for increased scrutiny of their
herds for signs of salmonella.Veterinarian Greg Cline with Boehringer Ingelheim reminds
producers the Food Safety Inspection Service will soon increase its salmonella
monitoring, likely at the beginning of the new year.Cline says though new rules might be coming, old practices
remain the same.“The things we’ve always known about reducing salmonella is the
good husbandry practices,” Cline tells KFEQ in an interview. “Good sanitation
between groups, rodent control. You know, we’ve been preaching that for a
hundred years and it’s still true.”No hog producers should be alarmed about the new regulations,
though.“I don’t know that I would consider them bad or ornery or
difficult,” Cline says. “Anytime we can protect and improve food safety in pork
it’s a good thing. Even though we wish it wasn’t the case, pork is still the
third most common cause of salmonella food borne illness in people.”Perception is always important. Cline says America must
maintain its reputation for having a safe food supply. Cline points out
Boehringer Ingelheim has vaccines that can help.Cline advises to simply be aware of the changes coming and
talk to your vet.“Salmonella reduction on your facility is well worth doing,”
Cline says. “Salmonella’s a robber of performance. It’s a great idea to go
after reducing salmonella on your farm and in the future, it’s going to help
you and your pork going forward.”Cline says any steps to reduce the risk of salmonella is
beneficial to the hog industry.

Boehringer Ingelheim warns about coming federal salmonella rules

More than two months into fiscal year 2024, Congress has yet to provide additional funding for hunger programs. Additional funding is for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program in 2024, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. 

WIC's funding needs have grown due to higher-than-expected participation and food costs. Congress has fully funded WIC for more than 25 years. If Congress fails to do so and continues WIC's current funding level for the rest of the fiscal year, WIC will face a roughly $1 billion shortfall. The Center estimates that as a result, states would need to reduce WIC participation by about two million participants nationwide by September.

 If Congress extends the current funding level rather than fully funding WIC, USDA could take measures to protect the program. But the authority is limited and could only close roughly half of a $1 billion shortfall. The Center adds, "Congress must fully fund WIC to avoid jeopardizing the health of about two million very young children and pregnant or postpartum adults."

More than two months into fiscal year 2024, Congress has yet to provide additional funding for hunger programs. Additional funding is for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program in 2024, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. WIC's funding needs have grown due to higher-than-expected participation and food costs. Congress has fully funded WIC for more than 25 years. If Congress fails to do so and continues WIC's current funding level for the rest of the fiscal year, WIC will face a roughly $1 billion shortfall. The Center estimates that as a result, states would need to reduce WIC participation by about two million participants nationwide by September. If Congress extends the current funding level rather than fully funding WIC, USDA could take measures to protect the program. But the authority is limited and could only close roughly half of a $1 billion shortfall. The Center adds, "Congress must fully fund WIC to avoid jeopardizing the health of about two million very young children and pregnant or postpartum adults."- NAFB

Report: 2 million participants could be turned away from WIC

Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, on March 25 - 28, 2024. 

USDA is inviting U.S. exporters wishing to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. Taylor says, "We see tremendous potential for growth as the demand for health and fitness, ready-to-eat, and convenience products is growing, providing a great opportunity for U.S. exporters to expand their sales in the region." The trade mission will offer U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their food and agricultural exports to the region. 

While in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors and distributors. Additionally, attendees will receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts. U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this agribusiness trade mission must apply&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8-g1Gl0PjLPMg9IhJrJmJfXAhlQlUMllVNFExNDg0VkhFR1pRMjNTS0hIREVJMC4u">online</a>&nbsp;by December 18, 2023.

Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, on March 25 - 28, 2024. USDA is inviting U.S. exporters wishing to participate in this trade mission to submit their applications. Taylor says, "We see tremendous potential for growth as the demand for health and fitness, ready-to-eat, and convenience products is growing, providing a great opportunity for U.S. exporters to expand their sales in the region." The trade mission will offer U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their food and agricultural exports to the region. While in Seoul, participants will engage in two days of business-to-business meetings with potential importers, processors and distributors. Additionally, attendees will receive in-depth market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts. U.S. exporters who wish to participate in this agribusiness trade mission must apply&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=5zZb7e4BvE6GfuA8-g1Gl0PjLPMg9IhJrJmJfXAhlQlUMllVNFExNDg0VkhFR1pRMjNTS0hIREVJMC4u">online</a>&nbsp;by December 18, 2023.- NAFB

USDA’s Alexis Taylor to lead trade mission to the Republic of Korea

Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst and Tammy Baldwin are leading a bipartisan push to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer. Iowa Republicans Grassley and Ernst, along with Wisconsin Democrat Baldwin, have introduced the Fertilizer Research Act. 

The legislation would require the Department of Agriculture to study competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price. Grassley says, "With fertilizer being one of the ag industry's highest input costs, it's problematic farmers have such a limited window into market fluctuations." 

Within one year of the bill's passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Council, would be required to issue a report on USDA's website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry. The report would include a description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price, market trends in the past 25 years, and impacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, among other research items.

Senators Chuck Grassley, Joni Ernst and Tammy Baldwin are leading a bipartisan push to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer. Iowa Republicans Grassley and Ernst, along with Wisconsin Democrat Baldwin, have introduced the Fertilizer Research Act. The legislation would require the Department of Agriculture to study competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price. Grassley says, "With fertilizer being one of the ag industry's highest input costs, it's problematic farmers have such a limited window into market fluctuations." Within one year of the bill's passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Council, would be required to issue a report on USDA's website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry. The report would include a description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price, market trends in the past 25 years, and impacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties, among other research items.- NAFB

Grassley, Baldwin, Ernst team up to bring transparency to fertilizer market

The global agriculture system will be expected to provide more food as the world's population increases.

To better understand how the world agriculture system may grow in response by 2050, researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service created a range of scenarios based on population growth. Under medium population growth, production worldwide would have to increase to 14,060 trillion crop calories to feed 9.75 billion people in 2050.

This is a 47-percent increase in crop calories from a 2011 baseline. Crop calories, the total calories available from crops, are a measure of the size of global agriculture since crops can be either consumed directly as food or fed to animals to be consumed as meat, dairy products, and eggs. In a high population growth scenario, 15,410 trillion crop calories would be needed to feed 10.8 billion people, a 61-percent increase in calories from the 2011 baseline.

With both the medium and high population growth scenarios, researchers assumed that as per capita incomes rise, people would increase their overall consumption of calories.

The global agriculture system will be expected to provide more food as the world's population increases.To better understand how the world agriculture system may grow in response by 2050, researchers at USDA’s Economic Research Service created a range of scenarios based on population growth. Under medium population growth, production worldwide would have to increase to 14,060 trillion crop calories to feed 9.75 billion people in 2050.This is a 47-percent increase in crop calories from a 2011 baseline. Crop calories, the total calories available from crops, are a measure of the size of global agriculture since crops can be either consumed directly as food or fed to animals to be consumed as meat, dairy products, and eggs. In a high population growth scenario, 15,410 trillion crop calories would be needed to feed 10.8 billion people, a 61-percent increase in calories from the 2011 baseline.With both the medium and high population growth scenarios, researchers assumed that as per capita incomes rise, people would increase their overall consumption of calories.-NAFB

Population and Income Drive World Food Production Projections

For the 12th consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 9.6 cents from a week ago to $3.12 per gallon.

The national average is down 23.7 cents from a month ago and 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 8.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.10 per gallon— 86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With nearly 80,000 gas stations in the U.S. now priced below $3 per gallon, and 23 states also seeing average prices of $2.99 or less, motorists are getting substantial relief at the pump in time for the holidays."

For the 12th consecutive week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 9.6 cents from a week ago to $3.12 per gallon.The national average is down 23.7 cents from a month ago and 10.1 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 8.4 cents in the last week and stands at $4.10 per gallon— 86 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With nearly 80,000 gas stations in the U.S. now priced below $3 per gallon, and 23 states also seeing average prices of $2.99 or less, motorists are getting substantial relief at the pump in time for the holidays."-NAFB&nbsp;

Fuel Prices Post 12 Weeks of Decline

New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows H-2A usage reached new highs in fiscal year 2023.

The Market Intel report says that comes despite an increase in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which outpaced the hourly wage growth rate of all private employees. This increase in both demand for workers and wage rate continues to put stress on the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers. The data shows the total number of certified H-2A positions at 378,513, an increase of two percent over fiscal year 2022.

While this is a slower rate of increase than in years past, the number of positions certified is still up by more than 100,000 workers compared to fiscal year 2020. This is coupled with a nearly 19 percent increase in the required wage rate since fiscal year 2020, causing labor to be one of the costliest aspects of doing business for farmers and ranchers.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This data shows how important and urgent it is that we get a workable fix for the H-2A program and the AEWR.”

New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows H-2A usage reached new highs in fiscal year 2023.The Market Intel report says that comes despite an increase in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which outpaced the hourly wage growth rate of all private employees. This increase in both demand for workers and wage rate continues to put stress on the bottom lines of farmers and ranchers. The data shows the total number of certified H-2A positions at 378,513, an increase of two percent over fiscal year 2022.While this is a slower rate of increase than in years past, the number of positions certified is still up by more than 100,000 workers compared to fiscal year 2020. This is coupled with a nearly 19 percent increase in the required wage rate since fiscal year 2020, causing labor to be one of the costliest aspects of doing business for farmers and ranchers.AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This data shows how important and urgent it is that we get a workable fix for the H-2A program and the AEWR.”-NAFB