USDA says in the last decade, world agricultural output grew at an average annual rate of 1.94 percent per year, far slower than the 2.74 percent growth rate over the prior decade.

That’s also below the average annual rate of 2.3 percent over the past six decades from 1961-2021. The slowdown was primarily tied to a slowing rate of growth in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP), which fell 1.4 percent per year in 2011-2021 compared to 1.93 percent per year during the previous decade. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the aggregated inputs used in the production process, including land, capital, labor, and material resources.

There are four major sources for overall growth, including bringing more land into production, extending irrigation to land, intensifying the use of capital, labor, and material inputs per unit of land, and improving TFP, reflecting the rate of technological and efficiency improvements of inputs.

USDA says in the last decade, world agricultural output grew at an average annual rate of 1.94 percent per year, far slower than the 2.74 percent growth rate over the prior decade.That’s also below the average annual rate of 2.3 percent over the past six decades from 1961-2021. The slowdown was primarily tied to a slowing rate of growth in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP), which fell 1.4 percent per year in 2011-2021 compared to 1.93 percent per year during the previous decade. TFP measures the amount of agricultural output produced from the aggregated inputs used in the production process, including land, capital, labor, and material resources.There are four major sources for overall growth, including bringing more land into production, extending irrigation to land, intensifying the use of capital, labor, and material inputs per unit of land, and improving TFP, reflecting the rate of technological and efficiency improvements of inputs.-NAFB

Growth Rate of World Ag Production Slows

McDonald’s says it met the goal of sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. by 2025, two years ahead of its original timeline.

The company says it’s continuing to prioritize the health and welfare of the animals in its supply chain. The improvement is in the power of the “McDonald’s System” working together towards a shared goal. As a U.S. system, McDonald’s purchased almost two billion eggs in 2023, close to six times the entire U.S. population.

“Our journey to move to sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. was a huge undertaking that was made uniquely possible by our owner/operators, producers, and our supply chain working together as one team,” says Bob Stewart, SVP and North American Chief Supply Chain Officer for McDonald’s. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved together and the positive impact we’ll continue to make on the path toward a more sustainable future.”

McDonald’s says it met the goal of sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. by 2025, two years ahead of its original timeline.The company says it’s continuing to prioritize the health and welfare of the animals in its supply chain. The improvement is in the power of the “McDonald’s System” working together towards a shared goal. As a U.S. system, McDonald’s purchased almost two billion eggs in 2023, close to six times the entire U.S. population.“Our journey to move to sourcing 100 percent cage-free eggs in the U.S. was a huge undertaking that was made uniquely possible by our owner/operators, producers, and our supply chain working together as one team,” says Bob Stewart, SVP and North American Chief Supply Chain Officer for McDonald’s. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved together and the positive impact we’ll continue to make on the path toward a more sustainable future.”-NAFB

McDonald’s Hits 100 Percent Cage-Free Eggs

Texas A&amp;M’s Ag and Food Policy chief Joe Outlaw, who advises both parties on the House and Senate Ag Committees, predicts a new farm bill won’t get done until the summer of 2025.

Renowned in his field, Dr. Outlaw says farm bills take months to write, pass, and enact. The shortest he’s seen, is nine months, time eaten up this year by political dysfunction and the election calendar. On a Farm Policy Facts “Groundwork” podcast.

“There’s a little bit of rumblings that they want to get it done in 2024. I don’t expect it to be done in ’24 unless something wild happens after the election, and even then, if the House or Senate flips, it’s going to be enough change that I don’t think it will happen early in ’25, either.”

He says that means later, in the summer of ’25. Not a good prospect when American Farm Bureau economists predict in a Market Intel report on USDA data the largest recorded drop in net farm income, down more than 25 percent from last year.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall is calling on Congress to bring down farming costs and pass a new farm bill. But Managing Director of Government Affairs Ryan Yates tells us.

“I think, both for the House and the Senate, there’s a great deal of distance between the chairmen and woman and ranking members that still need to be resolved.”

One example is a proposal by Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow to shift more Title I funds to crop insurance and make producers choose between the two.

“We don’t see a ‘one or the other’ type of an approach. I think that would be a mistake to have to give up one risk management program for another. I think that would be a problem.”

Democrats insist they won’t give up SNAP or climate dollars for farm programs, and House Ag Democrats just issued a memo saying so.

Texas A&amp;M’s Ag and Food Policy chief Joe Outlaw, who advises both parties on the House and Senate Ag Committees, predicts a new farm bill won’t get done until the summer of 2025.Renowned in his field, Dr. Outlaw says farm bills take months to write, pass, and enact. The shortest he’s seen, is nine months, time eaten up this year by political dysfunction and the election calendar. On a Farm Policy Facts “Groundwork” podcast.“There’s a little bit of rumblings that they want to get it done in 2024. I don’t expect it to be done in ’24 unless something wild happens after the election, and even then, if the House or Senate flips, it’s going to be enough change that I don’t think it will happen early in ’25, either.”He says that means later, in the summer of ’25. Not a good prospect when American Farm Bureau economists predict in a Market Intel report on USDA data the largest recorded drop in net farm income, down more than 25 percent from last year.AFBF President Zippy Duvall is calling on Congress to bring down farming costs and pass a new farm bill. But Managing Director of Government Affairs Ryan Yates tells us.“I think, both for the House and the Senate, there’s a great deal of distance between the chairmen and woman and ranking members that still need to be resolved.”One example is a proposal by Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow to shift more Title I funds to crop insurance and make producers choose between the two.“We don’t see a ‘one or the other’ type of an approach. I think that would be a mistake to have to give up one risk management program for another. I think that would be a problem.”Democrats insist they won’t give up SNAP or climate dollars for farm programs, and House Ag Democrats just issued a memo saying so.-NAFB

Texas A & M’s Ag Policy Chief Outlaw Predicts 2025 Farm Bill

The Environmental Protection Agency announced implementation approaches for pesticide policies under the Endangered Species Act.

Assistant Administrator Michael Freedhoff talked about the steps during a speech at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s winter policy conference. When registering pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, EPA must also comply with the Endangered Species Act to ensure the pesticides don’t harm endangered species or their habitats.

EPA announced additional plans to address concerns about the challenge of protecting endangered species from exposure and expand its partnership with the USDA. EPA says it won’t implement the Vulnerable Species Pilot Protections for a species until a more refined map of its habitat gets developed. The agency is also working to develop new maps that better reflect where the species actually live and where protections from pesticides are needed most.

“These steps will benefit farmers and endangered species,” Freedhoff says.

The Environmental Protection Agency announced implementation approaches for pesticide policies under the Endangered Species Act.Assistant Administrator Michael Freedhoff talked about the steps during a speech at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s winter policy conference. When registering pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, EPA must also comply with the Endangered Species Act to ensure the pesticides don’t harm endangered species or their habitats.EPA announced additional plans to address concerns about the challenge of protecting endangered species from exposure and expand its partnership with the USDA. EPA says it won’t implement the Vulnerable Species Pilot Protections for a species until a more refined map of its habitat gets developed. The agency is also working to develop new maps that better reflect where the species actually live and where protections from pesticides are needed most.“These steps will benefit farmers and endangered species,” Freedhoff says.-NAFB

EPA Outlines Potential ESA Pesticide Policies

Missouri is deciding whether to create a fund to help the state’s agriculture industry weather natural disasters, such as drought and flooding.

Governor Mike Parson’s Chief of Staff, Aaron Willard, tells the Missouri House Budget Committee that the governor’s state budget proposal includes a 3-point-five million dollar request to create the fund.

“For the last several years, we've had quite a few instances of drought, then a flooding, and of drought again. And so, this is an opportunity that usually in those cases, we come back to you all, and we ask for funding to try to address some of these issues that have popped up. And this is just an opportunity, from our perspective to say, ‘Look, we can take some of this funding, and we could actually maybe do a little bit of planning ahead,’” says Willard.

Manchester Democratic Representative Deb Lavender supports the plan, saying weather issues are going to be a problem for a while.

“So, I appreciate that opportunity to help with farmers and I do think the weather issues are going to continue to plague us for a while. I used to think we had plenty of water in Missouri. I'm not sure we do anymore,” says Lavender.

House Budget Committee Vice Chairman Dirk Deaton of Noel suggest it might well be needed, but lawmakers have to weigh the arguments for its creation carefully.

“I thought, well, if it’s just maybe for planning or, you know, would it be something necessarily needed, you know, every year and it’s kind of hard to say because it’s, you know, somewhat contingent upon if there’s a flood or a drought what it sounds like. But honestly, it’s Missouri. Right? Do we ever not have a flood or a drought somewhere,” asks Deaton.

The Parson administration argues creation of the fund would streamline aid requests and relieve state department heads from coming to the legislature to ask for disaster funding.

Aaron Willard, Parson’s Chief of Staff, tells the Missouri House Budget Committee the fund would streamline the process, allowing state departments to tap the fund, rather than go to the legislature after each natural disaster, seeking emergency funding.

&nbsp;“We have not only the droughts and the floods, but the impact just on the availability of water is a really critically important issue. If you're a row crop farmer, a lot of times you have the option for insurance. If you are a livestock farmer, you do not. This is also an opportunity to maybe plan ahead and do some things around ponds or around wells,” he says.

Missouri, along with the entire Midwest, has been dealing with drought the last couple of years. Earlier, the state got hit with flooding.

Missouri is deciding whether to create a fund to help the state’s agriculture industry weather natural disasters, such as drought and flooding.Governor Mike Parson’s Chief of Staff, Aaron Willard, tells the Missouri House Budget Committee that the governor’s state budget proposal includes a 3-point-five million dollar request to create the fund.“For the last several years, we've had quite a few instances of drought, then a flooding, and of drought again. And so, this is an opportunity that usually in those cases, we come back to you all, and we ask for funding to try to address some of these issues that have popped up. And this is just an opportunity, from our perspective to say, ‘Look, we can take some of this funding, and we could actually maybe do a little bit of planning ahead,’” says Willard.Manchester Democratic Representative Deb Lavender supports the plan, saying weather issues are going to be a problem for a while.“So, I appreciate that opportunity to help with farmers and I do think the weather issues are going to continue to plague us for a while. I used to think we had plenty of water in Missouri. I'm not sure we do anymore,” says Lavender.House Budget Committee Vice Chairman Dirk Deaton of Noel suggest it might well be needed, but lawmakers have to weigh the arguments for its creation carefully.“I thought, well, if it’s just maybe for planning or, you know, would it be something necessarily needed, you know, every year and it’s kind of hard to say because it’s, you know, somewhat contingent upon if there’s a flood or a drought what it sounds like. But honestly, it’s Missouri. Right? Do we ever not have a flood or a drought somewhere,” asks Deaton.The Parson administration argues creation of the fund would streamline aid requests and relieve state department heads from coming to the legislature to ask for disaster funding.Aaron Willard, Parson’s Chief of Staff, tells the Missouri House Budget Committee the fund would streamline the process, allowing state departments to tap the fund, rather than go to the legislature after each natural disaster, seeking emergency funding.&nbsp;“We have not only the droughts and the floods, but the impact just on the availability of water is a really critically important issue. If you're a row crop farmer, a lot of times you have the option for insurance. If you are a livestock farmer, you do not. This is also an opportunity to maybe plan ahead and do some things around ponds or around wells,” he says.Missouri, along with the entire Midwest, has been dealing with drought the last couple of years. Earlier, the state got hit with flooding.-Missourinet

An agriculture ‘resiliency’ fund? Parson wants to create one

Led by a record-shattering performance in Mexico and broad-based growth elsewhere, U.S. pork exports set a value record in 2023.

Data shows December pork exports rose 10 percent from the prior year to 268,400 metric tons, the largest since May 2021 and the eighth-largest on record. Export value increased 11 percent to $766 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the third-highest on record. The strong December pushed 2023 export value to a record $8.16 billion, six percent higher than 2022. Export volume reached 2.91 million tons, eight percent higher year-over-year and the third-largest on record.

Beef exports closed the year on a higher note, with December totaling 108,497 million tons, down four percent year-over-year but the largest level since August. Export value was also the highest since August, climbing 10 percent over 2022 to $860.8 million. 2023 beef exports hit 1.29 million tons, 12 percent below 2022 levels.

Led by a record-shattering performance in Mexico and broad-based growth elsewhere, U.S. pork exports set a value record in 2023.Data shows December pork exports rose 10 percent from the prior year to 268,400 metric tons, the largest since May 2021 and the eighth-largest on record. Export value increased 11 percent to $766 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the third-highest on record. The strong December pushed 2023 export value to a record $8.16 billion, six percent higher than 2022. Export volume reached 2.91 million tons, eight percent higher year-over-year and the third-largest on record.Beef exports closed the year on a higher note, with December totaling 108,497 million tons, down four percent year-over-year but the largest level since August. Export value was also the highest since August, climbing 10 percent over 2022 to $860.8 million. 2023 beef exports hit 1.29 million tons, 12 percent below 2022 levels.-NAFB

U.S. Pork Exports Set Annual Record

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA has awarded over $270 million to date through cooperative agreements with state departments of agriculture to build resilience across the middle of the food supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems.

The funding is awarded through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. At the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s Winter Policy Conference, Vilsack announced Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Louisiana, Utah, and West Virginia have now opened their Request for Applications for the program, joining 28 states that are already offering grant funding for projects that support supply chain infrastructure.

“These unprecedented investments into our nation’s supply chain infrastructure will not only benefit consumers by ensuring they have dependable access to fresh and locally produced food, but the investments will also benefit producers and rural communities by providing more and better markets for small and mid-sized producers,” he says.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA has awarded over $270 million to date through cooperative agreements with state departments of agriculture to build resilience across the middle of the food supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems.The funding is awarded through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. At the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s Winter Policy Conference, Vilsack announced Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Louisiana, Utah, and West Virginia have now opened their Request for Applications for the program, joining 28 states that are already offering grant funding for projects that support supply chain infrastructure.“These unprecedented investments into our nation’s supply chain infrastructure will not only benefit consumers by ensuring they have dependable access to fresh and locally produced food, but the investments will also benefit producers and rural communities by providing more and better markets for small and mid-sized producers,” he says.-NAFB

USDA Contributes $270 Million to Bolster Food Supply Chain

There may be a small window left this year to do a farm bill, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation, but time is running out.

“It’s a challenge for sure, without a doubt.”

Ryan Yates, AFBF Managing Director of Government Affairs, talks about finding a legislative window for the farm bill as the extension is expiring October 1st.

“This spring would be ideal. I mean, we’ve got, unfortunately, we’ve got appropriations that need to be negotiated in the coming month. So, if those run smoothly, I think that could open a pathway.”

But the House and Senate’s failure to pass border security and foreign military aid bills amid GOP infighting over the party’s election-year strategy underscores how dysfunctional Congress is right now. And the clock is ticking

“The longer you go past this spring, the more difficult it is in an election year, in particular. So, I think there’s a very small window that folks are looking at for this spring, and we’re trying to be as vocal as possible to ensure that Congress knows what needs to get done.”

There may be a small window left this year to do a farm bill, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation, but time is running out.“It’s a challenge for sure, without a doubt.”Ryan Yates, AFBF Managing Director of Government Affairs, talks about finding a legislative window for the farm bill as the extension is expiring October 1st.“This spring would be ideal. I mean, we’ve got, unfortunately, we’ve got appropriations that need to be negotiated in the coming month. So, if those run smoothly, I think that could open a pathway.”But the House and Senate’s failure to pass border security and foreign military aid bills amid GOP infighting over the party’s election-year strategy underscores how dysfunctional Congress is right now. And the clock is ticking“The longer you go past this spring, the more difficult it is in an election year, in particular. So, I think there’s a very small window that folks are looking at for this spring, and we’re trying to be as vocal as possible to ensure that Congress knows what needs to get done.”

Time Running Out for New Farm Bill

The Super Bowl is on Sunday and will be watched by approximately 113 million people.

Food is a big part of Super Bowl parties, and Frito-Lay’s Super Bowl Snack Index has some interesting food trends. Seventy percent of experienced hosts begin gearing up by planning meals, and 51 percent start preparations at least a week early. Three in five guests admit the promise of top-notch food is the deciding factor in which Super Bowl party they attend. It’s particularly true in 77 percent of the under-40 crowd.

Potlucks prevail as the preferred party format at 67 percent, highlighting the popularity of collaborative celebrations over host-provided fare. Salsa (27 percent), French Onion (21 percent), and Queso (20 percent) are the top three dips. While salsa steals the spotlight among Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X dippers, Baby Boomers prefer French Onion.

Thirty-five percent of consumers integrate their favorite snacks into their meals.

The Super Bowl is on Sunday and will be watched by approximately 113 million people.Food is a big part of Super Bowl parties, and Frito-Lay’s Super Bowl Snack Index has some interesting food trends. Seventy percent of experienced hosts begin gearing up by planning meals, and 51 percent start preparations at least a week early. Three in five guests admit the promise of top-notch food is the deciding factor in which Super Bowl party they attend. It’s particularly true in 77 percent of the under-40 crowd.Potlucks prevail as the preferred party format at 67 percent, highlighting the popularity of collaborative celebrations over host-provided fare. Salsa (27 percent), French Onion (21 percent), and Queso (20 percent) are the top three dips. While salsa steals the spotlight among Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X dippers, Baby Boomers prefer French Onion.Thirty-five percent of consumers integrate their favorite snacks into their meals.-NAFB

Favorite Super Bowl Snacks

The Energy Information Administration predicts renewable diesel production to increase by 30 percent annually in both 2024 and 2025.

In its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook, the EIA says renewable diesel production will average approximately 230,000 barrels per day in 2024 and expand to 290,000 barrels per day in 2025. In comparison, production averaged approximately 200,000 barrels per day at the end of 2023. Renewable diesel production capacity has expanded significantly in recent years.

EIA data shows capacity was at 1.75 billion gallons a year in January 2022 and had reached 3.85 billion gallons a year by November 2023. The EIA also announced it is reducing U.S. crude oil capacity forecast by 120,000 barrels per day beginning in March. That prediction comes after Phillips 66 plans to permanently stop processing crude oil at its Rodeo refinery in California next month.

The Energy Information Administration predicts renewable diesel production to increase by 30 percent annually in both 2024 and 2025.In its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook, the EIA says renewable diesel production will average approximately 230,000 barrels per day in 2024 and expand to 290,000 barrels per day in 2025. In comparison, production averaged approximately 200,000 barrels per day at the end of 2023. Renewable diesel production capacity has expanded significantly in recent years.EIA data shows capacity was at 1.75 billion gallons a year in January 2022 and had reached 3.85 billion gallons a year by November 2023. The EIA also announced it is reducing U.S. crude oil capacity forecast by 120,000 barrels per day beginning in March. That prediction comes after Phillips 66 plans to permanently stop processing crude oil at its Rodeo refinery in California next month.

Renewable Diesel to Expand by 30 Percent Annually

The February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates show the 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook calling for lower food, seed, and industrial use and larger ending stocks.

Lower usage will lead to a 10 million bushel increase in ending stocks compared to last month’s report. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 a bushel. This month’s soybean outlook is for lower exports and higher ending stocks. Soybean exports are forecast at 1.72 billion bushels, down 35 million from last month. With crush unchanged, ending stocks are forecast at 315 million bushels, up 35 million from last month.

The season-average soybean price is forecast a dime lower to $12.65 per bushel. The wheat outlook is for stable supplies, lower domestic use, unchanged exports, and higher ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are up 10 million bushels to 658 million. The season-average farm price forecast is unchanged at $7.20 a bushel.

The February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates show the 2023-2024 U.S. corn outlook calling for lower food, seed, and industrial use and larger ending stocks.Lower usage will lead to a 10 million bushel increase in ending stocks compared to last month’s report. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 a bushel. This month’s soybean outlook is for lower exports and higher ending stocks. Soybean exports are forecast at 1.72 billion bushels, down 35 million from last month. With crush unchanged, ending stocks are forecast at 315 million bushels, up 35 million from last month.The season-average soybean price is forecast a dime lower to $12.65 per bushel. The wheat outlook is for stable supplies, lower domestic use, unchanged exports, and higher ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are up 10 million bushels to 658 million. The season-average farm price forecast is unchanged at $7.20 a bushel.-NAFB

February WASDE Shows Higher Corn, Soybean Ending Stocks

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

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

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

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

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

Federal Judge Vacates Dicamba Registrations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

House Ag Democrats Press For Farm Bill, Key Principles

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

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

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

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

Corn Farmers Caution Administration over Electric Vehicles

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

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

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

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

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

House Democrats Draw Lines on Farm Bill Priorities

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

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

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

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

USDA Predicts Large Decline in Farm Income

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

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

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

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

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

Mobile App Restaurant Orders Remain Popular Following Pandemic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AFBF urges lawmakers to pass a farm bill.

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

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

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

Grocery Prices Still High, Could Go Higher Says AFBF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Banning foreign ownership of farmland being brought to Missouri legislature

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

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

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

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

NCC Highlights Chicken Industry’s Efforts to Reduce Food Waste

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Market Prices, Input Costs, Pushing Expectations Lower

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

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

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

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

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

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

Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center Launched

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USTR Ag Negotiator McKalip on Expanding US Beef Trade

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

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

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

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

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