As the agency already prepares for the 2027 Census of Agriculture, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will conduct the National Agricultural Classification Survey on January 24.

The survey, an important step in determining who should receive a 2027 Census of Agriculture questionnaire, will go to approximately 250,000 recipients to ask if they conduct agricultural activity. The results of the survey will ensure that every U.S. producer, no matter how large or small their operation, has a voice and is counted in the highly anticipated and influential agricultural census data.

“This survey helps illustrate the breadth of American agriculture and enables USDA to get a complete count of all farmers and ranchers,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Every response matters. Even if a respondent doesn’t think the survey applies to their farm, we’d ask that they respond to the few screening questions.”

NASS encourages recipients to respond securely online at agcounts.usda.gov.

As the agency already prepares for the 2027 Census of Agriculture, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will conduct the National Agricultural Classification Survey on January 24.The survey, an important step in determining who should receive a 2027 Census of Agriculture questionnaire, will go to approximately 250,000 recipients to ask if they conduct agricultural activity. The results of the survey will ensure that every U.S. producer, no matter how large or small their operation, has a voice and is counted in the highly anticipated and influential agricultural census data.“This survey helps illustrate the breadth of American agriculture and enables USDA to get a complete count of all farmers and ranchers,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Every response matters. Even if a respondent doesn’t think the survey applies to their farm, we’d ask that they respond to the few screening questions.”NASS encourages recipients to respond securely online at agcounts.usda.gov.-NAFB

USDA Kicking Off the National Ag Classification Survey

The USDA is awarding grants worth $19 million to American businesses to increase the availability of biofuels in 22 states and give Americans cleaner and more affordable options at gas station pumps.

Blending ethanol into gasoline has helped reduce fuel costs by approximately 25 percent, contributing to falling gas prices across the country. Gas prices are now under $2.99 in more than half of U.S. states and save the average driver more than $100 per month relative to peak prices. The agency is making the awards through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program.

“By increasing the supply of biofuels made here in the U.S., we are strengthening our energy independence, lowering costs for American families, creating new streams of income for agricultural producers, and bringing good-paying jobs to people in rural communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The investments will help business owners install and upgrade biofuels infrastructure, including pumps.

The USDA is awarding grants worth $19 million to American businesses to increase the availability of biofuels in 22 states and give Americans cleaner and more affordable options at gas station pumps.Blending ethanol into gasoline has helped reduce fuel costs by approximately 25 percent, contributing to falling gas prices across the country. Gas prices are now under $2.99 in more than half of U.S. states and save the average driver more than $100 per month relative to peak prices. The agency is making the awards through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program.“By increasing the supply of biofuels made here in the U.S., we are strengthening our energy independence, lowering costs for American families, creating new streams of income for agricultural producers, and bringing good-paying jobs to people in rural communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The investments will help business owners install and upgrade biofuels infrastructure, including pumps.-NAFB

USDA Investing in Biofuels

Fueled by record performances in Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, November pork exports reached their highest value since November 2021.

USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says November pork exports reached 258,600 metric tons, up five percent from last year and the highest in six months. Export value rose two percent to $737.4 million, the highest since May 2021 and seventh-highest on record. From January through November, pork exports reached 2.64 million metric tons, eight percent higher than the previous year.

“The momentum for U.S. pork is remarkable and very broad-based,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Beef exports totaled just over 99,000 metric tons during November, 14 percent below the prior year and the second lowest in 2023. Value fell seven percent to $786 million. For the first 11 months of the year, beef exports were 13 percent lower than the record pace of 2022.

Fueled by record performances in Mexico, Central America, and Colombia, November pork exports reached their highest value since November 2021.USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation says November pork exports reached 258,600 metric tons, up five percent from last year and the highest in six months. Export value rose two percent to $737.4 million, the highest since May 2021 and seventh-highest on record. From January through November, pork exports reached 2.64 million metric tons, eight percent higher than the previous year.“The momentum for U.S. pork is remarkable and very broad-based,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Beef exports totaled just over 99,000 metric tons during November, 14 percent below the prior year and the second lowest in 2023. Value fell seven percent to $786 million. For the first 11 months of the year, beef exports were 13 percent lower than the record pace of 2022.-NAFB

November Pork Export Value Highest in Over Two Years

The Department of Agriculture this week announced that 35 states, all five U.S. territories, and four tribes plan to be the first to launch the new, permanent summer grocery benefits program for children.

Known as Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer, the program in 2024 will serve close to 21 million children, providing nearly $2.5 billion in grocery benefits. This is around 70 percent of the total population of children eligible for Summer EBT. Through the program, states will provide families with $120 per eligible child for the summer to buy food at grocery stores, farmers markets or other authorized retailers – similar to how SNAP benefits are used. Participating tribes will provide a benefit of the same amount that can be used to buy food at WIC-authorized retailers.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Together we’re making progress in closing the summer hunger gap and ensuring children are nourished and healthy year-round.” USDA expects additional states and tribes will provide Summer EBT in 2025.

The Department of Agriculture this week announced that 35 states, all five U.S. territories, and four tribes plan to be the first to launch the new, permanent summer grocery benefits program for children.Known as Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer, the program in 2024 will serve close to 21 million children, providing nearly $2.5 billion in grocery benefits. This is around 70 percent of the total population of children eligible for Summer EBT. Through the program, states will provide families with $120 per eligible child for the summer to buy food at grocery stores, farmers markets or other authorized retailers – similar to how SNAP benefits are used. Participating tribes will provide a benefit of the same amount that can be used to buy food at WIC-authorized retailers.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Together we’re making progress in closing the summer hunger gap and ensuring children are nourished and healthy year-round.” USDA expects additional states and tribes will provide Summer EBT in 2025.-NAFB

Nearly 21 Million Children Expected to Receive New Grocery Benefit This Summer

The Federal Communications Commission plans to start winding down the Affordable Connectivity Program as funding for the effort dries up.

The FCC has emphasized the need for additional funding for program, and the White House recently made an additional funding request to Congress for $6 billion to keep the program going. With less than four months before the projected program end date and without any immediate additional funding, this week, the Commission expects to begin taking steps to start winding down the program to give households, providers, and other stakeholders sufficient time to prepare.

FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel says in a letter to lawmakers, “If Congress does not provide additional funding for the ACP in the near future, millions of households will lose the ACP benefit that they use to afford internet service.” While Congress initially appropriated $14.2 billion for the ACP, more funding is needed to keep the program in place.

The FCC expects funding to last through April 2024, running out completely in May.

The Federal Communications Commission plans to start winding down the Affordable Connectivity Program as funding for the effort dries up.The FCC has emphasized the need for additional funding for program, and the White House recently made an additional funding request to Congress for $6 billion to keep the program going. With less than four months before the projected program end date and without any immediate additional funding, this week, the Commission expects to begin taking steps to start winding down the program to give households, providers, and other stakeholders sufficient time to prepare.FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel says in a letter to lawmakers, “If Congress does not provide additional funding for the ACP in the near future, millions of households will lose the ACP benefit that they use to afford internet service.” While Congress initially appropriated $14.2 billion for the ACP, more funding is needed to keep the program in place.The FCC expects funding to last through April 2024, running out completely in May.-NAFB

Without More Funding, FCC Winding Down Broadband Program

U.S. wheat imports are forecasted to be at their highest in six years for the 2023/24 marketing year, according to USDA's Economic Research Service.

Consecutive years of drought in key U.S. growing regions of hard red winter wheat have tapered U.S. output, elevating domestic prices. Millers have sought less expensive sources, including competitively priced wheat from the European Union. U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat, mostly from the EU, for 2023/24 are at 25 million bushels, a record high, and up from five million bushels from 2022/23.

This trade flow is atypical as U.S. wheat imports are normally driven by hard red spring and durum wheat from neighboring Canada. In 2017/18, imports from Canada of both classes of wheat were elevated because of drought-related supply issues in the United States. While U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat are elevated in 2023/24, imports of soft red winter and white wheat are relatively close to normal levels.

U.S. wheat imports are forecasted to be at their highest in six years for the 2023/24 marketing year, according to USDA's Economic Research Service.Consecutive years of drought in key U.S. growing regions of hard red winter wheat have tapered U.S. output, elevating domestic prices. Millers have sought less expensive sources, including competitively priced wheat from the European Union. U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat, mostly from the EU, for 2023/24 are at 25 million bushels, a record high, and up from five million bushels from 2022/23.This trade flow is atypical as U.S. wheat imports are normally driven by hard red spring and durum wheat from neighboring Canada. In 2017/18, imports from Canada of both classes of wheat were elevated because of drought-related supply issues in the United States. While U.S. imports of hard red winter wheat are elevated in 2023/24, imports of soft red winter and white wheat are relatively close to normal levels.-NAFB

U.S. Wheat Imports Reach 6-year High

A new poll from Agri-Pulse and Stratovation Group finds farmers and ranchers support electing Donald Trump to another term as president.

The effort shows 39 percent of surveyed farmers say they would most likely vote for Trump, while 19 percent indicated they would vote for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Just eight percent of surveyed farmers say they would vote for President Joe Biden. Of the 605 farmers that participated in the survey, 61 percent identified as Republicans, with 45 percent of that group favoring Trump. Ten percent of the survey participants identified as Democrats with 62 percent of those farmers supporting Biden.

Another 18 percent of farmers identified as independents. Stratovation Group conducted the study between December 14-22, 20243, including farmers and ranchers from the Midwest, South and California. The first presidential primary vote comes Monday as Republicans hold the Iowa Caucus.

A new poll from Agri-Pulse and Stratovation Group finds farmers and ranchers support electing Donald Trump to another term as president.The effort shows 39 percent of surveyed farmers say they would most likely vote for Trump, while 19 percent indicated they would vote for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Just eight percent of surveyed farmers say they would vote for President Joe Biden. Of the 605 farmers that participated in the survey, 61 percent identified as Republicans, with 45 percent of that group favoring Trump. Ten percent of the survey participants identified as Democrats with 62 percent of those farmers supporting Biden.Another 18 percent of farmers identified as independents. Stratovation Group conducted the study between December 14-22, 20243, including farmers and ranchers from the Midwest, South and California. The first presidential primary vote comes Monday as Republicans hold the Iowa Caucus.-NAFB

Agri-Pulse Poll Shows Farmers Support Donald Trump

The Department of Agriculture this week reminded farmers, ranchers and forest landowners that January 13, 2024, is the deadline to apply for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program.

The program is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, which provided $2.2 billion in funding. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs before January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred before January 1, 2021, are eligible for the program.

Applications may be submitted online through the program website at 22007apply.gov, in person at a DFAP local office, or by mail. The full list of offices and their operating hours can be found on the application website. After receiving feedback from potential applicants in September, USDA extended the deadline to January 13, 2024. This provided potential applicants six months to prepare applications.

The previous deadline was October 31, 2023.

The Department of Agriculture this week reminded farmers, ranchers and forest landowners that January 13, 2024, is the deadline to apply for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program.The program is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, which provided $2.2 billion in funding. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs before January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred before January 1, 2021, are eligible for the program.Applications may be submitted online through the program website at 22007apply.gov, in person at a DFAP local office, or by mail. The full list of offices and their operating hours can be found on the application website. After receiving feedback from potential applicants in September, USDA extended the deadline to January 13, 2024. This provided potential applicants six months to prepare applications.The previous deadline was October 31, 2023.-NAFB

USDA Reminds Producers of Upcoming Discrimination Financial Assistance Deadline

The International Food Information Council’s annual food trends forecast predicts consumers will focus more on label claims this year.

The report suggests the industry should expect a heightened emphasis on transparent food labeling, empowering shoppers to make informed decisions about the foods and beverages they consume. Labels such as clean, cold-pressed, and fermented, which consumers associate with healthfulness, will continue to be at the forefront. Actions by the Food and Drug Administration are bringing Americans closer to an updated definition of a “healthy” food.

As far as consumers are concerned, the most common attributes they believe define a healthy food are fresh, low in sugar and good source of protein. IFIC’s Kris Sollid says, “Front-of-Package nutrition labeling will be a major focus in 2024 as U.S. food regulators roll out a new labeling proposal to help shoppers make easier, quicker, and healthier food decisions.”

The International Food Information Council’s annual food trends forecast predicts consumers will focus more on label claims this year.The report suggests the industry should expect a heightened emphasis on transparent food labeling, empowering shoppers to make informed decisions about the foods and beverages they consume. Labels such as clean, cold-pressed, and fermented, which consumers associate with healthfulness, will continue to be at the forefront. Actions by the Food and Drug Administration are bringing Americans closer to an updated definition of a “healthy” food.As far as consumers are concerned, the most common attributes they believe define a healthy food are fresh, low in sugar and good source of protein. IFIC’s Kris Sollid says, “Front-of-Package nutrition labeling will be a major focus in 2024 as U.S. food regulators roll out a new labeling proposal to help shoppers make easier, quicker, and healthier food decisions.”-NAFB

Consumers to Focus on Labels in 2024

The 8th Circuit Court unanimously overruled a District Court and upheld Iowa’s 2019 and 2021 agriculture trespass laws as constitutional this week.

After several organizations challenged the new law, the district court concluded that the intent requirement renders the law “viewpoint-based” and unconstitutional under the First Amendment. In the ruling, the 8th Circuit Court said, “We respectfully disagree, and therefore reverse.” The lawsuit was filed by groups including the Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety, among others.

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig responded, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” Critics described the laws as “ag-gag” laws, seeking to criminalize efforts to access and secretly record alleged animal abuse on farms.

The 8th Circuit Court unanimously overruled a District Court and upheld Iowa’s 2019 and 2021 agriculture trespass laws as constitutional this week.After several organizations challenged the new law, the district court concluded that the intent requirement renders the law “viewpoint-based” and unconstitutional under the First Amendment. In the ruling, the 8th Circuit Court said, “We respectfully disagree, and therefore reverse.” The lawsuit was filed by groups including the Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety, among others.Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig responded, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” Critics described the laws as “ag-gag” laws, seeking to criminalize efforts to access and secretly record alleged animal abuse on farms.-NAFB

Court Upholds Iowa Agriculture Trespass Laws

Adults in U.S. households that are less food secure are significantly more likely to have one or more chronic diseases, and the likelihood increases as food insecurity worsens.

Researchers with the Economic Research Service looked at the rate of five chronic diseases across four levels of household food security, ranging from high food security to very low food security. High food security households have no problems or anxiety about consistently obtaining adequate food. Very low food-secure households feature eating patterns of one or more household members that got disrupted and reduced their food intake.

From 2019-2022, the predicted illness prevalence among the five chronic diseases examined was 3.6 to 9.5 percentage points higher for adults in very low food-secure households compared to those with high food-secure households. For example, hypertension was found in 36 percent of very low food secure households, showing that food security status and health are closely linked.

Adults in U.S. households that are less food secure are significantly more likely to have one or more chronic diseases, and the likelihood increases as food insecurity worsens.Researchers with the Economic Research Service looked at the rate of five chronic diseases across four levels of household food security, ranging from high food security to very low food security. High food security households have no problems or anxiety about consistently obtaining adequate food. Very low food-secure households feature eating patterns of one or more household members that got disrupted and reduced their food intake.From 2019-2022, the predicted illness prevalence among the five chronic diseases examined was 3.6 to 9.5 percentage points higher for adults in very low food-secure households compared to those with high food-secure households. For example, hypertension was found in 36 percent of very low food secure households, showing that food security status and health are closely linked.-NAFB

USDA: Chronic Disease Linked to Food Security

For the second straight week, GasBuddy says the nation’s average price of gasoline has declined, falling 3.8 cents from a week ago to $3.03 per gallon.

“Sluggish gasoline demand has led to the national average easing again and brings back the potential for the national average to drift under $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “With a record rise in gasoline inventories last week as demand was anemic during the holidays, motorists have provided the catalyst for falling prices.” He also says if demand remains weak, it’s possible gasoline prices could fall further.

In addition, refinery issues in California have also eased, which will soon cause prices to decline in California, Nevada, and Arizona, possibly providing momentum for a $2.99 national average. However, the better it gets now, the sharper the rise could be ahead of spring, as prices could start rising by mid-February.

For the second straight week, GasBuddy says the nation’s average price of gasoline has declined, falling 3.8 cents from a week ago to $3.03 per gallon.“Sluggish gasoline demand has led to the national average easing again and brings back the potential for the national average to drift under $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “With a record rise in gasoline inventories last week as demand was anemic during the holidays, motorists have provided the catalyst for falling prices.” He also says if demand remains weak, it’s possible gasoline prices could fall further.In addition, refinery issues in California have also eased, which will soon cause prices to decline in California, Nevada, and Arizona, possibly providing momentum for a $2.99 national average. However, the better it gets now, the sharper the rise could be ahead of spring, as prices could start rising by mid-February.-NAFB

Fuel Prices Continue New Year Declines

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding more than $200 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. The expansion efforts will happen through the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. 

“Over the year, we’ve seen the tremendous impact both MAP and FMD have on expanding U.S. exports to markets around the world,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “For each dollar invested in export market development, U.S. agricultural exports have increased by more than $24.” He calls these programs a “significant boost to the agricultural industry,” which, in turn, helps strengthen the economies of communities across the entire United States. 

Through MAP, FAS will provide $174.3 million for fiscal year 2024 to 68 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives. Under FMD, FAS will allocate $27 million to 20 trade organizations that represent American agricultural producers. To learn more, visit fas.usda.gov.

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding more than $200 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. The expansion efforts will happen through the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. “Over the year, we’ve seen the tremendous impact both MAP and FMD have on expanding U.S. exports to markets around the world,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “For each dollar invested in export market development, U.S. agricultural exports have increased by more than $24.” He calls these programs a “significant boost to the agricultural industry,” which, in turn, helps strengthen the economies of communities across the entire United States. Through MAP, FAS will provide $174.3 million for fiscal year 2024 to 68 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives. Under FMD, FAS will allocate $27 million to 20 trade organizations that represent American agricultural producers. To learn more, visit fas.usda.gov.-NAFB

USDA Announces Market Development Program Investments for Fiscal Year 2024

One-fourth of America’s bird flu losses during outbreaks beginning in early 2022 were recorded during the final quarter of 2023.

USDA data says that’s when the disease staged a resurgence. Approximately 20.9 million birds were culled in infected domestic flocks from October through December to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Successful Farming says bird flu hit egg farmers so hard that prices in 2022 soared 32 percent above the average in 2021.

That’s the largest increase for any food categories USDA tracked during a year of high food inflation. As flocks got rebuilt, egg prices rose marginally in 2023 and are expected to fall 12 percent this year. A total of 79.7 million domestic birds, mostly egg-laying hens and turkeys being raised for human consumption, died in HPAI outbreaks or eradication efforts since February 2022.

Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 1,059 flocks in 47 states.

One-fourth of America’s bird flu losses during outbreaks beginning in early 2022 were recorded during the final quarter of 2023.USDA data says that’s when the disease staged a resurgence. Approximately 20.9 million birds were culled in infected domestic flocks from October through December to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Successful Farming says bird flu hit egg farmers so hard that prices in 2022 soared 32 percent above the average in 2021.That’s the largest increase for any food categories USDA tracked during a year of high food inflation. As flocks got rebuilt, egg prices rose marginally in 2023 and are expected to fall 12 percent this year. A total of 79.7 million domestic birds, mostly egg-laying hens and turkeys being raised for human consumption, died in HPAI outbreaks or eradication efforts since February 2022.Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 1,059 flocks in 47 states.-NAFB

Millions of Birds Die During Two Years of Bird Flu

The Midwest Climate Hub says warm and dry was the theme during December in the North Central U.S. There have been exceptions, including a Christmas system that dropped multiple inches of precipitation in certain areas.

The region saw both one and two-class improvements and degradations in drought status, and concerns are starting to weigh heavily on whether soil moisture will be recharged this winter. The next three to five months are expected to follow a typical El Niño weather pattern overall. That means temperatures will lean warmer for the region, and conditions will be drier for the northern and eastern states in the Midwest.

It’s about the 180th week of D1 drought in parts of Iowa, which is the longest stretch since the 1950s. Exceptional drought continues in southeast Nebraska, with some places in exceptional drought for the past five months. Temps have been above normal for the last 30 days. &nbsp;

The Midwest Climate Hub says warm and dry was the theme during December in the North Central U.S. There have been exceptions, including a Christmas system that dropped multiple inches of precipitation in certain areas.The region saw both one and two-class improvements and degradations in drought status, and concerns are starting to weigh heavily on whether soil moisture will be recharged this winter. The next three to five months are expected to follow a typical El Niño weather pattern overall. That means temperatures will lean warmer for the region, and conditions will be drier for the northern and eastern states in the Midwest.It’s about the 180th week of D1 drought in parts of Iowa, which is the longest stretch since the 1950s. Exceptional drought continues in southeast Nebraska, with some places in exceptional drought for the past five months. Temps have been above normal for the last 30 days. &nbsp;-NAFB

Midwest Weather Staying Warmer and Drier Than Normal

The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization says world food prices dropped in December. 

The Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the prices of globally traded commodities, averaged 188.5 points in December, down 1.5 percent from November and 10 percent lower than December 2022. For 2023, the index was 13.7 percent lower than the average value of 2022, with only the international sugar price index higher during the period. The Cereal Price Index rose 1.5 percent from November, but the yearly index was 15 percent below 2022. 

The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.4 percent from November, and for the year was 33 percent below 2022. The Sugar Price Index dropped 17 percent from November, but still finished 15 percent higher than December 2022. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent from November, hitting a level of two percent below December 2022. The Dairy Index rose 1.6 percent from November.

The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization says world food prices dropped in December. The Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the prices of globally traded commodities, averaged 188.5 points in December, down 1.5 percent from November and 10 percent lower than December 2022. For 2023, the index was 13.7 percent lower than the average value of 2022, with only the international sugar price index higher during the period. The Cereal Price Index rose 1.5 percent from November, but the yearly index was 15 percent below 2022. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.4 percent from November, and for the year was 33 percent below 2022. The Sugar Price Index dropped 17 percent from November, but still finished 15 percent higher than December 2022. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent from November, hitting a level of two percent below December 2022. The Dairy Index rose 1.6 percent from November.-NAFB

Food Price Index Drops in December

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced that $3 million is available for cooperative growth agreements to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on risk management. 

The educational opportunities can also include climate-smart practices. RMA’s Risk Management Education Partnerships provide funding for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities to develop training and resources for producers about risk management options like crop insurance. “This funding is integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” 

Bunger also says they want to work directly with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and applying them to the farming business. A broad range of risk management activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options and others.

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced that $3 million is available for cooperative growth agreements to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on risk management. The educational opportunities can also include climate-smart practices. RMA’s Risk Management Education Partnerships provide funding for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities to develop training and resources for producers about risk management options like crop insurance. “This funding is integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” Bunger also says they want to work directly with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and applying them to the farming business. A broad range of risk management activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options and others.- NAFB

USDA investments in risk-management training

A USDA report says December weather was a mixed bag for winter wheat producers. Timely precipitation in major wheat-growing states like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas boosted the crop. 

In Kansas, the top-producing state, about 43 percent of the hard-red crop was in good or excellent condition in December. Thirty-six percent was in fair condition, with the rest poor to very poor. An average of 2.7 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma last month, with more than three inches in west central counties. 

While no condition report was available, 22 percent of the state was suffering from drought, down from 47 percent three months earlier and 90 percent a year ago. In Colorado, 61 percent of the winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition, up from 50 percent last year. In Arkansas, where soft-red winter wheat is grown, topsoil moisture was 69 percent surplus and 26 percent was adequate.

A USDA report says December weather was a mixed bag for winter wheat producers. Timely precipitation in major wheat-growing states like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas boosted the crop. In Kansas, the top-producing state, about 43 percent of the hard-red crop was in good or excellent condition in December. Thirty-six percent was in fair condition, with the rest poor to very poor. An average of 2.7 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma last month, with more than three inches in west central counties. While no condition report was available, 22 percent of the state was suffering from drought, down from 47 percent three months earlier and 90 percent a year ago. In Colorado, 61 percent of the winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition, up from 50 percent last year. In Arkansas, where soft-red winter wheat is grown, topsoil moisture was 69 percent surplus and 26 percent was adequate.- NAFB

Weather mixed in winter wheat country

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a ban on agricultural land purchases by citizens and businesses from six nations if the property is within ten miles of critical military facilities. Parson says he had countries like “China and other adversarial nations” in mind when issuing an executive order on the topic. 

The order puts the state Ag Department in charge of reviewing all proposed purchases of farmland by foreigners The Ag Department is to deny all proposed purchases within ten miles of military facilities by entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. 

Missouri is the latest state to restrict foreign ownership of U.S. farmland amid rising international tensions. Arkansas recently ordered Syngenta, owned by ChemChina, to sell a 160-acre research farm. Foreign investors own 43.4 million acres, or 3.4 percent of privately-held agricultural land, which includes 474,000 acres in Missouri. The executive order doesn’t affect existing farmland ownership.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a ban on agricultural land purchases by citizens and businesses from six nations if the property is within ten miles of critical military facilities. Parson says he had countries like “China and other adversarial nations” in mind when issuing an executive order on the topic. The order puts the state Ag Department in charge of reviewing all proposed purchases of farmland by foreigners The Ag Department is to deny all proposed purchases within ten miles of military facilities by entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. Missouri is the latest state to restrict foreign ownership of U.S. farmland amid rising international tensions. Arkansas recently ordered Syngenta, owned by ChemChina, to sell a 160-acre research farm. Foreign investors own 43.4 million acres, or 3.4 percent of privately-held agricultural land, which includes 474,000 acres in Missouri. The executive order doesn’t affect existing farmland ownership.- NAFB

Missouri bans foreign ownership of some farmland

An agronomist for a major agricultural chemical company
advises farmers to stick to a plan going into this growing season and to resist
the temptation to out-guess the weather.

Leon Hunter is Syngenta’s agronomy manager for the eastern
corn belt. Hunter says 2023 proved to be a bad environment for crops due to the
widespread drought.

“I think as we start looking at the fall of ’23, we saw a lot
of weed in the fields. And, I think the seed bank has been replenished,” Hunter
tells KFEQ, adding farmers need to start making a plan for 2024. “And look at a
holistic plan, not looking at just what happened in ’23, but maybe managing
each field based on what they saw at harvest as it relates to weeds, and/or
diseases, or insects as well.”

Hunter acknowledges the weather can produce anxiety for
farmers, but insists there is opportunity as well.

“Typically, when we get to that level of anxiety, we starting thinking
about, ‘Where can I save? How can I cut back?’” Hunter says, “And maybe it’s in
those times that we should really look at investing in the crop and doing everything
we can to produce more bushels so we can get higher yields and higher returns.”

Hunter reminds farmers they developed their plan for the
upcoming year based on solid information. Though things change and challenges
crop up, that plan can guide them to success in 2024.

“Plan it. And when you plan it, stick to your plan, because
you made that decision on that plan for a reason,” Hunter says. “It was the
right thing to do regardless of the environment. You know there are other
benefits from fungicides.”

Hunter says tar spot disease has greatly affected corn yields.
It was discovered late and has caused devastating losses. He says Syngenta and
other herbicide producers have products that can help.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704395140868.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure> By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn agronomist for a major agricultural chemical company
advises farmers to stick to a plan going into this growing season and to resist
the temptation to out-guess the weather.Leon Hunter is Syngenta’s agronomy manager for the eastern
corn belt. Hunter says 2023 proved to be a bad environment for crops due to the
widespread drought.“I think as we start looking at the fall of ’23, we saw a lot
of weed in the fields. And, I think the seed bank has been replenished,” Hunter
tells KFEQ, adding farmers need to start making a plan for 2024. “And look at a
holistic plan, not looking at just what happened in ’23, but maybe managing
each field based on what they saw at harvest as it relates to weeds, and/or
diseases, or insects as well.”Hunter acknowledges the weather can produce anxiety for
farmers, but insists there is opportunity as well.“Typically, when we get to that level of anxiety, we starting thinking
about, ‘Where can I save? How can I cut back?’” Hunter says, “And maybe it’s in
those times that we should really look at investing in the crop and doing everything
we can to produce more bushels so we can get higher yields and higher returns.”Hunter reminds farmers they developed their plan for the
upcoming year based on solid information. Though things change and challenges
crop up, that plan can guide them to success in 2024.“Plan it. And when you plan it, stick to your plan, because
you made that decision on that plan for a reason,” Hunter says. “It was the
right thing to do regardless of the environment. You know there are other
benefits from fungicides.”Hunter says tar spot disease has greatly affected corn yields.
It was discovered late and has caused devastating losses. He says Syngenta and
other herbicide producers have products that can help.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Syngenta agronomist urges farmers to stick to a plan for 2024

Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. The course is free for active military service members and military veterans. 

Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism through Farm Stores,” starts February 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option. Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center, says, "During the on-farm sessions, experienced farmers will go through the ins and outs of on- and off-site farm stores, how they set up their on-farm buying experiences, and challenges they have faced." 

Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems, and more. Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism, such as poultry, pork, beef, and beekeeping, will be available to assist participants throughout the course's online platform. Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions,&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/midcl/Downloads/cfra.org/AgVets2024.">online</a>.

Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. The course is free for active military service members and military veterans. Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism through Farm Stores,” starts February 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option. Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center, says, "During the on-farm sessions, experienced farmers will go through the ins and outs of on- and off-site farm stores, how they set up their on-farm buying experiences, and challenges they have faced." Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems, and more. Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism, such as poultry, pork, beef, and beekeeping, will be available to assist participants throughout the course's online platform. Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions,&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/midcl/Downloads/cfra.org/AgVets2024.">online</a>.- NAFB

Workshop series for veterans focuses on agritourism

Demand for organic cotton in the U.S. is growing, but imports continue to pick up the slack of inadequate domestic production. A new project led by Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Research aims to turn the situation around by identifying the challenges and opportunities for U.S. organic cotton growers. 

The study, Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach on Organic Regenerative Practices, is funded by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant. Researchers expect the study to help U.S. organic cotton producers determine how to improve yields, productivity, and sustainability in their existing fields and transition more acreage into organic production. 

Organizers say, "We want to understand what their production challenges are, how they are managing them, what works and what doesn't, and how their practices are impacting the soil and output long-term."&nbsp; With no synthetic herbicides allowed, the project will identify other methods that might minimize the tillage needed for weed control.

Demand for organic cotton in the U.S. is growing, but imports continue to pick up the slack of inadequate domestic production. A new project led by Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Research aims to turn the situation around by identifying the challenges and opportunities for U.S. organic cotton growers. The study, Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach on Organic Regenerative Practices, is funded by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant. Researchers expect the study to help U.S. organic cotton producers determine how to improve yields, productivity, and sustainability in their existing fields and transition more acreage into organic production. Organizers say, "We want to understand what their production challenges are, how they are managing them, what works and what doesn't, and how their practices are impacting the soil and output long-term."&nbsp; With no synthetic herbicides allowed, the project will identify other methods that might minimize the tillage needed for weed control.- NAFB

U.S. demand for organic cotton growing

Grain futures ended 2023 significantly in the red, with corn futures suffering their biggest yearly drop in a decade, according to a new analysis by the University of Illinois' Farm Policy website. 

Wheat and soybeans also posted steep declines in 2024 following bumper harvests in Brazil and resilient Black Sea trade. The most active corn contract was down 31 percent in 2023, while wheat was down 21 percent, and soybeans were down 15 percent. Mike Zuzolo, president of Global Commodity Analytics, adds, "In 2024, producers are going to be a lot more concerned about their input costs, and that is where beans play a much better role for them." 

The Department of Agriculture also expects soybean acres to increase in 2024, with the November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report predicting that U.S. farmers will plant 87 million acres of soybeans in 2024, an increase of 3.4 million acres. Corn acres are expected to be 91 million acres, a decrease of 3.9 million acres, according to the USDA.

Grain futures ended 2023 significantly in the red, with corn futures suffering their biggest yearly drop in a decade, according to a new analysis by the University of Illinois' Farm Policy website. Wheat and soybeans also posted steep declines in 2024 following bumper harvests in Brazil and resilient Black Sea trade. The most active corn contract was down 31 percent in 2023, while wheat was down 21 percent, and soybeans were down 15 percent. Mike Zuzolo, president of Global Commodity Analytics, adds, "In 2024, producers are going to be a lot more concerned about their input costs, and that is where beans play a much better role for them." The Department of Agriculture also expects soybean acres to increase in 2024, with the November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report predicting that U.S. farmers will plant 87 million acres of soybeans in 2024, an increase of 3.4 million acres. Corn acres are expected to be 91 million acres, a decrease of 3.9 million acres, according to the USDA.- NAFB

Analysis: corn futures fall more than 30% in 2023

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows Genetically engineered crops dominate the U.S. agriculture sector. Genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the United States for major field crops in 1996, with adoption rates increasing rapidly in the following years.

 The two main GE trait types are herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant. USDA reports information on GE crops in the data product Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States. The data shows that by 2008, more than 50 percent of corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with at least one GE seed trait. 

Today, more than 90 percent of those acres are planted using at least one GE trait. Other traits have been developed, including resistance to viruses, fungi, and drought or enhanced protein, oil, or vitamin content. While herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, most GE acres are occupied by three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans.

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows Genetically engineered crops dominate the U.S. agriculture sector. Genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the United States for major field crops in 1996, with adoption rates increasing rapidly in the following years. The two main GE trait types are herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant. USDA reports information on GE crops in the data product Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States. The data shows that by 2008, more than 50 percent of corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with at least one GE seed trait. Today, more than 90 percent of those acres are planted using at least one GE trait. Other traits have been developed, including resistance to viruses, fungi, and drought or enhanced protein, oil, or vitamin content. While herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, most GE acres are occupied by three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans.- NAFB

GE Crops dominate U.S. soybean, cotton, and corn acres

The Waters of the U.S. rule rewrite topped the list of agricultural issues for the National Agricultural Law Center in 2023. 

While WOTUS was the top issue for 2024, California’s Proposition 12 came in second, with the one-year Farm Bill extension third. The organization listed EPA’s rollout of the Endangered Species Protection Program and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act fourth. Other top issues include the Arkansas foreign ownership of land restrictions, competition in the livestock sector and water use from the Colorado River. Right to repair gained traction as farmers continued to advocate for the right to access manufacturer-controlled tools and information. 

The list rounds out with growth in the industrial hemp sector and civil litigation over pesticides, such as glyphosate exposure. The organization expects corporate transparency rules requiring disclosure of ownership interests in companies, proposed H-2A changes and a myriad of issues before the Supreme Court as ones to watch for 2024.

The Waters of the U.S. rule rewrite topped the list of agricultural issues for the National Agricultural Law Center in 2023. While WOTUS was the top issue for 2024, California’s Proposition 12 came in second, with the one-year Farm Bill extension third. The organization listed EPA’s rollout of the Endangered Species Protection Program and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act fourth. Other top issues include the Arkansas foreign ownership of land restrictions, competition in the livestock sector and water use from the Colorado River. Right to repair gained traction as farmers continued to advocate for the right to access manufacturer-controlled tools and information. The list rounds out with growth in the industrial hemp sector and civil litigation over pesticides, such as glyphosate exposure. The organization expects corporate transparency rules requiring disclosure of ownership interests in companies, proposed H-2A changes and a myriad of issues before the Supreme Court as ones to watch for 2024.- NAFB