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

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

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

For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.

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

USDA to Start Issuing Pandemic Assistance Payments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boehringer Ingelheim warns about coming federal salmonella rules

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

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

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

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

Report: 2 million participants could be turned away from WIC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Population and Income Drive World Food Production Projections

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

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

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

Fuel Prices Post 12 Weeks of Decline

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

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

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

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

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

Despite Rising Wage Rate, Farmers Must Rely on H-2A Program

New York City has a plan in place to become the first city on the East Coast to transition all heavy-duty vehicles in the city’s fleet from fossil to renewable fuel. The fleet includes more than 12,600 on- and off-road trucks and specialized equipment that operates on diesel fuel. 

By the end of 2024, they’ll all operate on renewable diesel. Renewable diesel is proven to reduce carbon emissions and will replace up to 16 million gallons of fossil fuel used annually to power the city’s heavy-duty fleet, which includes garbage trucks and ambulances. After the full rollout of 16 million gallons of renewable diesel, the city will have cut 128 billion grams of carbon dioxide pollution each year. 

The transition already began in September with 2.5 million gallons of renewable diesel already used across heavy-duty vehicles. Renewable diesel fully replaces fossil diesel, protecting the environment and delivering the same quality fuel.

New York City has a plan in place to become the first city on the East Coast to transition all heavy-duty vehicles in the city’s fleet from fossil to renewable fuel. The fleet includes more than 12,600 on- and off-road trucks and specialized equipment that operates on diesel fuel. By the end of 2024, they’ll all operate on renewable diesel. Renewable diesel is proven to reduce carbon emissions and will replace up to 16 million gallons of fossil fuel used annually to power the city’s heavy-duty fleet, which includes garbage trucks and ambulances. After the full rollout of 16 million gallons of renewable diesel, the city will have cut 128 billion grams of carbon dioxide pollution each year. The transition already began in September with 2.5 million gallons of renewable diesel already used across heavy-duty vehicles. Renewable diesel fully replaces fossil diesel, protecting the environment and delivering the same quality fuel.- NAFB

New York City moving to renewable diesel

The National Corn Growers Association joined 57 organizations in urging the International Trade Commission to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer are having on farms. 

The concerns were expressed in a letter that comes after the ITC was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider its determination of material injury in a decision issued earlier in September. “Rising prices for fertilizer inputs have strained America’s farmers and ranchers and have impacted availability for this critical component of nutrient and yield management,” the letter says. 

“Without predictable options to source this product, farmers struggle to plan for the future.” The groups noted that issues surrounding the international supply chain further complicate farmers’ ability to source phosphate. It also says the ITC originally made some inferences on the ability to re-ship products that are not grounded in reality. Efforts to reduce the duties will continue for months.

The National Corn Growers Association joined 57 organizations in urging the International Trade Commission to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan fertilizer are having on farms. The concerns were expressed in a letter that comes after the ITC was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider its determination of material injury in a decision issued earlier in September. “Rising prices for fertilizer inputs have strained America’s farmers and ranchers and have impacted availability for this critical component of nutrient and yield management,” the letter says. “Without predictable options to source this product, farmers struggle to plan for the future.” The groups noted that issues surrounding the international supply chain further complicate farmers’ ability to source phosphate. It also says the ITC originally made some inferences on the ability to re-ship products that are not grounded in reality. Efforts to reduce the duties will continue for months.- NAFB

Ag community writes trade commission regarding tariffs

A new report from the EPA’s Hypoxia Task Force shows that the hard work of farmers and ranchers to reduce nutrient losses in the Mississippi River watershed is paying off. The report reveals the 12 participating states have met interim nitrogen reduction goals two years ahead of schedule and are also making considerable progress in bringing down phosphorous losses. 

The goals are part of a comprehensive strategy established by state and federal agencies across the Mississippi River watershed region. Farmers and ranchers were tasked with helping to reduce nutrient losses by 20 percent by 2025. 

“Farmers are problem-solvers by nature, and the work being done in the Mississippi River is proof of what happens when we come together,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “I commend the farmers in each of the states for their instrumental role in making these strides and encourage continued work to meet the 2035 goals.”

A new report from the EPA’s Hypoxia Task Force shows that the hard work of farmers and ranchers to reduce nutrient losses in the Mississippi River watershed is paying off. The report reveals the 12 participating states have met interim nitrogen reduction goals two years ahead of schedule and are also making considerable progress in bringing down phosphorous losses. The goals are part of a comprehensive strategy established by state and federal agencies across the Mississippi River watershed region. Farmers and ranchers were tasked with helping to reduce nutrient losses by 20 percent by 2025. “Farmers are problem-solvers by nature, and the work being done in the Mississippi River is proof of what happens when we come together,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “I commend the farmers in each of the states for their instrumental role in making these strides and encourage continued work to meet the 2035 goals.”- NAFB

Farmers meet nitrogen loss goals two years early

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced USDA is fulfilling some long-standing Tribal requests. Specifically, USDA is partnering with Tribal Nations in empowering Tribal food sovereignty and co-stewardship of federal lands and waters. 

Secretary Vilsack announced the first grant recipients under the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and advances in Forest Service co-stewardship with Tribes, including 120 new agreements totaling more than $68 million in investments. Secretary Vilsack also announced the inaugural appointees of the new Tribal Advisory Committee. Secretary Vilsack made the announcements at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit, where Tribal leaders gathered for conversations with President Biden and senior administration officials. 

Vilsack says, "As Tribes have requested, we are reshaping our programs to incorporate Tribal and Indigenous perspectives, remove barriers, and encourage Tribal self-determination." Vilsack says the investments will create economic opportunities in Tribal communities, elevate the agency's work to increase co-stewardship in forest management, and increase the availability of affordable, healthy protein sources from Indigenous animals.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced USDA is fulfilling some long-standing Tribal requests. Specifically, USDA is partnering with Tribal Nations in empowering Tribal food sovereignty and co-stewardship of federal lands and waters. Secretary Vilsack announced the first grant recipients under the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and advances in Forest Service co-stewardship with Tribes, including 120 new agreements totaling more than $68 million in investments. Secretary Vilsack also announced the inaugural appointees of the new Tribal Advisory Committee. Secretary Vilsack made the announcements at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit, where Tribal leaders gathered for conversations with President Biden and senior administration officials. Vilsack says, "As Tribes have requested, we are reshaping our programs to incorporate Tribal and Indigenous perspectives, remove barriers, and encourage Tribal self-determination." Vilsack says the investments will create economic opportunities in Tribal communities, elevate the agency's work to increase co-stewardship in forest management, and increase the availability of affordable, healthy protein sources from Indigenous animals.- NAFB

USDA fulfills long-standing tribal requests

In 2022, more than a third of U.S. dollars spent on domestically produced food went to foodservice establishments, which includes restaurants and other food-away-from-home outlets. At 34.1 cents per food dollar in 2022, the foodservice share increased 1.6 cents from 2021 to reach its highest value in the USDA, Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. 

Industry groups add value by transforming the inputs they purchase from other industry groups and selling their output at higher prices. For instance, foodservice establishments prepare meals using food bought from distributors, such as those in the wholesale trade industry group, and utilities, such as gas and electricity, bought from establishments in the energy industry group. 

Prices paid by customers include the value added by the restaurant and the cumulative value added by all establishments before the restaurant. Annual shifts in the food dollar shares among industry groups occur for various reasons, including changes in the balance of food at home and away from home.

In 2022, more than a third of U.S. dollars spent on domestically produced food went to foodservice establishments, which includes restaurants and other food-away-from-home outlets. At 34.1 cents per food dollar in 2022, the foodservice share increased 1.6 cents from 2021 to reach its highest value in the USDA, Economic Research Service's Food Dollar Series. Industry groups add value by transforming the inputs they purchase from other industry groups and selling their output at higher prices. For instance, foodservice establishments prepare meals using food bought from distributors, such as those in the wholesale trade industry group, and utilities, such as gas and electricity, bought from establishments in the energy industry group. Prices paid by customers include the value added by the restaurant and the cumulative value added by all establishments before the restaurant. Annual shifts in the food dollar shares among industry groups occur for various reasons, including changes in the balance of food at home and away from home.- NAFB

Foodservice claims largest share of U.S. food dollars

The Department of Agriculture has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless. 

The online application also provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA's Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. 

Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, "With USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations." Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA's Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool.

The Department of Agriculture has launched an online application for Direct Loan customers. More than 26,000 customers who submit a Direct Loan application each year can now use an online, interactive, guided application that is paperless. The online application also provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan. This tool is part of a broader effort by USDA's Farm Service Agency to streamline its processes, improve customer service, and expand credit access. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small says, "With USDA Farm Service Agency's new online loan application feature, it is now easier for producers to get the financing they need to start, expand, or maintain their farming and ranching operations." Through a personalized dashboard, borrowers can track the progress of their loan application. It can be accessed on farmers.gov or by completing FSA's Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/loan-assistance-tool.- NAFB

USDA now accepting applications for farm loans online

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced updated to the Federal Crop Insurance Program. The updates affirm the use of USDA conservation practices as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. 

Recently, USDA’s Risk Management Agency updated the Good Farming Practices Handbook, as part of the agency’s broader efforts to support conservation and climate-smart activities as well as to improve crop insurance for agricultural producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “This update affirms producers can have peace of mind that using conservation practices will not impact their crop insurance.” 

The updated handbook recognizes all conservation practices offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Essentially, appropriate use of NRCS conservation practices will have no impact on crop insurance coverage, which affirms how the rules have worked on the ground for years. The updated handbook builds on similar efforts, including RMA’s designation of planting cover crops as a Good Farming Practice in 2019.

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced updated to the Federal Crop Insurance Program. The updates affirm the use of USDA conservation practices as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Recently, USDA’s Risk Management Agency updated the Good Farming Practices Handbook, as part of the agency’s broader efforts to support conservation and climate-smart activities as well as to improve crop insurance for agricultural producers. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, “This update affirms producers can have peace of mind that using conservation practices will not impact their crop insurance.” The updated handbook recognizes all conservation practices offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as Good Farming Practices for crop insurance. Essentially, appropriate use of NRCS conservation practices will have no impact on crop insurance coverage, which affirms how the rules have worked on the ground for years. The updated handbook builds on similar efforts, including RMA’s designation of planting cover crops as a Good Farming Practice in 2019.- NAFB

USDA announces crop insurance improvements

A representative of Corteva Agriscience says farmers need to make
and stick with a weed control plan for the coming season, maybe now more than
ever.

Corteva Market Development Specialist Ron Geis says sporadic
rains made 2023 challenging.

“The products that we applied at planting time sometimes didn’t
get rained in,” Geis tells KFEQ. “You want to have those planting time
herbicides rained into the soil so that as the weeds take that first water in,
they take herbicide in with it and they get control before they even have a
chance to get started.”

The experience last year should prompt farmers to really think
through what to do going into a new planting season.

“So as we head in 2024, my advice to farmers is let’s make a
good solid plan of a program approach to weed control,” Geis says.

Geis likens it to three cogs in a sprocket. The first is to
start clean by wiping out weeds at planting time. The second:&nbsp; use planting-time residual weed control. And
the third consists of post-emergence weed control.

“So think of the residual herbicide we put on at planting time
is going to give you about 95% kill,” Geis says. “Well, what do we do about the
extra five? That’s when we have to time our post-emerge application, when those
5% escapes are two to three inches tall, not figure on planning when those get
to be a foot tall; we’ve missed our opportunity to control them through the
foliage.”

Weed control likely takes on even more importance during dry
conditions, according to Geis, because drought hampered weed control efforts this
year.

The bottom line, according to Geis:&nbsp; prepare before planting.

“When it comes to weed control, make a good plan, stick with
your plan, and if the plan doesn’t go perfect, clean up those escapes.”

Geis acknowledges we all need a little help from Mother Nature
going into a new year.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA representative of Corteva Agriscience says farmers need to make
and stick with a weed control plan for the coming season, maybe now more than
ever.Corteva Market Development Specialist Ron Geis says sporadic
rains made 2023 challenging.“The products that we applied at planting time sometimes didn’t
get rained in,” Geis tells KFEQ. “You want to have those planting time
herbicides rained into the soil so that as the weeds take that first water in,
they take herbicide in with it and they get control before they even have a
chance to get started.”The experience last year should prompt farmers to really think
through what to do going into a new planting season.“So as we head in 2024, my advice to farmers is let’s make a
good solid plan of a program approach to weed control,” Geis says.Geis likens it to three cogs in a sprocket. The first is to
start clean by wiping out weeds at planting time. The second:&nbsp; use planting-time residual weed control. And
the third consists of post-emergence weed control.“So think of the residual herbicide we put on at planting time
is going to give you about 95% kill,” Geis says. “Well, what do we do about the
extra five? That’s when we have to time our post-emerge application, when those
5% escapes are two to three inches tall, not figure on planning when those get
to be a foot tall; we’ve missed our opportunity to control them through the
foliage.”Weed control likely takes on even more importance during dry
conditions, according to Geis, because drought hampered weed control efforts this
year.The bottom line, according to Geis:&nbsp; prepare before planting.“When it comes to weed control, make a good plan, stick with
your plan, and if the plan doesn’t go perfect, clean up those escapes.”Geis acknowledges we all need a little help from Mother Nature
going into a new year.

Corteva advises farmers to plan weed control as they prepare for 2024

A group of lawmakers this week expressed concerns regarding the Department of Agriculture's requirements for the Emergency Relief Program. In a letter to USDA, Republican Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and Republican Representative Jodey Arrington of Texas led the effort. 

The lawmakers say USDA's 2022 Emergency Relief Program requirements are misguided and losing sight of the relief program's intent outlined by Congress when it was created. The Biden Administration's USDA made requirements that have nothing to do with helping farmers deal with natural disasters. In fact, by the USDA attaching excessive conditions to receive aid, this federal relief program could force farmers to wait even longer for assistance or completely jeopardize their ability to access the program. 

The letter states, “American producers have experienced significant losses, and the Administration has taken an approach that does not reflect Congressional intent.” The lawmakers “strongly request the USDA abandon this current program” and implement the framework of 2021 ERP Phase 1 as quickly as possible.

A group of lawmakers this week expressed concerns regarding the Department of Agriculture's requirements for the Emergency Relief Program. In a letter to USDA, Republican Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and Republican Representative Jodey Arrington of Texas led the effort. The lawmakers say USDA's 2022 Emergency Relief Program requirements are misguided and losing sight of the relief program's intent outlined by Congress when it was created. The Biden Administration's USDA made requirements that have nothing to do with helping farmers deal with natural disasters. In fact, by the USDA attaching excessive conditions to receive aid, this federal relief program could force farmers to wait even longer for assistance or completely jeopardize their ability to access the program. The letter states, “American producers have experienced significant losses, and the Administration has taken an approach that does not reflect Congressional intent.” The lawmakers “strongly request the USDA abandon this current program” and implement the framework of 2021 ERP Phase 1 as quickly as possible.- NAFB

Lawmakers request new USDA emergency relief program

The Department of Agriculture and the Food Research and Action Center have teamed up to award five organizations $1.1 million. The grants aim to research barriers to equitable access in the federal child nutrition programs and identify strategies to eliminate them. 

The efforts to improve food security for school children and children in childcare settings are critical to fueling the health and development of our nation's children, according to USDA. These programs, including USDA's National School Lunch Program, are instrumental in reducing childhood hunger. 

Many eligible children are either not participating in the programs or do not have programs available to them. The services delivered can vary by community, which could make inequities for historically and currently marginalized communities worse. Grants were awarded to Johns Hopkins University, Trustees of Indiana University, San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, Hunger Solutions Minnesota, and Feeding Kentucky.

The Department of Agriculture and the Food Research and Action Center have teamed up to award five organizations $1.1 million. The grants aim to research barriers to equitable access in the federal child nutrition programs and identify strategies to eliminate them. The efforts to improve food security for school children and children in childcare settings are critical to fueling the health and development of our nation's children, according to USDA. These programs, including USDA's National School Lunch Program, are instrumental in reducing childhood hunger. Many eligible children are either not participating in the programs or do not have programs available to them. The services delivered can vary by community, which could make inequities for historically and currently marginalized communities worse. Grants were awarded to Johns Hopkins University, Trustees of Indiana University, San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, Hunger Solutions Minnesota, and Feeding Kentucky.- NABThe Department of Agriculture and the Food Research and Action Center have teamed up to award five organizations $1.1 million. The grants aim to research barriers to equitable access in the federal child nutrition programs and identify strategies to eliminate them. The efforts to improve food security for school children and children in childcare settings are critical to fueling the health and development of our nation's children, according to USDA. These programs, including USDA's National School Lunch Program, are instrumental in reducing childhood hunger. Many eligible children are either not participating in the programs or do not have programs available to them. The services delivered can vary by community, which could make inequities for historically and currently marginalized communities worse. Grants were awarded to Johns Hopkins University, Trustees of Indiana University, San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, Hunger Solutions Minnesota, and Feeding Kentucky.- NAFB

USDA announces grants to increase equitable access to healthy meals for children

Differences in the photosynthetic "machinery" of certain crop plants can make them more or less prone to harm caused by ground-level ozone pollution. The research was developed by USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and University of Illinois scientists in Urbana-Champaign. 

The findings—that so-called "C4" crops like corn and sorghum tolerate increased ozone levels better than "C3" crops, like rice or snap beans—open the door to better models for predicting crop responses to the effects of global climate change, as well as developing more resilient varieties that can sustain humanity’s increasing demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel. 

While both C3 and C4 crops use the enzyme called rubisco to convert carbon dioxide into sugars, C4 crops isolate rubisco in specialized cells where the concentration of carbon dioxide is very high. This enables higher rates of photosynthesis and greater efficiency of water use. Thus, C4 plants have lower stomatal conductance, resulting in less diffusion of carbon dioxide and ozone into leaves.

Differences in the photosynthetic "machinery" of certain crop plants can make them more or less prone to harm caused by ground-level ozone pollution. The research was developed by USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and University of Illinois scientists in Urbana-Champaign. The findings—that so-called "C4" crops like corn and sorghum tolerate increased ozone levels better than "C3" crops, like rice or snap beans—open the door to better models for predicting crop responses to the effects of global climate change, as well as developing more resilient varieties that can sustain humanity’s increasing demand for food, feed, fiber and fuel. While both C3 and C4 crops use the enzyme called rubisco to convert carbon dioxide into sugars, C4 crops isolate rubisco in specialized cells where the concentration of carbon dioxide is very high. This enables higher rates of photosynthesis and greater efficiency of water use. Thus, C4 plants have lower stomatal conductance, resulting in less diffusion of carbon dioxide and ozone into leaves.- NAFB

Some crops tolerate ozone pollution better

The Iowa Corn Growers Association is proud to be a partner for the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in the state. The “Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol” will showcase ethanol’s performance at the fastest short track on the planet, which is surrounded by corn fields. 

“I’m pleased to share why choosing higher ethanol blends benefits everyone,” says Stan Nelson, president of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “We can make a sustainable difference today without buying a new vehicle, but by simply choosing instead to fuel up with ethanol at the pump.” 

He also says ethanol is the most affordable fuel option on the market today. The race will take place at 6 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, June 16, 2024, and be shown live on the USA Network. “This race will give us as farmers a platform to share the benefits of ethanol,” says Jolene Riessen, President of the Iowa Corn Growers.

The Iowa Corn Growers Association is proud to be a partner for the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in the state. The “Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol” will showcase ethanol’s performance at the fastest short track on the planet, which is surrounded by corn fields. “I’m pleased to share why choosing higher ethanol blends benefits everyone,” says Stan Nelson, president of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. “We can make a sustainable difference today without buying a new vehicle, but by simply choosing instead to fuel up with ethanol at the pump.” He also says ethanol is the most affordable fuel option on the market today. The race will take place at 6 p.m. Central Time on Sunday, June 16, 2024, and be shown live on the USA Network. “This race will give us as farmers a platform to share the benefits of ethanol,” says Jolene Riessen, President of the Iowa Corn Growers.- NAFB

Iowa corn sponsors first NASCAR Cup Race in the state

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will begin mailing the 2023 Census of Aquaculture forms starting December 18. The agency will mail the forms to all producers who indicated in their 2022 Census of Agriculture that they produce and sell aquaculture products. 

The deadline to respond will be January 15, 2024. An ag census special study, the Census of Aquaculture will provide comprehensive data at the state and national levels, including production volumes and methods, surface water acres and sources, and sales. Federal, state, and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, and producers can use this data. 

“The information that respondents provide will serve as the foundation for many decisions involving the sustainability and growth of the aquaculture sector for years to come,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “It’s an opportunity to share your voice with decision-makers.” The agency made survey responses more convenient with their online Respondent Portal at accounts.usda.gov.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will begin mailing the 2023 Census of Aquaculture forms starting December 18. The agency will mail the forms to all producers who indicated in their 2022 Census of Agriculture that they produce and sell aquaculture products. The deadline to respond will be January 15, 2024. An ag census special study, the Census of Aquaculture will provide comprehensive data at the state and national levels, including production volumes and methods, surface water acres and sources, and sales. Federal, state, and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, and producers can use this data. “The information that respondents provide will serve as the foundation for many decisions involving the sustainability and growth of the aquaculture sector for years to come,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “It’s an opportunity to share your voice with decision-makers.” The agency made survey responses more convenient with their online Respondent Portal at accounts.usda.gov.- NAFB

USDA to conduct the 2023 census of aquaculture

Farm debt balances at commercial banks grew steadily in the third quarter, but loan performance remained strong in the Kansas City Fed’s District. Despite some indications of slower lending activity in recent surveys and subdued loan demand for some lenders, outstanding debt at commercial banks, in aggregate, grew at a pace similar to last year. 

Alongside ongoing strength in farm finances, delinquency rates on agricultural loans dropped for the third consecutive year and remained at historically low levels. Steady loan growth has coincided with a pullback in deposit growth and firmed liquidity at agricultural banks. Profits for agricultural banks have stayed solid with support from higher interest income.

 The balance of agricultural debt continued to increase alongside a growing demand for production loans. According to commercial bank Call Reports, farm debt was five percent higher than the same time last year and increased at a similar pace for almost two years.

Farm debt balances at commercial banks grew steadily in the third quarter, but loan performance remained strong in the Kansas City Fed’s District. Despite some indications of slower lending activity in recent surveys and subdued loan demand for some lenders, outstanding debt at commercial banks, in aggregate, grew at a pace similar to last year. Alongside ongoing strength in farm finances, delinquency rates on agricultural loans dropped for the third consecutive year and remained at historically low levels. Steady loan growth has coincided with a pullback in deposit growth and firmed liquidity at agricultural banks. Profits for agricultural banks have stayed solid with support from higher interest income. The balance of agricultural debt continued to increase alongside a growing demand for production loans. According to commercial bank Call Reports, farm debt was five percent higher than the same time last year and increased at a similar pace for almost two years.- NAFB

Farm loan performance strong as debt grows

Farmers look forward to a better 2024 after struggling through
two years of dry conditions, which at times entered into drought.

Director of Business Operations for BASF, Nick Schweizer, says
farmers will need a sharp pencil entering a new year.

“Paying very close attention to operating costs,” Schweizer
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, those decisions are so much more critical this
year, because normally a grower operating loan, what I hear they’re paying is
6-to-8% interest rate on that and three years ago it was half that. So, those
decisions are super, super critical now.”

The amount of operating loans taken out by farmers is down,
which leaves Schweizer to believe farmers have been dipping into savings.

Schweizer says the company is attempting to adjust to help
farmers feeling a bit of a squeeze preparing for a new production year.

“Any BASF product that’s purchased between now and March 15th
gets a 1.99% interest rate, any after that it’s a 2.99% with terms due at the
end of the harvest,” Schweizer says. “So, it fits right in with their
operation.”

Schweizer advises farmers to set aside worries and plan,
including planning for managing weeds.

A new product by BASF, which has been 10 years in the making,
should come on the market next year, according to Schweizer.

“We hope to get registration in 2024 on Surtain herbicide and
Surtain herbicide is our next generation Kixor-related technology,” Schweizer
says. “And why is Surtain more interesting? Well, it’s because of this very
first solid encapsulation technology which means you open up the window of
application on Kixor. So, if I’m a corn grower and I want to use Kixor, I can
now use it pre-and-post emergence.”

BASF also hopes to register Liberty Ultra for the 2024 soybean
crop.

“Which is a patented technology and what happens is the
droplets hit the leaf and they’re much more sticky and they spread much
easier,” Schweitzer says. “And so your coverage improves quite significantly.”

Schweizer says Liberty Ultra will provide greater coverage
with lower usage rates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701708104792.jpeg" alt="BASF photo" />
 <figcaption>BASF photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFarmers look forward to a better 2024 after struggling through
two years of dry conditions, which at times entered into drought.Director of Business Operations for BASF, Nick Schweizer, says
farmers will need a sharp pencil entering a new year.“Paying very close attention to operating costs,” Schweizer
tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, those decisions are so much more critical this
year, because normally a grower operating loan, what I hear they’re paying is
6-to-8% interest rate on that and three years ago it was half that. So, those
decisions are super, super critical now.”The amount of operating loans taken out by farmers is down,
which leaves Schweizer to believe farmers have been dipping into savings.Schweizer says the company is attempting to adjust to help
farmers feeling a bit of a squeeze preparing for a new production year.“Any BASF product that’s purchased between now and March 15th
gets a 1.99% interest rate, any after that it’s a 2.99% with terms due at the
end of the harvest,” Schweizer says. “So, it fits right in with their
operation.”Schweizer advises farmers to set aside worries and plan,
including planning for managing weeds.A new product by BASF, which has been 10 years in the making,
should come on the market next year, according to Schweizer.“We hope to get registration in 2024 on Surtain herbicide and
Surtain herbicide is our next generation Kixor-related technology,” Schweizer
says. “And why is Surtain more interesting? Well, it’s because of this very
first solid encapsulation technology which means you open up the window of
application on Kixor. So, if I’m a corn grower and I want to use Kixor, I can
now use it pre-and-post emergence.”BASF also hopes to register Liberty Ultra for the 2024 soybean
crop.“Which is a patented technology and what happens is the
droplets hit the leaf and they’re much more sticky and they spread much
easier,” Schweitzer says. “And so your coverage improves quite significantly.”Schweizer says Liberty Ultra will provide greater coverage
with lower usage rates.

Farmers look forward to a new planting season after back-to-back dry years

Farmers look ahead to 2024, hoping to put back-to-back dry
years behind them.

Norborne farmer Kyle Durham is past chair of the Missouri
Soybean Merchandizing Council and says dry to drought conditions throughout the
Midwest are creating some very real problems for crop production.

“Any time you have back-to-back dry years like we’ve had,
there’s always a concern that the reservoirs are just kind of depleted, that
the subsoil moisture becomes a problem,” Durham tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

The US Drought Monitor has all of northwest Missouri in
moderate drought with much of Nodaway and Gentry Counties considered in severe
drought. Northeast Kansas also is in moderate drought with all of Jefferson and
much of Atchison and Jackson Counties considered in severe drought. Though
southeast Nebraska is considered in only abnormally dry to moderate drought
conditions, not far to the west in Nebraska you enter extreme to exceptional
drought conditions. Southwest Iowa, at present, is considered to be in moderate
drought conditions with a few areas pushing into severe drought territory.

Durham says his farm near Norborne had very surprising soybean
yields this year, despite the extreme heat and dry conditions.

“And going into the first of August the pods that we did have
set they were flat. I mean, there just wasn’t anything to them,” according to
Durham. “So, when we got those rains that first weekend in August, if you are
going to call anything a million-dollar rain, that was it.”

Durham says improved genetics in crops have helped corn and
soybeans better absorb whatever rain they do get.

Durham says northwest Missouri as well as northeast Kansas
avoided some of the worst of the dry weather.

“We, as farmers, I think are getting better too at adapting
our practices, certainly moving toward more no-till and minimum-till so that we
can hold that moisture in the soil as best we can without stirring it up and
losing it,” Durham says.

Economic pressures have increased as well, according to
Durham, who says farmers have had to deal with inflation increasing the cost of
inputs, such as seed, fertilizer, herbicides, and fuel. The prices paid farmers
can turn volatile he says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701707202346.jpeg" alt="File photo of soybean field" />
 <figcaption>File photo of soybean field</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFarmers look ahead to 2024, hoping to put back-to-back dry
years behind them.Norborne farmer Kyle Durham is past chair of the Missouri
Soybean Merchandizing Council and says dry to drought conditions throughout the
Midwest are creating some very real problems for crop production.“Any time you have back-to-back dry years like we’ve had,
there’s always a concern that the reservoirs are just kind of depleted, that
the subsoil moisture becomes a problem,” Durham tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.The US Drought Monitor has all of northwest Missouri in
moderate drought with much of Nodaway and Gentry Counties considered in severe
drought. Northeast Kansas also is in moderate drought with all of Jefferson and
much of Atchison and Jackson Counties considered in severe drought. Though
southeast Nebraska is considered in only abnormally dry to moderate drought
conditions, not far to the west in Nebraska you enter extreme to exceptional
drought conditions. Southwest Iowa, at present, is considered to be in moderate
drought conditions with a few areas pushing into severe drought territory.Durham says his farm near Norborne had very surprising soybean
yields this year, despite the extreme heat and dry conditions.“And going into the first of August the pods that we did have
set they were flat. I mean, there just wasn’t anything to them,” according to
Durham. “So, when we got those rains that first weekend in August, if you are
going to call anything a million-dollar rain, that was it.”Durham says improved genetics in crops have helped corn and
soybeans better absorb whatever rain they do get.Durham says northwest Missouri as well as northeast Kansas
avoided some of the worst of the dry weather.“We, as farmers, I think are getting better too at adapting
our practices, certainly moving toward more no-till and minimum-till so that we
can hold that moisture in the soil as best we can without stirring it up and
losing it,” Durham says.Economic pressures have increased as well, according to
Durham, who says farmers have had to deal with inflation increasing the cost of
inputs, such as seed, fertilizer, herbicides, and fuel. The prices paid farmers
can turn volatile he says.

Farmers look for a break in the drought and inflation in 2024

The USDA is providing approximately $208 million in financial assistance for qualifying farm and emergency loan borrowers. To help prevent foreclosures, USDA will cover approximately $80 million in delinquencies for an estimated 210 borrowers whose loans were flagged for liquidation as of November 30. 

USDA will also provide roughly $128 million for an estimated 1,120 borrowers with outstanding direct Emergency Loans as of November 30. Any distressed borrowers who qualify for this assistance and are currently in bankruptcy will get addressed using the same case-by-case review process announced in October 2022 for complex cases. “We’re working hard every day to keep farmers on their farms,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. 

“We continue to work on credit reforms centered around a better approach, and I encourage our lenders and borrowers to capitalize on all available flexibilities.” Borrowers can submit requests in person or by sending a request using portals found on farmers.gov.

The USDA is providing approximately $208 million in financial assistance for qualifying farm and emergency loan borrowers. To help prevent foreclosures, USDA will cover approximately $80 million in delinquencies for an estimated 210 borrowers whose loans were flagged for liquidation as of November 30. USDA will also provide roughly $128 million for an estimated 1,120 borrowers with outstanding direct Emergency Loans as of November 30. Any distressed borrowers who qualify for this assistance and are currently in bankruptcy will get addressed using the same case-by-case review process announced in October 2022 for complex cases. “We’re working hard every day to keep farmers on their farms,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We continue to work on credit reforms centered around a better approach, and I encourage our lenders and borrowers to capitalize on all available flexibilities.” Borrowers can submit requests in person or by sending a request using portals found on farmers.gov.- NAFB