The Department of Agriculture seeks public comment on how it should implement Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act. 

The provision aims to assist the nation’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs. 

Section 22007 provides a transformative opportunity for USDA to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners impacted by discrimination in USDA farm lending programs. 

IRA Section 22007 directs USDA to provide financial assistance to producers who have experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs and has appropriated $2.2 billion for this purpose. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “These actions further build on USDA’s commitment to use all the tools it has available to help farmers.” 

The request for information in the Federal Register asks several questions on how USDA should design and administer the program. The 30-day comment period opens Friday, October 14, and closes on November 14, 2022. USDA values your input and welcomes all comments.

The Department of Agriculture seeks public comment on how it should implement Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act. The provision aims to assist the nation’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs. Section 22007 provides a transformative opportunity for USDA to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners impacted by discrimination in USDA farm lending programs. IRA Section 22007 directs USDA to provide financial assistance to producers who have experienced discrimination in USDA’s farm lending programs and has appropriated $2.2 billion for this purpose. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “These actions further build on USDA’s commitment to use all the tools it has available to help farmers.” The request for information in the Federal Register asks several questions on how USDA should design and administer the program. The 30-day comment period opens Friday, October 14, and closes on November 14, 2022. USDA values your input and welcomes all comments.

USDA seeks comment on program assisting producers who have experienced discrimination

New data from the Department of Agriculture shows Florida accounted for 1.7 percent of U.S. farm sector cash receipts in 2021. 

USDA's Economic Research Service estimates the previous year's farm sector cash receipts—the cash income received from agricultural commodity sales. 

The data includes state-level estimates, which offer background information about states subject to unexpected events that affect the agricultural sector, such as Hurricane Ian. 

In 2021, commodities produced in Florida contributed about $7.5 billion, or 1.7 percent, of the $434 billion in total U.S. cash receipts. Floriculture, the cultivation of flowers, accounted for the largest share of Florida's cash receipts, valued at $1.1 billion. 

The next largest commodities in Florida in terms of cash receipts were oranges, at $670 million, sugarcane at $553 million, cattle and calves at $546 million, and milk $470 million. Florida led the nation in cash receipts for sugarcane, cabbage, cucumbers, watermelon, sweet corn, and snap beans.

New data from the Department of Agriculture shows Florida accounted for 1.7 percent of U.S. farm sector cash receipts in 2021. USDA's Economic Research Service estimates the previous year's farm sector cash receipts—the cash income received from agricultural commodity sales. The data includes state-level estimates, which offer background information about states subject to unexpected events that affect the agricultural sector, such as Hurricane Ian. In 2021, commodities produced in Florida contributed about $7.5 billion, or 1.7 percent, of the $434 billion in total U.S. cash receipts. Floriculture, the cultivation of flowers, accounted for the largest share of Florida's cash receipts, valued at $1.1 billion. The next largest commodities in Florida in terms of cash receipts were oranges, at $670 million, sugarcane at $553 million, cattle and calves at $546 million, and milk $470 million. Florida led the nation in cash receipts for sugarcane, cabbage, cucumbers, watermelon, sweet corn, and snap beans.

Florida accounted for 1.7 percent of U.S. farm sector cash receipts in 2021

Combine harvester sales rose during September in both the U.S. and Canada, while total tractor sales fell in both countries. 

Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag equipment unit sales stayed above the five-year average for the second month since April. 

Total farm tractor sales fell 12.8 percent in September compared to last year, while U.S. self-propelled combine sales for the month rose 6.6 percent, slowing gains made in August. 

The 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive tractor segment was once again the only positive segment in the U.S., up 9.6 percent from August. In Canada, growth was led by combine harvesters, up 105 percent. Overall unit sales for tractors were down one percent. 

“The ag equipment market, as with most markets for manufactured goods, is turbulent,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president of industry sectors and product leadership with AEM. “Supply chain difficulties continue to weigh on manufacturers’ deliveries.”

Combine harvester sales rose during September in both the U.S. and Canada, while total tractor sales fell in both countries. Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag equipment unit sales stayed above the five-year average for the second month since April. Total farm tractor sales fell 12.8 percent in September compared to last year, while U.S. self-propelled combine sales for the month rose 6.6 percent, slowing gains made in August. The 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive tractor segment was once again the only positive segment in the U.S., up 9.6 percent from August. In Canada, growth was led by combine harvesters, up 105 percent. Overall unit sales for tractors were down one percent. “The ag equipment market, as with most markets for manufactured goods, is turbulent,” says Curt Blades, senior vice president of industry sectors and product leadership with AEM. “Supply chain difficulties continue to weigh on manufacturers’ deliveries.”

Combine sales grow, tractor sales drop in September

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association denounced Google’s decision to bias consumers against beef through their new sustainability search feature. 

NCBA says that feature provides inaccurate climate information about cattle production. 

“Google is using its billions of dollars of resources to target cattle producers and ignore the science that demonstrates beef’s sustainability and value to the environment,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein. 

“Cattle producers have a record of continuous improvement, which has led to the U.S. recording the lowest global greenhouse gas emissions from beef while contributing to the world’s food security.” 

NCBA also says cattle production protects green space, upcycles grass and forages, and provides consumers with a lean source of protein packed with essential nutrients. 

“Google should seriously reconsider this feature,” Schiefelbein adds. NCBA points out that livestock play an important role in protecting open spaces and accounts for only a very small portion of greenhouse gas emissions.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association denounced Google’s decision to bias consumers against beef through their new sustainability search feature. NCBA says that feature provides inaccurate climate information about cattle production. “Google is using its billions of dollars of resources to target cattle producers and ignore the science that demonstrates beef’s sustainability and value to the environment,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein. “Cattle producers have a record of continuous improvement, which has led to the U.S. recording the lowest global greenhouse gas emissions from beef while contributing to the world’s food security.” NCBA also says cattle production protects green space, upcycles grass and forages, and provides consumers with a lean source of protein packed with essential nutrients. “Google should seriously reconsider this feature,” Schiefelbein adds. NCBA points out that livestock play an important role in protecting open spaces and accounts for only a very small portion of greenhouse gas emissions.

NCBA says Google feature misrepresents beef

The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters rejected a tentative labor contract brokered between rail carriers and workers’ union reps. 

The third-largest rail workers union in the country was the first union to say no to a deal brokered in part by the Biden administration. 

The union voted the deal down 6,646 to 5,100. President Tony Cardwell told Politico that workers “resent the fact that management holds no regard for their quality of life, illustrated by their stubborn reluctance to provide a higher quantity of paid time off, especially for sickness.” 

Negotiations will restart, resetting the countdown on a potential strike. The union says it will delay any strike until five days after Congress reconvenes. 

Four other unions approved the tentative agreement. However, every one of the 12 unions representing employees must ratify their contracts to prevent a strike. Voting will be finished by mid-November.

The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters rejected a tentative labor contract brokered between rail carriers and workers’ union reps. The third-largest rail workers union in the country was the first union to say no to a deal brokered in part by the Biden administration. The union voted the deal down 6,646 to 5,100. President Tony Cardwell told Politico that workers “resent the fact that management holds no regard for their quality of life, illustrated by their stubborn reluctance to provide a higher quantity of paid time off, especially for sickness.” Negotiations will restart, resetting the countdown on a potential strike. The union says it will delay any strike until five days after Congress reconvenes. Four other unions approved the tentative agreement. However, every one of the 12 unions representing employees must ratify their contracts to prevent a strike. Voting will be finished by mid-November.

Railroad Union votes down labor contract, strike looming

New research from USDA’s Economic Research Service announced Tuesday shows global food insecurity increased by nearly ten percent in fiscal year 2022. 

USDA’s International Food Security Assessment model estimates how food prices and incomes affect food demand and access in 77 low- and middle-income countries. Food security is then evaluated by estimating the population unable to access sufficient calories to sustain a healthy, active lifestyle. Of the people in countries included in the 2022 assessment, almost 119 million more people are estimated to be food insecure compared to 2021. 

The upward trend in international prices for wheat, coarse grains, and vegetable oils during the 2021/22 marketing year has been further exacerbated by Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, which reduced exports of the commodities from the Black Sea region. Domestic prices of major grains in 2022 are projected to rise in 70 of the 77 countries included in the assessment, with the North Africa region being the most affected.

New research from USDA’s Economic Research Service announced Tuesday shows global food insecurity increased by nearly ten percent in fiscal year 2022. USDA’s International Food Security Assessment model estimates how food prices and incomes affect food demand and access in 77 low- and middle-income countries. Food security is then evaluated by estimating the population unable to access sufficient calories to sustain a healthy, active lifestyle. Of the people in countries included in the 2022 assessment, almost 119 million more people are estimated to be food insecure compared to 2021. The upward trend in international prices for wheat, coarse grains, and vegetable oils during the 2021/22 marketing year has been further exacerbated by Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, which reduced exports of the commodities from the Black Sea region. Domestic prices of major grains in 2022 are projected to rise in 70 of the 77 countries included in the assessment, with the North Africa region being the most affected.

Global food insecurity increased nearly 10 Percent in 2022

The Biden Administration Tuesday provided $50 million in grants for schools to invest in new food service equipment that will allow them to continue serving nutritious meals. 

The funding adds to the $30 million equipment grants the administration gave schools earlier this year. The announcement comes during National School Lunch Week, as designated by President Joe Biden. The added support for school meals and child nutrition builds on the momentum from last month's White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, where the administration unveiled a national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related disease by 2030. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Ensuring access to nutritious school meals is one of the best investments we can make in our fight to end child hunger and improve health." USDA provides grant funds to states, which use a competitive application process to award them to school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program.

The Biden Administration Tuesday provided $50 million in grants for schools to invest in new food service equipment that will allow them to continue serving nutritious meals. The funding adds to the $30 million equipment grants the administration gave schools earlier this year. The announcement comes during National School Lunch Week, as designated by President Joe Biden. The added support for school meals and child nutrition builds on the momentum from last month's White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, where the administration unveiled a national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related disease by 2030. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Ensuring access to nutritious school meals is one of the best investments we can make in our fight to end child hunger and improve health." USDA provides grant funds to states, which use a competitive application process to award them to school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program.

Biden Administration invests $80 Million to improve nutrition in school meals

Agriculture groups argued against California's Proposition 12 to the Supreme Court Tuesday. 

The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council challenged the ability of one state to set agricultural production standards for the entire country. California's Proposition 12 law bans the sale of pork from hogs that don't meet the state's arbitrary production standards, even if the hogs were raised outside of California. 

AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, "Proposition 12's misguided approach will ultimately cost every family through higher food prices." The National Cattlemen's Beef Association also supports AFBF and NPPC. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While this case is not focused on cattle producers, the precedent set by the court will determine all producers' ability to engage in interstate commerce." 

Earlier this year, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the court arguing that California's mandates on livestock production methods violated the dormant commerce clause of the Constitution.

Agriculture groups argued against California's Proposition 12 to the Supreme Court Tuesday. The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council challenged the ability of one state to set agricultural production standards for the entire country. California's Proposition 12 law bans the sale of pork from hogs that don't meet the state's arbitrary production standards, even if the hogs were raised outside of California. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, "Proposition 12's misguided approach will ultimately cost every family through higher food prices." The National Cattlemen's Beef Association also supports AFBF and NPPC. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, "While this case is not focused on cattle producers, the precedent set by the court will determine all producers' ability to engage in interstate commerce." Earlier this year, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the court arguing that California's mandates on livestock production methods violated the dormant commerce clause of the Constitution.

Ag groups argue against Prop 12 in Supreme Court

The nation’s average gas price climbed for the third straight week, rising 13.8 cents from a week ago to $3.92 per gallon. The national average is up 22.5 cents from a month ago and 67.0 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel increased 18.0 cents in the last week to $5.04 per gallon. OPEC+ decided to cut oil production by two million barrels a day recently, causing an oil price surge of 20 percent, largely the reason for the increase in fuel prices. 

However, some refinery issues that increased prices appear to be improving in the West and Great Lakes. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “prices in those two regions are likely to inch down, even with OPEC’s decision, as the drop in wholesale prices has offset the rise due to the production cut.” According to GasBuddy, U.S. retail gasoline demand fell last week by 0.3 percent.

The nation’s average gas price climbed for the third straight week, rising 13.8 cents from a week ago to $3.92 per gallon. The national average is up 22.5 cents from a month ago and 67.0 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 18.0 cents in the last week to $5.04 per gallon. OPEC+ decided to cut oil production by two million barrels a day recently, causing an oil price surge of 20 percent, largely the reason for the increase in fuel prices. However, some refinery issues that increased prices appear to be improving in the West and Great Lakes. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “prices in those two regions are likely to inch down, even with OPEC’s decision, as the drop in wholesale prices has offset the rise due to the production cut.” According to GasBuddy, U.S. retail gasoline demand fell last week by 0.3 percent.

National average fuel prices edge higher again

The Mosaic Company recently announced that North American Phosphates was negatively impacted by damage caused by Hurricane Ian. Significant flooding and high winds were experienced throughout central Florida during the storm, and this caused modest damage to Mosaic Company facilities and supporting infrastructure.

 Early assessments indicate phosphate production could be down by approximately 200,000-250,000 metric tons, split roughly evenly between the third and fourth quarters of 2022. Repairs are expected to be completed over the next couple of weeks. In addition to production impacts, the timing of shipments was also affected by the storm. 

Phosphates sales volumes in the third quarter are now expected to total 1.60-1.65 million metric tons, as port and rail closures delayed late third quarter shipments to October. Mosaic plans to provide further updates when it reports third quarter results. The Mosaic company produces fertilizers in West Central Florida, where Hurricane Ian made landfall late last month.

The Mosaic Company recently announced that North American Phosphates was negatively impacted by damage caused by Hurricane Ian. Significant flooding and high winds were experienced throughout central Florida during the storm, and this caused modest damage to Mosaic Company facilities and supporting infrastructure. Early assessments indicate phosphate production could be down by approximately 200,000-250,000 metric tons, split roughly evenly between the third and fourth quarters of 2022. Repairs are expected to be completed over the next couple of weeks. In addition to production impacts, the timing of shipments was also affected by the storm. Phosphates sales volumes in the third quarter are now expected to total 1.60-1.65 million metric tons, as port and rail closures delayed late third quarter shipments to October. Mosaic plans to provide further updates when it reports third quarter results. The Mosaic company produces fertilizers in West Central Florida, where Hurricane Ian made landfall late last month.

Mosaic Company announces Hurricane Ian's impact on its fertilizer producer

Plant-based food is a hot market, but plant-based meat alternative is not, according to a recent study by Deloitte Insights. The researchers say there are many contributing factors, including supply chain problems and a tough comparison point from an impressive prior year. 

However, data from Deloitte's Future of Fresh survey suggests three consumer-driven reasons for the current stagnation. The addressable market may be more limited than many thought. Dramatically improved taste in recent years unlocked new interest, but the portion of the population open to trying and repeat buying it may already have reached a saturation point. 

With inflation, fewer people are willing to pay a price premium. Willingness to pay a premium for plant-based alternative meat dropped nine percentage points from last year. Finally, some assumed benefits are being questioned by consumers. Even buyers of plant-based alternative meat are changing their views on some of its attributes. The biggest change is in health perceptions.

Plant-based food is a hot market, but plant-based meat alternative is not, according to a recent study by Deloitte Insights. The researchers say there are many contributing factors, including supply chain problems and a tough comparison point from an impressive prior year. However, data from Deloitte's Future of Fresh survey suggests three consumer-driven reasons for the current stagnation. The addressable market may be more limited than many thought. Dramatically improved taste in recent years unlocked new interest, but the portion of the population open to trying and repeat buying it may already have reached a saturation point. With inflation, fewer people are willing to pay a price premium. Willingness to pay a premium for plant-based alternative meat dropped nine percentage points from last year. Finally, some assumed benefits are being questioned by consumers. Even buyers of plant-based alternative meat are changing their views on some of its attributes. The biggest change is in health perceptions.

Report: plant-based products appeal wearing off

The largest barge operator in the U.S. told its customers last week that it won’t be able to make good on deliveries due to the shrinking Mississippi River. 

Bloomberg says Ingram Barge Company declared a force majeure in a letter to customers because of the “near-historic” low water along the Mississippi River. 

The river is the top way to get American grains exported to the world market. 

Drought has dropped the water level far enough that ships are beginning to run aground. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to stuck vessels in at least two places, including Stack Island between Louisiana and Mississippi and upriver near Memphis. 

American Commercial Barge Line, another shipping company that uses the river to transport goods, says the drought is causing the most severe impact on navigation since 1988. The logjam comes at the worst time as grain harvest is in progress, and supplies will pile up.

The largest barge operator in the U.S. told its customers last week that it won’t be able to make good on deliveries due to the shrinking Mississippi River. Bloomberg says Ingram Barge Company declared a force majeure in a letter to customers because of the “near-historic” low water along the Mississippi River. The river is the top way to get American grains exported to the world market. Drought has dropped the water level far enough that ships are beginning to run aground. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to stuck vessels in at least two places, including Stack Island between Louisiana and Mississippi and upriver near Memphis. American Commercial Barge Line, another shipping company that uses the river to transport goods, says the drought is causing the most severe impact on navigation since 1988. The logjam comes at the worst time as grain harvest is in progress, and supplies will pile up.

Barge operator can’t make deliveries due to dry Mississippi River

Drought intensified in many of the nation’s top corn-growing states during the past week. 

Nationally, 321.6 million acres of crops are experiencing some level of drought, while more than 31 million beef cattle across the country are living with drought. 

The latest drought monitor map shows a pocket of D2 severe drought emerging in Illinois with poor crop conditions and low hay yield in that region. 

While drought conditions in Texas have improved recently, pockets of D4 exceptional drought are still present in one percent of the state. D3 extreme drought covers 12 percent of Texas. 

Drought also intensified in Minnesota, which saw its first area of D3 extreme drought since last December. Wisconsin’s D2 severe drought in the northwest corner spread out to cover four percent of the state. A small part of Iowa is experiencing D4 exceptional drought, while five percent of the Hawkeye State is experiencing D3 extreme drought.

Drought intensified in many of the nation’s top corn-growing states during the past week. Nationally, 321.6 million acres of crops are experiencing some level of drought, while more than 31 million beef cattle across the country are living with drought. The latest drought monitor map shows a pocket of D2 severe drought emerging in Illinois with poor crop conditions and low hay yield in that region. While drought conditions in Texas have improved recently, pockets of D4 exceptional drought are still present in one percent of the state. D3 extreme drought covers 12 percent of Texas. Drought also intensified in Minnesota, which saw its first area of D3 extreme drought since last December. Wisconsin’s D2 severe drought in the northwest corner spread out to cover four percent of the state. A small part of Iowa is experiencing D4 exceptional drought, while five percent of the Hawkeye State is experiencing D3 extreme drought.

Drought conditions cover 321 million acres of crops

U.S. pork exports in August topped year-ago totals for the first time in 2022. 

USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports were slightly above the large volumes of last August and once again surpassed $1 billion in value. 

“We talk about the importance of developing a wide range of markets for U.S. red meat, and the August numbers are a great example of that,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. 

“Exports face significant headwinds in some key destinations. However, the emphasis on broad-based growth pays dividends and allows the overall export picture to remain positive.” 

Pork exports reached 226,300 metric tons, the largest total since November 2021, while the value rose four percent to $659 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef exports topped 133,800 metric tons, up one percent from last year and the second-largest volume on record, with the export value at just under $1.04 billion.

U.S. pork exports in August topped year-ago totals for the first time in 2022. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports were slightly above the large volumes of last August and once again surpassed $1 billion in value. “We talk about the importance of developing a wide range of markets for U.S. red meat, and the August numbers are a great example of that,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Exports face significant headwinds in some key destinations. However, the emphasis on broad-based growth pays dividends and allows the overall export picture to remain positive.” Pork exports reached 226,300 metric tons, the largest total since November 2021, while the value rose four percent to $659 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef exports topped 133,800 metric tons, up one percent from last year and the second-largest volume on record, with the export value at just under $1.04 billion.

August pork exports higher while beef again tops $1 billion

The Renewable Fuels Association recently filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit over the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the agency seeking a court review of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS for compliance years 2020 through 2022. 

The RFA is intervening on behalf of the agency to help stress the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard. 

The biofuel group’s goal is to “protect EPA’s substantial interest in the integrity of the RFS and investments RFA’s members have made in renewable fuels to support the program,” the motion states. 

“After years of mismanagement and setbacks by previous administrations, the Biden administration’s EPA is moving in the right direction on the RFS,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We’re looking to intervene in the case so EPA can continue putting the RFS back on track.”

The Renewable Fuels Association recently filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit over the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the agency seeking a court review of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS for compliance years 2020 through 2022. The RFA is intervening on behalf of the agency to help stress the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard. The biofuel group’s goal is to “protect EPA’s substantial interest in the integrity of the RFS and investments RFA’s members have made in renewable fuels to support the program,” the motion states. “After years of mismanagement and setbacks by previous administrations, the Biden administration’s EPA is moving in the right direction on the RFS,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We’re looking to intervene in the case so EPA can continue putting the RFS back on track.”

Biofuel group intervening in legal attack on RFS

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation that would shield agricultural producers from a climate disclosure rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “U.S. farmers and ranchers absolutely need this exemption from the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. 

Our producer-members already face nearly insurmountable proposed and ongoing regulatory burdens from an array of federal agencies.” 

Miller also says producers’ main job should be putting American beef on American plates, not managing the complex clerical duties of SEC compliance rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The “Protect America’s Farmers from the SEC Act” prohibits the SEC from requiring an issuer of securities to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from upstream and downstream activities in the issuer’s value chain arising from a farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The SEC’s proposed rule says registrants would be required to disclose information about their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks.

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation that would shield agricultural producers from a climate disclosure rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “U.S. farmers and ranchers absolutely need this exemption from the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. Our producer-members already face nearly insurmountable proposed and ongoing regulatory burdens from an array of federal agencies.” Miller also says producers’ main job should be putting American beef on American plates, not managing the complex clerical duties of SEC compliance rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;The “Protect America’s Farmers from the SEC Act” prohibits the SEC from requiring an issuer of securities to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from upstream and downstream activities in the issuer’s value chain arising from a farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;The SEC’s proposed rule says registrants would be required to disclose information about their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks.

U.S. Cattlemen’s Association applauds SEC Protection Bill

The World Trade Organization is predicting a slowdown in global trade growth next year. 

Reuters says the pullback is because of sharply-higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates that will limit import demand. 

The WTO also says global trade could contract further if the war in Ukraine worsens. 

For 2023, the organization sees trade growth at just one percent compared to a previous forecast of 3.4 percent growth. The WTO director-general says there’s a lot of unpredictability in its forecast, noting that the picture for 2023 is “considerably darker” and the risks for next year’s forecast were more toward the downside. 

Weather events hitting food-producing regions or damaging energy export infrastructure could further slow trade growth in 2023. The WTO is also warning countries against being tempted to put trade restrictions in place. The group says trade restrictions would only deepen inflationary pressures and reduce living standards.

The World Trade Organization is predicting a slowdown in global trade growth next year. Reuters says the pullback is because of sharply-higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates that will limit import demand. The WTO also says global trade could contract further if the war in Ukraine worsens. For 2023, the organization sees trade growth at just one percent compared to a previous forecast of 3.4 percent growth. The WTO director-general says there’s a lot of unpredictability in its forecast, noting that the picture for 2023 is “considerably darker” and the risks for next year’s forecast were more toward the downside. Weather events hitting food-producing regions or damaging energy export infrastructure could further slow trade growth in 2023. The WTO is also warning countries against being tempted to put trade restrictions in place. The group says trade restrictions would only deepen inflationary pressures and reduce living standards.

WTO: Contraction in global trade growth during 2023

Senators John Thune and Ben Ray Luján recently introduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act. 

The bipartisan legislation by the South Dakota Republican and New Mexico Democrat would improve the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple Department of Agriculture programs that assist farmers and ranchers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. 

The legislation would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which triggers certain disaster programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thune says, “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to farmers and ranchers when they need it the most.” 

The legislation would update the Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program to clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs. 

The bill also allows the Farm Service Agency to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency, among other changes.

Senators John Thune and Ben Ray Luján recently introduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act. The bipartisan legislation by the South Dakota Republican and New Mexico Democrat would improve the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple Department of Agriculture programs that assist farmers and ranchers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. The legislation would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which triggers certain disaster programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thune says, “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to farmers and ranchers when they need it the most.” The legislation would update the Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program to clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs. The bill also allows the Farm Service Agency to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency, among other changes.

Thune introduces bill to improve Livestock Disaster Assistance

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed restrictions on atrazine. 

One of the most widely used herbicides in corn production, the proposed revisions by EPA would severely limit the use of atrazine. 

Secretary Naig tells the EPA that further restricting the use of atrazine will negatively impact pest resistance management and conservation efforts. 

In his comments, Naig says, "The EPA proposed picklist approach to managing atrazine is complicated, costly, and not feasible for Iowa farmers, landowners, and pesticide applicators." Further, he urges the EPA to listen to feedback from farmers and "adopt atrazine use requirements that are based on the best available science." 

In October 2020, EPA received a petition alleging that the Agency violated its duties under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by issuing the atrazine reregistration without substantial evidence supporting the decision. The comment period on the proposal ends Friday.

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed restrictions on atrazine. One of the most widely used herbicides in corn production, the proposed revisions by EPA would severely limit the use of atrazine. Secretary Naig tells the EPA that further restricting the use of atrazine will negatively impact pest resistance management and conservation efforts. In his comments, Naig says, "The EPA proposed picklist approach to managing atrazine is complicated, costly, and not feasible for Iowa farmers, landowners, and pesticide applicators." Further, he urges the EPA to listen to feedback from farmers and "adopt atrazine use requirements that are based on the best available science." In October 2020, EPA received a petition alleging that the Agency violated its duties under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by issuing the atrazine reregistration without substantial evidence supporting the decision. The comment period on the proposal ends Friday.

Iowa Ag Secretary: Atrazine restrictions will negatively impact conservation efforts

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee recently urged the Department of Agriculture to expand margin protection tools under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. 

Citing record high input costs and extreme volatility in commodity prices, Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman say the expansion would “allow producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these tools and better manage production cost risk by next fall.” 

Farmers are heading into the second consecutive planting season with elevated fertilizer and diesel prices while crop prices are getting more volatile. 

The letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urges margin protection, already in place for dairy, cattle and swine, and certain crops, should be thoughtfully expanded in a timely manner. 

As the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation considers expanding existing tools or developing new ones, the lawmakers say, "We urge the department to immediately prioritize additional and extensive risk management education for both producers and agents" on the policies currently available.

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee recently urged the Department of Agriculture to expand margin protection tools under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. Citing record high input costs and extreme volatility in commodity prices, Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman say the expansion would “allow producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these tools and better manage production cost risk by next fall.” Farmers are heading into the second consecutive planting season with elevated fertilizer and diesel prices while crop prices are getting more volatile. The letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urges margin protection, already in place for dairy, cattle and swine, and certain crops, should be thoughtfully expanded in a timely manner. As the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation considers expanding existing tools or developing new ones, the lawmakers say, "We urge the department to immediately prioritize additional and extensive risk management education for both producers and agents" on the policies currently available.

Senate Ag leadership urges USDA to expand margin protection tools

Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food to Fort Myers, Florida, to help with recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ian. 

The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based non-profit that deploys to disaster zones across America. 

They will help serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality, hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in Fort Myers. 

“Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager with Smithfield. “We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the long and difficult road to recovery.” 

Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, says, “Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in the wake of Hurricane Ian.”

Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food to Fort Myers, Florida, to help with recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ian. The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based non-profit that deploys to disaster zones across America. They will help serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality, hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in Fort Myers. “Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager with Smithfield. “We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the long and difficult road to recovery.” Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, says, “Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in the wake of Hurricane Ian.”

Smithfield Foods sending 150,000 servings of food for hurricane relief

A Mexican presidential decree to ban genetically modified corn in 2024 would have severe economic consequences for the U.S. and Mexican economies. 

A study from World Perspectives, Inc., says the move will result in a loss of billions for America’s farmers and higher prices for Mexican consumers. 

The net economic loss for the U.S. corn industry in the first year of the ban will be $3.56 billion. 

The U.S. ethanol industry, including DDGS, will incur a net loss of $521.5 million after accounting for gains from lower GM corn prices. Overall, the U.S. economy would lose $73.89 billion in economic output. 

During a ten-year forecast, the GM corn ban will increase the cost of corn by an average of 19 percent. &nbsp;That will inflate the cost of most foods and other goods for Mexicans. Poultry meat prices will jump by 67 percent because of a 13.7 percent increase in the cost of feed.

A Mexican presidential decree to ban genetically modified corn in 2024 would have severe economic consequences for the U.S. and Mexican economies. A study from World Perspectives, Inc., says the move will result in a loss of billions for America’s farmers and higher prices for Mexican consumers. The net economic loss for the U.S. corn industry in the first year of the ban will be $3.56 billion. The U.S. ethanol industry, including DDGS, will incur a net loss of $521.5 million after accounting for gains from lower GM corn prices. Overall, the U.S. economy would lose $73.89 billion in economic output. During a ten-year forecast, the GM corn ban will increase the cost of corn by an average of 19 percent. &nbsp;That will inflate the cost of most foods and other goods for Mexicans. Poultry meat prices will jump by 67 percent because of a 13.7 percent increase in the cost of feed.

Mexico’s proposed GMO corn ban will cost U.S. producers billions

Extremely dry conditions are putting a strain on the Fed’s Eleventh District. Ag bankers responding to a third-quarter survey report overall weaker economic conditions because of drought that’s pressuring agricultural production. 

The cotton crop and pastureland are especially hurting because of a lack of moisture. “The Southern Plains cotton crop is a disaster,” one survey participant says. 

“Almost all dryland crop has already been abandoned because of drought, and the irrigated crop still standing is pitiful.” 

Ag loan demand decreased during the third quarter of this year, the third-straight drop in the past three quarters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Loan renewals or extensions fell for the seventh-straight quarter, but the rate of loan repayments increased. 

Loan volume decreased for all categories compared with last year. Ranchland and dryland values rose during the quarter, while irrigated cropland values were steady. Cropland, dryland, and ranchland values increased the most in Texas, rising at least 10 percent year-over-year.

Extremely dry conditions are putting a strain on the Fed’s Eleventh District. Ag bankers responding to a third-quarter survey report overall weaker economic conditions because of drought that’s pressuring agricultural production. The cotton crop and pastureland are especially hurting because of a lack of moisture. “The Southern Plains cotton crop is a disaster,” one survey participant says. “Almost all dryland crop has already been abandoned because of drought, and the irrigated crop still standing is pitiful.” Ag loan demand decreased during the third quarter of this year, the third-straight drop in the past three quarters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Loan renewals or extensions fell for the seventh-straight quarter, but the rate of loan repayments increased. Loan volume decreased for all categories compared with last year. Ranchland and dryland values rose during the quarter, while irrigated cropland values were steady. Cropland, dryland, and ranchland values increased the most in Texas, rising at least 10 percent year-over-year.

Southern Plains economic conditions weakening

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri senators on Tuesday passed $40 million in annual tax breaks for farmers, ranchers and other agriculture-related businesses as part of a special legislative session.

Senators voted 26-3 in favor of the tax incentive package, which primarily renewed tax credits that had expired. The measure includes tax credits to benefit companies involved in meat processing, biodiesel, ethanol fuel and urban farms. It also expands government loan programs for farmers.

“The bill that we passed is a big win for rural Missouri," Republican Senate President Pro Tem Dave Schatz told reporters Tuesday.

Republican Sen. Mike Moon, a cattle rancher, during Tuesday debate raised concerns about foreign-owned Missouri farm companies benefitting from the tax breaks. Moon voted against the bill.

“We want to protect Missouri farmland for our families who come after us,” Moon said, adding that he wants “to make sure it stays in the hands of Missourians.”

Republican state Sen. Jason Bean, a farmer who ushered the agricultural tax credits through the Senate, said he expects lawmakers to debate foreign ownership of Missouri farms during the next legislative session, which begins in January.

The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar agricultural tax credits during the regular legislative session, which ended in May.

GOP Gov. Mike Parson vetoed the measure, citing a two-year sunset attached to many of the tax credits that he said was too short. He called lawmakers back for a special session to extend agricultural tax breaks for another six years, as well as spend some of the state’s revenue surplus on an income tax cut for individuals.

The House last week sent Parson a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">cut individual income taxes</a>&nbsp;from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year and phase in additional cuts until the rate hits 4.5%.

The Senate's passage of the agricultural tax incentive bill caps off the rest of lawmakers' unfinished business for the special legislative session.

Parson has not indicated when he will sign the bills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594500802802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri senators on Tuesday passed $40 million in annual tax breaks for farmers, ranchers and other agriculture-related businesses as part of a special legislative session.Senators voted 26-3 in favor of the tax incentive package, which primarily renewed tax credits that had expired. The measure includes tax credits to benefit companies involved in meat processing, biodiesel, ethanol fuel and urban farms. It also expands government loan programs for farmers.“The bill that we passed is a big win for rural Missouri," Republican Senate President Pro Tem Dave Schatz told reporters Tuesday.Republican Sen. Mike Moon, a cattle rancher, during Tuesday debate raised concerns about foreign-owned Missouri farm companies benefitting from the tax breaks. Moon voted against the bill.“We want to protect Missouri farmland for our families who come after us,” Moon said, adding that he wants “to make sure it stays in the hands of Missourians.”Republican state Sen. Jason Bean, a farmer who ushered the agricultural tax credits through the Senate, said he expects lawmakers to debate foreign ownership of Missouri farms during the next legislative session, which begins in January.The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar agricultural tax credits during the regular legislative session, which ended in May.GOP Gov. Mike Parson vetoed the measure, citing a two-year sunset attached to many of the tax credits that he said was too short. He called lawmakers back for a special session to extend agricultural tax breaks for another six years, as well as spend some of the state’s revenue surplus on an income tax cut for individuals.The House last week sent Parson a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">cut individual income taxes</a>&nbsp;from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year and phase in additional cuts until the rate hits 4.5%.The Senate's passage of the agricultural tax incentive bill caps off the rest of lawmakers' unfinished business for the special legislative session.Parson has not indicated when he will sign the bills.

Missouri lawmakers approve $40M in tax breaks for farmers

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association called on the Environmental Protection Agency to pause their Waters of the United States rulemaking. 

The action follows Monday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in the case Sackett v. EPA, a case that will determine the EPA’s authority to regulate bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. 

NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover says, "we call on the EPA to suspend their rulemaking until the outcome of the case is clear." 

In April, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, calling for a new test for determining whether a water feature fell under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. 

NCBA's argument would allow the government to protect substantial bodies of water while preventing overreach on small isolated agricultural water features. 

NCBA also commented on the Biden administration's proposed "Waters of the U.S." rule. NCBA calls for this rulemaking to halt until the Supreme Court issues a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association called on the Environmental Protection Agency to pause their Waters of the United States rulemaking. The action follows Monday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in the case Sackett v. EPA, a case that will determine the EPA’s authority to regulate bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover says, "we call on the EPA to suspend their rulemaking until the outcome of the case is clear." In April, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, calling for a new test for determining whether a water feature fell under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. NCBA's argument would allow the government to protect substantial bodies of water while preventing overreach on small isolated agricultural water features. NCBA also commented on the Biden administration's proposed "Waters of the U.S." rule. NCBA calls for this rulemaking to halt until the Supreme Court issues a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case.