JEFFERSON CITY&nbsp;— On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson signed&nbsp;Executive Order 23-05 declaring a Drought&nbsp;Alert in the State of Missouri in accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, according to a media release from his office.

"With the summer months fast approaching, we want to be proactive to help mitigate the impacts of drought&nbsp;conditions we are experiencing,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "Missouri farmers and ranchers often bear the brunt of the consequences of drought, and we are already starting to see early effects on crops and livestock. While we cannot control the weather, we are committed to&nbsp;doing&nbsp;everything we can to alleviate the strain drought causes for our agricultural&nbsp;families and protect our food supply chains."

A Drought Alert, part of&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/missouri-drought-mitigation-response-plan-2023">Missouri’s Drought Plan</a>, is the first step for the Governor to direct state agencies to work together to provide as many resources and as much assistance as possible.&nbsp;

The Executive Order directs the Director of the Missouri Department&nbsp;of Natural Resources (DNR), Dru Buntin, to activate Missouri's Drought Assessment Committee and requests&nbsp;that all Missouri and federal agencies&nbsp;participate&nbsp;as needed. The Committee's first meeting will be held next Wednesday, June 7 at 2 p.m. DNR will coordinate additional&nbsp;meeting details.

Missouri agencies participating on the Drought Assessment Committee include the Department of Conservation, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Economic Development, Department of Health and Senior&nbsp;Services, and Department of Public Safety.

The Committee will further&nbsp;assess drought&nbsp;conditions and make preliminary recommendations&nbsp;to Governor Parson by Friday, June 9. Recommendations could include actions similar to those taken in the past, including a&nbsp;hay lottery program, opening public waters for livestock, easing hay hauling restrictions, etc.

Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of 60 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive&nbsp;Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any other county that begins experiencing&nbsp;drought conditions.&nbsp;

In a fast-moving drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR)</a>.

A variety of helpful resources are online at&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/water/hows-water/state-water/drought">www.dnr.mo.gov/drought</a>. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities daily as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">CMOR</a>, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire&nbsp;prevention&nbsp;website:&nbsp;<a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention">www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685580214260.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY&nbsp;— On Wednesday, Governor Mike Parson signed&nbsp;Executive Order 23-05 declaring a Drought&nbsp;Alert in the State of Missouri in accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, according to a media release from his office."With the summer months fast approaching, we want to be proactive to help mitigate the impacts of drought&nbsp;conditions we are experiencing,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "Missouri farmers and ranchers often bear the brunt of the consequences of drought, and we are already starting to see early effects on crops and livestock. While we cannot control the weather, we are committed to&nbsp;doing&nbsp;everything we can to alleviate the strain drought causes for our agricultural&nbsp;families and protect our food supply chains."A Drought Alert, part of&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/missouri-drought-mitigation-response-plan-2023">Missouri’s Drought Plan</a>, is the first step for the Governor to direct state agencies to work together to provide as many resources and as much assistance as possible.&nbsp;The Executive Order directs the Director of the Missouri Department&nbsp;of Natural Resources (DNR), Dru Buntin, to activate Missouri's Drought Assessment Committee and requests&nbsp;that all Missouri and federal agencies&nbsp;participate&nbsp;as needed. The Committee's first meeting will be held next Wednesday, June 7 at 2 p.m. DNR will coordinate additional&nbsp;meeting details.Missouri agencies participating on the Drought Assessment Committee include the Department of Conservation, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Economic Development, Department of Health and Senior&nbsp;Services, and Department of Public Safety.The Committee will further&nbsp;assess drought&nbsp;conditions and make preliminary recommendations&nbsp;to Governor Parson by Friday, June 9. Recommendations could include actions similar to those taken in the past, including a&nbsp;hay lottery program, opening public waters for livestock, easing hay hauling restrictions, etc.Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of 60 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive&nbsp;Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any other county that begins experiencing&nbsp;drought conditions.&nbsp;In a fast-moving drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR)</a>.A variety of helpful resources are online at&nbsp;<a href="https://dnr.mo.gov/water/hows-water/state-water/drought">www.dnr.mo.gov/drought</a>. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities daily as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!QggtdEXVN-PQpqT1sFMWjn-honwIIsokHVUnzcFv10kf-aRU8iqm4TTKdmQtE6Eutj-lRpCxJOf4Jn8%24" target="_blank">CMOR</a>, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire&nbsp;prevention&nbsp;website:&nbsp;<a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention">www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention</a>.

Gov. signs executive order declaring drought alert in Missouri 

USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought.

 “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. 

Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.

USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought. “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.- NAFB

Drought area spreading in parts of rural America

Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. 

If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. 

Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012.

Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012.- NAFB

Talks continue on merging U.S. and Canadian ag giants

USDA is extending deadlines for the Emergency Relief Program Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program to July 14. The goal is to give producers more time to apply for the assistance. 

Also, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is partnering with nine organizations to provide educational and technical assistance to agricultural producers and provide assistance in completing an ERP Phase Two application. “Farm Service Agency recognizes that there is a learning curve for producers applying for the new revenue-based programs, and we want to make sure producers have the time they need to apply for assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. 

“Partnering with these organizations through cooperative agreements provides additional assistance to producers who need help with ERP Phase Two.” The groups include Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc., the North South Institute, Rural Coalition, and others. For more information on the nine organizations and their contact information, go to fsa.usda.gov.

USDA is extending deadlines for the Emergency Relief Program Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program to July 14. The goal is to give producers more time to apply for the assistance. Also, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is partnering with nine organizations to provide educational and technical assistance to agricultural producers and provide assistance in completing an ERP Phase Two application. “Farm Service Agency recognizes that there is a learning curve for producers applying for the new revenue-based programs, and we want to make sure producers have the time they need to apply for assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Partnering with these organizations through cooperative agreements provides additional assistance to producers who need help with ERP Phase Two.” The groups include Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc., the North South Institute, Rural Coalition, and others. For more information on the nine organizations and their contact information, go to fsa.usda.gov.- NAFB

USDA extends deadline for revenue loss programs

The USDA says soybean export sales rose during the week ending on May 19, while cancelations of corn and wheat orders from overseas customers resulted in net reductions. 

Soybean sales rose to 115,000 metric tons during the week, up from the prior week but down 26 percent from the previous five-year average. Germany was the top customer at almost 58,000 metric tons, while Japan bought 53,500 tons. Cancelations of corn orders resulted in a net drop of 75,200 metric tons during the week. However, that’s still better than the net reduction of 339,000 during the prior week. Mexico was the top corn buyer at 216,000 metric tons. But China canceled shipments of almost 332,000 metric tons. 

Wheat cancelations resulted in net reductions of 45,100 metric tons, the lowest level since the marketing year began. China bought 68,000 tons of wheat while Nigeria took in almost 16,000. Japan canceled shipments totaling 63,000 metric tons.

The USDA says soybean export sales rose during the week ending on May 19, while cancelations of corn and wheat orders from overseas customers resulted in net reductions. Soybean sales rose to 115,000 metric tons during the week, up from the prior week but down 26 percent from the previous five-year average. Germany was the top customer at almost 58,000 metric tons, while Japan bought 53,500 tons. Cancelations of corn orders resulted in a net drop of 75,200 metric tons during the week. However, that’s still better than the net reduction of 339,000 during the prior week. Mexico was the top corn buyer at 216,000 metric tons. But China canceled shipments of almost 332,000 metric tons. Wheat cancelations resulted in net reductions of 45,100 metric tons, the lowest level since the marketing year began. China bought 68,000 tons of wheat while Nigeria took in almost 16,000. Japan canceled shipments totaling 63,000 metric tons.-NAFB

Weekly Soybean Sales Rise, Corn and Wheat Drop

Food Navigator says the bills should help to further repair and reinforce America’s fragile food supply chains threatened by a severe shortage of drivers. Almost three-fourths of all goods in America’s economy, including all foods sold in grocery stores, get moved by the trucking industry. 

The bipartisan legislation would reduce the “empty miles” that trucks have to travel by allowing them to increase the weight they carry with an additional axle. A bill from Dusty Johnson (R-SD) would establish a voluntary ten-year pilot program allowing states to increase the weight of six-axle vehicles on federal interstates up to 91,000 pounds. 

Supporters say increasing the amount of weight trucks can carry would lower greenhouse gas emissions, ease supply chain backlogs, and reduce the number of “empty miles.” &nbsp;

the right direction. Food Navigator says the bills should help to further repair and reinforce America’s fragile food supply chains threatened by a severe shortage of drivers. Almost three-fourths of all goods in America’s economy, including all foods sold in grocery stores, get moved by the trucking industry. The bipartisan legislation would reduce the “empty miles” that trucks have to travel by allowing them to increase the weight they carry with an additional axle. A bill from Dusty Johnson (R-SD) would establish a voluntary ten-year pilot program allowing states to increase the weight of six-axle vehicles on federal interstates up to 91,000 pounds. Supporters say increasing the amount of weight trucks can carry would lower greenhouse gas emissions, ease supply chain backlogs, and reduce the number of “empty miles.” &nbsp;-NAFB

Legislation on easing supply chain challenges advances in the House

U.S. agriculture groups continue reacting positively to the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling in the Sackett vs. EPA case that rejected the Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition. 

“Cattle producers can breathe a sigh of relief,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson. “This decision refocuses the Clean Water Act on protecting our water through regulatory clarity.” The Fertilizer Institute also welcomed the decision. “The decision to strike down the ‘significant nexus’ test is a win for agriculture,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “This is a great first step to needed clarity for the fertilizer industry’s long-term planning and capital investments that will allow us to keep providing critical crop nutrients.” 

The National Pork Producers Council called the decision a “tremendous victory” for pork producers. “This ruling is a clear punctuation point after decades of attempts to expand the federal government’s control of private land,” says NPPC Vice President Duane Stateler. &nbsp;

U.S. agriculture groups continue reacting positively to the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling in the Sackett vs. EPA case that rejected the Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition. “Cattle producers can breathe a sigh of relief,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson. “This decision refocuses the Clean Water Act on protecting our water through regulatory clarity.” The Fertilizer Institute also welcomed the decision. “The decision to strike down the ‘significant nexus’ test is a win for agriculture,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “This is a great first step to needed clarity for the fertilizer industry’s long-term planning and capital investments that will allow us to keep providing critical crop nutrients.” The National Pork Producers Council called the decision a “tremendous victory” for pork producers. “This ruling is a clear punctuation point after decades of attempts to expand the federal government’s control of private land,” says NPPC Vice President Duane Stateler. &nbsp;-NAFB

More reaction to Supreme Court’s WOTUS decision

The Supreme Court Thursday ruled against the Environmental Protection Agency in the case Sackett vs. EPA regarding the Biden administration's Waters of the U.S. rule. 

The court stated that wetlands under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act must have a continuous surface connection to bodies of water, making it difficult to determine where the water ends, and the wetland begins. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, "The justices respect private property rights. It's now time for the Biden administration to do the same and rewrite the Waters of the United States Rule." 

Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican and Congressional Western Caucus Chairman, says, “This landmark decision from the Supreme Court is a clear demonstration of our nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of individual property rights.” 

Agricultural Retailers Association President and CEO Daren Coppock added, “The decision finally restores common sense back into WOTUS regulation.”

The Supreme Court Thursday ruled against the Environmental Protection Agency in the case Sackett vs. EPA regarding the Biden administration's Waters of the U.S. rule. The court stated that wetlands under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act must have a continuous surface connection to bodies of water, making it difficult to determine where the water ends, and the wetland begins. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, "The justices respect private property rights. It's now time for the Biden administration to do the same and rewrite the Waters of the United States Rule." Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican and Congressional Western Caucus Chairman, says, “This landmark decision from the Supreme Court is a clear demonstration of our nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of individual property rights.” Agricultural Retailers Association President and CEO Daren Coppock added, “The decision finally restores common sense back into WOTUS regulation.”- NAFB

AFBF: Supreme Court reaffirms Clean Water Rule

Japan’s pork imports are estimated to increase to more than $6 billion over the next five years, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. 

Growth is supported by trade agreements Japan ratified between 2018 and 2021 with its major pork suppliers, including the United States, the European Union, and the ten countries party to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. 

These agreements mandate reductions in Japan’s trade barriers on pork imports.&nbsp;&nbsp;A recent report from USDA estimates these trade agreements will boost 2028 exports to Japan from the United States, EU, and CPTPP countries to totals of $2.08 billion, $2.04 billion, and $2.03 billion, respectively. 

For the United States, this is a large gain compared with a scenario in which the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement did not exist. Under that scenario, U.S. pork exports to Japan would have totaled $1.41 billion, and EU and CPTPP countries would have gained market share at the expense of the United States.

Japan’s pork imports are estimated to increase to more than $6 billion over the next five years, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Growth is supported by trade agreements Japan ratified between 2018 and 2021 with its major pork suppliers, including the United States, the European Union, and the ten countries party to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. These agreements mandate reductions in Japan’s trade barriers on pork imports.&nbsp;&nbsp;A recent report from USDA estimates these trade agreements will boost 2028 exports to Japan from the United States, EU, and CPTPP countries to totals of $2.08 billion, $2.04 billion, and $2.03 billion, respectively. For the United States, this is a large gain compared with a scenario in which the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement did not exist. Under that scenario, U.S. pork exports to Japan would have totaled $1.41 billion, and EU and CPTPP countries would have gained market share at the expense of the United States.- NAFB

Japan Trade Agreement projected to grow U.S. pork exports

The Southern Plains saw drought relief over the last week, according to the latest Drought Monitor released Thursday. 

Still, much of the rain arrived too late to rescue winter wheat, though rangeland, pastures, and summer crops greatly benefited from the soil moisture improvements. 

In Texas, rangeland and pastures rated in very poor to poor condition by the Department of Agriculture improved from 51 to 36 percent during the week ending May 21. 

On the same date, topsoil moisture was rated less than one-third very short to short in Texas and Oklahoma. Still, despite abundant showers and thunderstorms, pockets of extreme to exceptional drought persisted in western and central Texas and across the northwestern half of Oklahoma. 

Farther east, most areas remained free of dryness and drought, aside from a few areas in the central Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, variable rainfall extended westward into the central and southern Rockies and eastward to the southern Atlantic Coast.

The Southern Plains saw drought relief over the last week, according to the latest Drought Monitor released Thursday. Still, much of the rain arrived too late to rescue winter wheat, though rangeland, pastures, and summer crops greatly benefited from the soil moisture improvements. In Texas, rangeland and pastures rated in very poor to poor condition by the Department of Agriculture improved from 51 to 36 percent during the week ending May 21. On the same date, topsoil moisture was rated less than one-third very short to short in Texas and Oklahoma. Still, despite abundant showers and thunderstorms, pockets of extreme to exceptional drought persisted in western and central Texas and across the northwestern half of Oklahoma. Farther east, most areas remained free of dryness and drought, aside from a few areas in the central Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, variable rainfall extended westward into the central and southern Rockies and eastward to the southern Atlantic Coast.- NAFB

Drought Monitor: Southern Plains see drought relief

China had a lot to say about the recent trade agreement between the U.S. and Taiwan. 

Saltwire.com says China’s Ministry of Commerce urged the U.S. to “carefully handle economic and trade relations with Taiwan.” 

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office recently announced that the U.S. and Taiwan reached an agreement on the first part of their 21st Century trade initiative. 

The agreement covers customs and trade facilitation, regulatory practices, and small businesses. The pact is not expected to alter goods tariffs, but supporters say it will tighten economic bonds between the two nations and open up the Chinese-claimed island to more U.S. exports. 

It will also improve the ability of the island nation to resist Chinese economic coercion. China reacted angrily to the Taiwan president’s recent meetings with high-level U.S. officials, including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. The announcement came just ahead of trade meetings between the U.S. and China.

China had a lot to say about the recent trade agreement between the U.S. and Taiwan. Saltwire.com says China’s Ministry of Commerce urged the U.S. to “carefully handle economic and trade relations with Taiwan.” The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office recently announced that the U.S. and Taiwan reached an agreement on the first part of their 21st Century trade initiative. The agreement covers customs and trade facilitation, regulatory practices, and small businesses. The pact is not expected to alter goods tariffs, but supporters say it will tighten economic bonds between the two nations and open up the Chinese-claimed island to more U.S. exports. It will also improve the ability of the island nation to resist Chinese economic coercion. China reacted angrily to the Taiwan president’s recent meetings with high-level U.S. officials, including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. The announcement came just ahead of trade meetings between the U.S. and China.- NAFB

China opposes U.S. trade agreement with Taiwan

The Environmental Protection Agency will recommend delaying a program that would allow electric vehicle manufacturers to access tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

Two sources told Reuters that the White House will review the EPA’s final rule. 

The plan would have given EV automakers credits for charging vehicles using power generated from natural gas or methane. 

The threat of potential lawsuits also could have played a part in the postponement. The initial proposal last November could have generated as much as 600 million tradeable credits in 2024 and 1.2 billion in 2025. Prices for equivalent biofuel credits have recently traded over $2 each. 

The two sources also say the Biden Administration is still hoping to pass a final rule on the EV program before the end of 2023, even if it gets uncoupled from the yearly blending mandates. Biden is boosting the EV industry in an effort to reduce carbon emissions.

The Environmental Protection Agency will recommend delaying a program that would allow electric vehicle manufacturers to access tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Two sources told Reuters that the White House will review the EPA’s final rule. The plan would have given EV automakers credits for charging vehicles using power generated from natural gas or methane. The threat of potential lawsuits also could have played a part in the postponement. The initial proposal last November could have generated as much as 600 million tradeable credits in 2024 and 1.2 billion in 2025. Prices for equivalent biofuel credits have recently traded over $2 each. The two sources also say the Biden Administration is still hoping to pass a final rule on the EV program before the end of 2023, even if it gets uncoupled from the yearly blending mandates. Biden is boosting the EV industry in an effort to reduce carbon emissions.- NAFB

EPA to recommend delaying electric vehicles biofuel program

USDA and the Department of Homeland Security celebrated the dedication and ribbon-cutting of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. 

This facility is the first of its kind in the U.S. 

It offers the highest level of bio-containment laboratories and safety protocols and will allow scientists to study and diagnose critical animal diseases. 

“America’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers count on our researchers to understand, monitor for, and develop solutions to combat a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. A facility of this magnitude positions us to respond.” 

The valuable scientific information delivered by researchers at NBAF will also allow America to remain a leading contributor of countermeasures that will protect agriculture, economies, and citizens across the globe. 

A USDA news release also says it’s a historic investment for agriculture and our nation in ensuring the health, safety, and security of the U.S. food supply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685026002857.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility Twitter Page" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility Twitter Page</figcaption>
 </figure>USDA and the Department of Homeland Security celebrated the dedication and ribbon-cutting of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. This facility is the first of its kind in the U.S. It offers the highest level of bio-containment laboratories and safety protocols and will allow scientists to study and diagnose critical animal diseases. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers count on our researchers to understand, monitor for, and develop solutions to combat a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. A facility of this magnitude positions us to respond.” The valuable scientific information delivered by researchers at NBAF will also allow America to remain a leading contributor of countermeasures that will protect agriculture, economies, and citizens across the globe. A USDA news release also says it’s a historic investment for agriculture and our nation in ensuring the health, safety, and security of the U.S. food supply.- NAFB

Ribbon cutting on National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility

Ford CEO Jim Farley announced on Twitter Tuesday that the company would include AM radio as part of all newly manufactured vehicles in 2024. 

Farley says, “After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles.” 

Any owners of a Ford electric vehicle without AM broadcast capability will be offered the capability through a software update, according to the company. 

The reversal follows action by lawmakers who introduced the AM for Every Vehicle Act last week, and opposition by broadcast associations. 

The National Association of Broadcasters, in a statement responded, "In light of Ford's announcement, NAB urges other automakers who have removed AM radio from their vehicles to follow Ford's lead." 

The AM for Every Vehicle Act cited the importance of keeping communities informed during emergencies, particularly rural communities with a lack of other information resources.

Ford CEO Jim Farley announced on Twitter Tuesday that the company would include AM radio as part of all newly manufactured vehicles in 2024. Farley says, “After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles.” Any owners of a Ford electric vehicle without AM broadcast capability will be offered the capability through a software update, according to the company. The reversal follows action by lawmakers who introduced the AM for Every Vehicle Act last week, and opposition by broadcast associations. The National Association of Broadcasters, in a statement responded, "In light of Ford's announcement, NAB urges other automakers who have removed AM radio from their vehicles to follow Ford's lead." The AM for Every Vehicle Act cited the importance of keeping communities informed during emergencies, particularly rural communities with a lack of other information resources.- NAFB

Ford to keep AM radio in new vehicles

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will end data collection for the 2022 Census of Agriculture on May 31. 

Producers who have not yet returned their completed questionnaires have just one week left to respond. 

Federal law requires everyone who received the ag census to complete and return it. 

Recipients can respond online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Not being represented in these widely used data means risking being underserved.” 

USDA NASS is reminding ag census recipients that if they produced and sold $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022, or normally would have produced and sold that much, they meet USDA’s definition of a farm. 

However, landowners who lease land to producers, those solely involved in conservation programs, and even those who may not have farmed in 2022 are still required to respond. USDA will release the results in 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will end data collection for the 2022 Census of Agriculture on May 31. Producers who have not yet returned their completed questionnaires have just one week left to respond. Federal law requires everyone who received the ag census to complete and return it. Recipients can respond online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Not being represented in these widely used data means risking being underserved.” USDA NASS is reminding ag census recipients that if they produced and sold $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022, or normally would have produced and sold that much, they meet USDA’s definition of a farm. However, landowners who lease land to producers, those solely involved in conservation programs, and even those who may not have farmed in 2022 are still required to respond. USDA will release the results in 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.- NAFB

Last chance to complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture

USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture helped 89 food animal veterinary practitioners with loan repayments from the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program in 2022. 

NIFA reported this week that the 89 students from 28 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges received nearly $9 million in loan repayment benefits. 

The program up to $75,000 in loan repayment over a three-year period to help eligible veterinarians offset a significant portion of the debt incurred in pursuit of their veterinary medical degrees in return for their service in certain high-priority veterinary shortage situations. 

Funding is authorized by the National Veterinary Medical Services Act. NIFA National Program Leader Bob Smith says, "Award recipients regularly tell us that they wouldn't be able to serve these areas without this support."&nbsp; 

The program helps address the critical shortage of food animal veterinarians in both private and public practice, particularly in rural communities in the United States.

USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture helped 89 food animal veterinary practitioners with loan repayments from the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program in 2022. NIFA reported this week that the 89 students from 28 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges received nearly $9 million in loan repayment benefits. The program up to $75,000 in loan repayment over a three-year period to help eligible veterinarians offset a significant portion of the debt incurred in pursuit of their veterinary medical degrees in return for their service in certain high-priority veterinary shortage situations. Funding is authorized by the National Veterinary Medical Services Act. NIFA National Program Leader Bob Smith says, "Award recipients regularly tell us that they wouldn't be able to serve these areas without this support."&nbsp; The program helps address the critical shortage of food animal veterinarians in both private and public practice, particularly in rural communities in the United States.- NAFB

NIFA helps veterinary medical students repay loans

U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates wheat production will fall 20% compared with last year

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Month after month without enough rain has made Kansas the epicenter of a stubborn drought covering parts of the Great Plains.&nbsp;

While the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">drought that plagued almost the entire western half of the U.S. last year</a>&nbsp;has relented, it has only gotten worse in Kansas. The state is experiencing the most severe drought in the country and its worst in a decade.&nbsp;

If rains don’t come soon, more than one-quarter of the state’s wheat fields could be in such dismal conditions farmers don’t even harvest them, according to Kansas Wheat.

“I never like to say too little too late,” said Steve McCloud, who lives in Harvey County and serves on the Kansas Farm Bureau board, “but we’re about there.”

Almost 60% of Kansas is experiencing “extreme” or “exceptional” drought conditions, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">U.S. Drought Monitor</a>. Only 13% of the state, concentrated in the northeast, is completely without drought.&nbsp;

There’s reason to be hopeful. Matthew Sittel, an assistant climatologist for Kansas, noted parts of the state are expected to get a couple of inches of rain in the next few days. But it will take awhile to recover from months on end of startlingly dry conditions.&nbsp;

“We can safely say it’s the worst drought situation in a decade,” Sittel said.

Drought started creeping into Kansas in the fall of 2021. First, a few isolated counties had mild drought. It started to build in the southwest, and by spring, 10% of the state was in extreme or exceptional drought.

The drought hit its peak earlier this month, with more than two-thirds of the state in the most severe levels of drought. It has since relented slightly.

Marsha Boswell, a spokeswoman for Kansas Wheat, was well aware of the damage from this drought before&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kswheat.com/news/abandoned-fields-and-low-yields-underscore-wheat-tour-2023">touring wheat fields across the state last week</a>. She was in southwest Kansas a few weeks ago and said some wheat never emerged from the ground.&nbsp;

But as she drove around the state with the Wheat Quality Council to look at how winter wheat was faring, she was struck by how far into eastern Kansas, which typically gets more rain, the drought reached and the number of fields being abandoned.&nbsp;

Tour participants took measurements to estimate this year’s wheat production. They projected Kansas farmers would wind up with 178 million bushels of wheat.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/crop0523.pdf">U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated</a>&nbsp;Kansas would produce closer to 191 million bushels, still a far cry from last year’s harvest of 244 million bushels.&nbsp;

While the number of winter wheat bushels harvested nationally this year is expected to grow 2% compared with last year, Kansas’ production could drop by close to 20%, according to the USDA.

Kansas wheat tour participants anticipated close to one-quarter of wheat crops could be abandoned, Boswell said.&nbsp;

“You also have to remember there’s still three to six weeks before harvest gets going … so this is pretty much the best-case scenario,” Boswell said.&nbsp;

In addition to wheat, the drought has taken its toll on grazing lands, food supplies and drinking water for livestock.&nbsp;

McCloud said he’ll consider himself fortunate if harvests one-third of the brome grass he normally feeds his cattle.&nbsp;

McCloud said he thinks he’ll be able to get enough feed to get by without selling off cattle.&nbsp;

“But if we are continuing in these severe drought conditions by early to mid fall, I’m gonna have to scratch my head a little bit,” he said.&nbsp;

Shawn Tiffany, president of the Kansas Livestock Association, farms and raises cattle in Morris, McPherson and Lyon counties.&nbsp;

He said unless rains come soon, some of his stock ponds may run out of water. His wheat crop is poor enough that it will be more valuable as roughage for his cattle than waiting for the grain harvest.&nbsp;

The drought means cattle ranchers are more reliant on hay because they don’t have enough grazing crops for their cows. But at the same time, he said, the hay supply is constrained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I’ve paid the highest prices for hay in my career for the last nine months,” he said.&nbsp;

Tiffany operates a finishing feedyard, meaning other ranchers bring their cattle to him for the final few months before the animals are killed and taken to meatpackers.&nbsp;

He said he hasn’t been forced to reduce his supply, but some ranchers he works with have, so there is less business coming his way.&nbsp;

Tiffany said it will take ranchers awhile to build back their herds, even after the drought breaks. But agriculture is always a risky business.

“There’s an old joke in Kansas — you’re never more than 30 days away from a flood or a drought,” Tiffany said. “It’s just that that flood continues to be 30 days out on the horizon.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684861752582.png" alt="A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. (Kansas Wheat/submitted)" />
 <figcaption>A severe drought plaguing Kansas spells trouble for the winter wheat harvest. (Kansas Wheat/submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates wheat production will fall 20% compared with last year</h2>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>Month after month without enough rain has made Kansas the epicenter of a stubborn drought covering parts of the Great Plains.&nbsp;While the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">drought that plagued almost the entire western half of the U.S. last year</a>&nbsp;has relented, it has only gotten worse in Kansas. The state is experiencing the most severe drought in the country and its worst in a decade.&nbsp;If rains don’t come soon, more than one-quarter of the state’s wheat fields could be in such dismal conditions farmers don’t even harvest them, according to Kansas Wheat.“I never like to say too little too late,” said Steve McCloud, who lives in Harvey County and serves on the Kansas Farm Bureau board, “but we’re about there.”Almost 60% of Kansas is experiencing “extreme” or “exceptional” drought conditions, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">U.S. Drought Monitor</a>. Only 13% of the state, concentrated in the northeast, is completely without drought.&nbsp;There’s reason to be hopeful. Matthew Sittel, an assistant climatologist for Kansas, noted parts of the state are expected to get a couple of inches of rain in the next few days. But it will take awhile to recover from months on end of startlingly dry conditions.&nbsp;“We can safely say it’s the worst drought situation in a decade,” Sittel said.Drought started creeping into Kansas in the fall of 2021. First, a few isolated counties had mild drought. It started to build in the southwest, and by spring, 10% of the state was in extreme or exceptional drought.The drought hit its peak earlier this month, with more than two-thirds of the state in the most severe levels of drought. It has since relented slightly.<h2>Crop failures&nbsp;</h2>Marsha Boswell, a spokeswoman for Kansas Wheat, was well aware of the damage from this drought before&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kswheat.com/news/abandoned-fields-and-low-yields-underscore-wheat-tour-2023">touring wheat fields across the state last week</a>. She was in southwest Kansas a few weeks ago and said some wheat never emerged from the ground.&nbsp;But as she drove around the state with the Wheat Quality Council to look at how winter wheat was faring, she was struck by how far into eastern Kansas, which typically gets more rain, the drought reached and the number of fields being abandoned.&nbsp;Tour participants took measurements to estimate this year’s wheat production. They projected Kansas farmers would wind up with 178 million bushels of wheat.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/crop0523.pdf">U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated</a>&nbsp;Kansas would produce closer to 191 million bushels, still a far cry from last year’s harvest of 244 million bushels.&nbsp;While the number of winter wheat bushels harvested nationally this year is expected to grow 2% compared with last year, Kansas’ production could drop by close to 20%, according to the USDA.Kansas wheat tour participants anticipated close to one-quarter of wheat crops could be abandoned, Boswell said.&nbsp;“You also have to remember there’s still three to six weeks before harvest gets going … so this is pretty much the best-case scenario,” Boswell said.&nbsp;<h2>Raising cattle in a drought&nbsp;</h2>In addition to wheat, the drought has taken its toll on grazing lands, food supplies and drinking water for livestock.&nbsp;McCloud said he’ll consider himself fortunate if harvests one-third of the brome grass he normally feeds his cattle.&nbsp;McCloud said he thinks he’ll be able to get enough feed to get by without selling off cattle.&nbsp;“But if we are continuing in these severe drought conditions by early to mid fall, I’m gonna have to scratch my head a little bit,” he said.&nbsp;Shawn Tiffany, president of the Kansas Livestock Association, farms and raises cattle in Morris, McPherson and Lyon counties.&nbsp;He said unless rains come soon, some of his stock ponds may run out of water. His wheat crop is poor enough that it will be more valuable as roughage for his cattle than waiting for the grain harvest.&nbsp;The drought means cattle ranchers are more reliant on hay because they don’t have enough grazing crops for their cows. But at the same time, he said, the hay supply is constrained.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ve paid the highest prices for hay in my career for the last nine months,” he said.&nbsp;Tiffany operates a finishing feedyard, meaning other ranchers bring their cattle to him for the final few months before the animals are killed and taken to meatpackers.&nbsp;He said he hasn’t been forced to reduce his supply, but some ranchers he works with have, so there is less business coming his way.&nbsp;Tiffany said it will take ranchers awhile to build back their herds, even after the drought breaks. But agriculture is always a risky business.“There’s an old joke in Kansas — you’re never more than 30 days away from a flood or a drought,” Tiffany said. “It’s just that that flood continues to be 30 days out on the horizon.”

With only weeks until wheat harvest, drought still plagues Kansas

DETROIT (AP) — Owners of new Ford vehicles will be able to tune in to AM radio in their cars, trucks and SUVs after all.

CEO Jim Farley wrote in social media postings Tuesday that the company is reversing a decision to scrub the band after speaking with government policy leaders who are concerned about keeping emergency alerts that often are sounded on AM stations.

“We've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles," Farley wrote on Twitter. "For any owners of Ford's EVs without AM broadcast capability, we'll offer a software update” to restore it, Farley wrote.

The move comes after a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost.

Sponsors of the “AM for Every Vehicle Act” cited public safety concerns, noting AM's historic role in transmitting vital information during emergencies, such as natural disasters, especially to rural areas.

Sen. Edward Markey, D-Mass., one of the bill’s sponsors, said eight of 20 major automakers including Ford, BMW and Tesla have pulled the band from new vehicles.

Ford removed AM from the 2023 Mustang Mach-e and F-150 Lightning electric pickups after data collected from vehicles showed that less than 5% of customers listened to it, spokesman Alan Hall said. Electrical interference and reducing cost and manufacturing complexity also played a role.

The company also took it out of the 2024 gasoline-powered Mustang, but will add it back in before any of the muscle cars are delivered, Hall said.

The EVs will get an online software update to put AM back into the vehicles, and Ford will keep including it in future vehicles as it looks at innovative ways to deliver emergency alerts, Hall said.

Ford and others also suggested that internet radio or other communication tools could replace AM radio. But Markey and others pointed to situations where drivers might not have internet access.

The Federal Communications Commission and National Association of Broadcasters praised the legislation, which is also backed by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., Rep. Tom Kean, Jr., R-N.J., Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., among others.

But the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a U.S. trade group that represents major automakers including Ford and BMW, criticized the bill, calling the AM radio mandate unnecessary.

The trade group pointed to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System, which can distribute safety warnings across AM, FM, internet-based and satellite radios — as well as over cellular networks.

The alliance said the bill gives preference to a technology that's competing with other communications options.

Messages were left Tuesday seeking comment from BMW and Tesla.

According to the National Association of Broadcasters and Nielsen data, more than 80 million people in the U.S. listen to AM radio every month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684855234628.png" alt="The move comes after a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost.-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>The move comes after a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost.-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Owners of new Ford vehicles will be able to tune in to AM radio in their cars, trucks and SUVs after all.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we&#39;ve decided to include it on all 2024 <a href="https://twitter.com/Ford?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ford</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/LincolnMotorCo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LincolnMotorCo</a> vehicles. For any owners of Ford EVs without AM broadcast capability, we’ll offer a software…&mdash; Jim Farley (@jimfarley98) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimfarley98/status/1661024295110463491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>CEO Jim Farley wrote in social media postings Tuesday that the company is reversing a decision to scrub the band after speaking with government policy leaders who are concerned about keeping emergency alerts that often are sounded on AM stations.“We've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles," Farley wrote on Twitter. "For any owners of Ford's EVs without AM broadcast capability, we'll offer a software update” to restore it, Farley wrote.The move comes after a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers introduced a bill Wednesday calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost.Sponsors of the “AM for Every Vehicle Act” cited public safety concerns, noting AM's historic role in transmitting vital information during emergencies, such as natural disasters, especially to rural areas.Sen. Edward Markey, D-Mass., one of the bill’s sponsors, said eight of 20 major automakers including Ford, BMW and Tesla have pulled the band from new vehicles.Ford removed AM from the 2023 Mustang Mach-e and F-150 Lightning electric pickups after data collected from vehicles showed that less than 5% of customers listened to it, spokesman Alan Hall said. Electrical interference and reducing cost and manufacturing complexity also played a role.The company also took it out of the 2024 gasoline-powered Mustang, but will add it back in before any of the muscle cars are delivered, Hall said.The EVs will get an online software update to put AM back into the vehicles, and Ford will keep including it in future vehicles as it looks at innovative ways to deliver emergency alerts, Hall said.Ford and others also suggested that internet radio or other communication tools could replace AM radio. But Markey and others pointed to situations where drivers might not have internet access.The Federal Communications Commission and National Association of Broadcasters praised the legislation, which is also backed by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., Rep. Tom Kean, Jr., R-N.J., Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash., among others.But the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, a U.S. trade group that represents major automakers including Ford and BMW, criticized the bill, calling the AM radio mandate unnecessary.The trade group pointed to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System, which can distribute safety warnings across AM, FM, internet-based and satellite radios — as well as over cellular networks.The alliance said the bill gives preference to a technology that's competing with other communications options.Messages were left Tuesday seeking comment from BMW and Tesla.According to the National Association of Broadcasters and Nielsen data, more than 80 million people in the U.S. listen to AM radio every month.

Ford decides to keep AM radio on 2024 models

The American Farm Bureau Federation signed two more memoranda of understanding with two agricultural equipment manufacturers. 

The new MOUs were signed by AGCO and Kubota, providing farmers and ranchers the right to repair their own farm equipment. 

The MOUs, negotiated independently with each manufacturer, follow similar agreements AFBF entered into with John Deere and CNH Industrial Brands earlier this year. 

The four MOUs cover roughly 70 percent of the agricultural machinery sold in the United States. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “These agreements represent ongoing efforts to ensure farmers have access to the tools necessary to keep their equipment running.” 

The MOUs set a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico to access AGCO and Kubota manuals, tools, product guides and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines, as well as support from the manufacturers to directly purchase or lease diagnostic tools and order products and parts.

The American Farm Bureau Federation signed two more memoranda of understanding with two agricultural equipment manufacturers. The new MOUs were signed by AGCO and Kubota, providing farmers and ranchers the right to repair their own farm equipment. The MOUs, negotiated independently with each manufacturer, follow similar agreements AFBF entered into with John Deere and CNH Industrial Brands earlier this year. The four MOUs cover roughly 70 percent of the agricultural machinery sold in the United States. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “These agreements represent ongoing efforts to ensure farmers have access to the tools necessary to keep their equipment running.” The MOUs set a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico to access AGCO and Kubota manuals, tools, product guides and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines, as well as support from the manufacturers to directly purchase or lease diagnostic tools and order products and parts.- NAFB

New Right to Repair MOUs bring industry coverage to 70%

The Department of Agriculture Monday announced an effort to help rural communities to address some of their immediate needs and foster long-term economic growth. 

USDA is providing loans and grants to help people living in rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care. 

The funding will support 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. 

In the West, the funding will help Tribal communities improve water and wastewater services and bring solar power and other forms of renewable energy to Tribal lands and farms. 

For people in Southern communities, projects will increase access to fresh foods in high-poverty areas and allow electric cooperatives to connect thousands of people to power with smart-grid technologies. 

The announcement includes $394 million in awards from USDA that will benefit communities and support their long-term visions for strong, local economies.

The Department of Agriculture Monday announced an effort to help rural communities to address some of their immediate needs and foster long-term economic growth. USDA is providing loans and grants to help people living in rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care. The funding will support 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. In the West, the funding will help Tribal communities improve water and wastewater services and bring solar power and other forms of renewable energy to Tribal lands and farms. For people in Southern communities, projects will increase access to fresh foods in high-poverty areas and allow electric cooperatives to connect thousands of people to power with smart-grid technologies. The announcement includes $394 million in awards from USDA that will benefit communities and support their long-term visions for strong, local economies.- NAFB

USDA to bring jobs and improved infrastructure to Rural Partners Network

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows that less than one percent of farm estates created in 2022 must file an estate tax return. 

Created in 1916, the federal estate tax is a tax on the transfer of property to a person's heirs upon death. 

In 2022, the Federal estate tax exemption amount was $12.06 million per person, and the federal estate tax rate was 40 percent. 

Under the present law, the estate of a person who owns assets above the exemption amount at death must file a federal estate tax return. However, only returns with an estate above the exemption after deductions for expenses, debts, and bequests will pay federal estate tax. 

Researchers estimate that in 2022, 39,500 estates were created from principal operator deaths. Of those estates, ERS forecasts that 305, or 0.77 percent, will be required to file an estate tax return, and a further 87, or 0.22 percent, will likely owe Federal estate tax.

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows that less than one percent of farm estates created in 2022 must file an estate tax return. Created in 1916, the federal estate tax is a tax on the transfer of property to a person's heirs upon death. In 2022, the Federal estate tax exemption amount was $12.06 million per person, and the federal estate tax rate was 40 percent. Under the present law, the estate of a person who owns assets above the exemption amount at death must file a federal estate tax return. However, only returns with an estate above the exemption after deductions for expenses, debts, and bequests will pay federal estate tax. Researchers estimate that in 2022, 39,500 estates were created from principal operator deaths. Of those estates, ERS forecasts that 305, or 0.77 percent, will be required to file an estate tax return, and a further 87, or 0.22 percent, will likely owe Federal estate tax.- NAFB

Data shows few farm estates must file estate tax return

The Army Corps of Engineers held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the beginning of repairs to a lock and dam on the Upper Mississippi River that’s crucial to shipping corn and other commodities. 

Lock and Dam 25, almost 50 miles north of St. Louis, hasn’t been extensively repaired since it was constructed in the early 20th century. 

Funding for the project was included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. 

The Illinois Corn Growers Association, long at the forefront of advocating for updates to the Lock and Dam, applauded the development. “Our hope is this will be the beginning of a waterfall of infrastructure work on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers,” says ICGA President Matt Rush. 

Lock and Dam 25 is crucially important to corn growers as 60 percent of corn and soybean exports are transported on the Mississippi River. The river is important in shipping products both domestically and abroad.

The Army Corps of Engineers held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the beginning of repairs to a lock and dam on the Upper Mississippi River that’s crucial to shipping corn and other commodities. Lock and Dam 25, almost 50 miles north of St. Louis, hasn’t been extensively repaired since it was constructed in the early 20th century. Funding for the project was included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Illinois Corn Growers Association, long at the forefront of advocating for updates to the Lock and Dam, applauded the development. “Our hope is this will be the beginning of a waterfall of infrastructure work on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers,” says ICGA President Matt Rush. Lock and Dam 25 is crucially important to corn growers as 60 percent of corn and soybean exports are transported on the Mississippi River. The river is important in shipping products both domestically and abroad.- NAFB

Updates begin on improving Mississippi River infrastructure

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack plans to roll out $3.7 billion in Emergency Relief Program and Emergency Livestock Relief Program assistance to crop and livestock producers. 

The funds will help producers who sustained losses due to a qualifying natural disaster event during calendar year 2022. 

USDA is sharing the information early to allow producers time to gather documents in advance of program delivery. 

“U.S. ag producers nationwide endured crippling natural disaster events in 2022, including a mega-drought, hurricane, flooding, and wildfires,” Vilsack says. “While we have streamlined our delivery of natural disaster assistance, funding is limited and significantly less than the estimated losses.” 

He also says they’re designing payment factors to help as many producers as possible to offset the significant financial impacts resulting from these ongoing and widespread natural disasters. 

Producers who have participated in FSA programs likely have the required forms on file. Contact your local USDA Service Center with questions.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack plans to roll out $3.7 billion in Emergency Relief Program and Emergency Livestock Relief Program assistance to crop and livestock producers. The funds will help producers who sustained losses due to a qualifying natural disaster event during calendar year 2022. USDA is sharing the information early to allow producers time to gather documents in advance of program delivery. “U.S. ag producers nationwide endured crippling natural disaster events in 2022, including a mega-drought, hurricane, flooding, and wildfires,” Vilsack says. “While we have streamlined our delivery of natural disaster assistance, funding is limited and significantly less than the estimated losses.” He also says they’re designing payment factors to help as many producers as possible to offset the significant financial impacts resulting from these ongoing and widespread natural disasters. Producers who have participated in FSA programs likely have the required forms on file. Contact your local USDA Service Center with questions.- NAFB

USDA previews emergency relief for agricultural producers

South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds and 15 other senators sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management asking them to withdraw the proposed Public Lands Rule. 

The bureau says this rule would let conservationists lease federal land.&nbsp;&nbsp;The senators say it’s intended to set conservation equal to other land uses. 

The proposal would negatively affect western states, including South Dakota because their economies rely on public land for cattle grazing, energy development, and tourism. 

“It’s clear that anti-grazing and anti-development organizations would abuse this tool to attempt to halt ranching and block access to our nation’s abundant energy reserves located on public lands,” the letter says. 

Supporters of this rule say land conservation is necessary to protect the environment. They argue that the rule will not impede current land uses. The BLM website says the bureau will host public meetings, virtually and in person, to discuss the proposed rule.&nbsp;

South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds and 15 other senators sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management asking them to withdraw the proposed Public Lands Rule. The bureau says this rule would let conservationists lease federal land.&nbsp;&nbsp;The senators say it’s intended to set conservation equal to other land uses. The proposal would negatively affect western states, including South Dakota because their economies rely on public land for cattle grazing, energy development, and tourism. “It’s clear that anti-grazing and anti-development organizations would abuse this tool to attempt to halt ranching and block access to our nation’s abundant energy reserves located on public lands,” the letter says. Supporters of this rule say land conservation is necessary to protect the environment. They argue that the rule will not impede current land uses. The BLM website says the bureau will host public meetings, virtually and in person, to discuss the proposed rule.&nbsp;- NAFB