The USDA is planning to invest up to $500 million to increase the availability of domestic biofuels and give Americans additional cleaner-fuel options at the pump. 

“By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we’re strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers, and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities.” 

The first group of applicants for funding through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program will receive $25 million for 59 infrastructure projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;In July, the USDA will start accepting applications for another $450 million in grants through the HBIIP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These grants will support the infrastructure needed to lower out-of-pocket costs for transportation, fueling, and distribution facilities to install and upgrade biofuel-related infrastructure like pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks. Grants cover up to 75 percent or $5 million of total project costs to help facilities convert to higher-blend fuels.

The USDA is planning to invest up to $500 million to increase the availability of domestic biofuels and give Americans additional cleaner-fuel options at the pump. “By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we’re strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers, and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities.” The first group of applicants for funding through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program will receive $25 million for 59 infrastructure projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;In July, the USDA will start accepting applications for another $450 million in grants through the HBIIP.&nbsp;&nbsp;These grants will support the infrastructure needed to lower out-of-pocket costs for transportation, fueling, and distribution facilities to install and upgrade biofuel-related infrastructure like pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks. Grants cover up to 75 percent or $5 million of total project costs to help facilities convert to higher-blend fuels.- NAFB

USDA investing $500 million to expand domestic biofuels

Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act. 

It would equip new producers, beginning farmers, and U.S. veterans with the crop insurance protections they need to be productive, profitable, and successful. 

The legislation would align the definition of “Beginning Farmer” to match most other beginning-farmer programs, extending crop and livestock insurance protections to ten years for new and beginning farmers. 

This increase to ten years would apply to all federal crop insurance programs, including livestock policies. “We have to do a better job of helping new farmers build successful operations,” Craig says. 

“We’re working to strengthen the farm safety net and ensure we’re preparing the next generation of family farmers.” Recent estimates say 34 percent of all U.S. producers are over 65 years old, while only eight percent were under 35. Forty percent of all farmlands will transfer ownership over the next 20 years. &nbsp;

Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act. It would equip new producers, beginning farmers, and U.S. veterans with the crop insurance protections they need to be productive, profitable, and successful. The legislation would align the definition of “Beginning Farmer” to match most other beginning-farmer programs, extending crop and livestock insurance protections to ten years for new and beginning farmers. This increase to ten years would apply to all federal crop insurance programs, including livestock policies. “We have to do a better job of helping new farmers build successful operations,” Craig says. “We’re working to strengthen the farm safety net and ensure we’re preparing the next generation of family farmers.” Recent estimates say 34 percent of all U.S. producers are over 65 years old, while only eight percent were under 35. Forty percent of all farmlands will transfer ownership over the next 20 years. &nbsp;- NAFB

Plan would increase access to crop and livestock insurance

Farmers for Free Trade issued a statement responding to the resolution of a number of trade disputes between India and the U.S. FFT Executive Director Brian Kuehl says India has always represented an enormous market for America’s ag exports. 

“While there has long been frustration over unnecessary barriers to entry into the Indian market, this announcement is a positive step forward in removing tariffs and opening trade,” he says. 

“The fact that India placed tariffs on U.S. products in the first place is a reminder of the damage trade wars caused here at home.” 

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the removal of the tariffs is a major win for America’s farmers. “Producers will now be able to increase sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of America’s top trading partners,” Vilsack says. “USDA applauds the Office of the USTR for their diligence in reaching this welcome agreement."

Farmers for Free Trade issued a statement responding to the resolution of a number of trade disputes between India and the U.S. FFT Executive Director Brian Kuehl says India has always represented an enormous market for America’s ag exports. “While there has long been frustration over unnecessary barriers to entry into the Indian market, this announcement is a positive step forward in removing tariffs and opening trade,” he says. “The fact that India placed tariffs on U.S. products in the first place is a reminder of the damage trade wars caused here at home.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the removal of the tariffs is a major win for America’s farmers. “Producers will now be able to increase sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of America’s top trading partners,” Vilsack says. “USDA applauds the Office of the USTR for their diligence in reaching this welcome agreement."- NAFB

Ag reacts to the dispute settlement between the U.S. and India

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the United States and India have agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. 

India also agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs that it imposed in response to the U.S. Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. 

The Indian tariffs included American products like chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, and apples. 

These tariff cuts will restore and expand market opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers. “This agreement represents the culmination of intensified bilateral engagement over the last two years to deepen our economic and trade ties,” Tai says. 

“The result is U.S. producers and manufacturers will now enjoy renewed access to a critical global market, and we will strengthen our trade relationship with one of our closest partners.” 

As India’s Prime Minister makes an official state visit to the U.S., Tai says the agreement opens a new chapter of bilateral cooperation.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the United States and India have agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India also agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs that it imposed in response to the U.S. Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. The Indian tariffs included American products like chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, and apples. These tariff cuts will restore and expand market opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers. “This agreement represents the culmination of intensified bilateral engagement over the last two years to deepen our economic and trade ties,” Tai says. “The result is U.S. producers and manufacturers will now enjoy renewed access to a critical global market, and we will strengthen our trade relationship with one of our closest partners.” As India’s Prime Minister makes an official state visit to the U.S., Tai says the agreement opens a new chapter of bilateral cooperation.- NAFB

U.S. and India announce resolution on key trade issues

Despite mostly near- to below-normal temps in much of the Midwest, excluding the Upper Midwest and Western Corn Belt, much of the region didn’t see appreciable rainfall. 

As a result, short-term dryness continued to worsen, leading to widespread deterioration. 

The only improvements took place in the Eastern Corn Belt and Kentucky. Much of the Northern Plains had below-average rainfall during the week, adding to short-term precipitation deficits. 

Above-normal temps and high winds only made drought conditions worse by increasing moisture loss from soils and vegetation. Several rounds of heavy rainfall with thunderstorms traveled through the south from Oklahoma to Mississippi, leading to targeted improvements in abnormal dryness. 

Improvements took place in the Texas Panhandle because of well-above-average rainfall. However, the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys saw short-term dryness continue to increase. Another week of above-normal rainfall across many areas of the Intermountain West resulted in widespread but targeted improvements. &nbsp;

Despite mostly near- to below-normal temps in much of the Midwest, excluding the Upper Midwest and Western Corn Belt, much of the region didn’t see appreciable rainfall. As a result, short-term dryness continued to worsen, leading to widespread deterioration. The only improvements took place in the Eastern Corn Belt and Kentucky. Much of the Northern Plains had below-average rainfall during the week, adding to short-term precipitation deficits. Above-normal temps and high winds only made drought conditions worse by increasing moisture loss from soils and vegetation. Several rounds of heavy rainfall with thunderstorms traveled through the south from Oklahoma to Mississippi, leading to targeted improvements in abnormal dryness. Improvements took place in the Texas Panhandle because of well-above-average rainfall. However, the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys saw short-term dryness continue to increase. Another week of above-normal rainfall across many areas of the Intermountain West resulted in widespread but targeted improvements. &nbsp;- NAFB

Drought intensifies in several parts of Rural America

New data released this week from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows access to primary care physicians varies across the United States. 

The number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents is generally higher in much of the Northeast, along the West Coast, in Hawaii, and parts of the mountainous West and upper Midwest. The availability of primary care physicians per capita is generally lower in much of the Great Plains—especially the Southern Great Plains—and the Lower Mississippi Delta and Southeast. However, there are substantial variations in the availability of physicians within these regions. 

For instance, in rural counties, there are fewer physicians per capita in counties adjacent to urban counties than in those farther from urban areas. USDA says this is likely because residents travel from nearby rural areas to urban doctors. The lowest rates of physicians per capita are in rural counties with an urban population of less than 2,500.

New data released this week from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows access to primary care physicians varies across the United States. The number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents is generally higher in much of the Northeast, along the West Coast, in Hawaii, and parts of the mountainous West and upper Midwest. The availability of primary care physicians per capita is generally lower in much of the Great Plains—especially the Southern Great Plains—and the Lower Mississippi Delta and Southeast. However, there are substantial variations in the availability of physicians within these regions. For instance, in rural counties, there are fewer physicians per capita in counties adjacent to urban counties than in those farther from urban areas. USDA says this is likely because residents travel from nearby rural areas to urban doctors. The lowest rates of physicians per capita are in rural counties with an urban population of less than 2,500.NAFB

USDA: Access to primary care varies across the country

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack heads to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota Monday. The Department of Agriculture says Vilsack will announce significant new funding being awarded by USDA to bolster and expand the availability of homegrown biofuels nationwide. 

During the event, USDA says Vilsack will also underscore USDA's efforts to invest in climate-related research and development in states like Minnesota, which helps result in scientific breakthroughs such as innovative biofuel technologies that combat the climate crisis, lower costs for American producers and families, and boost American energy independence. In the briefing regarding the announcement, USDA did not announce an exact location for the event. 

The announcement is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and building a clean energy economy to tackle the climate crisis and make our communities more resilient.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack heads to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota Monday. The Department of Agriculture says Vilsack will announce significant new funding being awarded by USDA to bolster and expand the availability of homegrown biofuels nationwide. During the event, USDA says Vilsack will also underscore USDA's efforts to invest in climate-related research and development in states like Minnesota, which helps result in scientific breakthroughs such as innovative biofuel technologies that combat the climate crisis, lower costs for American producers and families, and boost American energy independence. In the briefing regarding the announcement, USDA did not announce an exact location for the event. The announcement is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and building a clean energy economy to tackle the climate crisis and make our communities more resilient.NAFB

Vilsack to announce biofuels funding Monday

Lawmakers this week introduced the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill would “keep food in America’s international food aid programs.” Specifically, the legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, all while safeguarding the interests of U.S. farmers. 

U.S. Wheat Associates joined the National Association of Wheat Growers and other agricultural organizations for the introduction of the bill Thursday. USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman says, “The reforms in the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 will ensure that more food gets to more people in need throughout the world, without spending any additional resources.” 

Representative Tracy Mann, a Kansas Republican who joined colleagues to introduce the legislation, says, “This bill puts a stake in the ground: it’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.”

Lawmakers this week introduced the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill would “keep food in America’s international food aid programs.” Specifically, the legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, all while safeguarding the interests of U.S. farmers. U.S. Wheat Associates joined the National Association of Wheat Growers and other agricultural organizations for the introduction of the bill Thursday. USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman says, “The reforms in the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 will ensure that more food gets to more people in need throughout the world, without spending any additional resources.” Representative Tracy Mann, a Kansas Republican who joined colleagues to introduce the legislation, says, “This bill puts a stake in the ground: it’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.”NAFB

Lawmakers introduce American Farmers Feed the World Act

Large
loads of hay may be transported in Missouri without the usual charge for
over-width hauling.

Northwest
Missouri Department of Transportation District Engineer Marty Liles says it is
in response to the dry conditions farmers face this summer.

“Basically,
we have about half of our Missouri counties that are in some sort of drought,
some worse than others,” Liles tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Gov.
Mike Parson issued a declaration of drought, triggering the state response to
spreading drought conditions in Missouri. While parts of central Missouri and a
small portion of northeast Missouri are in extreme drought, other parts of
Missouri, including much of northwest Missouri, are considered abnormally dry.

As
part of the state response, MoDOT will waive the $96 blanket fee for hay loads exceeding
12-feet, six-inches and $15 fee for single trips of up to 14 feet in width.
Permits must still be obtained from the <a href="https://www.modot.org/mcs">MoDOT Carrier Division</a>. The exemption
will last through December 1st.

Under the drought exemption, hay can be hauled
during holidays and at night.

Liles
says it’s common to see a lot of hay moving this time of year in northwest Missouri.

“I
definitely can see as I drive around on the roadways, looking at our highway
system, you see a lot of hay being bailed right now and a lot of it being hauled,”
Liles says.

MoDOT permits cover movement within Missouri
only and are required for each truck. Questions may be directed to MoDOT’s
Motor Carrier Services office at 1-800-877-8499.

Follow Brent Martin @GBrentKFEQ and @StJosephPost

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLarge
loads of hay may be transported in Missouri without the usual charge for
over-width hauling.Northwest
Missouri Department of Transportation District Engineer Marty Liles says it is
in response to the dry conditions farmers face this summer.“Basically,
we have about half of our Missouri counties that are in some sort of drought,
some worse than others,” Liles tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Gov.
Mike Parson issued a declaration of drought, triggering the state response to
spreading drought conditions in Missouri. While parts of central Missouri and a
small portion of northeast Missouri are in extreme drought, other parts of
Missouri, including much of northwest Missouri, are considered abnormally dry.As
part of the state response, MoDOT will waive the $96 blanket fee for hay loads exceeding
12-feet, six-inches and $15 fee for single trips of up to 14 feet in width.
Permits must still be obtained from the <a href="https://www.modot.org/mcs">MoDOT Carrier Division</a>. The exemption
will last through December 1st.Under the drought exemption, hay can be hauled
during holidays and at night.Liles
says it’s common to see a lot of hay moving this time of year in northwest Missouri.“I
definitely can see as I drive around on the roadways, looking at our highway
system, you see a lot of hay being bailed right now and a lot of it being hauled,”
Liles says.MoDOT permits cover movement within Missouri
only and are required for each truck. Questions may be directed to MoDOT’s
Motor Carrier Services office at 1-800-877-8499.Follow Brent Martin @GBrentKFEQ and @StJosephPost

MoDOT lifts fees to move hay during drought

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Santiago, Chile, September 25-29. 

American agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from both Chile and Peru. 

The trade mission coincides with Peru’s USDA-endorsed food trade show that offers additional networking opportunities for participants. 

“This year, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Chile diplomatic relations,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Chile and the neighboring Peru are some of our key trading partners, representing the second and third-largest markets in South America.” 

Total agricultural exports to these markets have grown significantly since establishing the Chile Free Trade Agreement and the Peru Trade Promotions Agreement. Exports to this region exceeded $2 billion in 2022. 

During January-April 2023, U.S. ag exports to Chile have increased by four percent from the same period last year. The region features relatively high per capita incomes and purchasing power.

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Santiago, Chile, September 25-29. American agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from both Chile and Peru. The trade mission coincides with Peru’s USDA-endorsed food trade show that offers additional networking opportunities for participants. “This year, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Chile diplomatic relations,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Chile and the neighboring Peru are some of our key trading partners, representing the second and third-largest markets in South America.” Total agricultural exports to these markets have grown significantly since establishing the Chile Free Trade Agreement and the Peru Trade Promotions Agreement. Exports to this region exceeded $2 billion in 2022. During January-April 2023, U.S. ag exports to Chile have increased by four percent from the same period last year. The region features relatively high per capita incomes and purchasing power.- NAFB

USDA accepting applications for Chile Agribusiness Trade Mission

WASHINGTON (AP) —For the first time, U.S. regulators on Wednesday approved the sale of chicken made from animal cells, allowing two California companies to offer “lab-grown” meat to the nation's restaurant tables and eventually, supermarket shelves.

The Agriculture Department gave the green light to Upside Foods and Good Meat, firms that had been racing to be the first in the U.S. to sell meat that doesn't come from slaughtered animals — what's now being referred to as “cell-cultivated" or “cultured” meat as it emerges from the laboratory and arrives on dinner plates.

The move launches a new era of meat production aimed at eliminating harm to animals and drastically reducing the environmental impacts of grazing, growing feed for animals and animal waste.

“Instead of all of that land and all of that water that's used to feed all of these animals that are slaughtered, we can do it in a different way," said Josh Tetrick, co-founder and chief executive of Eat Just, which operates Good Meat.

The companies received approvals for federal inspections required to sell meat and poultry in the U.S. The action came months after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed that products from both companies are safe to eat. A manufacturing company called Joinn Biologics, which works with Good Meat, was also cleared to make the products.

Cultivated meat is grown in steel tanks, using cells that come from a living animal, a fertilized egg or a special bank of stored cells. In Upside's case, it comes out in large sheets that are then formed into shapes like chicken cutlets and sausages. Good Meat, which already sells cultivated meat in Singapore, the first country to allow it, turns masses of chicken cells into cutlets, nuggets, shredded meat and satays.

But don’t look for this novel meat in U.S. grocery stores anytime soon. Cultivated chicken is much more expensive than meat from whole, farmed birds and cannot yet be produced on the scale of traditional meat, said Ricardo San Martin, director of the Alt:Meat Lab at University of California Berkeley.

The companies plan to serve the new food first in exclusive restaurants: Upside has partnered with a San Francisco restaurant called Bar Crenn, while Good Meat dishes will be served at a Washington, D.C., restaurant run by chef and owner Jose Andrés.

Company officials are quick to note the products are meat, not substitutes like the Impossible Burger or offerings from Beyond Meat, which are made from plant proteins and other ingredients.

Globally, more than 150 companies are focusing on meat from cells, not only chicken but pork, lamb, fish and beef, which scientists say has the biggest impact on the environment.

Upside, based in Berkeley, operates a 70,000-square-foot building in nearby Emeryville. On a recent Tuesday, visitors entered a gleaming commercial kitchen where chef Jess Weaver was sauteeing a cultivated chicken filet in a white wine butter sauce with tomatoes, capers and green onions.

The finished chicken breast product was slightly paler than the grocery store version. Otherwise it looked, cooked, smelled and tasted like any other pan-fried poultry.

“The most common response we get is, ‘Oh, it tastes like chicken,’” said Amy Chen, Upside’s chief operating officer.

Good Meat, based in Alameda, operates a 100,000-square-foot plant, where chef Zach Tyndall dished up a smoked chicken salad on a sunny June afternoon. He followed it with a chicken “thigh” served on a bed of potato puree with a mushroom-vegetable demi-glace and tiny purple cauliflower florets. The Good Meat chicken product will come pre-cooked, requiring only heating to use in a range of dishes.

Chen acknowledged that many consumers are skeptical, even squeamish, about the thought of eating chicken grown from cells.

“We call it the ‘ick factor,’” she said.

The sentiment was echoed in a recent poll conducted by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Half of U.S. adults said that they are unlikely to try meat grown using cells from animals. When asked to choose from a list of reasons for their reluctance, most who said they'd be unlikely to try it said “it just sounds weird.” About half said they don’t think it would be safe.

But once people understand how the meat is made, they’re more accepting, Chen said. And once they taste it, they're usually sold.

“It is the meat that you’ve always known and loved," she said.

Cultivated meat begins with cells. Upside experts take cells from live animals, choosing those most likely to taste good and to reproduce quickly and consistently, forming high-quality meat, Chen said. Good Meat products are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/166346/download">created from</a>&nbsp;a master cell bank formed from a commercially available chicken cell line.

Once the cell lines are selected, they’re combined with a broth-like mixture that includes the amino acids, fatty acids, sugars, salts, vitamins and other elements cells need to grow. Inside the tanks, called cultivators, the cells grow, proliferating quickly. At Upside, muscle and connective tissue cells grow together, forming large sheets. After about three weeks, the sheets of poultry cells are removed from the tanks and formed into cutlets, sausages or other foods. Good Meat cells grow into large masses, which are shaped into a range of meat products.

Both firms emphasized that initial production will be limited. The Emeryville facility can produce up to 50,000 pounds of cultivated meat products a year, though the goal is to expand to 400,000 pounds per year, Upside officials said. Good Meat officials wouldn't estimate a production goal.

By comparison, the U.S. produces about 50 billion pounds of chicken per year.

It could take a few years before consumers see the products in more restaurants and seven to 10 years before they hit the wider market, said Sebastian Bohn, who specializes in cell-based foods at CRB, a Missouri firm that designs and builds facilities for pharmaceutical, biotech and food companies.

Cost will be another sticking point. Neither Upside nor Good Meat officials would reveal the price of a single chicken cutlet, saying only that it’s been reduced by orders of magnitude since the firms began offering demonstrations. Eventually, the price is expected to mirror high-end organic chicken, which sells for up to $20 per pound.

San Martin said he’s concerned that cultivated meat may wind up being an alternative to traditional meat for rich people, but will do little for the environment if it remains a niche product.

“If some high-end or affluent people want to eat this instead of a chicken, it's good,” he said. "Will that mean you will feed chicken to poor people? I honestly don't see it."

Tetrick said he shares critics' concerns about the challenges of producing an affordable, novel meat product for the world. But he emphasized that traditional meat production is so damaging to the planet it requires an alternative — preferably one that doesn't require giving up meat all together.

“I miss meat," said Tetrick, who grew up in Alabama eating chicken wings and barbecue. “There should be a different way that people can enjoy chicken and beef and pork with their families."

WASHINGTON (AP) —For the first time, U.S. regulators on Wednesday approved the sale of chicken made from animal cells, allowing two California companies to offer “lab-grown” meat to the nation's restaurant tables and eventually, supermarket shelves.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgoodmeat%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0114d5rGCnk48cEZR848wMs58K9WnD55tTqPXEmghghAiDg2eY758Jwfd7eHqJpidl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="732" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The Agriculture Department gave the green light to Upside Foods and Good Meat, firms that had been racing to be the first in the U.S. to sell meat that doesn't come from slaughtered animals — what's now being referred to as “cell-cultivated" or “cultured” meat as it emerges from the laboratory and arrives on dinner plates.The move launches a new era of meat production aimed at eliminating harm to animals and drastically reducing the environmental impacts of grazing, growing feed for animals and animal waste.“Instead of all of that land and all of that water that's used to feed all of these animals that are slaughtered, we can do it in a different way," said Josh Tetrick, co-founder and chief executive of Eat Just, which operates Good Meat.The companies received approvals for federal inspections required to sell meat and poultry in the U.S. The action came months after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed that products from both companies are safe to eat. A manufacturing company called Joinn Biologics, which works with Good Meat, was also cleared to make the products.Cultivated meat is grown in steel tanks, using cells that come from a living animal, a fertilized egg or a special bank of stored cells. In Upside's case, it comes out in large sheets that are then formed into shapes like chicken cutlets and sausages. Good Meat, which already sells cultivated meat in Singapore, the first country to allow it, turns masses of chicken cells into cutlets, nuggets, shredded meat and satays.But don’t look for this novel meat in U.S. grocery stores anytime soon. Cultivated chicken is much more expensive than meat from whole, farmed birds and cannot yet be produced on the scale of traditional meat, said Ricardo San Martin, director of the Alt:Meat Lab at University of California Berkeley.The companies plan to serve the new food first in exclusive restaurants: Upside has partnered with a San Francisco restaurant called Bar Crenn, while Good Meat dishes will be served at a Washington, D.C., restaurant run by chef and owner Jose Andrés.Company officials are quick to note the products are meat, not substitutes like the Impossible Burger or offerings from Beyond Meat, which are made from plant proteins and other ingredients.Globally, more than 150 companies are focusing on meat from cells, not only chicken but pork, lamb, fish and beef, which scientists say has the biggest impact on the environment.Upside, based in Berkeley, operates a 70,000-square-foot building in nearby Emeryville. On a recent Tuesday, visitors entered a gleaming commercial kitchen where chef Jess Weaver was sauteeing a cultivated chicken filet in a white wine butter sauce with tomatoes, capers and green onions.The finished chicken breast product was slightly paler than the grocery store version. Otherwise it looked, cooked, smelled and tasted like any other pan-fried poultry.“The most common response we get is, ‘Oh, it tastes like chicken,’” said Amy Chen, Upside’s chief operating officer.Good Meat, based in Alameda, operates a 100,000-square-foot plant, where chef Zach Tyndall dished up a smoked chicken salad on a sunny June afternoon. He followed it with a chicken “thigh” served on a bed of potato puree with a mushroom-vegetable demi-glace and tiny purple cauliflower florets. The Good Meat chicken product will come pre-cooked, requiring only heating to use in a range of dishes.Chen acknowledged that many consumers are skeptical, even squeamish, about the thought of eating chicken grown from cells.“We call it the ‘ick factor,’” she said.The sentiment was echoed in a recent poll conducted by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Half of U.S. adults said that they are unlikely to try meat grown using cells from animals. When asked to choose from a list of reasons for their reluctance, most who said they'd be unlikely to try it said “it just sounds weird.” About half said they don’t think it would be safe.But once people understand how the meat is made, they’re more accepting, Chen said. And once they taste it, they're usually sold.“It is the meat that you’ve always known and loved," she said.Cultivated meat begins with cells. Upside experts take cells from live animals, choosing those most likely to taste good and to reproduce quickly and consistently, forming high-quality meat, Chen said. Good Meat products are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/166346/download">created from</a>&nbsp;a master cell bank formed from a commercially available chicken cell line.Once the cell lines are selected, they’re combined with a broth-like mixture that includes the amino acids, fatty acids, sugars, salts, vitamins and other elements cells need to grow. Inside the tanks, called cultivators, the cells grow, proliferating quickly. At Upside, muscle and connective tissue cells grow together, forming large sheets. After about three weeks, the sheets of poultry cells are removed from the tanks and formed into cutlets, sausages or other foods. Good Meat cells grow into large masses, which are shaped into a range of meat products.Both firms emphasized that initial production will be limited. The Emeryville facility can produce up to 50,000 pounds of cultivated meat products a year, though the goal is to expand to 400,000 pounds per year, Upside officials said. Good Meat officials wouldn't estimate a production goal.By comparison, the U.S. produces about 50 billion pounds of chicken per year.It could take a few years before consumers see the products in more restaurants and seven to 10 years before they hit the wider market, said Sebastian Bohn, who specializes in cell-based foods at CRB, a Missouri firm that designs and builds facilities for pharmaceutical, biotech and food companies.Cost will be another sticking point. Neither Upside nor Good Meat officials would reveal the price of a single chicken cutlet, saying only that it’s been reduced by orders of magnitude since the firms began offering demonstrations. Eventually, the price is expected to mirror high-end organic chicken, which sells for up to $20 per pound.San Martin said he’s concerned that cultivated meat may wind up being an alternative to traditional meat for rich people, but will do little for the environment if it remains a niche product.“If some high-end or affluent people want to eat this instead of a chicken, it's good,” he said. "Will that mean you will feed chicken to poor people? I honestly don't see it."Tetrick said he shares critics' concerns about the challenges of producing an affordable, novel meat product for the world. But he emphasized that traditional meat production is so damaging to the planet it requires an alternative — preferably one that doesn't require giving up meat all together.“I miss meat," said Tetrick, who grew up in Alabama eating chicken wings and barbecue. “There should be a different way that people can enjoy chicken and beef and pork with their families."

U.S. approves the nation's first 'lab-grown' meat

Representatives from Wisconsin and California introduced the “Naturally Offsetting Emissions by Managing and Implementing Tillage Strategies” or “NO EMIT’s Act.” 

The bill would help support farmers in improving soil health. 

American Farmland Trust applauded the bipartisan bill’s introduction and its inclusion of one of AFT’s top farm bill priorities: establishing a federal match for state and Tribal soil health programs. 

“In recent years, states have begun creating innovative soil health programs that fill current gaps in support and help producers voluntarily adopt soil health practices in locally tailored ways,” says Tim Fink, AFT Policy Director. 

“State programs can struggle to keep pace with producer demand, so creating a federal program to match state and Tribal funding would help leverage existing soil health programs and incentivizes others to create programs of their own.” Creating that federal matching program has broad support from AFT, six state agencies, and stakeholders from 29 states.

Representatives from Wisconsin and California introduced the “Naturally Offsetting Emissions by Managing and Implementing Tillage Strategies” or “NO EMIT’s Act.” The bill would help support farmers in improving soil health. American Farmland Trust applauded the bipartisan bill’s introduction and its inclusion of one of AFT’s top farm bill priorities: establishing a federal match for state and Tribal soil health programs. “In recent years, states have begun creating innovative soil health programs that fill current gaps in support and help producers voluntarily adopt soil health practices in locally tailored ways,” says Tim Fink, AFT Policy Director. “State programs can struggle to keep pace with producer demand, so creating a federal program to match state and Tribal funding would help leverage existing soil health programs and incentivizes others to create programs of their own.” Creating that federal matching program has broad support from AFT, six state agencies, and stakeholders from 29 states.- NAFB

American Farmland Trust applauds No EMIT’s Act

A new survey from One Country Project shows that voters think health care in rural communities is markedly worse than in the rest of America. 

Those findings were revealed soon after the OCP hosted its annual Rural Progress Summit. 

Stakeholders from across the U.S. gathered to discuss challenges facing rural communities and the importance of elevating rural priorities on the national stage. 

“Access to quality, affordable health care shouldn’t be determined by your zip code,” says OCP Founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. 

More than 130 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. That leaves rural residents with no option but to travel hours to the nearest medical center, which is especially dangerous in a life-threatening emergency. 

Air ambulances are often relied on, and the survey shows overwhelming support, at 84 percent, for increasing the Medicare reimbursement rate for air medical services. Medicare currently covers just 50 percent of the associated costs.

A new survey from One Country Project shows that voters think health care in rural communities is markedly worse than in the rest of America. Those findings were revealed soon after the OCP hosted its annual Rural Progress Summit. Stakeholders from across the U.S. gathered to discuss challenges facing rural communities and the importance of elevating rural priorities on the national stage. “Access to quality, affordable health care shouldn’t be determined by your zip code,” says OCP Founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. More than 130 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. That leaves rural residents with no option but to travel hours to the nearest medical center, which is especially dangerous in a life-threatening emergency. Air ambulances are often relied on, and the survey shows overwhelming support, at 84 percent, for increasing the Medicare reimbursement rate for air medical services. Medicare currently covers just 50 percent of the associated costs.- NAFB

Poll shows voters think rural health care lags behind urban areas

The USDA is accepting nominations for county committee members. Local elections will occur later this year. 

County committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. 

All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received by the local Farm Service Agency by August 1. 

“Producers serving on FSA county committees play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the agency, serving as the eyes and ears of the producers who elected them,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Elections for members will take place in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). 

Ag producers who participate or cooperate in a USDA program or reside in the LAA that’s up for election this year may be nominated for candidacy. 

Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agricultural community serve on FSA county committees, which are made up of three to 11 members serving three-year terms.

The USDA is accepting nominations for county committee members. Local elections will occur later this year. County committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received by the local Farm Service Agency by August 1. “Producers serving on FSA county committees play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the agency, serving as the eyes and ears of the producers who elected them,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Elections for members will take place in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). Ag producers who participate or cooperate in a USDA program or reside in the LAA that’s up for election this year may be nominated for candidacy. Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agricultural community serve on FSA county committees, which are made up of three to 11 members serving three-year terms.- NAFB

County committee nominations are now open

A proposed rule allowing the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting people like farmers and ranchers who depend on the land. 

In a letter to BLM director Tracy Stone-Manning, about 60 livestock groups say cattle and sheep producers have partnered with BLM in managing 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. 

However, BLM didn’t engage them in developing the proposed rule and gave no warning ahead of time that it was developing a rule. 

“Individually, each of the components of the proposal would have required detailed discussion,” the letter says. “Together, the components demand BLM do the necessary work of engaging stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop lasting outcomes.” 

BLM’s five public information sessions have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussions. Instead of engaging stakeholders where they operate, BLM is holding briefings in urban areas.&nbsp;

A proposed rule allowing the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting people like farmers and ranchers who depend on the land. In a letter to BLM director Tracy Stone-Manning, about 60 livestock groups say cattle and sheep producers have partnered with BLM in managing 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. However, BLM didn’t engage them in developing the proposed rule and gave no warning ahead of time that it was developing a rule. “Individually, each of the components of the proposal would have required detailed discussion,” the letter says. “Together, the components demand BLM do the necessary work of engaging stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop lasting outcomes.” BLM’s five public information sessions have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussions. Instead of engaging stakeholders where they operate, BLM is holding briefings in urban areas.&nbsp;- NAFB

Public Lands Council, Western Governors lead BLM rule opposition

Several senators introduced legislation to invest in public research, develop regionally adapted seed varieties and animal breeds, and enable the U.S. to maintain a robust food and ag system. 

The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act promotes the development of ready-to-use, regionally adapted, and publicly available seed varieties and animal breeds. 

This would give farmers more tools to confront drought and varying growing conditions, and to have plant and animal varieties that are better suited to their area. 

Regionally developed seed varieties often result in substantial increases in hardiness and yields. It will also ensure America’s farmers have access to domestically produced seeds and breeds that are developed through publicly available research. 

“We must make sure our farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt and compete on a global stage,” says bill co-sponsor Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. “This will make sure our research keeps up with farmer innovation.”

Several senators introduced legislation to invest in public research, develop regionally adapted seed varieties and animal breeds, and enable the U.S. to maintain a robust food and ag system. The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act promotes the development of ready-to-use, regionally adapted, and publicly available seed varieties and animal breeds. This would give farmers more tools to confront drought and varying growing conditions, and to have plant and animal varieties that are better suited to their area. Regionally developed seed varieties often result in substantial increases in hardiness and yields. It will also ensure America’s farmers have access to domestically produced seeds and breeds that are developed through publicly available research. “We must make sure our farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt and compete on a global stage,” says bill co-sponsor Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. “This will make sure our research keeps up with farmer innovation.”- NAFB

Legislation supports advancements in ag research and innovation

The USDA is investing $320 million to create new and better markets for agricultural producers and food businesses in 19 states across rural America. 

“Our goal is to expand processing capacity, create fairer markets and more revenue streams and market opportunities to help bring down food costs for families at the grocery store,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. 

“We’re partnering with entrepreneurs in rural areas to build brighter futures, connect business owners to new markets, and create good jobs for generations to come.” 

USDA is investing the funds to strengthen food supply chains and create more opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs in 19 states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, and others. 

For example, family-owned businesses like a meat market and a bison processing facility will be able to expand their production capabilities, maintain the highest quality control possible, and save jobs. For more information on opportunities through USDA Rural Development, go to rd.usda.gov.

The USDA is investing $320 million to create new and better markets for agricultural producers and food businesses in 19 states across rural America. “Our goal is to expand processing capacity, create fairer markets and more revenue streams and market opportunities to help bring down food costs for families at the grocery store,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re partnering with entrepreneurs in rural areas to build brighter futures, connect business owners to new markets, and create good jobs for generations to come.” USDA is investing the funds to strengthen food supply chains and create more opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs in 19 states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, and others. For example, family-owned businesses like a meat market and a bison processing facility will be able to expand their production capabilities, maintain the highest quality control possible, and save jobs. For more information on opportunities through USDA Rural Development, go to rd.usda.gov.- NAFB

USDA investing $320 million to strengthen supply chains

The Weekly Drought Monitor showed above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures resulting in another week of some improvements in the western U.S. 

The exception is the Pacific Northwest, where drought conditions continue to worsen along the northern Cascade Mountains. 

The monitor shows a mix of improving and worsening conditions in the Great Plains. Improvements are confined mainly in the western Great Plains. 

The Corn Belt is seeing widespread degradation of moderate drought and abnormal dryness. High evaporation rates have resulted in significant loss of soil moisture. 

Any rainfall over the past week in the Southeast U.S. fell in areas that didn’t need it. Virginia is showing moderate drought and abnormal dryness is showing in other locations through the southeast. 

The Southern U.S. has more mixed totals. Locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee experienced increasing dryness. In western parts of the Southern Plains, pockets of heavy rainfall continued adding to 60-day precipitation surpluses.

The Weekly Drought Monitor showed above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures resulting in another week of some improvements in the western U.S. The exception is the Pacific Northwest, where drought conditions continue to worsen along the northern Cascade Mountains. The monitor shows a mix of improving and worsening conditions in the Great Plains. Improvements are confined mainly in the western Great Plains. The Corn Belt is seeing widespread degradation of moderate drought and abnormal dryness. High evaporation rates have resulted in significant loss of soil moisture. Any rainfall over the past week in the Southeast U.S. fell in areas that didn’t need it. Virginia is showing moderate drought and abnormal dryness is showing in other locations through the southeast. The Southern U.S. has more mixed totals. Locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee experienced increasing dryness. In western parts of the Southern Plains, pockets of heavy rainfall continued adding to 60-day precipitation surpluses.- NAFB

National Drought summary showing a mixed outlook

The National Corn Growers Association’s Board of Directors elected Ken Hartman, Jr., as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year starting on October 1. 

He’s a fifth-generation farmer operating a grain farm with his wife, Anita, daughter, Amanda, and mother, Joan, in Illinois. 

“I’m honored to continue serving America’s corn farmers with NCGA,” says Hartman. “I look forward to working with my fellow officers as we tackle issues that are critically important to corn growers and rural America.” 

Hartman currently chairs the NCGA Finance Committee. Hartman was honored by Prairie Farmer magazine with a Master Farmer Award in 2021 for his exceptional ag production skills and commitment to family and service. 

On October 1, Tom Haag&nbsp; of Minnesota becomes chairman, and the current first vice president, Harold Wolle of Minnesota, becomes NCGA president. In October 2024, Wolle becomes chairman, and Hartman becomes the organization’s President.

The National Corn Growers Association’s Board of Directors elected Ken Hartman, Jr., as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year starting on October 1. He’s a fifth-generation farmer operating a grain farm with his wife, Anita, daughter, Amanda, and mother, Joan, in Illinois. “I’m honored to continue serving America’s corn farmers with NCGA,” says Hartman. “I look forward to working with my fellow officers as we tackle issues that are critically important to corn growers and rural America.” Hartman currently chairs the NCGA Finance Committee. Hartman was honored by Prairie Farmer magazine with a Master Farmer Award in 2021 for his exceptional ag production skills and commitment to family and service. On October 1, Tom Haag&nbsp; of Minnesota becomes chairman, and the current first vice president, Harold Wolle of Minnesota, becomes NCGA president. In October 2024, Wolle becomes chairman, and Hartman becomes the organization’s President.- NAFB

NCGA elects new leadership

On Wednesday night, the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year contract. 

The agreement covers all of the West Coast ports and must still be ratified by both sides. 

“We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” says MPA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. 

“We’re also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says this is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. 

“This agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports and is essential for our industry,” Halstrom says. “We thank both sides for their hard work.”

On Wednesday night, the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement covers all of the West Coast ports and must still be ratified by both sides. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” says MPA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. “We’re also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says this is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. “This agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports and is essential for our industry,” Halstrom says. “We thank both sides for their hard work.”- NAFB

Tentative labor agreement at West Coast ports

Kansas Senator Roger Marshall will introduce a bill designed to address California’s Prop 12, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. 

The Hagstrom Report says Marshall’s bill would stop states from enacting laws that affect agricultural production in other states. 

The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act will preserve the right of states and local governments to regulate agriculture within their jurisdictions free from the interference of other jurisdictions. 

“U.S. agriculture currently lacks access to new markets because of non-tariff trade barriers overseas,” Marshall says. “The last thing we need is a big state like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states with regulations that will restrict our ability to trade among the states.” 

Bill co-sponsor John Cornyn of Texas says California shouldn’t be able to tell ranchers in his state how to do their jobs. &nbsp;Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson plans to introduce a companion measure at a later date.

Kansas Senator Roger Marshall will introduce a bill designed to address California’s Prop 12, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. The Hagstrom Report says Marshall’s bill would stop states from enacting laws that affect agricultural production in other states. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act will preserve the right of states and local governments to regulate agriculture within their jurisdictions free from the interference of other jurisdictions. “U.S. agriculture currently lacks access to new markets because of non-tariff trade barriers overseas,” Marshall says. “The last thing we need is a big state like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states with regulations that will restrict our ability to trade among the states.” Bill co-sponsor John Cornyn of Texas says California shouldn’t be able to tell ranchers in his state how to do their jobs. &nbsp;Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson plans to introduce a companion measure at a later date.- NAFB

Senate bill will address Prop 12

The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with CLAAS of America regarding the right to repair. 

This brings the number of signed MOUs with ag manufacturers to five. 

Combined, the agreements cover about three-quarters of the agricultural machinery sold every year in the United States. 

“The MOU with CLAAS demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring farmers have access to the tools they need to keep their farms running and America’s families fed,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. 

“Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever, and they asked us to find a private-sector solution on the right to repair.” 

Eric Raby, senior VP for the Americas with CLAAS says, “We’re providing the promised solutions for our customers’ businesses, as their success and ours go hand in hand.” The agreement means farmers and independent repair shops can now access everything needed to self-repair their machines.

The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with CLAAS of America regarding the right to repair. This brings the number of signed MOUs with ag manufacturers to five. Combined, the agreements cover about three-quarters of the agricultural machinery sold every year in the United States. “The MOU with CLAAS demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring farmers have access to the tools they need to keep their farms running and America’s families fed,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever, and they asked us to find a private-sector solution on the right to repair.” Eric Raby, senior VP for the Americas with CLAAS says, “We’re providing the promised solutions for our customers’ businesses, as their success and ours go hand in hand.” The agreement means farmers and independent repair shops can now access everything needed to self-repair their machines.- NAFB

Farm Bureau continues advancing Farmers’ Right to Repair

USDA is making $714 million dollars in grants and loans available to connect thousands of rural residents, farmers, and business owners to reliable high-speed internet. 

“High-speed internet is a key to prosperity for people who live and work in rural communities,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. 

“With this funding, we can ensure that rural communities have the internet connectivity needed to continue expanding the rural economy to make sure it’s a place of opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.” 

The announcement includes $714 million available for investments in 19 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and several others. USDA continues connecting more and more people to high-speed internet in this fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. 

The department has invested in a total of 142 ReConnect projects that will bring high-speed internet access to 314,000 rural Americans. More information on rural investment resources is available at rd.usda.gov.

USDA is making $714 million dollars in grants and loans available to connect thousands of rural residents, farmers, and business owners to reliable high-speed internet. “High-speed internet is a key to prosperity for people who live and work in rural communities,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “With this funding, we can ensure that rural communities have the internet connectivity needed to continue expanding the rural economy to make sure it’s a place of opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.” The announcement includes $714 million available for investments in 19 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and several others. USDA continues connecting more and more people to high-speed internet in this fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. The department has invested in a total of 142 ReConnect projects that will bring high-speed internet access to 314,000 rural Americans. More information on rural investment resources is available at rd.usda.gov.- NAFB

Over $700 million available to expand rural internet access

Agricultural exporters are paying close attention to contract negotiations at the nation’s West Coast ports. 

The Pacific Maritime Association is accusing workers of deliberately slowing down operations. 

The union says that’s not happening. The association says terminal operations at the Port of Seattle halted over the weekend. 

Capital Press says International Longshore and Warehouse Union President Willie Adams points out that the West Coast ports are open while negotiations continue. 

Over 22,000 workers at 29 ports on the West Coast are working without a contract and have done so since July 1, 2022, and &nbsp;negotiations have lasted 13 months. 

During the last lengthy negotiations as recently as 2015, farm goods were delayed in getting shipped out. “We aren’t hearing about delays yet,” says Washington Potato Commission director of government affairs Matt Harris. 

“That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it would potentially disrupt the export growth that we’re trying to achieve.”

Agricultural exporters are paying close attention to contract negotiations at the nation’s West Coast ports. The Pacific Maritime Association is accusing workers of deliberately slowing down operations. The union says that’s not happening. The association says terminal operations at the Port of Seattle halted over the weekend. Capital Press says International Longshore and Warehouse Union President Willie Adams points out that the West Coast ports are open while negotiations continue. Over 22,000 workers at 29 ports on the West Coast are working without a contract and have done so since July 1, 2022, and &nbsp;negotiations have lasted 13 months. During the last lengthy negotiations as recently as 2015, farm goods were delayed in getting shipped out. “We aren’t hearing about delays yet,” says Washington Potato Commission director of government affairs Matt Harris. “That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it would potentially disrupt the export growth that we’re trying to achieve.”- NAFB

Concerns remain at West Coast ports

The Economic Research Service issued its June Oil Crops Outlook that predicted higher soybean ending stocks for the month. 

A higher carryover raised the 2023-2024 U.S. soybean ending stocks forecast by 15 million bushels to 350 million bushels. 

The increase in expected carryover stocks is due to a reduced 2022-2023 soybean export forecast from 2.01 billion bushels to two billion bushels on strong foreign competition. 

Despite an unchanged soybean crush volume in June, the higher extraction rates increased U.S. soybean meal supply. With higher supply and lower domestic demand, soybean meal exports for the 2022-2023 marketing year increased this month by 0.2 million short tons to 14 million short tons. 

The Economic Research Service issued its June Oil Crops Outlook that predicted higher soybean ending stocks for the month. A higher carryover raised the 2023-2024 U.S. soybean ending stocks forecast by 15 million bushels to 350 million bushels. The increase in expected carryover stocks is due to a reduced 2022-2023 soybean export forecast from 2.01 billion bushels to two billion bushels on strong foreign competition. Despite an unchanged soybean crush volume in June, the higher extraction rates increased U.S. soybean meal supply. With higher supply and lower domestic demand, soybean meal exports for the 2022-2023 marketing year increased this month by 0.2 million short tons to 14 million short tons. The 2023-2024 global soybean ending stocks are estimated higher this month at 123.3 million metric tons on increased carryover from 2022-2023 and reduced crush in Argentina. Reduced soybean meal supplies in Argentina are partially offset by Brazil’s higher soybean meal exports.&nbsp;- NAFB