New data released Tuesday from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the number of U.S. farms continues to decline slowly. 

After peaking at 6.8 million farms in 1935, the number of U.S. farms and ranches fell sharply through the early 1970s. 

Rapidly falling farm numbers in the mid-20th century reflected the growing productivity of agriculture and increased nonfarm employment opportunities. 

Since then, the number of U.S. farms has continued to decline, but much more slowly. In 2021, there were 2.01 million U.S. farms, down from 2.20 million in 2007. With 895 million acres of farmland nationwide in 2021, the average farm size was 445 acres, only slightly greater than the 440 acres recorded in the early 1970s. 

Meanwhile, technological developments in agriculture have influenced changes in the farm sector. Innovations have enabled continuing output growth without adding much to inputs. As a result, total farm output nearly tripled between 1948 and 2019.

New data released Tuesday from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the number of U.S. farms continues to decline slowly. After peaking at 6.8 million farms in 1935, the number of U.S. farms and ranches fell sharply through the early 1970s. Rapidly falling farm numbers in the mid-20th century reflected the growing productivity of agriculture and increased nonfarm employment opportunities. Since then, the number of U.S. farms has continued to decline, but much more slowly. In 2021, there were 2.01 million U.S. farms, down from 2.20 million in 2007. With 895 million acres of farmland nationwide in 2021, the average farm size was 445 acres, only slightly greater than the 440 acres recorded in the early 1970s. Meanwhile, technological developments in agriculture have influenced changes in the farm sector. Innovations have enabled continuing output growth without adding much to inputs. As a result, total farm output nearly tripled between 1948 and 2019.

Number of U.S. farms continues slow decline

Tuesday is officially the first day of summer, and it will feel like it for many across the region.

Highs in northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas Tuesday are expected to be in the upper 90s with indices up to 105 possible.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brent Pesel from the Pleasant Hill Office says a front will move through later Tuesday evening, which could trigger some strong thunderstorms.

"There's a marginal risk for severe weather around this evening," Pesel told St. Joseph Post. "Just with how hot and humid it is, that makes the atmosphere really unstable. We have a front moving into the area this evening which might trigger some thunderstorms."

Pesel says the rain chances will persist through the night.

"As we get toward sunset and continuing through the overnight hours," Pesel said. "We don't have high expectations for severe weather, but it certainly isn't zero."

That front will bring with it highs in the 80s for Wednesday and Thursday before temperatures rise back into the mid 90s by Friday and Saturday, with heat indices this weekend ranging from 100-107.

Relief is on the way next week as well, Pesel says, with highs early next week starting off in the low-to-mid 80s.

"Middle of this week, as the front rolls through, we're going to get a little bit of a break from these really hot temperatures," Pesel said. "The heat builds back up Friday into Saturday before another front looks to roll through and get us just a little bit cooler here into next week."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTuesday is officially the first day of summer, and it will feel like it for many across the region.Highs in northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas Tuesday are expected to be in the upper 90s with indices up to 105 possible.National Weather Service meteorologist Brent Pesel from the Pleasant Hill Office says a front will move through later Tuesday evening, which could trigger some strong thunderstorms."There's a marginal risk for severe weather around this evening," Pesel told St. Joseph Post. "Just with how hot and humid it is, that makes the atmosphere really unstable. We have a front moving into the area this evening which might trigger some thunderstorms."Pesel says the rain chances will persist through the night."As we get toward sunset and continuing through the overnight hours," Pesel said. "We don't have high expectations for severe weather, but it certainly isn't zero."That front will bring with it highs in the 80s for Wednesday and Thursday before temperatures rise back into the mid 90s by Friday and Saturday, with heat indices this weekend ranging from 100-107.Relief is on the way next week as well, Pesel says, with highs early next week starting off in the low-to-mid 80s."Middle of this week, as the front rolls through, we're going to get a little bit of a break from these really hot temperatures," Pesel said. "The heat builds back up Friday into Saturday before another front looks to roll through and get us just a little bit cooler here into next week."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

First day of summer brings hot temps, rain chances to northwest Missouri

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed comments on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s controversial greenhouse gas disclosure rule. 

The rule would require publicly-traded companies to disclose their direct, energy-electricity consumption, and supply chain emissions, creating a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to publicly-traded processors, restaurants, and retailers. 

“With cattle producers facing record inflation, rising input costs, and labor shortages, another bureaucratic rule is a burden we cannot afford,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein. 

“Policymakers should be focused on lowering costs and solving real problems facing agriculture, not creating more complex rules that require a team of lawyers to understand.” While the proposal is aimed at public companies, it would place a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to public entities.

 The federal government has also acknowledged that accurately calculating emissions on the farm or ranch level is impossible. EPA and USDA metrics are already calculated and should satisfy federal regulators.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed comments on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s controversial greenhouse gas disclosure rule. The rule would require publicly-traded companies to disclose their direct, energy-electricity consumption, and supply chain emissions, creating a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to publicly-traded processors, restaurants, and retailers. “With cattle producers facing record inflation, rising input costs, and labor shortages, another bureaucratic rule is a burden we cannot afford,” says NCBA President Don Schiefelbein. “Policymakers should be focused on lowering costs and solving real problems facing agriculture, not creating more complex rules that require a team of lawyers to understand.” While the proposal is aimed at public companies, it would place a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to public entities. The federal government has also acknowledged that accurately calculating emissions on the farm or ranch level is impossible. EPA and USDA metrics are already calculated and should satisfy federal regulators.

Cattle industry fighting SEC Climate Rule

The USDA and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy signed a Memorandum of Understanding to continue working toward the dairy industry’s 2050 environmental stewardship goals. 

The MOU also addresses growing consumer demand for food produced in a way that’s good for the planet. 

The MOU extends and builds upon a pact originally signed in 2008. 

“In renewing this agreement with the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, USDA is recommitting to our vital work with dairy farmers to reduce methane emissions and improve the sustainability of their operations,” says USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewell Bronaugh. 

“We’ve seen tremendous interest in the production of climate-smart commodities, and the dairy industry is on the leading edge of that effort. 

The MOU builds on that effort” The Innovation Center’s 2050 environmental stewardship goals include achieving GHG neutrality, optimizing water use while maximizing recycling, and improving water quality by optimizing utilization of manure and nutrients.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655821739727.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the National Corn Grower's Association" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the National Corn Grower's Association</figcaption>
 </figure>The USDA and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy signed a Memorandum of Understanding to continue working toward the dairy industry’s 2050 environmental stewardship goals. The MOU also addresses growing consumer demand for food produced in a way that’s good for the planet. The MOU extends and builds upon a pact originally signed in 2008. “In renewing this agreement with the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, USDA is recommitting to our vital work with dairy farmers to reduce methane emissions and improve the sustainability of their operations,” says USDA Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewell Bronaugh. “We’ve seen tremendous interest in the production of climate-smart commodities, and the dairy industry is on the leading edge of that effort. The MOU builds on that effort” The Innovation Center’s 2050 environmental stewardship goals include achieving GHG neutrality, optimizing water use while maximizing recycling, and improving water quality by optimizing utilization of manure and nutrients.

U.S. Dairy industry signs MOU to continue sustainability commitment

The USDA says the second funding pool through the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities opportunity received over 600 applications from more than 400 groups. 

While USDA is calculating the final numbers, the overall interest in the opportunity already exceeds more than $18 billion. 

“The results of the second funding pool clearly demonstrate the strong demand in the U.S. agriculture and forestry industry for solutions that expand markets for American producers and forest landowners, particularly those that are small or historically underserved,” says USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie. 

“The second round of funding received significantly more applications than the first, and we’re looking forward to going through the large pool of applications.” 

The second funding pool was designed to support proposals between $250,000 and $5 million that emphasize the enrollment of small and-or underserved producers. The proposals could also include monitoring, reporting, and verifying activities developed at minority-serving institutions. &nbsp;

The USDA says the second funding pool through the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities opportunity received over 600 applications from more than 400 groups. While USDA is calculating the final numbers, the overall interest in the opportunity already exceeds more than $18 billion. “The results of the second funding pool clearly demonstrate the strong demand in the U.S. agriculture and forestry industry for solutions that expand markets for American producers and forest landowners, particularly those that are small or historically underserved,” says USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie. “The second round of funding received significantly more applications than the first, and we’re looking forward to going through the large pool of applications.” The second funding pool was designed to support proposals between $250,000 and $5 million that emphasize the enrollment of small and-or underserved producers. The proposals could also include monitoring, reporting, and verifying activities developed at minority-serving institutions. &nbsp;

USDA receives overwhelming interest in Climate-Smart Commodities

Ag groups positively reacted to President Biden signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, which will address the supply chain and shipping port issues hampering U.S. exports. 

“Exports add significantly to the bottom line of each producer,” says National Pork Producers Council President-Elect Scott Hayes. 

“More assurances that exports get safely to their destination is a big win for agriculture.” 

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall personally spoke to President Biden last week about the legislation. “Addressing congestion at our ports and creating greater accountability for shipping companies is a positive step,” Duvall says. The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council both applauded the bill getting signed into law. 

“We’re asking the Federal Maritime Commission to implement these rules quickly and begin to conduct the new oversight to end the unfair practices that have impeded American dairy products from efficiently getting to their overseas customers,” says NMPF President Jim Mulhern.

Ag groups positively reacted to President Biden signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, which will address the supply chain and shipping port issues hampering U.S. exports. “Exports add significantly to the bottom line of each producer,” says National Pork Producers Council President-Elect Scott Hayes. “More assurances that exports get safely to their destination is a big win for agriculture.” American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall personally spoke to President Biden last week about the legislation. “Addressing congestion at our ports and creating greater accountability for shipping companies is a positive step,” Duvall says. The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council both applauded the bill getting signed into law. “We’re asking the Federal Maritime Commission to implement these rules quickly and begin to conduct the new oversight to end the unfair practices that have impeded American dairy products from efficiently getting to their overseas customers,” says NMPF President Jim Mulhern.

Ag groups support the Ocean Shipping Reform Act

American farmers are again at odds with the Environmental Protection Agency over the Endangered Species Act. 

The final EPA biological evaluations of neonicotinoids and their impacts on endangered species are overly conservative and don’t use all available data. 

Grower groups like the American Soybean Association and the American Farm Bureau Federation are concerned the evaluations drastically overstate the impact of the pesticides on endangered species and their habitats. 

The groups say the evaluations for several neonicotinoid pesticides don’t incorporate scientific and commercial data that could have provided a more realistic picture of the potential impacts of the chemistries on different species. 

The groups pointed out the shortcomings during the public comment period, but EPA doubled down on the final evaluations.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Growers have, time-and-again, pointed EPA to real-world data to improve their endangered species assessments,” says American Soybean Association President Brad Doyle. “The agency has again chosen to disregard the data.”

American farmers are again at odds with the Environmental Protection Agency over the Endangered Species Act. The final EPA biological evaluations of neonicotinoids and their impacts on endangered species are overly conservative and don’t use all available data. Grower groups like the American Soybean Association and the American Farm Bureau Federation are concerned the evaluations drastically overstate the impact of the pesticides on endangered species and their habitats. The groups say the evaluations for several neonicotinoid pesticides don’t incorporate scientific and commercial data that could have provided a more realistic picture of the potential impacts of the chemistries on different species. The groups pointed out the shortcomings during the public comment period, but EPA doubled down on the final evaluations.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Growers have, time-and-again, pointed EPA to real-world data to improve their endangered species assessments,” says American Soybean Association President Brad Doyle. “The agency has again chosen to disregard the data.”

Growers frustrated with EPA regarding pesticide impacts

Record-level red meat exports of 18.7 billion dollars in 2021 had a major impact on the corn and soybean industries. 

An independent study by the Juday Group quantified the returns that red meat exports brought to corn and soybean producers in 2021 nationally and at state levels. 

Key findings from the 2021 export data showed that beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage, equating to 2.94 billion dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pork exports accounted for 99.3 million bushels of soybean usage nationwide or the equivalent of 2.36 million metric tons of soybean meal worth 1.3 billion dollars. 

Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.4 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to 716 million dollars. “Beef and pork exports drive value directly back to the farm, and this study helps confirm the return on investment for all corn and soybean producers,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation Chair-elect and Iowa producer Dean Meyer.

Record-level red meat exports of 18.7 billion dollars in 2021 had a major impact on the corn and soybean industries. An independent study by the Juday Group quantified the returns that red meat exports brought to corn and soybean producers in 2021 nationally and at state levels. Key findings from the 2021 export data showed that beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage, equating to 2.94 billion dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pork exports accounted for 99.3 million bushels of soybean usage nationwide or the equivalent of 2.36 million metric tons of soybean meal worth 1.3 billion dollars. Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.4 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to 716 million dollars. “Beef and pork exports drive value directly back to the farm, and this study helps confirm the return on investment for all corn and soybean producers,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation Chair-elect and Iowa producer Dean Meyer.

Red meat exports add value to corn and soybean producers

House Ag Committee Ranking Member Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania introduced a bill this week that Fox News says would “strike back” at several of the administration’s agricultural policies. 

It would also strike down a recently-proposed rule from the Securities and Exchange Commission that could potentially harm small farms. 

Thompson is introducing the bill with more than 20 cosponsors during a time when America is dealing with significant inflation, especially in food prices. 

The bill has several provisions that Thompson says would help in many ways, including rescinding the SEC Scope Three reporting rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rule requires public companies to report information like it’s carbon emissions but also from sources up and down their supply chains. 

Thompson’s bill also includes several provisions relating to fertilizer, including reinstating the National Environmental Policy Act of 2020, which would streamline mineral extraction for fertilizer production. The bill also reinstates the Trump-era Waters of the U.S. rule.

House Ag Committee Ranking Member Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania introduced a bill this week that Fox News says would “strike back” at several of the administration’s agricultural policies. It would also strike down a recently-proposed rule from the Securities and Exchange Commission that could potentially harm small farms. Thompson is introducing the bill with more than 20 cosponsors during a time when America is dealing with significant inflation, especially in food prices. The bill has several provisions that Thompson says would help in many ways, including rescinding the SEC Scope Three reporting rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rule requires public companies to report information like it’s carbon emissions but also from sources up and down their supply chains. Thompson’s bill also includes several provisions relating to fertilizer, including reinstating the National Environmental Policy Act of 2020, which would streamline mineral extraction for fertilizer production. The bill also reinstates the Trump-era Waters of the U.S. rule.

House GOP bill targets Biden ag policies

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association expressed strong disappointment after the House of Representatives passed the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act. 

Their disappointment is because the bill incorporates the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act. 

NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says Congress is focused on political posturing through the Special Investigator Bill. 

NCBA says the investigator position will duplicate the work already being done by other federal agencies. House Ag Chair David Scott says the bill will ensure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, increase options at the pump, and provide support to America’s ag sector and food supply chain. 

The bill will permanently lift barriers to year-round sales of E15, something Growth Energy says would enable more access to a lower-cost, lower-emission option for hardworking families. “We’ve recently seen E15 deliver savings approaching 60 cents per gallon in some parts of the country,” says CEO Emily Skor.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association expressed strong disappointment after the House of Representatives passed the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act. Their disappointment is because the bill incorporates the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act. NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says Congress is focused on political posturing through the Special Investigator Bill. NCBA says the investigator position will duplicate the work already being done by other federal agencies. House Ag Chair David Scott says the bill will ensure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, increase options at the pump, and provide support to America’s ag sector and food supply chain. The bill will permanently lift barriers to year-round sales of E15, something Growth Energy says would enable more access to a lower-cost, lower-emission option for hardworking families. “We’ve recently seen E15 deliver savings approaching 60 cents per gallon in some parts of the country,” says CEO Emily Skor.

Mixed reaction to House passage of Special Investigator Bill

WASHINGTON— U.S. Representative Tracey Mann and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;led several of their colleagues in sending a letter&nbsp;to the U.S. Department of Commerce, urging it to consider the record-high fertilizer cost and suspend the duties it placed on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer imports from Trinidad and Tobago.

<a href="https://mann.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/mann.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/FINAL_ITC_2_RAIMONDO.pdf">CLICK here to read</a> the letter

"We're seeing the price of fertilizer, which is many times based on fossil fuel increase 300 to 400%," Mann said this week.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) heard final arguments on Thursday in the antidumping duty investigation of UAN fertilizers from Trinidad and Tobago.

"When you quadruple the price of fertilizer and other inputs, it's all about the margin and what you actually take home," Mann said. "We're putting our ag producers, the best in the world, in a really bad spot right now."

<a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/opendata/fertilizer-prices-expected-remain-higher-longer">The World Bank posted on its blog last month</a>&nbsp;that fertilizers are now at their least affordable levels since the 2008 global food crisis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627660813904.png" alt="Kansas First District congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Kansas First District congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— U.S. Representative Tracey Mann and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;led several of their colleagues in sending a letter&nbsp;to the U.S. Department of Commerce, urging it to consider the record-high fertilizer cost and suspend the duties it placed on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer imports from Trinidad and Tobago.<a href="https://mann.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/mann.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/FINAL_ITC_2_RAIMONDO.pdf">CLICK here to read</a> the letter"We're seeing the price of fertilizer, which is many times based on fossil fuel increase 300 to 400%," Mann said this week.The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) heard final arguments on Thursday in the antidumping duty investigation of UAN fertilizers from Trinidad and Tobago."When you quadruple the price of fertilizer and other inputs, it's all about the margin and what you actually take home," Mann said. "We're putting our ag producers, the best in the world, in a really bad spot right now."<a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/opendata/fertilizer-prices-expected-remain-higher-longer">The World Bank posted on its blog last month</a>&nbsp;that fertilizers are now at their least affordable levels since the 2008 global food crisis.

Mann, Moran respond to record high cost of fertilizer

There’s no question a highly-contagious bird flu outbreak is reducing the size of the U.S. chicken flock and driving up the cost of eggs nationwide. 

Some social media claims say USDA predicts eggs will be $12 per dozen by this fall. 

Jennifer Smits, director of communications for the USDA’s Economic Research Service, says that USDA isn’t predicting eggs will be $12 per dozen later this year. 

Smith points out in USA Today that while the ERS does predict and follow agriculture and food trends, they don’t forecast specific retail egg prices. 

As of June 10, Federal Reserve economic data says the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $2.86, and prices are predicted to dip to $1.70 per dozen in the fourth quarter of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inconsistent supply of eggs is driving up the cost this year, while overall food prices are 9.4 percent higher than 2021.

There’s no question a highly-contagious bird flu outbreak is reducing the size of the U.S. chicken flock and driving up the cost of eggs nationwide. Some social media claims say USDA predicts eggs will be $12 per dozen by this fall. Jennifer Smits, director of communications for the USDA’s Economic Research Service, says that USDA isn’t predicting eggs will be $12 per dozen later this year. Smith points out in USA Today that while the ERS does predict and follow agriculture and food trends, they don’t forecast specific retail egg prices. As of June 10, Federal Reserve economic data says the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $2.86, and prices are predicted to dip to $1.70 per dozen in the fourth quarter of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inconsistent supply of eggs is driving up the cost this year, while overall food prices are 9.4 percent higher than 2021.

Eggs costing $12 per dozen is “unrealistic”

In a letter to Congress Wednesday, National Farmers Union expressed support for the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act and urged Members to support the bill. 

The legislation, NFU says, will provide fairness to farmers, lower prices for consumers, and fight back against decades of consolidation in agriculture. 

House lawmakers are considering the legislative package Thursday. 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “Farmers Union members are in strong support of bolstering USDA’s ability to investigate consolidation in the livestock industry.” The legislation would create a special investigator’s office at the Department of Agriculture to explore the issue. 

However, that issue has House Republicans and Democrats divided on the legislation. National Farmers Union also supports the provisions to expand processing capacity that will offer ranchers more opportunities to get their products to their communities. Another provision of the bill would make year-round E-15 sales permanent, also supported by NFU.

In a letter to Congress Wednesday, National Farmers Union expressed support for the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act and urged Members to support the bill. The legislation, NFU says, will provide fairness to farmers, lower prices for consumers, and fight back against decades of consolidation in agriculture. House lawmakers are considering the legislative package Thursday. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “Farmers Union members are in strong support of bolstering USDA’s ability to investigate consolidation in the livestock industry.” The legislation would create a special investigator’s office at the Department of Agriculture to explore the issue. However, that issue has House Republicans and Democrats divided on the legislation. National Farmers Union also supports the provisions to expand processing capacity that will offer ranchers more opportunities to get their products to their communities. Another provision of the bill would make year-round E-15 sales permanent, also supported by NFU.

Farmers Union urges Congressional support Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act

Representatives from 37 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations will join Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh for an agribusiness trade mission to London, June 22-24. 

Participants will engage directly with foreign buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from the Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. 

Bronaugh says, “I’m very excited to lead a delegation to the United Kingdom, one of our top trading partners,” adding, “The United Kingdom presents strong marketing opportunities for many U.S. consumer-oriented products.” 

U.S. agricultural exports to the United Kingdom totaled $1.9 billion in 2021. In addition to representatives from the following companies and organizations, Bronaugh will be joined by officials from the Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin departments of agriculture. 

The USDA-sponsored trade mission to the U.K. is one of four international trade missions Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced in March.

Representatives from 37 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations will join Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh for an agribusiness trade mission to London, June 22-24. Participants will engage directly with foreign buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from the Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. Bronaugh says, “I’m very excited to lead a delegation to the United Kingdom, one of our top trading partners,” adding, “The United Kingdom presents strong marketing opportunities for many U.S. consumer-oriented products.” U.S. agricultural exports to the United Kingdom totaled $1.9 billion in 2021. In addition to representatives from the following companies and organizations, Bronaugh will be joined by officials from the Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin departments of agriculture. The USDA-sponsored trade mission to the U.K. is one of four international trade missions Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced in March.

Bronaugh to lead United Kingdom trade mission

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced new efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of African swine fever in the United States. 

Through a campaign called Protect Our Pigs, APHIS will support pork producers, veterinarians, and pig owners with information and resources to help safeguard the swine population and the pork industry. 

APHIS is deploying a variety of outreach efforts to support these critical stakeholders. 

The new Protect Our Pigs page on the APHIS website will house materials such as downloadable fact sheets and posters, instructional videos, shareable social media graphics, a new interactive biosecurity guide, and offer the latest disease updates. 

Dr. Jack Shere, Associate Administrator at APHIS, says, “USDA is working every day to stop this disease from breaching our borders and the Protect Our Pigs campaign is just one of many ways we are doing that.” African swine fever is estimated to cost the U.S. $50 billion over ten years, if detected.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced new efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of African swine fever in the United States. Through a campaign called Protect Our Pigs, APHIS will support pork producers, veterinarians, and pig owners with information and resources to help safeguard the swine population and the pork industry. APHIS is deploying a variety of outreach efforts to support these critical stakeholders. The new Protect Our Pigs page on the APHIS website will house materials such as downloadable fact sheets and posters, instructional videos, shareable social media graphics, a new interactive biosecurity guide, and offer the latest disease updates. Dr. Jack Shere, Associate Administrator at APHIS, says, “USDA is working every day to stop this disease from breaching our borders and the Protect Our Pigs campaign is just one of many ways we are doing that.” African swine fever is estimated to cost the U.S. $50 billion over ten years, if detected.

APHIS announces new resources aimed at preventing ASF spread

The House of Representatives Monday sent the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to President Biden for signature. 

Agriculture groups responded positively, heralding the legislation that improves the oversight of ocean shipping. 

The bill will address many maritime disruptions obstructing the import and export of U.S. products at American ports over the past several years. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “I was pleased to team up with President Biden to urge passage and look forward to him quickly signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.” 

U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom welcomed the passage, saying, “This legislation takes important steps forward in improving the shipping services available to U.S. exporters.” 

American Feed Industry Association CEO Constance Cullman adds, “passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act signals a course correction that will enable our industry to continue providing these essential goods to the global marketplace in a timely, cost-efficient way.”

The House of Representatives Monday sent the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to President Biden for signature. Agriculture groups responded positively, heralding the legislation that improves the oversight of ocean shipping. The bill will address many maritime disruptions obstructing the import and export of U.S. products at American ports over the past several years. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “I was pleased to team up with President Biden to urge passage and look forward to him quickly signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom welcomed the passage, saying, “This legislation takes important steps forward in improving the shipping services available to U.S. exporters.” American Feed Industry Association CEO Constance Cullman adds, “passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act signals a course correction that will enable our industry to continue providing these essential goods to the global marketplace in a timely, cost-efficient way.”

Farm groups welcome passage of Ocean Shipping Reform Act

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the comment deadline regarding its “Access to Fertilizer: Competition and Supply Chain Concerns” Federal Register notice. 

Published in the Federal Register in March, the previous deadlines for comments were May 16, and June 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USDA extended the comment deadline another month to July 15, 2022. 

Andy Green, USDA's Senior Advisor for Fair and Competitive Markets, says the new deadline allows "commenters to provide additional feedback regarding the role of capacity expansion and related strategies to directly enhance competition in the fertilizer market." 

Through the effort, USDA is seeking information on what obstacles exist to financing and developing new fertilizer capacity, expanding fertilizer manufacturing, and what other threats the fertilizer sector faces. 

In March, USDA announced plans for a $250 million investment in grants to support additional fertilizer production for farmers to address rising costs and spur competition. Fertilizer prices have more than doubled since last year.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the comment deadline regarding its “Access to Fertilizer: Competition and Supply Chain Concerns” Federal Register notice. Published in the Federal Register in March, the previous deadlines for comments were May 16, and June 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA extended the comment deadline another month to July 15, 2022. Andy Green, USDA's Senior Advisor for Fair and Competitive Markets, says the new deadline allows "commenters to provide additional feedback regarding the role of capacity expansion and related strategies to directly enhance competition in the fertilizer market." Through the effort, USDA is seeking information on what obstacles exist to financing and developing new fertilizer capacity, expanding fertilizer manufacturing, and what other threats the fertilizer sector faces. In March, USDA announced plans for a $250 million investment in grants to support additional fertilizer production for farmers to address rising costs and spur competition. Fertilizer prices have more than doubled since last year.

USDA extends comment period on fertilizer supply chain issues

The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee recommended Representative Sharice Davids to join the House Agriculture Committee this week. 

The Kansas Democrat says, “I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill.” 

Kansas Farm Bureau President Rich Felts says, “I know Representative Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture” for the remainder of the current session of Congress. 

House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott says, “I am pleased to welcome her voice to our Committee.” Davids continues to serve as Vice-Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access. 

The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655302901185.jpeg" alt="Sharice Davids /Government photo" />
 <figcaption>Sharice Davids /Government photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee recommended Representative Sharice Davids to join the House Agriculture Committee this week. The Kansas Democrat says, “I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill.” Kansas Farm Bureau President Rich Felts says, “I know Representative Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture” for the remainder of the current session of Congress. House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott says, “I am pleased to welcome her voice to our Committee.” Davids continues to serve as Vice-Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access. The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.

Rep. Sharice Davids assigned to House Ag Committee

The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12. 

The state law seeks to ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the pork was raised on farms outside of California. 

AFBF and NPPC argue Proposition 12 violates the constitution’s Commerce Clause, which restricts states from regulating commerce outside their borders. 

The brief states Proposition 12 “will require massive and costly changes across the entire $26-billion-a-year industry. And it inescapably projects California’s policy choices into every other State, a number of which expressly permit their farmers to house sows in ways inconsistent with Proposition 12.” 

NPPC and AFBF assert Proposition 12 unconstitutionally regulates commerce outside of California, governs activity outside of California’s borders and beyond its police powers, and imposes substantial burdens on out-of-state farmers and their customers.

The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12. The state law seeks to ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the pork was raised on farms outside of California. AFBF and NPPC argue Proposition 12 violates the constitution’s Commerce Clause, which restricts states from regulating commerce outside their borders. The brief states Proposition 12 “will require massive and costly changes across the entire $26-billion-a-year industry. And it inescapably projects California’s policy choices into every other State, a number of which expressly permit their farmers to house sows in ways inconsistent with Proposition 12.” NPPC and AFBF assert Proposition 12 unconstitutionally regulates commerce outside of California, governs activity outside of California’s borders and beyond its police powers, and imposes substantial burdens on out-of-state farmers and their customers.

AFBF and NPPC tell Supreme Court Proposition 12 is unconstitutional

Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen welcomed news Monday that Chevron finalized its acquisition of Renewable Energy Group, a longtime Clean Fuels Alliance America member. 

As the acquisition is finalized, Chad Stone of Renewable Energy Group will continue to lead the Clean Fuels Governing Board as chair. 

Rehagen says, “This is a meaningful acquisition for our industry and for Clean Fuels for many reasons.” 

The company was one of the first to build a biodiesel plant in the United States. With 11 biorefineries in the U.S. and Europe and more than half a billion gallons of production of biodiesel and renewable diesel, Renewable Energy Group is also one of Clean Fuels’ largest members in terms of fuel production. 

California-based Chevron has steadily grown its clean fuels business, actively marketing its Renewable Diesel Blend at the pump in California. Renewable Energy Group will remain headquartered in Ames, Iowa, and will focus on growing Chevron's portfolio of lower-carbon fuels.

Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen welcomed news Monday that Chevron finalized its acquisition of Renewable Energy Group, a longtime Clean Fuels Alliance America member. As the acquisition is finalized, Chad Stone of Renewable Energy Group will continue to lead the Clean Fuels Governing Board as chair. Rehagen says, “This is a meaningful acquisition for our industry and for Clean Fuels for many reasons.” The company was one of the first to build a biodiesel plant in the United States. With 11 biorefineries in the U.S. and Europe and more than half a billion gallons of production of biodiesel and renewable diesel, Renewable Energy Group is also one of Clean Fuels’ largest members in terms of fuel production. California-based Chevron has steadily grown its clean fuels business, actively marketing its Renewable Diesel Blend at the pump in California. Renewable Energy Group will remain headquartered in Ames, Iowa, and will focus on growing Chevron's portfolio of lower-carbon fuels.

Clean Fuels applauds Chevron on completion acquiring Renewable Energy Group

Consumers in the United States returned to pre-pandemic trends, purchasing more food away from home than food purchases intended for consumption at home. 

USDA’s Economic Research Service released the data Monday, which shows food away from home spending increased 21.1 percent in 2021 from the previous year. 

Food at home spending also increased, up four percent in 2021. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, real total food expenditures fell 6.6 percent from 2019. 

U.S. consumers’ food-spending patterns changed as efforts were made to limit the spread of COVID-19, which included stay-at-home orders. Food away from home spending decreased by 15.8 percent in 2020, while food at home spending increased by 3.9 percent. In 2021, real total food expenditures increased 12.2 percent from 2020. 

USDA describes food at home as food intended for off-premise consumption from retailers, and food away from home as food consumed at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias.

Consumers in the United States returned to pre-pandemic trends, purchasing more food away from home than food purchases intended for consumption at home. USDA’s Economic Research Service released the data Monday, which shows food away from home spending increased 21.1 percent in 2021 from the previous year. Food at home spending also increased, up four percent in 2021. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, real total food expenditures fell 6.6 percent from 2019. U.S. consumers’ food-spending patterns changed as efforts were made to limit the spread of COVID-19, which included stay-at-home orders. Food away from home spending decreased by 15.8 percent in 2020, while food at home spending increased by 3.9 percent. In 2021, real total food expenditures increased 12.2 percent from 2020. USDA describes food at home as food intended for off-premise consumption from retailers, and food away from home as food consumed at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias.

Consumers spend more on food away from home in 2021

Smithfield Foods says it will stop all harvest and processing operations in Vernon, California, in early 2023 due to the rising cost of doing business in the state. 

At the same time, the company will align its hog production system by reducing its sow herd in the western region. 

The company will shrink the size of its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California. 

Smithfield harvests only company-owned hogs in Vernon. “We are grateful to our team members in the Western region for their dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission,” says Smithfield Chief Operating Officer Brady Stewart. 

“We are committed to providing financial and other transition assistance to employees impacted by this difficult decision.” The transition options for employees include relocation options to other company facilities and farms and retention incentives to ensure the business stays in operation until next year.

Smithfield Foods says it will stop all harvest and processing operations in Vernon, California, in early 2023 due to the rising cost of doing business in the state. At the same time, the company will align its hog production system by reducing its sow herd in the western region. The company will shrink the size of its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California. Smithfield harvests only company-owned hogs in Vernon. “We are grateful to our team members in the Western region for their dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission,” says Smithfield Chief Operating Officer Brady Stewart. “We are committed to providing financial and other transition assistance to employees impacted by this difficult decision.” The transition options for employees include relocation options to other company facilities and farms and retention incentives to ensure the business stays in operation until next year.

Smithfield Foods closing plant in California

Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley testified last week before the California Air Resources Board. 

He spoke to the board in response to its proposed Advanced Clean Cars II Regulation. The proposal set a goal of 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. 

During his testimony, Bliley encouraged CARB to develop clear policies reflecting the reality that liquid fuels will continue to play an important role in the transportation sector for decades.

 “In the existing light-duty fleet, higher bioethanol blends like E15 and E85 can get immediately deployed to achieve immediate GHG reductions, reduce harmful air toxics, and reduce consumer costs at the pump,” says Bliley. 

“Additionally, greater use of E85 will promote even further reductions in GHG and toxic emissions, as well as lower consumer costs because it sells for nearly $2 less per gallon than gasoline.” Consumers are facing record-high gas prices at the pump.

Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley testified last week before the California Air Resources Board. He spoke to the board in response to its proposed Advanced Clean Cars II Regulation. The proposal set a goal of 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. During his testimony, Bliley encouraged CARB to develop clear policies reflecting the reality that liquid fuels will continue to play an important role in the transportation sector for decades. “In the existing light-duty fleet, higher bioethanol blends like E15 and E85 can get immediately deployed to achieve immediate GHG reductions, reduce harmful air toxics, and reduce consumer costs at the pump,” says Bliley. “Additionally, greater use of E85 will promote even further reductions in GHG and toxic emissions, as well as lower consumer costs because it sells for nearly $2 less per gallon than gasoline.” Consumers are facing record-high gas prices at the pump.

Growth Energy testifies on Advanced Clean Cars Regulation

Firestone Ag kicked off the 2022 Rock the Crop Concert Sweepstakes with Nashville-based country music artist Dillon Carmichael. The sweepstakes event is billed as a celebration of U.S. agriculture. 

Building on a successful giveaway of a private concert last year, the farm tire manufacturer and the musician are collaborating again to unite music and agriculture in honor of America’s hard-working farmers and ranchers. 

“The past couple of years have been especially challenging for agriculture workers, so we’re excited to have Dillon Carmichael back on board to join us in thanking one lucky farmer or rancher with a private concert,” says Matt Frank, Firestone marketing product manager. 

Indiana farmer Carey Garwood won the inaugural concert in 2021. This year’s winner will host that private concert with Carmichael on their farm or ranch. “I’m thrilled to continue this partnership with Firestone and to have such a unique opportunity to personally celebrate America’s farmers,” Carmichael says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655133712076.png" alt="Photo courtesy of Firestone Ag" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Firestone Ag</figcaption>
 </figure>Firestone Ag kicked off the 2022 Rock the Crop Concert Sweepstakes with Nashville-based country music artist Dillon Carmichael. The sweepstakes event is billed as a celebration of U.S. agriculture. Building on a successful giveaway of a private concert last year, the farm tire manufacturer and the musician are collaborating again to unite music and agriculture in honor of America’s hard-working farmers and ranchers. “The past couple of years have been especially challenging for agriculture workers, so we’re excited to have Dillon Carmichael back on board to join us in thanking one lucky farmer or rancher with a private concert,” says Matt Frank, Firestone marketing product manager. Indiana farmer Carey Garwood won the inaugural concert in 2021. This year’s winner will host that private concert with Carmichael on their farm or ranch. “I’m thrilled to continue this partnership with Firestone and to have such a unique opportunity to personally celebrate America’s farmers,” Carmichael says.

2022 “Rock the Crop” Concert Sweepstakes underway

Many of agriculture’s leading groups and officials are reacting positively to the expected nomination of Doug McKalip to be the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. 

McKalip has been a key agriculture policy official for three decades, and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that makes him a great choice for the post. 

The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip will be able to use his strong background in farm and trade policy and his knowledge of biotechnology to advance U.S. global trade priorities. 

American Soybean Association CEO Stephen Censky says, “Doug understands the challenges facing agriculture, and we’re glad to have his expertise added to the USTR team.” 

Brian Kuehl of Farmers for Free Trade says McKalip is “well prepared for fighting for the needs of our nation’s farm and food interests.” The National Corn Growers Association is also pleased to see this nomination in place, as is the National Milk Producers Federation.

Many of agriculture’s leading groups and officials are reacting positively to the expected nomination of Doug McKalip to be the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. McKalip has been a key agriculture policy official for three decades, and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that makes him a great choice for the post. The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip will be able to use his strong background in farm and trade policy and his knowledge of biotechnology to advance U.S. global trade priorities. American Soybean Association CEO Stephen Censky says, “Doug understands the challenges facing agriculture, and we’re glad to have his expertise added to the USTR team.” Brian Kuehl of Farmers for Free Trade says McKalip is “well prepared for fighting for the needs of our nation’s farm and food interests.” The National Corn Growers Association is also pleased to see this nomination in place, as is the National Milk Producers Federation.