The U.S. Surface Transportation Board has put more streamlined processes in place for rail rate disputes that may benefit agricultural shippers. 

The STB established a voluntary arbitration program and a new procedure for rate challenges, known as the Final Offer Rate Review. 

Wheat farmers and the grain trade rely heavily on rail to transport wheat to export terminals, but rates for hauling wheat are often higher than for other crops. 

The U.S. Wheat Associates’ Working Transportation Group is pleased that the STB recognizes rail shippers need new and innovative ways to engage railroads on rate concerns. “These rulings are a welcome sign that rail customers like wheat farmers are being heard,” says Charlie Vogel, working group chair. 

“The voluntary arbitration program and the FORR process will help give smaller shippers a greater ability to challenge rail rates.” STB Chair Martin Oberman says they wanted to make smaller rail disputes reasonable and less time-consuming.

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board has put more streamlined processes in place for rail rate disputes that may benefit agricultural shippers. The STB established a voluntary arbitration program and a new procedure for rate challenges, known as the Final Offer Rate Review. Wheat farmers and the grain trade rely heavily on rail to transport wheat to export terminals, but rates for hauling wheat are often higher than for other crops. The U.S. Wheat Associates’ Working Transportation Group is pleased that the STB recognizes rail shippers need new and innovative ways to engage railroads on rate concerns. “These rulings are a welcome sign that rail customers like wheat farmers are being heard,” says Charlie Vogel, working group chair. “The voluntary arbitration program and the FORR process will help give smaller shippers a greater ability to challenge rail rates.” STB Chair Martin Oberman says they wanted to make smaller rail disputes reasonable and less time-consuming.

Wheat industry rail shippers welcome STB rulings on rate disputes

The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council applaud U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai’s actions under USMCA regarding Canada’s dairy market. 

Tai is filing a new request for dispute settlement consultations with Canada in order to expand the scope of the second USMCA dairy dispute to include additional elements necessary to ensure Canada complies with its trade agreement obligations. 

“We thank USTR and USDA for their diligence in working to ensure that American dairy producers have the market access promised under USMCA,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. 

“Canada continues to flagrantly flout its obligations, so the U.S. government needs to be ready with retaliatory measures.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, says it’s deeply unfortunate that Canada refuses to honor the full terms of the agreement. “USMCA is a fair deal that was thoroughly negotiated and agreed to by the Canadian government,” she says.

The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council applaud U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai’s actions under USMCA regarding Canada’s dairy market. Tai is filing a new request for dispute settlement consultations with Canada in order to expand the scope of the second USMCA dairy dispute to include additional elements necessary to ensure Canada complies with its trade agreement obligations. “We thank USTR and USDA for their diligence in working to ensure that American dairy producers have the market access promised under USMCA,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “Canada continues to flagrantly flout its obligations, so the U.S. government needs to be ready with retaliatory measures.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, says it’s deeply unfortunate that Canada refuses to honor the full terms of the agreement. “USMCA is a fair deal that was thoroughly negotiated and agreed to by the Canadian government,” she says.

U.S. Dairy applauds USTR actions against Canada’s dairy practices

American egg production totaled 8.87 billion in November, down five percent from the same time last year. 

Production included 7.62 billion table eggs and 1.25 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.16 billion were broiler-type and 92.1 million were egg-type. 

The average number of layers in November totaled 375 million, down four percent from last year. 

November egg production per 100 layers was 2,369 eggs, slightly lower than last November. Total layers in the U.S. on December 1 totaled 374 million, five percent lower than last year. 

The layers consisted of 308 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 62 million layers were broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.74 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. 

Egg-type chicks hatched during November reached 46.5 million, up two percent from the previous November. Broiler-type chicks hatched during November totaled 810 million, one percent higher than in November 2021. Leading breeders placed 7.68 million broiler-type pullet chicks in November.

American egg production totaled 8.87 billion in November, down five percent from the same time last year. Production included 7.62 billion table eggs and 1.25 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.16 billion were broiler-type and 92.1 million were egg-type. The average number of layers in November totaled 375 million, down four percent from last year. November egg production per 100 layers was 2,369 eggs, slightly lower than last November. Total layers in the U.S. on December 1 totaled 374 million, five percent lower than last year. The layers consisted of 308 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 62 million layers were broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.74 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Egg-type chicks hatched during November reached 46.5 million, up two percent from the previous November. Broiler-type chicks hatched during November totaled 810 million, one percent higher than in November 2021. Leading breeders placed 7.68 million broiler-type pullet chicks in November.

U.S. egg production down five percent in November

A new study shows U.S.-grown soybeans are well suited for people looking to cook, fuel up or find other sustainable solutions. 

The United Soybean Board partnered with Purdue University to evaluate whether the increased use of soybean oil in biofuels has contributed to the rising retail prices of food products for consumers. 

One key element missing from this equation is that only one-fifth of the soybean is oil, most of the soybean is meal used as a high-quality protein in animal diets. This expanded crush for oil to meet biofuel demand creates increased availability for meal, driving down the price of animal protein products. 

Jayson Lusk of Purdue University says, “What we found, after assessing the impact of rising soybean oil demand on prices at the grocery store, was little change to the Consumer Price Index.” 

While the increased demand for biofuels pushed up retail prices for oil between 0.16 percent and 4.41 percent, retail animal product prices declined between -0.01 percent and -0.16 percent.

A new study shows U.S.-grown soybeans are well suited for people looking to cook, fuel up or find other sustainable solutions. The United Soybean Board partnered with Purdue University to evaluate whether the increased use of soybean oil in biofuels has contributed to the rising retail prices of food products for consumers. One key element missing from this equation is that only one-fifth of the soybean is oil, most of the soybean is meal used as a high-quality protein in animal diets. This expanded crush for oil to meet biofuel demand creates increased availability for meal, driving down the price of animal protein products. Jayson Lusk of Purdue University says, “What we found, after assessing the impact of rising soybean oil demand on prices at the grocery store, was little change to the Consumer Price Index.” While the increased demand for biofuels pushed up retail prices for oil between 0.16 percent and 4.41 percent, retail animal product prices declined between -0.01 percent and -0.16 percent.

Study shows soybean oil for biofuels has limited impact on overall food prices

The Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees. 

Members of the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee advise the administration on implementing and enforcing existing U.S. trade agreements, negotiation of new agreements, and other trade policy matters. 

Members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees, or ATACs, provide technical advice and guidance on international trade issues that affect specific agricultural commodity sectors. 

The ATACs focus on trade in animals and animal products, fruits and vegetables, grains, feed, oilseeds, and planting seeds, processed foods, sweeteners and sweetener products, tobacco, cotton, and peanuts. 

Applicants must have expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade to be considered for committee membership. Application instructions are available at fas.usda.gov. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2023.

The Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees. Members of the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee advise the administration on implementing and enforcing existing U.S. trade agreements, negotiation of new agreements, and other trade policy matters. Members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees, or ATACs, provide technical advice and guidance on international trade issues that affect specific agricultural commodity sectors. The ATACs focus on trade in animals and animal products, fruits and vegetables, grains, feed, oilseeds, and planting seeds, processed foods, sweeteners and sweetener products, tobacco, cotton, and peanuts. Applicants must have expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade to be considered for committee membership. Application instructions are available at fas.usda.gov. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2023.

USDA and USTR seek new trade advisory committee members

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an investment of $9.5 million to support the scale-up of sustainable bioproduct manufacturing in the United States. 

Three successful projects are funded through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Bioproduct Pilot Program, which funds research and development of value-added products from agricultural commodities. 

Authorized and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Bioproduct Pilot Program presents a unique opportunity to spur economic activity in the nation’s rural areas while lowering commercialization risks associated with bringing biobased products to market. 

The program’s exploration into bioproducts accelerates USDA’s efforts to develop circular bioeconomies, where agricultural resources are harvested, consumed, and regenerated sustainably. 

This pilot program also supports the objectives outlined in President Biden's recent Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing for a Sustainable, Safe, and Secure American Bioeconomy. The three awardees are Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Soylei Innovations of Ames, Iowa.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an investment of $9.5 million to support the scale-up of sustainable bioproduct manufacturing in the United States. Three successful projects are funded through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Bioproduct Pilot Program, which funds research and development of value-added products from agricultural commodities. Authorized and funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Bioproduct Pilot Program presents a unique opportunity to spur economic activity in the nation’s rural areas while lowering commercialization risks associated with bringing biobased products to market. The program’s exploration into bioproducts accelerates USDA’s efforts to develop circular bioeconomies, where agricultural resources are harvested, consumed, and regenerated sustainably. This pilot program also supports the objectives outlined in President Biden's recent Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing for a Sustainable, Safe, and Secure American Bioeconomy. The three awardees are Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Soylei Innovations of Ames, Iowa.

USDA invests $9.5M to develop new bioproducts from agricultural commodities

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and the Department of Agriculture are evaluating proposed amendments to Mexico’s decree to ban the use and purchase of biotech commodities. 

In a joint statement, USTR Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack say, “We agreed to review their proposal closely and follow up with questions or concerns in short order,” adding, “There is a joint recognition that time is of the essence and we must determine a path forward soon.” 

The two officials met with a delegation of senior Mexican Government officials in Washington, D.C. late last week. On the same day, a group of more than 20 farm-state Senators urged USTR and USDA to take action against Mexico’s proposal to ban U.S. genetically-engineered corn. 

The Senators write, “It would be detrimental to food security in Mexico, hurt U.S. agricultural sustainability, and stifle future agricultural technology innovations that would benefit both nations.”

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and the Department of Agriculture are evaluating proposed amendments to Mexico’s decree to ban the use and purchase of biotech commodities. In a joint statement, USTR Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack say, “We agreed to review their proposal closely and follow up with questions or concerns in short order,” adding, “There is a joint recognition that time is of the essence and we must determine a path forward soon.” The two officials met with a delegation of senior Mexican Government officials in Washington, D.C. late last week. On the same day, a group of more than 20 farm-state Senators urged USTR and USDA to take action against Mexico’s proposal to ban U.S. genetically-engineered corn. The Senators write, “It would be detrimental to food security in Mexico, hurt U.S. agricultural sustainability, and stifle future agricultural technology innovations that would benefit both nations.”

Mexico offers amendments to biotech decree

Alltech recently announced Applications are now open for the Women in Food &amp; Agriculture Mentorship Program. 

Now in its third year, the free-to-join program matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include gender of mentor, areas of expertise, language and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. 

Alltech President and CEO Mark Lyons says, “We view our involvement in the Women in Food &amp; Agriculture mentorship program as an investment not only in the lives of women but in the future of agriculture.” 

Women in Food &amp; Agriculture is looking for mentors of any gender who have at least one year of experience in the food and ag sector. 

During matching, the organization will ensure all mentors have more work experience than mentees, so this should not be a barrier to mentors applying. For more information and to apply to be a mentor or mentee, visit wfa-initiative.com

Alltech recently announced Applications are now open for the Women in Food &amp; Agriculture Mentorship Program. Now in its third year, the free-to-join program matches applicants based on their preferences, which can include gender of mentor, areas of expertise, language and industry sector, and offers opportunities for women in food and agriculture to develop meaningful industry connections. Alltech President and CEO Mark Lyons says, “We view our involvement in the Women in Food &amp; Agriculture mentorship program as an investment not only in the lives of women but in the future of agriculture.” Women in Food &amp; Agriculture is looking for mentors of any gender who have at least one year of experience in the food and ag sector. During matching, the organization will ensure all mentors have more work experience than mentees, so this should not be a barrier to mentors applying. For more information and to apply to be a mentor or mentee, visit wfa-initiative.com

Applications open for Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program

The Department of Agriculture Last week mailed the 2022 Census of Agriculture paper questionnaires to all known agriculture producers across the nation and Puerto Rico. 

Producers in the states received their survey codes last month with an invitation to respond online. 

Any producer who has yet to respond online now has the option to complete the ag census at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. 

Producers who have already responded online do not need to respond again. The deadline for response is February 6, 2023. USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “We know producers are busy, which is why NASS worked to make responding to the ag census more convenient than ever before.” 

The Census of Agriculture remains the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and U.S. territory. Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by law, and the same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential.

The Department of Agriculture Last week mailed the 2022 Census of Agriculture paper questionnaires to all known agriculture producers across the nation and Puerto Rico. Producers in the states received their survey codes last month with an invitation to respond online. Any producer who has yet to respond online now has the option to complete the ag census at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. Producers who have already responded online do not need to respond again. The deadline for response is February 6, 2023. USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “We know producers are busy, which is why NASS worked to make responding to the ag census more convenient than ever before.” The Census of Agriculture remains the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and U.S. territory. Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by law, and the same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential.

2022 Census of Agriculture underway

The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed changes to the nation’s biofuel blending mandates through 2025 will cause a short-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions. 

However, agency documents also say the changes will yield long-term reductions. 

The new proposal will add to greenhouse gas emissions over the next three years by between 81 million and 266 million tons. 

A Reuters review of the documents says the rise will come from new tiling for corn, soy, and other plantings that release carbon from the soil. EPA’s GHG calculator says that’s the climate equivalent of driving 17 million and 57 million vehicles for one year. 

However, EPA also projects those emissions will be more than offset in the long term due to reduced tailpipe emissions and other factors. Those figures are assuming biofuel volume mandates don’t change after 2025. EPA says the proposal would reduce GHGs by between 128 million and 1.6 billion metric tons.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed changes to the nation’s biofuel blending mandates through 2025 will cause a short-term increase in greenhouse gas emissions. However, agency documents also say the changes will yield long-term reductions. The new proposal will add to greenhouse gas emissions over the next three years by between 81 million and 266 million tons. A Reuters review of the documents says the rise will come from new tiling for corn, soy, and other plantings that release carbon from the soil. EPA’s GHG calculator says that’s the climate equivalent of driving 17 million and 57 million vehicles for one year. However, EPA also projects those emissions will be more than offset in the long term due to reduced tailpipe emissions and other factors. Those figures are assuming biofuel volume mandates don’t change after 2025. EPA says the proposal would reduce GHGs by between 128 million and 1.6 billion metric tons.

EPA: New biofuel mandates will boost GHG in short term

A total of 20 agricultural groups argued before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., about chlorpyrifos. 

Specifically, they asked the court to reinstate chlorpyrifos tolerances that the Environmental Protection Agency has found safe. 

EPA revoked those safe tolerances, which effectively ended agriculture’s chance to use an important pesticide. 

The decision has inflicted enormous costs on thousands of American farmers and undermined their ability to protect their crops from potentially devastating insect pests. The groups say EPA revoked the safety tolerances despite finding on multiple occasions that at least 11 high-benefit crop uses could be safely maintained. 

American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “Farmers rely on regulators following the law. Congress wrote the pesticide laws that way to provide growers access to the tools they need to be successful and ensure those tools can be used safely.” The groups are hopeful for a ruling in the coming months.

A total of 20 agricultural groups argued before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., about chlorpyrifos. Specifically, they asked the court to reinstate chlorpyrifos tolerances that the Environmental Protection Agency has found safe. EPA revoked those safe tolerances, which effectively ended agriculture’s chance to use an important pesticide. The decision has inflicted enormous costs on thousands of American farmers and undermined their ability to protect their crops from potentially devastating insect pests. The groups say EPA revoked the safety tolerances despite finding on multiple occasions that at least 11 high-benefit crop uses could be safely maintained. American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “Farmers rely on regulators following the law. Congress wrote the pesticide laws that way to provide growers access to the tools they need to be successful and ensure those tools can be used safely.” The groups are hopeful for a ruling in the coming months.

Groups argue in court to preserve Chlorpyrifos

The American Business Coalition Immigration Action group applauded the Senate introduction of the Affordable and Safe Food Act. 

The legislation would modernize the nation’s farm guest worker H-2A visa program by opening it up to more farmers. 

“ABIC Action fully endorses this bill and is so grateful for the leadership of Senator Michael Bennet in introducing the legislation,” says ABIC executive director Rebecca Shi. 

The bill would make visas available for year-round work in the dairy industry and other agricultural sectors, put a down payment on border security with mandatory e-verify, stabilize wages for farmers, and create legal protections and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented decade-plus farm workers. 

Senator Bennet says the cost of farm labor has gone up almost 50 percent over the past decade, much higher than wage costs in other sectors of the economy. The bill would save farmers $23 billion over the next 12 years.

The American Business Coalition Immigration Action group applauded the Senate introduction of the Affordable and Safe Food Act. The legislation would modernize the nation’s farm guest worker H-2A visa program by opening it up to more farmers. “ABIC Action fully endorses this bill and is so grateful for the leadership of Senator Michael Bennet in introducing the legislation,” says ABIC executive director Rebecca Shi. The bill would make visas available for year-round work in the dairy industry and other agricultural sectors, put a down payment on border security with mandatory e-verify, stabilize wages for farmers, and create legal protections and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented decade-plus farm workers. Senator Bennet says the cost of farm labor has gone up almost 50 percent over the past decade, much higher than wage costs in other sectors of the economy. The bill would save farmers $23 billion over the next 12 years.

Group supports modernizing H-2A visa program

Taylor Sheridan will speak during the Opening General Session of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention &amp; NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans on February 1. 

Sheridan will join NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, a Minnesota cattle producer, for a conversation about ranch life. 

Sheridan says, “My passion for the ranching lifestyle has inspired me to write stories that are rich in history, led by complex characters, and focus on family dynamics.” 

Sheridan is an Academy Award®-nominated writer and actor as well as a member of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. A Texas native himself, Sheridan excels in the Western horse performance industry as an avid supporter and competitor in reining and cutting. 

He also owns and operates two Texas ranches, including the legendary 6666 or Four Sixes Ranch, a 2015 Environmental Stewardship Award Program regional winner, and Bosque Ranch. Sheridan recently launched Four Sixes® Ranch Brand Beef which retails beef sourced from 6666 and a network of ranches.

Taylor Sheridan will speak during the Opening General Session of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention &amp; NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans on February 1. Sheridan will join NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, a Minnesota cattle producer, for a conversation about ranch life. Sheridan says, “My passion for the ranching lifestyle has inspired me to write stories that are rich in history, led by complex characters, and focus on family dynamics.” Sheridan is an Academy Award®-nominated writer and actor as well as a member of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. A Texas native himself, Sheridan excels in the Western horse performance industry as an avid supporter and competitor in reining and cutting. He also owns and operates two Texas ranches, including the legendary 6666 or Four Sixes Ranch, a 2015 Environmental Stewardship Award Program regional winner, and Bosque Ranch. Sheridan recently launched Four Sixes® Ranch Brand Beef which retails beef sourced from 6666 and a network of ranches.

“Yellowstone” creator to speak at annual Cattle Industry Convention

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Thursday announced USDA is investing $285 million in critical infrastructure. 

The investment seeks to lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy for people across rural America, and combat climate change. 

USDA is also making an additional $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program, including $250 million through the Inflation Reduction Act, to spur further investment. 

Vilsack says, "People in rural America are on the front lines of climate change, and our communities deserve investments that will strengthen our Country's resilience." 

USDA is making 844 investments through the Rural Energy for America Program. The program helps farmers purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. 

USDA also announced that it will make $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program to expand renewable energy and support energy-efficiency projects. 

The deadline to apply for grants is March 31, 2023. Applications for technical assistance grants are due January 31, 2023. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Thursday announced USDA is investing $285 million in critical infrastructure. The investment seeks to lower energy costs, expand access to clean energy for people across rural America, and combat climate change. USDA is also making an additional $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program, including $250 million through the Inflation Reduction Act, to spur further investment. Vilsack says, "People in rural America are on the front lines of climate change, and our communities deserve investments that will strengthen our Country's resilience." USDA is making 844 investments through the Rural Energy for America Program. The program helps farmers purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. USDA also announced that it will make $300 million available under the Rural Energy for America Program to expand renewable energy and support energy-efficiency projects. The deadline to apply for grants is March 31, 2023. Applications for technical assistance grants are due January 31, 2023. Applications for loan guarantees are accepted year-round.

USDA invests in infrastructure to combat climate change in rural America

In a last-minute effort to get H-2A reform finished before Congress adjourns, lawmakers have introduced a new bill. 

Senator Michael Bennet, a Democrat from Colorado and Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican, introduced the Affordable and Secure Food Act Thursday. 

The legislation will reform the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker program by expanding H-2A visas to year-round jobs for the first time, modernizing the application process, creating more wage certainty, and ensuring critical protections for farm workers. 

Senator Bennet says, “This plan is broadly supported by farmers, by labor, by immigration advocates, and business,” adding, “There is no reason that we shouldn’t get this done.” 

Representative Newhouse says, “let’s stop waiting, and start acting,” and “reform our broken immigration laws.” The legislation reflects years of close input from farmers and ranchers, agricultural workers, and labor organizations, and would establish a program for agriculture workers, along with their spouses and minor children, to earn legal status.

In a last-minute effort to get H-2A reform finished before Congress adjourns, lawmakers have introduced a new bill. Senator Michael Bennet, a Democrat from Colorado and Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican, introduced the Affordable and Secure Food Act Thursday. The legislation will reform the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker program by expanding H-2A visas to year-round jobs for the first time, modernizing the application process, creating more wage certainty, and ensuring critical protections for farm workers. Senator Bennet says, “This plan is broadly supported by farmers, by labor, by immigration advocates, and business,” adding, “There is no reason that we shouldn’t get this done.” Representative Newhouse says, “let’s stop waiting, and start acting,” and “reform our broken immigration laws.” The legislation reflects years of close input from farmers and ranchers, agricultural workers, and labor organizations, and would establish a program for agriculture workers, along with their spouses and minor children, to earn legal status.

Bennet, Newhouse, introduce last minute farm labor bill

Leaders of state corn groups and the National Corn Growers Association called on President Biden to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. 

A letter sent to the President Wednesday encouraged Biden to raise the issue during upcoming trade talks and to file a dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement if Mexico doesn't act expeditiously to withdraw the decree. 

The leaders say, "Corn farmers are right now in the process of making planting decisions for next spring, and any additional uncertainty in the market affects their ability to appropriately respond to multiple market signals." 

Mexico's Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard plans to visit Washington this week to discuss the issue ahead of a planned meeting on trade between Biden, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early January. The state corn grower leaders urged Biden to raise the issue at the meeting.

Leaders of state corn groups and the National Corn Growers Association called on President Biden to take additional steps to address the pending decree by Mexico that would block imports of biotech corn. A letter sent to the President Wednesday encouraged Biden to raise the issue during upcoming trade talks and to file a dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement if Mexico doesn't act expeditiously to withdraw the decree. The leaders say, "Corn farmers are right now in the process of making planting decisions for next spring, and any additional uncertainty in the market affects their ability to appropriately respond to multiple market signals." Mexico's Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard plans to visit Washington this week to discuss the issue ahead of a planned meeting on trade between Biden, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in early January. The state corn grower leaders urged Biden to raise the issue at the meeting.

Corn growers call on Biden to set quick, firm timeline with Mexico

Fresh data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows counties with continuous high poverty since 1960 are largely rural. 

In 1960, 78 percent of U.S. counties had poverty rates of 20 percent or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among them, 28 percent continued to have high poverty through 1980. 

After enactment of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, commonly known as the War on Poverty initiatives, many counties reported reduced poverty rates. 

Between 1980 and 2019, poverty rates were relatively stable, mainly fluctuating with cyclical changes in the macroeconomy. As of 2019, there were 304 counties—13 percent of the counties with high poverty in 1960—that consistently had poverty rates of 20 percent or more over the last 60 years. 

The majority—264 counties—are rural counties and are clustered in the Appalachian States; the Black Belt in the South; the Mississippi Delta; the Ozarks region of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas; the Southwest; and in counties with large American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Fresh data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows counties with continuous high poverty since 1960 are largely rural. In 1960, 78 percent of U.S. counties had poverty rates of 20 percent or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among them, 28 percent continued to have high poverty through 1980. After enactment of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, commonly known as the War on Poverty initiatives, many counties reported reduced poverty rates. Between 1980 and 2019, poverty rates were relatively stable, mainly fluctuating with cyclical changes in the macroeconomy. As of 2019, there were 304 counties—13 percent of the counties with high poverty in 1960—that consistently had poverty rates of 20 percent or more over the last 60 years. The majority—264 counties—are rural counties and are clustered in the Appalachian States; the Black Belt in the South; the Mississippi Delta; the Ozarks region of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas; the Southwest; and in counties with large American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Counties with continuous high poverty since 1960 largely rural

NOAA Fisheries Wednesday announced $105 million in funding for 36 new fish passage projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

The announcement includes significant funding to implement fish passage projects that meet tribal priorities and build tribal organizational capacity to support their role as stewards of tribal resources. 

Through the funding, NOAA prioritized projects that demonstrate a broad base of stakeholder and community support. 

Selected projects will span the full range of fish passage types, including dam removals, fish ladders, culvert improvements and in-stream fish passage improvements. NOAA says 15 of the projects, encompassing more than $26.3 million in funding, will be led by tribal applicants for fish passage. 

Fish passage is about improving access for fish to the habitats they need or reconnecting access to historic habitat blocked by humans. Migratory fish like salmon require access to high-quality rearing and spawning habitats, and unimpeded migratory corridors, to be successful and resilient.

NOAA Fisheries Wednesday announced $105 million in funding for 36 new fish passage projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The announcement includes significant funding to implement fish passage projects that meet tribal priorities and build tribal organizational capacity to support their role as stewards of tribal resources. Through the funding, NOAA prioritized projects that demonstrate a broad base of stakeholder and community support. Selected projects will span the full range of fish passage types, including dam removals, fish ladders, culvert improvements and in-stream fish passage improvements. NOAA says 15 of the projects, encompassing more than $26.3 million in funding, will be led by tribal applicants for fish passage. Fish passage is about improving access for fish to the habitats they need or reconnecting access to historic habitat blocked by humans. Migratory fish like salmon require access to high-quality rearing and spawning habitats, and unimpeded migratory corridors, to be successful and resilient.

NOAA announces funding for fish habitats across U.S.

The current 2022-2023 U.S. soybean balance sheet remains unchanged for now as export and crush volumes are in line with current forecasts. 

Although soybean meal is off to the projected start, the same can’t be said for soybean oil. 

Abysmal export volumes and commitments have resulted in a lower soybean oil export forecast for the current marketing year, dropping by 200 million pounds to 1.1 million pounds. 

Total commitments were down 90 percent on December 1. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its renewable fuel obligation targets for 2023-2025, which included a slight bump in the biomass-based diesel mandate during the first year. 

The EPA also approved and finalized a pathway for canola oil used in renewable diesel production. As a result, America’s soybean and canola oil balance sheets are changed to nearly offset the expected impacts on domestic use. Ultimately, the soybean oil ending stocks forecast got raised to 1.9 billion pounds.

The current 2022-2023 U.S. soybean balance sheet remains unchanged for now as export and crush volumes are in line with current forecasts. Although soybean meal is off to the projected start, the same can’t be said for soybean oil. Abysmal export volumes and commitments have resulted in a lower soybean oil export forecast for the current marketing year, dropping by 200 million pounds to 1.1 million pounds. Total commitments were down 90 percent on December 1. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its renewable fuel obligation targets for 2023-2025, which included a slight bump in the biomass-based diesel mandate during the first year. The EPA also approved and finalized a pathway for canola oil used in renewable diesel production. As a result, America’s soybean and canola oil balance sheets are changed to nearly offset the expected impacts on domestic use. Ultimately, the soybean oil ending stocks forecast got raised to 1.9 billion pounds.

Lower soybean oil demand means higher ending stocks

Americans are paying up to 40 percent more for their vegetables than in 2021, and drought is a big reason for the price hike. 

A new report from Daily Mail says the increase is due, in large part, to states that grow fresh produce getting hit with water cuts because of droughts and storms destroying some crops as well. 

For example, Arizona produces 90 percent of the leafy greens in the U.S. and experienced its worst drought in 1,200 years. 

Water levels in the Colorado River are dramatically low, cutting down on the amount of water available to farmers. No relief is coming for Arizona’s farmers as officials will cut Arizona’s water intake from the Colorado River by 21 percent starting on January 1, 2023. 

The nation’s top agricultural state, California, is also getting hurt by severe drought. The biggest increase was a 38 percent jump in the price of fresh and dry vegetables.

Americans are paying up to 40 percent more for their vegetables than in 2021, and drought is a big reason for the price hike. A new report from Daily Mail says the increase is due, in large part, to states that grow fresh produce getting hit with water cuts because of droughts and storms destroying some crops as well. For example, Arizona produces 90 percent of the leafy greens in the U.S. and experienced its worst drought in 1,200 years. Water levels in the Colorado River are dramatically low, cutting down on the amount of water available to farmers. No relief is coming for Arizona’s farmers as officials will cut Arizona’s water intake from the Colorado River by 21 percent starting on January 1, 2023. The nation’s top agricultural state, California, is also getting hurt by severe drought. The biggest increase was a 38 percent jump in the price of fresh and dry vegetables.

Vegetable prices up 40 percent

USDA says inspections of soybeans and grain for overseas delivery all fell in the seven days ending on December 8. 

Soybean assessments came in at 1.84 million metric tons, down from over two million tons the prior week. 

That’s still better than the 1.75 million reported during the same week last year. Corn inspections also fell, dropping to 505,000 metric tons. 

That number was down from almost 825,000 the previous week. That corn number was also below the total from the same time last year of 930,000 metric tons.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wheat inspections totaled just 218,500 metric tons, down from more than 341,000 the week before and 269,000 during the same week last year. 

Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 7.15 million metric tons of corn for export, 23.4 million metric tons of soybeans, and 11.1 million metric tons of wheat. The wheat marketing year began on June 1.

USDA says inspections of soybeans and grain for overseas delivery all fell in the seven days ending on December 8. Soybean assessments came in at 1.84 million metric tons, down from over two million tons the prior week. That’s still better than the 1.75 million reported during the same week last year. Corn inspections also fell, dropping to 505,000 metric tons. That number was down from almost 825,000 the previous week. That corn number was also below the total from the same time last year of 930,000 metric tons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wheat inspections totaled just 218,500 metric tons, down from more than 341,000 the week before and 269,000 during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 7.15 million metric tons of corn for export, 23.4 million metric tons of soybeans, and 11.1 million metric tons of wheat. The wheat marketing year began on June 1.

Weekly export inspection numbers drop

Missouri transportation officials are lifting some regulations to make it easier to transport large loads of hay to drought-stricken central and southern Missouri.&nbsp;

MoDot has announced an extension to permits for over-width hauling through March 1st of next year.&nbsp;

MoDot Project manager DeAnne Richabaugh says this single trip permit will allow for transportation of wide loads of hay.&nbsp;

"Normally a load cannot exceed eight feet six inches, but for those who are hauling double bales we might exceed eight feet, six inches," Richabaugh tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, for those who have loads that are wider than eight feet six inches, we still require a permit, but we will issue them at no charge."&nbsp;

The permits will only be valid in transporting hay through Missouri. &nbsp;

Richabaugh says these permits allow for loads up to 14 feet wide, and drivers should be aware of this when hitting the road.&nbsp;

"So, drivers just need to be attentive and make sure that if they go to pass one of these loads, they have a clear berth, and just make room, "Richabaugh explains.&nbsp;

The new allowance for travel also allows farmers to haul hay over the holidays and at night.&nbsp;

"So, these loads could be on the highway at any time," Richabaugh says. "At night drivers will see an oversize load sign that's reflective and there will be special clearance lights so other drivers can see the edges and know how wide the load is."&nbsp;

Single trip permits can be acquired by calling MoDot or by going on the MoDot website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670955425230.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Missouri transportation officials are lifting some regulations to make it easier to transport large loads of hay to drought-stricken central and southern Missouri.&nbsp;MoDot has announced an extension to permits for over-width hauling through March 1st of next year.&nbsp;MoDot Project manager DeAnne Richabaugh says this single trip permit will allow for transportation of wide loads of hay.&nbsp;"Normally a load cannot exceed eight feet six inches, but for those who are hauling double bales we might exceed eight feet, six inches," Richabaugh tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, for those who have loads that are wider than eight feet six inches, we still require a permit, but we will issue them at no charge."&nbsp;The permits will only be valid in transporting hay through Missouri. &nbsp;Richabaugh says these permits allow for loads up to 14 feet wide, and drivers should be aware of this when hitting the road.&nbsp;"So, drivers just need to be attentive and make sure that if they go to pass one of these loads, they have a clear berth, and just make room, "Richabaugh explains.&nbsp;The new allowance for travel also allows farmers to haul hay over the holidays and at night.&nbsp;"So, these loads could be on the highway at any time," Richabaugh says. "At night drivers will see an oversize load sign that's reflective and there will be special clearance lights so other drivers can see the edges and know how wide the load is."&nbsp;Single trip permits can be acquired by calling MoDot or by going on the MoDot website.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

State lifts rules so large loads of hay can be taken to drought-stricken parts of Missouri

Portland, Oregon’s city council recently voted to phase out petroleum diesel sales and replace the product with biofuels. 

The policy focuses on diesel fuel, phasing in requirements for cleaner, renewable fuels, with the goal of achieving 99 percent renewable blend of all diesel fuel sales in Portland by 2030. 

The rulemaking process and the interim rule allows flexibility to adjust the policy based on real market conditions. 

While renewable fuel producers are confident that supply will be available in Oregon by 2026, the rollout timeline was extended to 2030 in response to concerns from local industry about supply and cost. 

City leaders say the efforts reduce dependence on nonrenewable fossil fuels by increasing the required percentage of renewable fuels blended with petroleum diesel. 

The standard only applies to retailers of diesel fuel located within the city of Portland. Replacing petroleum diesel at the pump is one of the 43 priority actions listed in the Portland Climate Emergency Workplan.

Portland, Oregon’s city council recently voted to phase out petroleum diesel sales and replace the product with biofuels. The policy focuses on diesel fuel, phasing in requirements for cleaner, renewable fuels, with the goal of achieving 99 percent renewable blend of all diesel fuel sales in Portland by 2030. The rulemaking process and the interim rule allows flexibility to adjust the policy based on real market conditions. While renewable fuel producers are confident that supply will be available in Oregon by 2026, the rollout timeline was extended to 2030 in response to concerns from local industry about supply and cost. City leaders say the efforts reduce dependence on nonrenewable fossil fuels by increasing the required percentage of renewable fuels blended with petroleum diesel. The standard only applies to retailers of diesel fuel located within the city of Portland. Replacing petroleum diesel at the pump is one of the 43 priority actions listed in the Portland Climate Emergency Workplan.

Portland to replace petroleum diesel sales with biodiesel

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a regional trade mission to Panama from March 19-23, 2023. 

FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley says, "This is a perfect time to increase U.S. agricultural and food exports to Central America." 

USDA staff and regional experts will provide in-depth market briefings while in the country. 

The agency will also arrange targeted business meetings with potential customers from Panama, a bilateral Free Trade Agreement partner, and buyers from countries in the multilateral Central America and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement. The region offers strong capabilities in logistics, distribution, processing, cold chain, and more. 

Strong opportunities exist for exporters across many industries, including poultry, pork, dairy, beer and wine, snack foods and health foods. This will be the first USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission in 2023. The deadline to apply for the CAFTA-DR trade mission is Friday, December 30. Complete information is available at fas.usda.gov/.

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a regional trade mission to Panama from March 19-23, 2023. FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley says, "This is a perfect time to increase U.S. agricultural and food exports to Central America." USDA staff and regional experts will provide in-depth market briefings while in the country. The agency will also arrange targeted business meetings with potential customers from Panama, a bilateral Free Trade Agreement partner, and buyers from countries in the multilateral Central America and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement. The region offers strong capabilities in logistics, distribution, processing, cold chain, and more. Strong opportunities exist for exporters across many industries, including poultry, pork, dairy, beer and wine, snack foods and health foods. This will be the first USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission in 2023. The deadline to apply for the CAFTA-DR trade mission is Friday, December 30. Complete information is available at fas.usda.gov/.

USDA accepting applications for Panama Agribusiness Trade Mission

The Federal Trade Commission recently finalized a consent order settling Tractor Supply Company’s acquisition of rival chain Orscheln Farm and Home LLC. 

Following a public comment period, the FTC determined the acquisition would have harmed competition among farm stores in the Midwest and South. 

The consent order imposes a number of requirements, including that Tractor Supply divest some Orscheln stores, as well as Orscheln’s corporate offices and Missouri distribution center, to Bomgaars ), an Iowa-based farm store chain, and other stores to Buchheit, another chain with farm stores in Missouri and Illinois. 

Tractor Supply Company announced it closed the Orscheln Farm and Home acquisition in October in a deal valued at $320 million. 

The consent agreement also requires that for a period of three years, the companies buying the divested farm stores must obtain prior approval from the FTC before selling any of the Orscheln stores they acquired.

The Federal Trade Commission recently finalized a consent order settling Tractor Supply Company’s acquisition of rival chain Orscheln Farm and Home LLC. Following a public comment period, the FTC determined the acquisition would have harmed competition among farm stores in the Midwest and South. The consent order imposes a number of requirements, including that Tractor Supply divest some Orscheln stores, as well as Orscheln’s corporate offices and Missouri distribution center, to Bomgaars ), an Iowa-based farm store chain, and other stores to Buchheit, another chain with farm stores in Missouri and Illinois. Tractor Supply Company announced it closed the Orscheln Farm and Home acquisition in October in a deal valued at $320 million. The consent agreement also requires that for a period of three years, the companies buying the divested farm stores must obtain prior approval from the FTC before selling any of the Orscheln stores they acquired.