The National Corn Growers Association urges the Environmental Protection Agency to use biofuels to reduce automobile emissions. 

NCGA&nbsp;Chairman&nbsp;Chris Edgington testified to the EPA during a public hearing earlier this week regarding EPA's proposed Multi-Pollutant Emission Standards for model years 2027-2032. 

Edgington expressed frustration that EPA only looked at one solution, electric vehicles, to lower greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions. 

The NCGA leader says, "EPA's proposal limits the ability of clean, low-carbon ethanol to contribute greater emission reductions and support affordable options." 

Edgington encouraged EPA to address the serious limitations of its proposal and work with NCGA to level the playing field and advance the needed rulemaking to improve fuel standards. 

Edgington added, “Clean, high-octane fuel from mid-level ethanol blends, used as a system with advanced engines, offers an essential pathway for achieving significant greenhouse gas and complementary criteria emission reductions from model year 2027 and later vehicles.”

The National Corn Growers Association urges the Environmental Protection Agency to use biofuels to reduce automobile emissions. NCGA&nbsp;Chairman&nbsp;Chris Edgington testified to the EPA during a public hearing earlier this week regarding EPA's proposed Multi-Pollutant Emission Standards for model years 2027-2032. Edgington expressed frustration that EPA only looked at one solution, electric vehicles, to lower greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions. The NCGA leader says, "EPA's proposal limits the ability of clean, low-carbon ethanol to contribute greater emission reductions and support affordable options." Edgington encouraged EPA to address the serious limitations of its proposal and work with NCGA to level the playing field and advance the needed rulemaking to improve fuel standards. Edgington added, “Clean, high-octane fuel from mid-level ethanol blends, used as a system with advanced engines, offers an essential pathway for achieving significant greenhouse gas and complementary criteria emission reductions from model year 2027 and later vehicles.”Courtesy of NAFB

NCGA: Biofuels should be used to lower auto emissions

The Consumer Price Index rose again in April, but grocery store prices for food declined. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.4 percent in April. 

The overall food index was unchanged in April, as the food at home index fell 0.2 percent over the month, following a 0.3-percent decrease in March. 

Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month. The index for fruits and vegetables decreased 0.5 percent in April, and the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs declined 0.3 percent. 

The dairy and related products index decreased 0.7 percent in April as the milk index fell 2.0 percent, the largest decline in that index since February 2015. 

The nonalcoholic beverages index declined 0.1 percent over the month. In contrast, the index for other food at home rose 0.2 percent in April, following a 0.4-percent increase the previous month.

The Consumer Price Index rose again in April, but grocery store prices for food declined. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.4 percent in April. The overall food index was unchanged in April, as the food at home index fell 0.2 percent over the month, following a 0.3-percent decrease in March. Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month. The index for fruits and vegetables decreased 0.5 percent in April, and the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs declined 0.3 percent. The dairy and related products index decreased 0.7 percent in April as the milk index fell 2.0 percent, the largest decline in that index since February 2015. The nonalcoholic beverages index declined 0.1 percent over the month. In contrast, the index for other food at home rose 0.2 percent in April, following a 0.4-percent increase the previous month.Courtesy of NAFB

Consumer Price Index increases, grocery store prices lower

Bipartisan legislation introduced by New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker and Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley in the Senate would change the Conservation Reserve Program. 

The Conservation Reserve Program Reform Act would prioritize enrolling marginal farmland in the CRP, rather than prime farmland. 

The lawmakers say the legislation would generate more durable wildlife and environmental benefits while reducing competition for productive farmland between the Department of Agriculture and farmers, especially new and beginning farmers. 

Senator Grassley says, “The reforms in this bill ensure that CRP is not used on highly-productive farmland and instead focus the program on highly-erodible land.”&nbsp; The CRP Reform Act would set CRP's overall acreage cap at 24 million acres for fiscal year 2024 to 2028, with an emphasis on enrolling marginal land. 

The bill would increase incentives to enroll marginal farmland through the continuous enrollment and grasslands categories while reducing the rental rate for general CRP sign-ups by ten percent.

Bipartisan legislation introduced by New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker and Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley in the Senate would change the Conservation Reserve Program. The Conservation Reserve Program Reform Act would prioritize enrolling marginal farmland in the CRP, rather than prime farmland. The lawmakers say the legislation would generate more durable wildlife and environmental benefits while reducing competition for productive farmland between the Department of Agriculture and farmers, especially new and beginning farmers. Senator Grassley says, “The reforms in this bill ensure that CRP is not used on highly-productive farmland and instead focus the program on highly-erodible land.”&nbsp; The CRP Reform Act would set CRP's overall acreage cap at 24 million acres for fiscal year 2024 to 2028, with an emphasis on enrolling marginal land. The bill would increase incentives to enroll marginal farmland through the continuous enrollment and grasslands categories while reducing the rental rate for general CRP sign-ups by ten percent.Courtesy of NAFB

Booker-Grassley bill offers CRP reforms

The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects a slightly cooler summer in 2023 will lead to less demand for air conditioning than in 2022. 

The result will slightly reduce overall electricity demand this summer. 

EIA expects that despite less electricity demand this summer, more electricity will be generated from renewable sources and natural gas throughout 2023. 

EIA forecasts this summer will see the second-most U.S. natural gas consumption for electricity generation on record, surpassed only by last summer. 

EIA continues to expect significant growth in U.S. electricity generation from wind and solar, but the wet winter in California and the western United States should also increase electricity generated from hydropower during the coming months. 

EIA expects U.S. retail electricity costs will remain higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Those higher prices mean that even if households consume less electricity, their electricity bills will likely be similar to or slightly higher than last summer.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects a slightly cooler summer in 2023 will lead to less demand for air conditioning than in 2022. The result will slightly reduce overall electricity demand this summer. EIA expects that despite less electricity demand this summer, more electricity will be generated from renewable sources and natural gas throughout 2023. EIA forecasts this summer will see the second-most U.S. natural gas consumption for electricity generation on record, surpassed only by last summer. EIA continues to expect significant growth in U.S. electricity generation from wind and solar, but the wet winter in California and the western United States should also increase electricity generated from hydropower during the coming months. EIA expects U.S. retail electricity costs will remain higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Those higher prices mean that even if households consume less electricity, their electricity bills will likely be similar to or slightly higher than last summer.

EIA expects less electricity demand this summer, more generation from renewables

The American Farm Bureau Federation urges the Department of Agriculture to accept the National Milk Producers Federation's Federal Milk Marketing Order petition. 

AFBF says the petition provides a long-overdue comprehensive Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing to ensure that consumers can access fresh milk and dairy products while protecting dairy farmers from potentially harmful market conditions. 

AFBF President Zippy Duvall calls on USDA to hold a hearing on FMMO reform and asks the department to go further than a recent NMPF petition by asking for mandatory, audited surveys of dairy processors to be used when determining the make allowances factored into dairy pricing. 

The letter indicates USDA's authority to conduct a mandatory audit under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act. This change and the need for additional reforms were part of a farmer consensus formed at the AFBF-hosted FMMO Forum held in Kansas City, Missouri, last October. NMPF filed its petition on May 1, and USDA must respond to the petition within 30 days.

The American Farm Bureau Federation urges the Department of Agriculture to accept the National Milk Producers Federation's Federal Milk Marketing Order petition. AFBF says the petition provides a long-overdue comprehensive Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing to ensure that consumers can access fresh milk and dairy products while protecting dairy farmers from potentially harmful market conditions. AFBF President Zippy Duvall calls on USDA to hold a hearing on FMMO reform and asks the department to go further than a recent NMPF petition by asking for mandatory, audited surveys of dairy processors to be used when determining the make allowances factored into dairy pricing. The letter indicates USDA's authority to conduct a mandatory audit under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act. This change and the need for additional reforms were part of a farmer consensus formed at the AFBF-hosted FMMO Forum held in Kansas City, Missouri, last October. NMPF filed its petition on May 1, and USDA must respond to the petition within 30 days.

AFBF urges USDA to accept petition for FMMO hearing

The Consumer Brands Association says implementing proposed tariffs of up to 300 percent on tinplate steel imports would increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 30 percent. 

The association released two studies on the proposal, which would threaten nearly 40,000 union and non-union manufacturing jobs. 

The economic impact studies bolster Consumer Brands’ efforts to urge the Department of Commerce and International Trade Commission (I to deny a petition submitted by steel conglomerate Cleveland-Cliffs to impose tariffs of up to 300% on imported tinplate steel from eight countries. 

Because tinplate is used in hundreds of canned goods – everything from soup to shaving cream – imposing the requested tariffs would raise production costs for U.S. can manufacturers and trigger price hikes for every consumer, as supported by the research. 

According to the research, the proposed tariffs will increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 58 cents per product.

The Consumer Brands Association says implementing proposed tariffs of up to 300 percent on tinplate steel imports would increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 30 percent. The association released two studies on the proposal, which would threaten nearly 40,000 union and non-union manufacturing jobs. The economic impact studies bolster Consumer Brands’ efforts to urge the Department of Commerce and International Trade Commission (I to deny a petition submitted by steel conglomerate Cleveland-Cliffs to impose tariffs of up to 300% on imported tinplate steel from eight countries. Because tinplate is used in hundreds of canned goods – everything from soup to shaving cream – imposing the requested tariffs would raise production costs for U.S. can manufacturers and trigger price hikes for every consumer, as supported by the research. According to the research, the proposed tariffs will increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 58 cents per product.

Research: Tinplate steel tariffs will harm American consumers

It’s no secret to anyone working in equipment manufacturing the ever-growing technician shortage is a problem poised to get a lot worse before it gets better. 

According to a 2020 report, the industry may need to fill as many as 73,500 heavy equipment technician positions by 2025. 

In addition, the report stated equipment manufacturing possesses a job opening rate three times higher than the national average. 

Among survey respondents, 95 percent agreed with the assertion there was a skills gap in the industry, while 89 percent reported a shortage of workers within their companies. 

Julie Davis, AEM Senior Director of Workforce and Industry Initiatives, says, “Equipment manufacturers can and should embrace and adopt a number of short-term and long-term strategies to set themselves up for sustained success as it relates to workforce development. 

AEM offers four tips to businesses for addressing the shortage: focus on retention, fill the talent pipeline, diversify and optimize recruitment strategies, and collaborate with others.

It’s no secret to anyone working in equipment manufacturing the ever-growing technician shortage is a problem poised to get a lot worse before it gets better. According to a 2020 report, the industry may need to fill as many as 73,500 heavy equipment technician positions by 2025. In addition, the report stated equipment manufacturing possesses a job opening rate three times higher than the national average. Among survey respondents, 95 percent agreed with the assertion there was a skills gap in the industry, while 89 percent reported a shortage of workers within their companies. Julie Davis, AEM Senior Director of Workforce and Industry Initiatives, says, “Equipment manufacturers can and should embrace and adopt a number of short-term and long-term strategies to set themselves up for sustained success as it relates to workforce development. AEM offers four tips to businesses for addressing the shortage: focus on retention, fill the talent pipeline, diversify and optimize recruitment strategies, and collaborate with others.

AEM offers ways to address the industry’s technician shortage

USDA’s Agricultural Research Service is completing a 10-year study on grazing practices. 

The study focuses on the two systems of grazing, season-long grazing and intensive rotational grazing, looking at how the systems affect cattle foraging behavior, diet quality, and yearly weight gain in semi-arid, extensive rangelands. 

The study showed herds in the multi-paddock rotating system feeding in more linear pathways instead of moving around looking for greener grass and selecting bites of more digestible vegetation. 

They also fed slower, spent more time on the same patch of grass, and didn't turn their heads around much while feeding, compared with steers in the continuous grazing system. These behaviors of less selective foraging resulted in a lower diet quality, reducing weight gain during the growing season. 

Results, published in Agriculture, Ecosystems, and Environment, show that large herds grazing in small, homogenous paddocks have little opportunity to move around in ways that let them feed on high-quality diet.

USDA’s Agricultural Research Service is completing a 10-year study on grazing practices. The study focuses on the two systems of grazing, season-long grazing and intensive rotational grazing, looking at how the systems affect cattle foraging behavior, diet quality, and yearly weight gain in semi-arid, extensive rangelands. The study showed herds in the multi-paddock rotating system feeding in more linear pathways instead of moving around looking for greener grass and selecting bites of more digestible vegetation. They also fed slower, spent more time on the same patch of grass, and didn't turn their heads around much while feeding, compared with steers in the continuous grazing system. These behaviors of less selective foraging resulted in a lower diet quality, reducing weight gain during the growing season. Results, published in Agriculture, Ecosystems, and Environment, show that large herds grazing in small, homogenous paddocks have little opportunity to move around in ways that let them feed on high-quality diet.

Research reveals how grazing management affects cattle weight gain

March U.S. pork exports were the largest since May 2021, and beef export volumes were the largest since October, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. 

March pork exports totaled 260,195 metric tons, up 17 percent year-over-year and the ninth-largest volume on record. 

Export value was also the ninth largest at $724 million, up 18 percent from a year ago. 

These results capped a strong first quarter for U.S. pork as exports reached 716,691 metric tons, up 14 percent from a year ago, valued at $1.96 billion. Beef exports totaled 120,495 metric tons in March, down five percent from a year ago. 

Export value fell 17 percent to $892.6 million, but both volume and value were the highest in five months. Through the first quarter, beef exports were down eight percent year-over-year to 326,494 metric tons, valued at $2.35 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;March exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 218 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago.

March U.S. pork exports were the largest since May 2021, and beef export volumes were the largest since October, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. March pork exports totaled 260,195 metric tons, up 17 percent year-over-year and the ninth-largest volume on record. Export value was also the ninth largest at $724 million, up 18 percent from a year ago. These results capped a strong first quarter for U.S. pork as exports reached 716,691 metric tons, up 14 percent from a year ago, valued at $1.96 billion. Beef exports totaled 120,495 metric tons in March, down five percent from a year ago. Export value fell 17 percent to $892.6 million, but both volume and value were the highest in five months. Through the first quarter, beef exports were down eight percent year-over-year to 326,494 metric tons, valued at $2.35 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;March exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 218 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago.

March pork exports largest in nearly two years; Beef exports show signs of rebound

America’s beef cow herd hasn’t been this small since 1962. Drought and the high cost of feed forced producers to cut their herd sizes instead of keeping animals for breeding. 

Livestock producers who fatten cattle suddenly have leverage over meatpackers as they negotiate cattle prices with organizations like Tyson Foods, JBS, and Cargill. 

U.S. News says meat processors are assessing the future of consumer demand should beef prices rise, along with cattle supplies and margins, to determine how many animals to slaughter in the months ahead. 

Cargill says it expects cattle prices will rise further and beef prices to rise as well. “The unknown factor is demand: how much will consumers be willing to pay,” says Tom Windish of Cargill. 

The amount of money that meatpackers make buying cattle and converting them to meat dropped under $40 per head in April. That’s after reaching over $700 a head in May 2020.

America’s beef cow herd hasn’t been this small since 1962. Drought and the high cost of feed forced producers to cut their herd sizes instead of keeping animals for breeding. Livestock producers who fatten cattle suddenly have leverage over meatpackers as they negotiate cattle prices with organizations like Tyson Foods, JBS, and Cargill. U.S. News says meat processors are assessing the future of consumer demand should beef prices rise, along with cattle supplies and margins, to determine how many animals to slaughter in the months ahead. Cargill says it expects cattle prices will rise further and beef prices to rise as well. “The unknown factor is demand: how much will consumers be willing to pay,” says Tom Windish of Cargill. The amount of money that meatpackers make buying cattle and converting them to meat dropped under $40 per head in April. That’s after reaching over $700 a head in May 2020.

Smaller U.S. Cattle Herd squeezing meatpacker profits

The Natural Resources Conservation Service will hire team members over the next few years to help implement the $19.5 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act for conservation programs. 

The NRCS announced new jobs are opening up for soil conservationists. 

This is part of a broader effort by the agency to help producers develop conservation plans and implement conservation practices, including critical climate-smart practices. 

“The Inflation Reduction Act represents the single largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history, and the NRCS programs are an important part of our efforts,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. 

“To help agricultural producers invest in conservation on their farms, ranches, and working forests, we need to grow our team that delivers conservation programs.” 

The announcements are currently open and close on May 15, 2023. Interested candidates can find more information and apply for the job at USAjobs.gov.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service will hire team members over the next few years to help implement the $19.5 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act for conservation programs. The NRCS announced new jobs are opening up for soil conservationists. This is part of a broader effort by the agency to help producers develop conservation plans and implement conservation practices, including critical climate-smart practices. “The Inflation Reduction Act represents the single largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history, and the NRCS programs are an important part of our efforts,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. “To help agricultural producers invest in conservation on their farms, ranches, and working forests, we need to grow our team that delivers conservation programs.” The announcements are currently open and close on May 15, 2023. Interested candidates can find more information and apply for the job at USAjobs.gov.

NRCS opens up soil conservationist positions

Last week, Oklahoma Republican Representative Josh Brecheen, himself a fourth-generation rancher, introduced the Deregulation Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen Wheelers Act. 

The bill would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from implementing any rule or regulation requiring vehicles over 26,000 pounds that are engaged in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed-limiting device set to a maximum speed. 

In 2022, the FMSCA issued a notice of intent that it was considering rules requiring speed-limiting devices for certain large commercial vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;USCA Transportation Committee Chair Steve Hilker says their members are responsible for safely transporting millions of animals. 

Livestock haulers must take into consideration the welfare of their cargo, which means avoiding rough road conditions, adjusting speed, and being more aware of their surroundings to prevent animal injuries,” says Hilker.&nbsp;&nbsp;“USCA is opposed to any federal mandate that limits a driver’s autonomy over their own truck and trailer.” &nbsp;

Last week, Oklahoma Republican Representative Josh Brecheen, himself a fourth-generation rancher, introduced the Deregulation Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen Wheelers Act. The bill would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from implementing any rule or regulation requiring vehicles over 26,000 pounds that are engaged in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed-limiting device set to a maximum speed. In 2022, the FMSCA issued a notice of intent that it was considering rules requiring speed-limiting devices for certain large commercial vehicles.&nbsp;&nbsp;USCA Transportation Committee Chair Steve Hilker says their members are responsible for safely transporting millions of animals. Livestock haulers must take into consideration the welfare of their cargo, which means avoiding rough road conditions, adjusting speed, and being more aware of their surroundings to prevent animal injuries,” says Hilker.&nbsp;&nbsp;“USCA is opposed to any federal mandate that limits a driver’s autonomy over their own truck and trailer.” &nbsp;

USCA applauds introduction of the DRIVE Act

Eight Michigan Representatives entered into a campaign to reverse Ford’s decision to remove AM radio from most new models in 2024. 

The eight reps sent a letter to Ford’s board of directors making a case to keep the legacy band in cars. 

“Not only is AM still widely listened to for entertainment purposes, especially in rural areas, but it is vitally important for emergency services in times of trouble or natural disaster,” the letter says. 

“Removing AM capability from future vehicles could jeopardize the safety and livelihood of millions of your customers.” 

Michigan Rep David Prestin says that Ford’s decision represents “a lack of vision or thought towards national security, our ability to communicate on the most basic level in the future for the unknown things we may have to face. 

I just find it reckless.” He also points out that AM radio is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System.

Eight Michigan Representatives entered into a campaign to reverse Ford’s decision to remove AM radio from most new models in 2024. The eight reps sent a letter to Ford’s board of directors making a case to keep the legacy band in cars. “Not only is AM still widely listened to for entertainment purposes, especially in rural areas, but it is vitally important for emergency services in times of trouble or natural disaster,” the letter says. “Removing AM capability from future vehicles could jeopardize the safety and livelihood of millions of your customers.” Michigan Rep David Prestin says that Ford’s decision represents “a lack of vision or thought towards national security, our ability to communicate on the most basic level in the future for the unknown things we may have to face. I just find it reckless.” He also points out that AM radio is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System.

Michigan Reps jump into AM radio discussion

A local Missouri news outlet says that Smithfield Foods plans to close 37 sow farms. 

An employee who requested anonymity said the closures were to begin on May 1. 

Smithfield Foods didn’t confirm the story or offer any more details regarding the closures when National Hog Farmer asked for clarification. 

“We’re always taking steps to enhance our business for consistently strong performance during favorable and unfavorable market conditions,” says Jim Monroe, vice president for corporate affairs with Smithfield. 

In April, China’s WH Group informed shareholders and potential investors that it was expecting a 56 percent drop in its first quarter 2023 profit outlook, down from $395 million during the same time last year. 

“Hog raising costs remain elevated while pork prices have been adversely impacted by softer consumer demand,” Smithfield says. The company also says the drop was mainly attributable to the challenging market conditions in the U.S. pork segment.

A local Missouri news outlet says that Smithfield Foods plans to close 37 sow farms. An employee who requested anonymity said the closures were to begin on May 1. Smithfield Foods didn’t confirm the story or offer any more details regarding the closures when National Hog Farmer asked for clarification. “We’re always taking steps to enhance our business for consistently strong performance during favorable and unfavorable market conditions,” says Jim Monroe, vice president for corporate affairs with Smithfield. In April, China’s WH Group informed shareholders and potential investors that it was expecting a 56 percent drop in its first quarter 2023 profit outlook, down from $395 million during the same time last year. “Hog raising costs remain elevated while pork prices have been adversely impacted by softer consumer demand,” Smithfield says. The company also says the drop was mainly attributable to the challenging market conditions in the U.S. pork segment.

Smithfield reportedly closing 37 sow farms in Missouri

The USDA recently announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers, and the National Farmers Union is pleased with the move. 

“This is the kind of capacity and investment that we need to make meaningful improvements in our food system,” says NFU President Rob Larew. 

“Providing local and regional access to processing and distribution is one avenue to fight back against the rampant consolidation in the agriculture and food sector.” 

The new USDA Regional Food Centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers, and other food businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. 

“This move provides support for farmers and ranchers to market their products in their own communities, and keeping those resources local is a win for everyone,” Larew says. “This will build resiliency in the food supply and vitality in our rural and agricultural economy.”

The USDA recently announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers, and the National Farmers Union is pleased with the move. “This is the kind of capacity and investment that we need to make meaningful improvements in our food system,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “Providing local and regional access to processing and distribution is one avenue to fight back against the rampant consolidation in the agriculture and food sector.” The new USDA Regional Food Centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers, and other food businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. “This move provides support for farmers and ranchers to market their products in their own communities, and keeping those resources local is a win for everyone,” Larew says. “This will build resiliency in the food supply and vitality in our rural and agricultural economy.”

NFU appreciates USDA funding to strengthen Food Supply Chain Infrastructure

With bold ambitions to operate 10,000 restaurants in the coming years, Taco Bell acknowledges its responsibility to balance global expansion with intentional impact. 

Taco Bell is now partnering with its long-time supplier Cargill and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to implement conservation and regenerative agriculture practices across cattle grazing lands. 

The partnership is part of Taco Bell's parent company Yum! Brands' efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50 percent by 2030. 

The partnership will support beef producers with technical and financial tools to expand their regenerative ranching practices, from conserving grassland ecosystems to improving river water quality and biodiversity. 

The commitment from Cargill and Taco Bell will allocate $2 million and will leverage up to $2 million in federal funds for a combined total of $4 million in new grants over the next four years. 

Taco Bell estimates the partnership will conserve and restore tens of thousands of acres and sequester up to 44,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year in 2030.

With bold ambitions to operate 10,000 restaurants in the coming years, Taco Bell acknowledges its responsibility to balance global expansion with intentional impact. Taco Bell is now partnering with its long-time supplier Cargill and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to implement conservation and regenerative agriculture practices across cattle grazing lands. The partnership is part of Taco Bell's parent company Yum! Brands' efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50 percent by 2030. The partnership will support beef producers with technical and financial tools to expand their regenerative ranching practices, from conserving grassland ecosystems to improving river water quality and biodiversity. The commitment from Cargill and Taco Bell will allocate $2 million and will leverage up to $2 million in federal funds for a combined total of $4 million in new grants over the next four years. Taco Bell estimates the partnership will conserve and restore tens of thousands of acres and sequester up to 44,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year in 2030.Courtesy of NAFB

Cargill, Taco Bell, Fish and Wildlife Foundation, announce partnership

Legislation introduced in the House and Senate Wednesday seeks to help address America's shortage of Technical Service Providers at the Department of Agriculture. 

Technical Service Providers help producers deploy and manage conservation programs through one-on-one assistance. 

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby recently projected his agency would need to hire between 3,000 and 4,000 employees to meet demand for technical assistance. 

Specifically, the bill would help build the workforce by cutting red tape, streamlining Technical Service Provider certification requirements, and ensuring they are paid the market rate. Representative Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat from Virginia, and Senator Mike Braun, a Republican from Indiana, lead the effort. 

Spanberger says, “This massive workforce issue is having real effects on the ground — and it’s slowing down the ability of producers to make smart management plans for their land.” Braun adds, “Our nation’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in conservation, so it is important that they have access to Technical Service Providers.”

Legislation introduced in the House and Senate Wednesday seeks to help address America's shortage of Technical Service Providers at the Department of Agriculture. Technical Service Providers help producers deploy and manage conservation programs through one-on-one assistance. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby recently projected his agency would need to hire between 3,000 and 4,000 employees to meet demand for technical assistance. Specifically, the bill would help build the workforce by cutting red tape, streamlining Technical Service Provider certification requirements, and ensuring they are paid the market rate. Representative Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat from Virginia, and Senator Mike Braun, a Republican from Indiana, lead the effort. Spanberger says, “This massive workforce issue is having real effects on the ground — and it’s slowing down the ability of producers to make smart management plans for their land.” Braun adds, “Our nation’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in conservation, so it is important that they have access to Technical Service Providers.”

Legislation seeks to increase USDA Technical Service Providers

The 2023 Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows have launched four free Applied Digital Skills lessons dedicated to helping students learn about food, fuel and fiber. 

The lessons were developed with support from Grow with Google to make digital skills and agricultural literacy more accessible to students across the country, with a focus on rural classrooms. 

The lessons are part of the Agriculture and Rural Communities Collection, available for free to educators across the United States. 

Foundation for Agriculture executive director Daniel Meloy says, “Whether you’re a teacher in a rural, urban or suburban classroom, these lessons can be used to teach a broad variety of technical skills while fostering understanding of agriculture.” 

The lessons were developed over the course of an eight-month&nbsp;fellowship. As part of the program, each Fellow will receive a stipend and Chromebooks for their classroom. For more information, visit the Farm Bureau Foundation website, agfoundation.org.

The 2023 Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows have launched four free Applied Digital Skills lessons dedicated to helping students learn about food, fuel and fiber. The lessons were developed with support from Grow with Google to make digital skills and agricultural literacy more accessible to students across the country, with a focus on rural classrooms. The lessons are part of the Agriculture and Rural Communities Collection, available for free to educators across the United States. Foundation for Agriculture executive director Daniel Meloy says, “Whether you’re a teacher in a rural, urban or suburban classroom, these lessons can be used to teach a broad variety of technical skills while fostering understanding of agriculture.” The lessons were developed over the course of an eight-month&nbsp;fellowship. As part of the program, each Fellow will receive a stipend and Chromebooks for their classroom. For more information, visit the Farm Bureau Foundation website, agfoundation.org.Courtesy of NAFB

Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows launch free digital skills and ag literacy lessons

During a Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing Tuesday, a sorghum farmer told lawmakers farmers need a stronger farm safety net. 

National Sorghum Producers' Past&nbsp;Chairman, Kody Carson of Texas told lawmakers, "Right now, the farm safety net is not adequate." 

Carson also reaffirmed support for crop insurance, adding, "the tool has been absolutely critical in helping us manage the ongoing drought conditions decimating the Sorghum Belt." 

Meanwhile, American Soybean Association Secretary Caleb Ragland of Kentucky called crop insurance the most effective and important component of farm policy for soybean farmers. 

Ragland says that without crop insurance, “the risk would be more than many farmers and lenders could stand—it certainly would be for me,” while calling for improvements to the Title I farm safety net for soybeans. 

And National Corn Growers Association First Vice President Harold Wolle told the committee NCGA supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance coverage. Wolle adds, “The individual costs of purchasing coverage can discourage higher levels of coverage.”

During a Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing Tuesday, a sorghum farmer told lawmakers farmers need a stronger farm safety net. National Sorghum Producers' Past&nbsp;Chairman, Kody Carson of Texas told lawmakers, "Right now, the farm safety net is not adequate." Carson also reaffirmed support for crop insurance, adding, "the tool has been absolutely critical in helping us manage the ongoing drought conditions decimating the Sorghum Belt." Meanwhile, American Soybean Association Secretary Caleb Ragland of Kentucky called crop insurance the most effective and important component of farm policy for soybean farmers. Ragland says that without crop insurance, “the risk would be more than many farmers and lenders could stand—it certainly would be for me,” while calling for improvements to the Title I farm safety net for soybeans. And National Corn Growers Association First Vice President Harold Wolle told the committee NCGA supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance coverage. Wolle adds, “The individual costs of purchasing coverage can discourage higher levels of coverage.”Courtesy of NAFB

Farm Bill Hearing: Farmers need a stronger safety net

The Department of Agriculture this week announced nearly $130 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers facing financial risk. 

The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Borrowers who received the automatic payments include Farm Service Agency direct loan borrowers whose interest exceeded principle owed on outstanding debts, borrowers who had a balance up to 60 days past due as of September 30, 2022, and borrowers with a recent restructure between February 28, 2020, through March 27, 2023, or who had accepted an offer to restructure on or before March 27, 2023, but had not yet closed that restructure. 

FSA is accepting distressed borrower assistance requests from direct loan borrowers who missed a recent installment or cannot make their next scheduled installment. USDA will continue to update borrowers and the public about new eligibility criteria.

The Department of Agriculture this week announced nearly $130 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Borrowers who received the automatic payments include Farm Service Agency direct loan borrowers whose interest exceeded principle owed on outstanding debts, borrowers who had a balance up to 60 days past due as of September 30, 2022, and borrowers with a recent restructure between February 28, 2020, through March 27, 2023, or who had accepted an offer to restructure on or before March 27, 2023, but had not yet closed that restructure. FSA is accepting distressed borrower assistance requests from direct loan borrowers who missed a recent installment or cannot make their next scheduled installment. USDA will continue to update borrowers and the public about new eligibility criteria.Courtesy of NAFB

USDA providing $130 million to farmers facing financial risk

Farmer sentiment improved modestly in April as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reversed a two-month decline, up six points to 123. 

The Current Conditions Index rose three points to 129, while the Index of Future Expectations rose seven points to 120. 

More producers expect prime interest rates to either hold steady or possibly decline during the next 12 months than felt that way earlier in the year. 

Perspectives on farmland values shifted somewhat in April, with fewer producers expecting values to decline in the upcoming year and more producers looking for values to rise. 

When asked about the possibility of a new Farm Bill being passed by Congress in 2023, responses were mixed, with 40 percent of producers saying that passage was at least somewhat likely, while nearly 30 percent of respondents think that passage is at least somewhat unlikely. 

Meanwhile, 40 percent of respondents considered crop insurance the most important Farm Bill title, followed by commodity programs and conservation.

Farmer sentiment improved modestly in April as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reversed a two-month decline, up six points to 123. The Current Conditions Index rose three points to 129, while the Index of Future Expectations rose seven points to 120. More producers expect prime interest rates to either hold steady or possibly decline during the next 12 months than felt that way earlier in the year. Perspectives on farmland values shifted somewhat in April, with fewer producers expecting values to decline in the upcoming year and more producers looking for values to rise. When asked about the possibility of a new Farm Bill being passed by Congress in 2023, responses were mixed, with 40 percent of producers saying that passage was at least somewhat likely, while nearly 30 percent of respondents think that passage is at least somewhat unlikely. Meanwhile, 40 percent of respondents considered crop insurance the most important Farm Bill title, followed by commodity programs and conservation.Courtesy of NAFB

Ag Economy Barometer: Farmer sentiment improves

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows farm sector debt tied to real estate is expected to be at a record high of $375.9 billion in 2023. 

Farm sector real estate debt has been increasing continuously since 2009 and is expected to reach an amount that is 87.5 percent higher in 2023 compared with 2009 in inflation-adjusted dollars. 

Real estate debt now far outpaces debt that is not secured by a mortgage. 

Historically, real estate debt and non-real estate debt have trended similarly, but they have diverged in recent years. Non-real estate debt showed an 11.9-percent year-to-year increase in 2014 in inflation-adjusted dollars but declined after 2017. 

Meanwhile, there has been a continuous increase in real estate debt since 2009. In 2023, real estate debt is expected to be 33.0 percent higher than the ten-year average, while non-real estate debt is expected to be 10.2 percent lower than the ten-year average.

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows farm sector debt tied to real estate is expected to be at a record high of $375.9 billion in 2023. Farm sector real estate debt has been increasing continuously since 2009 and is expected to reach an amount that is 87.5 percent higher in 2023 compared with 2009 in inflation-adjusted dollars. Real estate debt now far outpaces debt that is not secured by a mortgage. Historically, real estate debt and non-real estate debt have trended similarly, but they have diverged in recent years. Non-real estate debt showed an 11.9-percent year-to-year increase in 2014 in inflation-adjusted dollars but declined after 2017. Meanwhile, there has been a continuous increase in real estate debt since 2009. In 2023, real estate debt is expected to be 33.0 percent higher than the ten-year average, while non-real estate debt is expected to be 10.2 percent lower than the ten-year average.

Farm sector real estate debt hits record high

The average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested for the U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report released this week was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors. 

The report is based on 430 export cargo samples collected from corn shipments undergoing federal inspection and grading processes at export terminals. 

It also provides information on grading, handling and how U.S. corn is moved and controlled through export channels. 

USGC&nbsp;Chairman&nbsp;Josh Miller says, “International importers and consumers can know that they are making a smart, informed purchase by seeing the exact benefits and characteristics of this year’s crop.” 

Average test weight found by the analysis was higher than in 2021/2022 and the five-year average, with 93.3 percent of samples at or above the minimum requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade corn, indicating overall good quality. The export cargo quality report is a companion to the USGC 2022/2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report.

The average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested for the U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report released this week was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors. The report is based on 430 export cargo samples collected from corn shipments undergoing federal inspection and grading processes at export terminals. It also provides information on grading, handling and how U.S. corn is moved and controlled through export channels. USGC&nbsp;Chairman&nbsp;Josh Miller says, “International importers and consumers can know that they are making a smart, informed purchase by seeing the exact benefits and characteristics of this year’s crop.” Average test weight found by the analysis was higher than in 2021/2022 and the five-year average, with 93.3 percent of samples at or above the minimum requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade corn, indicating overall good quality. The export cargo quality report is a companion to the USGC 2022/2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report.

USGC releases 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report

For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 6.3 cents from a week ago to $3.58 per gallon. 

The national average is up 8.2 cents from a month ago but 59.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. 

The national average diesel price fell 5.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.07 per gallon, $1.18 lower than one year ago. 

Oil prices have come under additional selling pressure alongside wholesale gasoline prices, and diesel prices have followed. The latest data shows diesel prices fell to their lowest level in over 13 months as demand remains weak due to concerns over the economy. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “With refinery maintenance wrapping up, we should see supplies start to build in the weeks ahead, just in time for the summer driving season, potentially putting more downward pressure on prices.”

For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 6.3 cents from a week ago to $3.58 per gallon. The national average is up 8.2 cents from a month ago but 59.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.07 per gallon, $1.18 lower than one year ago. Oil prices have come under additional selling pressure alongside wholesale gasoline prices, and diesel prices have followed. The latest data shows diesel prices fell to their lowest level in over 13 months as demand remains weak due to concerns over the economy. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “With refinery maintenance wrapping up, we should see supplies start to build in the weeks ahead, just in time for the summer driving season, potentially putting more downward pressure on prices.”

Fuel prices slide again: diesel reaches 13-month low

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 fuel to be sold during the summer driving season. 

Reaction from some of America’s leading ag and renewable fuel organizations has been positive. 

“U.S. gas inventories are even tighter than they were last year, and the war in Ukraine continues wreaking havoc on global fuel supplies,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. 

“We thank the EPA for taking this step.” Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “This is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this summer.” 

Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says, “Today’s announcement from EPA is good news for farmers and consumers heading into the summer travel season. Drivers will see increased choice and competition while farmers will see more opportunities for their bottom line.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 fuel to be sold during the summer driving season. Reaction from some of America’s leading ag and renewable fuel organizations has been positive. “U.S. gas inventories are even tighter than they were last year, and the war in Ukraine continues wreaking havoc on global fuel supplies,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “We thank the EPA for taking this step.” Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “This is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this summer.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says, “Today’s announcement from EPA is good news for farmers and consumers heading into the summer travel season. Drivers will see increased choice and competition while farmers will see more opportunities for their bottom line.”