The union representing railroad conductors rejected a White House-brokered deal and a strike could start as soon as December 9. 

The latest rejection comes from the union representing 28,000 conductors, brakemen, and yardmen. 

NPR says the total number of unions rejecting the agreement is four with a combined membership of close to 60,000 workers. 

Eight other unions ratified the deal but could get pulled back into the dispute. NPR says that’s because if one union decides to strike, all of the unions will honor the picket lines. 

The National Grain and Feed Association, the Soy Transportation Coalition, the National Milk Producers Federation, and many other agricultural groups are asking Congress to step in and prevent a shutdown, which would be catastrophic for the U.S. economy. 

The USDA says railroads carry 29 percent of the nation’s soybeans, 33 percent of the corn, and 60 percent of U.S. wheat to export terminals.&nbsp;

The union representing railroad conductors rejected a White House-brokered deal and a strike could start as soon as December 9. The latest rejection comes from the union representing 28,000 conductors, brakemen, and yardmen. NPR says the total number of unions rejecting the agreement is four with a combined membership of close to 60,000 workers. Eight other unions ratified the deal but could get pulled back into the dispute. NPR says that’s because if one union decides to strike, all of the unions will honor the picket lines. The National Grain and Feed Association, the Soy Transportation Coalition, the National Milk Producers Federation, and many other agricultural groups are asking Congress to step in and prevent a shutdown, which would be catastrophic for the U.S. economy. The USDA says railroads carry 29 percent of the nation’s soybeans, 33 percent of the corn, and 60 percent of U.S. wheat to export terminals.&nbsp;

Railroad Conductors Union rejects settlement proposal

More than 30 agribusinesses and farm organizations will visit Madrid, Spain, from November 29 through December 2 during an upcoming USDA trade mission. 

Delegation members will engage directly with potential buyers from Spain and Portugal and receive in-depth market briefs from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts and participate in site visits. 

Spain is the third-largest EU destination for U.S. agricultural products and Portugal is number 11. 

“One of the key goals of this USDA trade mission is to highlight both our commonalities and what truly sets U.S. foods and ingredients apart from our competitors in the region,” says FAS Associate Administrator Clay Hamilton. 

“America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers have a compelling story to tell about the quality and sustainability of their agricultural production, and we are confident that story will resonate with buyers, result in many sales, and provide a boost to the agriculture industry back home.” &nbsp;

More than 30 agribusinesses and farm organizations will visit Madrid, Spain, from November 29 through December 2 during an upcoming USDA trade mission. Delegation members will engage directly with potential buyers from Spain and Portugal and receive in-depth market briefs from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts and participate in site visits. Spain is the third-largest EU destination for U.S. agricultural products and Portugal is number 11. “One of the key goals of this USDA trade mission is to highlight both our commonalities and what truly sets U.S. foods and ingredients apart from our competitors in the region,” says FAS Associate Administrator Clay Hamilton. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers have a compelling story to tell about the quality and sustainability of their agricultural production, and we are confident that story will resonate with buyers, result in many sales, and provide a boost to the agriculture industry back home.” &nbsp;

USDA’s trade mission to Spain seeks to boost opportunities

The USDA mailed survey codes to all known U.S. ag producers with the invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at agcounts.usda.gov. 

The ag census is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. 

By completing the survey, producers across the nation can tell their stories and help generate impactful policies to better serve them and future ag producers. 

Farmers of all sizes, urban and rural, that produced and sold $1,000 or more of products, or normally would have in 2022, are included in the Census. The Census will get mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in December. 

Producers only have to respond once, either online or by mail. Responses are due on February 6, 2023. “The Census of Agriculture is a powerful voice for American agriculture,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The information is an important influence on future ag policy.”

The USDA mailed survey codes to all known U.S. ag producers with the invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at agcounts.usda.gov. The ag census is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. By completing the survey, producers across the nation can tell their stories and help generate impactful policies to better serve them and future ag producers. Farmers of all sizes, urban and rural, that produced and sold $1,000 or more of products, or normally would have in 2022, are included in the Census. The Census will get mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in December. Producers only have to respond once, either online or by mail. Responses are due on February 6, 2023. “The Census of Agriculture is a powerful voice for American agriculture,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The information is an important influence on future ag policy.”

USDA invites producers to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture

Thanksgiving is an important holiday for spending time with family and friends. Farm Bureau’s 37th annual Thanksgiving Dinner survey provides a look at the cost of this year’s classic feast for 10. 

This year’s price tag is $64.05, up more than ten dollars from last year’s average of $53.31. It still works out to under $6.50 per person. 

The centerpiece is the turkey, which costs more than last year at $28.96 for a 16-pound bird. It’s 21 percent higher than last year. 

Other ingredients in the meal include stuffing mix, dinner rolls, milk, sweet potatoes, a veggie tray, pie crusts, and several others. The only traditional ingredient that’s cheaper than last year is a bag of fresh cranberries at $2.57, 14 percent cheaper than last year. 

American Farm Bureau Chief Economist Roger Cryan said factors driving the prices higher include general inflation, supply chain challenges, and the war in Ukraine.

Thanksgiving is an important holiday for spending time with family and friends. Farm Bureau’s 37th annual Thanksgiving Dinner survey provides a look at the cost of this year’s classic feast for 10. This year’s price tag is $64.05, up more than ten dollars from last year’s average of $53.31. It still works out to under $6.50 per person. The centerpiece is the turkey, which costs more than last year at $28.96 for a 16-pound bird. It’s 21 percent higher than last year. Other ingredients in the meal include stuffing mix, dinner rolls, milk, sweet potatoes, a veggie tray, pie crusts, and several others. The only traditional ingredient that’s cheaper than last year is a bag of fresh cranberries at $2.57, 14 percent cheaper than last year. American Farm Bureau Chief Economist Roger Cryan said factors driving the prices higher include general inflation, supply chain challenges, and the war in Ukraine.

Farm Bureau survey shows Thanksgiving dinner cost up 20 percent

The Black Sea Grain Export Deal, due to expire last Saturday, has been extended for another 120 days. 

Reuters says Moscow wants its own demands in the deal to get more fully addressed. 

The agreement protects a sea transit corridor and was intended to help alleviate a global food shortage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukraine, a major producer of grains and oilseeds, has three ports in Ukraine currently shipping grain. 

UN’s Secretary General says they welcome the agreement by all parties to continue the Black Sea grain initiative to facilitate the safe navigation of grain exports, foodstuffs, and fertilizers from Ukraine. 

Russian exports of ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea haven’t been agreed to as part of the renewal. However, Russia is continuing its efforts to resume those exports unimpeded by Western sanctions. 

The 120-day extension wasn’t the one-year deal the United Nations and Ukraine wanted. Russia says the &nbsp;duration seems “justified.”

The Black Sea Grain Export Deal, due to expire last Saturday, has been extended for another 120 days. Reuters says Moscow wants its own demands in the deal to get more fully addressed. The agreement protects a sea transit corridor and was intended to help alleviate a global food shortage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukraine, a major producer of grains and oilseeds, has three ports in Ukraine currently shipping grain. UN’s Secretary General says they welcome the agreement by all parties to continue the Black Sea grain initiative to facilitate the safe navigation of grain exports, foodstuffs, and fertilizers from Ukraine. Russian exports of ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea haven’t been agreed to as part of the renewal. However, Russia is continuing its efforts to resume those exports unimpeded by Western sanctions. The 120-day extension wasn’t the one-year deal the United Nations and Ukraine wanted. Russia says the &nbsp;duration seems “justified.”

Black Sea Grain Export Deal extended, Russia wants more

The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index fell below growth-neutral for the sixth-consecutive month. 

On a scale of one to 100, 50 represents growth neutral. The Economic Confidence Index plummeted to its lowest level since 2020. 

Almost 31 percent of bank CEOs in the survey area recommend that the Fed cease raising interest rates. 

Despite the weaker rural outlook, only 14 percent of the CEOs say their bank had increased financial commitments on farm loans. Farmland demand remains strong as the Farmland Price index climbed above 50 for the 26th month in a row. 

Almost 61 percent of bank CEOs expect these high farmland prices to plateau, while 22 percent say those land prices will likely decline during the period. 

“The rural Mainstreet economy is now experiencing a downturn in economic activity,” says Dr. Ernie Goss. “Last month, almost one in four bankers said the economy was already in a recession.”

The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index fell below growth-neutral for the sixth-consecutive month. On a scale of one to 100, 50 represents growth neutral. The Economic Confidence Index plummeted to its lowest level since 2020. Almost 31 percent of bank CEOs in the survey area recommend that the Fed cease raising interest rates. Despite the weaker rural outlook, only 14 percent of the CEOs say their bank had increased financial commitments on farm loans. Farmland demand remains strong as the Farmland Price index climbed above 50 for the 26th month in a row. Almost 61 percent of bank CEOs expect these high farmland prices to plateau, while 22 percent say those land prices will likely decline during the period. “The rural Mainstreet economy is now experiencing a downturn in economic activity,” says Dr. Ernie Goss. “Last month, almost one in four bankers said the economy was already in a recession.”

Rural Mainstreet Economy shrinks for six straight months

People shopping for electric vehicles will see that most don’t have AM radio, and it’s a move not sitting well with rural farm broadcasters. 

Nathan Simington is a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission who spoke to broadcasters at the National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s annual convention. 

He brought a unique perspective to the topic after growing up on a farm in Canada. 

“AM radio is an indispensable source of information for more than three million farmers in the U.S.,” Simington says. “To those who say AM is a dead technology, 75 percent of farmers listen to the radio five days per week.” 

For those who don’t know, AM radio is also the “essential spine” of the Emergency Alert System. “More importantly, farm broadcasters, especially those on AM, are a trusted source of information,” Simington adds. “Forget about oil and gas. These days, trust is the most important commodity out there.”

People shopping for electric vehicles will see that most don’t have AM radio, and it’s a move not sitting well with rural farm broadcasters. Nathan Simington is a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission who spoke to broadcasters at the National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s annual convention. He brought a unique perspective to the topic after growing up on a farm in Canada. “AM radio is an indispensable source of information for more than three million farmers in the U.S.,” Simington says. “To those who say AM is a dead technology, 75 percent of farmers listen to the radio five days per week.” For those who don’t know, AM radio is also the “essential spine” of the Emergency Alert System. “More importantly, farm broadcasters, especially those on AM, are a trusted source of information,” Simington adds. “Forget about oil and gas. These days, trust is the most important commodity out there.”

Electric vehicles won’t have AM radios

The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to lawmakers asking for support of domestic infant formula production as the shortfalls that emptied store shelves of formula have eased. 

Given the improving situation, tariff waivers that could discourage the production of a safe, secure domestic infant formula supply should be allowed to expire at the end of this year as scheduled. 

The milk producers sent their letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. 

“Given the temporary shortfall that gripped American families in need of formula earlier this year has abated, we urge Congress to ensure that the unique, unilateral tariff benefits granted to our trading partners under the Formula Act and the Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act end as scheduled at the close of the year,” the letter says. “We request opposition to efforts to extend the benefits.”

The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to lawmakers asking for support of domestic infant formula production as the shortfalls that emptied store shelves of formula have eased. Given the improving situation, tariff waivers that could discourage the production of a safe, secure domestic infant formula supply should be allowed to expire at the end of this year as scheduled. The milk producers sent their letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. “Given the temporary shortfall that gripped American families in need of formula earlier this year has abated, we urge Congress to ensure that the unique, unilateral tariff benefits granted to our trading partners under the Formula Act and the Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act end as scheduled at the close of the year,” the letter says. “We request opposition to efforts to extend the benefits.”

Milk producers ask for support of domestic formula production

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council announced their opposition to listing the Lesser Prairie Chicken under the Endangered Species Act after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released a final rule. 

“Over and over, the science has proven that healthy, diverse rangelands, the exact kind of landscape maintained by livestock grazing, are where the lesser prairie chicken thrives,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. 

“Cattle ranchers’ efforts to conserve these acres are absolutely critical to the survival of the species.” 

She also says they’re deeply disappointed by the Fish and Wildlife decision to impose redundant and punitive restrictions on the very same people they have to thank for the lesser prairie chicken’s continued existence on the range. 

The Service is also establishing a rule allowing them to appoint third parties, including environmental activist groups, as the grazing authorities in the range of the lesser prairie chicken.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council announced their opposition to listing the Lesser Prairie Chicken under the Endangered Species Act after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released a final rule. “Over and over, the science has proven that healthy, diverse rangelands, the exact kind of landscape maintained by livestock grazing, are where the lesser prairie chicken thrives,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Cattle ranchers’ efforts to conserve these acres are absolutely critical to the survival of the species.” She also says they’re deeply disappointed by the Fish and Wildlife decision to impose redundant and punitive restrictions on the very same people they have to thank for the lesser prairie chicken’s continued existence on the range. The Service is also establishing a rule allowing them to appoint third parties, including environmental activist groups, as the grazing authorities in the range of the lesser prairie chicken.

NCBA, PLC oppose ESA listing of Lesser Prairie Chicken

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to its lowest level in more than a month, and inventories dropped during the week ending on November 11. 

The newest EIA report says the production fell to an average of 1.011 million barrels a day. That’s down from 1.051 million barrels during the prior week and the lowest level since October. In the Midwest, the largest-producing region in the U.S., production dropped to 954,000 barrels a day from 992,000 barrels the week before. That’s also the lowest level for the Midwest in over a month. 

Gulf Coast production declined to an average of 23,000 barrels a day, a 1,000-barrel-a-day drop from the prior week. Rocky Mountain output fell to 13,000 barrels a day, the lowest output since September 23. 

The East Coast saw the only production increase at 13,000 barrels a day. Inventories through November 11 fell to 21.298 million barrels.

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to its lowest level in more than a month, and inventories dropped during the week ending on November 11. The newest EIA report says the production fell to an average of 1.011 million barrels a day. That’s down from 1.051 million barrels during the prior week and the lowest level since October. In the Midwest, the largest-producing region in the U.S., production dropped to 954,000 barrels a day from 992,000 barrels the week before. That’s also the lowest level for the Midwest in over a month. Gulf Coast production declined to an average of 23,000 barrels a day, a 1,000-barrel-a-day drop from the prior week. Rocky Mountain output fell to 13,000 barrels a day, the lowest output since September 23. The East Coast saw the only production increase at 13,000 barrels a day. Inventories through November 11 fell to 21.298 million barrels.

Ethanol production hits lowest level in a month

USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service announced proposed changes to the foods prescribed to participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC. 

These science-based revisions incorporate recommendations from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. “USDA is committed to advancing maternal and child health through WIC, helping mothers, babies, and young kids thrive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These proposed changes will strengthen WIC, which is already an incredible program, by ensuring it provides foods that reflect the latest nutrition science to support healthy eating and bright futures.” 

The changes will increase the current level of assistance while providing WIC state agencies with more flexibility to tailor or accommodate personal and cultural food preferences and special dietary needs and increase variety and choice for WIC participants, making the program more appealing for current and potential participants.

USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service announced proposed changes to the foods prescribed to participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC. These science-based revisions incorporate recommendations from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. “USDA is committed to advancing maternal and child health through WIC, helping mothers, babies, and young kids thrive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These proposed changes will strengthen WIC, which is already an incredible program, by ensuring it provides foods that reflect the latest nutrition science to support healthy eating and bright futures.” The changes will increase the current level of assistance while providing WIC state agencies with more flexibility to tailor or accommodate personal and cultural food preferences and special dietary needs and increase variety and choice for WIC participants, making the program more appealing for current and potential participants.

USDA proposes science-driven updates to WIC

A new Energy Information Administration report clearly shows higher ethanol blends helped moderate fuel prices after the Ukraine invasion. The report also says the ethanol blend rates hit a record summer average of 10.5 percent. 

“Fuel ethanol’s price discount to gasoline was one factor that led to the higher summer blend rate in 2022,” the report says. “Although ethanol prices were higher in 2022, they were still low relative to gas prices that were at the highest level since 2014. “The new analysis shows that American drivers gravitated toward lower-cost E15 and E85 this summer as war in Ukraine drove fuel prices to record highs,” says Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper.

 “The report also shows that President Biden made the right call by issuing emergency waivers to allow the continued sales of E15 through the summer.” RFA also says the report shows the importance of year-round access to E15.

A new Energy Information Administration report clearly shows higher ethanol blends helped moderate fuel prices after the Ukraine invasion. The report also says the ethanol blend rates hit a record summer average of 10.5 percent. “Fuel ethanol’s price discount to gasoline was one factor that led to the higher summer blend rate in 2022,” the report says. “Although ethanol prices were higher in 2022, they were still low relative to gas prices that were at the highest level since 2014. “The new analysis shows that American drivers gravitated toward lower-cost E15 and E85 this summer as war in Ukraine drove fuel prices to record highs,” says Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “The report also shows that President Biden made the right call by issuing emergency waivers to allow the continued sales of E15 through the summer.” RFA also says the report shows the importance of year-round access to E15.

Increased ethanol blend rates lower fuel costs for drivers

John Deere announced an agreement with the U.S. Army Reserve to help service members and their families access career opportunities while transferring to civilian life. The agreement allows Deere to provide active-duty soldiers transitioning to the Army Reserves with meaningful education and skills that will make them top candidates for future employment. 

Deere says it’s honored to give back to the nation’s veterans by helping them take the skills they learned and develop them in a new career path. The agreement builds upon the Defense Department’s Skill Bridge Program, which places active-duty military members in civilian jobs for the final six months of service. 

Reserve members typically face unemployment rates two or three times the national average. The internship allows vets to get on the ground training and industry education that can help make them better candidates for open jobs. Active-duty, National Guard, or Reserve vets and spouses can go to deere.com.

John Deere announced an agreement with the U.S. Army Reserve to help service members and their families access career opportunities while transferring to civilian life. The agreement allows Deere to provide active-duty soldiers transitioning to the Army Reserves with meaningful education and skills that will make them top candidates for future employment. Deere says it’s honored to give back to the nation’s veterans by helping them take the skills they learned and develop them in a new career path. The agreement builds upon the Defense Department’s Skill Bridge Program, which places active-duty military members in civilian jobs for the final six months of service. Reserve members typically face unemployment rates two or three times the national average. The internship allows vets to get on the ground training and industry education that can help make them better candidates for open jobs. Active-duty, National Guard, or Reserve vets and spouses can go to deere.com.

Helping veterans find new careers

As Americans prepare for Thanksgiving, it’s probably not surprising that the number of available turkeys is lower than last year. Only 49.6 million pounds of turkeys remained in cold storage as of Monday, which a USDA report says is down 18 percent week-to-week. 

At the end of August, when supplies are usually at their peak, they totaled more than 114 million pounds. An updated USDA report says while turkey production was expected to drop by seven percent, the amount of meat in storage rose one percent from the same point last year. 

The last month new chicks can mature enough for Thanksgiving is August, and placements rose two percent higher than the five-year-average as producers attempted to make up for lost output because of avian influenza earlier this year. Since the end of August, inventories have steadily declined. Stocks in September dropped to just over 105 million pounds, nine percent above 2021.

As Americans prepare for Thanksgiving, it’s probably not surprising that the number of available turkeys is lower than last year. Only 49.6 million pounds of turkeys remained in cold storage as of Monday, which a USDA report says is down 18 percent week-to-week. At the end of August, when supplies are usually at their peak, they totaled more than 114 million pounds. An updated USDA report says while turkey production was expected to drop by seven percent, the amount of meat in storage rose one percent from the same point last year. The last month new chicks can mature enough for Thanksgiving is August, and placements rose two percent higher than the five-year-average as producers attempted to make up for lost output because of avian influenza earlier this year. Since the end of August, inventories have steadily declined. Stocks in September dropped to just over 105 million pounds, nine percent above 2021.

Grab that turkey for Thanksgiving

Cargill’s CEO says he expects food prices to decline in 2023. Yahoo says that’s despite tight global crop stockpiles, especially in oilseeds. 

David MacLennan, Cargill CEO, says the solution to the food versus fuel debate is to boost global crop commodity production. “We don’t&nbsp;think it’s going to be an either-or dynamic,” he says. “It can be food and fuel.” MacLennan also says regenerative agricultural practices, greater yields, and more use of technology can increase output so it can meet the demand from both food and fuel sectors. 

World food prices hit a record in March after Russia invaded Ukraine and prevented exports from one of the world’s top grain producers. Prices did drop after the United Nations helped reach a grain deal that allowed ships filled with Ukrainian grain to pass unimpeded through the Black Sea. “Food shouldn’t be a weapon,” MacLellan adds. “The world depends on an interconnected food system.”

Cargill’s CEO says he expects food prices to decline in 2023. Yahoo says that’s despite tight global crop stockpiles, especially in oilseeds. David MacLennan, Cargill CEO, says the solution to the food versus fuel debate is to boost global crop commodity production. “We don’t&nbsp;think it’s going to be an either-or dynamic,” he says. “It can be food and fuel.” MacLennan also says regenerative agricultural practices, greater yields, and more use of technology can increase output so it can meet the demand from both food and fuel sectors. World food prices hit a record in March after Russia invaded Ukraine and prevented exports from one of the world’s top grain producers. Prices did drop after the United Nations helped reach a grain deal that allowed ships filled with Ukrainian grain to pass unimpeded through the Black Sea. “Food shouldn’t be a weapon,” MacLellan adds. “The world depends on an interconnected food system.”

Food prices likely to drop next year

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is planning for additional emergency relief and pandemic assistance. USDA will soon roll out phase two of the Emergency Relief Program as well as the new Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program.

 Those programs will help offset crop and revenue losses for producers. USDA is announcing the forthcoming assistance early enough to give producers time to gather documents and train the agency’s staff. “We have diligently worked to help agricultural producers bounce back from devastating natural disasters and COVID-19 through a number of programs,” Vilsack says. “These new programs are focused on filling gaps in assistance where some producers have fallen through the cracks.” 

ERP phase two will assist eligible producers who suffered&nbsp; crop losses due to wildfires, hurricanes, flood, derechos, and others. PARP will help eligible commodity producer who lost revenue in 2020 compared to previous years due to COVID-19. For more info, go to usda.gov.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is planning for additional emergency relief and pandemic assistance. USDA will soon roll out phase two of the Emergency Relief Program as well as the new Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program. Those programs will help offset crop and revenue losses for producers. USDA is announcing the forthcoming assistance early enough to give producers time to gather documents and train the agency’s staff. “We have diligently worked to help agricultural producers bounce back from devastating natural disasters and COVID-19 through a number of programs,” Vilsack says. “These new programs are focused on filling gaps in assistance where some producers have fallen through the cracks.” ERP phase two will assist eligible producers who suffered&nbsp; crop losses due to wildfires, hurricanes, flood, derechos, and others. PARP will help eligible commodity producer who lost revenue in 2020 compared to previous years due to COVID-19. For more info, go to usda.gov.

USDA announces additional emergency relief for producers

Clean Fuels America Alliance wants the Environmental Protection Agency to increase the advanced biofuels’ share of the fuel market by one billion gallons a year to reflect the rising interest in renewable diesel production. 

The recommendations would raise the federal mandate for second-generation biofuels by over 7.6 billion gallons in 2024, which amounts to a 36 percent increase from this year. “We’re seeing the production of renewable diesel coming online,” says Donnell Rehagen, Clean Fuels America CEO. “We believe the EPA has to increase the biomass-based diesel volume by 500 million gallons and the advance biofuels by one billion gallons for each of the next two years.” 

In an agreement with the biofuel industry, the EPA has a deadline on November 30 to announce the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023 and possibly for additional years. Plants with up to three billion gallons of capacity will come online in the next three years.

Clean Fuels America Alliance wants the Environmental Protection Agency to increase the advanced biofuels’ share of the fuel market by one billion gallons a year to reflect the rising interest in renewable diesel production. The recommendations would raise the federal mandate for second-generation biofuels by over 7.6 billion gallons in 2024, which amounts to a 36 percent increase from this year. “We’re seeing the production of renewable diesel coming online,” says Donnell Rehagen, Clean Fuels America CEO. “We believe the EPA has to increase the biomass-based diesel volume by 500 million gallons and the advance biofuels by one billion gallons for each of the next two years.” In an agreement with the biofuel industry, the EPA has a deadline on November 30 to announce the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023 and possibly for additional years. Plants with up to three billion gallons of capacity will come online in the next three years.

Group wants seven billion gallon biofuel law

Over 60 farm worker groups from across America are traveling to Washington this week to urge the Senate to pass the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. The United Farmworkers, the UFW Foundation, and other groups will make the trip to Washington, D.C. to lobby for the bill, which is a compromise between farm and labor leaders and supported by most farm groups. 

The Fence Post Dot Com says the House passed the bill, but Senate supporters haven’t convinced enough Republicans to support the bill to get the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster. Lobbyists for the bill worry that passing it in the next Congress would be close to impossible if Republicans wind up controlling the House. 

Farm workers from major agricultural states like Arizona, California, Washington, Georgia, and others will be lobbying elected officials. “Providing America’s agricultural workforce with legal status and stability is crucial,” says UFW President Teresa Romero.

Over 60 farm worker groups from across America are traveling to Washington this week to urge the Senate to pass the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. The United Farmworkers, the UFW Foundation, and other groups will make the trip to Washington, D.C. to lobby for the bill, which is a compromise between farm and labor leaders and supported by most farm groups. The Fence Post Dot Com says the House passed the bill, but Senate supporters haven’t convinced enough Republicans to support the bill to get the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster. Lobbyists for the bill worry that passing it in the next Congress would be close to impossible if Republicans wind up controlling the House. Farm workers from major agricultural states like Arizona, California, Washington, Georgia, and others will be lobbying elected officials. “Providing America’s agricultural workforce with legal status and stability is crucial,” says UFW President Teresa Romero.

Farm workers to lobby for immigration bill

USDA Chief Scientist Chavonda Jacobs-Young says the agency will invest nearly $24 million across 45 organizations and institutions that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers. “Investing in the professional development of our nation’s newest farmers and ranchers will help our food and agriculture sectors to flourish from the ground up,” she says. 

The investments will support a wide range of activities across a number of important topics for new farmers and ranchers, including managing capital, acquiring and managing land, and learning effective business and farming practices. The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program.

 “We recognize that beginning farmers and ranchers have unique needs for education, training, and technical assistance,” says NIFA Acting Director Dr. Dionne Toombs. “This investment will benefit a new generation of beginning farmers and ranchers across the spectrum of American agriculture. For more information, go to usda.gov.

USDA Chief Scientist Chavonda Jacobs-Young says the agency will invest nearly $24 million across 45 organizations and institutions that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers. “Investing in the professional development of our nation’s newest farmers and ranchers will help our food and agriculture sectors to flourish from the ground up,” she says. The investments will support a wide range of activities across a number of important topics for new farmers and ranchers, including managing capital, acquiring and managing land, and learning effective business and farming practices. The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. “We recognize that beginning farmers and ranchers have unique needs for education, training, and technical assistance,” says NIFA Acting Director Dr. Dionne Toombs. “This investment will benefit a new generation of beginning farmers and ranchers across the spectrum of American agriculture. For more information, go to usda.gov.

USDA provides almost $24 million for beginning farmers and ranchers

The Iowa Department of Agriculture last week announced an order canceling all live bird exhibitions at fairs and other gatherings of birds. 

The order comes as Iowa and the rest of the nation face a continued threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza. 

The order also prohibits live birds from being sold or transferred at livestock auction markets, swap meets, and exotic sales. 

The order is in place for a minimum of 30 days, and until 30 days have passed without confirmation of a new infection of HPAI in domestic poultry in the state. A similar order was announced March 23 and was lifted June 3. 

HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease affecting bird populations. HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;The virus can spread through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture last week announced an order canceling all live bird exhibitions at fairs and other gatherings of birds. The order comes as Iowa and the rest of the nation face a continued threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza. The order also prohibits live birds from being sold or transferred at livestock auction markets, swap meets, and exotic sales. The order is in place for a minimum of 30 days, and until 30 days have passed without confirmation of a new infection of HPAI in domestic poultry in the state. A similar order was announced March 23 and was lifted June 3. HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease affecting bird populations. HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;The virus can spread through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.

Iowa Department of Ag cancels live bird exhibitions

More than 300 agriculture, environment, academic, and infrastructure stakeholder groups are calling on Congress to reaffirm federal pesticide preemption on labeling and packaging. 

Failing to do so, the groups warn, could hold disastrous consequences for our food security, the environment, public health, vital infrastructure, and other uses where pesticides provide important societal benefits. 

The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act is clear that states “shall not impose or continue in effect any requirements for labeling or packaging in addition to or different from those required” by the federal government. 

However, in recent years, states have sought to impose health claim label requirements that directly contradict federal findings. In a letter to Congress, the groups call on Congress to reaffirm that states may not impose additional labeling or packaging requirements that conflict with federal findings. 

American Soybean Association President Brad Doyle says, “Farmers and other pesticide users need predictable access to these tools to protect their crops and maintain important conservation practices.

More than 300 agriculture, environment, academic, and infrastructure stakeholder groups are calling on Congress to reaffirm federal pesticide preemption on labeling and packaging. Failing to do so, the groups warn, could hold disastrous consequences for our food security, the environment, public health, vital infrastructure, and other uses where pesticides provide important societal benefits. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act is clear that states “shall not impose or continue in effect any requirements for labeling or packaging in addition to or different from those required” by the federal government. However, in recent years, states have sought to impose health claim label requirements that directly contradict federal findings. In a letter to Congress, the groups call on Congress to reaffirm that states may not impose additional labeling or packaging requirements that conflict with federal findings. American Soybean Association President Brad Doyle says, “Farmers and other pesticide users need predictable access to these tools to protect their crops and maintain important conservation practices.

Ag groups call for Congress to reaffirm Federal Pesticide Preemption

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee last week called for more federal oversight of cryptocurrency exchanges. 

The comments come as cryptocurrency exchange FTX collapsed last week, and a collapse of cryptocurrency prices. 

The Senate Agriculture Committee has jurisdiction over the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. 

Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, “Consumers continue to be harmed by the lack of transparency and accountability in this market. 

Ranking Republican from Arkansas, John Boozman, says, “The events that have transpired reinforce the clear need for greater federal oversight of the digital asset industry.” 

Boozman adds, “While our legislative work continues, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission already has the ability to regulate and prosecute fraud, manipulation and abuse. I strongly encourage them to actively exercise those authorities when necessary.” 

The Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act of 2022, sponsored by Stabenow, would amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide the Commodity Futures Trading Commission jurisdiction to oversee the spot digital commodity market.

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee last week called for more federal oversight of cryptocurrency exchanges. The comments come as cryptocurrency exchange FTX collapsed last week, and a collapse of cryptocurrency prices. The Senate Agriculture Committee has jurisdiction over the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, “Consumers continue to be harmed by the lack of transparency and accountability in this market. Ranking Republican from Arkansas, John Boozman, says, “The events that have transpired reinforce the clear need for greater federal oversight of the digital asset industry.” Boozman adds, “While our legislative work continues, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission already has the ability to regulate and prosecute fraud, manipulation and abuse. I strongly encourage them to actively exercise those authorities when necessary.” The Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act of 2022, sponsored by Stabenow, would amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide the Commodity Futures Trading Commission jurisdiction to oversee the spot digital commodity market.

Senate ag leaders call for greater cryptocurrency regulation

LINCOLN — The Nebraska Ag Expo will return to Lincoln, NE on Dec. 6 to 8 for its 16th annual appearance at the Lancaster Event Center.

Spanning 9.2 acres, the Nebraska Ag Expo is the second largest indoor ag show in the United States, second only to the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, KY. More than 775 exhibitors will travel from 25 states and 6 Canadian provinces to display their latest products and services in front of Nebraskan producers.

For the first time, attendees can purchase their tickets to the Nebraska Ag Expo online in advance this year. Attendees can skip the line, pay for tickets in advance, and save $5 admission by registering online. Registration information like number of acres farmed, type(s) of livestock raised, and type(s) of crops grown is used for demographic, sponsor, and marketing purposes.

For more information, click <a href="https://nebraskaagexpo.com/">HERE</a>.

What else is new and noteworthy this year?

• Innovation Hub: Attendees will have a new centralized location called the Innovation Hub to discover the most innovative ag technology on the market today. From autonomous equipment to electric vehicles to robotics to artificial intelligence solutions and more, the Innovation Hub will be in Pavilion 3 of the Lancaster Event Center.

• ExpoEDU: Attendees will also be able to dive deeper into specific topics of interest with the new series of educational sessions called ExpoEDU. The speaker sessions will take place at the new ExpoEDU stage in Pavilion 3 of the Lancaster Event Center. ExpoEDU sessions are included with admission to the Nebraska Ag Expo.

• Career Exploration Event: The Nebraska Ag Expo will host a Career Exploration Event for middle and high school students during the show. Approximately 540 students will attend the event to learn about career opportunities available to them in the agriculture industry.

• Organic/Regenerative Ag Categories: Producers who are interested in organic farming and regenerative agriculture will now be able to find all companies in these categories in one place in Pavilion 3 in the Innovation Hub.

Regular admission is $10 at the door or $5 with advance registration. Each ticket is valid for all three days of the Nebraska Ag Expo. Children under 14 years old as well as students with a valid student ID receive free admission. Tickets purchased in advance are non-refundable.

The Nebraska Ag Expo will kick off at 8:30am on Tuesday, December 6. Hours are 8:30am-4:00pm
Tuesday and Wednesday and 8:30am-3:00pm Thursday. The Lancaster Event Center is located at 4100 N
85th Street in Lincoln, NE. Parking is free. ADA accessible parking is available close to the entrances of the
Lincoln Room, Pavilion 1, and Pavilion 3. Overnight visitors are recommended to book their stay with our
supporting hotels (visit nebraskaagexpo.com/lodging).


The Nebraska Ag Expo began in 2007 when it was known as the Nebraska Power Farming Show.
Produced by the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA), the show was modeled after
INEDA’s successful Iowa Ag Expo, now in its 98th year.


The timing and location of the show is ideal. Held in December, it appeals to producers and exhibitors
alike, with growers and ranchers taking advantage of year-end buying specials and exhibitors looking to
sell. Conveniently located on the eastern edge of Lincoln, the show also offers easy access without the
traffic and parking hassles typically found at urban shows.


In April 2020, the show was renamed the Nebraska Ag Expo to better reflect the evolution of agriculture
and the ag show. Growers are hungry for knowledge and eager to adopt innovation and new
technology, and that is what they will find at the Nebraska Ag Expo.


Stay up to date with the latest Nebraska Ag Expo news and events on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and
our website, NebraskaAgExpo.com.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668451536512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN — The Nebraska Ag Expo will return to Lincoln, NE on Dec. 6 to 8 for its 16th annual appearance at the Lancaster Event Center.Spanning 9.2 acres, the Nebraska Ag Expo is the second largest indoor ag show in the United States, second only to the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, KY. More than 775 exhibitors will travel from 25 states and 6 Canadian provinces to display their latest products and services in front of Nebraskan producers.For the first time, attendees can purchase their tickets to the Nebraska Ag Expo online in advance this year. Attendees can skip the line, pay for tickets in advance, and save $5 admission by registering online. Registration information like number of acres farmed, type(s) of livestock raised, and type(s) of crops grown is used for demographic, sponsor, and marketing purposes.For more information, click <a href="https://nebraskaagexpo.com/">HERE</a>.What else is new and noteworthy this year?• Innovation Hub: Attendees will have a new centralized location called the Innovation Hub to discover the most innovative ag technology on the market today. From autonomous equipment to electric vehicles to robotics to artificial intelligence solutions and more, the Innovation Hub will be in Pavilion 3 of the Lancaster Event Center.• ExpoEDU: Attendees will also be able to dive deeper into specific topics of interest with the new series of educational sessions called ExpoEDU. The speaker sessions will take place at the new ExpoEDU stage in Pavilion 3 of the Lancaster Event Center. ExpoEDU sessions are included with admission to the Nebraska Ag Expo.• Career Exploration Event: The Nebraska Ag Expo will host a Career Exploration Event for middle and high school students during the show. Approximately 540 students will attend the event to learn about career opportunities available to them in the agriculture industry.• Organic/Regenerative Ag Categories: Producers who are interested in organic farming and regenerative agriculture will now be able to find all companies in these categories in one place in Pavilion 3 in the Innovation Hub.Regular admission is $10 at the door or $5 with advance registration. Each ticket is valid for all three days of the Nebraska Ag Expo. Children under 14 years old as well as students with a valid student ID receive free admission. Tickets purchased in advance are non-refundable.The Nebraska Ag Expo will kick off at 8:30am on Tuesday, December 6. Hours are 8:30am-4:00pm
Tuesday and Wednesday and 8:30am-3:00pm Thursday. The Lancaster Event Center is located at 4100 N
85th Street in Lincoln, NE. Parking is free. ADA accessible parking is available close to the entrances of the
Lincoln Room, Pavilion 1, and Pavilion 3. Overnight visitors are recommended to book their stay with our
supporting hotels (visit nebraskaagexpo.com/lodging).
The Nebraska Ag Expo began in 2007 when it was known as the Nebraska Power Farming Show.
Produced by the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA), the show was modeled after
INEDA’s successful Iowa Ag Expo, now in its 98th year.
The timing and location of the show is ideal. Held in December, it appeals to producers and exhibitors
alike, with growers and ranchers taking advantage of year-end buying specials and exhibitors looking to
sell. Conveniently located on the eastern edge of Lincoln, the show also offers easy access without the
traffic and parking hassles typically found at urban shows.
In April 2020, the show was renamed the Nebraska Ag Expo to better reflect the evolution of agriculture
and the ag show. Growers are hungry for knowledge and eager to adopt innovation and new
technology, and that is what they will find at the Nebraska Ag Expo.
Stay up to date with the latest Nebraska Ag Expo news and events on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and
our website, NebraskaAgExpo.com.

Nebraska Ag Expo returns to Lincoln for its 16th year

A Republican senator from Nebraska plans to submit legislation to expand national sales of E15 with the support of a major oil industry trade group. 

Successful Farming says Deb Fischer believes there is a way to move ahead with year-round E15 sales that have previously been opposed by some oil and environmental groups. 

The American Petroleum Institute, one of the oil industry’s top trade groups, began discussions earlier this year with the Renewable Fuels Association on a nationwide expansion of E15. 

The API began cooperating with biofuel trade groups after governors from major corn-producing states requested the Environmental Protection Agency lift restrictions on E15 sales in their states. The governors’ proposal raised oil industry concerns about fuel supplies. 

“A state-by-state approach would create a boutique fuel market in the Midwest and may negatively impact the reliability of gasoline supply to the region,” says Will Hupman, API Vice President of Downstream Policy.

A Republican senator from Nebraska plans to submit legislation to expand national sales of E15 with the support of a major oil industry trade group. Successful Farming says Deb Fischer believes there is a way to move ahead with year-round E15 sales that have previously been opposed by some oil and environmental groups. The American Petroleum Institute, one of the oil industry’s top trade groups, began discussions earlier this year with the Renewable Fuels Association on a nationwide expansion of E15. The API began cooperating with biofuel trade groups after governors from major corn-producing states requested the Environmental Protection Agency lift restrictions on E15 sales in their states. The governors’ proposal raised oil industry concerns about fuel supplies. “A state-by-state approach would create a boutique fuel market in the Midwest and may negatively impact the reliability of gasoline supply to the region,” says Will Hupman, API Vice President of Downstream Policy.

Year-Round ethanol sales idea wins oil group support

Interest rates on farm loans increased sharply in the third quarter, and the acceleration in farm real estate values continued to ease. 

The Kansas City Fed says farm income and credit conditions remained solid, but the pace of improvement softened. 

The financial impact of the drought also intensified, particularly in the southern and western portions of the district. 

Despite the recent headwinds, farm finances remained strong and continued to support sound agricultural loan performance. The outlook for the agricultural economy generally remains positive despite a recent pull back in prices for some key farm commodities. 

Crop market volatility, higher expenses, and drought could hinder income opportunities for some producers, but prices for key crops and livestock remain at multi-year highs, and profit opportunities remain favorable across the farm sector. 

The recent substantial improvement in farm finances and a surge in agricultural real estate values have also bolstered farmer balance sheets.

Interest rates on farm loans increased sharply in the third quarter, and the acceleration in farm real estate values continued to ease. The Kansas City Fed says farm income and credit conditions remained solid, but the pace of improvement softened. The financial impact of the drought also intensified, particularly in the southern and western portions of the district. Despite the recent headwinds, farm finances remained strong and continued to support sound agricultural loan performance. The outlook for the agricultural economy generally remains positive despite a recent pull back in prices for some key farm commodities. Crop market volatility, higher expenses, and drought could hinder income opportunities for some producers, but prices for key crops and livestock remain at multi-year highs, and profit opportunities remain favorable across the farm sector. The recent substantial improvement in farm finances and a surge in agricultural real estate values have also bolstered farmer balance sheets.