A Kansas State University-led study finds bison double plant diversity in a tallgrass prairie. 

The research involves more than 30 years of data collection and was recently published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. 

The study found that plant communities also were resilient to the most extreme drought in four decades. 

These gains are now among the largest recorded increases in species richness because of grazing in grasslands globally, researchers said. The study occurred in the Flint Hills ecoregion, the largest remaining landscape of tallgrass prairie. 

Researchers examined plant community composition and diversity in three treatments that were designed to capture characteristic management regimes: no mega-grazers were present, bison were reintroduced and allowed to graze year-round, or domestic cattle were introduced and allowed to graze during the growing season. 

The study also found cattle have a positive impact on plant diversity, compared to having no large grazers present, although increases in plant species richness were significantly smaller than those caused by bison.

A Kansas State University-led study finds bison double plant diversity in a tallgrass prairie. The research involves more than 30 years of data collection and was recently published in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. The study found that plant communities also were resilient to the most extreme drought in four decades. These gains are now among the largest recorded increases in species richness because of grazing in grasslands globally, researchers said. The study occurred in the Flint Hills ecoregion, the largest remaining landscape of tallgrass prairie. Researchers examined plant community composition and diversity in three treatments that were designed to capture characteristic management regimes: no mega-grazers were present, bison were reintroduced and allowed to graze year-round, or domestic cattle were introduced and allowed to graze during the growing season. The study also found cattle have a positive impact on plant diversity, compared to having no large grazers present, although increases in plant species richness were significantly smaller than those caused by bison.

Bison increase plant diversity, drought resilience in grasslands

The National Association of Wheat Growers welcomes recommendations regarding dams along the Lower Snake River by Senator Patty Murray and Washington Governor Jay Inslee. 

The Democrats say in a joint statement, "it’s clear that breach is not an option right now.” 

NAWB CEO Chandler Goule responds, “We are glad the recommendations released by Senator Murray and Governor Inslee recognize the role these dams play in agriculture and acknowledge dam breaching is not feasible at present.” 

Goule adds, " However, we remain concerned and opposed to breaching as it would be detrimental to wheat growers across the region." NAWG says the dams play a vital role in providing a safe, efficient and affordable way for wheat farmers to get their product to market. 

Last month, NAWG filed a public comment outlining concern, whereby other modes of transportation cannot simply replace barging. Wheat farmers move grain most efficiently by using the waterway instead of rail or truck while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to the organization.

The National Association of Wheat Growers welcomes recommendations regarding dams along the Lower Snake River by Senator Patty Murray and Washington Governor Jay Inslee. The Democrats say in a joint statement, "it’s clear that breach is not an option right now.” NAWB CEO Chandler Goule responds, “We are glad the recommendations released by Senator Murray and Governor Inslee recognize the role these dams play in agriculture and acknowledge dam breaching is not feasible at present.” Goule adds, " However, we remain concerned and opposed to breaching as it would be detrimental to wheat growers across the region." NAWG says the dams play a vital role in providing a safe, efficient and affordable way for wheat farmers to get their product to market. Last month, NAWG filed a public comment outlining concern, whereby other modes of transportation cannot simply replace barging. Wheat farmers move grain most efficiently by using the waterway instead of rail or truck while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, according to the organization.

NAWG responds to lower Snake River Dams Report

The Environmental Protection Agency over the weekend issued an emergency fuel waiver to help alleviate fuel shortages in four states impacted by a refinery shutdown. 

A BP oil refinery in Whiting, Indiana, shut down because of a fire at the facility. 

EPA waived the federal regulations and federally enforceable State Implementation Plan requirements for fuel volatility on gasoline sold in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. 

The waiver will continue through September 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Clean Air Act allows EPA Administrator Michael Regan, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to waive certain fuel requirements to address shortages. 

Administrator Regan determined that extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances exist and has granted a temporary waiver to help ensure that an adequate gasoline supply is available in the affected areas. 

EPA and DOE are continuing to actively monitor the fuel supply situation resulting from the Bp refinery shutdown and considering additional measures to alleviate the impact.

The Environmental Protection Agency over the weekend issued an emergency fuel waiver to help alleviate fuel shortages in four states impacted by a refinery shutdown. A BP oil refinery in Whiting, Indiana, shut down because of a fire at the facility. EPA waived the federal regulations and federally enforceable State Implementation Plan requirements for fuel volatility on gasoline sold in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The waiver will continue through September 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Clean Air Act allows EPA Administrator Michael Regan, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to waive certain fuel requirements to address shortages. Administrator Regan determined that extreme and unusual fuel supply circumstances exist and has granted a temporary waiver to help ensure that an adequate gasoline supply is available in the affected areas. EPA and DOE are continuing to actively monitor the fuel supply situation resulting from the Bp refinery shutdown and considering additional measures to alleviate the impact.

EPA issues fuel waiver for four states impacted by Bp refinery shutdown

America’s farmers and ranchers will soon have the opportunity to be represented in the nation's only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county and territory. 

The Department of Agriculture will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture to millions of agriculture producers across the 50 states and Puerto Rico this fall. 

The 2022 Census of Agriculture will be mailed in phases, starting with an invitation to respond online in November, followed by paper questionnaires in December. 

Farm operations of all sizes, urban and rural, which produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022 are included in the ag census. 

Collected in service to American agriculture since 1840 and now conducted every five years by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Census of Agriculture tells the story and shows the value of U.S. agriculture. 

Changes to the 2022 questionnaire include new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production, hair sheep, and updates to internet access questions.

America’s farmers and ranchers will soon have the opportunity to be represented in the nation's only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county and territory. The Department of Agriculture will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture to millions of agriculture producers across the 50 states and Puerto Rico this fall. The 2022 Census of Agriculture will be mailed in phases, starting with an invitation to respond online in November, followed by paper questionnaires in December. Farm operations of all sizes, urban and rural, which produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022 are included in the ag census. Collected in service to American agriculture since 1840 and now conducted every five years by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Census of Agriculture tells the story and shows the value of U.S. agriculture. Changes to the 2022 questionnaire include new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production, hair sheep, and updates to internet access questions.

USDA announces details for upcoming Census of Agriculture 

U.S. fuel prices continued their decline for the 11th&nbsp;straight week, with gasoline down five cents a gallon to a national average of $3.81. 

GasBuddy reports the national average is down 39.8 cents from a month ago but 69.1 cents higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel has increased 7.3 cents in the last week and stands at $5.04 per gallon. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Gas prices are now $1.20 per gallon lower than mid-June with Americans spending $450 million less on gasoline every day as a result.”&nbsp;&nbsp;However, some issues could change the course of fuel prices moving forward, including the shutdown of BP’s refinery in the Midwest. 

De Haan says, “While that refinery may get back online sooner rather than later, it’s not impossible that down the road the situation could impact prices in the region." The rest of the country, however, will see prices moderate.

U.S. fuel prices continued their decline for the 11th&nbsp;straight week, with gasoline down five cents a gallon to a national average of $3.81. GasBuddy reports the national average is down 39.8 cents from a month ago but 69.1 cents higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 7.3 cents in the last week and stands at $5.04 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Gas prices are now $1.20 per gallon lower than mid-June with Americans spending $450 million less on gasoline every day as a result.”&nbsp;&nbsp;However, some issues could change the course of fuel prices moving forward, including the shutdown of BP’s refinery in the Midwest. De Haan says, “While that refinery may get back online sooner rather than later, it’s not impossible that down the road the situation could impact prices in the region." The rest of the country, however, will see prices moderate.

Fuel prices decline again, gas down $1.20 from peak

Last week, the California Air Resources Board approved standards for vehicles made in the model year 2026 and later. 

In response to the announcement, the National Corn Growers Association says California regulators “missed an opportunity” to allow for more innovation and broaden low- and zero-emission solutions, in addition to the proposed electric vehicles, to maximize emission reductions while improving equity for consumers. 

“As NCGA told regulators during the rule-making process, constraining the vision of a zero-emission future prevents the state from tapping into the immediate and affordable environmental solutions that come from replacing more gasoline with low-carbon and low-cost ethanol in both current and new vehicles, including the electric plug-in hybrids, ” the organization says in a release. 

“Ethanol is on a path to net zero emissions, and NCGA will continue to work with and urge California to use all the tools in its toolbox as it addresses climate change and cuts harmful tailpipe emissions.”

Last week, the California Air Resources Board approved standards for vehicles made in the model year 2026 and later. In response to the announcement, the National Corn Growers Association says California regulators “missed an opportunity” to allow for more innovation and broaden low- and zero-emission solutions, in addition to the proposed electric vehicles, to maximize emission reductions while improving equity for consumers. “As NCGA told regulators during the rule-making process, constraining the vision of a zero-emission future prevents the state from tapping into the immediate and affordable environmental solutions that come from replacing more gasoline with low-carbon and low-cost ethanol in both current and new vehicles, including the electric plug-in hybrids, ” the organization says in a release. “Ethanol is on a path to net zero emissions, and NCGA will continue to work with and urge California to use all the tools in its toolbox as it addresses climate change and cuts harmful tailpipe emissions.”

NCGA: New California vehicle requirements a missed opportunity

China’s record heatwave is beginning to disappear, and farmers are assessing the damage caused by the lengthy dry spell. 

Reuters says the Chinese government is urging its producers to replant or switch crops where they can. Over 70 days of extreme temperatures and low rainfall have hit the country’s crops hard. 

Rain is in the forecast over the next ten days, but farmers worry the heat has already done too much damage. 

In an emergency notice, the ag ministry called on the country’s farmers to harvest and store rice and take action to strengthen potential grain growth in the weeks ahead. 

In parts of the country where drought has already done damage, the government is asking its farmers to switch to late-fall crops like sweet potatoes. However, experts say that won’t be an easy task because nearby wells have been severely depleted of water, and some ponds have disappeared.

China’s record heatwave is beginning to disappear, and farmers are assessing the damage caused by the lengthy dry spell. Reuters says the Chinese government is urging its producers to replant or switch crops where they can. Over 70 days of extreme temperatures and low rainfall have hit the country’s crops hard. Rain is in the forecast over the next ten days, but farmers worry the heat has already done too much damage. In an emergency notice, the ag ministry called on the country’s farmers to harvest and store rice and take action to strengthen potential grain growth in the weeks ahead. In parts of the country where drought has already done damage, the government is asking its farmers to switch to late-fall crops like sweet potatoes. However, experts say that won’t be an easy task because nearby wells have been severely depleted of water, and some ponds have disappeared.

Chinese government tells farmers to replant or switch crops after drought

University of Missouri Extension researchers have confirmed the state’s first case of glufosinate-resistant Palmer Amaranth in the Bootheel Region of Missouri. 

Palmer Amaranth spreads and adapts quickly to herbicides. Each weed produces up to one million seeds, which heightens the spread of resistance. 

The confirmation of Glufosinate resistance is a big concern for the state’s farmers because that resistance seems to be evolving at a quicker pace. 

Extension researcher Jim Heiser says, “Every mode of action that Palmer becomes resistant to seems to come at a quicker pace than the previous one.” He also warns farmers not to solely rely on herbicides to control weeds. 

He says to consider cultural practices for weed control, such as narrow row spacing for crops, the use of cover crops, and harvest weed seed management techniques. Palmer’s spread likely comes from used farm equipment like combines, custom harvesting crews, and feed and seed from other regions of the country.

University of Missouri Extension researchers have confirmed the state’s first case of glufosinate-resistant Palmer Amaranth in the Bootheel Region of Missouri. Palmer Amaranth spreads and adapts quickly to herbicides. Each weed produces up to one million seeds, which heightens the spread of resistance. The confirmation of Glufosinate resistance is a big concern for the state’s farmers because that resistance seems to be evolving at a quicker pace. Extension researcher Jim Heiser says, “Every mode of action that Palmer becomes resistant to seems to come at a quicker pace than the previous one.” He also warns farmers not to solely rely on herbicides to control weeds. He says to consider cultural practices for weed control, such as narrow row spacing for crops, the use of cover crops, and harvest weed seed management techniques. Palmer’s spread likely comes from used farm equipment like combines, custom harvesting crews, and feed and seed from other regions of the country.

Glufosinate-resistant Palmer Amaranth found in Missouri

The Fertilizer Institute is grateful to members of the Presidential Emergency Board who listened to rail carriers and their labor unions amid their contract negotiations. 

The PEB offered measured recommendations on a pending contract agreement between the two. 

Both sides have until September 16 to evaluate the PEB’s recommendations during a mandated 30-day cooling-off period. 

The board’s recommendations include general wage increases and service recognition bonuses worth $1,000. “Uncertainty of this nature is yet another disruption in an already complex environment for farmers, so a speedy resolution is paramount,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. 

“Over half of all fertilizer moves by rail every year throughout the United States, and the timeliness and reliability of fertilizer shipments are absolutely critical.” He also says if the farmers can’t get their fertilizer in a timely manner, it results in lower crop yields, higher food prices, and more inflation for America’s consumers.

The Fertilizer Institute is grateful to members of the Presidential Emergency Board who listened to rail carriers and their labor unions amid their contract negotiations. The PEB offered measured recommendations on a pending contract agreement between the two. Both sides have until September 16 to evaluate the PEB’s recommendations during a mandated 30-day cooling-off period. The board’s recommendations include general wage increases and service recognition bonuses worth $1,000. “Uncertainty of this nature is yet another disruption in an already complex environment for farmers, so a speedy resolution is paramount,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Over half of all fertilizer moves by rail every year throughout the United States, and the timeliness and reliability of fertilizer shipments are absolutely critical.” He also says if the farmers can’t get their fertilizer in a timely manner, it results in lower crop yields, higher food prices, and more inflation for America’s consumers.

Fertilizer Institute hopes for quick Rail-Labor Union contract settlement

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the American Farm Bureau, and other members of a coalition applauded an appeals court decision allowing intervention in a case regarding gray wolves. 

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will allow the coalition to intervene in the Defenders of Wildlife versus the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and defend the previous administration’s delisting of the gray wolf. 

“The decision to allow the coalition to intervene in the case demonstrates what we’ve always known: livestock producers deserve to have their voice heard on the delisting of the gray wolf,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the Public Lands Council. 

Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says when the gray wolf exceeded its recovery goals, it became an Endangered Species Act success story. “With thriving populations, management of species should now be the responsibility of the states, which can best determine appropriate management practices for the gray wolf,” Duvall says.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the American Farm Bureau, and other members of a coalition applauded an appeals court decision allowing intervention in a case regarding gray wolves. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will allow the coalition to intervene in the Defenders of Wildlife versus the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and defend the previous administration’s delisting of the gray wolf. “The decision to allow the coalition to intervene in the case demonstrates what we’ve always known: livestock producers deserve to have their voice heard on the delisting of the gray wolf,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the Public Lands Council. Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says when the gray wolf exceeded its recovery goals, it became an Endangered Species Act success story. “With thriving populations, management of species should now be the responsibility of the states, which can best determine appropriate management practices for the gray wolf,” Duvall says.

Court grants coalition intervention in gray wolf lawsuit

The U.S. Energy Information Administration says renewable diesel production will surpass biodiesel production in the country in October. 

The EIA’s team lead for petroleum and natural gas modeling says they’re seeing continued growth on the renewable diesel side and stagnation to slight shrinking on the biodiesel side. 

Western Producer says renewable diesel capacity was estimated at 1.92 billion gallons per year in May, up from 1.75 billion gallons in January. 

Biodiesel capacity was estimated at 2.22 billion gallons, down from 2.26 billion. Many of the traditional oil refineries in the U.S. are being converted to renewable diesel plants. The EIA estimates that 440,000 barrels per day were converted to renewable diesel in 2020. 

Expectations are that another 660,000 barrels a day will be converted to renewable diesel in 2022. The agency says it’s already prepared an article for when renewable diesel surpasses biodiesel production, which it expects to publish in October.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration says renewable diesel production will surpass biodiesel production in the country in October. The EIA’s team lead for petroleum and natural gas modeling says they’re seeing continued growth on the renewable diesel side and stagnation to slight shrinking on the biodiesel side. Western Producer says renewable diesel capacity was estimated at 1.92 billion gallons per year in May, up from 1.75 billion gallons in January. Biodiesel capacity was estimated at 2.22 billion gallons, down from 2.26 billion. Many of the traditional oil refineries in the U.S. are being converted to renewable diesel plants. The EIA estimates that 440,000 barrels per day were converted to renewable diesel in 2020. Expectations are that another 660,000 barrels a day will be converted to renewable diesel in 2022. The agency says it’s already prepared an article for when renewable diesel surpasses biodiesel production, which it expects to publish in October.

Renewable diesel to overtake biodiesel production

A new $550 million program from the Department of Agriculture seeks to support projects that help underserved producers. 

The program supports projects that enable producers access to land, capital, and markets, and train the next diverse generation of agricultural professionals. 

The investments are made through funding provided in the American Rescue Plan Act, as amended by the Inflation Reduction Act. 

The provisions fund and direct USDA to take action to help ensure underserved producers have the resources, tools, programs, and technical support they need to succeed. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the funding is part of “USDA’s unwavering commitment to advancing equity for all, including people who have been underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.” 

The program includes Up to $300 million for “Increasing Land, Capital and Market Access” Projects aimed at helping underserved producers. An additional $250 million goes to the “From Learning to Leading: Cultivating the Next Generation of Diverse Food and Agriculture Professionals” program.

A new $550 million program from the Department of Agriculture seeks to support projects that help underserved producers. The program supports projects that enable producers access to land, capital, and markets, and train the next diverse generation of agricultural professionals. The investments are made through funding provided in the American Rescue Plan Act, as amended by the Inflation Reduction Act. The provisions fund and direct USDA to take action to help ensure underserved producers have the resources, tools, programs, and technical support they need to succeed. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the funding is part of “USDA’s unwavering commitment to advancing equity for all, including people who have been underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.” The program includes Up to $300 million for “Increasing Land, Capital and Market Access” Projects aimed at helping underserved producers. An additional $250 million goes to the “From Learning to Leading: Cultivating the Next Generation of Diverse Food and Agriculture Professionals” program.

Vilsack announces new program for underserved, minority farmers

The federal government this week extended a series of waivers to provide WIC families with additional infant formula options through the end of the year. 

The Department of Agriculture extended the waivers to December 31, 2022, or 60 days after the expiration of the state’s COVID-19 major disaster declaration. 

The waivers were previously set to expire at the end of September.&nbsp; Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We will continue to work all hands on deck to ensure families can access infant formula.” 

The waivers extended allow WIC state agencies, with the necessary agreements from their infant formula contract manufacturers, to offer participants additional infant formula options, such as alternate sizes, forms and brands.

USDA began offering waivers immediately after the February voluntary recall of certain Abbott powder infant formulas, which exacerbated existing supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, USDA has granted nearly 500 waivers to WIC state agencies.

The federal government this week extended a series of waivers to provide WIC families with additional infant formula options through the end of the year. The Department of Agriculture extended the waivers to December 31, 2022, or 60 days after the expiration of the state’s COVID-19 major disaster declaration. The waivers were previously set to expire at the end of September.&nbsp; Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “We will continue to work all hands on deck to ensure families can access infant formula.” The waivers extended allow WIC state agencies, with the necessary agreements from their infant formula contract manufacturers, to offer participants additional infant formula options, such as alternate sizes, forms and brands.USDA began offering waivers immediately after the February voluntary recall of certain Abbott powder infant formulas, which exacerbated existing supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, USDA has granted nearly 500 waivers to WIC state agencies.

USDA extends infant formula waivers, supports WIC state agencies

The American Feed Industry Association released its annual "Our Industry, Our Promise," report Wednesday. 

The report details the challenges the U.S. feed and pet food industry faced over the past year, and the steps the AFIA took to address member priorities. 

The report provides an overview of the segment's impact on the U.S. economy, its efforts to promote animal food safety and worker health and safety, and its initiatives to enhance global competitiveness and industry environmental sustainability programs. 

AFIA President and Chief Executive Officer Constance Cullman says, "turmoil continued throughout 2021 and into 2022, but through it all, our industry stayed strong." 

The report offers a look at the business climate for U.S. animal food manufacturers, state issues and regulations, management of food safety,&nbsp;and trade. The report also provides an update on AFIA's educational offerings over the past year. Find the report on the AFIA website, afia.org.

The American Feed Industry Association released its annual "Our Industry, Our Promise," report Wednesday. The report details the challenges the U.S. feed and pet food industry faced over the past year, and the steps the AFIA took to address member priorities. The report provides an overview of the segment's impact on the U.S. economy, its efforts to promote animal food safety and worker health and safety, and its initiatives to enhance global competitiveness and industry environmental sustainability programs. AFIA President and Chief Executive Officer Constance Cullman says, "turmoil continued throughout 2021 and into 2022, but through it all, our industry stayed strong." The report offers a look at the business climate for U.S. animal food manufacturers, state issues and regulations, management of food safety,&nbsp;and trade. The report also provides an update on AFIA's educational offerings over the past year. Find the report on the AFIA website, afia.org.

AFIA releases State of the U.S. Feed Industry Report

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday opened the application window for grants to increase the sale and use of biofuels. 

USDA has $100 million in funding available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. 

The program seeks to market higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by sharing the costs to build and retrofit biofuel-related infrastructure such as pumps, dispensers and storage tanks. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Expanding the availability of higher-blend fuels is a win for American farmers, the rural economy and hardworking Americans.” 

The additional funding follows an April investment of $5.6 million to increase the availability of biofuels by 59.5 million gallons per year in California, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and South Dakota. 

In June, USDA also announced that it had provided $700 million in relief funding to more than 100 biofuel producers in 25 states who experienced market losses due to the pandemic.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday opened the application window for grants to increase the sale and use of biofuels. USDA has $100 million in funding available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. The program seeks to market higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by sharing the costs to build and retrofit biofuel-related infrastructure such as pumps, dispensers and storage tanks. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Expanding the availability of higher-blend fuels is a win for American farmers, the rural economy and hardworking Americans.” The additional funding follows an April investment of $5.6 million to increase the availability of biofuels by 59.5 million gallons per year in California, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and South Dakota. In June, USDA also announced that it had provided $700 million in relief funding to more than 100 biofuel producers in 25 states who experienced market losses due to the pandemic.

USDA accepting applications for Biofuel Infrastructure Grants

Many U.S. school food authorities purchase local foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and proteins for their district’s cafeterias. 

In addition to buying locally produced foods, many school districts participate in other farm to school activities, such as product-specific promotions, taste tests of local foods, onsite edible gardens, and field trips to farms. 

Approximately two-thirds of U.S. school districts participated in farm to school activities during the 2018-19 school year, according to research from USDA. 

Of the school districts that participated, 78 percent reported purchasing any local foods during the school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fruits and vegetables topped the list of local foods purchased in 2018-19, at 85 percent and 82 percent of school districts, respectively. 

Further, 68 percent of school districts reported buying locally produced milk, and 29 percent reported buying local grains, including baked goods. Approximately a third of school districts reported purchasing other local dairy products, and about a quarter purchased locally produced proteins.

Many U.S. school food authorities purchase local foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and proteins for their district’s cafeterias. In addition to buying locally produced foods, many school districts participate in other farm to school activities, such as product-specific promotions, taste tests of local foods, onsite edible gardens, and field trips to farms. Approximately two-thirds of U.S. school districts participated in farm to school activities during the 2018-19 school year, according to research from USDA. Of the school districts that participated, 78 percent reported purchasing any local foods during the school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fruits and vegetables topped the list of local foods purchased in 2018-19, at 85 percent and 82 percent of school districts, respectively. Further, 68 percent of school districts reported buying locally produced milk, and 29 percent reported buying local grains, including baked goods. Approximately a third of school districts reported purchasing other local dairy products, and about a quarter purchased locally produced proteins.

Fruits, vegetables, top local foods purchased by schools

United States egg production totaled nine billion during July, down three percent from last year. 

The Department of Agriculture says production included 7.69 billion table eggs, and 1.31 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.22 billion were broiler-type, and 90.7 million were egg type. 

The average number of layers during July totaled 368 million, down four percent from last year. 

Total layers in the United States totaled 369 million, down four percent from last year. Egg-type chicks hatched during July totaled 50.1 million, down two percent from July 2021, while eggs in incubators totaled 49.9 million, up 11 percent from a year ago. 

Domestic placements of egg-type pullet chicks for future hatchery supply flocks by leading breeders totaled 166,000 during July 2022, down 17 percent from July 2021. 

Broiler-type chicks hatched during July 2022 totaled 859 million, up two percent from July 2021. Eggs in incubators totaled 727 million, up two percent from a year ago.

United States egg production totaled nine billion during July, down three percent from last year. The Department of Agriculture says production included 7.69 billion table eggs, and 1.31 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.22 billion were broiler-type, and 90.7 million were egg type. The average number of layers during July totaled 368 million, down four percent from last year. Total layers in the United States totaled 369 million, down four percent from last year. Egg-type chicks hatched during July totaled 50.1 million, down two percent from July 2021, while eggs in incubators totaled 49.9 million, up 11 percent from a year ago. Domestic placements of egg-type pullet chicks for future hatchery supply flocks by leading breeders totaled 166,000 during July 2022, down 17 percent from July 2021. Broiler-type chicks hatched during July 2022 totaled 859 million, up two percent from July 2021. Eggs in incubators totaled 727 million, up two percent from a year ago.

July egg production down, broiler hatch up

Pro Farmer scouts are measuring the corn and soybean crop yield potential during this week’s Pro Farmer Crop Tour. 

Farmer-scouts and industry experts will cover corn and soybean fields across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio and South Dakota during Crop Tour. 

Pro Farmer Editor Brian Grete says, “We know there are some trouble spots out there, areas that were dry in June and remained that way through pollination, but also many good areas where yields will be impressive.” 

Pro Farmer Crop Tour is the most thorough and most followed inspection of yield potential during a critical time in the growing season. Crop industry stakeholders watch results closely for insights around projected grain supplies and the effects on commodity markets. 

Daily results are presented during nightly meetings. Registration is required to attend the meetings or access live-streaming results. You can register at profarmer.com. Pro Farmer will release the final results of the tour Friday afternoon.

Pro Farmer scouts are measuring the corn and soybean crop yield potential during this week’s Pro Farmer Crop Tour. Farmer-scouts and industry experts will cover corn and soybean fields across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio and South Dakota during Crop Tour. Pro Farmer Editor Brian Grete says, “We know there are some trouble spots out there, areas that were dry in June and remained that way through pollination, but also many good areas where yields will be impressive.” Pro Farmer Crop Tour is the most thorough and most followed inspection of yield potential during a critical time in the growing season. Crop industry stakeholders watch results closely for insights around projected grain supplies and the effects on commodity markets. Daily results are presented during nightly meetings. Registration is required to attend the meetings or access live-streaming results. You can register at profarmer.com. Pro Farmer will release the final results of the tour Friday afternoon.

Pro Farmer Crop Tour underway

Officials from the U.S. Trade Representative's Office have a busy schedule this week. 

Assistant United States Trade Representative for Central and South Asian Affairs, Christopher Wilson, and Assistant United States Trade Representative for Agricultural Affairs, Julie Callahan, started the week in New Delhi. 

The officials held consultations under the framework of the U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum. 

Those talks continue through Wednesday, then Wilson will travel to Bangladesh for discussions on a range of bilateral trade issues on Thursday. Meanwhile, today, Ambassador Jayme White meets with officials from Mexico to follow up on the July U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Commission meeting. 

Assistant United States Trade Representative for Environment and Natural Resources Kelly Milton will take part in the public session of the United States-Chile EAC-ECC meeting. 

The travels this week follow last week’s announcement that the U.S. and Taiwan reached a consensus on the negotiating mandate for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade announced, with negotiations planned for this fall.

Officials from the U.S. Trade Representative's Office have a busy schedule this week. Assistant United States Trade Representative for Central and South Asian Affairs, Christopher Wilson, and Assistant United States Trade Representative for Agricultural Affairs, Julie Callahan, started the week in New Delhi. The officials held consultations under the framework of the U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum. Those talks continue through Wednesday, then Wilson will travel to Bangladesh for discussions on a range of bilateral trade issues on Thursday. Meanwhile, today, Ambassador Jayme White meets with officials from Mexico to follow up on the July U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Commission meeting. Assistant United States Trade Representative for Environment and Natural Resources Kelly Milton will take part in the public session of the United States-Chile EAC-ECC meeting. The travels this week follow last week’s announcement that the U.S. and Taiwan reached a consensus on the negotiating mandate for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade announced, with negotiations planned for this fall.

Busy week for USTR officials

The decline in fuel prices has extended to the 10th straight week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gasoline prices fell 5.1 cents in the last week to $3.86 a gallon, while diesel prices fell 6.3 cents to $4.97 a gallon. 

The national average gas price is down 51.3 cents from a month ago but 72.2 cents higher than a year ago. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick D Haan says diesel prices are below $5 a gallon for the first time since March, “likely helping to cool off aggressive inflation numbers.” 

However, De Hann adds, “The pace of declines is certainly slowing down as oil prices have bounced up slightly.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus far, Mother Nature has spared markets from disruptions from hurricanes, but that remains a wildcard as we head into the peak of hurricane season. 

Oil markets rallied last week as global oil supply continues to tighten, but balancing concerns of an economic slowdown in many major developed countries.

The decline in fuel prices has extended to the 10th straight week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gasoline prices fell 5.1 cents in the last week to $3.86 a gallon, while diesel prices fell 6.3 cents to $4.97 a gallon. The national average gas price is down 51.3 cents from a month ago but 72.2 cents higher than a year ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick D Haan says diesel prices are below $5 a gallon for the first time since March, “likely helping to cool off aggressive inflation numbers.” However, De Hann adds, “The pace of declines is certainly slowing down as oil prices have bounced up slightly.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus far, Mother Nature has spared markets from disruptions from hurricanes, but that remains a wildcard as we head into the peak of hurricane season. Oil markets rallied last week as global oil supply continues to tighten, but balancing concerns of an economic slowdown in many major developed countries.

Fuel price decline enters 10th straight week

President Biden’s new climate law offers a major expansion in tax credits for companies that capture and store carbon emissions. 

Reuters says that could give the ethanol industry a significant boost toward achieving its climate goals. 

The ethanol industry intends to use carbon capture and storage technology to reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. 

A group of projects that could benefit from the expanded credits is a series of pipeline proposals in the Midwest that could capture and transport ethanol plant emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Three companies intend to put up over 3,600 miles of pipelines from ethanol plants in six states to underground carbon storage sites. 

The three companies say the projects have the potential of capturing up to 39 million tons of carbon every year. That could potentially mean more than $3.3 billion in tax credits for the businesses. The pipelines are currently in the permitting stages in each state.

President Biden’s new climate law offers a major expansion in tax credits for companies that capture and store carbon emissions. Reuters says that could give the ethanol industry a significant boost toward achieving its climate goals. The ethanol industry intends to use carbon capture and storage technology to reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. A group of projects that could benefit from the expanded credits is a series of pipeline proposals in the Midwest that could capture and transport ethanol plant emissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Three companies intend to put up over 3,600 miles of pipelines from ethanol plants in six states to underground carbon storage sites. The three companies say the projects have the potential of capturing up to 39 million tons of carbon every year. That could potentially mean more than $3.3 billion in tax credits for the businesses. The pipelines are currently in the permitting stages in each state.

Ethanol industry may get help from climate law

The U.S. Drought Monitor says the amount of land facing drought eased a little in the western Corn Belt but was largely unchanged in the Midwest. 

In a six-state region, including Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, approximately 51 percent of the land suffered under drought conditions. 

That’s down from 53 percent during the previous week and 72 percent only three months ago. 

In the eastern part of the Midwest, including Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, about 14.5 percent of the area was in drought. That’s down slightly from 15 percent the prior week but up from less than one percent three months ago. 

Iowa, the nation’s biggest corn producer, has 39 percent of its land in a drought, up 6.9 percent from May. Illinois, the second-largest producer of corn and soybeans, only has five percent of its area in a drought.

The U.S. Drought Monitor says the amount of land facing drought eased a little in the western Corn Belt but was largely unchanged in the Midwest. In a six-state region, including Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, approximately 51 percent of the land suffered under drought conditions. That’s down from 53 percent during the previous week and 72 percent only three months ago. In the eastern part of the Midwest, including Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, about 14.5 percent of the area was in drought. That’s down slightly from 15 percent the prior week but up from less than one percent three months ago. Iowa, the nation’s biggest corn producer, has 39 percent of its land in a drought, up 6.9 percent from May. Illinois, the second-largest producer of corn and soybeans, only has five percent of its area in a drought.

Drought conditions improve slightly in the Western Corn Belt

For the first time, researchers have proven that multigene bioengineering of photosynthesis increases major food crop yields in field trials. 

A collaborative team led by the University of Illinois has worked on this project for more than ten years. 

Project researchers have transgenically altered soybean plants to increase the efficiency of photosynthesis, resulting in greater yields without a loss of quality. 

These results come at an important time. A recent United Nations report shows that nearly 10 percent of the world’s population was hungry in 2021. By 2030, UNICEF says more than 660 million people will likely face food scarcity and malnutrition. 

Photosynthesis is the natural process all plants use to convert sunlight into energy and yield.&nbsp;&nbsp;Project researchers say the 100-plus step photosynthesis process is surprisingly inefficient, so they’ve been working to improve it. The lead scientist says data shows the food supply level needs to grow significantly to meet the demand.

For the first time, researchers have proven that multigene bioengineering of photosynthesis increases major food crop yields in field trials. A collaborative team led by the University of Illinois has worked on this project for more than ten years. Project researchers have transgenically altered soybean plants to increase the efficiency of photosynthesis, resulting in greater yields without a loss of quality. These results come at an important time. A recent United Nations report shows that nearly 10 percent of the world’s population was hungry in 2021. By 2030, UNICEF says more than 660 million people will likely face food scarcity and malnutrition. Photosynthesis is the natural process all plants use to convert sunlight into energy and yield.&nbsp;&nbsp;Project researchers say the 100-plus step photosynthesis process is surprisingly inefficient, so they’ve been working to improve it. The lead scientist says data shows the food supply level needs to grow significantly to meet the demand.

Improving Photosynthesis means a 20 percent boost in soybean yields

The United States and Taiwan reached an agreement on the negotiating mandate for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century trade that was announced on June 1. 

The negotiating mandate sets out the broad objectives shared by both countries for the upcoming negotiations. 

The first round of talks will likely take place in the early fall. 

“Today, we begin negotiations with Taiwan that will deepen our trade and investment relationship, advance mutual trade priorities based on shared values, and promote innovation and inclusive economic growth for our workers and businesses,” says Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Sarah Bianchi. 

The U.S. and Taiwan have set a robust agenda for negotiations on trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, strong anti-corruption standards, and enhancing trade between small and medium enterprises in both countries. 

“We plan to pursue an ambitious schedule for achieving high-standard commitments and meaningful outcomes to help build a prosperous 21st-century economy,” Bianchi adds.

The United States and Taiwan reached an agreement on the negotiating mandate for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century trade that was announced on June 1. The negotiating mandate sets out the broad objectives shared by both countries for the upcoming negotiations. The first round of talks will likely take place in the early fall. “Today, we begin negotiations with Taiwan that will deepen our trade and investment relationship, advance mutual trade priorities based on shared values, and promote innovation and inclusive economic growth for our workers and businesses,” says Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Sarah Bianchi. The U.S. and Taiwan have set a robust agenda for negotiations on trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, strong anti-corruption standards, and enhancing trade between small and medium enterprises in both countries. “We plan to pursue an ambitious schedule for achieving high-standard commitments and meaningful outcomes to help build a prosperous 21st-century economy,” Bianchi adds.

U.S. and Taiwan start negotiations on formal 21st century trade initiative

A list of Iowa VIPs helped raise a record-breaking amount of money for those in need. 

The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show is an Iowa tradition that pairs famous people together with steer exhibitors to benefit charity. 

The Des Moines Register says this year’s event raised over $440,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, surpassing last year’s total of $375,000. 

“It’s hard to comprehend what kind of impact that much money can have for Iowa families,” say co-chairs Tanner Lawton and Casey Anderson. “The compassion shown by all of our participants is what makes this such a special event.” 

This was the 40th annual event, which has raised more than $5 million since starting in 1983. The Ronald McDonald House organization supports families with children experiencing a critical illness. The Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, and the office of Governor Kim Reynolds co-hosted the event this year.

A list of Iowa VIPs helped raise a record-breaking amount of money for those in need. The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show is an Iowa tradition that pairs famous people together with steer exhibitors to benefit charity. The Des Moines Register says this year’s event raised over $440,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, surpassing last year’s total of $375,000. “It’s hard to comprehend what kind of impact that much money can have for Iowa families,” say co-chairs Tanner Lawton and Casey Anderson. “The compassion shown by all of our participants is what makes this such a special event.” This was the 40th annual event, which has raised more than $5 million since starting in 1983. The Ronald McDonald House organization supports families with children experiencing a critical illness. The Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, and the office of Governor Kim Reynolds co-hosted the event this year.