Last week, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird led a bipartisan coalition of seven Attorneys General urging the Biden Administration to follow the law and allow the sale of year-round E-15. 

Federal law permits Governors to request that the EPA issue the regulations allowing E15 and requires the EPA to issue the regulations within 90 days. 

The sale of E15 has been restricted during the summer peak-driving months due to an outdated provision of the Clean Air Act. 

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds led a bipartisan coalition of Governors making the request on April 22, 2022, but the EPA still has not issued the regulation as required by law. Earlier this month, Governor Reynolds, again wrote to the Biden Administration reiterating her request that the mandatory regulations be issued in response to their request. 

Attorney General Bird and the Attorneys General of Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin signed the letter to the White House and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Last week, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird led a bipartisan coalition of seven Attorneys General urging the Biden Administration to follow the law and allow the sale of year-round E-15. Federal law permits Governors to request that the EPA issue the regulations allowing E15 and requires the EPA to issue the regulations within 90 days. The sale of E15 has been restricted during the summer peak-driving months due to an outdated provision of the Clean Air Act. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds led a bipartisan coalition of Governors making the request on April 22, 2022, but the EPA still has not issued the regulation as required by law. Earlier this month, Governor Reynolds, again wrote to the Biden Administration reiterating her request that the mandatory regulations be issued in response to their request. Attorney General Bird and the Attorneys General of Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin signed the letter to the White House and the Environmental Protection Agency.

State Attorneys General seek year-round E-15

USDA Deputy Secretary Jewell Bronaugh announced she’ll be leaving her post at the end of February. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says his organization has enjoyed working with the deputy secretary for the last two years of her tenure with the agency. 

“We want to thank her for her service to America’s farmers and ranchers,” Duvall says. 

“She has long been someone who understands the needs of farmers and rural communities. We’ve appreciated her leadership and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.” House Ag Committee Ranking Democrat David Scott congratulated Bronaugh on a job well done. 

“Deputy Secretary Bronaugh’s time at the department was historic, serving as the first African American woman in the role,” Scott says. “During her time as Deputy, she uplifted American agriculture and our rural communities, something she’s long done throughout her career.” Scott also says she’s a champion for U.S. food and agriculture.

USDA Deputy Secretary Jewell Bronaugh announced she’ll be leaving her post at the end of February. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says his organization has enjoyed working with the deputy secretary for the last two years of her tenure with the agency. “We want to thank her for her service to America’s farmers and ranchers,” Duvall says. “She has long been someone who understands the needs of farmers and rural communities. We’ve appreciated her leadership and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.” House Ag Committee Ranking Democrat David Scott congratulated Bronaugh on a job well done. “Deputy Secretary Bronaugh’s time at the department was historic, serving as the first African American woman in the role,” Scott says. “During her time as Deputy, she uplifted American agriculture and our rural communities, something she’s long done throughout her career.” Scott also says she’s a champion for U.S. food and agriculture.

Reaction to Bronaugh’s decision to step down from USDA post

The top members of the Senate’s Finance Committee sent a letter to the White House asking the administration to pursue enforcement action against Canada and Mexico under the USMCA. 

Inside Trade says they’re concerned about areas where Canada and Mexico aren’t complying with the agreement’s rules, especially around energy and agriculture. 

Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo, the top Democrat and Republican on the committee, sent the letter saying, “The Office of the USTR must continue pursuing full implementation and, where necessary, robust enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” 

They also noted that the pact’s full potential remains unrealized. Wyden and Crapo highlighted the current dispute with Mexico over its policy regarding GMO corn imports, as well as Canadian failure to comply with the rules regarding tariff-rate quotas on dairy products. 

The U.S. recently requested dispute-settlement consultations for a third time regarding Canada’s dairy policy. U.S. and Mexican discussions recently continued last week.

The top members of the Senate’s Finance Committee sent a letter to the White House asking the administration to pursue enforcement action against Canada and Mexico under the USMCA. Inside Trade says they’re concerned about areas where Canada and Mexico aren’t complying with the agreement’s rules, especially around energy and agriculture. Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo, the top Democrat and Republican on the committee, sent the letter saying, “The Office of the USTR must continue pursuing full implementation and, where necessary, robust enforcement of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.” They also noted that the pact’s full potential remains unrealized. Wyden and Crapo highlighted the current dispute with Mexico over its policy regarding GMO corn imports, as well as Canadian failure to comply with the rules regarding tariff-rate quotas on dairy products. The U.S. recently requested dispute-settlement consultations for a third time regarding Canada’s dairy policy. U.S. and Mexican discussions recently continued last week.

Senators ask White House for enforcement actions on USMCA

Late last week, the Department of Energy announced $118 million in funding to help expand U.S. biofuel production. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the funds will undoubtedly accelerate the innovations taking place at U.S. ethanol plants. 

“It will open many new opportunities for low-cost, low-carbon energy,” Skor says. 

She also points out that the president himself has said there will be no achieving the goal of net zero by 2050 without biofuels, and the announcement shows that the DOE is committed to that mission. 

“We are excited to see new technologies scaled up with these funds, particularly the work underway at Marquis, Inc., a Growth Energy member that received $8 million for a project that combines CO2 with low-carbon hydrogen to create a new production stream of extra-low-carbon ethanol.” A project like that will end up slashing carbon emissions by at least 70 percent or more compared to petroleum-based alternatives.

Late last week, the Department of Energy announced $118 million in funding to help expand U.S. biofuel production. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the funds will undoubtedly accelerate the innovations taking place at U.S. ethanol plants. “It will open many new opportunities for low-cost, low-carbon energy,” Skor says. She also points out that the president himself has said there will be no achieving the goal of net zero by 2050 without biofuels, and the announcement shows that the DOE is committed to that mission. “We are excited to see new technologies scaled up with these funds, particularly the work underway at Marquis, Inc., a Growth Energy member that received $8 million for a project that combines CO2 with low-carbon hydrogen to create a new production stream of extra-low-carbon ethanol.” A project like that will end up slashing carbon emissions by at least 70 percent or more compared to petroleum-based alternatives.

Energy Department allocates $118 million to biofuel projects

The U.S. is currently in a third round of talks to redo the World Trade Organization’s trade dispute arbitration system. 

The U.S. Ambassador to the WTO told Reuters that America wants it to be fully up and running by the end of 2024. 

The WTO’s appeals bench rules on top disputes among nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s been out of service for two years due to U.S. appointment blockages put in place during the Trump Administration. 

The current administration has resisted calls by WTO members to approve the appointments and has been leading the negotiations on how to redo the dispute system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Asked if it was even possible to revive the Appellate Body, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Maria Pagan didn’t say no. 

“It needs a lot of revamping,” she says. The U.S. has criticized the WTO’s alleged overreach and lengthy processes, and it strongly contested some of the WTO’s recent rulings against America.

The U.S. is currently in a third round of talks to redo the World Trade Organization’s trade dispute arbitration system. The U.S. Ambassador to the WTO told Reuters that America wants it to be fully up and running by the end of 2024. The WTO’s appeals bench rules on top disputes among nations.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s been out of service for two years due to U.S. appointment blockages put in place during the Trump Administration. The current administration has resisted calls by WTO members to approve the appointments and has been leading the negotiations on how to redo the dispute system.&nbsp;&nbsp;Asked if it was even possible to revive the Appellate Body, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Maria Pagan didn’t say no. “It needs a lot of revamping,” she says. The U.S. has criticized the WTO’s alleged overreach and lengthy processes, and it strongly contested some of the WTO’s recent rulings against America.

U.S. wants WTO dispute system fixed by 2024

The National FFA Organization Thursday announced its participation in a new community of practice with other nonprofit organizations focused on advancing racial equity. Over the next six months, leaders in the National FFA Organization will work with The Bridgespan Group to strengthen their approach to advancing racial equity internally and externally. 

The Advancing Racial Equity Community of Practice, led by The Bridgespan Group, is funded by the Walmart Foundation. The funding will assist in supporting FFA to collaborate with others to share best practices and learnings on their work to prioritize equity. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “By partnering with other nonprofits through this initiative, we can expand our capacity to seek and promote inclusion and diversity in our membership.” F

FA is participating in the cohort alongside nine organizations: American Red Cross, Center for the Future of Arizona, Education Design Lab, Goodwill Industries International, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, Team Rubicon, The Recycling Partnership, Winrock International, and World Wildlife Fund.

The National FFA Organization Thursday announced its participation in a new community of practice with other nonprofit organizations focused on advancing racial equity. Over the next six months, leaders in the National FFA Organization will work with The Bridgespan Group to strengthen their approach to advancing racial equity internally and externally. The Advancing Racial Equity Community of Practice, led by The Bridgespan Group, is funded by the Walmart Foundation. The funding will assist in supporting FFA to collaborate with others to share best practices and learnings on their work to prioritize equity. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “By partnering with other nonprofits through this initiative, we can expand our capacity to seek and promote inclusion and diversity in our membership.” FFA is participating in the cohort alongside nine organizations: American Red Cross, Center for the Future of Arizona, Education Design Lab, Goodwill Industries International, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, Team Rubicon, The Recycling Partnership, Winrock International, and World Wildlife Fund.

FFA to participate in the advancing racial equity community of practice initiative

A new partnership aims to increase soybean flower and pod retention. This unrealized value could bring $50 per acre or $400 million in economic return for U.S. soybean farmers, according to the United Soybean Board. 

The collaborative focus will test how heat and drought impact flower bud retention. Flower production dictates the final pod number and, ultimately, yield in soybeans. The Atlantic Soybean Council, Mid-South Soybean Board, North Central Soybean Research Program, Southern Soybean Research Program and United Soybean Board all agree this is a priority issue impacting the entire industry. 

Although flower retention is a leading cause of soybean yield loss in the U.S., no organized effort exists to address it. Farmers experience about 30 percent of flower loss under favorable conditions and up to 80 percent under drought and heat stress. Texas Tech University, in collaboration with Kansas State University, the University of Missouri and the University of Tennessee, will lead the research on this national effort.

A new partnership aims to increase soybean flower and pod retention. This unrealized value could bring $50 per acre or $400 million in economic return for U.S. soybean farmers, according to the United Soybean Board. The collaborative focus will test how heat and drought impact flower bud retention. Flower production dictates the final pod number and, ultimately, yield in soybeans. The Atlantic Soybean Council, Mid-South Soybean Board, North Central Soybean Research Program, Southern Soybean Research Program and United Soybean Board all agree this is a priority issue impacting the entire industry. Although flower retention is a leading cause of soybean yield loss in the U.S., no organized effort exists to address it. Farmers experience about 30 percent of flower loss under favorable conditions and up to 80 percent under drought and heat stress. Texas Tech University, in collaboration with Kansas State University, the University of Missouri and the University of Tennessee, will lead the research on this national effort.

Research identifies $400 million in unrealized soybean value

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. 

Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” 

President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. 

Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. 

She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh to step down

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. 

Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. 

"Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. 

The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. 

In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." 

The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. "Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

Senate Ag plans hearings on farm bill trade and Horticulture titles

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. 

The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. 

The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. 

The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. 

The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. 

Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

Consumer Brands Association supports new trucking legislation

Public health advocacy groups filed a lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration this week. 

The groups say the lawsuit challenges the refusal to phase out unnecessary uses of antibiotics in animal agriculture. 

The groups include the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Food Animal Concerns Trust, Public Citizen and Earthjustice. 

They allege that approximately two-thirds of medically important antibiotics sold in the U.S. are for use in food-producing animals and are often administered to healthy animals to compensate for the higher risk of infections typically caused by cramped, unsanitary or stressful conditions. 

The lawsuit claims that the misuse of these medicines has contributed to the rise and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Steven Roach of Food Animal Concerns Trust says, "The FDA has allowed giant meat companies to habitually overuse antibiotics putting everyone's health at risk," adding, "This is absolutely unnecessary as animals raised under healthy conditions do not need routine antibiotics."

Public health advocacy groups filed a lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration this week. The groups say the lawsuit challenges the refusal to phase out unnecessary uses of antibiotics in animal agriculture. The groups include the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Food Animal Concerns Trust, Public Citizen and Earthjustice. They allege that approximately two-thirds of medically important antibiotics sold in the U.S. are for use in food-producing animals and are often administered to healthy animals to compensate for the higher risk of infections typically caused by cramped, unsanitary or stressful conditions. The lawsuit claims that the misuse of these medicines has contributed to the rise and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Steven Roach of Food Animal Concerns Trust says, "The FDA has allowed giant meat companies to habitually overuse antibiotics putting everyone's health at risk," adding, "This is absolutely unnecessary as animals raised under healthy conditions do not need routine antibiotics."

Lawsuit against FDA targets antibiotics use in livestock

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. 

The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. 

In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” 

NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

Corn growers praise Biden officials for stance on biotech corn

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association recently filed a Notice of Intent to sue the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

NCBA is planning the lawsuit over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. 

NCBA Associate Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johannes says, “The lesser prairie chicken only survives today because of the voluntary conservation efforts of ranchers,” adding, “There are numerous places where this listing goes seriously wrong and we are defending cattle producers against this overreaching, unscientific rule.” 

The listing was previously set to take effect at the end of January, but thanks to pressure on the Biden administration from NCBA and our allies in Congress, the rule was delayed by 60 days. 

The listing will now take effect on March 27, 2023, and the states included in the species’ range are Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association recently filed a Notice of Intent to sue the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. NCBA is planning the lawsuit over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. NCBA Associate Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johannes says, “The lesser prairie chicken only survives today because of the voluntary conservation efforts of ranchers,” adding, “There are numerous places where this listing goes seriously wrong and we are defending cattle producers against this overreaching, unscientific rule.” The listing was previously set to take effect at the end of January, but thanks to pressure on the Biden administration from NCBA and our allies in Congress, the rule was delayed by 60 days. The listing will now take effect on March 27, 2023, and the states included in the species’ range are Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado.

NCBA sues Biden Administration to overturn lesser prairie chicken listing

President Joe Biden again nominated Margo Schlanger and Stacy Dean to politically appointed positions at the Department of Agriculture. 

Biden nominated Schlanger to serve as Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and Dean as Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. 

Both were nominated by the President to USDA during the last Congress but were not confirmed by the Senate. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says Dean’s commitment during her time at USDA and throughout her career “makes her the ideal person to serve as Under Secretary for FNCS.” Throughout her life and career, Schlanger has devoted herself to civil rights and to public service. 

At the Department of Homeland Security. Vilsack says, “Schlanger would be able to continue her commitment to public service and civil rights as we at USDA continually seek to fairly and equitably serve our employees and customers.” The nominations of Schlanger and Dean were part of a slate of political appointees announced this week by the White House.

President Joe Biden again nominated Margo Schlanger and Stacy Dean to politically appointed positions at the Department of Agriculture. Biden nominated Schlanger to serve as Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and Dean as Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. Both were nominated by the President to USDA during the last Congress but were not confirmed by the Senate. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says Dean’s commitment during her time at USDA and throughout her career “makes her the ideal person to serve as Under Secretary for FNCS.” Throughout her life and career, Schlanger has devoted herself to civil rights and to public service. At the Department of Homeland Security. Vilsack says, “Schlanger would be able to continue her commitment to public service and civil rights as we at USDA continually seek to fairly and equitably serve our employees and customers.” The nominations of Schlanger and Dean were part of a slate of political appointees announced this week by the White House.

Biden again nominates Dean and Schlanger to USDA

A survey from Farm Futures shows the 2023 acreage battle is ongoing. However, there could be a surprise when it comes to the total number of corn and soybean acres.

 A surge in projected wheat acres and costly inputs will likely limit any expansion of corn and soybean acres. About 70 percent of the respondents said they were locked in on 2023 acreage decisions by late December. Farm Futures says corn and soybean plantings will increase only minimally compared to past projections due in large part to shrinking profit margins for both corn and soybeans. 

The survey shows that 90.5 million acres of corn and 88.9 million acres of soybeans will get planted in the spring. Soaring costs of inputs likely mean more wheat acres as wheat typically requires less nitrogen. Anhydrous ammonia retailed for about $1,400 per ton last fall, so many farmers opted for less nitrogen-intensive crops for 2023 plantings.

A survey from Farm Futures shows the 2023 acreage battle is ongoing. However, there could be a surprise when it comes to the total number of corn and soybean acres. A surge in projected wheat acres and costly inputs will likely limit any expansion of corn and soybean acres. About 70 percent of the respondents said they were locked in on 2023 acreage decisions by late December. Farm Futures says corn and soybean plantings will increase only minimally compared to past projections due in large part to shrinking profit margins for both corn and soybeans. The survey shows that 90.5 million acres of corn and 88.9 million acres of soybeans will get planted in the spring. Soaring costs of inputs likely mean more wheat acres as wheat typically requires less nitrogen. Anhydrous ammonia retailed for about $1,400 per ton last fall, so many farmers opted for less nitrogen-intensive crops for 2023 plantings.

Farm Futures 2023 planting survey results

The USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for its first-ever agricultural trade mission to Amsterdam, Netherlands, April 17-20. 

“Agribusiness producers, exporters, and growers in the U.S. may find the Netherlands to be a perfect gateway into Europe,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Participants will explore exporting opportunities in this mature market, which continues to grow, and meet potential buyers in surrounding regional markets.” U.S. ag and related exports to the Netherlands reached $3.4 billion in 2021, making it the tenth-largest global market. 

During the trade mission, U.S. participants will meet with buyers from the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Belgium, and Germany. For companies interested in expanding sales in the Netherlands and the other markets, export opportunities include oilseeds, fats, vegetables, oils, grains, pulses, and many other exports. The deadline to apply for the Netherlands trade mission is Thursday, January 26. For information, go to fas.usda.gov.

The USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for its first-ever agricultural trade mission to Amsterdam, Netherlands, April 17-20. “Agribusiness producers, exporters, and growers in the U.S. may find the Netherlands to be a perfect gateway into Europe,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Participants will explore exporting opportunities in this mature market, which continues to grow, and meet potential buyers in surrounding regional markets.” U.S. ag and related exports to the Netherlands reached $3.4 billion in 2021, making it the tenth-largest global market. During the trade mission, U.S. participants will meet with buyers from the Netherlands, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Belgium, and Germany. For companies interested in expanding sales in the Netherlands and the other markets, export opportunities include oilseeds, fats, vegetables, oils, grains, pulses, and many other exports. The deadline to apply for the Netherlands trade mission is Thursday, January 26. For information, go to fas.usda.gov.

USDA accepting applications for Netherlands trade mission

The USDA announced additional assistance for U.S. dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program. The agency also announced a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. 

The moves will help USDA better support small- and medium-sized dairy operations that weathered COVID and now face other challenges. “USDA is announcing a second set of payments totaling almost $100 million to close out the $350 million commitment under the pandemic assistance program,” says USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “The funds will be released through partnerships with dairy handlers and cooperatives to deliver the payments.” 

USDA will also be releasing new assistance targeted to small- and medium-sized organic dairy farmers. The goal will be to help those producers with anticipated marketing costs as they face a variety of challenges from weather to supply-chain challenges. For more information on USDA assistance, go to farmers.gov.

The USDA announced additional assistance for U.S. dairy producers, including a second round of payments through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program. The agency also announced a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. The moves will help USDA better support small- and medium-sized dairy operations that weathered COVID and now face other challenges. “USDA is announcing a second set of payments totaling almost $100 million to close out the $350 million commitment under the pandemic assistance program,” says USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “The funds will be released through partnerships with dairy handlers and cooperatives to deliver the payments.” USDA will also be releasing new assistance targeted to small- and medium-sized organic dairy farmers. The goal will be to help those producers with anticipated marketing costs as they face a variety of challenges from weather to supply-chain challenges. For more information on USDA assistance, go to farmers.gov.

USDA announces additional assistance for dairy farmers

A U.S. farm group is asking the Federal Trade Commission to look into the high prices of eggs and possible price gouging. 

Farm Action is a farmer-led advocacy organization that sent a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan to share their concerns over “apparent price gouging.” 

They point out that Americans are paying more than ever for an important household staple. 

The USDA says a recent record outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza is the reason for the high prices. The group says the nation’s top antitrust regulator must look into the record-high profits of the nation’s top egg company. 

Cal-Maine Foods controls 20 percent of the retail egg market and reported a quarterly sales increase of 110 percent. Gross profits are 600 percent higher than the same time last year. The company says avian flu is driving up prices. However, Cal-Maine had no positive flu tests on any of its farms.

A U.S. farm group is asking the Federal Trade Commission to look into the high prices of eggs and possible price gouging. Farm Action is a farmer-led advocacy organization that sent a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan to share their concerns over “apparent price gouging.” They point out that Americans are paying more than ever for an important household staple. The USDA says a recent record outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza is the reason for the high prices. The group says the nation’s top antitrust regulator must look into the record-high profits of the nation’s top egg company. Cal-Maine Foods controls 20 percent of the retail egg market and reported a quarterly sales increase of 110 percent. Gross profits are 600 percent higher than the same time last year. The company says avian flu is driving up prices. However, Cal-Maine had no positive flu tests on any of its farms.

Farm group wants investigation into egg prices

Clean Fuels Alliance America will kick off the Clean Fuels Conference on Monday, January 23 at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida. 

The event runs through Thursday and will likely draw more than 725 registered participants, including agricultural interests, clean fuel producers, marketers, end users, and more. 

It’s the 20th annual industry conference formerly known as the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo. 

This is the first-ever Clean Fuels Conference. “Companies know consumers want to feel better about their purchases,” says Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Low-carbon transportation fuels in planes, trains, ships, and trucks will have to be the focus of their efforts.” 

The theme of this year’s conference is “United As One.” It’s designed to highlight the industry’s commitment to bringing together stakeholders to build a sustainable transportation future. The clean fuels industry set a goal of producing six billion gallons a year of sustainable fuels by 2030.

Clean Fuels Alliance America will kick off the Clean Fuels Conference on Monday, January 23 at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida. The event runs through Thursday and will likely draw more than 725 registered participants, including agricultural interests, clean fuel producers, marketers, end users, and more. It’s the 20th annual industry conference formerly known as the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo. This is the first-ever Clean Fuels Conference. “Companies know consumers want to feel better about their purchases,” says Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Low-carbon transportation fuels in planes, trains, ships, and trucks will have to be the focus of their efforts.” The theme of this year’s conference is “United As One.” It’s designed to highlight the industry’s commitment to bringing together stakeholders to build a sustainable transportation future. The clean fuels industry set a goal of producing six billion gallons a year of sustainable fuels by 2030.

Clean Fuels conference begins Monday

The Fertilizer Institute selected three farmers and their fertilizer retailers as 4R advocates. 

They’re being recognized for their commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices that incorporate the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship and have demonstrated economic and environmental benefits. 

Now in its 12th year, the 4R Advocate Program demonstrates the in-field successes of implementing 4R practices based on the right source, rate, time, and placement of fertilizer. 

“While 4R Nutrient Stewardship is a priority for the fertilizer industry, it’s also a tangible solution for thousands of farmers across America who are seeking fertilizer application practices that have a real-world impact on their bottom lines and their land,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. 

The 2023 class of advocates represent 13,770 acres across three states and grow corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and other crops. In 2021, the fertilizer industry committed to putting 70 million acres of cropland under 4R management by 2030. &nbsp;

The Fertilizer Institute selected three farmers and their fertilizer retailers as 4R advocates. They’re being recognized for their commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices that incorporate the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship and have demonstrated economic and environmental benefits. Now in its 12th year, the 4R Advocate Program demonstrates the in-field successes of implementing 4R practices based on the right source, rate, time, and placement of fertilizer. “While 4R Nutrient Stewardship is a priority for the fertilizer industry, it’s also a tangible solution for thousands of farmers across America who are seeking fertilizer application practices that have a real-world impact on their bottom lines and their land,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. The 2023 class of advocates represent 13,770 acres across three states and grow corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and other crops. In 2021, the fertilizer industry committed to putting 70 million acres of cropland under 4R management by 2030. &nbsp;

Fertilizer Institute names 2023 4R advocates

Groups representing agriculture, infrastructure, housing, and petroleum filed a legal challenge to the new Waters of the U.S. Rule. 

“The Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition is an attack on farmers and ranchers, and we’ll be fighting back in court,” says Mary-Thomas Hart, chief counsel for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. 

“The rule removes longstanding exclusions for small and isolated water features on farms and ranches and adds to the regulatory burden farmers already face.” 

Non-agriculture groups in the lawsuit include the American Petroleum Institute, the Associated General Contractors of America, and many others. “The new rule creates uncertainty for farmers and ranchers even if they’re miles from the nearest navigable water,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. 

“We believe a judge will see these regulations exceed the scope of the Clean Water Act.” A Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA could require the EPA to start over again on defining WOTUS.

Groups representing agriculture, infrastructure, housing, and petroleum filed a legal challenge to the new Waters of the U.S. Rule. “The Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition is an attack on farmers and ranchers, and we’ll be fighting back in court,” says Mary-Thomas Hart, chief counsel for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “The rule removes longstanding exclusions for small and isolated water features on farms and ranches and adds to the regulatory burden farmers already face.” Non-agriculture groups in the lawsuit include the American Petroleum Institute, the Associated General Contractors of America, and many others. “The new rule creates uncertainty for farmers and ranchers even if they’re miles from the nearest navigable water,” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “We believe a judge will see these regulations exceed the scope of the Clean Water Act.” A Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA could require the EPA to start over again on defining WOTUS.

Groups file legal challenges to new WOTUS Rule

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President-Elect Todd Wilkinson released a statement on the USDA’s proposed rule on electronic identification for transporting cattle over state lines. 

“As USDA has worked toward a nationally significant traceability program, NCBA has engaged with industry stakeholders and USDA to ensure that cattle producers are represented and protected,” says Wilkinson, who also chairs the NCBA Traceability Working Group. 

“Any program must allow maximum flexibility and privacy while minimizing costs for producers and any industry disruptions.” 

NCBA also says foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks around the world continue to result in disruptions to commerce and depopulate livestock. That means immediate action is needed. 

“NCBA is committed to working with USDA to ensure workable solutions are identified and implemented,” Wilkinson says. The organization also says that cattle producers can be confident that any finished product will protect the nation’s livestock herd. The NCBA is continuing to review the proposed rule in its entirety.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President-Elect Todd Wilkinson released a statement on the USDA’s proposed rule on electronic identification for transporting cattle over state lines. “As USDA has worked toward a nationally significant traceability program, NCBA has engaged with industry stakeholders and USDA to ensure that cattle producers are represented and protected,” says Wilkinson, who also chairs the NCBA Traceability Working Group. “Any program must allow maximum flexibility and privacy while minimizing costs for producers and any industry disruptions.” NCBA also says foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks around the world continue to result in disruptions to commerce and depopulate livestock. That means immediate action is needed. “NCBA is committed to working with USDA to ensure workable solutions are identified and implemented,” Wilkinson says. The organization also says that cattle producers can be confident that any finished product will protect the nation’s livestock herd. The NCBA is continuing to review the proposed rule in its entirety.

NCBA statement on USDA’s proposed traceability rule

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced his agency is expanding efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires in the western U.S. 

Funds will be invested to directly protect at-risk communities and critical infrastructure in 11 additional landscapes in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. 

“It’s no longer a matter of if a wildfire will threaten many western communities, it’s a matter of when,” Vilsack says. 

“This announcement means over $490 million will be used to restore national forests, including the restoration of resilient old-growth forest conditions.” The Forest Service announced its original ten landscape project areas last year. 

Combined with the additional announcement this week, that represents a total USDA investment of $930 million across 45 million acres. The work spans 134 of the 250 highest-risk fire sheds identified in the Wildfire Crisis Strategy and will mitigate the wildfire risk for around 200 communities in the western United States.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced his agency is expanding efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires in the western U.S. Funds will be invested to directly protect at-risk communities and critical infrastructure in 11 additional landscapes in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. “It’s no longer a matter of if a wildfire will threaten many western communities, it’s a matter of when,” Vilsack says. “This announcement means over $490 million will be used to restore national forests, including the restoration of resilient old-growth forest conditions.” The Forest Service announced its original ten landscape project areas last year. Combined with the additional announcement this week, that represents a total USDA investment of $930 million across 45 million acres. The work spans 134 of the 250 highest-risk fire sheds identified in the Wildfire Crisis Strategy and will mitigate the wildfire risk for around 200 communities in the western United States.

USDA investing funds to reduce wildfire risk

The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers published the revised Waters of the U.S. rule in the Federal Register Wednesday.

The publication means the revised rule will go into effect on March 20, 2023.

EPA and the Army Corps announced the rule at the end of 2022, which will replace the Navigable Waters Protection Rule.

At the time, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented, “EPA has doubled down on the old significant nexus test, creating more complicated regulations that will impose a quagmire of regulatory uncertainty.”

The rule comes as agriculture awaits a Supreme Court decision in the Sacketts vs. EPA case, which could send WOTUS back to the drawing board. However, the Sackett case is not focused on the new rule. AFBF General Counsel Travis Cushman says, “you would probably need to have a new challenge to that rule,” based on the Sackett Supreme Court decision.

The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers published the revised Waters of the U.S. rule in the Federal Register Wednesday.The publication means the revised rule will go into effect on March 20, 2023.EPA and the Army Corps announced the rule at the end of 2022, which will replace the Navigable Waters Protection Rule.At the time, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented, “EPA has doubled down on the old significant nexus test, creating more complicated regulations that will impose a quagmire of regulatory uncertainty.”The rule comes as agriculture awaits a Supreme Court decision in the Sacketts vs. EPA case, which could send WOTUS back to the drawing board. However, the Sackett case is not focused on the new rule. AFBF General Counsel Travis Cushman says, “you would probably need to have a new challenge to that rule,” based on the Sackett Supreme Court decision.

EPA posts revised WOTUS to Federal Register

The Producer Price Index for final demand declined 0.5 percent in December, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday. 

The index measures the average change over time in the selling prices received by domestic producers for their output. 

Final demand prices advanced 0.2 percent in November and 0.4 percent in October. 

The index for final demand increased 6.2 percent in 2022 after rising 10.0 percent in 2021. Prices for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services edged up 0.1 percent in December, up 4.6 percent in 2022, following a seven percent rise in 2021. 

Nearly half of the December decrease for final demand goods can be traced to a 13.4-percent decline in prices for gasoline. 

The indexes for diesel fuel, jet fuel, fresh and dry vegetables, canned, cooked, smoked, or prepared poultry, and basic organic chemicals also fell. In contrast, prices for carbon steel scrap increased 8.3 percent. The indexes for chicken eggs and for electric power also moved higher.

The Producer Price Index for final demand declined 0.5 percent in December, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday. The index measures the average change over time in the selling prices received by domestic producers for their output. Final demand prices advanced 0.2 percent in November and 0.4 percent in October. The index for final demand increased 6.2 percent in 2022 after rising 10.0 percent in 2021. Prices for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services edged up 0.1 percent in December, up 4.6 percent in 2022, following a seven percent rise in 2021. Nearly half of the December decrease for final demand goods can be traced to a 13.4-percent decline in prices for gasoline. The indexes for diesel fuel, jet fuel, fresh and dry vegetables, canned, cooked, smoked, or prepared poultry, and basic organic chemicals also fell. In contrast, prices for carbon steel scrap increased 8.3 percent. The indexes for chicken eggs and for electric power also moved higher.