The largest barge operator in the U.S. told its customers last week that it won’t be able to make good on deliveries due to the shrinking Mississippi River. 

Bloomberg says Ingram Barge Company declared a force majeure in a letter to customers because of the “near-historic” low water along the Mississippi River. 

The river is the top way to get American grains exported to the world market. 

Drought has dropped the water level far enough that ships are beginning to run aground. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to stuck vessels in at least two places, including Stack Island between Louisiana and Mississippi and upriver near Memphis. 

American Commercial Barge Line, another shipping company that uses the river to transport goods, says the drought is causing the most severe impact on navigation since 1988. The logjam comes at the worst time as grain harvest is in progress, and supplies will pile up.

The largest barge operator in the U.S. told its customers last week that it won’t be able to make good on deliveries due to the shrinking Mississippi River. Bloomberg says Ingram Barge Company declared a force majeure in a letter to customers because of the “near-historic” low water along the Mississippi River. The river is the top way to get American grains exported to the world market. Drought has dropped the water level far enough that ships are beginning to run aground. The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to stuck vessels in at least two places, including Stack Island between Louisiana and Mississippi and upriver near Memphis. American Commercial Barge Line, another shipping company that uses the river to transport goods, says the drought is causing the most severe impact on navigation since 1988. The logjam comes at the worst time as grain harvest is in progress, and supplies will pile up.

Barge operator can’t make deliveries due to dry Mississippi River

Drought intensified in many of the nation’s top corn-growing states during the past week. 

Nationally, 321.6 million acres of crops are experiencing some level of drought, while more than 31 million beef cattle across the country are living with drought. 

The latest drought monitor map shows a pocket of D2 severe drought emerging in Illinois with poor crop conditions and low hay yield in that region. 

While drought conditions in Texas have improved recently, pockets of D4 exceptional drought are still present in one percent of the state. D3 extreme drought covers 12 percent of Texas. 

Drought also intensified in Minnesota, which saw its first area of D3 extreme drought since last December. Wisconsin’s D2 severe drought in the northwest corner spread out to cover four percent of the state. A small part of Iowa is experiencing D4 exceptional drought, while five percent of the Hawkeye State is experiencing D3 extreme drought.

Drought intensified in many of the nation’s top corn-growing states during the past week. Nationally, 321.6 million acres of crops are experiencing some level of drought, while more than 31 million beef cattle across the country are living with drought. The latest drought monitor map shows a pocket of D2 severe drought emerging in Illinois with poor crop conditions and low hay yield in that region. While drought conditions in Texas have improved recently, pockets of D4 exceptional drought are still present in one percent of the state. D3 extreme drought covers 12 percent of Texas. Drought also intensified in Minnesota, which saw its first area of D3 extreme drought since last December. Wisconsin’s D2 severe drought in the northwest corner spread out to cover four percent of the state. A small part of Iowa is experiencing D4 exceptional drought, while five percent of the Hawkeye State is experiencing D3 extreme drought.

Drought conditions cover 321 million acres of crops

U.S. pork exports in August topped year-ago totals for the first time in 2022. 

USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports were slightly above the large volumes of last August and once again surpassed $1 billion in value. 

“We talk about the importance of developing a wide range of markets for U.S. red meat, and the August numbers are a great example of that,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. 

“Exports face significant headwinds in some key destinations. However, the emphasis on broad-based growth pays dividends and allows the overall export picture to remain positive.” 

Pork exports reached 226,300 metric tons, the largest total since November 2021, while the value rose four percent to $659 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef exports topped 133,800 metric tons, up one percent from last year and the second-largest volume on record, with the export value at just under $1.04 billion.

U.S. pork exports in August topped year-ago totals for the first time in 2022. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports were slightly above the large volumes of last August and once again surpassed $1 billion in value. “We talk about the importance of developing a wide range of markets for U.S. red meat, and the August numbers are a great example of that,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Exports face significant headwinds in some key destinations. However, the emphasis on broad-based growth pays dividends and allows the overall export picture to remain positive.” Pork exports reached 226,300 metric tons, the largest total since November 2021, while the value rose four percent to $659 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;Beef exports topped 133,800 metric tons, up one percent from last year and the second-largest volume on record, with the export value at just under $1.04 billion.

August pork exports higher while beef again tops $1 billion

The Renewable Fuels Association recently filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit over the Renewable Fuel Standard. 

The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the agency seeking a court review of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS for compliance years 2020 through 2022. 

The RFA is intervening on behalf of the agency to help stress the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard. 

The biofuel group’s goal is to “protect EPA’s substantial interest in the integrity of the RFS and investments RFA’s members have made in renewable fuels to support the program,” the motion states. 

“After years of mismanagement and setbacks by previous administrations, the Biden administration’s EPA is moving in the right direction on the RFS,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We’re looking to intervene in the case so EPA can continue putting the RFS back on track.”

The Renewable Fuels Association recently filed a motion to intervene on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency in a lawsuit over the Renewable Fuel Standard. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against the agency seeking a court review of EPA’s Renewable Volume Obligations under the RFS for compliance years 2020 through 2022. The RFA is intervening on behalf of the agency to help stress the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard. The biofuel group’s goal is to “protect EPA’s substantial interest in the integrity of the RFS and investments RFA’s members have made in renewable fuels to support the program,” the motion states. “After years of mismanagement and setbacks by previous administrations, the Biden administration’s EPA is moving in the right direction on the RFS,” says RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We’re looking to intervene in the case so EPA can continue putting the RFS back on track.”

Biofuel group intervening in legal attack on RFS

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation that would shield agricultural producers from a climate disclosure rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “U.S. farmers and ranchers absolutely need this exemption from the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. 

Our producer-members already face nearly insurmountable proposed and ongoing regulatory burdens from an array of federal agencies.” 

Miller also says producers’ main job should be putting American beef on American plates, not managing the complex clerical duties of SEC compliance rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The “Protect America’s Farmers from the SEC Act” prohibits the SEC from requiring an issuer of securities to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from upstream and downstream activities in the issuer’s value chain arising from a farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The SEC’s proposed rule says registrants would be required to disclose information about their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks.

More than 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation that would shield agricultural producers from a climate disclosure rule proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “U.S. farmers and ranchers absolutely need this exemption from the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. Our producer-members already face nearly insurmountable proposed and ongoing regulatory burdens from an array of federal agencies.” Miller also says producers’ main job should be putting American beef on American plates, not managing the complex clerical duties of SEC compliance rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;The “Protect America’s Farmers from the SEC Act” prohibits the SEC from requiring an issuer of securities to disclose greenhouse gas emissions from upstream and downstream activities in the issuer’s value chain arising from a farm.&nbsp;&nbsp;The SEC’s proposed rule says registrants would be required to disclose information about their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related risks.

U.S. Cattlemen’s Association applauds SEC Protection Bill

The World Trade Organization is predicting a slowdown in global trade growth next year. 

Reuters says the pullback is because of sharply-higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates that will limit import demand. 

The WTO also says global trade could contract further if the war in Ukraine worsens. 

For 2023, the organization sees trade growth at just one percent compared to a previous forecast of 3.4 percent growth. The WTO director-general says there’s a lot of unpredictability in its forecast, noting that the picture for 2023 is “considerably darker” and the risks for next year’s forecast were more toward the downside. 

Weather events hitting food-producing regions or damaging energy export infrastructure could further slow trade growth in 2023. The WTO is also warning countries against being tempted to put trade restrictions in place. The group says trade restrictions would only deepen inflationary pressures and reduce living standards.

The World Trade Organization is predicting a slowdown in global trade growth next year. Reuters says the pullback is because of sharply-higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates that will limit import demand. The WTO also says global trade could contract further if the war in Ukraine worsens. For 2023, the organization sees trade growth at just one percent compared to a previous forecast of 3.4 percent growth. The WTO director-general says there’s a lot of unpredictability in its forecast, noting that the picture for 2023 is “considerably darker” and the risks for next year’s forecast were more toward the downside. Weather events hitting food-producing regions or damaging energy export infrastructure could further slow trade growth in 2023. The WTO is also warning countries against being tempted to put trade restrictions in place. The group says trade restrictions would only deepen inflationary pressures and reduce living standards.

WTO: Contraction in global trade growth during 2023

Senators John Thune and Ben Ray Luján recently introduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act. 

The bipartisan legislation by the South Dakota Republican and New Mexico Democrat would improve the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple Department of Agriculture programs that assist farmers and ranchers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. 

The legislation would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which triggers certain disaster programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thune says, “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to farmers and ranchers when they need it the most.” 

The legislation would update the Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program to clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs. 

The bill also allows the Farm Service Agency to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency, among other changes.

Senators John Thune and Ben Ray Luján recently introduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act. The bipartisan legislation by the South Dakota Republican and New Mexico Democrat would improve the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple Department of Agriculture programs that assist farmers and ranchers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. The legislation would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor, which triggers certain disaster programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thune says, “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to farmers and ranchers when they need it the most.” The legislation would update the Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program to clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs. The bill also allows the Farm Service Agency to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management National Environmental Policy Act applications during a drought emergency, among other changes.

Thune introduces bill to improve Livestock Disaster Assistance

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed restrictions on atrazine. 

One of the most widely used herbicides in corn production, the proposed revisions by EPA would severely limit the use of atrazine. 

Secretary Naig tells the EPA that further restricting the use of atrazine will negatively impact pest resistance management and conservation efforts. 

In his comments, Naig says, "The EPA proposed picklist approach to managing atrazine is complicated, costly, and not feasible for Iowa farmers, landowners, and pesticide applicators." Further, he urges the EPA to listen to feedback from farmers and "adopt atrazine use requirements that are based on the best available science." 

In October 2020, EPA received a petition alleging that the Agency violated its duties under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by issuing the atrazine reregistration without substantial evidence supporting the decision. The comment period on the proposal ends Friday.

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig this week submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed restrictions on atrazine. One of the most widely used herbicides in corn production, the proposed revisions by EPA would severely limit the use of atrazine. Secretary Naig tells the EPA that further restricting the use of atrazine will negatively impact pest resistance management and conservation efforts. In his comments, Naig says, "The EPA proposed picklist approach to managing atrazine is complicated, costly, and not feasible for Iowa farmers, landowners, and pesticide applicators." Further, he urges the EPA to listen to feedback from farmers and "adopt atrazine use requirements that are based on the best available science." In October 2020, EPA received a petition alleging that the Agency violated its duties under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act by issuing the atrazine reregistration without substantial evidence supporting the decision. The comment period on the proposal ends Friday.

Iowa Ag Secretary: Atrazine restrictions will negatively impact conservation efforts

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee recently urged the Department of Agriculture to expand margin protection tools under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. 

Citing record high input costs and extreme volatility in commodity prices, Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman say the expansion would “allow producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these tools and better manage production cost risk by next fall.” 

Farmers are heading into the second consecutive planting season with elevated fertilizer and diesel prices while crop prices are getting more volatile. 

The letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urges margin protection, already in place for dairy, cattle and swine, and certain crops, should be thoughtfully expanded in a timely manner. 

As the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation considers expanding existing tools or developing new ones, the lawmakers say, "We urge the department to immediately prioritize additional and extensive risk management education for both producers and agents" on the policies currently available.

Leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee recently urged the Department of Agriculture to expand margin protection tools under the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. Citing record high input costs and extreme volatility in commodity prices, Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman say the expansion would “allow producers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these tools and better manage production cost risk by next fall.” Farmers are heading into the second consecutive planting season with elevated fertilizer and diesel prices while crop prices are getting more volatile. The letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urges margin protection, already in place for dairy, cattle and swine, and certain crops, should be thoughtfully expanded in a timely manner. As the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation considers expanding existing tools or developing new ones, the lawmakers say, "We urge the department to immediately prioritize additional and extensive risk management education for both producers and agents" on the policies currently available.

Senate Ag leadership urges USDA to expand margin protection tools

Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food to Fort Myers, Florida, to help with recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ian. 

The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based non-profit that deploys to disaster zones across America. 

They will help serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality, hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in Fort Myers. 

“Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager with Smithfield. “We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the long and difficult road to recovery.” 

Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, says, “Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in the wake of Hurricane Ian.”

Smithfield Foods is sending more than 37,000 pounds of food to Fort Myers, Florida, to help with recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ian. The protein will be delivered to Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based non-profit that deploys to disaster zones across America. They will help serve free chef-prepared, restaurant-quality, hot meals to victims, volunteers, and first responders in Fort Myers. “Our hearts go out to everyone in the path of this catastrophic hurricane,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community affairs manager with Smithfield. “We hope this food assistance brings some relief to the people of Fort Myers as they start down the long and difficult road to recovery.” Chef Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, says, “Our continued partnership with Smithfield Foods is critical to feeding those who have lost everything. We’re honored to have the opportunity to serve those facing extreme devastation in the wake of Hurricane Ian.”

Smithfield Foods sending 150,000 servings of food for hurricane relief

A Mexican presidential decree to ban genetically modified corn in 2024 would have severe economic consequences for the U.S. and Mexican economies. 

A study from World Perspectives, Inc., says the move will result in a loss of billions for America’s farmers and higher prices for Mexican consumers. 

The net economic loss for the U.S. corn industry in the first year of the ban will be $3.56 billion. 

The U.S. ethanol industry, including DDGS, will incur a net loss of $521.5 million after accounting for gains from lower GM corn prices. Overall, the U.S. economy would lose $73.89 billion in economic output. 

During a ten-year forecast, the GM corn ban will increase the cost of corn by an average of 19 percent. &nbsp;That will inflate the cost of most foods and other goods for Mexicans. Poultry meat prices will jump by 67 percent because of a 13.7 percent increase in the cost of feed.

A Mexican presidential decree to ban genetically modified corn in 2024 would have severe economic consequences for the U.S. and Mexican economies. A study from World Perspectives, Inc., says the move will result in a loss of billions for America’s farmers and higher prices for Mexican consumers. The net economic loss for the U.S. corn industry in the first year of the ban will be $3.56 billion. The U.S. ethanol industry, including DDGS, will incur a net loss of $521.5 million after accounting for gains from lower GM corn prices. Overall, the U.S. economy would lose $73.89 billion in economic output. During a ten-year forecast, the GM corn ban will increase the cost of corn by an average of 19 percent. &nbsp;That will inflate the cost of most foods and other goods for Mexicans. Poultry meat prices will jump by 67 percent because of a 13.7 percent increase in the cost of feed.

Mexico’s proposed GMO corn ban will cost U.S. producers billions

Extremely dry conditions are putting a strain on the Fed’s Eleventh District. Ag bankers responding to a third-quarter survey report overall weaker economic conditions because of drought that’s pressuring agricultural production. 

The cotton crop and pastureland are especially hurting because of a lack of moisture. “The Southern Plains cotton crop is a disaster,” one survey participant says. 

“Almost all dryland crop has already been abandoned because of drought, and the irrigated crop still standing is pitiful.” 

Ag loan demand decreased during the third quarter of this year, the third-straight drop in the past three quarters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Loan renewals or extensions fell for the seventh-straight quarter, but the rate of loan repayments increased. 

Loan volume decreased for all categories compared with last year. Ranchland and dryland values rose during the quarter, while irrigated cropland values were steady. Cropland, dryland, and ranchland values increased the most in Texas, rising at least 10 percent year-over-year.

Extremely dry conditions are putting a strain on the Fed’s Eleventh District. Ag bankers responding to a third-quarter survey report overall weaker economic conditions because of drought that’s pressuring agricultural production. The cotton crop and pastureland are especially hurting because of a lack of moisture. “The Southern Plains cotton crop is a disaster,” one survey participant says. “Almost all dryland crop has already been abandoned because of drought, and the irrigated crop still standing is pitiful.” Ag loan demand decreased during the third quarter of this year, the third-straight drop in the past three quarters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Loan renewals or extensions fell for the seventh-straight quarter, but the rate of loan repayments increased. Loan volume decreased for all categories compared with last year. Ranchland and dryland values rose during the quarter, while irrigated cropland values were steady. Cropland, dryland, and ranchland values increased the most in Texas, rising at least 10 percent year-over-year.

Southern Plains economic conditions weakening

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri senators on Tuesday passed $40 million in annual tax breaks for farmers, ranchers and other agriculture-related businesses as part of a special legislative session.

Senators voted 26-3 in favor of the tax incentive package, which primarily renewed tax credits that had expired. The measure includes tax credits to benefit companies involved in meat processing, biodiesel, ethanol fuel and urban farms. It also expands government loan programs for farmers.

“The bill that we passed is a big win for rural Missouri," Republican Senate President Pro Tem Dave Schatz told reporters Tuesday.

Republican Sen. Mike Moon, a cattle rancher, during Tuesday debate raised concerns about foreign-owned Missouri farm companies benefitting from the tax breaks. Moon voted against the bill.

“We want to protect Missouri farmland for our families who come after us,” Moon said, adding that he wants “to make sure it stays in the hands of Missourians.”

Republican state Sen. Jason Bean, a farmer who ushered the agricultural tax credits through the Senate, said he expects lawmakers to debate foreign ownership of Missouri farms during the next legislative session, which begins in January.

The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar agricultural tax credits during the regular legislative session, which ended in May.

GOP Gov. Mike Parson vetoed the measure, citing a two-year sunset attached to many of the tax credits that he said was too short. He called lawmakers back for a special session to extend agricultural tax breaks for another six years, as well as spend some of the state’s revenue surplus on an income tax cut for individuals.

The House last week sent Parson a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">cut individual income taxes</a>&nbsp;from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year and phase in additional cuts until the rate hits 4.5%.

The Senate's passage of the agricultural tax incentive bill caps off the rest of lawmakers' unfinished business for the special legislative session.

Parson has not indicated when he will sign the bills.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594500802802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri senators on Tuesday passed $40 million in annual tax breaks for farmers, ranchers and other agriculture-related businesses as part of a special legislative session.Senators voted 26-3 in favor of the tax incentive package, which primarily renewed tax credits that had expired. The measure includes tax credits to benefit companies involved in meat processing, biodiesel, ethanol fuel and urban farms. It also expands government loan programs for farmers.“The bill that we passed is a big win for rural Missouri," Republican Senate President Pro Tem Dave Schatz told reporters Tuesday.Republican Sen. Mike Moon, a cattle rancher, during Tuesday debate raised concerns about foreign-owned Missouri farm companies benefitting from the tax breaks. Moon voted against the bill.“We want to protect Missouri farmland for our families who come after us,” Moon said, adding that he wants “to make sure it stays in the hands of Missourians.”Republican state Sen. Jason Bean, a farmer who ushered the agricultural tax credits through the Senate, said he expects lawmakers to debate foreign ownership of Missouri farms during the next legislative session, which begins in January.The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar agricultural tax credits during the regular legislative session, which ended in May.GOP Gov. Mike Parson vetoed the measure, citing a two-year sunset attached to many of the tax credits that he said was too short. He called lawmakers back for a special session to extend agricultural tax breaks for another six years, as well as spend some of the state’s revenue surplus on an income tax cut for individuals.The House last week sent Parson a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">cut individual income taxes</a>&nbsp;from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year and phase in additional cuts until the rate hits 4.5%.The Senate's passage of the agricultural tax incentive bill caps off the rest of lawmakers' unfinished business for the special legislative session.Parson has not indicated when he will sign the bills.

Missouri lawmakers approve $40M in tax breaks for farmers

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association called on the Environmental Protection Agency to pause their Waters of the United States rulemaking. 

The action follows Monday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in the case Sackett v. EPA, a case that will determine the EPA’s authority to regulate bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. 

NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover says, "we call on the EPA to suspend their rulemaking until the outcome of the case is clear." 

In April, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, calling for a new test for determining whether a water feature fell under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. 

NCBA's argument would allow the government to protect substantial bodies of water while preventing overreach on small isolated agricultural water features. 

NCBA also commented on the Biden administration's proposed "Waters of the U.S." rule. NCBA calls for this rulemaking to halt until the Supreme Court issues a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association called on the Environmental Protection Agency to pause their Waters of the United States rulemaking. The action follows Monday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in the case Sackett v. EPA, a case that will determine the EPA’s authority to regulate bodies of water under the Clean Water Act. NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover says, "we call on the EPA to suspend their rulemaking until the outcome of the case is clear." In April, NCBA filed an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, calling for a new test for determining whether a water feature fell under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act. NCBA's argument would allow the government to protect substantial bodies of water while preventing overreach on small isolated agricultural water features. NCBA also commented on the Biden administration's proposed "Waters of the U.S." rule. NCBA calls for this rulemaking to halt until the Supreme Court issues a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case.

NCBA urges EPA to pause WOTUS rulemaking

The Florida Farm Bureau says farmers and ranchers are facing widespread destruction of crops, buildings and fencing from Hurricane Ian last week. 

Florida Farm Bureau is working with its members to assess the damage. The organization says significant fruit has been dropped from the trees in areas of the citrus belt. 

Fall vegetables once rooted are now lost. Not only has there been loss of human life, but livestock and dairy farms have been devastated by the wrath of Hurricane Ian. 

Farmers and ranchers are repairing greenhouses, structures, irrigation systems and other machinery and equipment throughout the region. Many farm families are still cutting their way through down trees and power lines and battling flooded roads and blown-out culverts to evaluate the damage. 

One thing is for certain, the organization says, is that "Florida farmers and ranchers remain unwavering in their commitment to produce the food and fiber that millions of Americans depend on."

The Florida Farm Bureau says farmers and ranchers are facing widespread destruction of crops, buildings and fencing from Hurricane Ian last week. Florida Farm Bureau is working with its members to assess the damage. The organization says significant fruit has been dropped from the trees in areas of the citrus belt. Fall vegetables once rooted are now lost. Not only has there been loss of human life, but livestock and dairy farms have been devastated by the wrath of Hurricane Ian. Farmers and ranchers are repairing greenhouses, structures, irrigation systems and other machinery and equipment throughout the region. Many farm families are still cutting their way through down trees and power lines and battling flooded roads and blown-out culverts to evaluate the damage. One thing is for certain, the organization says, is that "Florida farmers and ranchers remain unwavering in their commitment to produce the food and fiber that millions of Americans depend on."

Hurricane Ian devastates Southwest Florida agriculture

The American Farm Bureau Federation announced the opening of general registration Monday for the 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention. 

The convention will be held in-person January 6-11, 2023, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

AFBF assessed the status of San Juan and the convention facilities following Hurricane Fiona and determined that all are fully operational. 

AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This is your opportunity to gain insights about the future of agriculture, sharpen your skills and help define the agenda in Washington.” 

Workshop topics include the 2023 farm bill, policy updates, market outlooks, trade, the latest ag education resources and strategies for coping with farm stress. 

An exciting aspect of the convention is the opportunity for farmers and ranchers from the 50 states to see and learn about crops and agricultural practices unique to Puerto Rico. You can view the high-level convention agenda and register online to attend at annualconvention.fb.org.

The American Farm Bureau Federation announced the opening of general registration Monday for the 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention. The convention will be held in-person January 6-11, 2023, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. AFBF assessed the status of San Juan and the convention facilities following Hurricane Fiona and determined that all are fully operational. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “This is your opportunity to gain insights about the future of agriculture, sharpen your skills and help define the agenda in Washington.” Workshop topics include the 2023 farm bill, policy updates, market outlooks, trade, the latest ag education resources and strategies for coping with farm stress. An exciting aspect of the convention is the opportunity for farmers and ranchers from the 50 states to see and learn about crops and agricultural practices unique to Puerto Rico. You can view the high-level convention agenda and register online to attend at annualconvention.fb.org.

Registration open for 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention

Harvest season is in high gear, and U.S. farmers have another supply chain challenge. 

Bloomberg says there aren’t enough barges moving goods up and down the shrinking Mississippi River. 

Drought is drying a vital American waterway, which means a lot less room for vessels moving corn and soybeans from farms to U.S. ports.&nbsp;&nbsp;At one point last week, barge rates hit $49.88 per ton. 

That’s the highest price on record and a 50 percent jump from 2021 shipping rates. More than half of the corn and soybean shipments heading to world markets travel along the Mississippi.&nbsp;&nbsp;The barge problems are hitting at harvest when the supplies of grain will be at their largest. 

It also follows a challenging growing season filled with weather problems and soaring inflation for things like fuel and fertilizer. Fertilizers needed by producers to grow grain are also at risk as they ship along the Mississippi.

Harvest season is in high gear, and U.S. farmers have another supply chain challenge. Bloomberg says there aren’t enough barges moving goods up and down the shrinking Mississippi River. Drought is drying a vital American waterway, which means a lot less room for vessels moving corn and soybeans from farms to U.S. ports.&nbsp;&nbsp;At one point last week, barge rates hit $49.88 per ton. That’s the highest price on record and a 50 percent jump from 2021 shipping rates. More than half of the corn and soybean shipments heading to world markets travel along the Mississippi.&nbsp;&nbsp;The barge problems are hitting at harvest when the supplies of grain will be at their largest. It also follows a challenging growing season filled with weather problems and soaring inflation for things like fuel and fertilizer. Fertilizers needed by producers to grow grain are also at risk as they ship along the Mississippi.

Mississippi River shipping rates hit record high

The Federal Trade Commission and a group of 10 state attorneys general filed a complaint in federal court against pesticide makers Syngenta Crop Protection and Corteva. 

The complaint accuses the manufacturers of allegedly paying distributors to block competitors from selling their cheaper generic products to farmers. 

The complaint says the firms run “loyalty programs” in which distributors only get paid if they limit business with competing manufacturers. 

Cutting off the competition allowed the defendants to inflate their prices and force American farmers to spend millions of dollars more on their products. The complaint seeks to shut down the illegal pay-to-block scheme and restore competition to affected markets. 

“The FTC is suing to stop Syngenta and Corteva from maintaining their monopolies through harmful tactics that have jacked up pesticide prices for farmers,” says FTC Chair Lina Khan. “By paying to block generic producers from the market, these companies deprived farmers of cheaper options.”

The Federal Trade Commission and a group of 10 state attorneys general filed a complaint in federal court against pesticide makers Syngenta Crop Protection and Corteva. The complaint accuses the manufacturers of allegedly paying distributors to block competitors from selling their cheaper generic products to farmers. The complaint says the firms run “loyalty programs” in which distributors only get paid if they limit business with competing manufacturers. Cutting off the competition allowed the defendants to inflate their prices and force American farmers to spend millions of dollars more on their products. The complaint seeks to shut down the illegal pay-to-block scheme and restore competition to affected markets. “The FTC is suing to stop Syngenta and Corteva from maintaining their monopolies through harmful tactics that have jacked up pesticide prices for farmers,” says FTC Chair Lina Khan. “By paying to block generic producers from the market, these companies deprived farmers of cheaper options.”

FTC sues companies over pay-to-block scheme

The National Milk Producers Federation says the temporary, short-term lifting of restrictions on infant formula imports to address the rare infant formula shortage is a positive move to fill the supply gap. 

“We did not oppose the just-passed Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act given its targeted volume and limited time frame,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. 

“Those guardrails are necessary to ensure that imports temporarily complement U.S. supplies rather than displace existing available dairy formula ingredients.” 

However, Mulhern says his group “emphatically” opposes efforts that would create long-term dependence on foreign suppliers for a critical nutritional food. “The focus must be to develop additional production in the U.S. necessary to ensure that this crisis isn’t repeated,” Mulhern adds. 

“As COVID taught us, only a robust domestic supply chain with American workers and U.S. sources of production can best protect families from disruptions of critically-needed products.”

The National Milk Producers Federation says the temporary, short-term lifting of restrictions on infant formula imports to address the rare infant formula shortage is a positive move to fill the supply gap. “We did not oppose the just-passed Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act given its targeted volume and limited time frame,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “Those guardrails are necessary to ensure that imports temporarily complement U.S. supplies rather than displace existing available dairy formula ingredients.” However, Mulhern says his group “emphatically” opposes efforts that would create long-term dependence on foreign suppliers for a critical nutritional food. “The focus must be to develop additional production in the U.S. necessary to ensure that this crisis isn’t repeated,” Mulhern adds. “As COVID taught us, only a robust domestic supply chain with American workers and U.S. sources of production can best protect families from disruptions of critically-needed products.”

NMPF on short-term infant formula imports

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — A $40 million tax credit package for Missouri farmers and other agricultural businesses neared passage Monday, when a committee voted to send the bill to the full state Senate.

The bill is expected to come up for a final Senate vote Tuesday.

The measure extends several agricultural tax credits that expired and creates some new tax credits, including breaks for gas stations that sell biodiesel and fuel with a higher percentage of ethanol.

The legislation also would expand government loan programs for farmers in the state.

The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar provisions during the regular legislative session this year, which ended in May.

But GOP Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/media/pdf/hb-1720-veto-letter">vetoed the measure</a>, citing a two-year sunset attached to the tax credits that he said was too short. He also said the bill unconstitutionally included a provision on recycled asphalt shingles, violating a rule against including multiple topics in the same legislation.

Parson called a special session — primarily focused on cutting individual income taxes in the state — and tasked lawmakers with extending the agricultural tax breaks for at least six years. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">last week</a>&nbsp;sent Parson a bill to cut individual income taxes from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year.

“I really believe these tax credits will help small farmers compete on a bigger scale and help those family farmers stay in business,” said Republican Rep. Brad Pollitt, who owns a cattle ranch and sponsored the agriculture tax breaks.

House Democrats unsuccessfully had tried to amend the bill to exclude state lawmakers getting any tax breaks in the measure.

Pollitt told Senate Appropriations Committee members on Monday that he's not sure which lawmakers would qualify for tax breaks under his bill.

Although there are no prohibitions on state lawmakers benefitting from the tax breaks, Pollitt said the measure is aimed at helping small farmers, not lawmakers.

“I probably qualify,” Pollitt said. “I have no interest in this. This is not something that I need.”

A number of Missouri lawmakers work as farmers or ranchers, and Parson is a cattle rancher. Missouri's Legislature is not in session year round, meaning most members work other jobs once the regular session ends in mid-May.

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — A $40 million tax credit package for Missouri farmers and other agricultural businesses neared passage Monday, when a committee voted to send the bill to the full state Senate.The bill is expected to come up for a final Senate vote Tuesday.The measure extends several agricultural tax credits that expired and creates some new tax credits, including breaks for gas stations that sell biodiesel and fuel with a higher percentage of ethanol.The legislation also would expand government loan programs for farmers in the state.The Republican-led Missouri Legislature passed a bill with similar provisions during the regular legislative session this year, which ended in May.But GOP Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/media/pdf/hb-1720-veto-letter">vetoed the measure</a>, citing a two-year sunset attached to the tax credits that he said was too short. He also said the bill unconstitutionally included a provision on recycled asphalt shingles, violating a rule against including multiple topics in the same legislation.Parson called a special session — primarily focused on cutting individual income taxes in the state — and tasked lawmakers with extending the agricultural tax breaks for at least six years. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-corporate-taxes-missouri-columbia-government-and-politics-0f1b81cef03a49fbe16199f24b5e22bd">last week</a>&nbsp;sent Parson a bill to cut individual income taxes from 5.3% to 4.95% beginning next year.“I really believe these tax credits will help small farmers compete on a bigger scale and help those family farmers stay in business,” said Republican Rep. Brad Pollitt, who owns a cattle ranch and sponsored the agriculture tax breaks.House Democrats unsuccessfully had tried to amend the bill to exclude state lawmakers getting any tax breaks in the measure.Pollitt told Senate Appropriations Committee members on Monday that he's not sure which lawmakers would qualify for tax breaks under his bill.Although there are no prohibitions on state lawmakers benefitting from the tax breaks, Pollitt said the measure is aimed at helping small farmers, not lawmakers.“I probably qualify,” Pollitt said. “I have no interest in this. This is not something that I need.”A number of Missouri lawmakers work as farmers or ranchers, and Parson is a cattle rancher. Missouri's Legislature is not in session year round, meaning most members work other jobs once the regular session ends in mid-May.

Tax breaks for farmers near passage In Missouri legislature

By JARED STRONG <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/usda-hopes-to-boost-fertilizer-production-as-soon-as-next-year/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will invest $500 million to 
increase domestic fertilizer production, doubling its previous 
commitment, the agency announced.

The federal dollars would boost long-term projects and ready-to-go proposals that might have an effect as early as next year.

Some of the first projects to get funding from the Fertilizer 
Production Expansion Program are likely to include fertilizer plants 
that are already under construction and could be completed more quickly 
with an infusion of cash, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said
 Tuesday.

“There are facilities that have been underway, are in construction, 
where opportunities may be accelerated to be able to deal with more 
product in 2023 or 2024,” he told reporters.

Vilsack mentioned an unspecified Michigan facility that might be a 
candidate for the funding. The Michigan Potash &amp; Salt Company was 
expected to start construction this year on a $1.1 billion facility to 
process potash that is mined in the state, and one of the company’s 
executives&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://brownfieldagnews.com/news/michigan-potash-plans-to-break-ground-in-coming-months-on-a-billion-dollar-processing-plant/">has said</a>&nbsp;the new federal funding would help the long-awaited project advance.

Potash — a potassium compound — is one of the most widely used 
fertilizers in agriculture. The United States is not a major global 
producer of it, according to USDA data. Canada, Russia and Belarus have 
accounted for about two-thirds of global production.

Michigan Potash has said its facility will have the capacity to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-potash-stands-to-replace-russian-potash-fertilizer-imports-301497352.html">fully supplant</a>&nbsp;Russian imports of the fertilizer, but full production isn’t expected for three years.

The company did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.

The federal funding for fertilizer production is a result of costs that spiked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/11/08/high-cost-short-supply-of-fertilizer-to-alter-2022-planting/">in late 2021</a>&nbsp;and
 early 2022. Those prices have subsided somewhat but are still about 
double what they were at the start of 2021, according to a Green 
Markets’&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fertilizerpricing.com/priceindex/">fertilizer price index</a>.

The price increases were driven by a number of factors, including 
shortages of natural gas used to make nitrogen fertilizers, limited 
fertilizer stockpiles and production disruptions caused by an August 
2021 hurricane that struck Louisiana. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 
exacerbated the problem.

So in March, the USDA announced a new grant program to increase 
domestic production with an eye toward supporting new, independent 
operations. The Biden administration has sought to reduce consolidation 
in agriculture-related industries.

The USDA is expected to start soliciting grant applications soon for 
awards ranging from $1 million to $100 million, Vilsack said.

A first group of applications due within 45 days will be geared 
toward projects that might increase fertilizer supplies in 2023 and 
2024. A second round of applications due within 90 days will be for 
longer-term projects.

The grants will be paid through the Commodity Credit Corporation, 
which has traditionally funded loans and payments to farmers and 
conservations programs of the farm bill. Earlier this month, the USDA 
announced CCC money would be used to support a more than&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/09/14/usda-more-than-triples-funding-for-climate-smart-agriculture/">$3 billion “climate smart” program</a>. At the time, Vilsack said the CCC has sufficient funds to support the new programs and fulfill its farm bill obligations.

The fertilizer grant program is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/08/18/biden-administration-plays-long-game-for-agriculture-and-trade/">a longer-term strategy</a>&nbsp;to reduce prices and the country’s reliance on foreign products. The Biden administration has resisted calls&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/07/29/ag-groups-want-tariff-lifted-on-moroccan-fertilizer/">to cut tariffs</a>&nbsp;on
 certain fertilizers to help alleviate the recent high costs, saying the
 short-term benefits do not outweigh long-term trade goals.

Vilsack said increased domestic fertilizer production combined with 
better techniques to avoid the excessive use of fertilizers will help 
stabilize supplies and farmers’ costs.

“We’re excited about this,” he said of the new grant program. “We 
think it’s going to help reduce the cost, increase the supply, maybe 
generate opportunities for farmer-owned cooperatives as well.”

The USDA is set to hold two online seminars to explain the&nbsp; Fertilizer Production Expansion Program&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dTRONOeRRVu2aTEvGjwx6A">on Oct. 4</a>&nbsp;and how to apply&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dUsGJWFZQtGuh_BWcC7EZQ">on Oct. 6</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664372269646.png" alt="U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said $500 million of new federal grants will support domestic fertilizer production. (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said $500 million of new federal grants will support domestic fertilizer production. (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch).</figcaption>
 </figure>By JARED STRONG <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/usda-hopes-to-boost-fertilizer-production-as-soon-as-next-year/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>The U.S. Department of Agriculture will invest $500 million to 
increase domestic fertilizer production, doubling its previous 
commitment, the agency announced.The federal dollars would boost long-term projects and ready-to-go proposals that might have an effect as early as next year.Some of the first projects to get funding from the Fertilizer 
Production Expansion Program are likely to include fertilizer plants 
that are already under construction and could be completed more quickly 
with an infusion of cash, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said
 Tuesday.“There are facilities that have been underway, are in construction, 
where opportunities may be accelerated to be able to deal with more 
product in 2023 or 2024,” he told reporters.Vilsack mentioned an unspecified Michigan facility that might be a 
candidate for the funding. The Michigan Potash &amp; Salt Company was 
expected to start construction this year on a $1.1 billion facility to 
process potash that is mined in the state, and one of the company’s 
executives&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://brownfieldagnews.com/news/michigan-potash-plans-to-break-ground-in-coming-months-on-a-billion-dollar-processing-plant/">has said</a>&nbsp;the new federal funding would help the long-awaited project advance.Potash — a potassium compound — is one of the most widely used 
fertilizers in agriculture. The United States is not a major global 
producer of it, according to USDA data. Canada, Russia and Belarus have 
accounted for about two-thirds of global production.Michigan Potash has said its facility will have the capacity to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-potash-stands-to-replace-russian-potash-fertilizer-imports-301497352.html">fully supplant</a>&nbsp;Russian imports of the fertilizer, but full production isn’t expected for three years.The company did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.The federal funding for fertilizer production is a result of costs that spiked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/11/08/high-cost-short-supply-of-fertilizer-to-alter-2022-planting/">in late 2021</a>&nbsp;and
 early 2022. Those prices have subsided somewhat but are still about 
double what they were at the start of 2021, according to a Green 
Markets’&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fertilizerpricing.com/priceindex/">fertilizer price index</a>.The price increases were driven by a number of factors, including 
shortages of natural gas used to make nitrogen fertilizers, limited 
fertilizer stockpiles and production disruptions caused by an August 
2021 hurricane that struck Louisiana. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 
exacerbated the problem.So in March, the USDA announced a new grant program to increase 
domestic production with an eye toward supporting new, independent 
operations. The Biden administration has sought to reduce consolidation 
in agriculture-related industries.The USDA is expected to start soliciting grant applications soon for 
awards ranging from $1 million to $100 million, Vilsack said.A first group of applications due within 45 days will be geared 
toward projects that might increase fertilizer supplies in 2023 and 
2024. A second round of applications due within 90 days will be for 
longer-term projects.The grants will be paid through the Commodity Credit Corporation, 
which has traditionally funded loans and payments to farmers and 
conservations programs of the farm bill. Earlier this month, the USDA 
announced CCC money would be used to support a more than&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/09/14/usda-more-than-triples-funding-for-climate-smart-agriculture/">$3 billion “climate smart” program</a>. At the time, Vilsack said the CCC has sufficient funds to support the new programs and fulfill its farm bill obligations.The fertilizer grant program is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/08/18/biden-administration-plays-long-game-for-agriculture-and-trade/">a longer-term strategy</a>&nbsp;to reduce prices and the country’s reliance on foreign products. The Biden administration has resisted calls&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/07/29/ag-groups-want-tariff-lifted-on-moroccan-fertilizer/">to cut tariffs</a>&nbsp;on
 certain fertilizers to help alleviate the recent high costs, saying the
 short-term benefits do not outweigh long-term trade goals.Vilsack said increased domestic fertilizer production combined with 
better techniques to avoid the excessive use of fertilizers will help 
stabilize supplies and farmers’ costs.“We’re excited about this,” he said of the new grant program. “We 
think it’s going to help reduce the cost, increase the supply, maybe 
generate opportunities for farmer-owned cooperatives as well.”The USDA is set to hold two online seminars to explain the&nbsp; Fertilizer Production Expansion Program&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dTRONOeRRVu2aTEvGjwx6A">on Oct. 4</a>&nbsp;and how to apply&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dUsGJWFZQtGuh_BWcC7EZQ">on Oct. 6</a>.

USDA hopes to boost fertilizer production as soon as next year

A new report from CoBank says the recent investment surge in U.S. renewable diesel production capacity is likely to ignite a period of growth and transition for the biofuels industry. 

“The outlook for biofuels is good as the U.S. and other developed countries embrace renewable liquid transportation fuels as a solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Ken Zuckerberg, lead grain and farm supply economist for CoBank. 

“Renewable diesel offers the most intriguing opportunity in the biofuels space because the growth potential is extraordinary.” 

Several industry stakeholders are planning to build new soybean crush and refineries during the next two years, which would increase U.S. renewable diesel production capacity to 6.5 billion gallons by 2030. 

Soybean oil is the most common feedstock for producing renewable diesel. CoBank says U.S. soybean acreage would need to grow by 17.9 million acres to fill the supply gap created by the additional crush and refinery projects.

A new report from CoBank says the recent investment surge in U.S. renewable diesel production capacity is likely to ignite a period of growth and transition for the biofuels industry. “The outlook for biofuels is good as the U.S. and other developed countries embrace renewable liquid transportation fuels as a solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Ken Zuckerberg, lead grain and farm supply economist for CoBank. “Renewable diesel offers the most intriguing opportunity in the biofuels space because the growth potential is extraordinary.” Several industry stakeholders are planning to build new soybean crush and refineries during the next two years, which would increase U.S. renewable diesel production capacity to 6.5 billion gallons by 2030. Soybean oil is the most common feedstock for producing renewable diesel. CoBank says U.S. soybean acreage would need to grow by 17.9 million acres to fill the supply gap created by the additional crush and refinery projects.

Biodiesel to turbo charge American Biofuel growth

USDA says it has expanded its Post-Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) insurance option for corn farmers who “split-apply” nitrogen on their crops. 

The coverage now includes most counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, where non-irrigate corn is insurable. 

USDA rolled out PACE earlier this year to support stewardship of fertilizer and will continue to offer it in select counties of Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, and the Dakotas. 

“PACE provides an additional risk management tool for corn growers,” says NCGA President Chris Edgington. PACE provides coverage for the projected yield lost when producers are unable to apply the post-nitrogen application due to field conditions created by the weather during the V3 through V10 stages. 

“We’re always working to offer risk management options and opportunities in the best interest of producers and their operations, and that also support and encourage environmental and climate-smart practices,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger.

USDA says it has expanded its Post-Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) insurance option for corn farmers who “split-apply” nitrogen on their crops. The coverage now includes most counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, where non-irrigate corn is insurable. USDA rolled out PACE earlier this year to support stewardship of fertilizer and will continue to offer it in select counties of Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, and the Dakotas. “PACE provides an additional risk management tool for corn growers,” says NCGA President Chris Edgington. PACE provides coverage for the projected yield lost when producers are unable to apply the post-nitrogen application due to field conditions created by the weather during the V3 through V10 stages. “We’re always working to offer risk management options and opportunities in the best interest of producers and their operations, and that also support and encourage environmental and climate-smart practices,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger.

USDA expands PACE coverage

Smithfield Foods agreed to pay $75 million to settle a price-fixing lawsuit. 

Reuters says consumers accused the meat producer and several competitors of conspiring to inflate prices in the U.S. pork market by limiting supply. 

Smithfield spokesman Jim Monroe says the company denied liability in settling, and that the accord reduces the distraction, risk, and cost of protracted litigation. 

“The agreement also limits a substantial portion of Smithfield’s remaining liability in the nationwide case,” he says. In other litigation, Smithfield previously reached settlements worth $83 million with direct purchasers and $42 million with commercial purchasers, including restaurants. 

Some of the other defendants include Hormel Foods, Tyson Foods, and data provider Agri Stats, Inc. Smithfield agreed to provide cooperation that the plaintiffs’ lawyers say will strengthen their cases against the remaining defendants. 

Smithfield is based in Virginia and owned by Hong Kong-listed WH Group, which calls itself the world’s largest pork company.

Smithfield Foods agreed to pay $75 million to settle a price-fixing lawsuit. Reuters says consumers accused the meat producer and several competitors of conspiring to inflate prices in the U.S. pork market by limiting supply. Smithfield spokesman Jim Monroe says the company denied liability in settling, and that the accord reduces the distraction, risk, and cost of protracted litigation. “The agreement also limits a substantial portion of Smithfield’s remaining liability in the nationwide case,” he says. In other litigation, Smithfield previously reached settlements worth $83 million with direct purchasers and $42 million with commercial purchasers, including restaurants. Some of the other defendants include Hormel Foods, Tyson Foods, and data provider Agri Stats, Inc. Smithfield agreed to provide cooperation that the plaintiffs’ lawyers say will strengthen their cases against the remaining defendants. Smithfield is based in Virginia and owned by Hong Kong-listed WH Group, which calls itself the world’s largest pork company.

Smithfield to pay $75 million to settle price-fixing suit

The Department of Agriculture plans to invest $8 million to support and expand carbon monitoring in soils. The investment also supports the assessment of how climate-smart practices affect carbon sequestration. The investment is part of USDA's efforts to build out a national soil carbon monitoring network, which was kicked off with soil carbon monitoring on Conservation Reserve Program acres in 2021. 

The Department of Agriculture plans to invest $8 million to support and expand carbon monitoring in soils. The investment also supports the assessment of how climate-smart practices affect carbon sequestration. The investment is part of USDA's efforts to build out a national soil carbon monitoring network, which was kicked off with soil carbon monitoring on Conservation Reserve Program acres in 2021. USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service requests proposals for regional projects focused on soil organic carbon stock monitoring, which are due November 28, 2022. The investment in building out the soil carbon monitoring network is part of USDA's comprehensive effort to address climate change through climate-smart agriculture and forestry. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says, “Soil health management practices and activities are a tremendous part of our strategy when it comes to climate-smart agriculture and forestry.” Additional information is available in the notice of funding, which will appear on grants.gov