Record-level red meat exports of 18.7 billion dollars in 2021 had a major impact on the corn and soybean industries. 

An independent study by the Juday Group quantified the returns that red meat exports brought to corn and soybean producers in 2021 nationally and at state levels. 

Key findings from the 2021 export data showed that beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage, equating to 2.94 billion dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pork exports accounted for 99.3 million bushels of soybean usage nationwide or the equivalent of 2.36 million metric tons of soybean meal worth 1.3 billion dollars. 

Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.4 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to 716 million dollars. “Beef and pork exports drive value directly back to the farm, and this study helps confirm the return on investment for all corn and soybean producers,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation Chair-elect and Iowa producer Dean Meyer.

Record-level red meat exports of 18.7 billion dollars in 2021 had a major impact on the corn and soybean industries. An independent study by the Juday Group quantified the returns that red meat exports brought to corn and soybean producers in 2021 nationally and at state levels. Key findings from the 2021 export data showed that beef and pork exports accounted for 537 million bushels of corn usage, equating to 2.94 billion dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pork exports accounted for 99.3 million bushels of soybean usage nationwide or the equivalent of 2.36 million metric tons of soybean meal worth 1.3 billion dollars. Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.4 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to 716 million dollars. “Beef and pork exports drive value directly back to the farm, and this study helps confirm the return on investment for all corn and soybean producers,” says U.S. Meat Export Federation Chair-elect and Iowa producer Dean Meyer.

Red meat exports add value to corn and soybean producers

House Ag Committee Ranking Member Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania introduced a bill this week that Fox News says would “strike back” at several of the administration’s agricultural policies. 

It would also strike down a recently-proposed rule from the Securities and Exchange Commission that could potentially harm small farms. 

Thompson is introducing the bill with more than 20 cosponsors during a time when America is dealing with significant inflation, especially in food prices. 

The bill has several provisions that Thompson says would help in many ways, including rescinding the SEC Scope Three reporting rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rule requires public companies to report information like it’s carbon emissions but also from sources up and down their supply chains. 

Thompson’s bill also includes several provisions relating to fertilizer, including reinstating the National Environmental Policy Act of 2020, which would streamline mineral extraction for fertilizer production. The bill also reinstates the Trump-era Waters of the U.S. rule.

House Ag Committee Ranking Member Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania introduced a bill this week that Fox News says would “strike back” at several of the administration’s agricultural policies. It would also strike down a recently-proposed rule from the Securities and Exchange Commission that could potentially harm small farms. Thompson is introducing the bill with more than 20 cosponsors during a time when America is dealing with significant inflation, especially in food prices. The bill has several provisions that Thompson says would help in many ways, including rescinding the SEC Scope Three reporting rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rule requires public companies to report information like it’s carbon emissions but also from sources up and down their supply chains. Thompson’s bill also includes several provisions relating to fertilizer, including reinstating the National Environmental Policy Act of 2020, which would streamline mineral extraction for fertilizer production. The bill also reinstates the Trump-era Waters of the U.S. rule.

House GOP bill targets Biden ag policies

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association expressed strong disappointment after the House of Representatives passed the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act. 

Their disappointment is because the bill incorporates the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act. 

NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says Congress is focused on political posturing through the Special Investigator Bill. 

NCBA says the investigator position will duplicate the work already being done by other federal agencies. House Ag Chair David Scott says the bill will ensure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, increase options at the pump, and provide support to America’s ag sector and food supply chain. 

The bill will permanently lift barriers to year-round sales of E15, something Growth Energy says would enable more access to a lower-cost, lower-emission option for hardworking families. “We’ve recently seen E15 deliver savings approaching 60 cents per gallon in some parts of the country,” says CEO Emily Skor.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association expressed strong disappointment after the House of Representatives passed the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act. Their disappointment is because the bill incorporates the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act. NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says Congress is focused on political posturing through the Special Investigator Bill. NCBA says the investigator position will duplicate the work already being done by other federal agencies. House Ag Chair David Scott says the bill will ensure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, increase options at the pump, and provide support to America’s ag sector and food supply chain. The bill will permanently lift barriers to year-round sales of E15, something Growth Energy says would enable more access to a lower-cost, lower-emission option for hardworking families. “We’ve recently seen E15 deliver savings approaching 60 cents per gallon in some parts of the country,” says CEO Emily Skor.

Mixed reaction to House passage of Special Investigator Bill

WASHINGTON— U.S. Representative Tracey Mann and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;led several of their colleagues in sending a letter&nbsp;to the U.S. Department of Commerce, urging it to consider the record-high fertilizer cost and suspend the duties it placed on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer imports from Trinidad and Tobago.

<a href="https://mann.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/mann.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/FINAL_ITC_2_RAIMONDO.pdf">CLICK here to read</a> the letter

"We're seeing the price of fertilizer, which is many times based on fossil fuel increase 300 to 400%," Mann said this week.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) heard final arguments on Thursday in the antidumping duty investigation of UAN fertilizers from Trinidad and Tobago.

"When you quadruple the price of fertilizer and other inputs, it's all about the margin and what you actually take home," Mann said. "We're putting our ag producers, the best in the world, in a really bad spot right now."

<a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/opendata/fertilizer-prices-expected-remain-higher-longer">The World Bank posted on its blog last month</a>&nbsp;that fertilizers are now at their least affordable levels since the 2008 global food crisis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627660813904.png" alt="Kansas First District congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Kansas First District congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— U.S. Representative Tracey Mann and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;led several of their colleagues in sending a letter&nbsp;to the U.S. Department of Commerce, urging it to consider the record-high fertilizer cost and suspend the duties it placed on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer imports from Trinidad and Tobago.<a href="https://mann.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/mann.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/FINAL_ITC_2_RAIMONDO.pdf">CLICK here to read</a> the letter"We're seeing the price of fertilizer, which is many times based on fossil fuel increase 300 to 400%," Mann said this week.The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) heard final arguments on Thursday in the antidumping duty investigation of UAN fertilizers from Trinidad and Tobago."When you quadruple the price of fertilizer and other inputs, it's all about the margin and what you actually take home," Mann said. "We're putting our ag producers, the best in the world, in a really bad spot right now."<a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/opendata/fertilizer-prices-expected-remain-higher-longer">The World Bank posted on its blog last month</a>&nbsp;that fertilizers are now at their least affordable levels since the 2008 global food crisis.

Mann, Moran respond to record high cost of fertilizer

There’s no question a highly-contagious bird flu outbreak is reducing the size of the U.S. chicken flock and driving up the cost of eggs nationwide. 

Some social media claims say USDA predicts eggs will be $12 per dozen by this fall. 

Jennifer Smits, director of communications for the USDA’s Economic Research Service, says that USDA isn’t predicting eggs will be $12 per dozen later this year. 

Smith points out in USA Today that while the ERS does predict and follow agriculture and food trends, they don’t forecast specific retail egg prices. 

As of June 10, Federal Reserve economic data says the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $2.86, and prices are predicted to dip to $1.70 per dozen in the fourth quarter of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inconsistent supply of eggs is driving up the cost this year, while overall food prices are 9.4 percent higher than 2021.

There’s no question a highly-contagious bird flu outbreak is reducing the size of the U.S. chicken flock and driving up the cost of eggs nationwide. Some social media claims say USDA predicts eggs will be $12 per dozen by this fall. Jennifer Smits, director of communications for the USDA’s Economic Research Service, says that USDA isn’t predicting eggs will be $12 per dozen later this year. Smith points out in USA Today that while the ERS does predict and follow agriculture and food trends, they don’t forecast specific retail egg prices. As of June 10, Federal Reserve economic data says the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs in the U.S. was $2.86, and prices are predicted to dip to $1.70 per dozen in the fourth quarter of 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The inconsistent supply of eggs is driving up the cost this year, while overall food prices are 9.4 percent higher than 2021.

Eggs costing $12 per dozen is “unrealistic”

In a letter to Congress Wednesday, National Farmers Union expressed support for the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act and urged Members to support the bill. 

The legislation, NFU says, will provide fairness to farmers, lower prices for consumers, and fight back against decades of consolidation in agriculture. 

House lawmakers are considering the legislative package Thursday. 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “Farmers Union members are in strong support of bolstering USDA’s ability to investigate consolidation in the livestock industry.” The legislation would create a special investigator’s office at the Department of Agriculture to explore the issue. 

However, that issue has House Republicans and Democrats divided on the legislation. National Farmers Union also supports the provisions to expand processing capacity that will offer ranchers more opportunities to get their products to their communities. Another provision of the bill would make year-round E-15 sales permanent, also supported by NFU.

In a letter to Congress Wednesday, National Farmers Union expressed support for the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act and urged Members to support the bill. The legislation, NFU says, will provide fairness to farmers, lower prices for consumers, and fight back against decades of consolidation in agriculture. House lawmakers are considering the legislative package Thursday. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says, “Farmers Union members are in strong support of bolstering USDA’s ability to investigate consolidation in the livestock industry.” The legislation would create a special investigator’s office at the Department of Agriculture to explore the issue. However, that issue has House Republicans and Democrats divided on the legislation. National Farmers Union also supports the provisions to expand processing capacity that will offer ranchers more opportunities to get their products to their communities. Another provision of the bill would make year-round E-15 sales permanent, also supported by NFU.

Farmers Union urges Congressional support Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act

Representatives from 37 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations will join Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh for an agribusiness trade mission to London, June 22-24. 

Participants will engage directly with foreign buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from the Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. 

Bronaugh says, “I’m very excited to lead a delegation to the United Kingdom, one of our top trading partners,” adding, “The United Kingdom presents strong marketing opportunities for many U.S. consumer-oriented products.” 

U.S. agricultural exports to the United Kingdom totaled $1.9 billion in 2021. In addition to representatives from the following companies and organizations, Bronaugh will be joined by officials from the Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin departments of agriculture. 

The USDA-sponsored trade mission to the U.K. is one of four international trade missions Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced in March.

Representatives from 37 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations will join Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh for an agribusiness trade mission to London, June 22-24. Participants will engage directly with foreign buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from the Foreign Agricultural Service and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. Bronaugh says, “I’m very excited to lead a delegation to the United Kingdom, one of our top trading partners,” adding, “The United Kingdom presents strong marketing opportunities for many U.S. consumer-oriented products.” U.S. agricultural exports to the United Kingdom totaled $1.9 billion in 2021. In addition to representatives from the following companies and organizations, Bronaugh will be joined by officials from the Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin departments of agriculture. The USDA-sponsored trade mission to the U.K. is one of four international trade missions Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced in March.

Bronaugh to lead United Kingdom trade mission

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced new efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of African swine fever in the United States. 

Through a campaign called Protect Our Pigs, APHIS will support pork producers, veterinarians, and pig owners with information and resources to help safeguard the swine population and the pork industry. 

APHIS is deploying a variety of outreach efforts to support these critical stakeholders. 

The new Protect Our Pigs page on the APHIS website will house materials such as downloadable fact sheets and posters, instructional videos, shareable social media graphics, a new interactive biosecurity guide, and offer the latest disease updates. 

Dr. Jack Shere, Associate Administrator at APHIS, says, “USDA is working every day to stop this disease from breaching our borders and the Protect Our Pigs campaign is just one of many ways we are doing that.” African swine fever is estimated to cost the U.S. $50 billion over ten years, if detected.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced new efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of African swine fever in the United States. Through a campaign called Protect Our Pigs, APHIS will support pork producers, veterinarians, and pig owners with information and resources to help safeguard the swine population and the pork industry. APHIS is deploying a variety of outreach efforts to support these critical stakeholders. The new Protect Our Pigs page on the APHIS website will house materials such as downloadable fact sheets and posters, instructional videos, shareable social media graphics, a new interactive biosecurity guide, and offer the latest disease updates. Dr. Jack Shere, Associate Administrator at APHIS, says, “USDA is working every day to stop this disease from breaching our borders and the Protect Our Pigs campaign is just one of many ways we are doing that.” African swine fever is estimated to cost the U.S. $50 billion over ten years, if detected.

APHIS announces new resources aimed at preventing ASF spread

The House of Representatives Monday sent the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to President Biden for signature. 

Agriculture groups responded positively, heralding the legislation that improves the oversight of ocean shipping. 

The bill will address many maritime disruptions obstructing the import and export of U.S. products at American ports over the past several years. 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “I was pleased to team up with President Biden to urge passage and look forward to him quickly signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.” 

U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom welcomed the passage, saying, “This legislation takes important steps forward in improving the shipping services available to U.S. exporters.” 

American Feed Industry Association CEO Constance Cullman adds, “passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act signals a course correction that will enable our industry to continue providing these essential goods to the global marketplace in a timely, cost-efficient way.”

The House of Representatives Monday sent the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to President Biden for signature. Agriculture groups responded positively, heralding the legislation that improves the oversight of ocean shipping. The bill will address many maritime disruptions obstructing the import and export of U.S. products at American ports over the past several years. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says, “I was pleased to team up with President Biden to urge passage and look forward to him quickly signing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom welcomed the passage, saying, “This legislation takes important steps forward in improving the shipping services available to U.S. exporters.” American Feed Industry Association CEO Constance Cullman adds, “passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act signals a course correction that will enable our industry to continue providing these essential goods to the global marketplace in a timely, cost-efficient way.”

Farm groups welcome passage of Ocean Shipping Reform Act

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the comment deadline regarding its “Access to Fertilizer: Competition and Supply Chain Concerns” Federal Register notice. 

Published in the Federal Register in March, the previous deadlines for comments were May 16, and June 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USDA extended the comment deadline another month to July 15, 2022. 

Andy Green, USDA's Senior Advisor for Fair and Competitive Markets, says the new deadline allows "commenters to provide additional feedback regarding the role of capacity expansion and related strategies to directly enhance competition in the fertilizer market." 

Through the effort, USDA is seeking information on what obstacles exist to financing and developing new fertilizer capacity, expanding fertilizer manufacturing, and what other threats the fertilizer sector faces. 

In March, USDA announced plans for a $250 million investment in grants to support additional fertilizer production for farmers to address rising costs and spur competition. Fertilizer prices have more than doubled since last year.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday extended the comment deadline regarding its “Access to Fertilizer: Competition and Supply Chain Concerns” Federal Register notice. Published in the Federal Register in March, the previous deadlines for comments were May 16, and June 15, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA extended the comment deadline another month to July 15, 2022. Andy Green, USDA's Senior Advisor for Fair and Competitive Markets, says the new deadline allows "commenters to provide additional feedback regarding the role of capacity expansion and related strategies to directly enhance competition in the fertilizer market." Through the effort, USDA is seeking information on what obstacles exist to financing and developing new fertilizer capacity, expanding fertilizer manufacturing, and what other threats the fertilizer sector faces. In March, USDA announced plans for a $250 million investment in grants to support additional fertilizer production for farmers to address rising costs and spur competition. Fertilizer prices have more than doubled since last year.

USDA extends comment period on fertilizer supply chain issues

The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee recommended Representative Sharice Davids to join the House Agriculture Committee this week. 

The Kansas Democrat says, “I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill.” 

Kansas Farm Bureau President Rich Felts says, “I know Representative Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture” for the remainder of the current session of Congress. 

House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott says, “I am pleased to welcome her voice to our Committee.” Davids continues to serve as Vice-Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access. 

The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655302901185.jpeg" alt="Sharice Davids /Government photo" />
 <figcaption>Sharice Davids /Government photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee recommended Representative Sharice Davids to join the House Agriculture Committee this week. The Kansas Democrat says, “I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve Kansans on the Agriculture Committee, especially as we gear up to consider the next Farm Bill.” Kansas Farm Bureau President Rich Felts says, “I know Representative Davids will be a strong voice on the committee for her constituents and Kansas agriculture” for the remainder of the current session of Congress. House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott says, “I am pleased to welcome her voice to our Committee.” Davids continues to serve as Vice-Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and on the Small Business Committee, chairing the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access. The recommendation now goes to the full Democratic Caucus for approval. If approved, Davids will join Kansas Republican Representative Tracey Mann on the Committee.

Rep. Sharice Davids assigned to House Ag Committee

The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12. 

The state law seeks to ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the pork was raised on farms outside of California. 

AFBF and NPPC argue Proposition 12 violates the constitution’s Commerce Clause, which restricts states from regulating commerce outside their borders. 

The brief states Proposition 12 “will require massive and costly changes across the entire $26-billion-a-year industry. And it inescapably projects California’s policy choices into every other State, a number of which expressly permit their farmers to house sows in ways inconsistent with Proposition 12.” 

NPPC and AFBF assert Proposition 12 unconstitutionally regulates commerce outside of California, governs activity outside of California’s borders and beyond its police powers, and imposes substantial burdens on out-of-state farmers and their customers.

The American Farm Bureau Federation and National Pork Producers Council filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12. The state law seeks to ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the pork was raised on farms outside of California. AFBF and NPPC argue Proposition 12 violates the constitution’s Commerce Clause, which restricts states from regulating commerce outside their borders. The brief states Proposition 12 “will require massive and costly changes across the entire $26-billion-a-year industry. And it inescapably projects California’s policy choices into every other State, a number of which expressly permit their farmers to house sows in ways inconsistent with Proposition 12.” NPPC and AFBF assert Proposition 12 unconstitutionally regulates commerce outside of California, governs activity outside of California’s borders and beyond its police powers, and imposes substantial burdens on out-of-state farmers and their customers.

AFBF and NPPC tell Supreme Court Proposition 12 is unconstitutional

Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen welcomed news Monday that Chevron finalized its acquisition of Renewable Energy Group, a longtime Clean Fuels Alliance America member. 

As the acquisition is finalized, Chad Stone of Renewable Energy Group will continue to lead the Clean Fuels Governing Board as chair. 

Rehagen says, “This is a meaningful acquisition for our industry and for Clean Fuels for many reasons.” 

The company was one of the first to build a biodiesel plant in the United States. With 11 biorefineries in the U.S. and Europe and more than half a billion gallons of production of biodiesel and renewable diesel, Renewable Energy Group is also one of Clean Fuels’ largest members in terms of fuel production. 

California-based Chevron has steadily grown its clean fuels business, actively marketing its Renewable Diesel Blend at the pump in California. Renewable Energy Group will remain headquartered in Ames, Iowa, and will focus on growing Chevron's portfolio of lower-carbon fuels.

Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen welcomed news Monday that Chevron finalized its acquisition of Renewable Energy Group, a longtime Clean Fuels Alliance America member. As the acquisition is finalized, Chad Stone of Renewable Energy Group will continue to lead the Clean Fuels Governing Board as chair. Rehagen says, “This is a meaningful acquisition for our industry and for Clean Fuels for many reasons.” The company was one of the first to build a biodiesel plant in the United States. With 11 biorefineries in the U.S. and Europe and more than half a billion gallons of production of biodiesel and renewable diesel, Renewable Energy Group is also one of Clean Fuels’ largest members in terms of fuel production. California-based Chevron has steadily grown its clean fuels business, actively marketing its Renewable Diesel Blend at the pump in California. Renewable Energy Group will remain headquartered in Ames, Iowa, and will focus on growing Chevron's portfolio of lower-carbon fuels.

Clean Fuels applauds Chevron on completion acquiring Renewable Energy Group

Consumers in the United States returned to pre-pandemic trends, purchasing more food away from home than food purchases intended for consumption at home. 

USDA’s Economic Research Service released the data Monday, which shows food away from home spending increased 21.1 percent in 2021 from the previous year. 

Food at home spending also increased, up four percent in 2021. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, real total food expenditures fell 6.6 percent from 2019. 

U.S. consumers’ food-spending patterns changed as efforts were made to limit the spread of COVID-19, which included stay-at-home orders. Food away from home spending decreased by 15.8 percent in 2020, while food at home spending increased by 3.9 percent. In 2021, real total food expenditures increased 12.2 percent from 2020. 

USDA describes food at home as food intended for off-premise consumption from retailers, and food away from home as food consumed at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias.

Consumers in the United States returned to pre-pandemic trends, purchasing more food away from home than food purchases intended for consumption at home. USDA’s Economic Research Service released the data Monday, which shows food away from home spending increased 21.1 percent in 2021 from the previous year. Food at home spending also increased, up four percent in 2021. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, real total food expenditures fell 6.6 percent from 2019. U.S. consumers’ food-spending patterns changed as efforts were made to limit the spread of COVID-19, which included stay-at-home orders. Food away from home spending decreased by 15.8 percent in 2020, while food at home spending increased by 3.9 percent. In 2021, real total food expenditures increased 12.2 percent from 2020. USDA describes food at home as food intended for off-premise consumption from retailers, and food away from home as food consumed at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias.

Consumers spend more on food away from home in 2021

Smithfield Foods says it will stop all harvest and processing operations in Vernon, California, in early 2023 due to the rising cost of doing business in the state. 

At the same time, the company will align its hog production system by reducing its sow herd in the western region. 

The company will shrink the size of its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California. 

Smithfield harvests only company-owned hogs in Vernon. “We are grateful to our team members in the Western region for their dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission,” says Smithfield Chief Operating Officer Brady Stewart. 

“We are committed to providing financial and other transition assistance to employees impacted by this difficult decision.” The transition options for employees include relocation options to other company facilities and farms and retention incentives to ensure the business stays in operation until next year.

Smithfield Foods says it will stop all harvest and processing operations in Vernon, California, in early 2023 due to the rising cost of doing business in the state. At the same time, the company will align its hog production system by reducing its sow herd in the western region. The company will shrink the size of its sow herd in Utah and is looking at options to exit its farms in Arizona and California. Smithfield harvests only company-owned hogs in Vernon. “We are grateful to our team members in the Western region for their dedication and invaluable contributions to our mission,” says Smithfield Chief Operating Officer Brady Stewart. “We are committed to providing financial and other transition assistance to employees impacted by this difficult decision.” The transition options for employees include relocation options to other company facilities and farms and retention incentives to ensure the business stays in operation until next year.

Smithfield Foods closing plant in California

Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley testified last week before the California Air Resources Board. 

He spoke to the board in response to its proposed Advanced Clean Cars II Regulation. The proposal set a goal of 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. 

During his testimony, Bliley encouraged CARB to develop clear policies reflecting the reality that liquid fuels will continue to play an important role in the transportation sector for decades.

 “In the existing light-duty fleet, higher bioethanol blends like E15 and E85 can get immediately deployed to achieve immediate GHG reductions, reduce harmful air toxics, and reduce consumer costs at the pump,” says Bliley. 

“Additionally, greater use of E85 will promote even further reductions in GHG and toxic emissions, as well as lower consumer costs because it sells for nearly $2 less per gallon than gasoline.” Consumers are facing record-high gas prices at the pump.

Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley testified last week before the California Air Resources Board. He spoke to the board in response to its proposed Advanced Clean Cars II Regulation. The proposal set a goal of 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. During his testimony, Bliley encouraged CARB to develop clear policies reflecting the reality that liquid fuels will continue to play an important role in the transportation sector for decades. “In the existing light-duty fleet, higher bioethanol blends like E15 and E85 can get immediately deployed to achieve immediate GHG reductions, reduce harmful air toxics, and reduce consumer costs at the pump,” says Bliley. “Additionally, greater use of E85 will promote even further reductions in GHG and toxic emissions, as well as lower consumer costs because it sells for nearly $2 less per gallon than gasoline.” Consumers are facing record-high gas prices at the pump.

Growth Energy testifies on Advanced Clean Cars Regulation

Firestone Ag kicked off the 2022 Rock the Crop Concert Sweepstakes with Nashville-based country music artist Dillon Carmichael. The sweepstakes event is billed as a celebration of U.S. agriculture. 

Building on a successful giveaway of a private concert last year, the farm tire manufacturer and the musician are collaborating again to unite music and agriculture in honor of America’s hard-working farmers and ranchers. 

“The past couple of years have been especially challenging for agriculture workers, so we’re excited to have Dillon Carmichael back on board to join us in thanking one lucky farmer or rancher with a private concert,” says Matt Frank, Firestone marketing product manager. 

Indiana farmer Carey Garwood won the inaugural concert in 2021. This year’s winner will host that private concert with Carmichael on their farm or ranch. “I’m thrilled to continue this partnership with Firestone and to have such a unique opportunity to personally celebrate America’s farmers,” Carmichael says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655133712076.png" alt="Photo courtesy of Firestone Ag" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Firestone Ag</figcaption>
 </figure>Firestone Ag kicked off the 2022 Rock the Crop Concert Sweepstakes with Nashville-based country music artist Dillon Carmichael. The sweepstakes event is billed as a celebration of U.S. agriculture. Building on a successful giveaway of a private concert last year, the farm tire manufacturer and the musician are collaborating again to unite music and agriculture in honor of America’s hard-working farmers and ranchers. “The past couple of years have been especially challenging for agriculture workers, so we’re excited to have Dillon Carmichael back on board to join us in thanking one lucky farmer or rancher with a private concert,” says Matt Frank, Firestone marketing product manager. Indiana farmer Carey Garwood won the inaugural concert in 2021. This year’s winner will host that private concert with Carmichael on their farm or ranch. “I’m thrilled to continue this partnership with Firestone and to have such a unique opportunity to personally celebrate America’s farmers,” Carmichael says.

2022 “Rock the Crop” Concert Sweepstakes underway

Many of agriculture’s leading groups and officials are reacting positively to the expected nomination of Doug McKalip to be the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. 

McKalip has been a key agriculture policy official for three decades, and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that makes him a great choice for the post. 

The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip will be able to use his strong background in farm and trade policy and his knowledge of biotechnology to advance U.S. global trade priorities. 

American Soybean Association CEO Stephen Censky says, “Doug understands the challenges facing agriculture, and we’re glad to have his expertise added to the USTR team.” 

Brian Kuehl of Farmers for Free Trade says McKalip is “well prepared for fighting for the needs of our nation’s farm and food interests.” The National Corn Growers Association is also pleased to see this nomination in place, as is the National Milk Producers Federation.

Many of agriculture’s leading groups and officials are reacting positively to the expected nomination of Doug McKalip to be the chief agricultural negotiator with the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. McKalip has been a key agriculture policy official for three decades, and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that makes him a great choice for the post. The U.S. Grains Council says McKalip will be able to use his strong background in farm and trade policy and his knowledge of biotechnology to advance U.S. global trade priorities. American Soybean Association CEO Stephen Censky says, “Doug understands the challenges facing agriculture, and we’re glad to have his expertise added to the USTR team.” Brian Kuehl of Farmers for Free Trade says McKalip is “well prepared for fighting for the needs of our nation’s farm and food interests.” The National Corn Growers Association is also pleased to see this nomination in place, as is the National Milk Producers Federation.

Groups, officials react positively to McKalip nomination

President Biden will nominate Doug McKalip as the U.S. Trade Representative’s next chief agricultural negotiator. 

McKalip is a longtime USDA advisor and expert in agriculture and trade. The nominee has served as the senior advisor to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack on trade, national security, and animal and plant health regulations since March 2021. 

Reuters says U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai calls McKalip a highly-qualified nominee with decades of experience in public service. 

“His institutional knowledge of USDA spans multiple administrations, from leading different offices to serving as a trusted adviser to Secretary Vilsack,” Tai says, “and he will help us continue the close collaboration between our agencies that’s enabled a lot of success.” 

The chief ag negotiator directs USTR’s negotiations aimed at boosting U.S. farm exports, such as the recent agreement allowing more American beef exports to flow into Japan. McKalip is in year 28 of working with the USDA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654878888454.jpeg" alt="Doug McKalip (Photo courtesy of NCGA)" />
 <figcaption>Doug McKalip (Photo courtesy of NCGA)</figcaption>
 </figure>President Biden will nominate Doug McKalip as the U.S. Trade Representative’s next chief agricultural negotiator. McKalip is a longtime USDA advisor and expert in agriculture and trade. The nominee has served as the senior advisor to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack on trade, national security, and animal and plant health regulations since March 2021. Reuters says U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai calls McKalip a highly-qualified nominee with decades of experience in public service. “His institutional knowledge of USDA spans multiple administrations, from leading different offices to serving as a trusted adviser to Secretary Vilsack,” Tai says, “and he will help us continue the close collaboration between our agencies that’s enabled a lot of success.” The chief ag negotiator directs USTR’s negotiations aimed at boosting U.S. farm exports, such as the recent agreement allowing more American beef exports to flow into Japan. McKalip is in year 28 of working with the USDA.

Biden nominates McKalip to Ag Trade Post

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service released its long-awaited proposed changes to regulations under the Packers and Stockyards Act regarding the U.S. poultry industry. 

The changes include a list of disclosures and information live poultry dealers must furnish to poultry growers and sellers with whom the dealers make poultry-growing arrangements. 

“The proposal would establish additional disclosure requirements in connection with the use of poultry grower ranking systems to live poultry dealers to determine settlement payments for poultry growers,” says AMS. 

“The proposals are intended to promote transparency in poultry production contracting and give poultry growers and prospective poultry growers relevant information to help them make business decisions.” 

The Hagstrom Report says comments on the rule and other information collection aspects of it must get received by August 8. A National Chicken Council spokesman says the group is still evaluating the rule and its potential impact on the industry, but they will comment on the proposal.

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service released its long-awaited proposed changes to regulations under the Packers and Stockyards Act regarding the U.S. poultry industry. The changes include a list of disclosures and information live poultry dealers must furnish to poultry growers and sellers with whom the dealers make poultry-growing arrangements. “The proposal would establish additional disclosure requirements in connection with the use of poultry grower ranking systems to live poultry dealers to determine settlement payments for poultry growers,” says AMS. “The proposals are intended to promote transparency in poultry production contracting and give poultry growers and prospective poultry growers relevant information to help them make business decisions.” The Hagstrom Report says comments on the rule and other information collection aspects of it must get received by August 8. A National Chicken Council spokesman says the group is still evaluating the rule and its potential impact on the industry, but they will comment on the proposal.

USDA releases Poultry Tournament Rule

The National Pork Board elected new officers to lead the 15 producer-directors representing 60,000 American pig farmers who pay into the National Pork Checkoff. 

The checkoff is a program that funds research, promotion, and education efforts for the benefit of the whole pork industry. Indiana pork producer Heather Hill was elected to serve as president of the National Pork Board for the 2022-2023 term. 

“Real Pork is about real farmers leading efforts to ensure the public understands our product is Real Nutritious and Real Sustainable,” says Hill. 

The new president owns a 600-sow farrow-to-finish operation in Indiana with her husband and his parents. The family farm also grows corn, soybeans, and wheat. 

“We will deliver real results to help protect producer freedom to operate and promote continuity of business should a foreign animal disease like African Swine Fever threaten the U.S. herd,” Hill adds. 

Bob Ruth of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is the new Vice-President. &nbsp;

The National Pork Board elected new officers to lead the 15 producer-directors representing 60,000 American pig farmers who pay into the National Pork Checkoff. The checkoff is a program that funds research, promotion, and education efforts for the benefit of the whole pork industry. Indiana pork producer Heather Hill was elected to serve as president of the National Pork Board for the 2022-2023 term. “Real Pork is about real farmers leading efforts to ensure the public understands our product is Real Nutritious and Real Sustainable,” says Hill. The new president owns a 600-sow farrow-to-finish operation in Indiana with her husband and his parents. The family farm also grows corn, soybeans, and wheat. “We will deliver real results to help protect producer freedom to operate and promote continuity of business should a foreign animal disease like African Swine Fever threaten the U.S. herd,” Hill adds. Bob Ruth of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is the new Vice-President. &nbsp;

Pork Board elects new officers

The Senate confirmed Chavonda Jacobs-Young as the USDA’s new Undersecretary for Research, Education, and Economics. 

The vote was 95-4. In a floor statement before the vote, Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow called Jacobs-Young extremely qualified and says she’ll be the first woman of color to serve in the USDA’s highest scientific post. The Hagstrom Report says Stabenow also thanked Ranking Member John Boozman for his help in advancing the nomination. 

Jacobs-Young has served as administrator of the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service since February 2014. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association congratulated Jacobs-Young after the confirmation vote took place. 

“The research, economics, and education arm of USDA provides data and analysis that’s crucial to cattle producers around the country as they make business decisions and monitor new scientific developments,” says Ethan Lane, NCBA’s Vice President for Government Affairs. “We look forward to working closely with Dr. Jacobs-Young and her team.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654784939875.jpeg" alt="Chavonda Jacobs-Young/Government photo" />
 <figcaption>Chavonda Jacobs-Young/Government photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Senate confirmed Chavonda Jacobs-Young as the USDA’s new Undersecretary for Research, Education, and Economics. The vote was 95-4. In a floor statement before the vote, Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow called Jacobs-Young extremely qualified and says she’ll be the first woman of color to serve in the USDA’s highest scientific post. The Hagstrom Report says Stabenow also thanked Ranking Member John Boozman for his help in advancing the nomination. Jacobs-Young has served as administrator of the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service since February 2014. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association congratulated Jacobs-Young after the confirmation vote took place. “The research, economics, and education arm of USDA provides data and analysis that’s crucial to cattle producers around the country as they make business decisions and monitor new scientific developments,” says Ethan Lane, NCBA’s Vice President for Government Affairs. “We look forward to working closely with Dr. Jacobs-Young and her team.”

Senate confirms Jacobs-Young as USDA Undersecretary

The USDA wants to remind producers that options are available for them to insure double-crop soybeans, grain sorghum, and other crops where the practice isn’t allowed. 

Producers in counties where the Following Another Crop practice isn’t allowed may be able to request coverage through their insurance agent under a couple of conditions: If they plant soybeans and other crops after wheat or other small grains, or if producers in some areas work soybeans into wheat using a relay-cropping practice. 

It’s important to remember that requests have to get submitted to crop insurance agents by July 15. In addition to these 2022 crop year options, the Risk Management Agency is actively working with stakeholders to identify areas to expand double-cropping coverage for the 2023 crop year. 

This initiative may include expanding where the FAC practice is allowed permanently or considering other flexibilities and expanding where written agreements are allowed.

The USDA wants to remind producers that options are available for them to insure double-crop soybeans, grain sorghum, and other crops where the practice isn’t allowed. Producers in counties where the Following Another Crop practice isn’t allowed may be able to request coverage through their insurance agent under a couple of conditions: If they plant soybeans and other crops after wheat or other small grains, or if producers in some areas work soybeans into wheat using a relay-cropping practice. It’s important to remember that requests have to get submitted to crop insurance agents by July 15. In addition to these 2022 crop year options, the Risk Management Agency is actively working with stakeholders to identify areas to expand double-cropping coverage for the 2023 crop year. This initiative may include expanding where the FAC practice is allowed permanently or considering other flexibilities and expanding where written agreements are allowed.

Crop Insurance options for producers considering Double-Cropping

The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts that a variety of U.S. energy prices will remain historically high through 2023. 

The outlook includes oil, natural gas, coal, and electricity, as seen in EIA’s June 2022 Short-Term Energy Outlook Tuesday. 

EIA Administrator Joe DeCarolis says, "Although we expect the current upward pressure on energy prices to lessen, high energy prices will likely remain prevalent in the United States this year and next." 

EIA forecasts that high natural gas and coal prices will result in an increased share of renewables in U.S. generation, largely offset by a decline in coal's share. The natural gas share is forecast to decline over the next two years, although at a slower rate than coal. 

EIA says the Brent crude oil price will average $108 per barrel during the second half of 2022, as tight global inventories and significant geopolitical uncertainties continue to put upward pressure on crude oil prices despite an increase in production to pre-pandemic levels.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts that a variety of U.S. energy prices will remain historically high through 2023. The outlook includes oil, natural gas, coal, and electricity, as seen in EIA’s June 2022 Short-Term Energy Outlook Tuesday. EIA Administrator Joe DeCarolis says, "Although we expect the current upward pressure on energy prices to lessen, high energy prices will likely remain prevalent in the United States this year and next." EIA forecasts that high natural gas and coal prices will result in an increased share of renewables in U.S. generation, largely offset by a decline in coal's share. The natural gas share is forecast to decline over the next two years, although at a slower rate than coal. EIA says the Brent crude oil price will average $108 per barrel during the second half of 2022, as tight global inventories and significant geopolitical uncertainties continue to put upward pressure on crude oil prices despite an increase in production to pre-pandemic levels.

EIA expects continued high energy prices through 2023

Cattle producers voiced their concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers' ongoing Waters of the U.S. rulemaking this week. 

The Kansas Livestock Association hosted one of ten roundtable events for the EPA and Army Corps Monday. 

NCBA Environmental Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “To be successful in their operations, cattle producers need a clear, limited WOTUS definition that finally provides much-needed certainty after years of shifting rules.” 

In July 2021, the EPA announced that rather than facilitate public engagement—the typical course of action for major rulemakings—the agency would instead ask private organizations to entirely plan and propose a roundtable with stakeholders. In addition to the roundtables, NCBA has engaged on WOTUS by submitting technical comments on the proposed phase one WOTUS rule and filing an amicus brief in the case Sackett v. EPA, a challenge to the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act. 

NCBA has called for the EPA to pause WOTUS rulemaking until the case is decided.

Cattle producers voiced their concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers' ongoing Waters of the U.S. rulemaking this week. The Kansas Livestock Association hosted one of ten roundtable events for the EPA and Army Corps Monday. NCBA Environmental Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “To be successful in their operations, cattle producers need a clear, limited WOTUS definition that finally provides much-needed certainty after years of shifting rules.” In July 2021, the EPA announced that rather than facilitate public engagement—the typical course of action for major rulemakings—the agency would instead ask private organizations to entirely plan and propose a roundtable with stakeholders. In addition to the roundtables, NCBA has engaged on WOTUS by submitting technical comments on the proposed phase one WOTUS rule and filing an amicus brief in the case Sackett v. EPA, a challenge to the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act. NCBA has called for the EPA to pause WOTUS rulemaking until the case is decided.