Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh travels to Wisconsin Friday to host a Roundtable on Farmers’ Mental Health. 

The event is part of the Department of Agriculture’s efforts in recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. 

The Deputy Secretary will host the roundtable discussion with Senator Tammy Baldwin in Arlington, Wisconsin. 

From volatile market demand for their products to bad weather, farmers often face numerous challenges that can create or exacerbate stress, anxiety and trauma. 

USDA has worked to ensure that farmers and families in rural communities have access to the resources they need to address mental health challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In October, USDA announced an investment of nearly $25 million for 50 grants supporting Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network State Department of Agriculture projects, which connect farmers, ranchers, and others in agriculture-related jobs to stress assistance programs, which provide vital support, ranging from mental health and legal issues to family and youth stress.

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh travels to Wisconsin Friday to host a Roundtable on Farmers’ Mental Health. The event is part of the Department of Agriculture’s efforts in recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The Deputy Secretary will host the roundtable discussion with Senator Tammy Baldwin in Arlington, Wisconsin. From volatile market demand for their products to bad weather, farmers often face numerous challenges that can create or exacerbate stress, anxiety and trauma. USDA has worked to ensure that farmers and families in rural communities have access to the resources they need to address mental health challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;In October, USDA announced an investment of nearly $25 million for 50 grants supporting Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network State Department of Agriculture projects, which connect farmers, ranchers, and others in agriculture-related jobs to stress assistance programs, which provide vital support, ranging from mental health and legal issues to family and youth stress.

Bronaugh to host Roundtable on Farmers’ Mental Health

In recognition of May as Mental Health Month, the American Farm Bureau Federation will host a free virtual event, Farmers Saving Lives, on Tuesday, May 31, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern. 

The live event will feature compelling stories from three Farm Bureau members who believe that advocating for mental health wellness is a way to save lives in rural and farming communities. 

Farmers, ranchers and their families are encouraged to attend via telephone, smartphone or tablet from planters, harvesters, greenhouses, dairy barns, farm trucks, classrooms and carpool lines. 

AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “We’re holding this virtual event on the last day of Mental Health Month to remind everyone that our work does not stop on June 1 – it continues throughout the year.” 

According to AFBF national research polls, a strong majority of farmers and farmworkers say financial issues, farm or business problems and fear of losing the farm impact farmers’ mental health. You can register for the event&nbsp;<a href="https://farmbureau.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2EE9TVBITu6N5q3Qp4W85w">online</a>, and learn more at fb.org.

In recognition of May as Mental Health Month, the American Farm Bureau Federation will host a free virtual event, Farmers Saving Lives, on Tuesday, May 31, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern. The live event will feature compelling stories from three Farm Bureau members who believe that advocating for mental health wellness is a way to save lives in rural and farming communities. Farmers, ranchers and their families are encouraged to attend via telephone, smartphone or tablet from planters, harvesters, greenhouses, dairy barns, farm trucks, classrooms and carpool lines. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “We’re holding this virtual event on the last day of Mental Health Month to remind everyone that our work does not stop on June 1 – it continues throughout the year.” According to AFBF national research polls, a strong majority of farmers and farmworkers say financial issues, farm or business problems and fear of losing the farm impact farmers’ mental health. You can register for the event&nbsp;<a href="https://farmbureau.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2EE9TVBITu6N5q3Qp4W85w">online</a>, and learn more at fb.org.

Farm Bureau to host ‘Farmers Saving Lives’ virtual event for Mental Health Month

The Biden Administration Monday announced the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. 

The White House says the plan is a 21st century economic arrangement designed to tackle 21st-century economic challenges. 

Those challenges include the digital economy, ensuring secure and resilient supply chains, and major investments in clean energy. 

The plan will engage partners that facilitate agricultural trade through science-based decision-making and the adoption of sound, transparent regulatory practices. Agriculture groups welcomed the launch of the framework. 

U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the framework “is a new approach to trade negotiations that will hopefully still create the same positive, high-standard outcomes for U.S. farmers." 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says the framework "will help reduce barriers, improve the adoption of science-based standards and grow American agricultural exports." 

Krysta Harden, U.S. Dairy Export Council President and CEO, adds the framework “offers a chance for the United States to have a positive impact on the trading environment in a vital area of the world.”

The Biden Administration Monday announced the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The White House says the plan is a 21st century economic arrangement designed to tackle 21st-century economic challenges. Those challenges include the digital economy, ensuring secure and resilient supply chains, and major investments in clean energy. The plan will engage partners that facilitate agricultural trade through science-based decision-making and the adoption of sound, transparent regulatory practices. Agriculture groups welcomed the launch of the framework. U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the framework “is a new approach to trade negotiations that will hopefully still create the same positive, high-standard outcomes for U.S. farmers." American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says the framework "will help reduce barriers, improve the adoption of science-based standards and grow American agricultural exports." Krysta Harden, U.S. Dairy Export Council President and CEO, adds the framework “offers a chance for the United States to have a positive impact on the trading environment in a vital area of the world.”

Farm groups welcome Indo-Pacific Economic Framework

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows retail food price inflation varies by locality. 

From 2012 to 2021, increases in retail food prices ranged from an average of 2.4 percent a year in Honolulu, Hawaii, to 0.9 percent in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, area. 

Retail food includes food bought in grocery stores as opposed to restaurants. 

Differences in transportation costs and retail overhead expenses, such as labor and rent, can explain some of the variation among cities because retailers often pass local cost increases on to consumers in the form of higher prices. 

Differences in consumer preferences among cities for specific foods may help explain variation in inflation rates, as well. 

For example, a city whose residents strongly prefer foods with less price inflation, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, might experience lower food-at-home price inflation than a city whose residents buy more beef and veal. Across the United States, prices increased by an average of 1.4 percent a year over the ten-year period.

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows retail food price inflation varies by locality. From 2012 to 2021, increases in retail food prices ranged from an average of 2.4 percent a year in Honolulu, Hawaii, to 0.9 percent in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, area. Retail food includes food bought in grocery stores as opposed to restaurants. Differences in transportation costs and retail overhead expenses, such as labor and rent, can explain some of the variation among cities because retailers often pass local cost increases on to consumers in the form of higher prices. Differences in consumer preferences among cities for specific foods may help explain variation in inflation rates, as well. For example, a city whose residents strongly prefer foods with less price inflation, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, might experience lower food-at-home price inflation than a city whose residents buy more beef and veal. Across the United States, prices increased by an average of 1.4 percent a year over the ten-year period.

Retail food price inflation varies by location

A global food crisis, already impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, is being driven to famine levels worldwide by the war in Ukraine and the resulting lack of grain exports. 

The United Nations Security Council last week heard from experts on the war's impact on global food security. 

David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Program, stated, "When a nation that is the breadbasket of the world becomes a nation with the longest bread line of the world, we know we have a problem." 

Even before the Ukraine crisis, the world was already facing an unprecedented, perfect storm because of conflict, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. And, price increases in major food crops have made an additional 400 million people food insecure over the last five months. 

Some experts warn the world only has ten weeks of wheat supply left. Ukraine and the Russian Federation together export 30 percent of global cereals and 67 percent of sunflower oil.

A global food crisis, already impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, is being driven to famine levels worldwide by the war in Ukraine and the resulting lack of grain exports. The United Nations Security Council last week heard from experts on the war's impact on global food security. David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Program, stated, "When a nation that is the breadbasket of the world becomes a nation with the longest bread line of the world, we know we have a problem." Even before the Ukraine crisis, the world was already facing an unprecedented, perfect storm because of conflict, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. And, price increases in major food crops have made an additional 400 million people food insecure over the last five months. Some experts warn the world only has ten weeks of wheat supply left. Ukraine and the Russian Federation together export 30 percent of global cereals and 67 percent of sunflower oil.

Lack of grain exports driving global hunger

India has a great deal of wheat sitting at ports because of a sudden ban on exports that prevented dealers from loading cargoes. 

Reuters says trade and government sources say that the Indian government is considering allowing traders to ship out some of that wheat. 

The Indian government banned wheat exports over a week ago because of a heatwave that hurt the country’s wheat output. 

The sudden prohibition on shipping wheat left 1.8 million tons of grain at India’s ports with nowhere to go. Last Tuesday, the government gave permission to ship grains awaiting customs clearance before they can get shipped out of the ports. 

However, traders are putting pressure on the government to further relax its restriction on grain shipments. A New Delhi-based grain dealer says, “Piecemeal relaxations are not going to help, and the government needs to resolve the issue in the next few days to avoid a chain of payment defaults.”

India has a great deal of wheat sitting at ports because of a sudden ban on exports that prevented dealers from loading cargoes. Reuters says trade and government sources say that the Indian government is considering allowing traders to ship out some of that wheat. The Indian government banned wheat exports over a week ago because of a heatwave that hurt the country’s wheat output. The sudden prohibition on shipping wheat left 1.8 million tons of grain at India’s ports with nowhere to go. Last Tuesday, the government gave permission to ship grains awaiting customs clearance before they can get shipped out of the ports. However, traders are putting pressure on the government to further relax its restriction on grain shipments. A New Delhi-based grain dealer says, “Piecemeal relaxations are not going to help, and the government needs to resolve the issue in the next few days to avoid a chain of payment defaults.”

India considers allowing more wheat shipments

Growth Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency reached a settlement on a deadline for issuing the 2023 Renewable Volume Obligations for blending ethanol into the fuel supply. 

The EPA is expected to file a notice in the Federal Register on Monday seeking comment on a proposed decree that would require the EPA propose the 2023 RVOs by no later than September 16, 2022. 

The agency would then finalize it no later than April 28, 2023.&nbsp; 

EPA’s notice comes after Growth Energy filed a notice of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court after the EPA failed to set the RVOs by the Congressionally-mandated deadline. 

“Securing a deadline for the 2023 RVO is a significant victory in our mission to ensure certainty when it comes to biofuel blending says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor, “especially as we face a new era of the RFS when volumes are set by EPA and not Congress.”

Growth Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency reached a settlement on a deadline for issuing the 2023 Renewable Volume Obligations for blending ethanol into the fuel supply. The EPA is expected to file a notice in the Federal Register on Monday seeking comment on a proposed decree that would require the EPA propose the 2023 RVOs by no later than September 16, 2022. The agency would then finalize it no later than April 28, 2023.&nbsp; EPA’s notice comes after Growth Energy filed a notice of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court after the EPA failed to set the RVOs by the Congressionally-mandated deadline. “Securing a deadline for the 2023 RVO is a significant victory in our mission to ensure certainty when it comes to biofuel blending says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor, “especially as we face a new era of the RFS when volumes are set by EPA and not Congress.”

Growth Energy, EPA reach settlement on 2023 RVO deadline

The American Feed Industry Association’s Board of Directors recently held its annual spring meeting in Arlington, Virginia. 

As part of the meeting schedule, they spent time advocating for key industry priorities on Capitol Hill and conducted other official business, including approving new Board leadership and members. 

The 44 Board members met with elected officials in the House and Senate about improving the Food and Drug Administration’s animal food review program. 

They also talked about resolving ongoing supply chain and export issues that are hindering the industry’s ability to satisfy customers’ orders in a timely and cost-effective way. Board members also highlighted the industry’s work to provide solutions to national climate change priorities. 

“Our Board leadership impressed upon policymakers how removing key regulatory and trade barriers now will secure our industry’s ability to continue delivering feed, ingredients, and pet food to the marketplace into the future,” says AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman.

The American Feed Industry Association’s Board of Directors recently held its annual spring meeting in Arlington, Virginia. As part of the meeting schedule, they spent time advocating for key industry priorities on Capitol Hill and conducted other official business, including approving new Board leadership and members. The 44 Board members met with elected officials in the House and Senate about improving the Food and Drug Administration’s animal food review program. They also talked about resolving ongoing supply chain and export issues that are hindering the industry’s ability to satisfy customers’ orders in a timely and cost-effective way. Board members also highlighted the industry’s work to provide solutions to national climate change priorities. “Our Board leadership impressed upon policymakers how removing key regulatory and trade barriers now will secure our industry’s ability to continue delivering feed, ingredients, and pet food to the marketplace into the future,” says AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman.

Feed Industry Association’s Board advocates in Washington, D.C.

The United Nations is talking with Russia about the possibility of opening up Ukraine’s Black Sea ports for grain shipments to get exported. 

Ukraine is one of the largest grain producers in the world and usually exports goods through its seaports. 

However, Russia controls the Black Sea ports, which has forced Ukraine to export by train or through its smaller ports along the Danube River. 

Reuters says that Russia responded to the U.N. appeal by saying that sanctions on Russia would have to get reviewed if it were to allow the ports to reopen. U.N. Food Chief David Beasley appealed directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “If you have any heart at all, please open these ports.” 

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister says the sanctions imposed on Russia by the U.S. and EU are interfering with normal free trade, including food products like wheat, fertilizers, and many other goods.

The United Nations is talking with Russia about the possibility of opening up Ukraine’s Black Sea ports for grain shipments to get exported. Ukraine is one of the largest grain producers in the world and usually exports goods through its seaports. However, Russia controls the Black Sea ports, which has forced Ukraine to export by train or through its smaller ports along the Danube River. Reuters says that Russia responded to the U.N. appeal by saying that sanctions on Russia would have to get reviewed if it were to allow the ports to reopen. U.N. Food Chief David Beasley appealed directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “If you have any heart at all, please open these ports.” Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister says the sanctions imposed on Russia by the U.S. and EU are interfering with normal free trade, including food products like wheat, fertilizers, and many other goods.

U.N. wants Ukraine’s ports opened for grain shipments

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow and Ranking Member John Boozman led a bipartisan group of senators who introduced legislation to address baby formula shortages. 

The bill is aimed at helping families who rely on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). 

The Access to Baby Formula Act has a companion bill in the House. 

It would give USDA more flexibility during a crisis like the shortages currently facing the country. The flexibility would ensure that the brand or type of formula families can buy isn’t restricted by program rules, allowing families to purchase whatever is available in the store. 

Formula manufacturers would be required to have a plan in place to respond to shortages. “This is an extremely stressful time for parents who are looking high and low for baby formula,” Stabenow says. “Almost half of all babies born in the U.S. rely on the WIC program.”

Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow and Ranking Member John Boozman led a bipartisan group of senators who introduced legislation to address baby formula shortages. The bill is aimed at helping families who rely on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The Access to Baby Formula Act has a companion bill in the House. It would give USDA more flexibility during a crisis like the shortages currently facing the country. The flexibility would ensure that the brand or type of formula families can buy isn’t restricted by program rules, allowing families to purchase whatever is available in the store. Formula manufacturers would be required to have a plan in place to respond to shortages. “This is an extremely stressful time for parents who are looking high and low for baby formula,” Stabenow says. “Almost half of all babies born in the U.S. rely on the WIC program.”

Senate legislation to address baby formula shortage    

Nutrien says it is evaluating a site in Louisiana as the place to build the world’s biggest clean ammonia facility. 

The new plant would leverage low-cost natural gas, tidewater access to world markets, and high-quality carbon capture and sequestration infrastructure at its existing facility in Geismar, Louisiana. 

The goal would be to serve the growing demand in agriculture, industrial, and emerging energy markets. 

“Our commitment to developing and using both low-carbon and clean ammonia is prominent in our strategy to provide solutions that will help meet the world’s decarbonization goals while sustainably addressing global food insecurity,” says Ken Seitz, Nutrien’s Interim President and CEO. 

The plant will have an annual production capacity of 1.2 million metric tons of clean ammonia and capture at least 90 percent of its carbon emissions. That means the new facility will be able to permanently sequester more than 1.8 million metric tons of carbon in dedicated geological storage every year.

Nutrien says it is evaluating a site in Louisiana as the place to build the world’s biggest clean ammonia facility. The new plant would leverage low-cost natural gas, tidewater access to world markets, and high-quality carbon capture and sequestration infrastructure at its existing facility in Geismar, Louisiana. The goal would be to serve the growing demand in agriculture, industrial, and emerging energy markets. “Our commitment to developing and using both low-carbon and clean ammonia is prominent in our strategy to provide solutions that will help meet the world’s decarbonization goals while sustainably addressing global food insecurity,” says Ken Seitz, Nutrien’s Interim President and CEO. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 1.2 million metric tons of clean ammonia and capture at least 90 percent of its carbon emissions. That means the new facility will be able to permanently sequester more than 1.8 million metric tons of carbon in dedicated geological storage every year.

Nutrien to build world’s largest clean ammonia plant in Louisiana

House lawmakers Abigail Spanberger, a Virginia Democrat, and Anthony Gonzalez, An Ohio Republican, introduced the American Food Supply Chain Resiliency Act this week. 

The bipartisan legislation seeks to strengthen supply chains across the agriculture industry and lower food costs for consumers. 

The bill would establish Supply Chain Regional Resource Centers through cooperative agreements with the Department of Agriculture. 

The centers would offer locally tailored coordination, technical assistance, and grants — leading to more resilient, diverse, and connected supply chains. USDA recently announced its intention through the Agricultural Marketing Service to create Regional Food Business Centers. 

The Spanberger-Gonzalez legislation would codify the centers, renaming them Supply Chain Regional Resource Centers. Under their legislation, these Centers would support supply chain coordination in their region, fund technical assistance providers to offer guidance to food businesses and farms, and provide small grants to entities looking to expand or start their operations in a certain region.

House lawmakers Abigail Spanberger, a Virginia Democrat, and Anthony Gonzalez, An Ohio Republican, introduced the American Food Supply Chain Resiliency Act this week. The bipartisan legislation seeks to strengthen supply chains across the agriculture industry and lower food costs for consumers. The bill would establish Supply Chain Regional Resource Centers through cooperative agreements with the Department of Agriculture. The centers would offer locally tailored coordination, technical assistance, and grants — leading to more resilient, diverse, and connected supply chains. USDA recently announced its intention through the Agricultural Marketing Service to create Regional Food Business Centers. The Spanberger-Gonzalez legislation would codify the centers, renaming them Supply Chain Regional Resource Centers. Under their legislation, these Centers would support supply chain coordination in their region, fund technical assistance providers to offer guidance to food businesses and farms, and provide small grants to entities looking to expand or start their operations in a certain region.

Spanberger, Gonzalez, introduce American Food Supply Chain Resiliency Act

A new University of Illinois study explores potential policy solutions to reduce nitrogen loss while still protecting farmers’ bottom lines. 

Federal and state governments have shied away from regulating nitrogen fertilizer use, but voluntary and incentives-based programs have not been particularly successful, according to the researchers. 

University of Illinois assistant professor Nicolas Martin says, “We want to generate discussions on such policies, rather than provide definitive answers on which policy will be the best.” 

The first policy would modify price ratios, imposing a tax on nitrogen at a set ratio relative to the corn price. The second policy would charge farmers a fee for excess nitrogen leaching from fields above baseline levels. 

The third would subtract nitrogen removed in grain at harvest from nitrogen applied as fertilizer and would charge a fee for the balance. The final policy reflected a voluntary nitrogen reduction program like current programs in the Midwest. Among the four policies, the nitrogen leaching fee showed the best outcome.

A new University of Illinois study explores potential policy solutions to reduce nitrogen loss while still protecting farmers’ bottom lines. Federal and state governments have shied away from regulating nitrogen fertilizer use, but voluntary and incentives-based programs have not been particularly successful, according to the researchers. University of Illinois assistant professor Nicolas Martin says, “We want to generate discussions on such policies, rather than provide definitive answers on which policy will be the best.” The first policy would modify price ratios, imposing a tax on nitrogen at a set ratio relative to the corn price. The second policy would charge farmers a fee for excess nitrogen leaching from fields above baseline levels. The third would subtract nitrogen removed in grain at harvest from nitrogen applied as fertilizer and would charge a fee for the balance. The final policy reflected a voluntary nitrogen reduction program like current programs in the Midwest. Among the four policies, the nitrogen leaching fee showed the best outcome.

Proposed fertilizer policies could protect farmer profits, environment

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Wednesday condemned the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2022, approved by the House Agriculture Committee. 

NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says the legislation was rushed through the legislative process “without consideration of the confusing bureaucratic mess it would create.” 

The special investigator bill would create a new position in the Department of Agriculture with prosecutorial and subpoena power. 

The North American Meat Institute agrees in a statement, adding, “USDA and the Department of Justice already have the authorities this bill would grant making this expansion of government bureaucracy.” 

However, National Farmers Union says the bill would increase enforcement of competition laws and boost USDA’s resources to investigate abusive market practices. 

NFU President Rob Larew says, “Greater enforcement of competition laws by USDA will better ensure America’s independent family farmers and ranchers have a chance to succeed in today's marketplace, now dominated by monopolies.”

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Wednesday condemned the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2022, approved by the House Agriculture Committee. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says the legislation was rushed through the legislative process “without consideration of the confusing bureaucratic mess it would create.” The special investigator bill would create a new position in the Department of Agriculture with prosecutorial and subpoena power. The North American Meat Institute agrees in a statement, adding, “USDA and the Department of Justice already have the authorities this bill would grant making this expansion of government bureaucracy.” However, National Farmers Union says the bill would increase enforcement of competition laws and boost USDA’s resources to investigate abusive market practices. NFU President Rob Larew says, “Greater enforcement of competition laws by USDA will better ensure America’s independent family farmers and ranchers have a chance to succeed in today's marketplace, now dominated by monopolies.”

NCBA condemns meat and poultry Special Investigator Act

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Tuesday signed into law some of the most comprehensive state biofuels legislation in the nation. 

The legislation is expected to boost the sale of higher blends of biodiesel through an incentive-based approach. 

Among other things, the bill increases a Biodiesel Production Tax Credit from two to four cents per gallon while updating the state’s Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Program to increase access to higher blends of biofuels. 

Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen says, “Iowa joins the ranks of Illinois, Minnesota and others with some of the most forwarding-thinking legislation that values the production and use of biodiesel.” 

The legislation also would provide access to E15 statewide by 2026 and update the E15 promotion tax credit to $0.09 per gallon year-round through 2025. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor applauded the bill’s passage, saying the bill “offers drivers across Iowa the opportunity to not only save money at the pump but to make a simple change for the environment.”

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Tuesday signed into law some of the most comprehensive state biofuels legislation in the nation. The legislation is expected to boost the sale of higher blends of biodiesel through an incentive-based approach. Among other things, the bill increases a Biodiesel Production Tax Credit from two to four cents per gallon while updating the state’s Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Program to increase access to higher blends of biofuels. Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen says, “Iowa joins the ranks of Illinois, Minnesota and others with some of the most forwarding-thinking legislation that values the production and use of biodiesel.” The legislation also would provide access to E15 statewide by 2026 and update the E15 promotion tax credit to $0.09 per gallon year-round through 2025. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor applauded the bill’s passage, saying the bill “offers drivers across Iowa the opportunity to not only save money at the pump but to make a simple change for the environment.”

Iowa Governor signs biofuels legislation into law

Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow called on the Department of Agriculture Tuesday to address the infant formula shortage for those relying on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program. 

The Michigan Democrat says, "Millions of Americans rely on the WIC program to get baby formula for their children, so the current shortages are extremely concerning for parents across our country." 

USDA is providing WIC families with the flexibility to use their benefits to buy different types of formula products. Senator Stabenow requested more information from USDA on its use of these and other flexibilities and opportunities for additional action to support WIC families. 

Meanwhile, Abbott, the company whose infant formula plant is shut down, has agreed to enter a consent decree with the Food and Drug Administration. The decree is an agreement between FDA and Abbott on the steps necessary to resume production and maintain the facility.

Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow called on the Department of Agriculture Tuesday to address the infant formula shortage for those relying on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children program. The Michigan Democrat says, "Millions of Americans rely on the WIC program to get baby formula for their children, so the current shortages are extremely concerning for parents across our country." USDA is providing WIC families with the flexibility to use their benefits to buy different types of formula products. Senator Stabenow requested more information from USDA on its use of these and other flexibilities and opportunities for additional action to support WIC families. Meanwhile, Abbott, the company whose infant formula plant is shut down, has agreed to enter a consent decree with the Food and Drug Administration. The decree is an agreement between FDA and Abbott on the steps necessary to resume production and maintain the facility.

Stabenow calls on USDA to address effects of baby formula shortage for WIC families

Cargill Tuesday announced plans to build a new soybean processing facility in Southeast Missouri. 

The facility will have an annual production capacity of 62 million bushels of soybeans. 

Cargill anticipates breaking ground on the project early next year with plans to be operational in 2026. 

The new facility will add approximately 45 full-time positions to the region when complete. With its location on the Mississippi River, the facility will operate year-round and provide farmers opportunity to take advantage of increased domestic demand versus relying solely on seasonal exports. 

Missouri Soybeans CEO and Executive Director Gary Wheeler says, “Missouri Soybeans is very pleased with the new build of a soybean crush facility in Pemiscot County and the direct impact it will bring to our farmers in Southeast Missouri.” 

Cargill has had a presence in Missouri since 1936 and currently operates across 11 locations in the state and employs nearly 1,200 people.

Cargill Tuesday announced plans to build a new soybean processing facility in Southeast Missouri. The facility will have an annual production capacity of 62 million bushels of soybeans. Cargill anticipates breaking ground on the project early next year with plans to be operational in 2026. The new facility will add approximately 45 full-time positions to the region when complete. With its location on the Mississippi River, the facility will operate year-round and provide farmers opportunity to take advantage of increased domestic demand versus relying solely on seasonal exports. Missouri Soybeans CEO and Executive Director Gary Wheeler says, “Missouri Soybeans is very pleased with the new build of a soybean crush facility in Pemiscot County and the direct impact it will bring to our farmers in Southeast Missouri.” Cargill has had a presence in Missouri since 1936 and currently operates across 11 locations in the state and employs nearly 1,200 people.

Cargill announces plans to build new soybean plant in Southeast Missouri

A group of Senators urges the Department of Agriculture to address "extremely high levels of corporate concentration" in the infant formula marketplace.&nbsp;&nbsp;The request comes as infant formula shortages are occurring nationwide. 

Senate Democrats Tammy Duckworth, Cory Booker and Amy Klobuchar say, “The infant formula industry has reached an alarming level of corporate concentration with four companies–Abbott Nutrition, Mead Johnson, Gerber, and Perrigo–controlling nearly 90 percent of the infant formula market.” 

The lawmakers say the concentration creates a serious risk to infant health if there is any disruption to a major manufacturer’s supply. Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urged states to adopt flexibilities to support families. 

Vilsack says, “USDA will continue the work we started in February, working not only within our department, but across the federal government, suppliers and partners to end this infant formula crisis as quickly as possible.” The flexibilities are included in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

A group of Senators urges the Department of Agriculture to address "extremely high levels of corporate concentration" in the infant formula marketplace.&nbsp;&nbsp;The request comes as infant formula shortages are occurring nationwide. Senate Democrats Tammy Duckworth, Cory Booker and Amy Klobuchar say, “The infant formula industry has reached an alarming level of corporate concentration with four companies–Abbott Nutrition, Mead Johnson, Gerber, and Perrigo–controlling nearly 90 percent of the infant formula market.” The lawmakers say the concentration creates a serious risk to infant health if there is any disruption to a major manufacturer’s supply. Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urged states to adopt flexibilities to support families. Vilsack says, “USDA will continue the work we started in February, working not only within our department, but across the federal government, suppliers and partners to end this infant formula crisis as quickly as possible.” The flexibilities are included in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Lawmakers urge USDA to address infant formula shortages

R-CALF USA last week announced the launch of “No Rancher Left Behind,” a rancher/farmer conversation and awareness campaign. 

The campaign is a collaboration between R-CALF USA and Coy Young, a Missouri cattle rancher who recently testified before Congress about the stresses he faces as a cow-calf producer. 

“No Rancher Left Behind” is set to feature informational graphics on social media and a resource webpage with hotline numbers and links to other helpful information, but perhaps most notably, weekly support group style, virtual meetings for ranchers to gather and converse in a safe place. 

Young came up with the idea for the campaign after struggling with his own market-related financial challenges and recently shared his story with the New York Times. Young adds, “If we can help each other when we’re hurting and in need, that’s the greatest accomplishment that could ever come from this campaign and these meetings.” Learn more at r-calfusa.com.

R-CALF USA last week announced the launch of “No Rancher Left Behind,” a rancher/farmer conversation and awareness campaign. The campaign is a collaboration between R-CALF USA and Coy Young, a Missouri cattle rancher who recently testified before Congress about the stresses he faces as a cow-calf producer. “No Rancher Left Behind” is set to feature informational graphics on social media and a resource webpage with hotline numbers and links to other helpful information, but perhaps most notably, weekly support group style, virtual meetings for ranchers to gather and converse in a safe place. Young came up with the idea for the campaign after struggling with his own market-related financial challenges and recently shared his story with the New York Times. Young adds, “If we can help each other when we’re hurting and in need, that’s the greatest accomplishment that could ever come from this campaign and these meetings.” Learn more at r-calfusa.com.

R-CALF launches No Rancher Left Behind campaign

The Biden admiration last week announced the nomination of Alexis Taylor as USDA Undersecretary for Trade. 

Taylor currently serves as the Oregon Director of Agriculture, after previously overseeing the USDA’s Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services during the Obama administration. 

Taylor is an Iowa native, who moved to Oregon after working 12 years in Washington D.C. U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand congratulated Taylor on her appointment, saying she is “a highly qualified candidate to be the USDA Undersecretary for Trade.” 

National Association of Wheat Growers CEO Chandler Goule says, “I have worked with Alexis for over fifteen years and know the industry appreciates her experience and understanding of the agriculture community and trade issues.” 

U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom adds, “USMEF had many opportunities to work with Taylor in her previous roles at USDA and we are confident she will be a strong and effective advocate for U.S. exporters and all of U.S. agriculture.”

The Biden admiration last week announced the nomination of Alexis Taylor as USDA Undersecretary for Trade. Taylor currently serves as the Oregon Director of Agriculture, after previously overseeing the USDA’s Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services during the Obama administration. Taylor is an Iowa native, who moved to Oregon after working 12 years in Washington D.C. U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand congratulated Taylor on her appointment, saying she is “a highly qualified candidate to be the USDA Undersecretary for Trade.” National Association of Wheat Growers CEO Chandler Goule says, “I have worked with Alexis for over fifteen years and know the industry appreciates her experience and understanding of the agriculture community and trade issues.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom adds, “USMEF had many opportunities to work with Taylor in her previous roles at USDA and we are confident she will be a strong and effective advocate for U.S. exporters and all of U.S. agriculture.”

Farm groups welcome USDA Undersecretary for Trade nominee

Overall consumer prices during April were 8.3 percent higher than last year, and America’s families can expect inflation to continue pressuring their wallets for the next few years. 

That conclusion is from American Farm Bureau’s economists who analyzed the inflation numbers in their latest Market Intel report. 

They expect inflation to stay above five or six percent for the foreseeable future. 

The report says too much money was created by the Federal Reserve Bank, mostly in 2020, and it’s inevitably turning into inflation. “Thankfully, the Fed has begun steps to address this, but it will likely take a few years to approach their long-term target of two percent per year,” the report says. 

It also says the Fed injected $6.4 trillion into the economy between March 2020 and the end of 2021, a 42 percent increase in the money supply in 22 months, which is too much money to be absorbed by economic growth.

Overall consumer prices during April were 8.3 percent higher than last year, and America’s families can expect inflation to continue pressuring their wallets for the next few years. That conclusion is from American Farm Bureau’s economists who analyzed the inflation numbers in their latest Market Intel report. They expect inflation to stay above five or six percent for the foreseeable future. The report says too much money was created by the Federal Reserve Bank, mostly in 2020, and it’s inevitably turning into inflation. “Thankfully, the Fed has begun steps to address this, but it will likely take a few years to approach their long-term target of two percent per year,” the report says. It also says the Fed injected $6.4 trillion into the economy between March 2020 and the end of 2021, a 42 percent increase in the money supply in 22 months, which is too much money to be absorbed by economic growth.

Inflation will burden U.S. Economy for several years

<a href="https://mikerowe.com/">Mike Rowe</a>, the narrator of the TV show, "<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/how-america-works">How America Works</a>," features St. Joseph's <a href="https://www.lifeline-foods.com/">Lifeline Foods</a> in an episode that aired last week on the Fox Business Channel. The episode highlights how vital corn farmers and processors are to the rest of the country.

Rowe describes a childhood job of detasseling corn, he said it wasn't the best corn related job that he's ever had. "His best job would be narrating this episode of "How America Works" because he gets to introduce a few of the men and women who are directly responsible for processing over 100,000 tons of corn every single day."

"Corn is our nation's largest crop, so it is safe to say that the U.S. grows a lot of it," Rowe asks, " Just how much are we talking about? Lately, that's just shy of 400 million tons a year, or if we are talking ears of corn, enough to wrap end to end around the earth, five times."

"Every year U.S. farmers plant and harvest an area roughly the size of Montana exclusively with corn. It is then up to 40 corn mills scattered across the country to turn those raw kernals into consumable product," Rowe says. "Mills, like Lifeline Foods in St. Joseph, Missouri, here a team of nearly 200 employees labor day in and day out to create a wide variety of meals, grits and flours used in everything from tortilla chips to beer."

Rowe showcases several of Lifeline's workers- Kyle Mann- Director of Milling Ops, Tom Hayden- Head Fabricator and Andrew Axmacher- Masa Ops Lead. Rowe also has a local corn farmer on the show.

In an interview with KFEQ, Ryan Swafford, Lifeline's Marketing Administrator, talks about who the farmer is, "John Schenkel, who owns Schenkel farms near Maryville, Missouri."

Mike Rowe shows just some of the obstacles that both Lifeline employees and farmer John Schenkel have to overcome to get the corn products ready. 

Rowe concludes the show by showing corn farmer John Schenkel making it to Lifeline, just in time. According to John Schenkel, "It takes about 15 minutes to load the corn, and about 30 seconds to unload. It goes out a lot faster than it goes in."

The episode is available to view online and can be found <a href="https://vimeo.com/warmspringsproductions/review/705521276/022eea5f5b">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652722604067.jpeg" alt="Lifeline Foods /photo by Dionne Bertling" />
 <figcaption>Lifeline Foods /photo by Dionne Bertling</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIONNE BERTLINGSt. Joseph Post<a href="https://mikerowe.com/">Mike Rowe</a>, the narrator of the TV show, "<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/how-america-works">How America Works</a>," features St. Joseph's <a href="https://www.lifeline-foods.com/">Lifeline Foods</a> in an episode that aired last week on the Fox Business Channel. The episode highlights how vital corn farmers and processors are to the rest of the country.Rowe describes a childhood job of detasseling corn, he said it wasn't the best corn related job that he's ever had. "His best job would be narrating this episode of "How America Works" because he gets to introduce a few of the men and women who are directly responsible for processing over 100,000 tons of corn every single day.""Corn is our nation's largest crop, so it is safe to say that the U.S. grows a lot of it," Rowe asks, " Just how much are we talking about? Lately, that's just shy of 400 million tons a year, or if we are talking ears of corn, enough to wrap end to end around the earth, five times.""Every year U.S. farmers plant and harvest an area roughly the size of Montana exclusively with corn. It is then up to 40 corn mills scattered across the country to turn those raw kernals into consumable product," Rowe says. "Mills, like Lifeline Foods in St. Joseph, Missouri, here a team of nearly 200 employees labor day in and day out to create a wide variety of meals, grits and flours used in everything from tortilla chips to beer."Rowe showcases several of Lifeline's workers- Kyle Mann- Director of Milling Ops, Tom Hayden- Head Fabricator and Andrew Axmacher- Masa Ops Lead. Rowe also has a local corn farmer on the show.In an interview with KFEQ, Ryan Swafford, Lifeline's Marketing Administrator, talks about who the farmer is, "John Schenkel, who owns Schenkel farms near Maryville, Missouri."Mike Rowe shows just some of the obstacles that both Lifeline employees and farmer John Schenkel have to overcome to get the corn products ready. Rowe concludes the show by showing corn farmer John Schenkel making it to Lifeline, just in time. According to John Schenkel, "It takes about 15 minutes to load the corn, and about 30 seconds to unload. It goes out a lot faster than it goes in."The episode is available to view online and can be found <a href="https://vimeo.com/warmspringsproductions/review/705521276/022eea5f5b">HERE</a>.

St. Joseph takes the spotlight on "How America Works"

USDA says sales of corn, beans, and wheat to overseas buyers plunged to marketing-year low points during the week ending on May 5. 

Agency data says corn sales during the week dropped to 192,700 metric tons, down 75 percent from the previous week and 80 percent from the prior four-week average. 

It’s also the lowest total since the marketing year began on September 1, 2021. 

Japan was the top corn buyer at 132,600 metric tons. Soybean sales during the week hit 143,700 metric tons, 80 percent lower than the previous week and 74 percent year-over-year. Indonesia was the top buyer with 66,200 metric tons. 

Wheat sales dipped to 14,100 metric tons, the lowest since the grain marketing year began on June 1 of last year. That total was 88 percent lower than the previous week and 79 percent from the average. Colombia was the top buyer with 40,000 metric tons.

USDA says sales of corn, beans, and wheat to overseas buyers plunged to marketing-year low points during the week ending on May 5. Agency data says corn sales during the week dropped to 192,700 metric tons, down 75 percent from the previous week and 80 percent from the prior four-week average. It’s also the lowest total since the marketing year began on September 1, 2021. Japan was the top corn buyer at 132,600 metric tons. Soybean sales during the week hit 143,700 metric tons, 80 percent lower than the previous week and 74 percent year-over-year. Indonesia was the top buyer with 66,200 metric tons. Wheat sales dipped to 14,100 metric tons, the lowest since the grain marketing year began on June 1 of last year. That total was 88 percent lower than the previous week and 79 percent from the average. Colombia was the top buyer with 40,000 metric tons.

Export sales hit marketing-year lows

The European Commission says it will work with the EU governments to help Ukraine export millions of tons of grain currently stuck in the country. 

As part of the Russian invasion, Russia’s navy has blocked Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. 

Ukraine was the fourth-largest grain exporter during the 2020-2021 season, selling 44.7 million tons abroad, mainly to China, Africa, and Europe. 

The closed seaports are causing problems getting grain out of Ukraine and threatening the world’s food supply, especially in poorer regions like Africa. Reuters says getting Ukraine’s products out quickly by train is challenging too because the country’s rail system has different widths of track from Europe. 

That means the grain has to get transferred at the border to different trains. To make things even worse, there aren’t a lot of transfer facilities on the border. The Commission will take several steps to prioritize Ukraine’s grain shipments at their terminals.

The European Commission says it will work with the EU governments to help Ukraine export millions of tons of grain currently stuck in the country. As part of the Russian invasion, Russia’s navy has blocked Ukraine’s Black Sea ports. Ukraine was the fourth-largest grain exporter during the 2020-2021 season, selling 44.7 million tons abroad, mainly to China, Africa, and Europe. The closed seaports are causing problems getting grain out of Ukraine and threatening the world’s food supply, especially in poorer regions like Africa. Reuters says getting Ukraine’s products out quickly by train is challenging too because the country’s rail system has different widths of track from Europe. That means the grain has to get transferred at the border to different trains. To make things even worse, there aren’t a lot of transfer facilities on the border. The Commission will take several steps to prioritize Ukraine’s grain shipments at their terminals.

European Union to help Ukraine export grain

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output rose to the highest level in a month during the week ending on May 6. 

Ethanol inventories increased for the first time in six weeks. 

Ethanol production rose to an average of 991,000 barrels a day, up from 969,000 barrels during the prior week. It was also the highest level since April 8. 

In the Midwest, which produces the most of any region in the country, production rose to 941,000 barrels a day, up from 915,000 the week before. It's also the highest level in the Midwest since April 8. 

The Midwest was the only region that saw an increase. Gulf Coast and West Coast production levels remained the same at 24,000 and 9,000 barrels a day, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rocky Mountain output dropped to 12,000 barrels a day, the lowest output since December. Ethanol inventories increased to 24.14 million barrels during the week, the highest since April 15.

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output rose to the highest level in a month during the week ending on May 6. Ethanol inventories increased for the first time in six weeks. Ethanol production rose to an average of 991,000 barrels a day, up from 969,000 barrels during the prior week. It was also the highest level since April 8. In the Midwest, which produces the most of any region in the country, production rose to 941,000 barrels a day, up from 915,000 the week before. It's also the highest level in the Midwest since April 8. The Midwest was the only region that saw an increase. Gulf Coast and West Coast production levels remained the same at 24,000 and 9,000 barrels a day, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rocky Mountain output dropped to 12,000 barrels a day, the lowest output since December. Ethanol inventories increased to 24.14 million barrels during the week, the highest since April 15.