The Biden administration helped to broker a deal between the major railroads and labor unions. 

The agreement avoids a rail shutdown but still has to be approved by a vote of union members. 

The biggest issue in the dispute wasn’t pay but working conditions. 

Some freight rail engineers and conductors faced on-call schedules that could see them called to work on short notice up to seven days a week.&nbsp;&nbsp;CNN says roughly 30 percent of America’s freight moves by rail. Recently harvested crops would be stuck, unable to reach processing plants and risk spoiling. 

The shutdown would have likely made inflation worse, cost the U.S. economy up to $2 billion a day, and affected the agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors of the economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, told Reuters that the deal is great for the ethanol industry as much of the country’s biofuel supplies are moved by railroads.

The Biden administration helped to broker a deal between the major railroads and labor unions. The agreement avoids a rail shutdown but still has to be approved by a vote of union members. The biggest issue in the dispute wasn’t pay but working conditions. Some freight rail engineers and conductors faced on-call schedules that could see them called to work on short notice up to seven days a week.&nbsp;&nbsp;CNN says roughly 30 percent of America’s freight moves by rail. Recently harvested crops would be stuck, unable to reach processing plants and risk spoiling. The shutdown would have likely made inflation worse, cost the U.S. economy up to $2 billion a day, and affected the agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors of the economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, told Reuters that the deal is great for the ethanol industry as much of the country’s biofuel supplies are moved by railroads.

Tentative railroad agreement reached

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reiterated the need for a limited version of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s greenhouse gas disclosure rule. 

SEC Chair Gary Gensler recently testified before the Senate Committee on Banking. 

“The SEC’s proposed greenhouse gas disclosure rule is aimed at large publicly-traded companies but would lead to unintended consequences for small businesses like farms and ranches,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. 

“The rule would require data that simply does not exist at the farm or ranch level and increases the regulatory burden on individual cattle producers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;She also says they’re asking the SEC to limit their proposed rule to avoid unintentional impacts to farms and ranches across the country. 

The greenhouse gas rule would require businesses up and down the beef supply chain to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, including farms and ranches. The rule would also expose individual producers to additional levels of legal liability.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reiterated the need for a limited version of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s greenhouse gas disclosure rule. SEC Chair Gary Gensler recently testified before the Senate Committee on Banking. “The SEC’s proposed greenhouse gas disclosure rule is aimed at large publicly-traded companies but would lead to unintended consequences for small businesses like farms and ranches,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “The rule would require data that simply does not exist at the farm or ranch level and increases the regulatory burden on individual cattle producers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;She also says they’re asking the SEC to limit their proposed rule to avoid unintentional impacts to farms and ranches across the country. The greenhouse gas rule would require businesses up and down the beef supply chain to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, including farms and ranches. The rule would also expose individual producers to additional levels of legal liability.

NCBA wants limited greenhouse gas rule

House Agriculture Committee Chair David Scott spoke after a hearing titled “Soil Health Practices and Programs that Support Regenerative Agriculture. ”

As I noted after my first hearing as Chair in 2021, changing weather patterns have introduced significant risks to agricultural production, forest resources, and the economy will affect risk-management tools, financial markets, and global food security,” Scott says. 

“The risks to agriculture are why topics like soil health are important to consider.” 

He also says the witnesses at the hearing provided the committee with valuable insight to help them better understand the conservation and economic benefits of soil health practices and how they support regenerative agriculture. 

“The lessons we learned through the Dust Bowl led to the creation of the Natural Resources Conservation Service,” Scott adds. “In the face of growing climate challenges, managing soil health is one of the most effective ways farmers can increase productivity and protect natural resources.”

House Agriculture Committee Chair David Scott spoke after a hearing titled “Soil Health Practices and Programs that Support Regenerative Agriculture. ”As I noted after my first hearing as Chair in 2021, changing weather patterns have introduced significant risks to agricultural production, forest resources, and the economy will affect risk-management tools, financial markets, and global food security,” Scott says. “The risks to agriculture are why topics like soil health are important to consider.” He also says the witnesses at the hearing provided the committee with valuable insight to help them better understand the conservation and economic benefits of soil health practices and how they support regenerative agriculture. “The lessons we learned through the Dust Bowl led to the creation of the Natural Resources Conservation Service,” Scott adds. “In the face of growing climate challenges, managing soil health is one of the most effective ways farmers can increase productivity and protect natural resources.”

Scott speaks on Soil Health, Regenerative practices after House ag hearing

The National Association of Conservation Districts is one of 70 partners selected to participate in USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities Program. 

The NACD will receive a grant of up to $90 million over three years for technical, financial, and marketing assistance. 

The association intends to advance grassroots efforts that ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet growing demand and have access to climate-smart commodity markets. 

The NACD’s goal is to leave no producer behind. “We’re thrilled about the opportunity to invest in local communities through the Climate-Smart Commodities Program,” says NACD President Michael Crowder.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We know that producers are more likely to implement climate-smart practices if transition risks are minimized and they have ready access to profitable market opportunities.” 

Roughly 70 percent of land in the lower 48 states is privately owned, which means implementing sound conservation practices relies on individual producers. This assistance will support producers in making sound conservation decisions.

The National Association of Conservation Districts is one of 70 partners selected to participate in USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities Program. The NACD will receive a grant of up to $90 million over three years for technical, financial, and marketing assistance. The association intends to advance grassroots efforts that ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet growing demand and have access to climate-smart commodity markets. The NACD’s goal is to leave no producer behind. “We’re thrilled about the opportunity to invest in local communities through the Climate-Smart Commodities Program,” says NACD President Michael Crowder.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We know that producers are more likely to implement climate-smart practices if transition risks are minimized and they have ready access to profitable market opportunities.” Roughly 70 percent of land in the lower 48 states is privately owned, which means implementing sound conservation practices relies on individual producers. This assistance will support producers in making sound conservation decisions.

NACD: “Leave no producer behind”

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the USDA is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects under the first pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity. 

USDA’s initial investment of $1 billion is expected to triple to more than $3 billion in pilot projects that will create market opportunities for American commodities produced using climate-smart practices. 

These projects will expand markets for climate-smart commodities, leverage greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production, and provide meaningful benefits to production agriculture. 

Applicants submitted more than 450 project proposals for the first round of funding. “There is strong and growing interest in the private sector and among consumers for food that’s grown in a climate-friendly way,” Vilsack says. 

The strength of the 70 projects led USDA to increase its investment from the $1 billion announced earlier this year. More information on Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities and program details are available at usda.gov.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the USDA is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 selected projects under the first pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity. USDA’s initial investment of $1 billion is expected to triple to more than $3 billion in pilot projects that will create market opportunities for American commodities produced using climate-smart practices. These projects will expand markets for climate-smart commodities, leverage greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production, and provide meaningful benefits to production agriculture. Applicants submitted more than 450 project proposals for the first round of funding. “There is strong and growing interest in the private sector and among consumers for food that’s grown in a climate-friendly way,” Vilsack says. The strength of the 70 projects led USDA to increase its investment from the $1 billion announced earlier this year. More information on Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities and program details are available at usda.gov.

USDA investing $2.8 billion in Climate-Smart Commodities partnerships and projects

The Consumer Price Index increased 0.1 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis after being unchanged in July. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday Increases in the shelter, food, and medical care indexes were the largest contributors to the broad-based monthly all items increase. 

The food index increased 0.8 percent in August, the smallest monthly increase in that index since December 2021. 

The food at home index rose 0.7 percent in August as all six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The index for other food at home rose 1.1 percent, while the index for cereals and bakery products rose 1.2 percent over the month. 

The meats, poultry, fish, and eggs index, the fruits and vegetables index, and the nonalcoholic beverages index all increased 0.5 percent in August. The index for dairy and related products increased 0.3 percent over the month, the smallest increase in that index since November 2021.

The Consumer Price Index increased 0.1 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis after being unchanged in July. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday Increases in the shelter, food, and medical care indexes were the largest contributors to the broad-based monthly all items increase. The food index increased 0.8 percent in August, the smallest monthly increase in that index since December 2021. The food at home index rose 0.7 percent in August as all six major grocery store food group indexes increased. The index for other food at home rose 1.1 percent, while the index for cereals and bakery products rose 1.2 percent over the month. The meats, poultry, fish, and eggs index, the fruits and vegetables index, and the nonalcoholic beverages index all increased 0.5 percent in August. The index for dairy and related products increased 0.3 percent over the month, the smallest increase in that index since November 2021.

August Consumer Price Index increases

An Executive Order by President Joe Biden announced this week focuses on advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing innovation. 

Specifically, the order seeks innovative solutions in health, climate change, energy, food security, agriculture, supply chains, and national and economic security. 

The White House says, “For biotechnology and biomanufacturing to help us achieve our societal goals, the United States needs to invest in foundational scientific capabilities.” 

Of note, the order will bolster federal investment in key research and development areas, boost sustainable biomass production, create climate-smart incentives for American agriculture, and expand market opportunities for bioenergy and biobased products. 

Within 180 days, the order directs the Agriculture Secretary to issue a report assessing how to use biotechnology and biomanufacturing for food and agriculture innovation. 

This includes improving sustainability and land conservation, increasing food quality and nutrition, increasing and protecting crop yields, protecting against plant and animal pests and diseases, and cultivating alternative food sources.

An Executive Order by President Joe Biden announced this week focuses on advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing innovation. Specifically, the order seeks innovative solutions in health, climate change, energy, food security, agriculture, supply chains, and national and economic security. The White House says, “For biotechnology and biomanufacturing to help us achieve our societal goals, the United States needs to invest in foundational scientific capabilities.” Of note, the order will bolster federal investment in key research and development areas, boost sustainable biomass production, create climate-smart incentives for American agriculture, and expand market opportunities for bioenergy and biobased products. Within 180 days, the order directs the Agriculture Secretary to issue a report assessing how to use biotechnology and biomanufacturing for food and agriculture innovation. This includes improving sustainability and land conservation, increasing food quality and nutrition, increasing and protecting crop yields, protecting against plant and animal pests and diseases, and cultivating alternative food sources.

Executive order seeks advancement of biotechnology

The Center for Food Safety this week filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The lawsuit claims the EPA is unlawfully withholding records about the impacts of dicamba. 

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California, alleges that EPA withheld public records from an agency report showing that control measures in its 2020 dicamba registration decision failed to reduce the number, severity, or geographic extent of dicamba-related incidents compared to prior seasons. 

Meredith Stevenson, staff attorney at the Center for Food Safety, says the action "reflects the agency's pattern of thwarting the public's access to information under FOIA." In June 2022, the center submitted a FOIA request to EPA, seeking documents referenced in the agency's December 2021 report on dicamba. 

The EPA has yet to produce any records, prompting CFS to now sue under FOIA law. The lawsuit comes amid an ongoing lawsuit challenging the legality of EPA's 2020 registration of over-the-top dicamba pesticide uses on dicamba-resistant cotton and soybeans.

The Center for Food Safety this week filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;The lawsuit claims the EPA is unlawfully withholding records about the impacts of dicamba. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California, alleges that EPA withheld public records from an agency report showing that control measures in its 2020 dicamba registration decision failed to reduce the number, severity, or geographic extent of dicamba-related incidents compared to prior seasons. Meredith Stevenson, staff attorney at the Center for Food Safety, says the action "reflects the agency's pattern of thwarting the public's access to information under FOIA." In June 2022, the center submitted a FOIA request to EPA, seeking documents referenced in the agency's December 2021 report on dicamba. The EPA has yet to produce any records, prompting CFS to now sue under FOIA law. The lawsuit comes amid an ongoing lawsuit challenging the legality of EPA's 2020 registration of over-the-top dicamba pesticide uses on dicamba-resistant cotton and soybeans.

Lawsuit seeks documents from EPA regarding Dicamba harms

Corn, soybean, and cotton production is down from 2021, according to Monday's Crop Production report issued by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. 

Corn production is down eight percent from last year, forecast at 13.9 billion bushels, while soybean growers are expected to decrease their production one percent from 2021, forecast at 4.38 billion bushels. 

Meanwhile, cotton production is down 21 percent from 2021 at 13.8 million 480-pound bales. 

Planted corn area is estimated at 88.6 million acres, down one from the previous estimate. Area planted to soybeans is estimated at 87.5 million acres, down one percent from the previous estimate, but cotton planted area is estimated at 13.8 million acres, up 11 percent from the previous estimate. 

The U.S. season-average soybean price is forecast at $14.35 per bushel, unchanged from last month. Meanwhile, USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand report raised the season-average corn price ten cents to $6.75 per bushel. USDA also lowered the season-average farm price for wheat 25 cents to $9.00 per bushel.

Corn, soybean, and cotton production is down from 2021, according to Monday's Crop Production report issued by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Corn production is down eight percent from last year, forecast at 13.9 billion bushels, while soybean growers are expected to decrease their production one percent from 2021, forecast at 4.38 billion bushels. Meanwhile, cotton production is down 21 percent from 2021 at 13.8 million 480-pound bales. Planted corn area is estimated at 88.6 million acres, down one from the previous estimate. Area planted to soybeans is estimated at 87.5 million acres, down one percent from the previous estimate, but cotton planted area is estimated at 13.8 million acres, up 11 percent from the previous estimate. The U.S. season-average soybean price is forecast at $14.35 per bushel, unchanged from last month. Meanwhile, USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand report raised the season-average corn price ten cents to $6.75 per bushel. USDA also lowered the season-average farm price for wheat 25 cents to $9.00 per bushel.

USDA forecasts US corn, soybean, and cotton production down from 2021

The Fertilizer Institute over the weekend again urged Congress to take action to avoid a freight rail shutdown on September 16. 

TFI sent a letter to Congressional leaders pushing for intervention to prevent a stoppage from occurring. 

TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "A stoppage hasn't yet happened, but we are already feeling the negative effects of non-resolution." 

Rail carriers announced Friday evening that shipments of fertilizer products, such as ammonia – a key fertilizer and building block for approximately three-fourths of all fertilizer – will start coming off rail networks this week. 

Rosenbusch contends the situation will get exponentially worse every day there is no resolution, adding, "if they cannot reach an agreement, Congress must act to avoid an economic catastrophe that will only add to inflation and increase consumer pain." 

Congress can prevent rail workers from striking and has done so before, in 1986 when then-President Ronald Reagan intervened in the strike of workers for Maine Central railway.

The Fertilizer Institute over the weekend again urged Congress to take action to avoid a freight rail shutdown on September 16. TFI sent a letter to Congressional leaders pushing for intervention to prevent a stoppage from occurring. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "A stoppage hasn't yet happened, but we are already feeling the negative effects of non-resolution." Rail carriers announced Friday evening that shipments of fertilizer products, such as ammonia – a key fertilizer and building block for approximately three-fourths of all fertilizer – will start coming off rail networks this week. Rosenbusch contends the situation will get exponentially worse every day there is no resolution, adding, "if they cannot reach an agreement, Congress must act to avoid an economic catastrophe that will only add to inflation and increase consumer pain." Congress can prevent rail workers from striking and has done so before, in 1986 when then-President Ronald Reagan intervened in the strike of workers for Maine Central railway.

The Fertilizer Institute urges Congress Act to avoid a freight rail shutdown

Lawmakers led by Florida Senator Marco Rubio recently asked U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to investigate the flood of surplus agricultural products from Mexico. 

The request, filed as a petition under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, says actions by Mexico over the last two decades have burdened and restricted U.S. commerce. 

The lawmakers say that for more than 20 years, Mexico has leveraged heavy subsidies and low wages in a scheme to conduct a “conquest of external markets” and displace Florida’s seasonal and perishable agricultural industry from the domestic U.S. market. 

Specifically, the petition names fruits and vegetables grown with subsidized horticultural infrastructure and other forms of Mexican government support as a marketplace burden for U.S. growers, and may allow Mexico the ability to set market prices that harm American consumers. 

Provisions of the amended Trade Act of 1974 gives USTR authority to investigate and redress unreasonable trade practices that burden and restrict U.S. commerce.

Lawmakers led by Florida Senator Marco Rubio recently asked U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to investigate the flood of surplus agricultural products from Mexico. The request, filed as a petition under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, says actions by Mexico over the last two decades have burdened and restricted U.S. commerce. The lawmakers say that for more than 20 years, Mexico has leveraged heavy subsidies and low wages in a scheme to conduct a “conquest of external markets” and displace Florida’s seasonal and perishable agricultural industry from the domestic U.S. market. Specifically, the petition names fruits and vegetables grown with subsidized horticultural infrastructure and other forms of Mexican government support as a marketplace burden for U.S. growers, and may allow Mexico the ability to set market prices that harm American consumers. Provisions of the amended Trade Act of 1974 gives USTR authority to investigate and redress unreasonable trade practices that burden and restrict U.S. commerce.

Lawmakers ask USTR to protect growers from unfair practices by Mexico

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is accepting applications for its ReConnect Program loans and grants to expand access to high-speed internet for millions of people in rural America. 

The agency is making over $1 billion available for the program, a critical piece of the effort to connect every American to affordable and reliable high-speed internet. 

“Ensuring that the people of rural America get connected with reliable high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of the country,” Vilsack says. 

“That’s why high-speed internet is an important part of USDA Rural Development’s work with rural communities.” USDA is accepting applications for loans with available funds of $150 million, grants with available funds of $700 million, and combination loan/grant awards using $300 million under the ReConnect Program. 

“Reliable high-speed internet opens the world’s marketplace to rural business owners,” Vilsack adds. The application deadline is November 2. Go to rd.usda.gov for information.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is accepting applications for its ReConnect Program loans and grants to expand access to high-speed internet for millions of people in rural America. The agency is making over $1 billion available for the program, a critical piece of the effort to connect every American to affordable and reliable high-speed internet. “Ensuring that the people of rural America get connected with reliable high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of the country,” Vilsack says. “That’s why high-speed internet is an important part of USDA Rural Development’s work with rural communities.” USDA is accepting applications for loans with available funds of $150 million, grants with available funds of $700 million, and combination loan/grant awards using $300 million under the ReConnect Program. “Reliable high-speed internet opens the world’s marketplace to rural business owners,” Vilsack adds. The application deadline is November 2. Go to rd.usda.gov for information.

Applications open for the rural high-speed internet program

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo hosted counterparts from the 13 Indo-Pacific Economic Framework partner countries. 

Those partners represent over 40 percent of the world’s economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the first official in-person Ministerial meeting, the ministers had positive and constructive discussions and announced a substantial milestone in their pursuit of the framework. 

“This meeting was a chance to deepen our partnerships and fill in the details about how we will work collectively to address the challenges and opportunities that will define the 21st century,” says Tai. 

As the meeting concluded, the partners reached a consensus on ministerial statements for each of the four IPEF pillars, including trade, supply chains, clean economies, and fair economies. 

“After days of intensive discussions, we made real progress toward that goal, and I’m excited to continue developing this Framework, which will unlock enormous economic value for our region and be an example for the world.”

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo hosted counterparts from the 13 Indo-Pacific Economic Framework partner countries. Those partners represent over 40 percent of the world’s economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the first official in-person Ministerial meeting, the ministers had positive and constructive discussions and announced a substantial milestone in their pursuit of the framework. “This meeting was a chance to deepen our partnerships and fill in the details about how we will work collectively to address the challenges and opportunities that will define the 21st century,” says Tai. As the meeting concluded, the partners reached a consensus on ministerial statements for each of the four IPEF pillars, including trade, supply chains, clean economies, and fair economies. “After days of intensive discussions, we made real progress toward that goal, and I’m excited to continue developing this Framework, which will unlock enormous economic value for our region and be an example for the world.”

U.S. meets with Indo-Pacific framework partners

The National Grain and Feed Association asked Congress to intervene, if necessary, to prevent any interruptions of rail service that could occur if negotiations fail between carriers and labor groups. 

Last week, the association sent letters to the leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation, and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

Association members want Congress to prevent a rail stoppage “of any duration,” noting that uninterrupted rail service is vital to the American agricultural economy. 

“The U.S. rail network moves critical agricultural inputs and significant quantities of agricultural products,” the letter says. “These essential items are transported by rail to domestic facilities and ports for exports abroad. 

A complete stoppage of the rail system would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities resulting in devastating consequences to the country’s national and global security.” They also say most freight railroads lack the capacity to make up for any downtime. &nbsp;

The National Grain and Feed Association asked Congress to intervene, if necessary, to prevent any interruptions of rail service that could occur if negotiations fail between carriers and labor groups. Last week, the association sent letters to the leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation, and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Association members want Congress to prevent a rail stoppage “of any duration,” noting that uninterrupted rail service is vital to the American agricultural economy. “The U.S. rail network moves critical agricultural inputs and significant quantities of agricultural products,” the letter says. “These essential items are transported by rail to domestic facilities and ports for exports abroad. A complete stoppage of the rail system would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities resulting in devastating consequences to the country’s national and global security.” They also say most freight railroads lack the capacity to make up for any downtime. &nbsp;

NGFA wants intervention in rail disputes

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service announced Tuesday the agency will review all available acreage data for select crops. USDA NASS will review planted and harvested acreage for chickpeas, corn, cotton, dry edible peas, lentils, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets, in preparation for the September Crop Production report. 

The reviewed information includes survey data, satellite-based data, and the latest information from USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency. If the data review justifies any changes, NASS will publish updated planted and harvested acreage estimates in the September 12 Crop Production report. 

USDA says it is a normal practice for NASS to review data in September for many of these crops. The review typically takes place in October for corn, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets. However, USDA says the datasets are sufficiently complete this year to consider adjustments in September. In October, NASS will review acreage for canola, dry edible beans, and sunflowers.

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service announced Tuesday the agency will review all available acreage data for select crops. USDA NASS will review planted and harvested acreage for chickpeas, corn, cotton, dry edible peas, lentils, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets, in preparation for the September Crop Production report. The reviewed information includes survey data, satellite-based data, and the latest information from USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency. If the data review justifies any changes, NASS will publish updated planted and harvested acreage estimates in the September 12 Crop Production report. USDA says it is a normal practice for NASS to review data in September for many of these crops. The review typically takes place in October for corn, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets. However, USDA says the datasets are sufficiently complete this year to consider adjustments in September. In October, NASS will review acreage for canola, dry edible beans, and sunflowers.

USDA NASS to review acreage information

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on a new approach to indemnity valuation and a new indemnity framework. The advanced notice describes two structural changes to the indemnity regulations. 

The first is the use of an annual indemnity value table to standardize the indemnification process and resolve discrepancies between disease programs. Under the new approach, APHIS would collaborate with other USDA agencies, including the Farm Service Agency’s Livestock Indemnity Program, to develop USDA indemnity values and the methodology to determine them. The values would be published online annually. 

Second, the proposal describes an approach to standardize allowances for appraisal when an indemnity value cannot be calculated using the tables or when a producer elects to appeal the value based on extraordinary circumstances. This approach would resolve known challenges with indemnification based on fair market appraisal by an appraiser. The public comment period is open through November 6, 2022.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on a new approach to indemnity valuation and a new indemnity framework. The advanced notice describes two structural changes to the indemnity regulations. The first is the use of an annual indemnity value table to standardize the indemnification process and resolve discrepancies between disease programs. Under the new approach, APHIS would collaborate with other USDA agencies, including the Farm Service Agency’s Livestock Indemnity Program, to develop USDA indemnity values and the methodology to determine them. The values would be published online annually. Second, the proposal describes an approach to standardize allowances for appraisal when an indemnity value cannot be calculated using the tables or when a producer elects to appeal the value based on extraordinary circumstances. This approach would resolve known challenges with indemnification based on fair market appraisal by an appraiser. The public comment period is open through November 6, 2022.

USDA seeks livestock disease indemnity valuation comments

Farmer sentiment improved in August as the Purdue-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 14 points above its July reading to 117. Both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations increased last month. 

Producers were less worried about their farm’s financial situation than in July, although they remain concerned about a possible cost-price squeeze. When asked about their biggest concerns for the next year, more than half of respondents chose higher input costs. Other concerns include rising interest rates, input availability, and lower output prices. 

Despite this month's improvement in sentiment, all three indices remain well below year-ago levels. Finally, this month's survey revealed an uptick in the percentage of farmers engaged with companies offering payments to sequester carbon. However, just one percent of respondents said they've signed a carbon contract, with the majority of those choosing not to sign, suggesting that payment rates offered remain too low.

Farmer sentiment improved in August as the Purdue-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 14 points above its July reading to 117. Both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations increased last month. Producers were less worried about their farm’s financial situation than in July, although they remain concerned about a possible cost-price squeeze. When asked about their biggest concerns for the next year, more than half of respondents chose higher input costs. Other concerns include rising interest rates, input availability, and lower output prices. Despite this month's improvement in sentiment, all three indices remain well below year-ago levels. Finally, this month's survey revealed an uptick in the percentage of farmers engaged with companies offering payments to sequester carbon. However, just one percent of respondents said they've signed a carbon contract, with the majority of those choosing not to sign, suggesting that payment rates offered remain too low.

August ag economy barometer increases

The Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency will announce a rule this year detailing annual biofuel-blending mandates for three years instead of just one year. Three sources told Reuters that the multi-year announcement will provide longer-term certainty to the refining and biofuel industries. 

Reuters says they’ve been battling over the Renewable Fuel Standard’s annual mandates since it first began. One source who requested anonymity says, “They’re trying to put together a proposal for 2023, 2024, and 2025, where once they have the proposals together, then they don’t have to go back in and don’t have to change or modify the volumes.” 

According to a legal document filed in July, the EPA has been ordered to propose a rulemaking for 2023 mandates by November 16. While Congress has set the mandates since the RFS began, the EPA will have the authority to set multi-year mandates and make other changes starting next year.

The Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency will announce a rule this year detailing annual biofuel-blending mandates for three years instead of just one year. Three sources told Reuters that the multi-year announcement will provide longer-term certainty to the refining and biofuel industries. Reuters says they’ve been battling over the Renewable Fuel Standard’s annual mandates since it first began. One source who requested anonymity says, “They’re trying to put together a proposal for 2023, 2024, and 2025, where once they have the proposals together, then they don’t have to go back in and don’t have to change or modify the volumes.” According to a legal document filed in July, the EPA has been ordered to propose a rulemaking for 2023 mandates by November 16. While Congress has set the mandates since the RFS began, the EPA will have the authority to set multi-year mandates and make other changes starting next year.

Three years of biofuel blending mandates coming in November

The Kansas City Fed says strong growth in farm real estate debt pushed agricultural loan balances higher at commercial banks in the second quarter. Outstanding farm debt increased by five percent from last year, the fastest pace in almost six years. 

While agricultural real estate loans continued to build, production lending rose more modestly following subdued demand in recent years. Loan performance continued to improve. Recent loan growth supported a slight improvement in the interest margins and income at agricultural banks from last quarter, but bank liquidity remained abundant. The agricultural economy remained steady over the past quarter providing ongoing support to farm finances. 

With substantially higher production costs and weather risks, incomes could be pressured if commodity prices drop more notably. Despite some growing risks, farm balance sheets remained strong alongside high liquidity, and a sharp increase in farm real estate values also continued to support agricultural credit conditions.

The Kansas City Fed says strong growth in farm real estate debt pushed agricultural loan balances higher at commercial banks in the second quarter. Outstanding farm debt increased by five percent from last year, the fastest pace in almost six years. While agricultural real estate loans continued to build, production lending rose more modestly following subdued demand in recent years. Loan performance continued to improve. Recent loan growth supported a slight improvement in the interest margins and income at agricultural banks from last quarter, but bank liquidity remained abundant. The agricultural economy remained steady over the past quarter providing ongoing support to farm finances. With substantially higher production costs and weather risks, incomes could be pressured if commodity prices drop more notably. Despite some growing risks, farm balance sheets remained strong alongside high liquidity, and a sharp increase in farm real estate values also continued to support agricultural credit conditions.

Real estate lending pushes farm debit higher

Global food prices dropped for a fifth-straight month after a seasonal rise in supplies took place and demand dropped for some products.

 The northern hemisphere wheat harvest is helping to ease supply concerns as more grain moves out of Ukraine. A U.N. index of world food costs dropped 1.9 percent in August and remains at its lowest level since January. While consumers will feel some relief, the declines aren’t as sharp as they were in July, when food prices dropped the most since 2008. Food prices do remain higher than last year. Food costs fell across the board last month, with vegetable oils dropping slightly below last year’s level. 

More palm oil supplies from Indonesia and seasonally rising outputs in southeast Asia helped to lower prices. Import demand for sunflower oil is subdued. Dairy stocks remained adequate. Major poultry importers reduced purchases, and domestic bovine meat demand in key exporters was weak.

Global food prices dropped for a fifth-straight month after a seasonal rise in supplies took place and demand dropped for some products. The northern hemisphere wheat harvest is helping to ease supply concerns as more grain moves out of Ukraine. A U.N. index of world food costs dropped 1.9 percent in August and remains at its lowest level since January. While consumers will feel some relief, the declines aren’t as sharp as they were in July, when food prices dropped the most since 2008. Food prices do remain higher than last year. Food costs fell across the board last month, with vegetable oils dropping slightly below last year’s level. More palm oil supplies from Indonesia and seasonally rising outputs in southeast Asia helped to lower prices. Import demand for sunflower oil is subdued. Dairy stocks remained adequate. Major poultry importers reduced purchases, and domestic bovine meat demand in key exporters was weak.

World food prices continue falling as supply levels rise

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An agricultural tax law professor from Washburn University doesn't see a whole lot of positives in the government expansion bill euphemized as the inflation reduction act.

"This is an example of government picking winners and losers,"&nbsp;said Roger McEowen, the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. "If you're in a certain type of industry, if you're into renewables, so called green energy, you are being favored. If you're in the oil and gas industry, if you are a major manufacturer of the old style economic system of production in this country, you are disfavored."

McEowen sees the economics behind the legislation as detached from reality.

"This whole bill is based on&nbsp;Modern Monetary Theory, which, in essence, is just simply warmed over Keynesianism from 90 years ago," McEowen said. "It didn't prove true then. It won't prove true now. What that theory means is, we can spend, the government can spend as much money as it wants and has no impact on inflation. That's again, trying to redefine the laws of economics. It doesn't work."

He goes further to say that renewable energy is parasitic in nature, feeding the urban needs at the cost of rural America.

"This is cost shifting problems from the urban areas to you," McEowen said. "They don't have space to put up wind farms in urban areas. They find space out here. They use your land. They scar the aesthetics of the countryside and then they ship that electricity back to them."

The non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation also says that average tax rates will increase for nearly every income category in 2023.

According to McEowen's&nbsp;<a href="https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/agriculturallaw/2022/09/declaring-inflation-reduced-and-being-forgiving-recent-developments-in-tax-and-law.html">blog post</a>, the JCT says that taxes will rise by $16.7 billion in 2023 on those earning less than $200,000 annually and those making between $200,000 and $500,000 will pay $14.1 billion more. The JCT also concluded that 61 percent of taxpayers making between $40,000 and $50,000 will see a tax increase, and that 91 percent of taxpayers making between $100,000 and $200,000 will see higher taxes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584977157818.jpeg" alt="Roger McEowen is the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. " />
 <figcaption>Roger McEowen is the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. </figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — An agricultural tax law professor from Washburn University doesn't see a whole lot of positives in the government expansion bill euphemized as the inflation reduction act."This is an example of government picking winners and losers,"&nbsp;said Roger McEowen, the Kansas Farm Bureau Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation at Washburn University School of Law. "If you're in a certain type of industry, if you're into renewables, so called green energy, you are being favored. If you're in the oil and gas industry, if you are a major manufacturer of the old style economic system of production in this country, you are disfavored."McEowen sees the economics behind the legislation as detached from reality."This whole bill is based on&nbsp;Modern Monetary Theory, which, in essence, is just simply warmed over Keynesianism from 90 years ago," McEowen said. "It didn't prove true then. It won't prove true now. What that theory means is, we can spend, the government can spend as much money as it wants and has no impact on inflation. That's again, trying to redefine the laws of economics. It doesn't work."He goes further to say that renewable energy is parasitic in nature, feeding the urban needs at the cost of rural America."This is cost shifting problems from the urban areas to you," McEowen said. "They don't have space to put up wind farms in urban areas. They find space out here. They use your land. They scar the aesthetics of the countryside and then they ship that electricity back to them."The non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation also says that average tax rates will increase for nearly every income category in 2023.According to McEowen's&nbsp;<a href="https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/agriculturallaw/2022/09/declaring-inflation-reduced-and-being-forgiving-recent-developments-in-tax-and-law.html">blog post</a>, the JCT says that taxes will rise by $16.7 billion in 2023 on those earning less than $200,000 annually and those making between $200,000 and $500,000 will pay $14.1 billion more. The JCT also concluded that 61 percent of taxpayers making between $40,000 and $50,000 will see a tax increase, and that 91 percent of taxpayers making between $100,000 and $200,000 will see higher taxes.&nbsp;

Washburn professor critical of Biden's Inflation Reduction Act 

The U.S. Grains Council recently organized a trip to the U.S. for Japanese regulators involved in that country’s food, feed, and environmental approvals of biotech corn. 

While in the U.S., the group met with USGC staff, U.S. government regulators, biotech seed companies, and industry organizations. 

They also met with U.S. corn producers and companies involved in the production, distribution, and exports of U.S. corn to Japan. 

The meetings helped educate the Japanese regulators about biotech corn events in the pipeline for entry into Japan’s regulatory system in the future. They also learned how regulatory approvals and regulations need to be able to work with the U.S. corn production, distribution, and export systems. 

“The Council has been organizing trips for the biotech team even year since 2007,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC Director in Japan. “The knowledge and confidence they’ve gained have helped regulators to consistently make and maintain science-based regulatory decisions.”

The U.S. Grains Council recently organized a trip to the U.S. for Japanese regulators involved in that country’s food, feed, and environmental approvals of biotech corn. While in the U.S., the group met with USGC staff, U.S. government regulators, biotech seed companies, and industry organizations. They also met with U.S. corn producers and companies involved in the production, distribution, and exports of U.S. corn to Japan. The meetings helped educate the Japanese regulators about biotech corn events in the pipeline for entry into Japan’s regulatory system in the future. They also learned how regulatory approvals and regulations need to be able to work with the U.S. corn production, distribution, and export systems. “The Council has been organizing trips for the biotech team even year since 2007,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC Director in Japan. “The knowledge and confidence they’ve gained have helped regulators to consistently make and maintain science-based regulatory decisions.”

USGC talks biotech corn with Japanese regulators

Brazilian farmers will start planting corn, soybeans, and many other crops in September and October. 

CONAB,&nbsp; the country’s largest ag forecaster, says if the weather cooperates, the 2022-2023 Brazilian harvest could be the largest ever. 

During the upcoming season, CONAB says Brazil’s farmers will produce more than 300 million tons of soybeans, corn, cotton, rice, wheat, and soybeans. 

That’s 14 percent higher than in 2021, during which Brazil’s farmers brought in an estimated 271.4 million tons of grain, an all-time high. The growth of Brazil’s crops is attributed to two factors, including a 2.5 percent rise in planted area and 11 percent higher yields versus 2022. 

While production costs will be higher in the upcoming season, Brazilian farmers will benefit from high commodity prices, robust global demand, and a favorable exchange rate. Soybeans make up almost half of the total grains produced in Brazil and are projected to reach 5.5 million bushels.

Brazilian farmers will start planting corn, soybeans, and many other crops in September and October. CONAB,&nbsp; the country’s largest ag forecaster, says if the weather cooperates, the 2022-2023 Brazilian harvest could be the largest ever. During the upcoming season, CONAB says Brazil’s farmers will produce more than 300 million tons of soybeans, corn, cotton, rice, wheat, and soybeans. That’s 14 percent higher than in 2021, during which Brazil’s farmers brought in an estimated 271.4 million tons of grain, an all-time high. The growth of Brazil’s crops is attributed to two factors, including a 2.5 percent rise in planted area and 11 percent higher yields versus 2022. While production costs will be higher in the upcoming season, Brazilian farmers will benefit from high commodity prices, robust global demand, and a favorable exchange rate. Soybeans make up almost half of the total grains produced in Brazil and are projected to reach 5.5 million bushels.

Brazil soybean acres to top 100 million

A new generation will learn about Norman Borlaug, the “Father of the Green Revolution,” thanks to the newest book from Feeding Minds Press. 

“Hero for the Hungry” is the story of Borlaug, who dedicated his life’s work to eradicating world hunger. 

“We are excited to introduce today’s young people to Norman Borlaug,” says Daniel Meloy, executive director of the American Farm Bureau Foundation, which runs the publishing venture. 

“With ‘Hero for the Hungry,’ we hope his story of science and true American grit inspires young readers to explore how they too can solve hunger issues.” 

The story follows Borlaug from his humble beginnings on a small farm in Iowa to groundbreaking innovation that helped feed millions in a time of famine by improving the productivity of wheat, earning him a Nobel Prize. 

“Hero for the Hungry” can be used in a variety of classrooms, including biology, science, agriculture, or history.

A new generation will learn about Norman Borlaug, the “Father of the Green Revolution,” thanks to the newest book from Feeding Minds Press. “Hero for the Hungry” is the story of Borlaug, who dedicated his life’s work to eradicating world hunger. “We are excited to introduce today’s young people to Norman Borlaug,” says Daniel Meloy, executive director of the American Farm Bureau Foundation, which runs the publishing venture. “With ‘Hero for the Hungry,’ we hope his story of science and true American grit inspires young readers to explore how they too can solve hunger issues.” The story follows Borlaug from his humble beginnings on a small farm in Iowa to groundbreaking innovation that helped feed millions in a time of famine by improving the productivity of wheat, earning him a Nobel Prize. “Hero for the Hungry” can be used in a variety of classrooms, including biology, science, agriculture, or history.

Book teaches new generation about the “Father of the Green Revolution”

The Department of Agriculture is improving two of its most comprehensive risk management safety net programs. 

USDA announced the improvements Wednesday for the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, and Micro Farm, making them more accessible to farmers. 

The improvements include doubling the maximum insurable revenue under Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, now $17 million, more than tripling the size of farm operations eligible for Micro Farm, now $350,000 and reducing paperwork requirements. 

The improvements are in direct response to feedback from stakeholders as USDA's Risk Management Agency recognizes the role these insurance options play for many producers, including specialty crop, organic and direct market producers. 

The Whole-Farm Revenue Protection program protects all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy. The Micro Farm program provides a risk management safety net for all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy, but on a smaller scale. The updates to both programs take effect in crop year 2023.&nbsp;

The Department of Agriculture is improving two of its most comprehensive risk management safety net programs. USDA announced the improvements Wednesday for the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, and Micro Farm, making them more accessible to farmers. The improvements include doubling the maximum insurable revenue under Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, now $17 million, more than tripling the size of farm operations eligible for Micro Farm, now $350,000 and reducing paperwork requirements. The improvements are in direct response to feedback from stakeholders as USDA's Risk Management Agency recognizes the role these insurance options play for many producers, including specialty crop, organic and direct market producers. The Whole-Farm Revenue Protection program protects all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy. The Micro Farm program provides a risk management safety net for all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy, but on a smaller scale. The updates to both programs take effect in crop year 2023.&nbsp;