More than 147,000 American farms produced and sold food locally through direct marketing practices, resulting in $9 billion in revenue during 2020. 

The Local Food Marketing Practices data released by the National Agricultural Statistics Service covers both fresh and value-added foods, such as meat and cheese. More than 40,000 farms sold food directly to institutions and intermediaries and brought in the most revenue at $4.1 billion. Farms with direct-to-consumer sales like on-farm stores and farmers’ markets earned $2.9 billion in revenue. Direct-to-retail sales earned $1.9 billion for more than 24,000 farms nationwide. 

California led the states in total direct food sales at $1.4 billion, followed by Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan, and Maine in the top five. Texas led the U.S. in the number of farms selling directly to consumers with almost 8,000. California was the top state in direct-to-consumer sales’ earnings at $284 million. 

Most direct-to-consumer sales took place at outlets like on-farm stores.

More than 147,000 American farms produced and sold food locally through direct marketing practices, resulting in $9 billion in revenue during 2020. The Local Food Marketing Practices data released by the National Agricultural Statistics Service covers both fresh and value-added foods, such as meat and cheese. More than 40,000 farms sold food directly to institutions and intermediaries and brought in the most revenue at $4.1 billion. Farms with direct-to-consumer sales like on-farm stores and farmers’ markets earned $2.9 billion in revenue. Direct-to-retail sales earned $1.9 billion for more than 24,000 farms nationwide. California led the states in total direct food sales at $1.4 billion, followed by Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan, and Maine in the top five. Texas led the U.S. in the number of farms selling directly to consumers with almost 8,000. California was the top state in direct-to-consumer sales’ earnings at $284 million. Most direct-to-consumer sales took place at outlets like on-farm stores.

USDA Releases Data on Local Food Marketing Practices

The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to send the long-awaited 2020-2022 biofuel blending mandates to the White House early this week. 

Two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters the White House would then be working through a final review of the numbers. The EPA released a proposed rule in December, but it’s not known whether the mandates sent this week will be identical to December’s proposal. In that rule, the EPA would retroactively set total renewable fuel volumes at 17.13 billion gallons for 2020. 

That was down from a previously finalized rule for the year of 20.09 billion gallons, set before COVID-19. It also set volumes at 18.52 billion gallons for 2021 and 20.77 billion for 2022. Both the 2020 and 2021 figures are lower than in 2019 when the EPA required refiners to blend 19.92 billion gallons of biofuels, but the 2022 proposal is higher. 

Both the oil and biofuel industries eagerly await the final numbers.

The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to send the long-awaited 2020-2022 biofuel blending mandates to the White House early this week. Two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters the White House would then be working through a final review of the numbers. The EPA released a proposed rule in December, but it’s not known whether the mandates sent this week will be identical to December’s proposal. In that rule, the EPA would retroactively set total renewable fuel volumes at 17.13 billion gallons for 2020. That was down from a previously finalized rule for the year of 20.09 billion gallons, set before COVID-19. It also set volumes at 18.52 billion gallons for 2021 and 20.77 billion for 2022. Both the 2020 and 2021 figures are lower than in 2019 when the EPA required refiners to blend 19.92 billion gallons of biofuels, but the 2022 proposal is higher. Both the oil and biofuel industries eagerly await the final numbers.

EPA Sending Biofuel Blending Mandates to White House This Week

The Biden administration is calling on Congress for $33 billion in additional support for the people of Ukraine, who are still struggling under the Russian attack. 

Included in that proposal is $500 million in domestic food production assistance. The funds will support the increased production of U.S. food crops that are experiencing a global shortage due to the war in Ukraine, including wheat and soybeans.

 In a release from the White House, the administration says, “Through higher loan rates and crop insurance incentives, the request provides greater access to credit and lowers the risk for farmers growing these food commodities while lowering the cost for consumers.” Additional funding will also allow the use of the Defense Production Act to expand domestic production of critical minerals and materials disrupted by the war in Ukraine. The administration says these proposals help address economic disruptions and reduce price pressures at home and around the world.

The Biden administration is calling on Congress for $33 billion in additional support for the people of Ukraine, who are still struggling under the Russian attack. Included in that proposal is $500 million in domestic food production assistance. The funds will support the increased production of U.S. food crops that are experiencing a global shortage due to the war in Ukraine, including wheat and soybeans. In a release from the White House, the administration says, “Through higher loan rates and crop insurance incentives, the request provides greater access to credit and lowers the risk for farmers growing these food commodities while lowering the cost for consumers.” Additional funding will also allow the use of the Defense Production Act to expand domestic production of critical minerals and materials disrupted by the war in Ukraine. The administration says these proposals help address economic disruptions and reduce price pressures at home and around the world.

Biden administration proposes to spend $500 million on food production

The deadline for partners to apply for the first round of funding through the new Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities is Friday, May 6. 

USDA is committed to supporting a diverse set of farmers, ranchers, and forest owners through climate solutions that increase resilience, expand market opportunities, and strengthen rural America. This round of funding includes large-scale proposals from $5 million to $100 million that emphasize the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production. The proposals should also include direct, meaningful benefits to a representative cross-section of production agriculture, including small and/or historically underserved producers. 

“Don’t miss out on this opportunity,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. “We want a broad array of agriculture and forestry producers and landowners to see themselves in this effort.” A climate-smart commodity is defined as a commodity produced using agricultural practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or sequester carbon. More information is available at usda.gov.

The deadline for partners to apply for the first round of funding through the new Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities is Friday, May 6. USDA is committed to supporting a diverse set of farmers, ranchers, and forest owners through climate solutions that increase resilience, expand market opportunities, and strengthen rural America. This round of funding includes large-scale proposals from $5 million to $100 million that emphasize the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production. The proposals should also include direct, meaningful benefits to a representative cross-section of production agriculture, including small and/or historically underserved producers. “Don’t miss out on this opportunity,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. “We want a broad array of agriculture and forestry producers and landowners to see themselves in this effort.” A climate-smart commodity is defined as a commodity produced using agricultural practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or sequester carbon. More information is available at usda.gov.

Climate-smart commodities funding deadline approaching

U.S. consumer demand for meat at the retail level remains exceptionally strong despite rising prices caused by increased production costs and supply chain challenges. 

A new CoBank report says that may change soon. Once the full effect of increased costs of producer price inflation shows up in the retail meat case, demand will get tested. “Retail meat prices will remain high throughout 2022,” says Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “The sharply higher costs for feed, energy, and labor haven’t fully impacted wholesale and retail meat prices, but that will soon change.” 

He also says as consumers notice their dollar isn’t going as far as it once did, they may trade down at the meat case. Chicken could be the primary beneficiary. The combined cutout values of beef, pork, and chicken have climbed 22 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of this year, so consumers will see higher meat prices.

U.S. consumer demand for meat at the retail level remains exceptionally strong despite rising prices caused by increased production costs and supply chain challenges. A new CoBank report says that may change soon. Once the full effect of increased costs of producer price inflation shows up in the retail meat case, demand will get tested. “Retail meat prices will remain high throughout 2022,” says Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “The sharply higher costs for feed, energy, and labor haven’t fully impacted wholesale and retail meat prices, but that will soon change.” He also says as consumers notice their dollar isn’t going as far as it once did, they may trade down at the meat case. Chicken could be the primary beneficiary. The combined cutout values of beef, pork, and chicken have climbed 22 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of this year, so consumers will see higher meat prices.

CoBank: rising meat prices will test consumer demand

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday approved Commodity Credit Corporation funding to assist USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service response to highly pathogenic avian influenza.

 The virus has been confirmed in 29 states, affecting more than 33 million domestic birds. APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials on joint incident responses in each affected state. To help ensure APHIS can continue to provide critical rapid response activities, Vilsack approved the transfer of nearly $263 million from the CCC to APHIS to directly support the response efforts. 

The funding allows APHIS to continue its work with state and local partners to quickly identify and address cases of HPAI in the United States. The Secretary is authorized to transfer funding from available resources to address emergency outbreaks of animal and plant pests and diseases. Secretary Vilsack previously approved the use of approximately $130 million in emergency funding in mid-March.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday approved Commodity Credit Corporation funding to assist USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service response to highly pathogenic avian influenza. The virus has been confirmed in 29 states, affecting more than 33 million domestic birds. APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials on joint incident responses in each affected state. To help ensure APHIS can continue to provide critical rapid response activities, Vilsack approved the transfer of nearly $263 million from the CCC to APHIS to directly support the response efforts. The funding allows APHIS to continue its work with state and local partners to quickly identify and address cases of HPAI in the United States. The Secretary is authorized to transfer funding from available resources to address emergency outbreaks of animal and plant pests and diseases. Secretary Vilsack previously approved the use of approximately $130 million in emergency funding in mid-March.

Vilsack authorizes additional CCC funds for HPAI response

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows demand for soybean oil increased its price in 2021 and so far in 2022. 

Soybean oil is the most widely used vegetable oil, and soybean oil use has typically accounted for over 50 percent of total domestic disappearance of all vegetable oil used in the United States. Given the versatility of soybean oil and the limited supplies of substitute oils, steady growth in food and industrial demand for soybean oil caused domestic prices to rise. 

In March 2022, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service reported that average monthly soybean oil prices in Decatur, Illinois, a leading indicator market for soybean oil, had reached 76 cents per pound, more than 40 percent higher than a year earlier. Rising monthly prices have contributed to increases in the 2021/22 U.S. season-average soybean oil price, currently projected at $0.70 per pound, an increase of 23 percent from the prior marketing year.

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows demand for soybean oil increased its price in 2021 and so far in 2022. Soybean oil is the most widely used vegetable oil, and soybean oil use has typically accounted for over 50 percent of total domestic disappearance of all vegetable oil used in the United States. Given the versatility of soybean oil and the limited supplies of substitute oils, steady growth in food and industrial demand for soybean oil caused domestic prices to rise. In March 2022, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service reported that average monthly soybean oil prices in Decatur, Illinois, a leading indicator market for soybean oil, had reached 76 cents per pound, more than 40 percent higher than a year earlier. Rising monthly prices have contributed to increases in the 2021/22 U.S. season-average soybean oil price, currently projected at $0.70 per pound, an increase of 23 percent from the prior marketing year.

Strong soybean oil demand elevating price

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $670 million in food assistance in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

The Department of Agriculture and U.S. Agency for International Development will draw down the full balance of the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust. 

USAID will use the $282 million from the trust to acquire U.S. food commodities for Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Yemen. 

USDA will provide $388 million in additional funding through the Commodity Credit Corporation to cover transportation, shipping, handling, and other associated costs. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "America's farmers, ranchers and producers are uniquely positioned through their productivity, and through the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust to help.” 

The trust is a special authority renamed for Congressman Bill Emerson in 1998, that enables USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance to respond to unanticipated food crises abroad when other resources are not available. This is the first time since 2014 the U.S. government has used the emergency funding authority.

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $670 million in food assistance in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Department of Agriculture and U.S. Agency for International Development will draw down the full balance of the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust. USAID will use the $282 million from the trust to acquire U.S. food commodities for Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Yemen. USDA will provide $388 million in additional funding through the Commodity Credit Corporation to cover transportation, shipping, handling, and other associated costs. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "America's farmers, ranchers and producers are uniquely positioned through their productivity, and through the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust to help.” The trust is a special authority renamed for Congressman Bill Emerson in 1998, that enables USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance to respond to unanticipated food crises abroad when other resources are not available. This is the first time since 2014 the U.S. government has used the emergency funding authority.

Biden Administration announces global food aid

As the beef sector focused on a congressional hearing Tuesday, one group urged the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice to investigate vertical integration in feedlots. 

R-CALF this week announced formal comments submitted to the federal government on the issue. 

The organization says that while beef packer concentration has plateaued since 2009 at the four-firm level of between 83 percent and 86 percent, it is now evident that major concentration and vertical integration efforts are underway in the feedlot sector of the live cattle industry. 

The group says the structure of the beef packing industry is now being pushed upstream into the live cattle supply chain. In its comments, the group urged the agencies to investigate to determine the degree of buyer power the concentrated beef packers exercise over those feedlots – in particular, the 77 largest feedlots. 

The agencies asked for public comments to help them improve enforcement of U.S. antitrust laws regarding both horizontal and vertical mergers.

As the beef sector focused on a congressional hearing Tuesday, one group urged the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice to investigate vertical integration in feedlots. R-CALF this week announced formal comments submitted to the federal government on the issue. The organization says that while beef packer concentration has plateaued since 2009 at the four-firm level of between 83 percent and 86 percent, it is now evident that major concentration and vertical integration efforts are underway in the feedlot sector of the live cattle industry. The group says the structure of the beef packing industry is now being pushed upstream into the live cattle supply chain. In its comments, the group urged the agencies to investigate to determine the degree of buyer power the concentrated beef packers exercise over those feedlots – in particular, the 77 largest feedlots. The agencies asked for public comments to help them improve enforcement of U.S. antitrust laws regarding both horizontal and vertical mergers.

Ranch group urges FTC, DOJ to investigate vertical integration of cattle feedlots

Senate Agriculture Committee members heard from the beef industry Tuesday regarding the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act. 

The hearing, proceeded by months of debate over the need for increased transparency in cattle marketing, highlighted the vehement opposition to government mandates by a majority of U.S. cattle producers. 

Ethan Lane, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs, says, “What is being proposed right now concentrates on what works for one region, it simply doesn’t work for the rest of the country.” 

NCBA opposes a government mandate as it could potentially result in fewer marketing opportunities and less incentive for producers to invest in genetics and innovative production techniques that lead to higher-quality beef. 

NCBA “stands committed to turning the focus to solutions with broad industry support,” such as a cattle contract library, 14-day delivery, expedited carcass weight reporting, daily formula base price reporting, and incentives for expanding regional processing capacity.

Senate Agriculture Committee members heard from the beef industry Tuesday regarding the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act. The hearing, proceeded by months of debate over the need for increased transparency in cattle marketing, highlighted the vehement opposition to government mandates by a majority of U.S. cattle producers. Ethan Lane, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs, says, “What is being proposed right now concentrates on what works for one region, it simply doesn’t work for the rest of the country.” NCBA opposes a government mandate as it could potentially result in fewer marketing opportunities and less incentive for producers to invest in genetics and innovative production techniques that lead to higher-quality beef. NCBA “stands committed to turning the focus to solutions with broad industry support,” such as a cattle contract library, 14-day delivery, expedited carcass weight reporting, daily formula base price reporting, and incentives for expanding regional processing capacity.

NCBA: Opposition to government mandate amplified through senate hearing

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with her counterpart in the United Kingdom this week as part of the second U.S.-UK trade dialogue. 

While not official trade negotiations, the dialogues focus on the future of trade between the two countries. 

Ambassador Tai and UK Secretary of State Anne-Marie Trevelyan hosted a series of roundtable discussions with a group of stakeholders from the U.S. and UK business community. 

The trade officials agreed to build resilience in supply chains, address the global trade impacts of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and promote environmental protection, among other topics. 

Drawing on the stakeholder discussions and bilateral talks, the duo directed their teams to work at pace over the next several weeks to develop an ambitious roadmap with economically meaningful outcomes in these areas. 

Other focus areas include labor and environmental standards, promoting innovation, and economic growth. Tai and Trevelyan previously held a similar trade dialogue in March.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with her counterpart in the United Kingdom this week as part of the second U.S.-UK trade dialogue. While not official trade negotiations, the dialogues focus on the future of trade between the two countries. Ambassador Tai and UK Secretary of State Anne-Marie Trevelyan hosted a series of roundtable discussions with a group of stakeholders from the U.S. and UK business community. The trade officials agreed to build resilience in supply chains, address the global trade impacts of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and promote environmental protection, among other topics. Drawing on the stakeholder discussions and bilateral talks, the duo directed their teams to work at pace over the next several weeks to develop an ambitious roadmap with economically meaningful outcomes in these areas. Other focus areas include labor and environmental standards, promoting innovation, and economic growth. Tai and Trevelyan previously held a similar trade dialogue in March.

USTR Tai holds trade dialogue with United Kingdom

Scientists with USDA’s Agriculture Research Service Monday announced that a vaccine candidate for African swine fever passed an important safety test required for regulatory approval. 

The successful safety test moves the vaccine one step closer to commercial availability. 

The new results show that USDA's vaccine candidate does not revert to its normal virulence, after being injected into swine. 

This "reversion to virulence" test is required to ensure that the vaccine's weakened form of the ASF virus does not revert to its original state. The safety studies are necessary to gain approval for use in Vietnam and eventually in other countries around the world. 

However, future commercial use will depend on approval from the department of animal health within each requesting country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further development will continue once the vaccine candidate receives regulatory approval from Vietnam. Although the virus is causing profound economic losses to the swine industry, there have not been any outbreaks in the United States.

Scientists with USDA’s Agriculture Research Service Monday announced that a vaccine candidate for African swine fever passed an important safety test required for regulatory approval. The successful safety test moves the vaccine one step closer to commercial availability. The new results show that USDA's vaccine candidate does not revert to its normal virulence, after being injected into swine. This "reversion to virulence" test is required to ensure that the vaccine's weakened form of the ASF virus does not revert to its original state. The safety studies are necessary to gain approval for use in Vietnam and eventually in other countries around the world. However, future commercial use will depend on approval from the department of animal health within each requesting country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further development will continue once the vaccine candidate receives regulatory approval from Vietnam. Although the virus is causing profound economic losses to the swine industry, there have not been any outbreaks in the United States.

African Swine Fever vaccine passes tests required for regulatory approval

The Ukraine-Russia war has reignited speculation that globalization is coming to an end, and markets should prepare to turn inward to deal with disrupted supply lines and geopolitical challenges. 

The war will undoubtedly have long-lasting implications. 

However, according to a new Quarterly report from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, an unwinding of global supply chains and world markets is unlikely to be one of them. 

Still, Russia's invasion of Ukraine agitated global grain trade and contributed to unprecedented price volatility in wheat, corn and soybeans. Grain markets could remain volatile for two or more years due to disruptions in planting, harvesting, input application and transportation. 

Prices for major fertilizers increased between eight percent and 13 percent during the first quarter of 2022, with the biggest spikes coming after Russia invaded Ukraine. 

While most U.S. ag retailers have adequate nutrient supplies this spring, the report says that may not be the case this fall and in spring 2023.

The Ukraine-Russia war has reignited speculation that globalization is coming to an end, and markets should prepare to turn inward to deal with disrupted supply lines and geopolitical challenges. The war will undoubtedly have long-lasting implications. However, according to a new Quarterly report from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, an unwinding of global supply chains and world markets is unlikely to be one of them. Still, Russia's invasion of Ukraine agitated global grain trade and contributed to unprecedented price volatility in wheat, corn and soybeans. Grain markets could remain volatile for two or more years due to disruptions in planting, harvesting, input application and transportation. Prices for major fertilizers increased between eight percent and 13 percent during the first quarter of 2022, with the biggest spikes coming after Russia invaded Ukraine. While most U.S. ag retailers have adequate nutrient supplies this spring, the report says that may not be the case this fall and in spring 2023.

CoBank: Ukraine/Russia war upending grain and energy markets

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service last week announced it approved the Clemens Food Group pork packing plant in Coldwater, Michigan, to run faster line speeds under a one-year trial program. 

The agency now has let four plants operate with faster harvesting line speeds, which could increase packing capacity and alleviate supply issues in the face of strong pork demand. 

FSIS established the line speeds program last November, after a provision in USDA’s 2019 New Swine Inspection System was struck down by a U.S. District Court in March 2021. 

Nine pork packing plants that had adopted the program, six of which were operating with faster line speeds, were allowed to apply for the program, under which they need to collect data on the effects of the faster speeds on workers and share it with USDA. 

The National Pork Producers Council says the information could be used to formulate a new regulation for allowing plants to run faster line speeds.

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service last week announced it approved the Clemens Food Group pork packing plant in Coldwater, Michigan, to run faster line speeds under a one-year trial program. The agency now has let four plants operate with faster harvesting line speeds, which could increase packing capacity and alleviate supply issues in the face of strong pork demand. FSIS established the line speeds program last November, after a provision in USDA’s 2019 New Swine Inspection System was struck down by a U.S. District Court in March 2021. Nine pork packing plants that had adopted the program, six of which were operating with faster line speeds, were allowed to apply for the program, under which they need to collect data on the effects of the faster speeds on workers and share it with USDA. The National Pork Producers Council says the information could be used to formulate a new regulation for allowing plants to run faster line speeds.

USDA lets more packing plants return to faster line speeds

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal by Kansas to revive a law, earlier struck down by lower courts, that banned secret filming at slaughterhouses and other livestock facilities.

The justices did not comment in leaving in place&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-courts-kansas-1d6b49724d11eb58ce619f33aa7ea32c">a ruling by a federal appeals court panel</a>&nbsp;that the so-called ag-gag law violated the First Amendment by stifling speech critical of animal agriculture.

A three-judge panel of the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a split decision ruled that even if deception is used to enter private property, Kansas may not discriminate based on whether the person intends to harm or help the enterprise.

The appellate ruling upheld&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e5a3a2be0e2d6db40cba10ccea52d8e4">a permanent injunction</a>&nbsp;issued by a federal judge in 2020.

The Kansas law made it a crime for anyone to take a picture or video at an animal facility without the owner’s consent or to enter the facility under false pretenses.

The Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety were among the groups that challenged the ban.

Federal appeals courts considering similar laws&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-iowa-animal-welfare-a6326dc5ea1999118c8147808edb3691">in Iowa</a>&nbsp;and Idaho had split over the issue, raising Kansas’ hope that the high court would step in.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562343189353.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal by Kansas to revive a law, earlier struck down by lower courts, that banned secret filming at slaughterhouses and other livestock facilities.The justices did not comment in leaving in place&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-courts-kansas-1d6b49724d11eb58ce619f33aa7ea32c">a ruling by a federal appeals court panel</a>&nbsp;that the so-called ag-gag law violated the First Amendment by stifling speech critical of animal agriculture.A three-judge panel of the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a split decision ruled that even if deception is used to enter private property, Kansas may not discriminate based on whether the person intends to harm or help the enterprise.The appellate ruling upheld&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e5a3a2be0e2d6db40cba10ccea52d8e4">a permanent injunction</a>&nbsp;issued by a federal judge in 2020.The Kansas law made it a crime for anyone to take a picture or video at an animal facility without the owner’s consent or to enter the facility under false pretenses.The Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety were among the groups that challenged the ban.Federal appeals courts considering similar laws&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-iowa-animal-welfare-a6326dc5ea1999118c8147808edb3691">in Iowa</a>&nbsp;and Idaho had split over the issue, raising Kansas’ hope that the high court would step in.

Court won't revive Kan. ban on secret filming at slaughterhouses

Ag groups like the National Corn Growers Association celebrated Earth Day last week by reminding its members to commit to improving the environment. 

“Leaving the world in better shape than we found it” is a part of policy upheld by U.S. corn farmers. 

The group encouraged corn farmers to review their best-management practices, consider planting a pollinator habitat, fill their gas tanks with cleaner-burning ethanol blends, and maximize their nutrient applications. 

Growth Energy says Earth Day is especially important given the administration lifted the restrictions on summertime E15 sales. “We can’t get to net-zero emissions without biofuels,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. 

“Biofuels like ethanol reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46 percent compared to gasoline. They’re an accessible, plant-based fuel source that can immediately help improve air quality alongside other clean energy solutions.” The group says a nationwide E15 standard could reduce carbon emissions by more than 17.6 million tons.

Ag groups like the National Corn Growers Association celebrated Earth Day last week by reminding its members to commit to improving the environment. “Leaving the world in better shape than we found it” is a part of policy upheld by U.S. corn farmers. The group encouraged corn farmers to review their best-management practices, consider planting a pollinator habitat, fill their gas tanks with cleaner-burning ethanol blends, and maximize their nutrient applications. Growth Energy says Earth Day is especially important given the administration lifted the restrictions on summertime E15 sales. “We can’t get to net-zero emissions without biofuels,” says Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Biofuels like ethanol reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46 percent compared to gasoline. They’re an accessible, plant-based fuel source that can immediately help improve air quality alongside other clean energy solutions.” The group says a nationwide E15 standard could reduce carbon emissions by more than 17.6 million tons.

Corn, ethanol groups celebrate Earth Day

One week after the Biden administration decided to allow for the summertime sale of E15, Nebraska’s lawmakers passed a bill that will provide incentives for retailers who sell the biofuel. 

KNSB in Nebraska says LB596 allows for a credit of five cents on each gallon of E15 retailers sell and eight cents per gallon of E25 or higher blends sold. 

The goal is to make ethanol more affordable for retailers who are helping keep fuel prices down for consumers. 

“At the retail level, E15 is a better fuel, and it costs less,” says Randy Gard, Nebraska Ethanol Board Secretary. “We are excited the bill got passed and to see what it can do for customers.” 

Gard also says Nebraska retailers have nothing standing in their way to making the transition from E10 and joining the conversion to E15. “The incentives are there, consumer demand is there, and it’s a win for everyone,” Gard adds.

One week after the Biden administration decided to allow for the summertime sale of E15, Nebraska’s lawmakers passed a bill that will provide incentives for retailers who sell the biofuel. KNSB in Nebraska says LB596 allows for a credit of five cents on each gallon of E15 retailers sell and eight cents per gallon of E25 or higher blends sold. The goal is to make ethanol more affordable for retailers who are helping keep fuel prices down for consumers. “At the retail level, E15 is a better fuel, and it costs less,” says Randy Gard, Nebraska Ethanol Board Secretary. “We are excited the bill got passed and to see what it can do for customers.” Gard also says Nebraska retailers have nothing standing in their way to making the transition from E10 and joining the conversion to E15. “The incentives are there, consumer demand is there, and it’s a win for everyone,” Gard adds.

Nebraska Legislature passes E15 sales credit

On April 27, 200 veterinarians will head to Capitol Hill to meet with senators and representatives to talk about legislation that will increase access to veterinary services in rural areas. 

They also want to talk about legislation to help in reducing the spread of diseases that pose a threat to animal and public health. 

The American Veterinary Medical Association’s annual fly-in will feature attendees from 48 states and 20 veterinary schools. 

They’ll talk to officials about passing the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The AVMA says it’s united in asking Congress for help alleviating a shortage of veterinarians by assisting with the significant obstacle of student debt. 

The group also says strengthening dog importation standards will decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from the 1.2 million dogs imported every year into the U.S. The goal is to maintain vibrant rural communities while keeping animals and people safe.

On April 27, 200 veterinarians will head to Capitol Hill to meet with senators and representatives to talk about legislation that will increase access to veterinary services in rural areas. They also want to talk about legislation to help in reducing the spread of diseases that pose a threat to animal and public health. The American Veterinary Medical Association’s annual fly-in will feature attendees from 48 states and 20 veterinary schools. They’ll talk to officials about passing the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The AVMA says it’s united in asking Congress for help alleviating a shortage of veterinarians by assisting with the significant obstacle of student debt. The group also says strengthening dog importation standards will decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from the 1.2 million dogs imported every year into the U.S. The goal is to maintain vibrant rural communities while keeping animals and people safe.

Veterinarians heading to Capitol Hill

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s cyber division is warning agricultural cooperatives across the country to be wary of possible cyberattacks. 

The division wants cooperatives to take all possible precautions to keep their operations safe. 

The FBI says ransomware attacks typically happen on ag cooperatives during the critical planting and harvest seasons. 

The attackers hope to disrupt operations, cause financial loss, and damage the food supply chain. 2021 saw several attacks on ag cooperatives during the harvest. So far, DTN says two ag cooperatives have been hit by cyberattacks this year, one in February, and the other in March. 

One company is a feed mill, and the other is a multi-state grain company providing seed, fertilizer, and logistical services. The FBI didn’t share the name of either company or any additional information. Cyberattacks have recently hit 14 of 16 critical infrastructure sectors in the U.S., including food and agriculture, the defense industry, and others.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s cyber division is warning agricultural cooperatives across the country to be wary of possible cyberattacks. The division wants cooperatives to take all possible precautions to keep their operations safe. The FBI says ransomware attacks typically happen on ag cooperatives during the critical planting and harvest seasons. The attackers hope to disrupt operations, cause financial loss, and damage the food supply chain. 2021 saw several attacks on ag cooperatives during the harvest. So far, DTN says two ag cooperatives have been hit by cyberattacks this year, one in February, and the other in March. One company is a feed mill, and the other is a multi-state grain company providing seed, fertilizer, and logistical services. The FBI didn’t share the name of either company or any additional information. Cyberattacks have recently hit 14 of 16 critical infrastructure sectors in the U.S., including food and agriculture, the defense industry, and others.

FBI warns ag cooperatives about possible cyberattacks

The International Grains Council is forecasting global corn production will drop by 13 million tons in the 2022-2023 season. 

Reuters says the council’s prediction is 1.197 billion tons because of smaller crops in Ukraine and the United States. 

The first full assessment forecasts Ukraine’s corn crop to drop from 41.9 million tons last season to 18.6 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;The IGC says the Black Sea region’s conflict makes its current forecast “especially tentative.” 

The United States, the world’s leading corn producer, will harvest 376.6 million tons, down from last year’s 383.9 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The council also forecasts a decline of one million tons in global wheat production. 

The 2022-2023 total will be 780 million tons, due in large part to a smaller crop in Ukraine, which will be 19.4 million tons compared to 33 million last year. The drop will be mostly offset by larger crops in other countries, including Russia and Canada.

The International Grains Council is forecasting global corn production will drop by 13 million tons in the 2022-2023 season. Reuters says the council’s prediction is 1.197 billion tons because of smaller crops in Ukraine and the United States. The first full assessment forecasts Ukraine’s corn crop to drop from 41.9 million tons last season to 18.6 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;The IGC says the Black Sea region’s conflict makes its current forecast “especially tentative.” The United States, the world’s leading corn producer, will harvest 376.6 million tons, down from last year’s 383.9 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The council also forecasts a decline of one million tons in global wheat production. The 2022-2023 total will be 780 million tons, due in large part to a smaller crop in Ukraine, which will be 19.4 million tons compared to 33 million last year. The drop will be mostly offset by larger crops in other countries, including Russia and Canada.

IGC prediction calls for lower global corn and wheat production

The Natural Resources Defense Council released a report that calls for changing the Federal Crop Insurance Program. 

They’re particularly interested in finding ways to incentivize practices that reduce risk and lower the cost of taxpayer-subsidized payouts. 

As a first step, the report says the crop insurance program should include good stewardship or performance-based discounts that reward farmers who use good soil health practices with a higher premium subsidy or an adjusted insurance premium rate. 

Rate adjustments could increase the adoption of regenerative practices that improve soil health and mitigate damage to crops, which would lower the cost of crop insurance over time. 

They recommend that Congress authorize long-term funding for a crop insurance savings program for soil health practices that are modeled on the Pandemic Cover Crop Program. They also want the Risk Management Agency to adopt insurance premium formulas that account for risk mitigation of soil health management practices.

The Natural Resources Defense Council released a report that calls for changing the Federal Crop Insurance Program. They’re particularly interested in finding ways to incentivize practices that reduce risk and lower the cost of taxpayer-subsidized payouts. As a first step, the report says the crop insurance program should include good stewardship or performance-based discounts that reward farmers who use good soil health practices with a higher premium subsidy or an adjusted insurance premium rate. Rate adjustments could increase the adoption of regenerative practices that improve soil health and mitigate damage to crops, which would lower the cost of crop insurance over time. They recommend that Congress authorize long-term funding for a crop insurance savings program for soil health practices that are modeled on the Pandemic Cover Crop Program. They also want the Risk Management Agency to adopt insurance premium formulas that account for risk mitigation of soil health management practices.

Environmental group wants changes to Crop Insurance Program

A group of lawmakers jointly filed an amicus brief supporting the petitioners in the pending U.S. Supreme Court case Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. 

The decision in the case will clarify what waterways are considered "waters of the United States," or WOTUS, which will determine the scope of the federal government’s authority in regulating private citizens and businesses under the Clean Water Act. 

Specifically, the brief argues that the Supreme Court should adopt a longstanding, limited-scope definition of WOTUS proposed by Justice Antonin Scalia in a 2006 case. 

Senate Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa helped lead the effort. Grassley and the lawmakers say, “we support policies that protect the environment while also ensuring that States retain their traditional role as the primary regulators of land and water resources.” 

Grassley adds, “This case presents an opportunity for the Court to finally put the genie back in the bottle.” More than 100 U.S. Representatives also signed the brief.

A group of lawmakers jointly filed an amicus brief supporting the petitioners in the pending U.S. Supreme Court case Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. The decision in the case will clarify what waterways are considered "waters of the United States," or WOTUS, which will determine the scope of the federal government’s authority in regulating private citizens and businesses under the Clean Water Act. Specifically, the brief argues that the Supreme Court should adopt a longstanding, limited-scope definition of WOTUS proposed by Justice Antonin Scalia in a 2006 case. Senate Republican Chuck Grassley of Iowa helped lead the effort. Grassley and the lawmakers say, “we support policies that protect the environment while also ensuring that States retain their traditional role as the primary regulators of land and water resources.” Grassley adds, “This case presents an opportunity for the Court to finally put the genie back in the bottle.” More than 100 U.S. Representatives also signed the brief.

Lawmakers urging Supreme Court to adopt limited WOTUS rule

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker this week signed into law a bill that incentivizes increasing blends of biodiesel. 

The bill extends the current B10 sales tax exemption until 2023 and then increases the biodiesel blend level subject to the tax exemption to B13 in 2024, B15 in 2025 and B19 in 2026 in the state. 

Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen applauded the effort, saying the legislation "will expand that demand and solidify Illinois as a leading source and user of better, cleaner biodiesel." 

Illinois is currently fourth among all states in biodiesel production and third in consumption, with 160 million gallons consumed annually. The legislation was spearheaded and guided through the legislative process by the Illinois Soybean Association with support from Clean Fuels Alliance America and several of its member companies, including REG and ADM. 

The organizations cite a recent study that found in Chicago, switching to B100 would decrease diesel particular matter-related cancer risks by up to nearly 1,600 cases.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker this week signed into law a bill that incentivizes increasing blends of biodiesel. The bill extends the current B10 sales tax exemption until 2023 and then increases the biodiesel blend level subject to the tax exemption to B13 in 2024, B15 in 2025 and B19 in 2026 in the state. Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen applauded the effort, saying the legislation "will expand that demand and solidify Illinois as a leading source and user of better, cleaner biodiesel." Illinois is currently fourth among all states in biodiesel production and third in consumption, with 160 million gallons consumed annually. The legislation was spearheaded and guided through the legislative process by the Illinois Soybean Association with support from Clean Fuels Alliance America and several of its member companies, including REG and ADM. The organizations cite a recent study that found in Chicago, switching to B100 would decrease diesel particular matter-related cancer risks by up to nearly 1,600 cases.

Illinois Governor signs biodiesel use bill into law

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the launch of the Biden administration's Rural Partners Network. 

Led by USDA, the network will help rural communities access government resources and funding to create jobs, build infrastructure and support long-term economic stability. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The Rural Partners Network will help communities get funding for investments that create long-lasting benefits for their communities, especially those that have been overlooked in the past." 

The Rural Partners Network is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between federal agencies and local leaders and residents. The network is focused on improving social and economic well-being bolstered by existing local partnerships and assets, according to USDA. 

The network will launch in selected communities in Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, as well as certain Tribes within Arizona. Community networks within these states will receive individualized support with the expertise to navigate federal programs, build relationships and identify additional resources to promote community-driven solutions.

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the launch of the Biden administration's Rural Partners Network. Led by USDA, the network will help rural communities access government resources and funding to create jobs, build infrastructure and support long-term economic stability. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The Rural Partners Network will help communities get funding for investments that create long-lasting benefits for their communities, especially those that have been overlooked in the past." The Rural Partners Network is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between federal agencies and local leaders and residents. The network is focused on improving social and economic well-being bolstered by existing local partnerships and assets, according to USDA. The network will launch in selected communities in Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, as well as certain Tribes within Arizona. Community networks within these states will receive individualized support with the expertise to navigate federal programs, build relationships and identify additional resources to promote community-driven solutions.

Biden administration launches Rural Partners Network

A pair of House lawmakers this week introduced the SHIP IT Act, seeking to address the supply chain backlog in the freight network at U.S. ports. 

Introduced by Republican Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Byron Donalds of Florida, the legislation builds on the STOP the GRINCH Act introduced last fall. 

The STOP the GRINCH Act, a Christmas-themed bill, was introduced in November 2021 to ease supply-chain and inflation pressures by streamlining or suspending certain federal regulations on ports, ships, and trucks. 

Notable items included in the SHIP IT Act would temporarily suspend the hours-of-service requirements for truckers transporting goods directly to ports, allow 18-year-olds to drive commercial trucks to U.S. ports, and identify federal lands that can be used for temporary storage of freight. 

Fischbach says, “Congress should seize any opportunity to ease supply-chain tensions,” adding, “The SHIP IT Act would do this by targeting specific needs in ports, shipping, and trucking.”

A pair of House lawmakers this week introduced the SHIP IT Act, seeking to address the supply chain backlog in the freight network at U.S. ports. Introduced by Republican Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Byron Donalds of Florida, the legislation builds on the STOP the GRINCH Act introduced last fall. The STOP the GRINCH Act, a Christmas-themed bill, was introduced in November 2021 to ease supply-chain and inflation pressures by streamlining or suspending certain federal regulations on ports, ships, and trucks. Notable items included in the SHIP IT Act would temporarily suspend the hours-of-service requirements for truckers transporting goods directly to ports, allow 18-year-olds to drive commercial trucks to U.S. ports, and identify federal lands that can be used for temporary storage of freight. Fischbach says, “Congress should seize any opportunity to ease supply-chain tensions,” adding, “The SHIP IT Act would do this by targeting specific needs in ports, shipping, and trucking.”