Top farm and biofuel groups reacted to the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to reverse 31 controversial small refinery exemptions granted in August 2019. 

They’re disappointed that the agency is allowing the refineries with previously-granted SREs to not have to take additional steps to meet obligations under the RFS. 

Groups like Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, and others say the denial is an important step in reversing past refinery exemption abuses. 

“However, the decision fails to remedy the economic harms that the improperly granted 2018 SREs have already caused,” the groups say in their statement. 

“The agency’s readiness to excuse individual refineries from their obligations to comply with the 2018 blending requirements comes at the expense of our biofuel producers, farmers, and American consumers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The groups say that low-carbon biofuels are the single best tool to deliver immediate relief at the pump, strengthen U.S. energy security, and protect the climate.

Top farm and biofuel groups reacted to the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to reverse 31 controversial small refinery exemptions granted in August 2019. They’re disappointed that the agency is allowing the refineries with previously-granted SREs to not have to take additional steps to meet obligations under the RFS. Groups like Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, and others say the denial is an important step in reversing past refinery exemption abuses. “However, the decision fails to remedy the economic harms that the improperly granted 2018 SREs have already caused,” the groups say in their statement. “The agency’s readiness to excuse individual refineries from their obligations to comply with the 2018 blending requirements comes at the expense of our biofuel producers, farmers, and American consumers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The groups say that low-carbon biofuels are the single best tool to deliver immediate relief at the pump, strengthen U.S. energy security, and protect the climate.

Biofuel, ag groups respond to EPA refinery exemption decisions

The Environmental Protection Agency denied 36 petitions from oil refiners seeking exemptions from the national biofuel blending laws for the compliance year 2018. 

However, the agency said last week that it will provide 31 of the refineries with another avenue to get relief. 

A 2020 court decision narrowed the criteria for exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard’s blending quotas, and the EPA says the denial follows the law and recent court decisions. 

The agency added that the alternative relief it plans to grant to 31 of the refineries will allow them to meet their 2018 compliance requirements without having to purchase blending credits. 

The EPA says that decision comes from the “extenuating circumstances,” including the fact that the plants had already been granted waivers. Reuters says the agency is taking this approach because the amount of renewable fuel used in 2018 will be unchanged regardless of any action refiners take now.

The Environmental Protection Agency denied 36 petitions from oil refiners seeking exemptions from the national biofuel blending laws for the compliance year 2018. However, the agency said last week that it will provide 31 of the refineries with another avenue to get relief. A 2020 court decision narrowed the criteria for exemptions under the Renewable Fuel Standard’s blending quotas, and the EPA says the denial follows the law and recent court decisions. The agency added that the alternative relief it plans to grant to 31 of the refineries will allow them to meet their 2018 compliance requirements without having to purchase blending credits. The EPA says that decision comes from the “extenuating circumstances,” including the fact that the plants had already been granted waivers. Reuters says the agency is taking this approach because the amount of renewable fuel used in 2018 will be unchanged regardless of any action refiners take now.

EPA denies biofuel waivers, offers alternative relief

A Chinese national formerly residing in Missouri was sentenced to 29 months in prison and a $150,000 fine for conspiring to commit economic espionage. 

Xiang Haitao pled guilty to the charge in January. &nbsp;

Court documents say Xiang conspired to steal a trade secret from the Climate Corporation, a subsidiary of Monsanto, to benefit a foreign government. 

“Xiang conspired to steal an important trade secret to gain an unfair advantage for himself and the Chinese government,” says Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olson of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The victim companies invested significant time and resources to develop this intellectual property.” 

Olsen also says espionage is a serious offense that can threaten U.S. companies’ competitive advantage. After leaving Monsanto, Xiang attempted to take Monsanto’s computer algorithm called the Nutrient Optimizer on an electronic device back to China. He was arrested and returned to the U.S. in November 2019.

A Chinese national formerly residing in Missouri was sentenced to 29 months in prison and a $150,000 fine for conspiring to commit economic espionage. Xiang Haitao pled guilty to the charge in January. &nbsp;Court documents say Xiang conspired to steal a trade secret from the Climate Corporation, a subsidiary of Monsanto, to benefit a foreign government. “Xiang conspired to steal an important trade secret to gain an unfair advantage for himself and the Chinese government,” says Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olson of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The victim companies invested significant time and resources to develop this intellectual property.” Olsen also says espionage is a serious offense that can threaten U.S. companies’ competitive advantage. After leaving Monsanto, Xiang attempted to take Monsanto’s computer algorithm called the Nutrient Optimizer on an electronic device back to China. He was arrested and returned to the U.S. in November 2019.

Chinese National sentenced in agricultural espionage conspiracy

Pork producers are in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Pork Producers Council's Capitol Hill fly-in. 

This week, the organization is highlighting top public policy issues facing the industry. NPPC says the top priorities include preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing an agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports. Nearly 100 farmers from across the country are participating in person for the first time in two years. 

NPPC President Terry Wolters says, “Challenges facing our industry continue to evolve, and we hope our efforts this week help lawmakers understand why these issues are so important.” Producers urge lawmakers to support additional funding for foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness efforts, particularly around African swine fever. 

Last July, ASF was detected in the Western Hemisphere for the first time in more than 40 years. And, to address an ongoing labor shortage, producers want lawmakers to expand the H-2A visa program to year-round agricultural workers.

Pork producers are in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Pork Producers Council's Capitol Hill fly-in. This week, the organization is highlighting top public policy issues facing the industry. NPPC says the top priorities include preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing an agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports. Nearly 100 farmers from across the country are participating in person for the first time in two years. NPPC President Terry Wolters says, “Challenges facing our industry continue to evolve, and we hope our efforts this week help lawmakers understand why these issues are so important.” Producers urge lawmakers to support additional funding for foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness efforts, particularly around African swine fever. Last July, ASF was detected in the Western Hemisphere for the first time in more than 40 years. And, to address an ongoing labor shortage, producers want lawmakers to expand the H-2A visa program to year-round agricultural workers.

Pork producers press politicians on public policies

Guidelines for implementing drought-induced water restrictions on water deliveries and pumping are the most common component in the formal drought plans of irrigation organizations. 

In the 2019 Survey of Irrigation Organizations, USDA asked groundwater organizations and water delivery organizations, such as irrigation districts and ditch companies, questions about their formal drought planning. USDA’s Economic Research Service updated the data from the 2019 survey Wednesday. 

USDA found that around one-fifth of all organizations had a formal, written drought plan. Between 69 percent and 73 percent of water delivery organization plans and 80 percent of groundwater organization plans included details about drought-induced water restrictions as a component of their plans. 

Land fallowing provisions and off-year water storage strategies typically occurred in fewer than 20 percent of plans for most organizations. About one-third of large delivery organization plans included provisions for price increases and water supply augmentation during drought by purchasing additional water.

Guidelines for implementing drought-induced water restrictions on water deliveries and pumping are the most common component in the formal drought plans of irrigation organizations. In the 2019 Survey of Irrigation Organizations, USDA asked groundwater organizations and water delivery organizations, such as irrigation districts and ditch companies, questions about their formal drought planning. USDA’s Economic Research Service updated the data from the 2019 survey Wednesday. USDA found that around one-fifth of all organizations had a formal, written drought plan. Between 69 percent and 73 percent of water delivery organization plans and 80 percent of groundwater organization plans included details about drought-induced water restrictions as a component of their plans. Land fallowing provisions and off-year water storage strategies typically occurred in fewer than 20 percent of plans for most organizations. About one-third of large delivery organization plans included provisions for price increases and water supply augmentation during drought by purchasing additional water.

USDA: Irrigation organizations drought plans specify water restrictions

Country music singer and songwriter, farmer and Case IH brand ambassador Lee Brice will celebrate producers this summer throughout his ‘Label Me Proud Tour’ with his song “Farmer.” 

The song was written as part of Case IH’s Built by Farmers initiative. The campaign connects the company’s employees, dealers and their families rooted in agriculture with the farmers who use Case IH equipment and technology. 

Born and raised in South Carolina, Brice pays homage to North America’s dedicated producers and ranchers through his lyrics. The song debuted at the 2021 Farm Progress Show Concert in Decatur, Illinois. Brice says, “I wrote ‘Farmer’ to honor the families and individuals who are up before sunrise, doing the backbreaking work it takes to provide food and resources for homes all across America.” 

The cross-country Label Me Proud tour will span 23 cities, and select stops throughout the tour will feature “Farmer” in the concert setlist.

Country music singer and songwriter, farmer and Case IH brand ambassador Lee Brice will celebrate producers this summer throughout his ‘Label Me Proud Tour’ with his song “Farmer.” The song was written as part of Case IH’s Built by Farmers initiative. The campaign connects the company’s employees, dealers and their families rooted in agriculture with the farmers who use Case IH equipment and technology. Born and raised in South Carolina, Brice pays homage to North America’s dedicated producers and ranchers through his lyrics. The song debuted at the 2021 Farm Progress Show Concert in Decatur, Illinois. Brice says, “I wrote ‘Farmer’ to honor the families and individuals who are up before sunrise, doing the backbreaking work it takes to provide food and resources for homes all across America.” The cross-country Label Me Proud tour will span 23 cities, and select stops throughout the tour will feature “Farmer” in the concert setlist.

Case IH and Lee Brice honor farmers in upcoming summer tour

Reservoir inflows in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, were well-below average in March. 

The March runoff of 1.5 million acre-feet was 48 percent of average for the month. The updated 2022 upper Basin runoff forecast is 17.8 million acre-feet, 69 percent of average, approximately 2.6 million acre-feet less than the March 1 forecast. 

John Remus of the U.S. Army corps of Engineers says, "Due to the lack of plains snowpack in 2022, below-average mountain snowpack, and dry upper Basin conditions, we expect upper Missouri River Basin runoff to be below average." The runoff forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. 

System storage is currently 48.4 million acre-feet, which is 7.7 million acre-feet below the top of the carryover multiple use zone. Conservation measures, such as minimum winter releases and reduced flow support for navigation, are implemented as the amount of water in the reservoir system declines.

Reservoir inflows in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, were well-below average in March. The March runoff of 1.5 million acre-feet was 48 percent of average for the month. The updated 2022 upper Basin runoff forecast is 17.8 million acre-feet, 69 percent of average, approximately 2.6 million acre-feet less than the March 1 forecast. John Remus of the U.S. Army corps of Engineers says, "Due to the lack of plains snowpack in 2022, below-average mountain snowpack, and dry upper Basin conditions, we expect upper Missouri River Basin runoff to be below average." The runoff forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. System storage is currently 48.4 million acre-feet, which is 7.7 million acre-feet below the top of the carryover multiple use zone. Conservation measures, such as minimum winter releases and reduced flow support for navigation, are implemented as the amount of water in the reservoir system declines.

Upper Missouri River basin forecast runoff well below normal

Two Senate Ag Committee members recently urged the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for biofuels.

Senators John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, asked the EPA to adopt the Argonne National Lab's Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, or GREET model. The lawmakers say these long-overdue updates would permit consistent comparison between petroleum-based fuels, natural gas systems, electric generation, and renewable fuels.

In a joint statement, the Senators say, "The GREET Model has been among the most widely utilized sources of GHG data, underpinning research that finds corn ethanol can currently achieve 46 percent lower lifecycle carbon intensity than gasoline."

They made the request in a letter to the EPA, also signed by seven other Midwest farm-state Senators. Thune and Klobuchar previously introduced the Adopt GREET Act, legislation that would require the EPA to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel.

Two Senate Ag Committee members recently urged the Environmental Protection Agency to update its greenhouse gas modeling for biofuels.Senators John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, asked the EPA to adopt the Argonne National Lab's Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation, or GREET model. The lawmakers say these long-overdue updates would permit consistent comparison between petroleum-based fuels, natural gas systems, electric generation, and renewable fuels.In a joint statement, the Senators say, "The GREET Model has been among the most widely utilized sources of GHG data, underpinning research that finds corn ethanol can currently achieve 46 percent lower lifecycle carbon intensity than gasoline."They made the request in a letter to the EPA, also signed by seven other Midwest farm-state Senators. Thune and Klobuchar previously introduced the Adopt GREET Act, legislation that would require the EPA to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel.

Thune, Klobuchar urge EPA to update biofuel emissions modeling

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack met with his counterpart in Mexico Tuesday and announced the opening of Mexico to U.S. potato exports by May 15. 

A Department of Agriculture statement says they met to continue cooperation on shared priorities, including open trade, science-based policy-making, and sustainable and climate-smart agricultural production. Following the meeting, Vilsack announced that the United States and Mexico have concluded all necessary plant health protocols and agreed to a final visit by Mexican officials in April that finalizes expanded access to the entire Mexican market for all U.S. table stock and chipping potatoes. 

The leaders also discussed enhancing plant and animal health cooperation to meet emerging threats and to promote food security. Two-way trade in food and agricultural products between the United States and Mexico reached a record $63 billion in 2021, and the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement has further enhanced the strong relationship between the North American neighbors.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack met with his counterpart in Mexico Tuesday and announced the opening of Mexico to U.S. potato exports by May 15. A Department of Agriculture statement says they met to continue cooperation on shared priorities, including open trade, science-based policy-making, and sustainable and climate-smart agricultural production. Following the meeting, Vilsack announced that the United States and Mexico have concluded all necessary plant health protocols and agreed to a final visit by Mexican officials in April that finalizes expanded access to the entire Mexican market for all U.S. table stock and chipping potatoes. The leaders also discussed enhancing plant and animal health cooperation to meet emerging threats and to promote food security. Two-way trade in food and agricultural products between the United States and Mexico reached a record $63 billion in 2021, and the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement has further enhanced the strong relationship between the North American neighbors.

U.S., Mexican agriculture secretaries meet to address shared priorities

A pair of U.S. House lawmakers recently introduced legislation to help address the current truck driver shortage in the United States. 

In 2021, American trucking companies experienced a record deficit of approximately 80,000 drivers due to hiring and retention challenges. 

The bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would create a two-year refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for truck drivers holding a valid Class A commercial driver’s license who drive at least 1,900 hours in the year. 

The legislation would also create a refundable tax credit of up to $10,000 for new truck drivers or individuals enrolled in a registered trucking apprenticeship. Virginia Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Wisconsin Republican Mike Gallagher introduced the legislation Friday. 

Spanberger says the legislation would "encourage more young people to hop in the driver's seat, reduce headaches for trucking businesses, and make sure experienced drivers are rewarded for their hard work."

A pair of U.S. House lawmakers recently introduced legislation to help address the current truck driver shortage in the United States. In 2021, American trucking companies experienced a record deficit of approximately 80,000 drivers due to hiring and retention challenges. The bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would create a two-year refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for truck drivers holding a valid Class A commercial driver’s license who drive at least 1,900 hours in the year. The legislation would also create a refundable tax credit of up to $10,000 for new truck drivers or individuals enrolled in a registered trucking apprenticeship. Virginia Democrat Abigail Spanberger and Wisconsin Republican Mike Gallagher introduced the legislation Friday. Spanberger says the legislation would "encourage more young people to hop in the driver's seat, reduce headaches for trucking businesses, and make sure experienced drivers are rewarded for their hard work."

House lawmakers introduce bill to establish tax credit for truck drivers

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is celebrating a major milestone – 50 years of serving the public as a federal agency. 

USDA created APHIS on April 2, 1972, to consolidate animal health, plant health, and inspection duties under one roof. 

The new agency focused on protecting American agriculture and natural resources, along with ensuring the humane care of certain animals. 

While both APHIS and the world have changed a lot over the past 50 years, the agency’s key mission remains the same today. APHIS Administrator Kevin Shea says, “The keys to APHIS’ long-term success are our dedicated, skilled employees and the strong partnerships we develop with our many stakeholders.” 

Some of APHIS’ key accomplishments over the past 50 years include eradicating plant pests like European grapevine moth and plum pox from the country, while reducing the impact of other plant diseases, including boll weevil and Mediterranean and Mexican fruit flies.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is celebrating a major milestone – 50 years of serving the public as a federal agency. USDA created APHIS on April 2, 1972, to consolidate animal health, plant health, and inspection duties under one roof. The new agency focused on protecting American agriculture and natural resources, along with ensuring the humane care of certain animals. While both APHIS and the world have changed a lot over the past 50 years, the agency’s key mission remains the same today. APHIS Administrator Kevin Shea says, “The keys to APHIS’ long-term success are our dedicated, skilled employees and the strong partnerships we develop with our many stakeholders.” Some of APHIS’ key accomplishments over the past 50 years include eradicating plant pests like European grapevine moth and plum pox from the country, while reducing the impact of other plant diseases, including boll weevil and Mediterranean and Mexican fruit flies.

USDA APHIS celebrates 50 years

Fuel prices declined again last week as COVID cases surged in China, and President Biden announced that the U.S. would release 180 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. 

The nation’s average gas price fell 5.4 cents to $4.17 per gallon, according to GasBuddy, while diesel prices fell 3.7 cents to $5.08 per gallon. 

Still, the national average gas price is up 25.5 cents from a month ago and $1.31 per gallon higher than a year ago. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “So long as oil prices remain under $100 per barrel and there’s no escalations in Russia’s war on Ukraine, we may be poised to see gas prices decline again this week.” 

With President Biden’s announcement that the nation would release 180 million barrels of crude oil last week, the price of oil fell under $100 in the second half of the week. In addition, a jump in Covid cases in China sparked renewed concerns about demand destruction.

Fuel prices declined again last week as COVID cases surged in China, and President Biden announced that the U.S. would release 180 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The nation’s average gas price fell 5.4 cents to $4.17 per gallon, according to GasBuddy, while diesel prices fell 3.7 cents to $5.08 per gallon. Still, the national average gas price is up 25.5 cents from a month ago and $1.31 per gallon higher than a year ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “So long as oil prices remain under $100 per barrel and there’s no escalations in Russia’s war on Ukraine, we may be poised to see gas prices decline again this week.” With President Biden’s announcement that the nation would release 180 million barrels of crude oil last week, the price of oil fell under $100 in the second half of the week. In addition, a jump in Covid cases in China sparked renewed concerns about demand destruction.

Weekly fuel prices decline again

Biden releasing petroleum from reserve, ethanol not happy

Senate passes Ocean Shipping Reform Bill

Recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza are adding strain to the egg supply chains across the country, which still haven’t fully recovered from COVID-19. 

While egg production stabilized in recent months, it’s still well below pre-COVID levels. 

CoBank says that means egg availability could be limited leading into Easter. 

“U.S. egg producers have been hard-pressed to align supplies with market demand over the last couple of years,” says Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “The layer flock typically expands ahead of the surge in demand for Easter and contracts during the summer months.” 

However, recent HPAI losses have combined with high feed cost and other challenges to severely flock sizes. CoBank says at least 11 million layers have been lost in recent weeks. 

The USDA estimates about five days of U.S. egg inventory is currently on hand, which is tight but not alarmingly tight supplies. Egg prices will likely rise around Easter.

Recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza are adding strain to the egg supply chains across the country, which still haven’t fully recovered from COVID-19. While egg production stabilized in recent months, it’s still well below pre-COVID levels. CoBank says that means egg availability could be limited leading into Easter. “U.S. egg producers have been hard-pressed to align supplies with market demand over the last couple of years,” says Brian Earnest, lead animal protein economist with CoBank. “The layer flock typically expands ahead of the surge in demand for Easter and contracts during the summer months.” However, recent HPAI losses have combined with high feed cost and other challenges to severely flock sizes. CoBank says at least 11 million layers have been lost in recent weeks. The USDA estimates about five days of U.S. egg inventory is currently on hand, which is tight but not alarmingly tight supplies. Egg prices will likely rise around Easter.

CoBank: Easter egg supplies likely short

Prospective Planting Report shows less corn, more soybeans

Reuters says the White House is considering the possibility of removing restrictions on summer sales of higher ethanol blends as a way to help lower the cost of fuel for American drivers. 

Three sources close to the discussion told Reuters that President Biden is looking at ways to bring down the soaring cost of gasoline, which recently hit record highs. 

Adding more ethanol to gasoline blends could potentially bring down prices at the nation’s pumps because ethanol is currently cheaper than regular gasoline blends. 

The Environmental Protection Agency says it won’t comment on the possibility of the move but did say it was considering a range of options. 

A bipartisan group of farm-state lawmakers recently pushed the White House to lift the summertime ban. Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Dick Durbin from Illinois, two of the biggest corn-producing states, recently sent a letter to Biden asking him to allow the summertime sale of E15.

Reuters says the White House is considering the possibility of removing restrictions on summer sales of higher ethanol blends as a way to help lower the cost of fuel for American drivers. Three sources close to the discussion told Reuters that President Biden is looking at ways to bring down the soaring cost of gasoline, which recently hit record highs. Adding more ethanol to gasoline blends could potentially bring down prices at the nation’s pumps because ethanol is currently cheaper than regular gasoline blends. The Environmental Protection Agency says it won’t comment on the possibility of the move but did say it was considering a range of options. A bipartisan group of farm-state lawmakers recently pushed the White House to lift the summertime ban. Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Dick Durbin from Illinois, two of the biggest corn-producing states, recently sent a letter to Biden asking him to allow the summertime sale of E15.

U.S. considering more ethanol in gasoline

New product may help mitigate high cost of fertilizer

Farm state lawmakers Wednesday introduced the China Trade Cheating Restitution Act. 

Senate Democrat Jon Tester joined Republican Bill Cassidy, Chuck Grassley and John Thune to introduce the bill they say would level the playing field for U.S. farmers. 

The bill would ensure that the agricultural sectors most affected by China’s evasion on anti-dumping duties receive an estimated $38.5 million in accrued delinquency interest on duties wrongfully withheld by Customs and Border Patrol from 2000-2014. 

For nearly two decades, Chinese producers have exported honey, fresh garlic, crawfish, and mushrooms to the U.S. at a price below the cost of production to purposefully increase their market share– a practice called "dumping." 

The United States placed anti-dumping duties on Chinese producers in 2001 to protect domestic producers and condemn China's unfair actions. The bill would require CBP to distribute an estimated $38.5 million in accrued delinquency interest on the anti-dumping duties that CBP collected and wrongfully withheld.

Farm state lawmakers Wednesday introduced the China Trade Cheating Restitution Act. Senate Democrat Jon Tester joined Republican Bill Cassidy, Chuck Grassley and John Thune to introduce the bill they say would level the playing field for U.S. farmers. The bill would ensure that the agricultural sectors most affected by China’s evasion on anti-dumping duties receive an estimated $38.5 million in accrued delinquency interest on duties wrongfully withheld by Customs and Border Patrol from 2000-2014. For nearly two decades, Chinese producers have exported honey, fresh garlic, crawfish, and mushrooms to the U.S. at a price below the cost of production to purposefully increase their market share– a practice called "dumping." The United States placed anti-dumping duties on Chinese producers in 2001 to protect domestic producers and condemn China's unfair actions. The bill would require CBP to distribute an estimated $38.5 million in accrued delinquency interest on the anti-dumping duties that CBP collected and wrongfully withheld.

Lawmakers: new legislation to hold China accountable, level playing field

The soy checkoff released its inaugural U.S. Soy Sustainability Overview which outlines key environmental achievements made by soybean farmers. 

Developed by the soy checkoff, the report details the modern practices and advanced technologies deployed by farmers in recent years to conserve land, water, energy and other natural resources. 

The report shows that Between 1980 and 2020, conservation efforts by U.S. soybean farmers have improved land use efficiency by 48 percent per bushel, irrigation water use efficiency by 60 percent per bushel, and energy use efficiency by 46 percent per bushel. 

Growers also improvised greenhouse gas emissions efficiency by 43 percent per bushel, soil conservation by 34 percent per acre and soy production by 130 percent, using roughly the same amount of land. 

USB CEO Polly Ruhland says, “Our soybean farmers are committed to sharing the progress we have made and how we’re looking ahead to contribute in solving some of society’s biggest challenges, such as food security and sustainable energy.”

The soy checkoff released its inaugural U.S. Soy Sustainability Overview which outlines key environmental achievements made by soybean farmers. Developed by the soy checkoff, the report details the modern practices and advanced technologies deployed by farmers in recent years to conserve land, water, energy and other natural resources. The report shows that Between 1980 and 2020, conservation efforts by U.S. soybean farmers have improved land use efficiency by 48 percent per bushel, irrigation water use efficiency by 60 percent per bushel, and energy use efficiency by 46 percent per bushel. Growers also improvised greenhouse gas emissions efficiency by 43 percent per bushel, soil conservation by 34 percent per acre and soy production by 130 percent, using roughly the same amount of land. USB CEO Polly Ruhland says, “Our soybean farmers are committed to sharing the progress we have made and how we’re looking ahead to contribute in solving some of society’s biggest challenges, such as food security and sustainable energy.”

Soy Checkoff releases 2021 Sustainability Overview Report

As of March 1, there were 72.2 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, down two percent from March 2021 and down three percent from December 2021, according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. 

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the report Wednesday. 

The report found that of the 72.2 million hogs and pigs, 66.1 million were market hogs, while 6.1 million were kept for breeding. 

Between December 2021 and February 2022, 31.7 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, down one percent from the same period one year earlier. For the quarter, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 10.95 pigs per litter. 

U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.99 million sows farrow between March and May 2022, and 3.03 million sows farrow between June and August 2022. Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states at 23.0 million head, and Minnesota had the second-largest inventory at 8.60 million head.

As of March 1, there were 72.2 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, down two percent from March 2021 and down three percent from December 2021, according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the report Wednesday. The report found that of the 72.2 million hogs and pigs, 66.1 million were market hogs, while 6.1 million were kept for breeding. Between December 2021 and February 2022, 31.7 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, down one percent from the same period one year earlier. For the quarter, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 10.95 pigs per litter. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.99 million sows farrow between March and May 2022, and 3.03 million sows farrow between June and August 2022. Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states at 23.0 million head, and Minnesota had the second-largest inventory at 8.60 million head.

United States hog inventory down 2%

Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley this week introduced an updated version of the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act. 

First introduced in November, Senators Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, Jon Tester, and Montana Democrat, and Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat, joined Grassley to introduce the update. 

The updated legislation allows for more regions, five to seven, encompassing the entire continental U.S. and then establishes minimum levels of fed cattle purchases made through approved pricing mechanisms. 

The update retains the cash trade mandates included in the previous version of the bill. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “USCA stands with county, state, and national producer associations across the U.S. in supporting mandatory cash trade minimums.” 

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the legislation "would shed light on the market and bring about greater fairness.” The updated bill also Increases penalties for violations by packers, and requires that livestock mandatory reporting data be made consistently available.

Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley this week introduced an updated version of the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act. First introduced in November, Senators Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, Jon Tester, and Montana Democrat, and Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat, joined Grassley to introduce the update. The updated legislation allows for more regions, five to seven, encompassing the entire continental U.S. and then establishes minimum levels of fed cattle purchases made through approved pricing mechanisms. The update retains the cash trade mandates included in the previous version of the bill. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Brooke Miller says, “USCA stands with county, state, and national producer associations across the U.S. in supporting mandatory cash trade minimums.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says the legislation "would shed light on the market and bring about greater fairness.” The updated bill also Increases penalties for violations by packers, and requires that livestock mandatory reporting data be made consistently available.

Grassley, colleagues unveil updated Cattle Market Reform Bill

An updated guide offers tips and tools for effective engagement for online education, including hybrid settings for farm and ranch women. 

American Farmland Trust and Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education announced "Reaching Women in Agriculture: A Guide to Virtual Engagement," Tuesday. 

The guide was originally developed through a partnership with AFT and the University of Vermont Extension and has recently been updated, enhanced and published by SARE earlier in 2022. 

The goal is to create a safe space for women to learn from each other and gain confidence, rather than excluding men.&nbsp;&nbsp;The guidance in Reaching Women is born out of AFT’s Women for the Land initiative and the Learning Circle model. 

Reaching Women incorporates the characteristics of high-quality programs for women in agriculture and the emerging best practices for adapting farmer education and networking events to virtual platforms. Find and print a free copy of the guide online at sare.org.

An updated guide offers tips and tools for effective engagement for online education, including hybrid settings for farm and ranch women. American Farmland Trust and Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education announced "Reaching Women in Agriculture: A Guide to Virtual Engagement," Tuesday. The guide was originally developed through a partnership with AFT and the University of Vermont Extension and has recently been updated, enhanced and published by SARE earlier in 2022. The goal is to create a safe space for women to learn from each other and gain confidence, rather than excluding men.&nbsp;&nbsp;The guidance in Reaching Women is born out of AFT’s Women for the Land initiative and the Learning Circle model. Reaching Women incorporates the characteristics of high-quality programs for women in agriculture and the emerging best practices for adapting farmer education and networking events to virtual platforms. Find and print a free copy of the guide online at sare.org.

Ag groups release Guide on Virtual Engagement for Women

High prices for U.S. corn, soybeans and wheat are not expected to be a short-term shock, according to a new RaboResearch report, "The Grain Drain After Ukraine." 

While the sudden shutdown of trade in the Black Sea region has sent corn and wheat prices to their highest in a decade, the ten-year outlook for all major crops has shifted up to a new price level. 

The report cites transformative geopolitical changes, continued increases in demand and limited acreage availability as the shift's drivers. 

RaboResearch expects the U.S. to increase its exports to help fill the demand gap.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the 2022/23 crop marketing year, RaboResearch estimates the average on-farm price, which takes local basis into account, to be $5.77 for corn and $10.50 for wheat when their export sales increase by 200 million bushels. 

Higher prices, however, do not spell bigger profits. Costs for farm inputs such as seed, fertilizer and land will likely also rise, squeezing farmers' margins over the next decade.

High prices for U.S. corn, soybeans and wheat are not expected to be a short-term shock, according to a new RaboResearch report, "The Grain Drain After Ukraine." While the sudden shutdown of trade in the Black Sea region has sent corn and wheat prices to their highest in a decade, the ten-year outlook for all major crops has shifted up to a new price level. The report cites transformative geopolitical changes, continued increases in demand and limited acreage availability as the shift's drivers. RaboResearch expects the U.S. to increase its exports to help fill the demand gap.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the 2022/23 crop marketing year, RaboResearch estimates the average on-farm price, which takes local basis into account, to be $5.77 for corn and $10.50 for wheat when their export sales increase by 200 million bushels. Higher prices, however, do not spell bigger profits. Costs for farm inputs such as seed, fertilizer and land will likely also rise, squeezing farmers' margins over the next decade.

Rabo AgriFinance: high prices don’t mean big profits

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case brought by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation against California’s Proposition 12. 

The law bans the sale of pork from hogs born to sows that weren’t raised according to the state’s “arbitrary” production standards. 

NPPC President Terry Wolters says, “We are extremely pleased that the Supreme Court will consider the constitutionality of Proposition 12.” 

NPPC has waged a legal battle against the ballot initiative since it was approved in November 2018, arguing at the U.S. district and appellate court levels that Prop. 12 violates the Constitution's Commerce Clause, which grants Congress the power to regulate trade among the states and limits the ability of states to regulate commerce outside their borders. 

The high court is taking up the case on appeal from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, which in July upheld a lower court ruling against the NPPC-AFBF lawsuit.

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case brought by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation against California’s Proposition 12. The law bans the sale of pork from hogs born to sows that weren’t raised according to the state’s “arbitrary” production standards. NPPC President Terry Wolters says, “We are extremely pleased that the Supreme Court will consider the constitutionality of Proposition 12.” NPPC has waged a legal battle against the ballot initiative since it was approved in November 2018, arguing at the U.S. district and appellate court levels that Prop. 12 violates the Constitution's Commerce Clause, which grants Congress the power to regulate trade among the states and limits the ability of states to regulate commerce outside their borders. The high court is taking up the case on appeal from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, which in July upheld a lower court ruling against the NPPC-AFBF lawsuit.