The Biden-Harris Administration Monday submitted to Congress the President’s budget for fiscal year 2023. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the budget "provides USDA with the tools needed to support a vibrant, revitalized, and prosperous rural America." 

The budget proposes $1.1 billion in funding to address climate change across private, working agricultural land. Biden also proposes $1 billion to support agricultural producers and landowners to undertake conservation and climate-smart practices. 

The budget builds on the $618 million investment to protect and restore watersheds made in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by proposing an additional $135 million for these efforts. The budget proposes $111 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and invests $935 million in rural America. 

It builds on the $65 billion investment made by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make high-speed internet available to all Americans. 

The budget includes an additional $133 million over 2022 levels for Reconnect to provide rural residents broadband. Biden's budget also provides more than $10 million for oversight and enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

The Biden-Harris Administration Monday submitted to Congress the President’s budget for fiscal year 2023. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the budget "provides USDA with the tools needed to support a vibrant, revitalized, and prosperous rural America." The budget proposes $1.1 billion in funding to address climate change across private, working agricultural land. Biden also proposes $1 billion to support agricultural producers and landowners to undertake conservation and climate-smart practices. The budget builds on the $618 million investment to protect and restore watersheds made in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law by proposing an additional $135 million for these efforts. The budget proposes $111 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and invests $935 million in rural America. It builds on the $65 billion investment made by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make high-speed internet available to all Americans. The budget includes an additional $133 million over 2022 levels for Reconnect to provide rural residents broadband. Biden's budget also provides more than $10 million for oversight and enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

Biden releases 2023 budget: USDA highlights

After a storm of surging prices followed by a week of decline, the national average is virtually unchanged from a week ago, declining just tenths of a penny to $4.23 per gallon. 

The national average is up 62.4 cents from a month ago and $1.38 per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel has risen 8.2 cents in the last week and stands at $5.12 per gallon. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Hann says, “The decline we’ve seen in average gas prices has been slowing down, as oil prices have held above $100 after declining under that level as recently as a few weeks ago.” 

De Haan adds, “there’s no telling what’s around the corner, at least for now, as the volatility in oil prices persists.” With an OPEC+ meeting later this week, hopes are high that the group will again boost oil production by the same 400,000-barrel number they’ve agreed to every month since last July.

After a storm of surging prices followed by a week of decline, the national average is virtually unchanged from a week ago, declining just tenths of a penny to $4.23 per gallon. The national average is up 62.4 cents from a month ago and $1.38 per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has risen 8.2 cents in the last week and stands at $5.12 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Hann says, “The decline we’ve seen in average gas prices has been slowing down, as oil prices have held above $100 after declining under that level as recently as a few weeks ago.” De Haan adds, “there’s no telling what’s around the corner, at least for now, as the volatility in oil prices persists.” With an OPEC+ meeting later this week, hopes are high that the group will again boost oil production by the same 400,000-barrel number they’ve agreed to every month since last July.

Fuel prices stabilize as oil prices show extreme volatility

Corn grower leaders from 19 states combined to send a letter to President Biden asking him to use existing emergency authorities to tap more homegrown fuels like ethanol. 

The goal is to help stabilize energy markets and lower the price of fuel for consumers. 

The letter asks the president to prevent consumers from losing the choice of E15, a higher ethanol blend that costs less at the pump and reduces emissions. 

A 2021 court decision resulting from oil industry efforts to limit the growth of higher ethanol blends ended year-round market access for E15. 

That ban will begin this summer without action from the administration or Congress. “We urge your administration to act to prevent consumers from losing access to a lower-cost fuel option on June 1,” the letter says.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Corn Growers say increasing the use of lower-cost and lower-emission E15 could easily replace oil imports from Russia.

Corn grower leaders from 19 states combined to send a letter to President Biden asking him to use existing emergency authorities to tap more homegrown fuels like ethanol. The goal is to help stabilize energy markets and lower the price of fuel for consumers. The letter asks the president to prevent consumers from losing the choice of E15, a higher ethanol blend that costs less at the pump and reduces emissions. A 2021 court decision resulting from oil industry efforts to limit the growth of higher ethanol blends ended year-round market access for E15. That ban will begin this summer without action from the administration or Congress. “We urge your administration to act to prevent consumers from losing access to a lower-cost fuel option on June 1,” the letter says.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Corn Growers say increasing the use of lower-cost and lower-emission E15 could easily replace oil imports from Russia.

Corn growers ask administration for more homegrown fuels

The U.S. and United Kingdom reached a new Section 232 agreement last week regarding steel and aluminum imports from the UK. 

That’s good news for America’s farmers because the 25 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. corn was zeroed out, allowing U.S. corn farmers to renew their trading relationship with Britain. 

“This agreement will provide opportunities to expand free and fair trade and strengthen our relationship with a great ally,” says U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. “This agreement lifts the retaliatory tariffs on more than $500 million of U.S. products, including corn.” 

USGC also says this is a great opportunity because the UK is the fifth-largest economy but produces less than 60 percent of its food needs. That makes it a potentially lucrative market for U.S. agriculture and feed grains in particular. 

“This is vital for global economic development and the profitability of U.S. agriculture,” LeGrand adds. The agreement is effective June 1.

The U.S. and United Kingdom reached a new Section 232 agreement last week regarding steel and aluminum imports from the UK. That’s good news for America’s farmers because the 25 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. corn was zeroed out, allowing U.S. corn farmers to renew their trading relationship with Britain. “This agreement will provide opportunities to expand free and fair trade and strengthen our relationship with a great ally,” says U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. “This agreement lifts the retaliatory tariffs on more than $500 million of U.S. products, including corn.” USGC also says this is a great opportunity because the UK is the fifth-largest economy but produces less than 60 percent of its food needs. That makes it a potentially lucrative market for U.S. agriculture and feed grains in particular. “This is vital for global economic development and the profitability of U.S. agriculture,” LeGrand adds. The agreement is effective June 1.

U.S., UK reach new Section 232 agreement

Farmers in Ukraine, a major exporter of grains, have planted the first 150,000 hectares (371,000 acres) of spring crops despite the Russian invasion that will likely cut down on the country’s available sowing area. 

The country’s deputy ag minister says farmers have planted corn, soybeans, sunflowers, millet, buckwheat, oats, and sugar beets. 

Reuters says Ukraine’s previous ag minister, who resigned for health reasons, noted that the 2022 spring crop area would likely drop by more than half the levels of 2021. Ukraine expected to plant 15 million hectares before the Russian invasion. 

The country has already suspended exports of multiple commodities, including rye, oats, buckwheat, millet, sugar, salt, meat, and livestock since the invasion began. 

Ukraine also implemented export licenses for wheat, corn, and sunflower oil. Officials noted that the Ukraine government is considering canceling export limits for corn and sunflower oil as it has high stocks of both commodities.

Farmers in Ukraine, a major exporter of grains, have planted the first 150,000 hectares (371,000 acres) of spring crops despite the Russian invasion that will likely cut down on the country’s available sowing area. The country’s deputy ag minister says farmers have planted corn, soybeans, sunflowers, millet, buckwheat, oats, and sugar beets. Reuters says Ukraine’s previous ag minister, who resigned for health reasons, noted that the 2022 spring crop area would likely drop by more than half the levels of 2021. Ukraine expected to plant 15 million hectares before the Russian invasion. The country has already suspended exports of multiple commodities, including rye, oats, buckwheat, millet, sugar, salt, meat, and livestock since the invasion began. Ukraine also implemented export licenses for wheat, corn, and sunflower oil. Officials noted that the Ukraine government is considering canceling export limits for corn and sunflower oil as it has high stocks of both commodities.

Ukraine farmers have planted over 300,000 acres of crops

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the U.S. and Japan reached an agreement that will help keep more American beef flowing into Japan. 

The two countries agreed to increase the beef safeguard trigger level under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement. 

The Hagstrom Report says it’s now less likely that U.S. exports will reach the levels that trigger the safeguard provision allowing Japan to raise its tariffs. 

“This is a win-win for American ranchers and Japanese consumers,” says U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It ensures stability for U.S. exports in the years ahead and that American beef can compete and win anywhere, anytime.” 

The agreement includes a new three-trigger mechanism, and all three must get hit for Japan put the safeguard in place and raise the beef tariff. It’s unknown when the agreement goes into effect because the text must get published, and Japan’s parliament must approve the agreement.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the U.S. and Japan reached an agreement that will help keep more American beef flowing into Japan. The two countries agreed to increase the beef safeguard trigger level under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement. The Hagstrom Report says it’s now less likely that U.S. exports will reach the levels that trigger the safeguard provision allowing Japan to raise its tariffs. “This is a win-win for American ranchers and Japanese consumers,” says U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It ensures stability for U.S. exports in the years ahead and that American beef can compete and win anywhere, anytime.” The agreement includes a new three-trigger mechanism, and all three must get hit for Japan put the safeguard in place and raise the beef tariff. It’s unknown when the agreement goes into effect because the text must get published, and Japan’s parliament must approve the agreement.

U.S., Japan reach agreement on American beef import targets

Several farm groups are pressuring the USDA to allow farmers to plant on Conservation Reserve Program acres. 

The groups say the move would help to fill the likely lack of corn, wheat, and sunflower oil coming from Ukraine because of the Russian invasion. 

Yahoo News says seven agriculture lobbying organizations fired off a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack this week asking the USDA for flexibility for farmers to plant crops on more than four million acres of “prime farmland” that’s currently enrolled in the Farm Service Agency’s CRP without penalty. 

“It remains to be seen if Ukraine’s farmers will be able to safely plant crops,” the letter says. “Time is of the essence. The planting window in the United States is already open.” 

The letter was signed by the American Farm Bureau, the National Grain and Feed Association, and several other groups. If the acres get planted, they could yield another 18.7 million tons of grain.

Several farm groups are pressuring the USDA to allow farmers to plant on Conservation Reserve Program acres. The groups say the move would help to fill the likely lack of corn, wheat, and sunflower oil coming from Ukraine because of the Russian invasion. Yahoo News says seven agriculture lobbying organizations fired off a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack this week asking the USDA for flexibility for farmers to plant crops on more than four million acres of “prime farmland” that’s currently enrolled in the Farm Service Agency’s CRP without penalty. “It remains to be seen if Ukraine’s farmers will be able to safely plant crops,” the letter says. “Time is of the essence. The planting window in the United States is already open.” The letter was signed by the American Farm Bureau, the National Grain and Feed Association, and several other groups. If the acres get planted, they could yield another 18.7 million tons of grain.

Farm groups pressure Washington to open CRP for planting

The U.S.-China Business Council applauded the Biden administration for renewing tariff exclusions on 352 categories of Chinese imports. 

However, the group is disappointed that the administration didn’t approve the exclusions on the full list of 549 categories requested. 

The council says no reason was given for not approving them all. American companies have submitted 53,000 requests for tariff exclusions but fewer than 7,000 were granted. 

“We know that the tariffs are a tax on U.S. businesses and consumers, that they haven’t influenced China’s behavior, which was the justification for making the move, and they likely contribute to domestic inflation,” says Craig Allen, president of the USCBC. 

“They negatively affect U.S. companies of all sizes, especially many of the smaller ones still struggling to survive.” The council points out that then-presidential candidate Joe Biden was correct in calling former President Trump’s tariffs “disastrous,” acknowledging the trade war with China hurt U.S. farmers and families.

The U.S.-China Business Council applauded the Biden administration for renewing tariff exclusions on 352 categories of Chinese imports. However, the group is disappointed that the administration didn’t approve the exclusions on the full list of 549 categories requested. The council says no reason was given for not approving them all. American companies have submitted 53,000 requests for tariff exclusions but fewer than 7,000 were granted. “We know that the tariffs are a tax on U.S. businesses and consumers, that they haven’t influenced China’s behavior, which was the justification for making the move, and they likely contribute to domestic inflation,” says Craig Allen, president of the USCBC. “They negatively affect U.S. companies of all sizes, especially many of the smaller ones still struggling to survive.” The council points out that then-presidential candidate Joe Biden was correct in calling former President Trump’s tariffs “disastrous,” acknowledging the trade war with China hurt U.S. farmers and families.

Administration continues some tariff exclusions with China

Growth Energy Wednesday launched a new ad campaign calling on President Biden to direct his administration to lift restrictions on the year-round sale of E15. 

Growth Energy says the action would boost energy security and combat the surge in fuel costs accelerated by the conflict in Ukraine. 

The campaign will air on FOX, MSNBC, and CNN in the Washington, D.C. area. It will run until June 1, when many retailers will be forced to pull E15 from the market due to oil companies’ successful challenge in court to eliminate this fuel choice. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “The White House says all options are on the table to ease surging gas prices, and E15 is a common-sense solution that can deliver immediate relief at the pump.” In some markets, E15 is already saving drivers 50 to 60 cents per gallon, but that option could vanish on June 1 unless the Biden EPA takes swift action, according to Growth Energy.

Growth Energy Wednesday launched a new ad campaign calling on President Biden to direct his administration to lift restrictions on the year-round sale of E15. Growth Energy says the action would boost energy security and combat the surge in fuel costs accelerated by the conflict in Ukraine. The campaign will air on FOX, MSNBC, and CNN in the Washington, D.C. area. It will run until June 1, when many retailers will be forced to pull E15 from the market due to oil companies’ successful challenge in court to eliminate this fuel choice. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “The White House says all options are on the table to ease surging gas prices, and E15 is a common-sense solution that can deliver immediate relief at the pump.” In some markets, E15 is already saving drivers 50 to 60 cents per gallon, but that option could vanish on June 1 unless the Biden EPA takes swift action, according to Growth Energy.

Growth Energy ad campaign presses E15 fix to deliver relief at the pump

Brazil has temporarily lifted its 18 percent tariff on all U.S. ethanol as of Wednesday, March 23 and running through the end of the year to decrease inflationary pressures. 

Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council; Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy; and Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, released a joint statement regarding the tariff. 

The leaders say, “We are pleased to see the temporary elimination of the 18 percent tariff, which should improve access for Brazil’s ethanol consumers as well as help meet its own decarbonization goals.” 

Brazil sources an estimated 60 percent of its ethanol imports from the United States. World-Grain reports most cars in the country are flex-fuel, which means they can either use gasoline or hydrated ethanol. Brazil also has a mandatory blend of 25 percent to 27 percent anhydrous ethanol in gasoline.

Brazil has temporarily lifted its 18 percent tariff on all U.S. ethanol as of Wednesday, March 23 and running through the end of the year to decrease inflationary pressures. Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council; Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy; and Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, released a joint statement regarding the tariff. The leaders say, “We are pleased to see the temporary elimination of the 18 percent tariff, which should improve access for Brazil’s ethanol consumers as well as help meet its own decarbonization goals.” Brazil sources an estimated 60 percent of its ethanol imports from the United States. World-Grain reports most cars in the country are flex-fuel, which means they can either use gasoline or hydrated ethanol. Brazil also has a mandatory blend of 25 percent to 27 percent anhydrous ethanol in gasoline.

Brazil’s suspension of ethanol tariff welcomed as opportunity

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council lauded passage by the Senate Commerce Committee of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. 

The approval Tuesday establishes Senate committee support for action to address shipping supply chain challenges as Congress prepares to begin conference procedures on the Senate-passed U.S. Innovation &amp; Competition Act and the House-passed America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing, Pre-Eminence in Technology, and Economic Strength Act in the coming weeks. 

Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of NMPF, says, “Export supply chain issues continue to pose immense challenges to dairy exporters, which is why this legislation remains so critical as part of a broad-based approach to tackling those problems.” 

In the House, Representative Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, says, “Getting this bill across the finish line and signed by the President is crucial to begin easing the costly problems created by foreign carriers’ unfair shipping practices.

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council lauded passage by the Senate Commerce Committee of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. The approval Tuesday establishes Senate committee support for action to address shipping supply chain challenges as Congress prepares to begin conference procedures on the Senate-passed U.S. Innovation &amp; Competition Act and the House-passed America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing, Pre-Eminence in Technology, and Economic Strength Act in the coming weeks. Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of NMPF, says, “Export supply chain issues continue to pose immense challenges to dairy exporters, which is why this legislation remains so critical as part of a broad-based approach to tackling those problems.” In the House, Representative Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, says, “Getting this bill across the finish line and signed by the President is crucial to begin easing the costly problems created by foreign carriers’ unfair shipping practices.

NMPF, USDEC commend Congressional progress on Ocean Shipping Reform Act

A new partnership between USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service and Farmers for Soil Health was awarded a $1 million grant to advance adoption of soil conservation practices on farms. 

FSH is a farmer-led, farmer-funded initiative that will help producers plant cover crops on 30 million acres of soybeans and corn by 2030 to improve overall soil health. FSH is a joint effort of National Pork Board, National Corn Growers Association and the United Soybean Board. 

Pork producers can measure their cover crop adoption by using On-Farm Sustainability Reports, which are available at no additional cost to them to help document and improve on-farm sustainability efforts. Steve Rommereim, past president of NPB, says, “Nearly one-half of pork’s environmental footprint comes from the corn and soybeans that are fed to pigs.” 

Rommereim adds sustainable pork production begins with sustainably grown feed. NPB says the initiative will support the environmental stewardship on row-crop acres, ultimately helping pork producers meet their sustainability goals.

A new partnership between USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service and Farmers for Soil Health was awarded a $1 million grant to advance adoption of soil conservation practices on farms. FSH is a farmer-led, farmer-funded initiative that will help producers plant cover crops on 30 million acres of soybeans and corn by 2030 to improve overall soil health. FSH is a joint effort of National Pork Board, National Corn Growers Association and the United Soybean Board. Pork producers can measure their cover crop adoption by using On-Farm Sustainability Reports, which are available at no additional cost to them to help document and improve on-farm sustainability efforts. Steve Rommereim, past president of NPB, says, “Nearly one-half of pork’s environmental footprint comes from the corn and soybeans that are fed to pigs.” Rommereim adds sustainable pork production begins with sustainably grown feed. NPB says the initiative will support the environmental stewardship on row-crop acres, ultimately helping pork producers meet their sustainability goals.

Cover crops goal to benefit pig farm sustainability

The farm share of the food dollar increased one cent in 2020, according to new data from USDA's Economic Research Service. 

On average, U.S. farmers received 16.0 cents for farm commodity sales from each consumer dollar spent on domestically produced food in 2020, up from a revised 15 cents in 2019. Known as the farm share, the one-cent rise is the largest increase in nearly a decade. 

On the other hand, the marketing share goes to food-supply-chain industries that move domestically produced food from farms to points of purchase, including costs related to packaging, transporting, processing, and selling to consumers at grocery stores and eating-out places. 

In the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic, households redirected a substantial amount of their eating-out dollars, or food-away-from-home spending, toward food-at-home markets such as grocery stores. 

Generally, farmers receive a smaller share from eating-out dollars because a larger portion is spent on preparing and serving meals at restaurants, cafeterias, and other food-service establishments.

The farm share of the food dollar increased one cent in 2020, according to new data from USDA's Economic Research Service. On average, U.S. farmers received 16.0 cents for farm commodity sales from each consumer dollar spent on domestically produced food in 2020, up from a revised 15 cents in 2019. Known as the farm share, the one-cent rise is the largest increase in nearly a decade. On the other hand, the marketing share goes to food-supply-chain industries that move domestically produced food from farms to points of purchase, including costs related to packaging, transporting, processing, and selling to consumers at grocery stores and eating-out places. In the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic, households redirected a substantial amount of their eating-out dollars, or food-away-from-home spending, toward food-at-home markets such as grocery stores. Generally, farmers receive a smaller share from eating-out dollars because a larger portion is spent on preparing and serving meals at restaurants, cafeterias, and other food-service establishments.

Farm share of U.S. food dollar rose one cent in 2020

John Deere announced this week it will enhance the capabilities of existing diagnostic tools and expand their availability. 

In 2023, the company will roll out an enhanced customer solution that includes a mobile device interface, and the ability to download secure software updates directly to embedded controllers on select John Deere equipment with 4G connections. 

Luke Gakstatter of Deere says, "We recognize our customers' desire for more autonomy in managing their equipment." In addition, John Deere announced that coming this May it will expand its offerings by giving customers and independent repair shops in the U.S. the ability to purchase Customer Service ADVISOR directly through JohnDeereStore.com. 

However, the United States Public Interest Research Group, which has criticized equipment manufacturers for restricting customer access to resources to repair their machines, called for more. A U.S. PIRG Spokesperson says, "Farmers don’t have time to wait for another half-step, only to learn several years down the line that they are still not allowed to perform critical repairs on their equipment.”

John Deere announced this week it will enhance the capabilities of existing diagnostic tools and expand their availability. In 2023, the company will roll out an enhanced customer solution that includes a mobile device interface, and the ability to download secure software updates directly to embedded controllers on select John Deere equipment with 4G connections. Luke Gakstatter of Deere says, "We recognize our customers' desire for more autonomy in managing their equipment." In addition, John Deere announced that coming this May it will expand its offerings by giving customers and independent repair shops in the U.S. the ability to purchase Customer Service ADVISOR directly through JohnDeereStore.com. However, the United States Public Interest Research Group, which has criticized equipment manufacturers for restricting customer access to resources to repair their machines, called for more. A U.S. PIRG Spokesperson says, "Farmers don’t have time to wait for another half-step, only to learn several years down the line that they are still not allowed to perform critical repairs on their equipment.”

Deere expands access to self-repair resources

George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States, is set to headline the 2022 Cattle Raisers Convention &amp; Expo, hosted annually by the Texas &amp; Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. 

The event takes place at the Fort Worth Convention Center in downtown Fort Worth on March 25-27. 

President Bush will be joined by legendary singer/songwriter/actor Red Steagall, who will sit down with him for a special conversation about his time in the White House, the challenges facing our nation in the 21st century, and his current work at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. 

TSCRA CEO Jason Skaggs says, “He’s spoken all over the world, but on March 26, the 43rd President of the United States will address a group of cattle raisers in Fort Worth, and we couldn’t be more honored.” 

The event is the largest cattle and ranching industry event in the Southwest, with more than 4,000 attendees expected. Open-to-the-public, more information can be found at cattleraisersconvention.com.

George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States, is set to headline the 2022 Cattle Raisers Convention &amp; Expo, hosted annually by the Texas &amp; Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. The event takes place at the Fort Worth Convention Center in downtown Fort Worth on March 25-27. President Bush will be joined by legendary singer/songwriter/actor Red Steagall, who will sit down with him for a special conversation about his time in the White House, the challenges facing our nation in the 21st century, and his current work at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. TSCRA CEO Jason Skaggs says, “He’s spoken all over the world, but on March 26, the 43rd President of the United States will address a group of cattle raisers in Fort Worth, and we couldn’t be more honored.” The event is the largest cattle and ranching industry event in the Southwest, with more than 4,000 attendees expected. Open-to-the-public, more information can be found at cattleraisersconvention.com.

Former U.S. President to headline Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor Monday applauded members of the House of Representatives for introducing the Home Front Energy Independence Act. 

In response to rising gas prices and the global energy crisis due to the war in Ukraine, the legislation would make the sale of E15 year-round permanent, create a tax credit for higher biofuel blends, streamline E15 labeling, provide funding for E15 infrastructure, extend the biodiesel tax credit for three more years, and ban imports of Russian petroleum products. 

Skor says, “The Home Front Energy Independence Act would boost U.S. energy security by increasing the supply of lower-cost, homegrown biofuels available to drivers.” 

Iowa Republican Representatives Randy Feenstra and Ashley Hinson were joined by Democrats Cheri Bustos of Illinois and Angie Craig of Minnesota to introduce the bill. The House bill is companion legislation to a Senate bill introduced by Iowa Republican Senator Joni Ernst and Senate Democrat Amy Klobuchar.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor Monday applauded members of the House of Representatives for introducing the Home Front Energy Independence Act. In response to rising gas prices and the global energy crisis due to the war in Ukraine, the legislation would make the sale of E15 year-round permanent, create a tax credit for higher biofuel blends, streamline E15 labeling, provide funding for E15 infrastructure, extend the biodiesel tax credit for three more years, and ban imports of Russian petroleum products. Skor says, “The Home Front Energy Independence Act would boost U.S. energy security by increasing the supply of lower-cost, homegrown biofuels available to drivers.” Iowa Republican Representatives Randy Feenstra and Ashley Hinson were joined by Democrats Cheri Bustos of Illinois and Angie Craig of Minnesota to introduce the bill. The House bill is companion legislation to a Senate bill introduced by Iowa Republican Senator Joni Ernst and Senate Democrat Amy Klobuchar.

Growth Energy applauds U.S. House action to expand E15

Today is National Ag Day, celebrating American agriculture. In his proclamation of National Ag Day, President Joe Biden writes, "I call upon all Americans to join me in recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to and appreciation” of American agriculture. 

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is highlighting the technology and innovation in agriculture on the National Mall, with a half-mile of farm equipment and booths to educate the public and lawmakers. 

Also, student leaders from FFA, 4-H, Agriculture Future of America, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences are sharing information on the critical role agriculture plays in our culture and economy. 

A National FFA spokesperson says, “National Ag Day gives students from agriculture youth organizations the chance to work together and share the importance of agriculture and agricultural education with our national government leaders.” This year marks the 49th anniversary of National Ag Day, celebrated in classrooms and communities across the country.

Today is National Ag Day, celebrating American agriculture. In his proclamation of National Ag Day, President Joe Biden writes, "I call upon all Americans to join me in recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to and appreciation” of American agriculture. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is highlighting the technology and innovation in agriculture on the National Mall, with a half-mile of farm equipment and booths to educate the public and lawmakers. Also, student leaders from FFA, 4-H, Agriculture Future of America, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences are sharing information on the critical role agriculture plays in our culture and economy. A National FFA spokesperson says, “National Ag Day gives students from agriculture youth organizations the chance to work together and share the importance of agriculture and agricultural education with our national government leaders.” This year marks the 49th anniversary of National Ag Day, celebrated in classrooms and communities across the country.

America celebrates National Ag Day

Agriculture groups had two requests for a stay of the Environmental Protection Agency’s ban on chlorpyrifos turned down by a federal court.

 DTN says the court will allow the groups’ latest suit against the agency to go forward. Farmers still can’t use the insecticide on food or feed crops because its food residue tolerances got revoked. The leading groups of the ag coalition include the American Soybean Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, 

American Sugarbeet Growers Association, and the Cherry Marketing Institute. Together with 16 other groups, they say the EPA’s decision to revoke the food tolerances for the insecticide causes major harm to their industries, which use it to control pests like aphids, stink bugs, and more. 

A coalition statement says, “We are disappointed with the court’s decision to deny the motion to stay the rule while the case is heard and are discussing what will be our next steps in the process.”

Agriculture groups had two requests for a stay of the Environmental Protection Agency’s ban on chlorpyrifos turned down by a federal court. DTN says the court will allow the groups’ latest suit against the agency to go forward. Farmers still can’t use the insecticide on food or feed crops because its food residue tolerances got revoked. The leading groups of the ag coalition include the American Soybean Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sugarbeet Growers Association, and the Cherry Marketing Institute. Together with 16 other groups, they say the EPA’s decision to revoke the food tolerances for the insecticide causes major harm to their industries, which use it to control pests like aphids, stink bugs, and more. A coalition statement says, “We are disappointed with the court’s decision to deny the motion to stay the rule while the case is heard and are discussing what will be our next steps in the process.”

Chlorpyrifos ban will stand

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is taking specific actions to improve America’s nutrition security. 

The USDA’s nutrition security efforts build on the work the agency and its partners are doing to improve food security by increasing the Department’s focus on diet-related chronic diseases. Studies show that diet-related diseases are a leading cause of death in the country.

 “COVID-19 brought food insecurity to the forefront of the national conversation and shined a new light on the devastating toll of chronic disease,” Vilsack says. “As many as two-thirds of COVID hospitalizations in the country are related to diet-related diseases.” 

The strategies for improving nutrition security include providing nutrition support through all life stages, connecting all Americans with healthy and affordable food sources, developing and enacting nutrition science through partnerships, and prioritizing equity every step of the way. 

Poor diet increases the risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and more. Modernizing the WIC program is among the agency’s first objectives.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is taking specific actions to improve America’s nutrition security. The USDA’s nutrition security efforts build on the work the agency and its partners are doing to improve food security by increasing the Department’s focus on diet-related chronic diseases. Studies show that diet-related diseases are a leading cause of death in the country. “COVID-19 brought food insecurity to the forefront of the national conversation and shined a new light on the devastating toll of chronic disease,” Vilsack says. “As many as two-thirds of COVID hospitalizations in the country are related to diet-related diseases.” The strategies for improving nutrition security include providing nutrition support through all life stages, connecting all Americans with healthy and affordable food sources, developing and enacting nutrition science through partnerships, and prioritizing equity every step of the way. Poor diet increases the risks of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and more. Modernizing the WIC program is among the agency’s first objectives.

USDA tackling nutrition insecurity

The cost of growing crops could outpace revenue for many farmers this year, making it more difficult to break even despite rising commodity prices and increasing domestic and global demand. 

An American Farm Bureau Market Intel Report says that farm production costs are likely to rise six percent in 2022, which follows a 12 percent rise in 2021. This continues a trend stretching back several years, as farmers have seen almost all production expenses rise since 2013. 

Production cost increases include rising fertilizer, seed, and chemical prices that now make up 17.5 percent of on-farm expenditures; rising fuel and energy prices that are made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict; increasing costs of labor for both farmers and agribusinesses; COVID-19 disruptions of labor markets and production. 

“Right now, there are serious concerns about whether farmers will be able to access the supplies they need to put a crop in the ground,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

The cost of growing crops could outpace revenue for many farmers this year, making it more difficult to break even despite rising commodity prices and increasing domestic and global demand. An American Farm Bureau Market Intel Report says that farm production costs are likely to rise six percent in 2022, which follows a 12 percent rise in 2021. This continues a trend stretching back several years, as farmers have seen almost all production expenses rise since 2013. Production cost increases include rising fertilizer, seed, and chemical prices that now make up 17.5 percent of on-farm expenditures; rising fuel and energy prices that are made worse by the Russia-Ukraine conflict; increasing costs of labor for both farmers and agribusinesses; COVID-19 disruptions of labor markets and production. “Right now, there are serious concerns about whether farmers will be able to access the supplies they need to put a crop in the ground,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall.

Production costs outpacing commodity prices

DETROIT (AP) — Canadian Teamsters and CP Rail blamed each other for a work stoppage Sunday that brought trains to a halt across Canada and interrupted fertilizer and other shipments to and from the U.S.

More than 3,000 Canadian Pacific Rail conductors, engineers, train and yard workers represented by the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference are off the job after both sides couldn't reach a deal by a midnight deadline.

Both sides say they are still talking with federal mediators.

Canadian Pacific covers much of the U.S. Midwest and is a large shipper of potash and fertilizer for agriculture. It also carries grain from the U.S. to its northern neighbor for domestic use and exports. The railroad serves the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri and other states, according to a map on its investor website. CP also operates in New England and upstate New York, spokesman Patrick Waldron said.

CP says it's the leading carrier of potash, a plant nutrient used in the production of multiple crops. The company says in investor documents that it carries 70% of the potash produced in North America, all from mines in Saskatchewan.

The railroad says it also carries fertilizers, including phosphate, urea, ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate and anhydrous ammonia. About half its fertilizer shipments originate from processing plants in Alberta.

CP got 29% of its 2020 freight revenue from cross-border shipments between the U.S. and Canada, its investor website said.

A lengthy interruption of fertilizer shipments could hurt U.S. farmers, who are nearing the spring planting season. The work stoppage could also exacerbate existing supply chain bottlenecks in the U.S. and Canada that stem from the COVID-19 pandemic.

U.S. trains were not affected by the work stoppage, but the railroad cannot make shipments between the two nations, Waldron said.

On Saturday, the Teamsters said in a statement that the company had locked the workers out, but later issued another statement saying the workers were also on strike.

The original statement posted to the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference website late Saturday said the union wanted to continue bargaining but the company "chose to put the Canadian supply chain and tens of thousands of jobs at risk.″

"As Canadians grapple with a never-ending pandemic, exploding commodity prices and the war in Ukraine, the rail carrier is adding an unnecessary layer of insecurity, especially for those who depend on the rail network,″ the statement said.

CP Rail, Canada’s second-largest railroad operator, said it was the company that wanted to keep talking, and the union that pulled its employees off the job.

CP President Keith Creel said in a news release the union "failed to respond″ to a new offer presented by mediators before the midnight deadline.

“Instead, the TCRC opted to withdraw their services before the deadline for a strike or lockout could legally take place,″ he said. "The TCRC is well aware of the damage this reckless action will cause to the Canadian supply chain.″

Labor Minister Seamus O’Regan urged the two sides to keep bargaining.

The Canadian and U.S. supply chains also were hit by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-detroit-canada-20f273b32bfa8ef695fdabcc7e11321e">trucker convoy protests&nbsp;</a>blocking border crossings in February, and now are dealing with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-biden-business-europe-b20d71c150712fe2e6dc3d44af8d1268">the effects, particularly on global fuel supplies, of the Russian invasion in Ukraine and sanctions imposed by the U.S. and its allies.</a>

All the disruptions pushed inflation to its highest level since the early 1980s, with essentials such as food and fuel facing some of the sharpest price hikes.

CP and the union have been negotiating since September, with wages and pensions a sticking point. A clause on where employees take their federally mandated break periods is also an issue.

CP Rail says this is the fifth work stoppage since 1993.

DETROIT (AP) — Canadian Teamsters and CP Rail blamed each other for a work stoppage Sunday that brought trains to a halt across Canada and interrupted fertilizer and other shipments to and from the U.S.More than 3,000 Canadian Pacific Rail conductors, engineers, train and yard workers represented by the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference are off the job after both sides couldn't reach a deal by a midnight deadline.Both sides say they are still talking with federal mediators.Canadian Pacific covers much of the U.S. Midwest and is a large shipper of potash and fertilizer for agriculture. It also carries grain from the U.S. to its northern neighbor for domestic use and exports. The railroad serves the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri and other states, according to a map on its investor website. CP also operates in New England and upstate New York, spokesman Patrick Waldron said.CP says it's the leading carrier of potash, a plant nutrient used in the production of multiple crops. The company says in investor documents that it carries 70% of the potash produced in North America, all from mines in Saskatchewan.The railroad says it also carries fertilizers, including phosphate, urea, ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate and anhydrous ammonia. About half its fertilizer shipments originate from processing plants in Alberta.CP got 29% of its 2020 freight revenue from cross-border shipments between the U.S. and Canada, its investor website said.A lengthy interruption of fertilizer shipments could hurt U.S. farmers, who are nearing the spring planting season. The work stoppage could also exacerbate existing supply chain bottlenecks in the U.S. and Canada that stem from the COVID-19 pandemic.U.S. trains were not affected by the work stoppage, but the railroad cannot make shipments between the two nations, Waldron said.On Saturday, the Teamsters said in a statement that the company had locked the workers out, but later issued another statement saying the workers were also on strike.The original statement posted to the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference website late Saturday said the union wanted to continue bargaining but the company "chose to put the Canadian supply chain and tens of thousands of jobs at risk.″"As Canadians grapple with a never-ending pandemic, exploding commodity prices and the war in Ukraine, the rail carrier is adding an unnecessary layer of insecurity, especially for those who depend on the rail network,″ the statement said.CP Rail, Canada’s second-largest railroad operator, said it was the company that wanted to keep talking, and the union that pulled its employees off the job.CP President Keith Creel said in a news release the union "failed to respond″ to a new offer presented by mediators before the midnight deadline.“Instead, the TCRC opted to withdraw their services before the deadline for a strike or lockout could legally take place,″ he said. "The TCRC is well aware of the damage this reckless action will cause to the Canadian supply chain.″Labor Minister Seamus O’Regan urged the two sides to keep bargaining.The Canadian and U.S. supply chains also were hit by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-detroit-canada-20f273b32bfa8ef695fdabcc7e11321e">trucker convoy protests&nbsp;</a>blocking border crossings in February, and now are dealing with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-biden-business-europe-b20d71c150712fe2e6dc3d44af8d1268">the effects, particularly on global fuel supplies, of the Russian invasion in Ukraine and sanctions imposed by the U.S. and its allies.</a>All the disruptions pushed inflation to its highest level since the early 1980s, with essentials such as food and fuel facing some of the sharpest price hikes.CP and the union have been negotiating since September, with wages and pensions a sticking point. A clause on where employees take their federally mandated break periods is also an issue.CP Rail says this is the fifth work stoppage since 1993.

Canadian Pacific rail work stoppage could hit U.S. agriculture

Over 120 pounds of prohibited pork and poultry meat were found in a minivan trying to cross the border from Mexico into Texas. 

The Kansas City Star says federal officials and agricultural specialists at the border seized the prohibited meat at the Laredo Port of Entry. A news release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection says pork and pork products are always banned from entering the U.S. through Mexico, and other meats are either prohibited or restricted. 

The regulations are in place to make sure that harmful pests or diseases don’t make it into the country through imported food products. Authorities say the driver didn’t declare having any meats when arriving at the border. 

“This significant seizure shows the importance of CBP’s agricultural mission to prevent the spread of potential animal diseases that could risk public safety and inflict harm on the nation’s agricultural economy,” says Alberto Flores, Director of the Laredo Port.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647615521510.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Packages containing 124 pounds of prohibited fresh pork and poultry meat seized by CBP officers, agriculture specialists at Laredo Port of Entry's Juarez-Lincoln Bridge./ Photo provided by US Customs and Border Protection" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Packages containing 124 pounds of prohibited fresh pork and poultry meat seized by CBP officers, agriculture specialists at Laredo Port of Entry's Juarez-Lincoln Bridge./ Photo provided by US Customs and Border Protection</figcaption>
 </figure>Over 120 pounds of prohibited pork and poultry meat were found in a minivan trying to cross the border from Mexico into Texas. The Kansas City Star says federal officials and agricultural specialists at the border seized the prohibited meat at the Laredo Port of Entry. A news release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection says pork and pork products are always banned from entering the U.S. through Mexico, and other meats are either prohibited or restricted. The regulations are in place to make sure that harmful pests or diseases don’t make it into the country through imported food products. Authorities say the driver didn’t declare having any meats when arriving at the border. “This significant seizure shows the importance of CBP’s agricultural mission to prevent the spread of potential animal diseases that could risk public safety and inflict harm on the nation’s agricultural economy,” says Alberto Flores, Director of the Laredo Port.

Prohibited pork, poultry seized at border

America’s inventories of ethanol are at their highest level since the early days of the pandemic. 

The U.S. hasn’t had this much ethanol on hand since April 2020. In its latest report, the Energy Information Administration says ethanol inventories totaled 25.95 million barrels during the week ending on March 11. Market Watch says that’s up from 25.27 million barrels reported during the prior week. 

The EIA says inventories of more than 26 million barrels back in April of 2020 were the previous high-water mark. The stockpiles are well above the forecasts of industry analysts surveyed by the Dow Jones during the week. Their forecasts predicted stocks would be between 25.25 to 25.5 million barrels. 

Meanwhile, daily production only dropped off slightly, averaging 1.026 million barrels a day, down from 1.028 million a day during the prior week. The Midwest, which produces the most barrels of any region in the country, dropped output to 971,000 barrels a day.&nbsp; &nbsp;

America’s inventories of ethanol are at their highest level since the early days of the pandemic. The U.S. hasn’t had this much ethanol on hand since April 2020. In its latest report, the Energy Information Administration says ethanol inventories totaled 25.95 million barrels during the week ending on March 11. Market Watch says that’s up from 25.27 million barrels reported during the prior week. The EIA says inventories of more than 26 million barrels back in April of 2020 were the previous high-water mark. The stockpiles are well above the forecasts of industry analysts surveyed by the Dow Jones during the week. Their forecasts predicted stocks would be between 25.25 to 25.5 million barrels. Meanwhile, daily production only dropped off slightly, averaging 1.026 million barrels a day, down from 1.028 million a day during the prior week. The Midwest, which produces the most barrels of any region in the country, dropped output to 971,000 barrels a day.&nbsp; &nbsp;

U.S. ethanol stocks hit pandemic high numbers

The United States will begin trade talks with the United Kingdom next week in Baltimore, Maryland. Reuters says cementing a trade deal with the U.S. was one of the main goals of the push to get Britain out of the European Union. 

The two sides say the negotiations will be on March 21 and 22, followed by another meeting in Britain later in the spring. U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai says the talks “will explore how the United States and the United Kingdom can collaborate to advance mutual international trade priorities rooted in our shared values while also promoting innovation and inclusive economic growth for workers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” 

The countries will discuss collaborating on easing supply-chain congestion, decarbonizing their economies, promoting digital trade, and supporting each other’s domestic workforces and labor rights. The UK government says it looks forward to deepening the already-thriving $153 billion relationship.

The United States will begin trade talks with the United Kingdom next week in Baltimore, Maryland. Reuters says cementing a trade deal with the U.S. was one of the main goals of the push to get Britain out of the European Union. The two sides say the negotiations will be on March 21 and 22, followed by another meeting in Britain later in the spring. U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai says the talks “will explore how the United States and the United Kingdom can collaborate to advance mutual international trade priorities rooted in our shared values while also promoting innovation and inclusive economic growth for workers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.” The countries will discuss collaborating on easing supply-chain congestion, decarbonizing their economies, promoting digital trade, and supporting each other’s domestic workforces and labor rights. The UK government says it looks forward to deepening the already-thriving $153 billion relationship.

U.S., Britain to start trade talks next week

The Environmental Protection Agency this week announced further label restrictions on over-the-top use of Dicamba in Minnesota and Iowa. 

The changes, requested by pesticide registrants in consultation with those states, are intended to reduce risks from the use of over-the-top dicamba, an herbicide used to control certain types of broadleaf weeds. 

The revised labeling prohibits over-the-top dicamba application on dicamba-tolerant crops after June 20 in Iowa, and on dicamba-tolerant crops south of Interstate 94 after June 12 in Minnesota. The cut-off date for land north of Interstate 94 remains June 30. 

The revisions also prohibit the practice when the air temperature is over 85 degrees at the time of application or if the forecasted high temperature of the nearest available location exceeds 85 degrees in Minnesota. 

These restrictions are intended to reduce the likelihood of volatility and offsite movement of over-the-top dicamba by avoiding application on days with high temperatures, according to the EPA.

The Environmental Protection Agency this week announced further label restrictions on over-the-top use of Dicamba in Minnesota and Iowa. The changes, requested by pesticide registrants in consultation with those states, are intended to reduce risks from the use of over-the-top dicamba, an herbicide used to control certain types of broadleaf weeds. The revised labeling prohibits over-the-top dicamba application on dicamba-tolerant crops after June 20 in Iowa, and on dicamba-tolerant crops south of Interstate 94 after June 12 in Minnesota. The cut-off date for land north of Interstate 94 remains June 30. The revisions also prohibit the practice when the air temperature is over 85 degrees at the time of application or if the forecasted high temperature of the nearest available location exceeds 85 degrees in Minnesota. These restrictions are intended to reduce the likelihood of volatility and offsite movement of over-the-top dicamba by avoiding application on days with high temperatures, according to the EPA.