The American Farm Bureau is calling on USDA to take steps to make sure American farmers continue to have access to crucial fertilizer supplies. 

The organization submitted comments on USDA’s “Request for Information on Access to Fertilizer.” 

AFBF says many factors are combining to create shortages and drive up fertilizer costs. 

“America’s farmers are getting called on to feed both America’s families and families overseas as war and shortages take their toll on international neighbors,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. 

“We need long-term solutions.” The organization’s recommendations include assistance for farmers to expand on-site farm fertilizer storage capacity to help them manage costs year-round.&nbsp;&nbsp;They want the EPA to reform its review processes that create barriers to domestic fertilizer production. 

AFB also wants modernized weight restrictions for trucks to help reduce the number that’s needed to transport goods and to enact rail reforms to help promote competition, fairer rates, and reliable service.

The American Farm Bureau is calling on USDA to take steps to make sure American farmers continue to have access to crucial fertilizer supplies. The organization submitted comments on USDA’s “Request for Information on Access to Fertilizer.” AFBF says many factors are combining to create shortages and drive up fertilizer costs. “America’s farmers are getting called on to feed both America’s families and families overseas as war and shortages take their toll on international neighbors,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We need long-term solutions.” The organization’s recommendations include assistance for farmers to expand on-site farm fertilizer storage capacity to help them manage costs year-round.&nbsp;&nbsp;They want the EPA to reform its review processes that create barriers to domestic fertilizer production. AFB also wants modernized weight restrictions for trucks to help reduce the number that’s needed to transport goods and to enact rail reforms to help promote competition, fairer rates, and reliable service.

Removing barriers to meet growing demand for food

U.S. farmers are working to help feed the world and fill a void in food production left by the war in Ukraine. 

Corn grower leaders unanimously passed a measure calling on the White House to maintain grower access to inputs. 

The measure says the “ability to address the crises facing our world today in a sustainable manner cannot be achieved without fair access to the inputs necessary to raise a crop each year, including pesticides, fertilizer, and biotech seeds.” 

The unanimous vote comes after the Environmental Protection Agency revised its atrazine registration, a move that could limit access to a critical crop protection tool which has been tested and proven safe for use. 

The move also comes after the Supreme Court recently refused to hear a case from California regarding glyphosate, which leaves a ruling in place that says glyphosate causes cancer. Farmers worry about a state-by-state patchwork of regulations in the future.

U.S. farmers are working to help feed the world and fill a void in food production left by the war in Ukraine. Corn grower leaders unanimously passed a measure calling on the White House to maintain grower access to inputs. The measure says the “ability to address the crises facing our world today in a sustainable manner cannot be achieved without fair access to the inputs necessary to raise a crop each year, including pesticides, fertilizer, and biotech seeds.” The unanimous vote comes after the Environmental Protection Agency revised its atrazine registration, a move that could limit access to a critical crop protection tool which has been tested and proven safe for use. The move also comes after the Supreme Court recently refused to hear a case from California regarding glyphosate, which leaves a ruling in place that says glyphosate causes cancer. Farmers worry about a state-by-state patchwork of regulations in the future.

NCGA corn congress meeting addresses crop input costs, availability

A number of factors are sending up red flags about slowing economic activity and a potential oncoming recession. 

A CoBank report says inflation is the largest red flag, and the Fed is ready to raise rates until it believes inflation has been controlled. 

“Warehouse and inventory costs are still rising at near-peak levels, and transportation costs are rising at a much higher rate than before COVID-19,” says Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. 

“Grain rail car availability and prices were at multi-year lows and highs respectively, in the second quarter.” Shifting economic sentiments have brought ag and energy commodity prices down from their peaks. 

Grain prices in the second quarter remained volatile, but grain and oilseed prices should push higher because of tight global commodity supplies, especially wheat and soybeans. There are challenges ahead because of dry July weather, and Asian-made crop protection chemicals will continue in short supply.

A number of factors are sending up red flags about slowing economic activity and a potential oncoming recession. A CoBank report says inflation is the largest red flag, and the Fed is ready to raise rates until it believes inflation has been controlled. “Warehouse and inventory costs are still rising at near-peak levels, and transportation costs are rising at a much higher rate than before COVID-19,” says Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “Grain rail car availability and prices were at multi-year lows and highs respectively, in the second quarter.” Shifting economic sentiments have brought ag and energy commodity prices down from their peaks. Grain prices in the second quarter remained volatile, but grain and oilseed prices should push higher because of tight global commodity supplies, especially wheat and soybeans. There are challenges ahead because of dry July weather, and Asian-made crop protection chemicals will continue in short supply.

CoBank report details current and future ag economic conditions

The top Republicans on the House and Senate Agriculture Committees call on the Environmental Protection Agency to "cease politicization of crop protection tools. 

Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson of Pennsylvania and Senator John Boozman of Arkansas penned a letter to the EPA this week “about the concerning trend of disregarding scientifically-sound, risk-based regulatory processes, and unilaterally denying access to a range of crop protection tools.” Russia’s war in Ukraine has sent shockwaves through the global food system resulting in increased energy prices, fertilizer cost spikes and shortages, and worsening food shortages in developing countries.

 As the world faces an emerging food crisis due to this conflict, the lawmakers say, “our policies should be focused on supporting American production instead of creating further burden and ambiguity for our farmers and ranchers.” The letter follows a previous effort last year calling on the EPA to rescind its decision to revoke all food tolerances for chlorpyrifos and ensure future actions related to crop protection tools are consistent with the science-based, regulatory process.

The top Republicans on the House and Senate Agriculture Committees call on the Environmental Protection Agency to "cease politicization of crop protection tools. Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson of Pennsylvania and Senator John Boozman of Arkansas penned a letter to the EPA this week “about the concerning trend of disregarding scientifically-sound, risk-based regulatory processes, and unilaterally denying access to a range of crop protection tools.” Russia’s war in Ukraine has sent shockwaves through the global food system resulting in increased energy prices, fertilizer cost spikes and shortages, and worsening food shortages in developing countries. As the world faces an emerging food crisis due to this conflict, the lawmakers say, “our policies should be focused on supporting American production instead of creating further burden and ambiguity for our farmers and ranchers.” The letter follows a previous effort last year calling on the EPA to rescind its decision to revoke all food tolerances for chlorpyrifos and ensure future actions related to crop protection tools are consistent with the science-based, regulatory process.

Ag lawmakers call on EPA to cease politicization of crop protection tools

The National Corn Growers Association awarded Senator Chuck Grassley the organization' President Award for his leadership and commitment to advocating for corn growers and agriculture. The President's Award is the most prestigious recognition by NCGA and was presented to Grassley during NCGA's Corn Congress events in Washington, D.C. 

The Iowa Republican says, “I am honored and humbled to receive this lifetime achievement award.” Grassley, one of only two farmers in the Senate, is a member of the Iowa Corn Growers Association. NCGA President Chris Edgington of Iowa adds, “we would not have secured the policy successes we have over the years were it not for the contributions of the senior senator from Iowa.”&nbsp;

 Grassley serves on several committees, including the Senate Agricultural Committee. A lifelong Iowan, Grassley was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1980. NCGA’s President’s Award is given annually to a leader who has worked to advance issues important to corn growers and agriculture.

The National Corn Growers Association awarded Senator Chuck Grassley the organization' President Award for his leadership and commitment to advocating for corn growers and agriculture. The President's Award is the most prestigious recognition by NCGA and was presented to Grassley during NCGA's Corn Congress events in Washington, D.C. The Iowa Republican says, “I am honored and humbled to receive this lifetime achievement award.” Grassley, one of only two farmers in the Senate, is a member of the Iowa Corn Growers Association. NCGA President Chris Edgington of Iowa adds, “we would not have secured the policy successes we have over the years were it not for the contributions of the senior senator from Iowa.”&nbsp; Grassley serves on several committees, including the Senate Agricultural Committee. A lifelong Iowan, Grassley was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1980. NCGA’s President’s Award is given annually to a leader who has worked to advance issues important to corn growers and agriculture.

Grassley receives President’s Award from National Corn Growers Association

House Agriculture Chairman David Scott announced the intention to introduce a bill to help small family farmers and ranchers and address the national crisis in our nation’s beef supply chain. Scott says, “What has been missing from the conversation is help for the very beginning of our food supply chain, which is our nation’s small family farmers and ranchers.” 

The bill creates a new program that strengthens the federal safety net and makes insurance products work better for small cattle farmers and ranchers, both in terms of coverage and accessibility. The second pillar establishes a grant program at USDA to help small farmers and ranchers and producer-owned cooperatives to undertake innovative business initiatives. 

By developing more direct-to-consumer and direct-to-institution markets, the legislation will give small farmers and ranchers more control over where they sell their cattle or meat products and provide them with opportunities to add value to their products and increase their profitability, according to Scott.

House Agriculture Chairman David Scott announced the intention to introduce a bill to help small family farmers and ranchers and address the national crisis in our nation’s beef supply chain. Scott says, “What has been missing from the conversation is help for the very beginning of our food supply chain, which is our nation’s small family farmers and ranchers.” The bill creates a new program that strengthens the federal safety net and makes insurance products work better for small cattle farmers and ranchers, both in terms of coverage and accessibility. The second pillar establishes a grant program at USDA to help small farmers and ranchers and producer-owned cooperatives to undertake innovative business initiatives. By developing more direct-to-consumer and direct-to-institution markets, the legislation will give small farmers and ranchers more control over where they sell their cattle or meat products and provide them with opportunities to add value to their products and increase their profitability, according to Scott.

House Ag Chair announces bill to support Small Cattle Farmers

Republican lawmakers demand the Biden administration waive import duties on fertilizer from Morocco and Trinidad and Tobago. 

The Biden administration has placed duties on fertilizer imports of phosphate fertilizer products from Morocco and is working on new duties on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer from Trinidad and Tobago. Led by Senator Roger Marshall and Representative Tracey Mann of Kansas, a group of Republicans made the demand in a letter to President Biden. 

The letter states, “The bottom line is that fertilizer is critical to national security and national defense.” In June, President Biden, using his emergency authority, issued a proclamation titled “Declaration of Emergency and Authorization for Temporary Extensions of Time and Duty-Free Importation of Solar Cells and Modules from Southeast Asia.” 

The decision waived countervailing duties and anti-dumping duties for solar panels. President Biden’s emergency justifications for this proclamation are also applicable to fertilizer, according to the letter, which directly impacts food prices more than any emergency concerning solar panels.

Republican lawmakers demand the Biden administration waive import duties on fertilizer from Morocco and Trinidad and Tobago. The Biden administration has placed duties on fertilizer imports of phosphate fertilizer products from Morocco and is working on new duties on urea ammonium nitrate fertilizer from Trinidad and Tobago. Led by Senator Roger Marshall and Representative Tracey Mann of Kansas, a group of Republicans made the demand in a letter to President Biden. The letter states, “The bottom line is that fertilizer is critical to national security and national defense.” In June, President Biden, using his emergency authority, issued a proclamation titled “Declaration of Emergency and Authorization for Temporary Extensions of Time and Duty-Free Importation of Solar Cells and Modules from Southeast Asia.” The decision waived countervailing duties and anti-dumping duties for solar panels. President Biden’s emergency justifications for this proclamation are also applicable to fertilizer, according to the letter, which directly impacts food prices more than any emergency concerning solar panels.

Republican lawmakers demand Biden relax import duties on fertilizer

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 1.3 percent in June on a seasonally adjusted basis after rising 1.0 percent in May. 

Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 9.1 percent before seasonal adjustment. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the increase was broad-based, with the indexes for gasoline, shelter, and food being the largest contributors. 

The all-items index increased 9.1 percent for the 12 months ending June, the largest 12-month increase since the period ending November 1981. The food index increased 1.0 percent in June, following a 1.2-percent increase in May. 

The index for food at home also rose 1.0 percent in June, the sixth consecutive increase of at least 1.0 percent in that index. Five of the six major grocery store food group indexes rose in June. The index for other food at home rose 1.8 percent, with sharp increases in the indexes for butter and for sugar and sweets.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 1.3 percent in June on a seasonally adjusted basis after rising 1.0 percent in May. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 9.1 percent before seasonal adjustment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the increase was broad-based, with the indexes for gasoline, shelter, and food being the largest contributors. The all-items index increased 9.1 percent for the 12 months ending June, the largest 12-month increase since the period ending November 1981. The food index increased 1.0 percent in June, following a 1.2-percent increase in May. The index for food at home also rose 1.0 percent in June, the sixth consecutive increase of at least 1.0 percent in that index. Five of the six major grocery store food group indexes rose in June. The index for other food at home rose 1.8 percent, with sharp increases in the indexes for butter and for sugar and sweets.

Consumer Price Index increases

Clean Fuels Alliance America wrote to President Joe Biden Wednesday and other administration officials to highlight the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry’s contribution to job growth.

 The letter asks the administration to support tax policy that encourages continued investments, capacity expansion, and additional job creation. 

The letter states, “The clean fuels industry increased production during 2021, making an essential contribution to the nation’s fuel supply,” adding, “Our industry plans to continue increasing production this year.” 

The recent United States Energy and Employment Report 2022 shows that the clean fuels industry added jobs in 2021 at a rate of 6.7 percent and anticipates continued job growth of 5.8 percent in manufacturing during 2022. 

Additionally, a recent study from the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Service showing that U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel production generated a four percent decrease in the price of diesel fuel in 2021 – a saving of $0.22 a gallon at current fuel prices.

Clean Fuels Alliance America wrote to President Joe Biden Wednesday and other administration officials to highlight the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry’s contribution to job growth. The letter asks the administration to support tax policy that encourages continued investments, capacity expansion, and additional job creation. The letter states, “The clean fuels industry increased production during 2021, making an essential contribution to the nation’s fuel supply,” adding, “Our industry plans to continue increasing production this year.” The recent United States Energy and Employment Report 2022 shows that the clean fuels industry added jobs in 2021 at a rate of 6.7 percent and anticipates continued job growth of 5.8 percent in manufacturing during 2022. Additionally, a recent study from the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Service showing that U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel production generated a four percent decrease in the price of diesel fuel in 2021 – a saving of $0.22 a gallon at current fuel prices.

Clean Fuels highlights job creation and economic benefits in letter to President Biden

Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley will lead a delegation of representatives from 29 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations to Manila, Philippines, July 18-21. 

The delegation is part of a Department of Agriculture-sponsored trade mission. 

The Philippines is the eighth-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, averaging $3.1 billion annually during the last five years. 

Whitley says, “The Philippines is an excellent market for U.S. farm and food products, and we look forward to introducing a diverse group of companies and organizations to new export opportunities there.” 

Participants will engage directly with potential buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from FAS and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. 

Whitley will be joined by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Steve Wellman, South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Secretary Hunter Roberts and Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr, among others.

Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley will lead a delegation of representatives from 29 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations to Manila, Philippines, July 18-21. The delegation is part of a Department of Agriculture-sponsored trade mission. The Philippines is the eighth-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, averaging $3.1 billion annually during the last five years. Whitley says, “The Philippines is an excellent market for U.S. farm and food products, and we look forward to introducing a diverse group of companies and organizations to new export opportunities there.” Participants will engage directly with potential buyers, receive in-depth market briefs from FAS and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits. Whitley will be joined by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Steve Wellman, South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Secretary Hunter Roberts and Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr, among others.

FAS Administrator Whitley to lead Philippines trade mission

Leadership of the House Agriculture Committee this week announced an online form to gather farmer feedback for consideration in the next farm bill. 

House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott and Ranking Member Glenn "GT" Thompson announced the form for farmers and ranchers to submit their feedback and ideas for the 2023 Farm Bill. 

Chairman Scott says, “This is a chance to hear directly from farmers, ranchers and foresters across the nation.” 

Ranking Member Thompson adds, “Hearing directly from farm country about what’s working and what’s not is the only way to ensure we craft a bill that meets the needs of rural America.” 

In addition to the feedback gathered online, the House Agriculture Committee will continue to conduct hearings in Washington, DC and hold listening sessions across the country to gather input as we prepare for the 2023 Farm Bill. The online form is available on the House Ag Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://agriculture.house.gov/components/redirect/r.aspx?ID=7530-1376">website</a>.

Leadership of the House Agriculture Committee this week announced an online form to gather farmer feedback for consideration in the next farm bill. House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott and Ranking Member Glenn "GT" Thompson announced the form for farmers and ranchers to submit their feedback and ideas for the 2023 Farm Bill. Chairman Scott says, “This is a chance to hear directly from farmers, ranchers and foresters across the nation.” Ranking Member Thompson adds, “Hearing directly from farm country about what’s working and what’s not is the only way to ensure we craft a bill that meets the needs of rural America.” In addition to the feedback gathered online, the House Agriculture Committee will continue to conduct hearings in Washington, DC and hold listening sessions across the country to gather input as we prepare for the 2023 Farm Bill. The online form is available on the House Ag Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://agriculture.house.gov/components/redirect/r.aspx?ID=7530-1376">website</a>.

House Ag Committee leaders launch online farm bill feedback form

The North American Meat Institute's Executive Board voted unanimously late Friday to designate food security as a non-competitive issue. 

Announces Tuesday, the action, according to the organization, strengthens industry-wide efforts to end hunger and ensure families in need have access to nutrient-dense meat. 

NAMI President and CEO Julie Anna Potts says, "Declaring food security a non-competitive issue will allow the Meat Institute and its members to freely share best practices." 

Potts says the action is especially important as the industry prepares to support the September 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health. Through the Protein PACT for the People, Animals and Climate of tomorrow, the Meat Institute has committed to fill the protein gap by 2025. 

The Meat Institute has also established a Food Security Committee to bring members together to facilitate discussion, information-sharing, and problem-solving related to charitable giving, hunger relief and food security.

The North American Meat Institute's Executive Board voted unanimously late Friday to designate food security as a non-competitive issue. Announces Tuesday, the action, according to the organization, strengthens industry-wide efforts to end hunger and ensure families in need have access to nutrient-dense meat. NAMI President and CEO Julie Anna Potts says, "Declaring food security a non-competitive issue will allow the Meat Institute and its members to freely share best practices." Potts says the action is especially important as the industry prepares to support the September 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health. Through the Protein PACT for the People, Animals and Climate of tomorrow, the Meat Institute has committed to fill the protein gap by 2025. The Meat Institute has also established a Food Security Committee to bring members together to facilitate discussion, information-sharing, and problem-solving related to charitable giving, hunger relief and food security.

Meat industry leaders strengthen collaboration on food security

U.S. residents are scooping less of their favorite frozen treats than two decades ago. 

USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reported that in 2020, the United States consumed about 21 pounds per person of frozen dairy products—about five pounds per capita less than in 2000. 

Consumption of regular ice cream in 2020 was estimated at 12.7 pounds per person, a decrease of about 3.4 pounds from 2000. 

At 6.9 pounds, per capita consumption of low-fat and nonfat ice cream was about the same in 2020 as in 2000.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consumption of other frozen dairy products, which include frozen yogurt, sherbet, and other frozen dairy products, decreased from 3.4 pounds to 1.6 pounds per person in the same period. 

This trend in frozen dairy products is in line with a decline in consumption of total caloric sweeteners per capita from 149.0 pounds in 2000 to 122.5 pounds per capita in 2020, reflecting shifting preferences among consumers.

U.S. residents are scooping less of their favorite frozen treats than two decades ago. USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reported that in 2020, the United States consumed about 21 pounds per person of frozen dairy products—about five pounds per capita less than in 2000. Consumption of regular ice cream in 2020 was estimated at 12.7 pounds per person, a decrease of about 3.4 pounds from 2000. At 6.9 pounds, per capita consumption of low-fat and nonfat ice cream was about the same in 2020 as in 2000.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consumption of other frozen dairy products, which include frozen yogurt, sherbet, and other frozen dairy products, decreased from 3.4 pounds to 1.6 pounds per person in the same period. This trend in frozen dairy products is in line with a decline in consumption of total caloric sweeteners per capita from 149.0 pounds in 2000 to 122.5 pounds per capita in 2020, reflecting shifting preferences among consumers.

U.S. residents consumed less ice cream in 2020 than in 2000

Five executives in the poultry industry were found not guilty of a price-fixing conspiracy between 2012 and 2019. 

The Denver Post says the verdict is a defeat for prosecutors and happened after two mistrials. 

Jurors acquitted the current and former CEOs of Pilgrim’s Pride, a former Pilgrim’s Pride vice president, and the president and vice president of Claxton Poultry. 

Criminal trials of industry executives are unusual. 

The three trials happened as rising meat prices added fuel to soaring inflation. The Department of Justice hoped to succeed in the third trial by narrowing the defendants in previous cases from 10 to five in the third attempt. 

“Although we are disappointed in the verdict, we will continue to vigorously enforce the antitrust laws, especially when it comes to price-fixing schemes affecting food,” the DOJ says in a statement. A lawyer for one of the defendants says the case “should never have been brought.”

Five executives in the poultry industry were found not guilty of a price-fixing conspiracy between 2012 and 2019. The Denver Post says the verdict is a defeat for prosecutors and happened after two mistrials. Jurors acquitted the current and former CEOs of Pilgrim’s Pride, a former Pilgrim’s Pride vice president, and the president and vice president of Claxton Poultry. Criminal trials of industry executives are unusual. The three trials happened as rising meat prices added fuel to soaring inflation. The Department of Justice hoped to succeed in the third trial by narrowing the defendants in previous cases from 10 to five in the third attempt. “Although we are disappointed in the verdict, we will continue to vigorously enforce the antitrust laws, especially when it comes to price-fixing schemes affecting food,” the DOJ says in a statement. A lawyer for one of the defendants says the case “should never have been brought.”

Poultry executives not guilty of price-fixing

Smart growth and investment in Midwest downtowns and main streets have to occur now to secure the land that grows our food. 

That conclusion is from American Farmland Trust, which released a report called “Farms Under Threat 2040: Choosing an Abundant Future.” 

The report’s research shows that by 2040, more than three million acres, or nearly 5,000 square miles of farmland, may be lost to urban and low-density conversion across the Midwest. 

Six Midwestern states made the top ten list of the number of farmland acres getting converted to urban development by 2040. Those states include Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. 

The report shows the loss will disproportionately affect smaller farms that often service local markets with fresh products. Many of those smaller farms also tend to bring new farmers into the profession and are instrumental in getting through the supply chain disruptions hitting grocery stores around the nation.

Smart growth and investment in Midwest downtowns and main streets have to occur now to secure the land that grows our food. That conclusion is from American Farmland Trust, which released a report called “Farms Under Threat 2040: Choosing an Abundant Future.” The report’s research shows that by 2040, more than three million acres, or nearly 5,000 square miles of farmland, may be lost to urban and low-density conversion across the Midwest. Six Midwestern states made the top ten list of the number of farmland acres getting converted to urban development by 2040. Those states include Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The report shows the loss will disproportionately affect smaller farms that often service local markets with fresh products. Many of those smaller farms also tend to bring new farmers into the profession and are instrumental in getting through the supply chain disruptions hitting grocery stores around the nation.

Safeguarding midwest lands that grow food

Gas prices dropped last week by the largest one-day amount in over ten years. 

Auto club Triple-A says the average prices at U.S. pumps fell 3.1 cents per gallon on Friday, the largest one-time decrease since 2008. 

Despite the recent drop in gas prices, they’re still roughly $1.60 higher than last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ten states still have prices over $5 a gallon, and California is above $6 a gallon. &nbsp;

Late last week, Bloomberg said supplies remain tight for fuel. U.S. total gasoline stocks are at their lowest seasonal level in seven years, even though refiners on the Gulf Coast and East Coast have been running at almost maximum capacity. 

East Coast supplies are particularly vulnerable, and they’re at the lowest seasonal level on record since the government started collecting data in 1993. Gas prices are a major contributor to inflation and will be a significant issue in the upcoming U.S. elections.

Gas prices dropped last week by the largest one-day amount in over ten years. Auto club Triple-A says the average prices at U.S. pumps fell 3.1 cents per gallon on Friday, the largest one-time decrease since 2008. Despite the recent drop in gas prices, they’re still roughly $1.60 higher than last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ten states still have prices over $5 a gallon, and California is above $6 a gallon. &nbsp;Late last week, Bloomberg said supplies remain tight for fuel. U.S. total gasoline stocks are at their lowest seasonal level in seven years, even though refiners on the Gulf Coast and East Coast have been running at almost maximum capacity. East Coast supplies are particularly vulnerable, and they’re at the lowest seasonal level on record since the government started collecting data in 1993. Gas prices are a major contributor to inflation and will be a significant issue in the upcoming U.S. elections.

Gas prices see biggest one-day drop since 2008

A coalition of almost 100 American food and agriculture organizations called for the prompt confirmation of Doug McKalip as the Chief Agriculture Negotiator in the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. 

In the letter to the U.S. Senate’s Finance Committee, the groups highlighted McKalip’s deep knowledge of the food and agriculture industry and his institutional, regulatory, and trade experience. 

The groups also note that McKalip has the experience necessary to tackle some of the most pressing trade policy issues the industry is facing. 

“Doug McKalip is an excellent nominee for the critical role of Chief Agricultural Negotiator, especially as the U.S. needs to increase global trade and secure greater market access for U.S. products,” says John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. 

The group of associations that sent the letter endorsing McKalip includes much of the food and agricultural sector that’s responsible for about one-fifth of the country’s economic activity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654878888454.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of NCGA" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of NCGA</figcaption>
 </figure>A coalition of almost 100 American food and agriculture organizations called for the prompt confirmation of Doug McKalip as the Chief Agriculture Negotiator in the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. In the letter to the U.S. Senate’s Finance Committee, the groups highlighted McKalip’s deep knowledge of the food and agriculture industry and his institutional, regulatory, and trade experience. The groups also note that McKalip has the experience necessary to tackle some of the most pressing trade policy issues the industry is facing. “Doug McKalip is an excellent nominee for the critical role of Chief Agricultural Negotiator, especially as the U.S. needs to increase global trade and secure greater market access for U.S. products,” says John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. The group of associations that sent the letter endorsing McKalip includes much of the food and agricultural sector that’s responsible for about one-fifth of the country’s economic activity.

One hundred groups call for swift confirmation of new Chief Ag Negotiator

Smithfield Foods will pay $42 million to settle a lawsuit that accused the meatpacker of conspiring to fix pork prices. 

CBS News says lawyers began notifying companies like restaurants and caterers of the settlement. 

Smithfield previously settled with a different group of pork buyers for $83 million. 

Meatpacker JBS agreed to pay the restaurants and caterers an additional $12.75 million in the same pork lawsuit. 

Earlier this year, JBS had already agreed to pay $52.5 million to settle a similar price-fixing lawsuit over beef. Neither Smithfield nor JBS admitted to any wrongdoing as part of those settlements, and officials at Smithfield headquarters wouldn’t comment on the settlement. 

Other price-fixing lawsuits have also been filed against national chicken producers, with almost $200 million in settlements already approved in price-fixing cases to date. Pilgrim’s Pride, one of the country’s biggest chicken producers, was fined $107 million for price fixing in February 2021.

Smithfield Foods will pay $42 million to settle a lawsuit that accused the meatpacker of conspiring to fix pork prices. CBS News says lawyers began notifying companies like restaurants and caterers of the settlement. Smithfield previously settled with a different group of pork buyers for $83 million. Meatpacker JBS agreed to pay the restaurants and caterers an additional $12.75 million in the same pork lawsuit. Earlier this year, JBS had already agreed to pay $52.5 million to settle a similar price-fixing lawsuit over beef. Neither Smithfield nor JBS admitted to any wrongdoing as part of those settlements, and officials at Smithfield headquarters wouldn’t comment on the settlement. Other price-fixing lawsuits have also been filed against national chicken producers, with almost $200 million in settlements already approved in price-fixing cases to date. Pilgrim’s Pride, one of the country’s biggest chicken producers, was fined $107 million for price fixing in February 2021.

Smithfield settles price-fixing lawsuit for $42 million

Japan’s longest-serving leader and former prime minister, Shinzo Abe, died after being shot at a political campaign event last week. 

The U.S. Grains Council commented on his passing as a great loss for the country. 

“Prime Minister Abe was a leader in many ways, including growing trade between the U.S. and Japan,” says USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. 

‘He continued the long, close friendship between the U.S. and Japan that goes back even farther than the first office we opened in Japan in 1961.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says his organization is deeply saddened by the death of Abe. 

“In addition to being a strong and reliable ally of the U.S., he was a true champion for free trade,” Halstrom says, “especially his leadership in advancing the U.S.-Japan agreement, which was a major victory for American agriculture.” Halstrom also called Abe “courageous and relentless.”

Japan’s longest-serving leader and former prime minister, Shinzo Abe, died after being shot at a political campaign event last week. The U.S. Grains Council commented on his passing as a great loss for the country. “Prime Minister Abe was a leader in many ways, including growing trade between the U.S. and Japan,” says USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. ‘He continued the long, close friendship between the U.S. and Japan that goes back even farther than the first office we opened in Japan in 1961.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says his organization is deeply saddened by the death of Abe. “In addition to being a strong and reliable ally of the U.S., he was a true champion for free trade,” Halstrom says, “especially his leadership in advancing the U.S.-Japan agreement, which was a major victory for American agriculture.” Halstrom also called Abe “courageous and relentless.”

U.S. ag groups note passing of former Japanese prime minister

The U.S. Department of Agriculture underscored the importance of agricultural research and development at the G20 Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists this week. 

Research and development is critical in tackling the challenges of global food security and climate change, according to USDA, which called on G20 members to support the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate. 

USDA’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, led the U.S. delegation to the meeting, where agricultural science leaders from around the world convened to discuss global challenges facing agriculture and to align both national and global research and development priorities. 

Jacobs-Young says, “Ambitious investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation will help create a surge of solutions.” 

Jacobs-Young also highlighted the United States’ leadership role in the global Coalition for Sustainable Productivity Growth, as well as the United States continued focus on innovative technologies and approaches to reduce food loss and waste in the agricultural supply chain.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture underscored the importance of agricultural research and development at the G20 Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists this week. Research and development is critical in tackling the challenges of global food security and climate change, according to USDA, which called on G20 members to support the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate. USDA’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, led the U.S. delegation to the meeting, where agricultural science leaders from around the world convened to discuss global challenges facing agriculture and to align both national and global research and development priorities. Jacobs-Young says, “Ambitious investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation will help create a surge of solutions.” Jacobs-Young also highlighted the United States’ leadership role in the global Coalition for Sustainable Productivity Growth, as well as the United States continued focus on innovative technologies and approaches to reduce food loss and waste in the agricultural supply chain.

USDA highlights importance of innovation at G20 meeting

The latest Drought Monitor shows much of the U.S. is dealing with dry conditions. 

All but 16 percent of the West region is in some form of drought, with 28 percent considered D3-D4, the worst drought classifications. Another 16 percent of the South region is drought-free, with 23 percent in D3-D4. 

Meanwhile, 67 percent of the High Plains region faces drought conditions, along with 50 percent of the Midwest region. 

Finally, 63 percent of the Southeast region is in drought, along with 36 percent of the Northeast region. Short-term drought continued to rapidly expand across the Ohio, Tennessee, and Middle Mississippi Valleys along with parts of the Corn Belt in the last week. 

Thunderstorms brought locally heavy rainfall and drought relief to parts of the central to northern Great Plains. However, temperatures averaged above normal throughout the Great Plains. 

A tropical disturbance in the western Gulf of Mexico and a trough of low pressure resulted in heavy rainfall and improving drought conditions to southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana.

The latest Drought Monitor shows much of the U.S. is dealing with dry conditions. All but 16 percent of the West region is in some form of drought, with 28 percent considered D3-D4, the worst drought classifications. Another 16 percent of the South region is drought-free, with 23 percent in D3-D4. Meanwhile, 67 percent of the High Plains region faces drought conditions, along with 50 percent of the Midwest region. Finally, 63 percent of the Southeast region is in drought, along with 36 percent of the Northeast region. Short-term drought continued to rapidly expand across the Ohio, Tennessee, and Middle Mississippi Valleys along with parts of the Corn Belt in the last week. Thunderstorms brought locally heavy rainfall and drought relief to parts of the central to northern Great Plains. However, temperatures averaged above normal throughout the Great Plains. A tropical disturbance in the western Gulf of Mexico and a trough of low pressure resulted in heavy rainfall and improving drought conditions to southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana.

Drought conditions found in much of the U.S.

The United States and Canada Thursday announced a memorandum of understanding to settle a dispute on trade of solar products under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. 

The MOU promotes greater North American solar supply integration and reaffirms both countries’ commitment to prohibit imports of solar products produced in whole or in part with forced or compulsory labor, according to the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. 

The MOU also contains a mechanism to ensure that solar product imports from Canada do not undermine the existing U.S. safeguard measure on imports of solar products. 

Ambassador Katherine Tai says, “Reaching this settlement with Canada will promote greater deployment of solar energy in the United States using products from one of our closest allies.” The U.S. imposed the solar safeguard measure during the Trump Administration. 

This year, a USMCA panel issued its report, finding that the prior Administration’s decision to include imports from Canada in the solar safeguard measure was inconsistent with certain USMCA rules.

The United States and Canada Thursday announced a memorandum of understanding to settle a dispute on trade of solar products under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The MOU promotes greater North American solar supply integration and reaffirms both countries’ commitment to prohibit imports of solar products produced in whole or in part with forced or compulsory labor, according to the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. The MOU also contains a mechanism to ensure that solar product imports from Canada do not undermine the existing U.S. safeguard measure on imports of solar products. Ambassador Katherine Tai says, “Reaching this settlement with Canada will promote greater deployment of solar energy in the United States using products from one of our closest allies.” The U.S. imposed the solar safeguard measure during the Trump Administration. This year, a USMCA panel issued its report, finding that the prior Administration’s decision to include imports from Canada in the solar safeguard measure was inconsistent with certain USMCA rules.

US, Canada, announce dispute settlement on trade in solar products

Consumers are shifting the blame for inflation from the pandemic to supply chain issues, according to a recent poll by the Consumer Brands Association. 

The poll also showed that most Americans say inflation is hitting their household budgets and that tackling supply chain problems will positively affect inflation. 

The poll of 1,000 adults in mid-June found 72 percent of respondents said that increased grocery prices were having a very significant or somewhat significant impact on their household budgets. 

Only 22 percent said it was having a not very significant impact, and just six percent said it was having no impact. The frustration with higher prices has led to a notable shift in American attitudes about what is to blame for grocery inflation. 

The increase in supply chain costs and constraints as a source of blame for inflation coincides with an uptick in the interest of tackling supply chain problems as a means to ease inflation.

Consumers are shifting the blame for inflation from the pandemic to supply chain issues, according to a recent poll by the Consumer Brands Association. The poll also showed that most Americans say inflation is hitting their household budgets and that tackling supply chain problems will positively affect inflation. The poll of 1,000 adults in mid-June found 72 percent of respondents said that increased grocery prices were having a very significant or somewhat significant impact on their household budgets. Only 22 percent said it was having a not very significant impact, and just six percent said it was having no impact. The frustration with higher prices has led to a notable shift in American attitudes about what is to blame for grocery inflation. The increase in supply chain costs and constraints as a source of blame for inflation coincides with an uptick in the interest of tackling supply chain problems as a means to ease inflation.

Americans increasingly blame supply chain for inflation

Despite improved runoff in June, water conservation measures will continue for the second half of the navigation flow support season, based on the July 1 Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System storage. 

June runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 5.2 million-acre-feet, 94 percent of average. 

The updated 2022 runoff forecast is 20-million-acre feet, 78 percent of average and 1.7-million-acre-feet higher than last month’s forecast. June runoff into Garrison was 110 percent of average. 

John Remus of the Army Corps of Engineers says, “Heavy rain in mid-June on the upper Yellowstone River, coincided with mountain snowmelt increasing inflows into Garrison reservoir.” 

However, due to the ongoing drought and the amount of water stored in the reservoir system, water conservation measures will likely continue through the remainder of 2022 and into 2023. Officials say releases from Gavins Point will likely be at a minimum rate of 12,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite improved runoff in June, water conservation measures will continue for the second half of the navigation flow support season, based on the July 1 Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System storage. June runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 5.2 million-acre-feet, 94 percent of average. The updated 2022 runoff forecast is 20-million-acre feet, 78 percent of average and 1.7-million-acre-feet higher than last month’s forecast. June runoff into Garrison was 110 percent of average. John Remus of the Army Corps of Engineers says, “Heavy rain in mid-June on the upper Yellowstone River, coincided with mountain snowmelt increasing inflows into Garrison reservoir.” However, due to the ongoing drought and the amount of water stored in the reservoir system, water conservation measures will likely continue through the remainder of 2022 and into 2023. Officials say releases from Gavins Point will likely be at a minimum rate of 12,000 cubic feet per second.

Increased June runoff not enough for Missouri River basin drought

A new report released Tuesday from the United Nations shows the number of people affected by hunger globally rose to nearly 830 million in 2021, providing fresh evidence that the world is moving in reverse. 

The UN report says the world is moving in the opposite direction from the Sustainable Development Goal of ending hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms, by 2030. 

The report represents an increase of about 46 million since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic plunged the world’s economy into a downward spiral, and 150 million more since 2019. 

As many as 828 million people were affected by hunger in 2021, 46 million people more from a year earlier and 150 million more from 2019. After remaining relatively unchanged since 2015, the proportion of people affected by hunger jumped in 2020 and continued to rise in 2021, to 9.8 percent of the world population, according to the report.

A new report released Tuesday from the United Nations shows the number of people affected by hunger globally rose to nearly 830 million in 2021, providing fresh evidence that the world is moving in reverse. The UN report says the world is moving in the opposite direction from the Sustainable Development Goal of ending hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms, by 2030. The report represents an increase of about 46 million since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic plunged the world’s economy into a downward spiral, and 150 million more since 2019. As many as 828 million people were affected by hunger in 2021, 46 million people more from a year earlier and 150 million more from 2019. After remaining relatively unchanged since 2015, the proportion of people affected by hunger jumped in 2020 and continued to rise in 2021, to 9.8 percent of the world population, according to the report.