Soybean and grain sales for overseas delivery dropped in the seven days ending on February 24. 

However, USDA says soybean sales for delivery in the 2022-2023 marketing year beginning on September 1 totaled 1.39 million metric tons, with China buying 1.26 million. 

For the week ending on February 24, soybean sales totaled 857,000 metric tons, a 31 percent drop from the previous week and 34 percent lower than the prior four-week average. 

Exports for the week reached 751,000 metric tons, a 40 percent drop week-to-week. Corn sales dropped to 485,000 metric tons during the week, down 53 percent from the week before and 47 percent from the four-week average. 

Corn exports during the week hit 1.55 million metric tons, down 18 percent week-to-week.&nbsp; Wheat sales dipped 42 percent from the prior week to 300,000 metric tons. That was a 54 percent rise compared to the prior four-week average. Wheat exports dropped 33 percent to 365,000 tons.

Soybean and grain sales for overseas delivery dropped in the seven days ending on February 24. However, USDA says soybean sales for delivery in the 2022-2023 marketing year beginning on September 1 totaled 1.39 million metric tons, with China buying 1.26 million. For the week ending on February 24, soybean sales totaled 857,000 metric tons, a 31 percent drop from the previous week and 34 percent lower than the prior four-week average. Exports for the week reached 751,000 metric tons, a 40 percent drop week-to-week. Corn sales dropped to 485,000 metric tons during the week, down 53 percent from the week before and 47 percent from the four-week average. Corn exports during the week hit 1.55 million metric tons, down 18 percent week-to-week.&nbsp; Wheat sales dipped 42 percent from the prior week to 300,000 metric tons. That was a 54 percent rise compared to the prior four-week average. Wheat exports dropped 33 percent to 365,000 tons.

China buys a large supply of U.S. new crop soybeans

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Council rejected a proposal from Canada regarding U.S. access to its dairy markets. 

The organizations say Global Affairs Canada outlined changes last week to their current scheme for allocating U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dairy tariff-rate-quotas. 

In January, the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced it had won USMCA’s first-ever dispute settlement panel with Canada regarding dairy market access for U.S. farmers. 

“Enough is enough,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF.&nbsp; “U.S. dairy producers are sick and tired of Canada’s game playing on dairy market access.” 

As the first case decided under USMCA, the U.S.-Canada dairy TRQ panel is a test case for whether the USMCA dispute settlement process can provide effective enforcement and deliver genuine compliance with the agreement. 

“Canada is trying to see how little will get demanded from them, so it’s essential that the U.S. insist on real reforms,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC.

The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Council rejected a proposal from Canada regarding U.S. access to its dairy markets. The organizations say Global Affairs Canada outlined changes last week to their current scheme for allocating U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dairy tariff-rate-quotas. In January, the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced it had won USMCA’s first-ever dispute settlement panel with Canada regarding dairy market access for U.S. farmers. “Enough is enough,” says Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF.&nbsp; “U.S. dairy producers are sick and tired of Canada’s game playing on dairy market access.” As the first case decided under USMCA, the U.S.-Canada dairy TRQ panel is a test case for whether the USMCA dispute settlement process can provide effective enforcement and deliver genuine compliance with the agreement. “Canada is trying to see how little will get demanded from them, so it’s essential that the U.S. insist on real reforms,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC.

Ag groups reject Canada’s dairy proposal

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service this week removed mandatory mask requirements at federally inspected meat processing facilities. 

As of March 1, 2022, FSIS Notice 34-21 requiring masks was rescinded. FSIS-regulated establishments are no longer subject to suspension or withdrawal of inspection services for failure to require their employees to wear masks when FSIS inspection program personnel are present. 

The action follows Centers for Disease Control guidance changes recommending wearing a well-fitting mask indoors, regardless of vaccination status, only in areas experiencing a high level of COVID-19 and severe disease. 

However, FSIS employees must continue to wear masks at this time as set out in the USDA workplace safety plan. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Beef Processing Committee Chairman Patrick Robinette welcomed the FSIS action. 

Robinette says the updated guidance “will put back into operation several regional processing facilities that were forced to go offline due to the previous guidance.”

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service this week removed mandatory mask requirements at federally inspected meat processing facilities. As of March 1, 2022, FSIS Notice 34-21 requiring masks was rescinded. FSIS-regulated establishments are no longer subject to suspension or withdrawal of inspection services for failure to require their employees to wear masks when FSIS inspection program personnel are present. The action follows Centers for Disease Control guidance changes recommending wearing a well-fitting mask indoors, regardless of vaccination status, only in areas experiencing a high level of COVID-19 and severe disease. However, FSIS employees must continue to wear masks at this time as set out in the USDA workplace safety plan. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Beef Processing Committee Chairman Patrick Robinette welcomed the FSIS action. Robinette says the updated guidance “will put back into operation several regional processing facilities that were forced to go offline due to the previous guidance.”

FSIS removes mask mandate for meat processing facilities

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service this week confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza. 

The virus was found in a non-commercial, backyard poultry flock in Southwest Iowa. The state’s Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says, “We are working with USDA and other partners to implement our plans and protect the health of poultry flocks in Iowa." 

Whether commercial producers or backyard flock owners, all bird owners should practice good biosecurity, which USDA says is the best way to keep livestock healthy. HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease affecting bird populations and can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations. 

Signs of HPAI include a sudden increase in bird deaths, lack of energy or appetite, and decreased egg production. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service this week confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza. The virus was found in a non-commercial, backyard poultry flock in Southwest Iowa. The state’s Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig says, “We are working with USDA and other partners to implement our plans and protect the health of poultry flocks in Iowa." Whether commercial producers or backyard flock owners, all bird owners should practice good biosecurity, which USDA says is the best way to keep livestock healthy. HPAI is a highly contagious, viral disease affecting bird populations and can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations. Signs of HPAI include a sudden increase in bird deaths, lack of energy or appetite, and decreased egg production. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Iowa confirms Avian Flu in poultry flock

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows irrigation methods vary by crop because of differences in production practices, crop value, water source, and soil characteristics. 

Irrigation application methods can be broadly categorized as either gravity or pressurized systems. 

Pressurized irrigation systems apply water under pressure through pipes or other tubing, while gravity irrigation systems use field slope to advance water across the field surface. 

Rice has the largest share of acres irrigated by gravity systems, which is related to the flooding requirements of most rice production systems in the United States. Peanuts have the largest proportion of acres irrigated by pressurized systems. Pressurized systems are also prevalent among high-value specialty crops, such as vegetables and orchards. 

Pressurized irrigation systems, particularly low-flow micro-irrigation systems, are generally more expensive than gravity irrigation systems, precluding their use among lower value crops. Pressurized systems are also more prominent among crops concentrated in regions more reliant on groundwater.

New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows irrigation methods vary by crop because of differences in production practices, crop value, water source, and soil characteristics. Irrigation application methods can be broadly categorized as either gravity or pressurized systems. Pressurized irrigation systems apply water under pressure through pipes or other tubing, while gravity irrigation systems use field slope to advance water across the field surface. Rice has the largest share of acres irrigated by gravity systems, which is related to the flooding requirements of most rice production systems in the United States. Peanuts have the largest proportion of acres irrigated by pressurized systems. Pressurized systems are also prevalent among high-value specialty crops, such as vegetables and orchards. Pressurized irrigation systems, particularly low-flow micro-irrigation systems, are generally more expensive than gravity irrigation systems, precluding their use among lower value crops. Pressurized systems are also more prominent among crops concentrated in regions more reliant on groundwater.

Use of irrigation systems vary by crop

President Joe Biden’s State of the Union transcript included two mentions of the word farm. 

Biden said, “When corporations don’t have to compete, their profits go up, your prices go up, and small businesses and family farmers and ranchers go under,” announcing a crackdown on companies overcharging American businesses and consumers. 

The second, Biden stated a goal to “provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, those on temporary status, farm workers, and essential workers.” The speech included no mention of biofuel, ethanol or agriculture. 

Biofuel is a hot topic for agriculture as the price of gas and oil continue to increase and worries of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are intensifying that. 

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered the Republican response to the speech. While Republicans are not in the White House, she said “We’re doing what we can,” including “fighting to restore America’s energy independence, including biofuels.”

President Joe Biden’s State of the Union transcript included two mentions of the word farm. Biden said, “When corporations don’t have to compete, their profits go up, your prices go up, and small businesses and family farmers and ranchers go under,” announcing a crackdown on companies overcharging American businesses and consumers. The second, Biden stated a goal to “provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, those on temporary status, farm workers, and essential workers.” The speech included no mention of biofuel, ethanol or agriculture. Biofuel is a hot topic for agriculture as the price of gas and oil continue to increase and worries of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are intensifying that. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered the Republican response to the speech. While Republicans are not in the White House, she said “We’re doing what we can,” including “fighting to restore America’s energy independence, including biofuels.”

Biden delivers State of the Union Address

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the uncertainty of the situation in Ukraine underscores the need for more homegrown biofuels to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and improve energy security. 

In an open letter Tuesday ahead of President Biden’s State of the Union Address, Skor highlighted the potential of biofuels to help lessen the impact of high oil and gas prices. 

This week, oil prices spiked to more than $100 a barrel, and gas prices are also increasing. 

In the letter, Skor says, "Increasing access to higher blends of ethanol through E15 year-round can help keep prices down at the pump."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Growth Energy says moving E15 nationwide would generate $12.2 billion in savings for U.S. consumers at the pump each year, and bolster the domestic market supply, driving prices downward.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Skor says homegrown and low-carbon solutions like biofuels can shield American drivers from the continued volatility in the OPEC-controlled, global oil market.&nbsp;

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the uncertainty of the situation in Ukraine underscores the need for more homegrown biofuels to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and improve energy security. In an open letter Tuesday ahead of President Biden’s State of the Union Address, Skor highlighted the potential of biofuels to help lessen the impact of high oil and gas prices. This week, oil prices spiked to more than $100 a barrel, and gas prices are also increasing. In the letter, Skor says, "Increasing access to higher blends of ethanol through E15 year-round can help keep prices down at the pump."&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy says moving E15 nationwide would generate $12.2 billion in savings for U.S. consumers at the pump each year, and bolster the domestic market supply, driving prices downward.&nbsp;&nbsp;Skor says homegrown and low-carbon solutions like biofuels can shield American drivers from the continued volatility in the OPEC-controlled, global oil market.&nbsp;

Growth Energy calls on biofuels to address global energy crisis

Susan Weaver Ford of Kenly, North Carolina, was recognized as the 2022 Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award winner at Farm Journal’s Top Producer Summit in Nashville. 

Sponsored by Pioneer, the Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award honors female producers who are a shining example for their peers. 

The winner is an advocate for agriculture and represents an innovative farming operation. 

Entrants were judged on agricultural advocacy, farm business innovation and industry or community leadership.&nbsp; Applications are received from producers across the country and judged by a panel of industry experts. 

Ford and her father, Ray Weaver, grow tobacco, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and cotton across 2,000 acres, 420 of which are family-owned. 

Top Producer magazine's Sara Schafer says, “She is fine-tuning budgets, marketing grain, negotiating contracts and doing high-level risk management.” Last year she was selected as one of 10 Americans to be a Nuffield International Farming Scholar.

Susan Weaver Ford of Kenly, North Carolina, was recognized as the 2022 Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award winner at Farm Journal’s Top Producer Summit in Nashville. Sponsored by Pioneer, the Executive Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award honors female producers who are a shining example for their peers. The winner is an advocate for agriculture and represents an innovative farming operation. Entrants were judged on agricultural advocacy, farm business innovation and industry or community leadership.&nbsp; Applications are received from producers across the country and judged by a panel of industry experts. Ford and her father, Ray Weaver, grow tobacco, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats and cotton across 2,000 acres, 420 of which are family-owned. Top Producer magazine's Sara Schafer says, “She is fine-tuning budgets, marketing grain, negotiating contracts and doing high-level risk management.” Last year she was selected as one of 10 Americans to be a Nuffield International Farming Scholar.

Top producer names Women in Agriculture Trailblazer Award Winner

The Renewable Fuels Association presented its 2022 Ethanol Industry Award to the National Corn Growers Association. 

The award was given in recognition of the group’s dedicated and sustained efforts on behalf of the ethanol industry over the past four decades. 

The award is the RFA’s highest recognition and was presented during the recent National Ethanol Conference in New Orleans. 

“RFA and NCGA have worked together for decades on policy, market development, research, and promotional efforts aimed at growing our nation’s ethanol industry,” says RFA boss Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“NCGA CEO Jon Doggett was personally involved in the very early negotiations with RFA, the oil industry, and other Ag groups in an effort that ultimately led to the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.”

 He also said that NCGA has worked together with RFA on countless research and ethanol promotion efforts, such as technical work, market development, exports, and many other initiatives. &nbsp;

The Renewable Fuels Association presented its 2022 Ethanol Industry Award to the National Corn Growers Association. The award was given in recognition of the group’s dedicated and sustained efforts on behalf of the ethanol industry over the past four decades. The award is the RFA’s highest recognition and was presented during the recent National Ethanol Conference in New Orleans. “RFA and NCGA have worked together for decades on policy, market development, research, and promotional efforts aimed at growing our nation’s ethanol industry,” says RFA boss Geoff Cooper.&nbsp;&nbsp;“NCGA CEO Jon Doggett was personally involved in the very early negotiations with RFA, the oil industry, and other Ag groups in an effort that ultimately led to the passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.” He also said that NCGA has worked together with RFA on countless research and ethanol promotion efforts, such as technical work, market development, exports, and many other initiatives. &nbsp;

NCGA wins Ethanol Award from the Renewable Fuels Association

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack gave the keynote address last week at the USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. 

The Hagstrom Report says that the secretary called the outlook for U.S. agriculture “bright, strong, and positive” despite the problems around the world. 

When asked about the impact of the battle in Ukraine, Vilsack said it’s too early to make projections about what impacts the war will have on fertilizer and food prices in the U.S. 

He also says the administration will be supportive of state attorneys general analyzing the history of fertilizer pricing. His biggest concern is that companies may be taking advantage of farmers. 

The secretary made his remarks after returning from a trade mission to Dubai, the first mission in two years. Vilsack says ag exports set a record last year, and exports will be even higher this year. He said the Dubai trip is part of an agency effort to diversify exports beyond China.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack gave the keynote address last week at the USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum. The Hagstrom Report says that the secretary called the outlook for U.S. agriculture “bright, strong, and positive” despite the problems around the world. When asked about the impact of the battle in Ukraine, Vilsack said it’s too early to make projections about what impacts the war will have on fertilizer and food prices in the U.S. He also says the administration will be supportive of state attorneys general analyzing the history of fertilizer pricing. His biggest concern is that companies may be taking advantage of farmers. The secretary made his remarks after returning from a trade mission to Dubai, the first mission in two years. Vilsack says ag exports set a record last year, and exports will be even higher this year. He said the Dubai trip is part of an agency effort to diversify exports beyond China.

Vilsack says ag outlook is “strong”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine boosted fuel prices last week. For the ninth straight week, U.S. fuel prices increased, with gas claiming 7.5 cents to an average of $3.59 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. 

The national average is up 23.2 cents from a month ago and 87.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. 

The national average price of diesel increased 5.5 cents in the last week and stands at $3.98 per gallon, the highest since March 23, 2014. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked high level concern that oil production could eventually be stifled, or even sanctioned, from the world’s second largest oil producer, leading to less supply as demand grows.” 

That comes at a time of year when seasonality issues push gasoline prices up by anywhere from 25 to 75 cents by Memorial Day. De Haan says, “it’s looking like a perfect storm,” adding, there is “little to no relief anytime soon.”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine boosted fuel prices last week. For the ninth straight week, U.S. fuel prices increased, with gas claiming 7.5 cents to an average of $3.59 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 23.2 cents from a month ago and 87.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel increased 5.5 cents in the last week and stands at $3.98 per gallon, the highest since March 23, 2014. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sparked high level concern that oil production could eventually be stifled, or even sanctioned, from the world’s second largest oil producer, leading to less supply as demand grows.” That comes at a time of year when seasonality issues push gasoline prices up by anywhere from 25 to 75 cents by Memorial Day. De Haan says, “it’s looking like a perfect storm,” adding, there is “little to no relief anytime soon.”

Invasion sparks increasing fuel, oil prices

The United Soybean Board released results of a new survey highlighting consumer perceptions of U.S. soybeans, soybean farmers, and the American food supply chain. 

The survey shows consumer support of domestic agriculture continues to grow stronger, with 78 percent of consumers saying it’s important to buy U.S.-grown food, including soybeans. The 78 percent is an eight-percent increase from the last survey in December 2020. Other highlights from the study include U.S. farmers being the most trusted source when it comes to food safety, with 83 percent of consumers ranking them number one among members of the supply chain. 

The vast majority of consumers have a very/somewhat positive view of U.S. farmers who grow crops, including soybeans. Soy is seen as healthy by more than half of consumers, with 60 percent saying that soy-based food is somewhat/very healthy. 72 percent of respondents are more positive about soy because of its sustainability. &nbsp;

The United Soybean Board released results of a new survey highlighting consumer perceptions of U.S. soybeans, soybean farmers, and the American food supply chain. The survey shows consumer support of domestic agriculture continues to grow stronger, with 78 percent of consumers saying it’s important to buy U.S.-grown food, including soybeans. The 78 percent is an eight-percent increase from the last survey in December 2020. Other highlights from the study include U.S. farmers being the most trusted source when it comes to food safety, with 83 percent of consumers ranking them number one among members of the supply chain. The vast majority of consumers have a very/somewhat positive view of U.S. farmers who grow crops, including soybeans. Soy is seen as healthy by more than half of consumers, with 60 percent saying that soy-based food is somewhat/very healthy. 72 percent of respondents are more positive about soy because of its sustainability. &nbsp;

Consumers want food made from American crops

International grain buyers are looking for different places to buy wheat and corn as a Russian invasion cut off Ukrainian supplies. 

Reuters says European Union producers like Romania and France are being used to cover some nearby shipments. The conflict is rattling international grain markets. European wheat futures hit record highs last week as stalled shipments from Ukraine and Russia are likely. Those two countries and current adversaries account for nearly a third of world wheat exports and almost a fifth of global corn exports.

 The assault from Moscow led Ukraine to close its ports last week. Romania is a major grain supplier that exports through the Black Sea but outside the conflict zone, so buyers are looking there for backup purchases. Ukraine is a key wheat exporter to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean locations like Egypt, Turkey, Italy, and African countries. 

Ukraine’s corn customers include China, Spain, Iran, and South Korea.

International grain buyers are looking for different places to buy wheat and corn as a Russian invasion cut off Ukrainian supplies. Reuters says European Union producers like Romania and France are being used to cover some nearby shipments. The conflict is rattling international grain markets. European wheat futures hit record highs last week as stalled shipments from Ukraine and Russia are likely. Those two countries and current adversaries account for nearly a third of world wheat exports and almost a fifth of global corn exports. The assault from Moscow led Ukraine to close its ports last week. Romania is a major grain supplier that exports through the Black Sea but outside the conflict zone, so buyers are looking there for backup purchases. Ukraine is a key wheat exporter to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean locations like Egypt, Turkey, Italy, and African countries. Ukraine’s corn customers include China, Spain, Iran, and South Korea.

Grain buyers Look for alternative grain supplies

Agricultural real estate values continued to increase at a rapid pace across farm country through the end of last year. 

The increase in the value of farmland has accelerated in recent quarters alongside elevated commodity prices that have boosted profit opportunities and supported broad strength in the U.S. farm economy. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City says farm finances and credit conditions have improved dramatically in recent years and interest rates on farm loans remained near historic lows. 

That’s added support to agricultural real estate markets. Looking at the year ahead, the outlook for agricultural credit conditions remains strong. Elevated commodity prices and robust support from government aid programs due to COVID-19 supported rapid improvement in farm income and credit conditions. 

Despite concerns about higher input costs and intensifying drought in some regions, markets for most major commodities remained strong, and producers are looking at sound profit opportunities in 2022.

Agricultural real estate values continued to increase at a rapid pace across farm country through the end of last year. The increase in the value of farmland has accelerated in recent quarters alongside elevated commodity prices that have boosted profit opportunities and supported broad strength in the U.S. farm economy. The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City says farm finances and credit conditions have improved dramatically in recent years and interest rates on farm loans remained near historic lows. That’s added support to agricultural real estate markets. Looking at the year ahead, the outlook for agricultural credit conditions remains strong. Elevated commodity prices and robust support from government aid programs due to COVID-19 supported rapid improvement in farm income and credit conditions. Despite concerns about higher input costs and intensifying drought in some regions, markets for most major commodities remained strong, and producers are looking at sound profit opportunities in 2022.

Farm real estate values continue to climb

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $450 million in grant funding for port-related projects through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. 

The grants can help ports expand capacity and improve the movement of goods through U.S. supply chains. 

The Department of Transportation says the effort is the largest investment in the program ever, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will invest $17 billion in ports and waterways. 

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says, “We’re proud to announce this funding to help ports improve their infrastructure— to get goods moving more efficiently and help keep costs under control for American families.” 

The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to support projects that will improve the movement of goods to, through and around ports. 

Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls upon applicants to explore ways to include projects that will improve goods movement while also strengthening resilience, reducing emissions and advancing environmental justice.

The Biden Administration Wednesday announced $450 million in grant funding for port-related projects through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. The grants can help ports expand capacity and improve the movement of goods through U.S. supply chains. The Department of Transportation says the effort is the largest investment in the program ever, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will invest $17 billion in ports and waterways. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says, “We’re proud to announce this funding to help ports improve their infrastructure— to get goods moving more efficiently and help keep costs under control for American families.” The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to support projects that will improve the movement of goods to, through and around ports. Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls upon applicants to explore ways to include projects that will improve goods movement while also strengthening resilience, reducing emissions and advancing environmental justice.

Biden Administration announces Port Infrastructure funding

Overall, food prices increased by an average of 3.9 percent in 2021 compared to 2020, the highest annual increase since 2008. 

USDA's Economic Research Service released new data Wednesday that shows food prices grew more slowly than "all items," but more quickly than all other of the "major groups" tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The Consumer Price Index for all items rose 4.7 percent in 2021. The food-away-from-home, restaurant purchases, increased 4.5 percent, compared with an increase of 3.5 percent for food-at-home - grocery stores or other purchases from food retailers. 

The highest price increases in food-at-home categories in 2021 were for beef and veal at 9.3 percent, pork at 8.6 percent, and fresh fruit 5.5 percent. Using the Consumer Price Index data, USDA researchers project overall food prices will increase between two and three percent in 2022. The Consumer Price Index for food increased 0.9 percent in January.

Overall, food prices increased by an average of 3.9 percent in 2021 compared to 2020, the highest annual increase since 2008. USDA's Economic Research Service released new data Wednesday that shows food prices grew more slowly than "all items," but more quickly than all other of the "major groups" tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Consumer Price Index for all items rose 4.7 percent in 2021. The food-away-from-home, restaurant purchases, increased 4.5 percent, compared with an increase of 3.5 percent for food-at-home - grocery stores or other purchases from food retailers. The highest price increases in food-at-home categories in 2021 were for beef and veal at 9.3 percent, pork at 8.6 percent, and fresh fruit 5.5 percent. Using the Consumer Price Index data, USDA researchers project overall food prices will increase between two and three percent in 2022. The Consumer Price Index for food increased 0.9 percent in January.

Food prices below overall inflation in 2021

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced another confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI. 

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the HPAI outbreak in a commercial poultry flock in New Castle County, Delaware. APHIS and state officials have quarantined the flock and will depopulate the birds. 

The announcement follows the previous confirmation of HPAI in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine and New York late last week. 

Other confirmed HPAI outbreaks include sites in Kentucky, Virginia, Indiana, and North and South Carolina. Earlier this month, APHIS expanded wild bird surveillance for avian influenza to include the Mississippi and Central Flyways. 

USDA says anyone involved with poultry should review their biosecurity plan and enhance their biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their birds. In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state and federal officials.

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced another confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the HPAI outbreak in a commercial poultry flock in New Castle County, Delaware. APHIS and state officials have quarantined the flock and will depopulate the birds. The announcement follows the previous confirmation of HPAI in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine and New York late last week. Other confirmed HPAI outbreaks include sites in Kentucky, Virginia, Indiana, and North and South Carolina. Earlier this month, APHIS expanded wild bird surveillance for avian influenza to include the Mississippi and Central Flyways. USDA says anyone involved with poultry should review their biosecurity plan and enhance their biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their birds. In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state and federal officials.

HPAI found in commercial poultry flock in Delaware

The Environmental Protection Agency agreed to file a notice in the Federal Register seeking comment on a proposed judicial consent decree that would require EPA to finalize the 2021 and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligations. 

The RVO’s are the subject of pending rulemaking due no later than June 3, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The announcement is part of settlement discussions with Growth Energy, which filed multiple notices of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court in response to the agency’s extended delay in issuing the RVOs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Growth Energy contends the delays are a direct violation of the deadlines established by Congress for the Renewable Fuel Standard program.&nbsp; 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This agreement is a significant milestone for the biofuels industry and reflects Growth Energy’s persistent efforts to hold EPA accountable.” 

The EPA Federal Register notice scheduled for publication Wednesday provides 30 days for public comment from the date of publication.

The Environmental Protection Agency agreed to file a notice in the Federal Register seeking comment on a proposed judicial consent decree that would require EPA to finalize the 2021 and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligations. The RVO’s are the subject of pending rulemaking due no later than June 3, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The announcement is part of settlement discussions with Growth Energy, which filed multiple notices of intent to sue and a complaint in federal district court in response to the agency’s extended delay in issuing the RVOs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Growth Energy contends the delays are a direct violation of the deadlines established by Congress for the Renewable Fuel Standard program.&nbsp; Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This agreement is a significant milestone for the biofuels industry and reflects Growth Energy’s persistent efforts to hold EPA accountable.” The EPA Federal Register notice scheduled for publication Wednesday provides 30 days for public comment from the date of publication.

Growth Energy, EPA reach settlement on deadline for issuing 2021, 2022 RVO

In 2021, the U.S. ethanol industry “recovered substantially” from pandemic conditions, with ethanol and gasoline use approaching pre-COVID-19 levels in the second half of the year. 

A study on the industry by ABF Economics for the Renewable Fuels Association was released this week. 

With higher demand and value, ethanol’s contribution to U.S. gross domestic product in 2021 was the second-highest ever. 

In 2021, more than 73,000 U.S. jobs were directly associated with the ethanol industry, which supported an additional 334,200 indirect and induced jobs across all sectors of the economy. The industry created $28.7 billion in household income and contributed just over $52 billion to gross domestic product. 

Compared to 2020, this represented a 55 percent increase in income generated and a 50 percent increase in the contribution to GDP. 

The new report also shows that the ethanol industry spent nearly $38 billion on raw materials and goods and services to produce ethanol during 2021, with corn purchases alone accounting for more than $30 billion.

In 2021, the U.S. ethanol industry “recovered substantially” from pandemic conditions, with ethanol and gasoline use approaching pre-COVID-19 levels in the second half of the year. A study on the industry by ABF Economics for the Renewable Fuels Association was released this week. With higher demand and value, ethanol’s contribution to U.S. gross domestic product in 2021 was the second-highest ever. In 2021, more than 73,000 U.S. jobs were directly associated with the ethanol industry, which supported an additional 334,200 indirect and induced jobs across all sectors of the economy. The industry created $28.7 billion in household income and contributed just over $52 billion to gross domestic product. Compared to 2020, this represented a 55 percent increase in income generated and a 50 percent increase in the contribution to GDP. The new report also shows that the ethanol industry spent nearly $38 billion on raw materials and goods and services to produce ethanol during 2021, with corn purchases alone accounting for more than $30 billion.

Study: Ethanol industry strongly rebounded in 2021

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine. 

Samples from the flock were tested at the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. 

APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials in Maine on a joint incident response. 

State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maine confirmation is the latest in several confirmed cases of HPAI in the United States. 

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. Additional information on biosecurity for non-commercial backyard flocks can be found at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in a non-commercial backyard flock in Maine. Samples from the flock were tested at the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center, part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. APHIS is working closely with state animal health officials in Maine on a joint incident response. State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maine confirmation is the latest in several confirmed cases of HPAI in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern. Additional information on biosecurity for non-commercial backyard flocks can be found at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

USDA finds Avian Influenza in Maine

USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the agency is extending the application deadline for funding under the ReConnect Program to March 9. 

The funds are intended to expand high-speed internet access to millions of people across rural America. 

“Today’s extension of the ReConnect Program deadline will help ensure that all applicants have the time they need to secure this critical funding,” Torres Small says. 

“I encourage all eligible parties to apply for this assistance.”&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA is making $200 million available in ReConnect Program loans, $250 million in loan/grant combinations, $350 million in grants with a 25 percent matching requirement, and $350 million in grants with no matching requirements for tribes and projects in socially vulnerable communities. 

In the coming months, USDA plans to begin making available an additional $2 billion in rural broadband funding allocated to USDA by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary Xochitl Torres Small says the agency is extending the application deadline for funding under the ReConnect Program to March 9. The funds are intended to expand high-speed internet access to millions of people across rural America. “Today’s extension of the ReConnect Program deadline will help ensure that all applicants have the time they need to secure this critical funding,” Torres Small says. “I encourage all eligible parties to apply for this assistance.”&nbsp;&nbsp;USDA is making $200 million available in ReConnect Program loans, $250 million in loan/grant combinations, $350 million in grants with a 25 percent matching requirement, and $350 million in grants with no matching requirements for tribes and projects in socially vulnerable communities. In the coming months, USDA plans to begin making available an additional $2 billion in rural broadband funding allocated to USDA by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

USDA extends application deadline for ReConnect Program

Bayer recently announced it’s moving ahead on a short-stature corn project which will see test plantings on selected farmer fields in 2023. 

DTN says short-stature hybrids stand about a third to half the height of standard corn hybrids with an ear that sets about knee-high. 

The hybrids initially debuted in Mexico, and the company is now advancing the concept through their U.S. pipeline in three separate versions, which are traditional breeding, genetically engineered, and gene-edited. 

The company is making plans for U.S. farmers to get a look at the product in 2023 as Bayer works with a limited number of farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;A broad commercial rollout is set for 2024. 

The idea behind creating the hybrids is plants that ideally use fewer resources and are easier to negotiate when in-crop applications of inputs are necessary. Shrinking the corn plant should improve stability and help it withstand extreme weather like high winds.

Bayer recently announced it’s moving ahead on a short-stature corn project which will see test plantings on selected farmer fields in 2023. DTN says short-stature hybrids stand about a third to half the height of standard corn hybrids with an ear that sets about knee-high. The hybrids initially debuted in Mexico, and the company is now advancing the concept through their U.S. pipeline in three separate versions, which are traditional breeding, genetically engineered, and gene-edited. The company is making plans for U.S. farmers to get a look at the product in 2023 as Bayer works with a limited number of farmers.&nbsp;&nbsp;A broad commercial rollout is set for 2024. The idea behind creating the hybrids is plants that ideally use fewer resources and are easier to negotiate when in-crop applications of inputs are necessary. Shrinking the corn plant should improve stability and help it withstand extreme weather like high winds.

Bayer moving forward on short-corn system

The Centers for Disease Control is expressing gratitude to the nation’s Cooperative Extension Service for helping address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in rural America. 

Extension educators have worked to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19. 

“Rural America continues to get hit hard by COVID, and the lives of families and communities continue to feel the impacts,” says Dr. Carrie Castille, director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. 

“Because our communities are faced with making important decisions about vaccinations, having a trusted, independent community agent to aid in decision making is essential.” Cooperative Extension agents and educators are well placed to have that discussion and provide objective educational information. 

Through an interagency agreement with the CDC and NIFA, Cooperative Extension units at land-grant universities across the nation received funding to launch the Cooperative Extension Immunization Teaching and Engagement initiative to address health disparities among rural and underserved communities.

The Centers for Disease Control is expressing gratitude to the nation’s Cooperative Extension Service for helping address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in rural America. Extension educators have worked to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19. “Rural America continues to get hit hard by COVID, and the lives of families and communities continue to feel the impacts,” says Dr. Carrie Castille, director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “Because our communities are faced with making important decisions about vaccinations, having a trusted, independent community agent to aid in decision making is essential.” Cooperative Extension agents and educators are well placed to have that discussion and provide objective educational information. Through an interagency agreement with the CDC and NIFA, Cooperative Extension units at land-grant universities across the nation received funding to launch the Cooperative Extension Immunization Teaching and Engagement initiative to address health disparities among rural and underserved communities.

CDC says Extension Service helping rural America get vaccinated

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the results of the 2021 Hemp Acreage and Production Survey in the agency’s National Hemp Report. 

Planted area for industrial hemp grown in the open for all uses in the U.S. totaled 54,150 acres. 

The area harvested for all utilizations totaled 33,480 acres, and the value of U.S. hemp grown in the open totaled $712 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The value of hemp production grown under protection was worth $112 million. 

The area grown under protection totaled 15.6 million square feet. “The data will help guide USDA in supporting domestic hemp production and will help producers make decisions on their operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. 

“The survey results may also impact policy decisions about the hemp industry.” Floral hemp production was estimated at 19.7 million pounds, with the average yield at 1,235 pounds per acre. Hemp grown for grain totaled 4.37 million pounds, with the average yield coming in at 530 pounds per acre.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the results of the 2021 Hemp Acreage and Production Survey in the agency’s National Hemp Report. Planted area for industrial hemp grown in the open for all uses in the U.S. totaled 54,150 acres. The area harvested for all utilizations totaled 33,480 acres, and the value of U.S. hemp grown in the open totaled $712 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;The value of hemp production grown under protection was worth $112 million. The area grown under protection totaled 15.6 million square feet. “The data will help guide USDA in supporting domestic hemp production and will help producers make decisions on their operations,” says NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “The survey results may also impact policy decisions about the hemp industry.” Floral hemp production was estimated at 19.7 million pounds, with the average yield at 1,235 pounds per acre. Hemp grown for grain totaled 4.37 million pounds, with the average yield coming in at 530 pounds per acre.

2021 U.S. Hemp production worth $824 million

Traders from India signed contracts to import a record 100,000 tons of soy oil from the U.S. Reuters says India made the buy because of limited supplies from drought-hit South America during a time when the price of rival palm oil is at record-high levels. 

The increased purchases from the U.S. are expected to support U.S. soy oil prices which are 20 percent higher this year and close to their highest point in ten years. 

India is the world’s biggest edible oil importer and usually buys from Argentina and Brazil. Lower soybean output in those two countries forced India to turn to the U.S. 

“Buyers in India have bought U.S. soy oil vessels,” says the head of a global trading firm in India who wished to remain anonymous because of company policy. “Prices were attractive, and there weren’t enough supplies in South America. Buying another two vessels is possible in the short term.”

Traders from India signed contracts to import a record 100,000 tons of soy oil from the U.S. Reuters says India made the buy because of limited supplies from drought-hit South America during a time when the price of rival palm oil is at record-high levels. The increased purchases from the U.S. are expected to support U.S. soy oil prices which are 20 percent higher this year and close to their highest point in ten years. India is the world’s biggest edible oil importer and usually buys from Argentina and Brazil. Lower soybean output in those two countries forced India to turn to the U.S. “Buyers in India have bought U.S. soy oil vessels,” says the head of a global trading firm in India who wished to remain anonymous because of company policy. “Prices were attractive, and there weren’t enough supplies in South America. Buying another two vessels is possible in the short term.”