| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 16, 2025 |

USDA Publishes Rule on Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops The USDA announced the publication of an interim rule on Technical Guidelines for Climate-Smart Agriculture Crops Used as Biofuel Feedstocks. It establishes guidelines for quantifying, reporting, and verifying the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of biofuel feedstock commodity crops grown in the U.S. The rule covers three feedstocks, including soy, corn, and sorghum. It also covers climate-smart practices that could reduce GHG emissions or sequester carbon, including reduced till and no-till, cover cropping, and nutrient management practices like using nitrification inhibitors. The interim rule also allows for the adoption of CSA practices both individually and in combination. This means farmers would have the flexibility to adopt the CSA practices that make sense for their operation while still being able to produce feedstocks with reduced carbon intensities under the rule. USDA is requesting public comment on the interim rule to help inform future revisions or additions. Go to regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** Farm Action Applauds FTC Right to Repair Lawsuit Farm Action reacted to the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit against John Deere over the right to repair. The Commission alleges John Deere is illegally driving up costs by forcing farmers to repair their equipment at authorized dealers. Farm Action’s Chief Strategy Officer Joe Maxwell says they applaud the FTC for taking this bold action to bring justice to farmers who have been stripped of the right to repair their own equipment. “That robs them of time and money as a result,” Maxwell says. “By withholding software information to diagnose and repair equipment, manufacturers are forcing farmers to often face long wait times and sometimes drive hundreds of miles to find an authorized dealer.” The long drives or wait times jeopardize hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential yields. Farm Action has led a nationwide Right to Repair campaign demanding that farmers are given the right to repair their own equipment. *********************************************************************************** Groups React to Packers and Stockyard Act Revision American agriculture groups reacted to the final USDA poultry tournament rule under the Packers and Stockyards Act. “AFBF has long advocated for more stability for farmers who raise poultry under the tournament system,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We’ve long advocated for more stability in the sector and increased transparency in how farmers are paid.” The Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action is also pleased with the new rule. “We applaud USDA’s finalization of regulations like this that are long overdue,” says Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets. “We call on President Trump to keep these regulations intact.” The Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association said in a release that they applaud USDA for finalizing their third rule reform. With so much outside of the control of contract poultry growers, it makes common sense to not base so much of their compensation on the tournament system. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Publishes Corn Competitiveness Report The National Corn Growers Association published the 2025 Corn Competitiveness Report. It’s a roadmap for the Trump Administration and Congress to bolster the economic outlook for farmers and rural America. The report comes as corn growers are forecasted to face a third year of negative returns in 2025. “The U.S. is a corn-producing superpower, growing about one-third of the world’s corn and doing so more sustainably than anywhere else on Earth,” the report says. According to the report, the U.S. can “turbocharge” American competitiveness in several ways, including increasing global market access for U.S. corn, expanding the use of U.S. corn in ethanol, and strengthening farm risk management programs. The report provides specific examples of the ways how the U.S. can achieve these targets, including developing new foreign markets, passing legislation that will expand consumer access to higher ethanol blends, and extending the estate tax exemptions farmers depend on. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agriculture Dominated by Family Farms In 2023, roughly 86 percent of all farms were small family farms. A USDA report says these farms have a gross cash income below $350,000 and operate on 41 percent of all U.S. agricultural land. The family farms produced 17 percent of the total value of U.S. agricultural production. Large-scale family farms, those with gross cash income above $1 million, represented four percent of farms and accounted for 31 percent of agricultural land and 48 percent of the total value of agricultural production in 2023. Midsized family farms, with income between $350,000 and $999,999, represented six percent of farms and accounted for 18 percent of agricultural land and 18 percent of the total value in agricultural production. In total, family farms accounted for about 96 percent of total farms, 90 percent of agricultural land, and 83 percent of the total production value in 2023. The remaining four percent are non-family farms. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Leads Cage Free Egg Transition Compassion in World Farming U.S. has released its latest Egg Track Report, which highlights the evolving landscape of higher-welfare egg production in North America. While the U.S. continues to lead at about 40 percent of egg-laying hens now in cage-free systems, Canada trails behind, with over 81 percent still confined in cages. Compassion says these cages are small wire structures that barely allow hens to spread their wings or engage in natural behaviors like wing flapping, perching, or dustbathing. This disparity underscores both the progress made and the challenges that remain in the transition toward a cage-free future. “North America’s egg producers are at the forefront of transforming the global egg market,” says Julia Johnson, U.S. Head of Food Business at Compassion in World Farming. The organization says cage-free is gaining momentum as the U.S. has seen steady growth in cage-free systems that now cover 124.8 million laying hens.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 16, 2025 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Crop Update at around 12 p.m. CST ERS Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook -- Jan 2025 at 2 p.m. CST Weekly Slaughter Report at 2 p.m. CST Weather Light snow showers will exit the eastern Midwest throughout the day, but a system will move through the Canadian Prairies, providing a band of moderate to heavy snow showers. By Friday, some leftover light snow showers from the Canadian Prairies system will graze the Northern Plains, putting down less than one inch of snow.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 15, 2025 |

USDA Finalizes Third New Packers and Stockyards Regulation Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the third installment in a series of regulatory reforms under the Packers and Stockyards Act. That, in combination with other updates, is intended to level the playing field for farmers raising chickens, turkeys, hogs, cattle, and sheep under contract or for sale to meat and poultry processing companies. The newest rule gives chicken farmers better insight into companies’ payment rates for their birds, will institute stability and fairness in what is commonly known as the “tournament system,” will provide farmers with key information on capital improvements the companies require farmers to make in order to keep or renew contracts and give farmers stronger leverage when companies don’t stick to the rules. “We’ve heard many stories of farmers who lost their life savings or went bankrupt because of an unfair system they entered into when they agreed to raise animals for a meat conglomerate,” Vilsack said. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Introduces the Pork Leadership Institute Class of 2025 The National Pork Producers Council and the National Pork Board are excited to announce the Class of 2025 for the Pork Leadership Institute. It’s a premier program dedicated to equipping pork producers with the knowledge and skills to lead the industry into the future. This year, 17 people from across the country were selected to join the program, and they represent a diverse group of leaders poised to drive innovation and advocacy within the pork sector. “As we step into 2025, ensuring the long-term success of America’s pork producers remains our top priority,” says Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO. “These individuals will serve as steadfast voices on the issues that matter most, including navigating legislative challenges to securing the freedom to operate.” The yearlong program is a comprehensive leadership development initiative featuring five intensive sessions that cover key areas of industry knowledge and advocacy. More information is available at nppc.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces 2025 Safety-Net Program Enrollment Periods The USDA announced the 2025 enrollment periods for key safety-net programs, including Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage, as well as Dairy Margin Coverage. Producers can submit applications to USDA’s Farm Service Agency for ARC and PLC for the 2025 crop year from January 21 to April 15. DMC applications for the 2025 coverage year can be submitted from January 29 to March 31. “Our safety-net programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers, so don’t delay enrollment,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA Administrator. “Even if you aren’t changing your program election for 2025, you still need to sign a contract to enroll.” He also says at 15 cents per hundredweight for $9.50 coverage, risk protection through Dairy Margin Coverage is a relatively inexpensive investment in a true sense of security and peace of mind. For more information, go to your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Foreign Ownership of U.S. Ag Land Increases Between 2022-2023 The latest report on foreign ownership of U.S. ag land shows that 45.85 million acres of U.S. farmland were held by foreign investors in 2023. That represents 3.61 percent of total privately-held agricultural land in the U.S. This marks a 1.58-million-acre, or 3.6 percent, increase from 2022 and a five-million-acre (12.2 percent) rise since the American Farm Bureau’s last analysis in 2021. Canadian investors own the largest portion of foreign-held U.S. ag land with 33.5 percent, or 15.35 million acres of the total and 1.21 percent of all U.S. ag land. Following Canada, investors from the Netherlands, Italy, the U.K., and Germany round out the top five in that category. By state, Texas has the largest quantity of foreign-held U.S. agricultural land at 5.7 million acres, making up 3.6 percent of the state’s 1.58 million acres of privately-held agricultural land. Maine has the second-largest quantity at 3.5 million acres. *********************************************************************************** SCN Continuing Spread Renews Focus on the Threat Researchers have been updating the map of known soybean cyst nematode distribution regularly since 2000, and with each update, the threat spreads. The latest update, spearheaded by Greg Tylka, a nematologist from Iowa State University, reveals 31 counties in ten states reporting SCN for the first time between 2020 and 2023. In Canada, ten rural municipalities in Quebec and three counties across Manitoba and Ontario reported SCN for the first time during that three-year span. In the U.S., SCN is in every county across Illinois and Iowa, the top two soybean-producing states. Just because an area doesn’t report any SCN doesn’t mean fields are free from infestation. “Fields may be infested for many years before the infestations are discovered,” Tylka added. The SCN Coalition encourages producers to develop a plan that includes testing their fields to know the numbers, rotating resistant varieties, rotating to non-host crops, and using a nematode-protectant seed treatment. *********************************************************************************** Corn Stocks Down While Soybean and Wheat Supplies Are Higher Corn stored in all positions on December 1, 2024, totaled 12.1 billion bushels, down one percent from the same time last year. Of the total, 7.66 billion bushels are stored on farms, down two percent from the previous year. Off-farm stocks are at 4.41 billion bushels, two percent higher than the prior year. Soybeans in all positions on December 1, 2024, totaled 3.1 billion bushels, three percent above December 1, 2023. On-farm stocks were at 1.54 billion bushels, up six percent. Off-farm stocks were 1.56 billion, one percent higher than the previous December. All wheat stored in all positions on December 1, 2024, was at 1.57 billion bushels, 10 percent above the previous year. On-farm stocks were at 467 million bushels, up 16 percent over December 2023. Off-farm stocks, at 1.1 billion bushels, were up eight percent from the previous year. All three commodities had higher disappearance levels than the prior year.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 15, 2025 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather It's an overall quiet day on Wednesday, though some lake-effect snow is still hanging on in the Great Lakes. A small system will move through southern Canada and bring more light snow to the Great Lakes Wednesday and especially Wednesday night. It will also bring in some warmer air for the next couple of days.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 14, 2025 |

Treasury Department Releases Partial 45Z Guidance The government released short-term guidance on accessing clean fuel tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. However, the announcement fell short of finalizing the program’s details. Farm Policy News says biofuel groups were hoping for more clarity on the tax credits for fuels that help combat climate change. The groups are hopeful that more complete guidance will provide a pathway for corn-based ethanol to expand its market as a sustainable aviation fuel feedstock. The Treasury Department says it provides further details on how to ensure fuels meet certain emissions-reductions criteria to access the subsidy and adds that a crucial climate model upon which the program relies will be available in the future. Reuters says the administration intends to release the program’s climate model this week, but it will not include adjustments for so-called climate-smart agricultural practices like no-till farming, which ethanol hoped it could use to meet the lifecycle emissions requirements. *********************************************************************************** Reaction to 45Z Tax Credit Guidance U.S. agriculture groups waiting for the Treasury Department’s guidance on accessing the 45Z Tax Credit had mixed reactions to the announcement last Friday. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says the long overdue guidance is far from complete. “It still lacks critical details that are needed to help ensure that American biofuel producers and farmers can lead the world in clean fuel production,” she said. Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association says, “The credit must allow for the inclusion of efficient farming practices, recognition of additional feedstocks and ethanol production technologies, and the ability for producers to secure their own carbon intensity values.” The National Corn Growers Association says the announcement was a “missed opportunity for growers.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America says they look forward to working with members to evaluate the overdue guidance and forthcoming GREET model, which provides necessary carbon intensity scores for fuel producers. *********************************************************************************** 2024 Tractor and Combine Sales Close 2024 in a Slump According to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, sales of agricultural tractors and combines fell in the United States during December 2024 compared to the previous year. U.S. sales of agricultural tractors fell 11.3 percent, while combine sales fell 26.4 percent in December 2024 compared to December 2023. “December’s sales of ag tractors and combines follow patterns we saw throughout 2024, which reflects softness in the market,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “While the year has been marked by high interest rates and uncertainty throughout the overall ag economy, AEM is looking forward to the potential in 2025 and will continue to advocate for policies focused on positively impacting the industry.” Canada’s sales of ag tractors dropped 3.2 percent, while combines fell 37.3 percent in December when compared to the previous year. The biggest December drop was in 100-plus horsepower tractors, down 27 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Welcomes Line Speed Study Results The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is extending the New Swine Inspection System increased line speed trials through May 15, 2025. The National Pork Producers Council called it a “win for efficiency” in feeding a growing population and alleviating supply issues. “Pork producers appreciate USDA’s thoughtful and thorough approach to maintaining increased packing capacity, giving us more opportunities to safely and more efficiently deliver our products to consumers,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “As expected after more than three years of operating at increased line speeds, FSIS has confirmed that increased line speeds are not a leading factor in worker safety.” After completing a months-long study at six pork processing plants, line speeds were not the leading factor in worker musculoskeletal disorder risks. Without the increase in line speeds and the resulting decrease in packing capacity, some producers could have seen losses of $10 a head in early 2024. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for CattleCon 2025 While CattleCon 2025 is just around the corner, February 4-6 in San Antonio, Texas, it isn’t too late to register. Whether flying or driving, make plans to join thousands of cattlemen and women for the largest cattle industry event in the country. Among the schedule highlights, the Opening Session will include speaker Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, a decorated F-16 fighter pilot, professional golfer, philanthropist, and best-selling author. Rooney says he’s called to “inspire people to help people.” Wednesday’s schedule begins with celebrating the Beef Quality Assurance Award winners. The special general sessions will be impactful for those looking to transition their businesses to the next generation or new ownership. The final day starts with CattleFax conducting its U.S. Global Protein and Grain Outlook session. Throughout CattleCon, the 32nd annual Cattlemen’s College includes educational sessions with industry leaders tackling a number of innovative topics. Register in advance at convention.ncba.org or in person on-site. *********************************************************************************** Autonomous Equipment Use to Grow 12 Percent The autonomous harvester market size is expected to record a 12 percent annual growth rate between 2024 and 2032. Global Market Insights says the rise will be fueled by a surge in product launches and the melding of advanced technologies with farm management systems. Companies are producing new autonomous harvesting solutions, embedding state-of-the-art sensors, machine learning, and real-time data analytics. By seamlessly integrating with farm management systems, autonomous harvesters are enhancing crop health monitoring, optimizing harvest schedules, and streamlining resource management. The autonomous harvester industry is segmented by product, level of automation, technology, crop type, and region. The market share from the remote-controlled level of automation segment is expected to witness substantial growth through 2032. The surge is attributed to the rising demand for adaptable harvesters across diverse crops. In terms of crop type, the autonomous harvester market value from the fruits and vegetables segment will generate notable revenue from 2024-2032.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 14, 2025 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Fed Beige Book at 1 p.m. CST Weather A little disturbance and some lake-effect snow will continue in the Midwest on Tuesday. Most other areas of the country will be dry. It is cold for most areas, though some warmer air in the High Plains is ready to move eastward and replace it for a couple of days later this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 13, 2025 |

Markets Rally on Friday’s USDA Production Estimates USDA released the combined World Agricultural Supply and Demond Estimates report along with its final Crop Production estimates for 2024 on Friday, and the market was quick to react. Corn futures soared over 15 cents to the highest levels since mid-June and soybean futures jumped to two-month highs. USDA slashed corn yield estimates by 3.8 bushels per acre (bpa) to 179.3 bpa. That put analysts on their heels after offering an average trade guess of 182.7 bpa. That shoves total production estimates back below 15 billion bushels, with a new projection of 14.867 billion bushels. As with corn, USDA levied unexpected cuts to soybean yield and production estimates. The average yield eroded to 50.7 bpa, versus the average trade guess of 51.6 bpa. Production stumbled from 4.56 billion bushels in December down to 4.36 billion bushels. USDA’s new outlook for wheat noted “slightly larger supplies and domestic use, unchanged exports, and marginally higher ending stocks.” ****************************************************************************** Cal-Maine Reports Higher Profits from Lower Egg Supplies Cal-Maine Foods, the largest producer of eggs in the U.S., said strong consumer demand and supply constraints from the ongoing bird flu outbreak helped push up quarterly net sales by 82% over the previous year. Sales of conventional and specialty eggs both increased in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, according to Cal-Maine. Higher prices and lower feed costs also raised profits, the company said. Egg prices continue to break records with the ongoing spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Commercial producers have reported more deadly outbreaks that have forced them to cull flocks to contain the spread. Bird flu outbreaks and facility fires in 2024 resulted in the loss of 39.9 million commercial table egg layers in 12 states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Around 43% of losses occurred during the last two months of 2024, with one-third occurring in the peak demand period of December. ****************************************************************************** Trump Turning Attention to Panama Canal President-elect Donald Trump continues to have his eyes on Canada, Greenland and the Panama Canal, as he reiterated in a press conference Tuesday. Asked if he would rule out the use of military force when looking at expansion, Trump said he couldn't commit to that. Instead, he emphasized the importance of the Panama Canal, saying, "Look, the Panama Canal is vital to our country, it's being operated by China, China. And we gave the Panama Canal to Panama, we didn't give it to China." Responding to Trump, Panamanian officials said the canal's sovereignty is non-negotiable. Overall, more than 70% of all cargo passing through the Panama Canal is coming from U.S. ports or heading to U.S. ports. At least $8.9 billion worth of agricultural products were shipped out of the Mississippi River ports through the canal in 2023. In a typical year, about 600 million bushels (mb) of U.S. soybeans and 450 mb of corn move through the Panama Canal. ****************************************************************************** 2025 Minnesota Beginning Farmer Tax Credit Applications Open The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Rural Finance Authority is now accepting applications for the 2025 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit. This annual program is available to landlords and asset owners who rent or sell farmland, equipment, livestock, and other agricultural assets to beginning farmers. $4 million in funding has been made available for the 2025 Beginning Farmer Tax Credit program. Credits are funded on a first-come, first-serve basis, and applying early in the year to beat the application deadlines is heavily encouraged. Both the asset owners and beginning farmers must submit applications with lease and/or sale documentation to qualify for funding and hold their place in line. Applications can be made before sales close, if needed. For more information on the tax credits and application materials visit the https://www.mda.state.mn.us/bftc. Questions may be directed to Jenny Heck at jenny.heck@state.mn.us or (651) 201-6316. ****************************************************************************** Will $10 Billion in Economic Payments Offset Farm Income Losses? Researchers are still projecting negative returns for grain producers even after assistance from Washington, highlighting the extent of the downturn in the agricultural industry. U.S. farmers and ranchers have access to $10 billion in economic aid as part of the farm bill extension passed at the end of 2024 to offset broad income declines. However, a new study from the University of Illinois says that the one-time payments likely won’t be enough to reverse deep profit losses for grain producers. While aid significantly reduces projected losses for 2024 many farmers will still see negative returns even after receiving the assistance, according to research estimates. Low commodity prices and high production costs have pressured farm margins and contributed to a widespread downturn in the agricultural economy. With Congress still divided on a farm bill, many producers demanded that an extension include economic aid to improve balance sheets and position themselves to secure loans. ****************************************************************************** Deere Lays Off 75 Workers at Iowa Tractor Plant John Deer has laid off 75 workers at a manufacturing facility in Iowa. The job cuts are some of the first in 2025 after the company reduced its workforce by the thousands last year in response to slowing demand. Deere & Co. is laying off dozens of workers at a production plant in Ottumwa, Iowa, after struggling with tractor and equipment sales in recent months. Approximately 75 workers, or 13% of the plant’s workforce, will lose their jobs effective February 7, according to a recent WARN notice. The Ottumwa, Iowa plant just reopened after closing for the month of December due to sluggish demand for hay and forage equipment, the Des Moines Register reported. To remain globally competitive, Deer must continue making workforce adjustments as needed to our manufacturing footprint, according to a Deere spokesperson.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 13, 2025 |

Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Monthly U.S. Federal Budget at 1 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather Another burst of colder air has moved into the northern tier of the country on Monday behind a weekend system that produced scattered snow. Some showers are falling across the Gulf Coast while lake-effect snow continues for the Great Lakes. A little disturbance is also moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains with some light snow for Monday as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 10, 2025 |

New Contract Agreement Means no East or Gulf Coast Port Strike The International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance announced an agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement heads off the possibility of a port strike on the East and Gulf Coast ports. “We’re pleased with the tentative agreement, subject to ratification, which averts a work stoppage on January 15,” the two organizations said in a joint statement. “This agreement protects ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernizing the ports.” The two sides have agreed to continue operating under the current contract until the ILA can meet with its full Wage Scale Committee and schedule a ratification vote for its members. The U.S. Maritime Alliance membership also has to ratify the agreement. “The adoption of automation and technology was the most contentious issue between the two parties,” says Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. “We’re pleased with the agreement.” *********************************************************************************** Farmers May Shift Grain Acreage in 2025 Early indications are that U.S. farmers will increase planted grain acres this year despite continuing low prices. That’s according to a survey done by Farm Futures magazine. In the survey conducted in December, farmers in major corn-producing states seem swayed by an ongoing corn rally. However, more than half of the responding farmers plan no change in their crop mix. “In light of the corn market’s rally to six-month highs in late 2024 and early 2025, it makes sense that many farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and other top-producing states plan to ramp up their corn planting this year,” says Senior Editor Bruce Blythe. One factor that could change those plans is the soybean future prices. “A key question is whether soybean acres increase or decrease, given the outlook for heavy global supplies and weak prices,” Blythe said. Farmers also voiced continuing concerns about getting a 2025 Farm Bill in place. *********************************************************************************** Climate-Smart Alliance Enrolls 1,300 farms The Alliance to Advance Climate-Smart Agriculture at Virginia Tech enrolled over 1,300 farms representing more than 202,000 acres. It’s the first year of a landmark project that incentivizes agricultural producers in four states to adopt climate-smart practices. The project is a three-year national pilot program that aims to enroll 4,500 producers representing over 470,000 acres of farmland in Arkansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Virginia. At least 40 percent of the program’s participants are categorized by USDA as underserved farmers. Producers on farms of all sizes and commodities receive $100 an acre or animal unit to implement sustainable practices that can boost crop yields, build climate resistance, and protect soil, water, and air quality. “This program not only provides farmers with the financial support they need to transition to climate-smart practices but also sets a powerful precedent for what’s possible on a national scale,” says Tom Thompson, principal investigator on the project. *********************************************************************************** Disaster Assistance Application Deadline Approaching The USDA’s Farm Service Agency is reminding producers, including dairy producers impacted by H5N1, that the deadline to apply for assistance through the ELAP Program is January 30. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program funds are for losses due to specific adverse conditions that occurred in 2024. “The ELAP program provides an important financial safety net, helping our producers rebound from weather and disease impacts that are out of their control and not part of their operation’s ordinary risk profile,” says Zach Ducheneaux, FSA administrator. “These events threaten producers’ economic viability, so it’s important that USDA provide support.” ELAP provides relief to eligible producers to assist with losses that aren’t covered by other FSA disaster programs. Producers wanting to apply for ELAP assistance for calendar year 2024 should contact the FSA at their nearest USDA Service Center by January 30. To find a Service Center, visit farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** Groups Denounce Grizzly Bear Listing as Endangered Species The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council denounced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s revised grizzly bear listing. They also pushed back against the agency rejecting state petitions to delist grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act in the Northern Continental Divide and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems. “This proposed rule and rejected delisting petitions do nothing other than move the goalposts for species recovery and deny sound science,” says NCBA Director of Government Affairs Garrett Edmonds. “Combining multiple distinct ecosystems into one giant population segment for a solitary apex predator further muddies the waters of what a species recovery looks like and only makes it harder for recovered species to be delisted in the future.” He also says by creating this brand-new barrier to recovery, the Biden administration is further weaponizing the Endangered Species Act and aiming it at rural communities on their way out the door. *********************************************************************************** U.S. to Rebuild Bird Flu Vaccine Stockpile The USDA will begin rebuilding its bird flu vaccine stockpile to make it match the current strain of the virus running through commercial flocks and wild birds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the outbreak started in 2022 and has killed over 130 million birds, affecting commercial, backyard, and wild birds in all 50 states. In a press release, USDA says the U.S. had built poultry vaccine stocks after the last major outbreak in 2014-2015. Bird flu is also affecting U.S. dairy cattle herds and infected almost 70 people. Most of the exposed humans are farm workers who’ve been directly exposed to sick cattle or poultry. Egg and turkey farm groups have been calling for a vaccine, citing the severe economic toll it has taken on farmers after wiping out their flocks. In December, USDA reported infected dairy herds in California and Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 10, 2025 |

Friday Watch List Markets FAS Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Unemployment and wage data at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA January WASDE and Crop Production Reports at 11 a.m. CST USDA Quarterly Grain Stocks at 11 a.m. CST USDA Winter Wheat and Canola Seedings at 11 a.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A storm system is leaving the Plains and heading through the eastern half of the country on Friday. The greatest impact is in the Mid-South where heavy snow is falling along with some freezing rain.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 9, 2025 |

Thursday Watch List Markets NASS Weekly Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Note that agricultural futures will close at 12:15 p.m. CST Thursday in recognition of the National Day of Mourning for President Carter Weather The long-awaited storm system for this week is finally moving out into the Southern Plains on Thursday morning with mixed precipitation spreading through Texas and into Oklahoma. This will continue to build throughout the day, being heavy along the Red River into Arkansas. A mix of rain, freezing rain, and heavy snow are in the forecast here. The storm will continue with its largest impact through the Mid-South for Friday.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 9, 2025 |

Impact of Economic Assistance Payments The American Relief Act of 2025 provides $31 billion in ad hoc disaster assistance for farmers. Farmdoc Daily says $20.78 billion will help farmers who suffered natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The USDA hasn’t announced how the aid will be distributed. The ARA also had another $10 billion in economic assistance payments that the Farm Service Agency will distribute early this year. Many farmers and lenders welcome the assistance, which can make planning and loan renewal easier for the upcoming growing season. But Farmdoc points out there will be unintended consequences from federal aid. The aid will likely slow the cost adjustments that need to occur given the current low commodity price levels. The assistance may also make landowners less inclined to lower their cash rents. Also, input suppliers may see reduced pressures to lower the cost of inputs. Farmdoc’s 2025 projections continue to show low returns this year. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Causes First Human Death A 65-year-old with underlying medical conditions has succumbed to avian influenza, the first human death from bird flu in the United States. Food Safety News says the patient was exposed to non-commercial backyard flocks and wild birds. Bird flu outbreaks have been reported in multiple states since April 2024 and mainly caused mild illnesses among some patients. The Centers for Disease Control says there have been 66 human cases of bird flu in the U.S., with most being mild. H5N1 is widespread in birds worldwide, causing outbreaks in U.S. poultry and dairy cows. While the current public health risk is still low, the CDC is overseeing the situation and working with states to monitor people with animal exposure. The CDC is also using its flu surveillance systems to monitor for H5N1 activity in people. Bird flu infections in humans are usually rare and don’t typically spread from person to person. *********************************************************************************** Edge Dairy Cooperative Shares Legislative Priorities Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative announced its priorities for the next congressional session. “At Edge, we constantly strive to stay on the forefront of issues impacting our farmer members,” says Karen Gefvert, director of government affairs. “We strategically outlined our policy initiatives for 2025 to focus on the critical needs of dairy farmers across the Midwest.” The dairy industry, as a whole, is suffering from a lack of available labor, and Edge says a rural workforce for rural prosperity is one of the top priorities this year. They’ll also be busy advocating for a new farm bill, which contains programs that can help farmers improve their ability to earn a living. The Co-op also says the Upper Midwest is a powerhouse for cheese production, so ensuring opportunities for dairy through existing, expanding, or emerging markets is essential to healthy growth. Edge also stands with its farmers in their commitment to sustainability. *********************************************************************************** Kansas and Oklahoma Winter Wheat Conditions Decline Kansas, the top U.S. winter-wheat-producing state, saw condition ratings for its crop decline during December, even as dry conditions subsided in parts of the state. The USDA rated 47 percent of the Kansas winter wheat crop in good-to-excellent condition on January 5, down from 55 percent from last November. Wheat ratings also dropped in December in Nebraska, Oklahoma, and South Dakota but improved in Montana and Colorado. As of December 31, about 25 percent of the winter wheat crop nationally was in an area experiencing drought. Farmers in the Plains states grow hard red winter wheat, the largest U.S. wheat class, which is milled into flour for bread. Ratings declined in Illinois and Ohio, where farmers grow soft red winter wheat used to make cookies and snack foods. The USDA rated 69 percent of the Illinois crop as good-to-excellent on January 5, down from 80 percent in November. *********************************************************************************** NCBA and PLC Protest Antiquities Act Use The Public Land Council condemned the Biden administration’s irresponsible use of the Antiquities Act of 1906 to create two brand-new national monuments in California. “There are just days left in the Biden administration, and once again, the Antiquities Act is being recklessly applied to almost one million acres to create tremendous uncertainty for rural communities that rely on responsible resource management,” says Kaitlynn Glover, executive director of the Public Lands Council. “The record is clear as monument designations at the eleventh hour jeopardize rangeland health, threaten local economic stability, and unnecessarily make these areas political pawns during a transition period.” She also says the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council strongly oppose this declaration and will work with the Trump Administration to limit abuses like this. House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman (R-AR) slammed the new monuments and vowed to roll back the designations. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants Fund Urban Ag and Innovative Production The USDA is providing a total of $14.4 million in grants and technical assistance through two separately funded projects to support urban agriculture and innovative production. The Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is making $2.5 million available in grants, while the Natural Resources Conservation Service is providing $11.9 million. “This grant program continues growing in popularity, and we look forward to partnering with more communities nationwide to strengthen local food systems and increase access to healthy foods,” says Louis Aspey, Acting Chief of the NRCS. “We’re also excited for this opportunity to add experienced Urban Agriculture Conservation Extension Educators to enhance our customer service through partnership with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. NIFA (NEE-fah) issued a release saying the agency is looking forward to partnering with NRCS and land-grant universities to increase the footprint of Cooperative Extension in dedicated Urban Service Center sites across the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 8, 2025 |

Farmer Sentiment Drifts Lower in December Farmer sentiment moved lower in December as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped nine points to 136. The decline was driven by producers’ weaker perspective on current conditions in U.S. agriculture and their farms, with the Index of Current Conditions falling 13 points to 100. Although it did decline, it was still 24 points above its low in September and five points higher than in October. The Index of Future Expectations also fell eight points to 153, remaining 59 points above its September low and 29 points higher than in October. While sentiment did drop, much of the post-election optimism about future conditions is still holding strong. Producers’ optimism about the future seems to stem largely from expectations for a more favorable policy environment during the next few years. After a 13-point increase in November, the Farm Capital Investment index dropped seven points to a reading of 48. *********************************************************************************** Web-Based App Will Optimize Soil Sampling The Agricultural Research Service, the University of Nebraska, and the ARS’s Partnership for Data Innovations have launched a new web-based application involving soil sampling. The application, called the Soil Sample Panning Organizer Tool, or SSPOT, will facilitate digital soil mapping and optimize soil sampling. Effective soil management relies on understanding the various factors that drive soil productivity, including pH levels, nutrient variability, and organic soil carbon. Soil sampling has emerged as a valuable tool in advancing precision farming, particularly in today’s changing climate and the growing need to monitor the carbon footprint in agriculture. Land managers and researchers rely on routine soil sampling to monitor soil variability and determine the best practices to increase production while maintaining sustainability. SSPOT is a user-friendly tool with integrated algorithms to help users determine the optimal placement of samples needed to comprehensively understand soil activity in various soil types over time. For more information, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for 1890 National Scholars Program The USDA is accepting applications for its 1890 National Scholars Program. The program’s goal is to encourage students in 1890 land-grant universities to pursue career paths in food, agriculture, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The application deadline is March 1, 2025. Young people around the country are invited to complete and submit their applications online through an e-application. Administered through USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is available to eligible high school seniors entering their freshman year of college as well as rising college sophomores and juniors. “The program has been an effective tool to help USDA recruit and retain highly qualified students into careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields,” says USDA’s Lisa Ramirez. The program awarded 94 scholarships in the 2024 cohort of 18 scholars. For more information, go to the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn and Soybean Inspections Fall USDA data says inspections of corn and beans for export declined week to week while wheat assessments improved. The agency says corn inspections in the seven days that ended on January 2 fell to 847,463 metric tons from 907,565 tons a week earlier. That’s also down from 1.09 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for offshore delivery dropped to 1.28 million tons from 1.64 million during the previous week. That total was still up from the 1.04 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat inspections improved week to week to 412,342 tons from 339,101 tons. USDA says that’s still down from the 501,910 tons assessed during the same week in 2024. Since the marketing year began on September 1, the agency has inspected 16.2 million tons of corn for export, a higher number than at the same point in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Trump Won’t Narrow Tariff Plans A recent Washington Post report said President-elect Trump’s aides are considering narrowing his tariff plans so they would only apply to limited specific critical imports. However, Farm Policy News says Trump denied that would happen. In Trump’s words in a Truth Social post, he says, “The story which quoted so-called anonymous sources which don’t exist, incorrectly states my tariff policy will be pared back, and that is wrong,” he said. If it would come to fruition, that plan would mark a significant narrowing of the universal tariffs of 10 to 20 percent that Trump proposed during his campaign, a move which economists expect to drive up consumer prices and distort global trade patterns. On the campaign trail, Trump promised to impose a 60 percent tariff on Chinese goods and to phase out imports of essential goods from China over four years, and a 25 percent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. *********************************************************************************** South American Crops Facing Weather Challenges Production estimates reached record levels for Brazil and Argentina’s winter soybean crops ahead of the 2024-2025 planting season. A USDA report predicted 169 million metric tons of soybeans in Brazil, a 10.4 percent increase from the previous marketing year. Argentina’s predicted output was 52 million metric tons, a jump of 7.86 percentage points from the 2023-2024 forecast. But, since that forecast came out December 10, each country’s crops have been clouded by shifting weather. Dry conditions in northern Argentina lasted throughout December, and maps are showing the area has received between 50-80 percent of its normal rainfall. In Brazil, weather has been drier than normal during the early planting season. Successful Farming says December saw much of southern Brazil nearing 80 percent of its average rainfall. Rainfall the country saw in the final two weeks of 2024 is expected to continue through January, which coincides with Brazil’s typical wetter season.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday January 8, 2025 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A front is moving through the Canadian Prairies into the Northern Plains on Wednesday, bringing in some warmer air and scattered precipitation. This will be an important feature as it will connect with a trough over northwestern Mexico for Thursday and produce a big winter storm across the South to end the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 7, 2025 |

Limited Supply and Strong Demand in Farmland Market The Farmers National Company says there are more motivated land buyers in today’s market than there are willing sellers. Land values have remained quite stable in the Midwest despite the pressure from lower net farm income, declining commodity markets, higher interest rates, and increased input costs. “There are many factors for buyer motivation, but much of it can be explained by mindset translating to demand,” says Paul Schadegg, senior vice president of real estate operations at Farmers National. “Farm operators are still the primary buyers of ag land, and their mindset revolves around reinvesting in their farm, expanding operations, and utilizing today’s farm equipment fully.” The Land location also plays a part in decision-making as it often hasn’t changed hands for generations, and once sold, “It may not be sold again,” he added. Across the industry, land listings are down, on average, by 25 percent from the active market between 2020-2023. *********************************************************************************** Specialty Crop Marketing Assistance Deadline Extended The USDA reminds specialty crop producers to apply for assistance for marketing and food safety certification expenses. The Farm Service Agency is providing an additional $650 million in funding for the new Market Assistance for Specialty Crops Program and extending the MASC application deadline to this Friday, January 10. Meanwhile, FSA also reminds specialty crop producers of the January 31, 2025, deadline to apply for the Food Safety Certification and Specialty Crops Program for 2024 expenses. With a total of $2.65 billion available, MASC helps specialty crop producers expand markets and manage higher costs. FSA is also increasing the MASC payment limit from $125,000 to $900,000. “Specialty crop producers should act quickly to make an appointment to apply for both marketing and food safety certification assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Specialty crop producers have been impacted by higher marketing and handling costs due to the perishability of their products.” *********************************************************************************** The Beagle Brigade Act Signed into Law The National Pork Producers Council commended President Biden for signing the Beagle Brigade Act into law. It provides statutory authority and reliable funding to the National Detector Dog Training Center. “Pork producers employ many biosecurity measures to keep foreign animal diseases out of their herds,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President. “As pork producers, we’re grateful this Beagle Brigade Act will continue to keep our food supply more safe and secure for everyone.” The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trains beagles and other dogs at U.S. ports of entry to spot contraband fruits, vegetables, and meat products in international passenger baggage, mailed packages, and vehicles entering the United States. The Beagle Brigade agriculture canine teams bolster national security by performing critically important inspections at ports of entry. “Further away at our nation’s ports, the Beagle Brigade helps ensure that foreign animal diseases travel past our borders,” Stevermer adds. *********************************************************************************** Updated BQA National Manual Now Available The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association announced the release of its updated Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) National Manual, which serves as a resource for science-based cattle production information and is free to all. “BQA empowers beef producers to maximize their potential to make the most efficient and responsible use of natural resources for effectively producing the world’s most nutritious and flavorful sources of protein,” says Dr. Clay Mathis of Texas A&M University and the BQA Advisory Group Chair. “This manual helps drive the improvement process across the supply chain through adherence to best management practices.” The publication’s goal is to provide technical information to help producers raise high-quality cattle resulting in the wholesome beef that consumers demand. It was developed to set production standards for beef quality and safety that are appropriate to an operation and that producers can realistically meet or exceed. For more information, go to bqa.org. *********************************************************************************** Federal Court Ends Roundup Litigation in Australia The Federal Court of Australia brought an end to the country’s last Roundup case, closing out all pending litigation there. The Court granted the plaintiff’s request to discontinue the Fenton class action against Monsanto involving allegations related to Roundup. The action followed Bayer’s earlier victory in the McNickle case in the same Court. McNickle was the first Roundup final judgment outside of the U.S. on the question of whether glyphosate in Roundup causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). The Court issued a 322-page ruling finding that the weight of the scientific evidence does not support a link between glyphosate and NHL. Bayer says, “This is an outcome consistent with the worldwide regulatory and scientific assessments, including from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority concluding that glyphosate is not carcinogenic.” In the U.S., Bayer has a winning record, getting favorable outcomes in 15 of the last 22 trials. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Welcome New Congress and Leadership The National Corn Growers Association gathered its leadership on Capitol Hill to welcome members of the new Congress as they were sworn into office. “We’re here to congratulate our friends and allies who were re-elected to Congress and introduce ourselves to those being sworn in for the first time,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman, Jr., who was in attendance. “We look forward to continuing our work with members on both sides of the aisle as we advocate for legislation that’s important to corn growers.” The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association congratulated Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) for his successful reelection campaign in the 119th Congress. Speaker Johnson has always been a strong supporter of U.S. cattle producers, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in the new Congress,” says Ethan Lane, vice president of government affairs at NCBA. “There’s a lot of work to do this year.”

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday January 7, 2025 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Job Openings at 9 a.m. CST Weather Cold air has settled in east of the Rockies Tuesday morning, especially over the fresh snowpack that occurred from the weekend storm. Another storm system is dropping south through the Intermountain West, producing some moderate snow in the High Plains. This system will become much more potent for southern areas later this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 6, 2025 |

German Election Frontrunner Wants Trade with U.S. Friedrich (FREED-rick) Merz, a German conservative leader, is considered the frontrunner to become the country’s next chancellor. He wants the European Union to make another attempt at a free trade deal once Donald Trump is back in the Oval Office. “We need a positive agenda with the U.S., which would benefit both American and European consumers,” said Merz. “A new European-American joint free trade initiative could halt a dangerous spiral of tariffs.” The Financial Times says it’s not clear what kind of reaction he’ll get from Washington. Trump halted negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, once a planned trade agreement between the EU and the U.S. Trump made the decision soon after taking office and imposed tariffs on European imports. In a sign of potential disagreements in the months ahead, President-elect Trump warned that the U.S. would impose tariffs on EU goods unless it bought more American oil and gas. *********************************************************************************** Scorecard on Delivering Broadband to Rural Areas The NCTA, or the Rural Broadband Association, released its “2024 Broadband-Internet Availability Survey Report.” The group says it capped off a year in which NCTA members made remarkable strides in delivering on the promise of robust and reliable high-speed connectivity in the most rural parts of the U.S. Despite operating in rural areas where the average density is less than seven locations per mile, approximately 89 percent of respondents’ customers, on-average, can receive downstream speeds greater than or equal to 100 Mbps, up from 84 percent in 2023. More than 76 percent of customers on average have access to Gigabit downstream speeds, an increase from 67 percent in 2023. Upload speeds continue to increase as well. Over 67 percent of respondents’ customers, on average, subscribe to 100 Mbps downstream broadband or better, up from just under 60 percent in the 2023 survey. Deployment costs remain the largest expansion barrier. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Grows for Fourth Consecutive Week The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production averaged 1.111 million barrels a day during the week ending on December 27. This was the fourth consecutive week-over-week increase, up from 1.107 million barrels a day during the prior week. In the Midwest, production rose to an average of 1.055 million barrels a day from 1.045 million during the previous week. The EIA says West Coast Production increased to 10,000 barrels a day, up from 9,000 barrels the week before. East Coast output was unchanged week over week at 11,000 barrels a day, on average. Rocky Mountain Production declined from 14,000 to 11,000 barrels a day. The government report also says Gulf Coast production fell from an average of 28,000 barrels a day to 22,000 barrels. Ethanol inventories increased to 23.639 million barrels from 23.074 million a week earlier. That’s the highest level for ethanol stocks since September 13. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Wants 2025 to Be Best Year Yet for Education The American Lamb Board’s 2025 program includes workshops and summits aimed at equipping sheep producers with the necessary tools and resources to profitably grow their operations. They’re encouraging producers to begin planning their year by discovering more about several upcoming opportunities, including six targeted grazing workshops on the 2025 schedule. The rapid development of utility-scale solar farms across the country has stimulated a significant need for sheep grazing as a means of vegetation management. There are increasing opportunities for sheep grazing contracts in wildfire-prone areas and vineyards. Sheep grazing helps eliminate dried plants that otherwise could become wildfire fuel, and grazing in vineyards and other regions helps to clear weeds while reducing or eliminating herbicide use. The ALB Targeted Grazing Workshops provide a unique chance to learn about these paid grazing contracts, which offer significant potential for expanding the sheep flock and enhancing the availability and price competitiveness of American Lamb. *********************************************************************************** China Approves More GM Crops to Boost Food Security China approved five gene-edited crop varieties and 12 types of genetically modified soybeans, corn, and cotton. Reuters says the expanded approvals are intended to boost high-yielding crops, reduce the need for imports, and ensure Chinese food security. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs awarded safety certificates to the 17 crop varieties, according to a document on its website. The approved gene-edited crops include two soybean varieties, and one each of wheat, corn, and rice. China mostly imports GM crops like corn and soybeans for animal feed, while cultivating non-GM varieties for food consumption. Many Chinese consumers remain concerned about the safety of GM food crops. A ministry document says the safety certificates for the newly approved varieties are valid for five years, starting from December 25, 2024. China has also approved importing an insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant GM soybean variety from the German firm BASF exclusively as a processing material, the ministry added. *********************************************************************************** Summer 2025 Internship Opportunities Now Available The Texas & Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, the largest and oldest livestock association in the Southwest U.S., announced applications are now open for the summer 2025 internship programs. Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association internship programs provide one-of-a-kind opportunities for students to network with stakeholders throughout the beef industry and gain valuable experience working alongside Association staff and leadership. All experiences are paid and offer a unique platform for students to actively engage in and contribute to association happenings. The summer 2025 opportunities include a semester-long TSCRA Internship in Fort Worth, which will offer a variety of opportunities in administration, communications, education, events, membership, and more. The TSCRA Government Relations Internship is in Austin and focuses on federal and state policy-related issues, including private property rights, natural resources, and others. The application deadline is February 3. More information is available on each opportunity at the Texas & Southwest Cattle Raisers website.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday January 6, 2025 |

Monday Watch List Markets Grain Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST NASS Dairy Products at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders Data at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A system that moved through the middle of the country over the weekend continues eastward on Monday. Heavy snow and freezing rain continue across the Ohio Valley into the Mid-Atlantic. The system is pulling down some very cold air deep into the country that continues for most of the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 3, 2025 |

East and Gulf Coast Port Strike Seems More Likely Shippers want to know if there will be a strike because there’s less than a month until the International Longshoremen Association’s contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance is set to expire. Supply Chain Dive says a major development in the prolonged negotiations occurred when President-elect Trump voiced his support for the ILA’s stance against automation at ports following a meeting with the union. Farm Policy news says the situation points in the direction of another strike. One shipping giant is already urging its customers to pick up their laden containers and return the empty ones at the U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports before January 15 to mitigate potential disruptions at the terminals on account of the strike. Joe Schuele (SHEE-lee) of the U.S. Meat Export Federation says ports and terminal operators are likely to stop accepting refrigerated cargo several days before the strike date, so shippers should make adjustments now. *********************************************************************************** List of State Crop Assistance Payments In addition to a farm bill extension through September 30, the American Relief Act of 2025, recently passed by Congress, contains $9.8 billion in market relief payments for 20 covered crops. This economic assistance is intended to offset part of the economic loss producers are facing following a decline in crop prices and production costs remaining high. Analysis from the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute says the top ten states were based on estimated payments for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, sorghum, rice, barley, oats, and peanuts, shows Texas at #1 with $963 million, primarily because it’s the largest U.S. cotton producer. Iowa is next with $846 million because of strong support for corn and soybean farmers. Illinois is next at $790 million, followed by Kansas at $787 million and Nebraska at $625 million, rounded out the top five. Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Indiana, and Missouri finish out the top ten. *********************************************************************************** Argentina Exchange Cuts Soybean Planting Estimates, Raises Corn Argentina’s Buenos Aires Grains Exchange raised its corn planting estimate while trimming the pegged soybean areas for the 2024-2025 season. The corn crop is now seen covering over 16,308,000 acres, up from a prior estimate of more than 15,567,000 acres. The Exchange says the new forecast was a correction of the previous one. The soybean planting area is now seen at over 45,460,000 acres, a reduction of 494,200 acres from the previous estimate. Farmers are sowing less on lower soybean prices, and many are planting alternatives. Soybean and corn compete for the most acres in Argentina, one of the world’s top corn exporters and the number one exporter of soy byproducts to international markets. Argentina’s farmers have sown 85 percent of their soybean acres and 81 percent of the corn crop. The report also says farmers have harvested 89 percent of Argentina’s expected wheat crop. *********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Food Safety Advisory Committee The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is soliciting nominations for membership to the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods. This advisory committee is charged with providing impartial scientific advice and recommendations to the USDA and other government agencies on microbiological and public health issues relating to the safety of the U.S. food supply. USDA expects to appoint 30 committee members in 2025, whose work will include reviewing FSIS’ regulatory approach to Listeria. “For the past 36 years, experts serving on the National Advisory Committee have played a critical role in fortifying our food safety standards and ensuring they rely on the latest science,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Our approach to food safety must continually evolve, and those serving on this committee will help us strengthen our regulatory framework and programs that best safeguard the health and well-being of American families.” More information is available at fsis.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Carbon Pipeline Discussion Continue in SD The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission scheduled a series of six public input meetings in January about Summit Carbon Solutions’ application for a permit to construct a carbon dioxide pipeline. The meetings are scheduled for January 15-17 at various locations in eastern South Dakota near the proposed pipeline route. Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions plans a 25-mile, $9 billion pipeline to capture carbon dioxide from 57 ethanol plants across five states, including eastern South Dakota, and transport it to North Dakota for underground storage. The project would capitalize on federal tax credits incentivizing the prevention of heat-trapping carbon emissions. “The purpose of the public input meetings will be to hear public comments regarding the application and the project,” the commissioners said in a written order. “At the meetings, Summit will present a brief description of the project, after which interested people may appear and present their views, comments, and questions.” *********************************************************************************** USGC Part of Trade Mission to Morocco U.S. Grains Council staff traveled to Casablanca, Morocco, in December as a part of the USDA trade mission to the country. The Foreign Agricultural Service led the mission, which included 50 agribusinesses and 14 state departments of agriculture and farm organizations on a trade mission to highlight the continued trade partnership between the U.S. and Morocco. The USGC remarks to other attendees called Africa the future, with its population expected to reach nearly 2.5 billion by 2050, and it holds considerable long-term growth potential for feed and meat demand, which means more market share for U.S. agricultural products. Discussions with the USDA delegation and cooperators centered on the benefits of the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement and ways to build on its success in expanding U.S. exports to Morocco and neighboring West African countries. The Council will continue promoting U.S. ag by nurturing the growth of aquaculture, beef, poultry, and other Moroccan operations.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday January 3, 2025 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST ISM Manufacturing Index at 9 a.m. CST EIA Natural Gas Report (pertinent to ethanol margin/production) at 9:30 a.m. CST Fed Balance Sheet at 3:30 p.m. CST *Note CFTC Commitment of Traders data is delayed until Monday, Jan 6 due to the New Year Holiday* Weather A major storm system is moving into the Pacific Northwest on Friday and will be watched for heavy snow and freezing rain as it moves through the country's midsection for the weekend. Ahead of it, lake-effect snows continue off the Great Lakes.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 2, 2025 |

U.S. and Global Ag Economies Uncertain About 2025 The prospect of new tariff disputes when Donald Trump returns to the White House has the global economy in an uncertain position in early 2025. Farm Policy News says ongoing geopolitical tensions and continuing climate challenges will significantly impact agricultural trade and producer profitability during the year. The global economic landscape in 2024 was shaped by falling inflation and moderate expansion. However, a Rabobank market researcher says the implementation of U.S. tariffs would run the risk of fragmenting global trade and financial flows that could particularly hit developing nations with high dollar-debt exposure hard. Meantime, the outlook for the U.S. rural economy is also uncertain. The outcome of the 2024 election cycle promises to bring a significant change to the federal government’s approach to everything, including international trade, immigration, energy exploration, and rural economic development. The high level of policy uncertainty is adding to the headwinds rural America already faces. *********************************************************************************** Ten Things That May Affect Ag in 2025 The majority of agricultural economists in the latest Monthly Monitor say U.S. ag ended 2024 in a recession. Farm Journal’s AgWeb.com says 56 percent of ag economists responded “yes” to the question of a recession. The newest Monthly Monitor asked economists what they’ll be watching for in the new year. One of the biggest is the potential of a prospective tariff war, which they say is “being downplayed despite published research measuring the expected damage range.” They’re also looking at farmer attitudes toward non-traditional land uses, including CRP, solar, and other forms that help boost their incomes. There is worry about the Brazilian real (ree-ALL), which is depreciating and could lead to more U.S. competition. Also, in 2025, there’s a chance that cash rent prices may stay constant despite a downturn in crop prices. Farm incomes vary greatly by region, and the economists say Southern farmers are really struggling. *********************************************************************************** More Canadians Struggle with Food Insecurity Canada’s recent Food Price Report 2025 forecasts a rise in food prices between three and five percent, pushing the average family of four’s annual food expenditure to $16,833.67. That’s an increase of $800 from last year. Though 2024 saw food prices grow more slowly than expected, affordability remains a major concern for Canadians as inflation continues to erode household budgets. Despite easing inflation in 2024, food insecurity continues to affect millions of Canadians. In 2023, Statistics Canada reported that 23 percent of households in its ten provinces were food insecure. That impacted 8.7 million people, including 2.1 million children. Those figures are significantly higher in Nova Scotia at 29 percent and Prince Edward Island at 29 percent. Those areas have the highest food insecurity in the country. Canada’s food banks saw record demand in 2023, with visits passing two million. That’s an increase of 90 percent compared to 2019. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Elects New Chairman One new board member was appointed by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and was sworn in, while three other producers began their second terms after reappointment by Vilsack. The swearing-in took place during the United Sorghum Checkoff Program’s annual December meeting. The board also elected Ethan Miller of Columbia, Missouri, as the 2025 chairman. “I’m honored to take on the role of Chairman and continue driving innovation and opportunities for sorghum producers,” Miller said. “Our industry’s resilience and adaptability are key to unlocking sorghum’s potential, and I look forward to working alongside this exceptional team to advance our mission.” Norma Ritz Johnson, UNSC Executive Director, says the organization continues to thrive because of the dedication of its producers and leaders who work tirelessly to support the sorghum industry. “This Board represents a wealth of production experience and forward-thinking vision that will help us navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Early 2025 Could Be Bitterly Cold A strengthening storm is expected to bring snow, ice, and possibly severe thunderstorms to parts of the central and eastern U.S. as it slides across the country this weekend into early next week. AccuWeather expert forecasters say several Arctic blasts will bring waves of bitterly cold air to much of the eastern half of the nation starting this weekend. The system could bring some of the lowest January temperatures in over ten years to some places. “We’re going to be dealing with the coldest air of the season and multiple days of sub-zero temperatures from the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest into the Tennessee Valley,” says Chief Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. Lake-effect snow is forecast to increase as progressively colder air moves across the Great Lakes. Ice cover on the Great Lakes is well below historical averages, allowing the cold air blowing across the relatively warmer waters to create lake-effect snow. *********************************************************************************** EU Deforestation Rule Delayed by a Year The European Parliament voted to delay implementation of a deforestation regulation for a year, providing a reprieve for U.S. cattlemen. The rule will require imports of beef and other goods to include documentation showing they did not come from areas impacted by deforestation. In the case of beef, that includes geolocation data of where the cattle were raised. The new regulation had been scheduled to take effect on December 30. Erin Borror, vice president of economic analysis with the U.S. Meat Export Federation, says deforestation is not a concern for U.S. beef, yet America’s producers are faced with burdensome and unnecessary paperwork, even though the EU systems are still not ready for implementation. The one-year delay offers limited time to not only iron out systems for the implementation, but to also push for key changes to the rule, including a “no-risk” designation for trading partners where forests are not cleared for production.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday January 2, 2025 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Initial jobless claims at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 10 a.m. CST USDA Fats and Oils and Grain Crush report at 2 p.m. CST Weather A small, compact system is moving through the Midwest on Thursday with a streak of snow, which may be moderate across Iowa. Showers will continue in the Pacific Northwest while cold air seeps down from the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 31, 2024 |

NCBA Reacts to Temporary Relief from CTA The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says a recent decision putting the Corporate Transparency Act reporting requirements on hold is “confusing.” Kent Bacus, NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs, says the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court reversed the ruling it had issued before Christmas and has instead decided to uphold the injunction blocking the Corporate Transparency Act from taking effect. “This means U.S. cattle producers have yet another reprieve from filing beneficial ownership information with the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCen,” Bacus says. “These court rulings have gone back and forth and continue to add to the overall confusion.” He also says NCBA urges all cattle producers to consult with their attorney and tax professional for the latest information in case of more changes. “NCBA is continuing to urge Congress to pass legislation that will permanently protect cattle farmers and ranchers from this burdensome mandate,” Bacus added. *********************************************************************************** December Rural Mainstreet Index Drops from November Bump After advancing above growth neutral in November for the first time since 2023, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index sank below the 50.0 reading in December. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture or energy. The December index plummeted to 39.6 from November’s 50.2. It was the 11th time this year that the overall reading was below growth neutral. The index range is 0 to 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral. “In retrospect, there appears to have been a significant November upturn resulting from the surprising Trump election results,” says Dr. Ernie Goss (GAHS) of Creighton University. “The positive bump disappeared in December.” Roughly one in four bankers reported their local economy was either in a recession or would enter a downturn in 2025. The remaining three out of the four bankers expect slow growth but no recession next year. *********************************************************************************** Rapid Growth for Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel in 2024 The U.S. is on pace to surpass five billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel consumption for the first time. That caps a 2024 that saw increased efforts from states to drive adoption, updates to technical standards, growth in soybean crush capacity, and growing public support for clean transportation fuel. Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen says a strong 2024 has set the industry up for further growth in air, marine, rail, and heavy-duty transportation use. “Consumers and corporations are demanding more clean fuel, and they are increasingly turning to biodiesel and renewable diesel for it,” Rehagen said. “Our industry has become a central force in the global effort to curb greenhouse gas emissions.” One factor in the improvement is the number of states that implemented clean fuel policies. Updated fuel specs will create opportunities in the new year. Biodiesel and renewable diesel will continue making farms stronger in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Highlights 2024 Work Dairy checkoff initiatives of 2024 successfully increased dairy access in schools, expanded market share for U.S. dairy products domestically and internationally and supported the industry’s commitment to sustainability. Dairy Management Inc. President and CEO Barbara O’Brien says the checkoff is working and achieving a lot in building its next chapter. She outlined the “Now, Next, and Future” checkoff strategies at the joint annual meeting. “All of the successes were made possible by the dedication and hard work of everyone across the checkoff federation,” O’Brien said. “This was a strong year of results as we continue to work with and through others to catalyze action in energizing our trust- and sales-building priorities.” The Dairy Checkoff launched the Dairy Conservation Navigator, a resource hub designed to give farm advisors, stakeholders, and conservation professionals science-based information on sustainable practices and technologies. DMI also unveiled its InnovateWithDairy.com tool to help spur industry innovation ideas. *********************************************************************************** First Ever Ammonia Carbon Intensity Verification Program The Fertilizer Institute is launching the Verified Ammonia Carbon Intensity program, a voluntary certification of the carbon footprint of ammonia production at a specific facility. It’s the first program of its kind and is designed to provide ammonia consumers seeking to reduce emissions across their supply chains with an independent and certifiable carbon intensity score. “As agriculture looks to develop more sustainable and resilient supply chains, the Verified Ammonia Carbon Intensity program provides ammonia consumers with certifiable transparency that will allow them to quantify the positive impact using low-carbon ammonia has on their greenhouse gas emissions footprint,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. VACI is initiating a 60-day public consultation period for ammonia consumers and stakeholders to provide feedback on the program and its methodology via a survey. VCI intends to redefine the program based on the comments it receives. Ammonia is one of the world’s most widely produced chemicals.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 31, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets E.I.A. Monthly Biofuels Capacity and Feedstocks at 11 a.m. CST NASS Agricultural Prices at 2 p.m. CST Weather A storm system that brought some moderate precipitation to parts of the Plains on Monday continues through the Midwest on Tuesday. Higher temperatures there are leading to mostly rain, though some snow will mix in on the northern edge, especially Tuesday night. Cooler air is filling in behind the system, which will lead to lake-effect snow for the rest of the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 30, 2024 |

Trump Threatens to Take Back Panama Canal Control Reports say President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal. Farmdoc says he accused Panama of charging excessive rates to use the passage, which drew a sharp rebuke from Panama’s president. Speaking to supporters in Arizona, Trump also said he wouldn’t let the Canal fall into the wrong hands, warning of potential Chinese influence on the passage. Reaction from South American experts says Trump’s stance is “baffling” as Panama’s president is considered to be a pro-business conservative who’s made a lot of overtures to show he wants a special relationship with the U.S. “The Panama Canal is a critical choke point for U.S. agriculture and the overall U.S. economy,” says Dennis Rudat of Farm News Media. “Seventy-two percent of all cargo transiting the Panama Canal is either coming or going to the U.S., including a substantial portion of U.S. agricultural exports,” says Farm Bureau’s Betty Resnick. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Milton Hits Almost Six Million Ag Acres A report from the University of Florida says Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 hurricane, when it made landfall on October 9, hit more than 5.7 million acres of agricultural land. Over 68 percent of those acres were grazing land. Across all commodity groups, approximately 62 percent of impacted acreage experienced low-intensity weather conditions. Another 38 percent of the acreage experienced moderate-intensity weather conditions, and less than one percent experienced high-intensity weather conditions. Preliminary estimates of production losses for Florida’s agricultural producers from Milton are between $190.4 million and $642.7 million. The commodity groups hit hardest in terms of production losses were vegetables, melons, and potatoes, followed by greenhouse-nursery producers and animals and animal products. Damage to infrastructure included homes, livestock buildings, watering points, perennial plantings, conservation structures, honeybee boxes, fences, farm equipment, and irrigation systems. There was a lot of damage to stored agricultural inputs like fertilizer, feed, and animal medicines. *********************************************************************************** Port Labor Dispute Affecting Red Meat Exports U.S. agriculture is bracing for a potential work stoppage at East and Gulf Coast ports that could greatly disrupt American red meat exports. Contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance broke down in mid-November over issues related to automation and have shown little progress over the past month. The two sides reached a tentative agreement on wages in early October and temporarily extended the existing labor agreement. However, the contract extension will expire on January 15. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says the uncertainty is already impacting red meat exports. USMEF President Dan Halstrom says ocean carriers are announcing surcharges related to a potential strike, and exporters are forced to look, where possible, to divert shipments to other ports. Approximately 45 percent of waterborne U.S. pork exports ship out of the East and Gulf Coast ports, and on the beef side, that total is 30 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Disappointed in No Year-Round E15 Following Congressional votes on year-end legislation, National Corn Growers Association President Ken Hartmann, Jr., says corn growers were disappointed about no year-round access to E15. “We thought it would be in the end-of-year legislation package,” he said. “This no-cost provision would have provided a market-driven solution to farmers experiencing low corn prices.” The organization is calling on legislators to address this matter as quickly as possible at the start of the new Congress and fix the issue once and for all. “The National Corn Growers Association is appreciative of House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership and our other champions who worked hard to extend the farm bill and provide much-needed economic and disaster assistance in farm country,” said Hartmann, Jr., a farmer from Illinois. “This assistance will help growers reeling from natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires and multiple years of low crop prices paired with higher input costs.” *********************************************************************************** November Egg Production Down Four Percent U.S. egg production totaled 8.92 billion during November 2024, down four percent from last year. Production included 7.68 billion table eggs and 1.24 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.15 billion were broiler-type and 90.3 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during November totaled 376 million, down three percent from last year. November egg production per 100 layers was 2,374 eggs, down one percent from November 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on December 1, 2024, was 375 million, down three percent from last year. The 375 million layers consisted of 311 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 60.7 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.78 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of lay per day on December 1, 2024, averaged 79 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from December 1, 2023. Egg-type chicks hatched during November 2024 totaled 48.8 million, up one percent from November 2023. *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation is Funding the Future Thanks to a dedicated group of 16 Angus breeders, the Fund the Future Campaign garnered $36,400 for the Angus Fund in fiscal year 2024. The funds help support the Foundation’s mission and events like the Beef Leaders Institute and Young Cattlemen’s Conference. The Angus Foundation is excited about the new year and the opportunities it brings. In the new year, an anonymous donor pledged to match the first $30,000 raised, effectively doubling the impact of every dollar donated. “I’m thrilled to watch the campaign expand and see more breeders getting involved in 2025,” says Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “The simplicity of participation has sparked excitement, with breeders eager to contribute and knowing their donations are making an impact on the Angus breed.” The Fund the Future Campaign offers breeders a unique opportunity to give back through annual production sales, consignment sales, bull sales, or even private treaty opportunities.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 30, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST CFTC's holiday-delayed Commitments of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A small system is moving through the Western Corn Belt for Monday, bringing a mix of rain and snow and areas of high winds. Colder air is building over the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains and will follow the system east for Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 27, 2024 |

Beneficial Ownership Deadline Extended The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association wants to remind all producers that the Corporate Transparency Act filing requirements are back in effect. A recent court of appeals decision reversed an injunction that previously had stopped the mandate. “The Corporate Transparency Act requires millions of family farmers and ranchers to file complex paperwork and disclose beneficial ownership information with the federal government under penalty of severe fines and jail time,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. In light of the overturned injunction, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network announced it will delay enforcement of the CTA until January 13, 2025. NCBA and other groups say this delay doesn’t allow enough time for millions of small businesses to comply with the law, and it’s deeply concerning that FinCEN (FIN-sen) will proceed with enforcing the law when it has failed to give adequate notice and instructions to law-abiding family business owners. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent As of December 1, 2024, there were 75.8 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up one percent from December 2023 but down slightly from September 1, 2024. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published last week by the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Other key findings include that of the 75.8 million hogs and pigs, 69.8 million were market hogs, while six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November 2024, 35.2 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, up two percent from the same period last year. From September through November, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.92 pigs per litter. America’s hog producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between December 2024 and February 2025 and 2.95 million sows farrow between March and May 2025. Iowa’s hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states, at 24.6 million head. *********************************************************************************** Soy Groups Receive Additional RAP Funding The American Soybean Association, ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health Program, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council received a second round of funding from the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. The RAPP 2 Award from the U.S. Ag Department’s Foreign Agricultural Service will be invested in international market diversification and growth of U.S. soybean exports to help meet increasing protein demand and support nutrition security in global markets. “The American Soybean Association and our allied groups are exceptionally pleased to be included in the second round of RAPP grants, funding that will continue to open doors for U.S. agriculture exports in emerging markets,” says Caleb Ragland, ASA President and Kentucky farmer. “Soy is proud to be our country’s number one export but that doesn’t mean we can sit idle: We pride ourselves in finding innovative, collaborative ways to tap and expand markets around the world for our high-protein, high-quality soybeans.” *********************************************************************************** Meat Supplies in Cold Storage Drop in November The USDA says red meat in cold storage declined in November. Meat supplies in freezers on November 30 fell three percent month over month and five percent year over year to 7.41 billion pounds. In a report this week, USDA said that beef in storage totaled 440.5 million pounds, a two percent increase from October but down four percent from the same month in 2023. Boneless cuts in freezers rose three percent from the previous month to 398.2 million pounds. Pork stockpiles were reported at 391.1 million pounds, down eight percent on a monthly basis and six percent annually. About 69.3 million pounds of ham were in storage at the end of November, down 40 percent from the previous month but up 21 percent year over year. Bellies jumped 39 percent month to month to 22.5 million pounds, but that was down 53 percent from the same time last year. *********************************************************************************** How Economic Assistance for Farmers Will Be Distributed A Continuing Resolution keeping the government fully funded through March 14, 2025, also included economic aid for farmers experiencing one of the biggest income drops in many years. In fact, over the past two years, USDA projects that farmers will experience the steepest two-year decline in net farm income in history. Meanwhile, due to an ineffective safety net, government help for producers is slated to be at the lowest level since 1982. “The “Economic Loss Assistance Program” set aside $10 billion in direct payments for farmers. Farm Journal says while payment rates aren’t final yet, early estimates are out for various commodities. The corn payment for producers is estimated to be $43.80 per acre, while soybean payments are estimated at $30.61 per acre. Wheat farmers will receive $31.80 an acre, cotton growers are estimated to receive $84.70 an acre, and rice will receive $71.37. Twenty-one commodities are eligible for assistance. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Processors to Pay Millions in Lawsuit Nine of the nation’s largest poultry processors have agreed to pay settlements in a years-long antitrust lawsuit alleging that they conspired to depress workers’ wages at their facilities. The plaintiffs in the class action filed a memorandum on December 23 supporting a motion for preliminary approval of the nine new settlements by the defendants in the case. The suit was filed in 2019 and alleges that chicken companies and two consulting firms conspired to fix and depress hourly wages and benefits dating back to January 1, 2009. The plaintiffs also seek the appointment of a settlement counsel and a stay of the proceedings against the defendants that are settling. The 18 chicken producers named in the lawsuit, along with several of their subsidiaries, produce the majority of chicken sold in the U.S. Feedstuffs says the motion seeks approval of nine settlements, including Tyson Foods and Keystone Foods paying a combined $115 million.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 27, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 12 p.m. CST Weather A disturbance will lift through the Midwest on Friday and provide widespread, scattered rain showers as temperatures remain warm enough for any snow to be isolated in far northern areas. Some areas across the western Midwest could see 0.5-1.0 inch of rain. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 30s/40s Northern Plains and Pacific Northwest; 30s/50s Midwest; 40s/50s Central Plains; 50s/60s Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 26, 2024 |

Court Reinstates Beneficial Ownership Requirement On Monday, the 5th U.S. Circuit Appeals Court lifted a federal district court’s earlier order, which had previously halted the January 1, 2025 deadline for small businesses to file their beneficial ownership information with the Treasury Department. The Corporate Transparency Act passed by Congress in 2021 requires the paperwork to be filed by the Treasury’s Finanicial Crimes Enforcement Network. The CTA requires that owners and part-owners of an estimated 32.6 million small businesses, including 230,000 farms, must register their personal information with FinCEN. The American Farm Bureau estimates that this appeals court ruling now puts tens of thousands of farms back on the legal deadline to register their businesses with the federal government. Of the 230,000 farms that are likely required to file, only 11 percent had done so as of October. Farmers are encouraged to contact an accountant or an attorney if they are unsure about whether they are required to file the information.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 26, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Buenos Aires Grain Exchange Weekly Crop Update at 12 p.m. CST Weather Widespread, scattered rain showers and a few severe thunderstorms will extend through the southeast Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley on Thursday as a disturbance passes through the region. Rain showers will eventually spread into the Western Midwest later tonight as temperatures remain warm enough for mainly rain.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 24, 2024 |

U.S. Prevails in USMCA Dispute with Mexico U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the U.S. has prevailed in its dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement challenging Mexican biotechnology measures on GE corn imports. The USMCA panel agreed with the U.S. on all seven legal claims, finding that Mexico’s measures banning imports of GMO corn from the U.S. were not based on sound science and undermined the market access that Mexico agreed to provide in the trade agreement. “Mexico’s measures ran counter to decades’ worth of evidence demonstrating the safety of agricultural biotechnology, underpinned by science and risk-based regulatory review systems,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Under USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the final report (December 20th) to comply with the Panel’s findings. “The panel’s conclusion backs up our long-held position that agricultural trade policies must be grounded in science and must not disrupt trade in agricultural products,” says USTR Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip. *********************************************************************************** Groups React to USMCA Panel Decision In a major win for the nation’s corn growers, a USMCA dispute panel ruled that Mexico violated its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The violation took place in early 2023 when Mexico issued a decree that banned genetically modified corn imports. “This is an incredible development for the nation’s corn growers and rural communities,” says Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association. “The outcome is a direct result of advocacy efforts of corn grower leaders from across the country.” The U.S. Grains Council also hailed the good news. “Mexico has always been a powerful partner to U.S. corn growers and exporters, so when the country tried banning GM imports, it would have severely affected our industry,” says Ryan LeGrand, USGC President and CEO. “The Council worked to help ensure the dispute result was fair, and we look forward to continuing our work with our top U.S. grains-in-all-forms customer.” *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Driving Egg Costs Higher Shoppers were buying more eggs to bake Christmas treats ahead of the holiday season at the same time U.S. wholesale egg prices were up 150 percent from last year. Reuters says the average retail price of a dozen eggs surpassed $3.60 in November, $2.50 higher than the prices in January. September’s average price was even higher at $3.80 per dozen. Retailers didn’t want to push shoppers away during the busy holiday season, so they’ve been slow to raise their prices to pass on the higher costs. However, those price hikes could come in early 2025. The main factor pushing egg prices higher is bird flu’s impact on the American laying flock. The virus has wiped out 123 million chickens, turkeys, and other poultry in 49 states since the outbreak began in 2022. Nationwide, the laying hen flock in October was three percent lower than in 2023 at approximately 315 million birds. *********************************************************************************** Conservation Proponents Disappointed with Congressional CR Congress passed a year-end bill that includes a continuing resolution extending current levels of federal funding until March, including an extension of the 2018 Farm Bill. However, the National Association of Conservation Districts was disappointed the package didn’t include Inflation Reduction Act conservation funding. “The failure to include conservation funding in an end-of-year bill forgoes an incredible opportunity,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. “Unfortunately, it reflects Congress’ increasing inability to negotiate and pass commonsense solutions.” The American Farmland Trust was also let down by a lack of conservation funding. “Conservation programs are popular, oversubscribed, and key to helping producers remain profitable and build resilience to extreme weather,” AFT says in a release. “By transferring those dollars to build the farm bill conservation baseline, Congress could have ensured additional conservation funding to meet the high demand. Thousands of farmers won’t be able to enhance profit margins while protecting soil and water quality.“ *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Down Slightly Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 12 million head on December 1, 2024. That inventory level was slightly below December 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during November totaled 1.8 million head, four percent below the same time in 2023. Net placements totaled 1.74 million head. During November, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 495,000 ahead, 600-699 pounds were 420,000 head, 700-799 pounds totaled 375,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 276,000 head, 900-999 pounds totaled 145,000 head, and 1,000 pounds or greater reached 85,000 head. Marketings of fed cattle during November totaled 1.73 million head, one percent below November 2023. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 ahead during November, which was two percent higher than in 2023. *********************************************************************************** Farm Progress Holds Successful 2024 Organic Grower Summit The 2024 Organic Grower Summit in Monterey, California, again proved to be the premier gathering for the Organic farming community. The event welcomed hundreds of participants from across the U.S. organic industry. “This year’s enthusiastic participation underscores the growing interest in sustainable and innovative farming practices,” says Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress national events director. “The Organic Grower Summit provides a platform for collaboration and learning for stakeholders who are shaping the future of organic farming.” The seminar’s educational sessions covered critical topics like soil health, ag technology, and market resiliency. A major focus was the increasing importance of regenerative farming practices. “It’s inspiring to see the organic community come together to share knowledge and celebrate progress,” says Jungmann. “We’re grateful to our sponsors, partners, and exhibitors, and we’re already looking forward to next year.” The 2025 Organic Summit will return to Monterey, California, December 3-4. For updates, go to OrganicGrowerSummit.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 24, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets No major economic or USDA reports scheduled due to Christmas Eve. Market will trade a shortened session, closing at 12:05 p.m. CST. Weather A system will provide scattered showers and thunderstorms to the eastern half of the Southern Plains and the Lower Mississippi Valley on Tuesday. Marginally severe thunderstorms are possible across eastern Texas and locally heavy rainfall over two inches may develop across parts of eastern Oklahoma into western Arkansas. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 20s/40s Midwest; 30s/40s Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains; 40s/50s Central Plains; 50s/60s Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 23, 2024 |

USDA Assistance for Distressed Loans Borrowers The USDA announced the final $300 million in assistance to distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers under the Inflation Reduction Act. Over the past two years, USDA acted swiftly to assist distressed borrowers in retaining their land and continuing their agricultural operations. The assistance will provide $300 million in help to more than 12,800 distressed direct and guaranteed Farm Loan Program borrowers. “USDA has always been committed to standing by our nation’s farmers and ranchers, especially during their most challenging times,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This final round of payments will help almost 13,000 producers stay on their land and continue farming.” The assistance includes $168.5 million for payments of any outstanding delinquencies on qualifying direct loans as of November 30, 2024, for direct borrowers one or more days delinquent as of that date. Distressed borrowers may get assistance in multiple categories if they have multiple qualifying loans. *********************************************************************************** China Makes Big U.S. Soybean Purchase China’s Sinograin (SY-no-grain) bought almost 500,000 metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. for shipping in March or April. Two U.S. traders familiar with the purchase say Sinograin paid more for American supplies for its state reserves rather than buying cheaper beans from Brazil. China is the world’s number one soybean buyer and an important market for both the U.S. and Brazil. The industry is closely watching sales and the flow of trade to China ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. There is significant industry concern that another round of trade tariffs between the two nations would erode the value of U.S. soybeans. Soybean prices hit lows not seen in four years because of trade tensions, high stockpiles in the U.S., and a possible record harvest in Brazil. Reuters says Sinograin, China’s state-run grains trader and reserves manager, recently bought 750,000 tons for shipping from January through March. *********************************************************************************** Mexico is U.S. Dairy’s Most Reliable Customer America’s dairy exports to Mexico are approaching record levels as consumer demand for dairy products continues to outpace the country’s production. Mexico is the leading market for U.S. dairy products, comprising over one-fourth of international sales. Dairy product consumption in Mexico has increased by 50 pounds per capita since 2011. A new CoBank report says the upside potential for increasing U.S. dairy sales to Mexico remains strong, and broader export market opportunities are positioning the U.S. dairy industry for long-term growth. “Dairy product sales to Mexico have the potential for continued growth as more consumers enter the middle class and seek higher-quality proteins and fats,” says Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist for CoBank. “Mexico faces an annual dairy product deficit ranging between 25-30 percent, and the U.S. supplies over 80 percent of the shortfall.” The EU and New Zealand are the top two dairy exporters, but production stalled in those regions. *********************************************************************************** Six More States in National Milk Testing Strategy The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced another round of states coming on board with the National Milk Testing Strategy that launched on December 6. It requires unpasteurized milk samples to be collected and shared with USDA for testing. This represents another step toward conducting complete nationwide surveillance under the NMTS and continues building on the measures taken by USDA and its federal and state partners since the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle was first detected in the U.S. in March 2024. The seven states that will be included in the second round of the testing strategy are Indiana, Maryland, Montana, New York, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington. While the new federal order is effective immediately and has been in effect since it was announced on December 6, USDA will continue working with other states to bring them on board as quickly as possible while also accommodating state-specific needs. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Submits Comments on 45Z Tax Credit National Corn Growers responded to a request for information from Congress and sent comments outlining the importance of the 45Z tax credit. If enacted, the credit would provide the nation’s corn growers with access to the sustainable aviation market. The comments come as growers try to evaluate the importance of the tax credit, called 45Z, which is part of the Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2022. Corn grower leaders have said they want in on the new market. “NCGA believes farmers should be considered in the implementation of this tax credit because they contribute much to the lifecycle of biofuels,” the comments said. The letter also noted the value the tax credit provides to domestic energy security. “NCGA believes corn and soybean feedstocks are best suited for the 45Z tax credit to support domestic American-grown solutions.” NCGA has long advocated for the tax credit and pushed for realistic guidelines. *********************************************************************************** Red Meat Production Down Three Percent in November USDA says red meat production fell year over year in November as cattle and hog slaughter both declined. Commercial meat output totaled 4.56 billion pounds in November, down three percent from November 2023. Beef production dropped three percent on an annual basis to 2.22 billion pounds. Cattle slaughter fell six percent to 2.57 million head last month. USDA said the average weight was up 38 pounds to 1,425 pounds. Pork output was 2.33 billion pounds in November, down two percent year over year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.8 million head, down two percent from the same time in 2023. Average live hog weight was unchanged at 289 pounds. Lamb and mutton production was down seven percent annually to 10.4 million pounds. Sheep slaughter fell nine percent to 173,600 head. In the first 11 months of the year, red meat production rose to 50.4 billion pounds, up one percent from last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 23, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Consumer Confidence Report USDA Weekly Export Inspections USDA Hogs & Pigs Report Weather A small system will work through the Midwest on Monday, providing light snow showers and pockets of freezing rain or a mix of rain and snow. Later today into tonight, a system is expected to develop across Oklahoma and Texas, lending to scattered rain showers developing in eastern parts of these states. High Temperatures: 20s/30s Canadian Prairies; 20s/40s Northern Plains and Midwest; 30s/40s Pacific Northwest; 40s/50s Central Plains and Southeast; 50s/70s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 20, 2024 |

Iowa Soybean Partners with State for Water Quality Efforts A public-private partnership between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), the Iowa Soybean Association, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will invest over $2.3 million to install nutrient-reducing practices in priority Iowa watersheds. The majority of the funding will come from IDALS for outreach and to farmers and landowners who will then work with conservation staff to implement practices like saturated buffers, oxbows, and perennial cover. The $1.4 million put up by IDALS will also support design and engineering costs. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig (nag) announced the project at the Iowa Soybean Association’s Winter Policy Conference. This project, and others like it, prove collaborating is key to making meaningful progress. ****************************************************************************** New Pest Alert! Heads up for the Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper A notorious pest of cotton, okra, eggplant, and others has become established in the Caribbean basin. It has now been detected in several counties in Florida, from Miami-Dade County in the south to Jackson County in the north. The two-spot cotton leafhopper was first detected in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico in spring 2023. At the time, the only other Western Hemisphere record for this species was a single male labeled “Cuba” deposited in the U.S. National Museum. There are no other prior or subsequent reported finds in Cuba. Two-spot cotton leafhoppers feed on the lower surface of leaves, extracting the contents of the cells. This causes yellowing, reddening, then browning of leaves, with wilting and curling of the leaves. Adult two-spot cotton leafhoppers are tiny. They superficially resemble other leafhopper species such as the potato leafhopper. They can be distinguished by a dark spot on each wing and often by two dark spots on the head. ****************************************************************************** New Genetic Test Will Help Safeguard Quinoa from Top Foe Quinoa (keen-wah) is a grain-like seed offers a flavorful and is nutrition-packed. But in order for this versatile seed to get from farm field to table, quinoa growers must be vigilant for signs of downy mildew, a disease that can decimate the crop if left unchecked. To help growers, a team of researchers led by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) plant pathologist Anna Testen devised a fast new test to genetically detect the pathogen in both quinoa seed and leaf tissue. The advance opens the door to countering downy mildew on several fronts—with benefits to U.S. growers hoping to expand the crop and to consumers. Quantitative PCR is much more sensitive, meaning it can detect smaller amounts of DNA, than standard PCR, so there are fewer false negatives. ****************************************************************************** Louisiana Patient Has First Severe Illness Caused by Bird Flu in U.S. Health officials announced Wednesday the patient had been in contact with sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Previous illnesses in the U.S. had been mild and the vast majority had been among farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. The CDC confirmed the Louisiana infection on Friday, but did not announce it until Wednesday. It’s also the first U.S. human case linked to exposure to a backyard flock. Previous illnesses in the U.S. had been mild and the vast majority had been among farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. This year, more than 60 bird flu infections have been reported, with over half of them in California. ****************************************************************************** California Declares State of Emergency for Bird Flu California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday issued a state of emergency in response to a worsening bird flu outbreak that’s affected hundreds of dairy herds. The action will ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need around staffing, contracting and other rules to support the state’s response to the outbreak, according to the emergency proclamation. Statewide, bird flu has spread to 641 dairies in nine counties since late August, when the first detections in cattle emerged. It has infected 34 people in California to date. Newsom said a shift from regional containment to statewide monitoring was necessary, citing livestock infections at four Southern California dairies on Dec. 12. The state has already taken steps to address the bird flu virus, including enhanced testing of raw milk and livestock. To date, no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected in the U.S. ****************************************************************************** South Dakota’s Callie Mueller Named Miss Rodeo America 2025 Mueller was crowned December 8th at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. She also received the Appearance Award. The Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold crown is accompanied by over $20,000 in educational scholarships and prizes. This year’s national pageant featured 29 contestants from across the country. The competition included a horsemanship contest, a written test on equine science and rodeo knowledge, extensive interviews, extemporaneous speaking, and a fashion show. As Miss Rodeo America 2025, Callie will serve as the official representative of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. During her reign, she will travel over 40,000 miles and appear at nearly 100 rodeo performances, as well as attend various schools, civic groups, and special events to educate the public about rodeo, its sponsors and its opportunities. According to the Miss Rodeo America website, prior to Mueller, the most recent Miss Rodeo South Dakota to also earn the national title was Jordan Tierney in 2020-21.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 20, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Personal Consumption Expenditure data at 7:30 a.m. CST Cattle on Feed at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A weakening clipper system is moving through the Great Lakes and into the Northeast for Friday with scattered snow showers. The system is still pulling in some colder air that will spread through the eastern half of the country into the weekend. Another small clipper is moving through the Canadian Prairies and into the Northern Plains with streaks of light snow as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 19, 2024 |

Year-Round E15 Access in Continuing Resolution The Renewable Fuels Association thanked congressional leaders for including a provision allowing the year-round sale of lower-cost, cleaner-burning E15 in the stop-gap funding bill text released by the House of Representatives. “We are thrilled to see the long-awaited fix allowing year-round E15 in this package,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “This language would finally remove an outdated regulatory barrier and we’re hopeful that the continuing resolution will move swiftly through Congress and to the president’s desk for a signature.” He also says allowing year-round E15 sales would benefit farmers, fuel retailers, and consumers wanting lower-cost, cleaner fuel options at the pump. RFA thanked the House leadership, the Energy Committee leadership, and the dozens of House members on both sides of the aisle who advocated for the inclusion of this long-overdue provision. At an average price of $2.62 per gallon nationwide, it’s selling at an 8.7 percent discount to E10. *********************************************************************************** Congress Leaving Town with No Prop 12 Fix The National Pork Producers Council is deeply disappointed in Congress’ decision to relinquish its responsibility to produce a five-year farm bill and an overdue federal solution to California’s Proposition 12. The organization says pork producers don’t have the luxury of waiting for Congress to pass a new five-year bill. “After years of losing money and forcing family farms out of business, we needed the certainty to make decisions,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President and a Minnesota pork producer. “America’s pork producers have continually raised our voices and have ultimately been ignored by Congress through its failure to provide a solution to the problems created by Prop 12.” Instead, Congressional leadership announced its intention to pass a “clean” one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill, denying new programs or funding. NPPC and other agricultural stakeholders will continue to push Congress to provide a federal solution to Prop 12 and other priorities. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Fertilizer’s Economic Impact The Fertilizer Institute released the 2024 Fertilizer Industry Economic Impact Study, highlighting the importance and economic contributions of the U.S. fertilizer industry on national, state, and local economies. The study also underscores the global nature of fertilizer markets and the importance of open markets and fair competition in providing farmers access to vital nutrients exactly when and where they are needed. “Fertilizer is a critical component of the global food supply chain,” says TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The data reveals the industry’s significant economic impact and provides an opportunity to educate people about fertilizer’s complex global network and its reliance on open markets and fair competition to meet the needs of America’s farmers.” Trade is a critical component of the fertilizer industry and promotes the global interconnectivity of fertilizer markets. For example, the U.S. imports 98 percent of its potash from Canada, and Florida ships phosphate back to Canada. *********************************************************************************** NSP Announces 2024 Sorghum Yield Contest Winners National Sorghum Producers announced the winners of the 2024 National Sorghum Yield Contest. That included the Bin Buster awardee Kenny Rathjen of Texas, who took the top spot in the contest at 240.01 bushels per acre. “On behalf of NSP, I’m so proud to congratulate our 2024 Yield Contest winners,” says NSP Board of Directors Chair Amy France. “These outstanding results highlight the resilience and innovation of U.S. sorghum farmers.” She also says from Texas to New Jersey, the achievements of those growers continue to inspire and set a high standard for the industry, and they look forward to honoring this year’s winners at the 2025 Commodity Classic. Noteworthy yields are spotlighted across three distinct divisions spanning from the eastern to western regions in the U.S. “These yields are a reminder of the vital role sorghum plays in a sustainable agriculture landscape,” France added. The winner’s list is at sorghumgrowers.com/yieldcontest. *********************************************************************************** Wisconsin Reports Human H5N1 Infection The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has detected the first presumptive positive human case of H5N1 infection. The human case follows an infected flock of commercial poultry identified in Barron County, Wisconsin, where this person was exposed to the infected flock. The case was identified through testing at the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene and is pending confirmation at the CDC. Wisconsin health officials are monitoring farm workers who may have been exposed to the virus and have provided them with information to protect their health. The risk to the general public in Wisconsin remains low. People who work directly with infected birds or animals are at higher risk. The H5N1 virus has continued to circulate in wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021. The virus is highly contagious and often fatal to domestic poultry. The disease varies in severity depending on the strain and the species infected. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Domestic Fertilizer Production USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is making domestic fertilizer production investments in nine states to increase competition, lower fertilizer costs for American farmers, and lower food costs for U.S. consumers. “When we invest in domestic supply chains, we drive down input costs and increase options for farmers,” Vilsack says. “Through today’s investments, USDA is bringing jobs back to the United States, lowering costs for families, and supporting farmer income.” USDA is investing more than $116 million through the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program to help eight facilities expand innovative fertilizer production in California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. FPEP is funded by the Commodity Credit Corporation and provides funding to independent business owners to help them modernize equipment, adopt new technologies, and build new production plants. Through the program, USDA has invested $517 million in 76 fertilizer production facilities to expand domestic fertilizer access.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 19, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets FAS Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Jobless claims at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. GDP second revision at 7:3 a.m. CST Existing Home Sales at 9 a.m. CST Livestock Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Weather A clipper system continues to work across the north for Thursday, continuing snow in the Northern Plains and spreading it through the northern Midwest. Strong winds will push cold air through the country behind this clipper, but only for a couple of days as the year will end on a warm note.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 18, 2024 |

Last Minute Breakthrough on Farm Assistance House Speaker Mike Johnson announced a last-minute breakthrough on help for farmers. A must-pass bill to avert a government shutdown will now include farm aid, giving farmers something to celebrate the Christmas season. A high-pressure lobbying effort by multiple farm groups and Johnson himself has paid off. “What you’ll see reflected in this final package is $10 billion to start,” Johnson says. “In addition, USDA moved some things around and has added $2 billion for specialty crops they announced in late November, all of which means help is coming.” Johnson hopes with this announcement that a great sigh of relief is coming from farm country. “I’ve talked to several leaders in the ag community who say they’re greatly relieved,” Johnson added. While it’s not the $15 to $20 billion the American Farm Bureau and many others were asking for, Johnson says the new aid comes not a moment too soon. *********************************************************************************** NAFB Letter Supports AM Radio in the Continuing Resolution The National Association of Farm Broadcasting’s Board of Directors sent a letter to Congressional leadership on the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act being included in the Omnibus Continuing Resolution. The CR will be introduced before the end of the Lame Duck Session. The letter points out that for over 80 years, the NAFB’s broadcasters have worked hard to serve rural and urban residents with timely and accurate information in daily programming. “Failure to approve this critical AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act will allow automakers to eliminate access to critical information to the people we serve,” the letter says. “Rural and urban residents should not be forced to subscribe to an unreliable data stream for urgent information.” Radio access is especially important for America’s producers and rural audiences in times of emergency. For people working out in the open and miles from home, response time is critical. *********************************************************************************** Craig Voted the New Ranking Democrat on House Ag House Democrats voted to make Minnesota Representative Angie Craig the new Ranking Member on the Republican-controlled House Ag Committee. The Hill points out that Democrats chose a younger member of the House over long-time veteran legislator Jim Costa of California, who was also vying for the seat. Costa, the second-ranking member of the Ag Committee, has been on Capitol Hill for twenty years. She replaces David Scott of Georgia, the previous ranking member. The vote for Craig followed a decision from the Democrat’s Steering and Policy Committee to recommend Craig for the seat over Costa and Scott, who dropped out of the race on Monday after the Steering vote. Scott wanted to stay in the position, but he was considered to be having health challenges and not able to effectively operate as the top Democratic member of the Ag Committee moving forward. Craig won her fourth Congressional term in November. *********************************************************************************** Ten Percent Fewer U.S. Farms From 2012-2022 The 2022 Census of Agriculture showed the U.S. had 1,900,487 farms, down from over 2,100,000 in 2012. That represented a 10 percent drop, or 208,816 farms, in ten years. The Census of Ag is conducted every five years, and the last two five-year periods saw the number of farms decrease in all four farm size categories from 2012-2017. The smallest three categories fell from 2017-2022. Farms with annual revenue of less than $10,000 dropped the largest number within the decade, declining by over 151,000 farms, or 13 percent. On the other hand, large farms with $1 million or more in revenue increased by 32 percent, from 81,600 in 2012 to almost 108,000 in 2022. The number of farms with $10,000 to $249,999 in revenue dropped by 66,600, a nine-percent drop, from 2012 to 2022. Farms with revenues of $250,000 to $999,999 declined by more than 16,800, or a ten percent decrease. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections of Corn and Wheat Improve USDA’s inspections of corn and wheat for export rose week to week while soybean assessments declined during the week ending on December 12. Corn inspections for offshore delivery rose to 1.13 million metric tons, up from 1.06 million the week prior, and the 960,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2023. Wheat examinations increased to 298,000 tons from 247,000 tons the previous week and the 284,000 tons inspected at the same point last year. Soybean inspections fell to 1.68 million tons, down from the 1.74 million assessed a week earlier. That was higher than the 1.43 million assessed during the same week last year. Since the marketing year began on September 1, the government has inspected 13.3 million metric tons of corn, 25.2 million tons of soybeans, and, since June 1, 11.5 million tons of wheat. All three commodities are ahead of their yearly pace from last year. *********************************************************************************** More Raw California Milk Recalled California state ag officials have recalled raw milk from a Central Valley dairy after tests found the bird flu virus in a sample of milk from a bulk tank. State officials warned residents not to consume milk from Valley Milk Simply Bottled because it could lead to infection with this rare, emerging flu virus. No illnesses have been reported so far. It was the second raw milk recall in California in two weeks. Raw Farm LLC of Fresno voluntarily recalled all of its raw milk and cream products on December 3 due to possible bird flu contamination. Valley Milk is 100 miles away from Raw Farm LLC. The USDA says the H5N1 virus was recently identified in a backyard poultry flock in Louisiana, making it the 50th state to report an outbreak. Almost 124 million birds have died of H5N1 since the disease first appeared in flocks in February 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 18, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Housing starts and permits at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Petroleum Status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST FOMC Interest Rate Decision at 1 p.m. CST followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference Weather A system moving through the Midwest is producing a band of heavy rain and thunderstorms from northeast Texas through the Ohio Valley early Wednesday morning. That band of rain will sink south throughout the day but weaken, while spreading showers through the East Coast as well. A clipper system is forming in the Canadian Prairies and will be producing heavier snow there and into the Northern Plains throughout the day. Some mixed precipitation may occur on the southern end of the snow band through Wednesday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 17, 2024 |

Economic Aid for Farmers in Jeopardy Legislators are working to try and pass a continuing resolution to keep the government funded, but there were rumblings over the weekend that essential aid for the nation’s farmers wouldn’t be included. Farm Policy News says Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow moved conservation dollars from the Inflation Reduction Act into the baseline for the farm bill. She’d like to take the majority of those funds and put them into a package for farmers immediately. However, Speaker Mike Johnson says the majority of the GOP conference wouldn’t support a proposed agreement that adds Inflation Reduction Act funding into the legislation’s baseline. House GOP leadership says this is a Democratic priority, even though many lawmakers on both sides of the aisle support the move. Ultra-conservative GOP members want to outright cut those IRA dollars and block any additional federal spending. Additionally, some key Republican leaders want more money included for direct farmer aid. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Pressuring Congress for Farm Assistance Several groups reacted to the news that a continuing resolution to keep the government funded didn’t include assistance for struggling farmers. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall called on farm-state legislators to oppose the bill if economic aid for farmers is missing. Kenneth Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association, says, “We are disappointed that Congress appears to be at an impasse over crucial economic assistance that farmers desperately need.” National Sorghum Producers Chair Amy France says while the assistance will not make producers whole, “It would be an essential step in helping farm families navigate difficult economic times.” National Association of Conservation Districts President Kim LaFleur says, “America’s producers urgently require help, and integrating IRA conservation investments has strong bipartisan support and would help.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew says Congress’s “time is short, and they must not walk away from their responsibility to rural America.” *********************************************************************************** Legislators want Verification of Used Cooking Oil Imports Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa joined bipartisan colleagues in demanding answers from the Environmental Protection Agency regarding used cooking oil imports. The lawmakers want information on the agency’s process for verifying the authenticity of the imports. Responding to a congressional probe, Senior Customs and Border Protection official Troy Miller says the CBP considers UCO imports as pure even when co-mingled with virgin vegetable oil, such as palm oil. Based on that admission, the senators are slamming the EPA’s existing verification process as meaningless. “Without a robust verification process, the credibility of the Renewable Fuel Standard is at risk, and American farmers are likely missing out on key market opportunities,” the legislators said in a letter. “Through August, the U.S. has imported a historic 3.2 billion pounds of UCO this year, which is enough product to displace about 270 million bushels of soybeans. American farmers should be first on the list.” *********************************************************************************** FCS Updates 2025 Ag Economy Outlook The Farm Credit Administration’s board received an update on economic issues affecting agriculture. The U.S. economy has continued to show modest growth through 2024, as gains in productivity support real wage growth and boost consumer spending. For agriculture, there’s a sharp divergence in returns for crop and livestock sectors that has become apparent as producers enter 2025. Cash grain farmers are seeing lower returns, with average incomes down sharply this year. In contrast, cattle and dairy farms are forecast to see strong income as lower feed costs benefit producers across the livestock sector. Specialty commodity producers continue to be exposed to fast-growing costs such as labor and interest on farm debt. Farmland values in most regions have been flat in real terms this year. Early indicators find increasing softness in farmland markets as values decline for low-quality land and the number of transactions falls. Premiums for metro-adjacent farmland have risen. *********************************************************************************** November Tractor and Combine Sales Fall The Association of Equipment Manufacturers released the November 2024 Ag Tractor/Combine Sales Report that shows lower numbers than November 2023. U.S. sales of tractors in all classes dropped 14.5 percent compared to the same time last year. U.S. combine sales remain soft, showing a decline of 24 percent year to date in 2024. “November’s sales of tractors and combines follow the same pattern of the last few months of softness in the market,” says Curt Blades, AEM Senior Vice President. “This slowdown can be traced back to high interest rates and uncertainty in the ag economy.” U.S. sales of 100-plus horsepower tractors took the biggest drop in November, down 37 percent from November 2023. In Canada, 40-100 horsepower tractors are down 22.6 percent compared to last year, and four-wheel drive tractor sales were closer to stable but still five percent lower. Overall, Canada tractor sales dropped 18.8 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** No Mexican Cattle Imports into U.S. Before Holidays Last week, the USDA reversed course on comments that it may let cattle imports from Mexico into the U.S. resume before the year-end holidays. It suspended those imports in November due to discovery of the New World screwworm in Mexico. The agency says it’s approved a second round of emergency funding to block the flesh-eating livestock pest from getting into the U.S. “Shipments will likely resume incrementally after the New Year, with a full resumption of live animal imports soon after the calendar turns to 2025,” says Dr. Rosemary Sifford, USDA’s Chief Veterinary Officer. Jenny Lester Moffit, the USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, had previously told Reuters that imports could still resume in late December. The USDA is reaching into Commodity Credit Corporation funding to aid in the fight against the screwworm in Mexico and Central America, Moffit added. It approved $109.8 million in funding last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 17, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets FOMC meeting begins, with interest rate decision Wednesday. U.S. Retail Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization at 8:15 a.m. CST Weather A weak system is entering the Plains on Tuesday, bringing some snow to the Northern Plains. It will connect with a leftover front from east Texas to the Ohio Valley where showers will increase Tuesday night into Wednesday while light snow continues across the Great Lakes.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 16, 2024 |

Almost All U.S. Farms are Family-Owned The USDA’s Economic Research Service’s 2024 edition of America’s Farms and Ranches at a Glance says most U.S. farms (86 percent) are small family farms. These farms operate on 41 percent of U.S. agricultural land and account for 17 percent of the total value of American production. Large-scale family farms accounted for 48 percent of the total value of production and 31 percent of agricultural land in 2023. In total, family farms accounted for about 96 percent of total farms and 83 percent of the total production in 2023. Large-scale farms accounted for the majority of the value of cash grains and soybeans (52 percent), cotton (71 percent), and dairy (77 percent). Small family farms produced 45 percent of the value of hay and 46 percent of the total value of U.S. poultry and egg output in 2023. Small farms produced 22 percent of the overall U.S. beef production. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Announces Yield Contest Winners The National Corn Growers Association announced the winners of the 2024 Yield Contest. All of the participants delivered outstanding yields, again showing the resilience and ingenuity that define U.S. agriculture. The Contest saw almost 7,800 entries from farmers in 45 states. Entrants across the ten production categories had yields averaging 284 bushels per acre. The highest yield for 2024 came from Charles City, Virginia, where David Hula produced 490.62 bushels per acre. The ground was in the Class H category (strip-till irrigated). “The Yield Contest continues to set the standard across the ag industry,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman, Jr. “This contest not only challenges farmers to showcase their expertise, but it also generates valuable agronomic data that drives continuous improvement and future success in agriculture.” Looking back to its beginnings in 1965, the NCGA’s Yield Contest launched with only 20 entrants. The complete list of winners is at ncga.com/YieldContest. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Corn, Soyoil Exports Outdo Previous Forecasts The USDA recently had to significantly boost its 2024-2025 export outlooks thanks to better-than-expected export sales for corn and soybeans. Last Tuesday’s WASDE shows record-low stocks to use for U.S. soybean oil. There was also a surprising number in corn ending stocks, which turned out to be smaller than the previous marketing year. Soybean oil sold for exporting in 2024-2025 totaled 416,356 metric tons as of November 28, the highest level in eight years for that date. Last week’s forecast surged 83 percent to 499,000 tons, or 1.1 billion pounds. That’s a three-year high point but still under the average for the last decade. Earlier this year, USDA predicted 2024-2025 U.S. corn ending stocks would surge 17 percent higher to 2.53 billion bushels. The WASDE had corn ending stocks for 2024-2025 at 1.738 billion bushels, down one percent from 2023-2024. Corn exports will jump six percent to 2.475 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Shipment Expected to Rise The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s monthly wheat outlook shows an expected jump in export forecasts because of weaker exports from Russia and the European Union. Wheat shipments will total 850 million bushels in the 2024-2025 marketing year that ends on May 31, 2025. That’s up from the prior outlook of 825 million bushels and well ahead of last year’s 707 million bushels. USDA says from June through October, wheat exports were reported at 366 million bushels, up 35 percent from the same time last year. The outlook report says the average farm price for wheat is $5.60 a bushel and is based on prices reported to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and expectations for prices from now through the end of May. “Futures prices have declined slightly amid improvements in winter wheat conditions, but global ending stocks are still projected at a nine-year low,” the government says. *********************************************************************************** CoBank Report Shows Forces Shaping the 2025 Rural Economy The U.S. continues benefiting from solid economic growth, low unemployment, and moderating inflation, and the overall economy will likely continue on that trajectory next year. However, the rural economic outlook is more uncertain. According to a comprehensive year-ahead outlook report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the high level of policy uncertainty facing rural industries adds to their already long list of headwinds. “Open access to export markets and labor availability are critically important for agricultural producers and processors,” says Rob Fox, director of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “Depending on how policy plays out, those two areas could be big challenges for 2025 and beyond.” That’s because the President-elect came out victorious on two main economic policy proposals: enact significant import tariffs and reduce immigration while deporting illegal immigrants. Meantime, falling feed costs and rising margins have renewed expansion interest in animal protein segments. Dairy processing investment will jump by $8 billion through 2026. *********************************************************************************** USB Elects Phillip Good as New Chair Farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board elected Phillip Good from Macon, Mississippi, as the 2025 Chair during its December meeting in St. Charles, Missouri. He’s joined by ten additional farmer-leaders to serve on the Executive Committee. “I’m honored to serve as chair of the United Soybean Board, but it’s all of us working together to achieve one common goal of bringing value back to the soybean farmer,” Good says. “I’m proud to work alongside 76 passionate directors on this board who are strategic thinkers in finding out what is going to give us the greatest return.” He also says that’s especially important because U.S. soybean farmers are in a desperate situation regarding production costs. “When I think about the opportunities that’ll create the most impact, I think about new export opportunities, new technologies, job creation, and feeding the world,” Good adds. “All of that will create a ripple effect.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 16, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Empire State Manufacturing survey at 7:30 a.m. CST S&P U.S. Services and Manufacturing PMI data at 9:45 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10:00 a.m. CST Weather A system's low pressure is moving through southern Canada, but scattered showers are developing across the Midwest on Monday, including thunderstorms near the Ohio River. Some areas of heavy rain will occur in this area Monday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 13, 2024 |

AFBF President Duvall Seeks Fix for H-2A Farm Labor Issues in 2025 Farm labor has been an ongoing issue for the ag industry. With Republicans in control of both the House and Senate beginning January 3rd and President Trump returning to the White House on January 20th, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall tells Hoosier Ag Today that he’ll be pushing lawmakers on Capitol Hill next year to revise the H-2A Visa program. The H-2A program allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire non-immigrants from different countries for agricultural services throughout the year. However, the program has not been modernized since 1986. H-2A workers in Indiana must be paid the Adverse Effect Wage Rate, which is $18.18 an hour. Meanwhile, the state’s minimum wage rate is $7.25 an hour. To complicate matters further, H-2A workers in other states may also be paid the Prevailing Wage, which is the average wage paid to similarly employed workers in a specific occupation in the area of intended employment. ****************************************************************************** Invasive Jumping Worms Expanding Territory into the Northeast and Midwest Native to central Asia and introduced to North America in the late 1800s, jumping worms have recently begun invading natural habitats in the Northeast and Midwest, spreading primarily through horticultural trade. There is also a possibility of their introduction through sale as baitworms, however this has not yet been documented in Canada. These invasive worms outcompete other earthworms and their castings degrade soil quality, leaving it inhospitable to many native plant species and susceptible to increased erosion. As they are voracious eaters, jumping worms quickly consume the top layer of organic material, making it difficult for plants to remain rooted and allowing nutrients to be washed away by rain. Despite their wide dispersal across the United States, knowledge and research gaps concerning their biology and ecology persist. More research into traits linked to their dispersal capacity, establishment and spread is needed to counter their invasion. ****************************************************************************** Reinke Unveils E3 Precision Center-pivot System New series claims increased water efficiency and streamlined maintenance. Reinke Manufacturing has unveiled its E3 precision series center pivot system — the third generation of Reinke Electrogator center-pivot systems. E3 takes things to the next level. It’s the first of its kind to have precision spacing from beginning to end. E3 is the first precision series of spans and end booms with uniform coupler spacing (in 30-inch and 60-inch intervals) to ensure a uniform water application rate the entire length of the system. The goal for E3 was to be as consistent and precise as possible. A wider distance between sprinkler locations of previous pivot models results in an increased nozzle size and more water applied to compensate. When the amount of water across the machine varies, it impacts the ability to be uniform. ****************************************************************************** Bird Flu Detected in Iowa Flock, Disaster Proclamation Extended The highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in a commercial turkey flock in Palo Alto County just days after the bird flu was detected in an egg-laying flock in Sioux County. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) announced the fifth detection of the H5N1 influenza virus this year on Sunday, and Gov. Kim Reynolds extended a disaster proclamation issued for Sioux County on Friday, to include Palo Alto County. IDALS announced Monday another case of HPAI was detected in Sioux County, also in a commercial egg-laying flock. The avian flu has also appeared in dairy cattle since spring 2024 and has affected nearly 60 humans who have come into contact with infected animals. The consumption of poultry and egg products remains safe, according to the department, as is the consumption of pasteurized dairy products. The USDA announced a new mandatory dairy testing program for the avian flu Dec. 6. ****************************************************************************** Judge Blocks Rule Strengthening Protections for Temporary Farmworkers Nationwide The regulation, which grants organizing and safety protections to H-2A visa holders, had already been overturned in a number of states. A federal court blocked a rule strengthening legal protections for temporary farmworkers from going into effect nationwide. The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi last month sided with farm groups, who argued the Department of Labor exceeded its authority when crafting a rule extending safety and organizing protections to H-2A visa holders. The decision comes after two previous court orders overturned the rule in a number of states and for certain grower groups. The American Farm Bureau Federation says it agrees that workers should be treated fairly and respectfully, but they also stressed that fairness to farmers is important and the DOL rule was overly broad to the point of being unlawful. ****************************************************************************** In a First, Arizona’s Attorney General Sues a Farm Over Water Use With agricultural overuse and drought draining aquifers across Arizona, the state’s chief law enforcement officer is suing Saudi Arabia-based Fondomonte. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes filed a nuisance lawsuit against an industrial agricultural operation Wednesday in a novel case that alleges the operation’s groundwater pumping is threatening public health and safety and the infrastructure of the surrounding community. The case targets Saudi Arabia-based Fondomonte Arizona LLC, which has farming operations in La Paz County on the state’s border with California that have become emblematic of Arizona’s water woes. The company has been the center of controversy in recent years, with its massive farms making international headlines as they grow alfalfa on state and private land to feed cattle in the Gulf kingdom with no government limits on the amount of water being pumped for the water-intensive crop.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 13, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Import and Export Price data at 7:30 a.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A burst of cold, arctic air that has found itself across the Corn Belt is already pushing eastward as temperatures rise in the Plains early Friday. That continues through the weekend. In the warm air, a small system will develop in the eastern Plains Friday night into Saturday, being a mix of precipitation types across the Upper Midwest, especially around Iowa.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 12, 2024 |

Food Prices Up Slightly in November The Food Price Index averaged 127.5 points in November 2024, up 0.5 percent from the October level, and reached its highest value since April 2023. The increase was driven by higher price quotations for dairy products and vegetable oil, which slightly outweighed declines in the meat, cereals, and sugar indexes. The Index was 5.7 percent higher than its corresponding value in November 2023. The number is also 21 percent below its peak of 160.2 points reached in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index averaged 111.4 points in November, down three points from October. The Vegetable Oil Price Index took the biggest jump, rising 11.4 points to 164.1 in November. The FAO Dairy Price Index was 139.9 points, up just under a full point from October. The Meat Price Index averaged 118.1 points in November, 0.9 points lower than in October, and the Sugar Price Index averaged 126.4 points, down 3.1 points. *********************************************************************************** Proposal to List Monarch Butterfly as Endangered The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed listing the Monarch Butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Farmers for Monarchs encourages producers to continue their conservation efforts. “Farmers and landowners play a critical role in monarch conservation, and this threatened listing proposal provides a way toward efforts that’ll benefit the monarch populations,” says Matt Mulica, senior project director at Keystone Policy Center, which facilitates Farmers for Monarchs. Ken Hartman, Jr., president of the National Corn Growers Association, says they look forward to providing input on protecting Monarch butterflies without disrupting critical agriculture activities that help feed and fuel the world. Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall says preserving natural surroundings for America’s wildlife has long been a priority for America’s farmers and ranchers. “The use of a 4(d) rule acknowledges the work farmers are already doing to protect the monarch while recognizing the need for flexibility in conservation efforts,” Duvall says. *********************************************************************************** TB Found in Northeast South Dakota Cattle Herd Bovine tuberculosis has been confirmed in a steer from South Dakota that was at a packing plant in Wisconsin. South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson says the infected steer was first identified in late October by meat inspectors during a routine inspection at the plant, and records linked the steer to a Hamlin County, South Dakota, feedlot that marketed the animal. Thompson says the TB infection was confirmed by the National Veterinary Surveillance Laboratory in Iowa last week. Thompson says her office is working with the feedlot owner, USDA officials, area veterinarians, and other producers who may have sold animals purchased by the feedlot to locate the steer’s original source herd. She also notes that precautions are being taken to protect the health of South Dakota’s cattle industry. Thompson says Bovine TB isn’t a threat to U.S. food safety because of milk pasteurization and comprehensive meat inspection programs. *********************************************************************************** MN Pork Producers Donate 90,000 Meals The Minnesota Pork Board donated almost 92,000 meals to Second Harvest Heartland, the Upper Midwest’s largest hunger relief organization. This donation reflects a continuing partnership between these organizations who are working together to provide high-quality protein and hunger relief to their state and region. The donation was presented by Olympic athletes Kassidy Cook and Sarah Bacon, active partners in the #CooknBacon promotion run by the Minnesota Pork Board. “We are so grateful for the Minnesota Pork Board’s continuing partnership, but it’s especially needed this year as neighbors deal with rising costs,” says Allison O’Toole, CEO of Second Harvest Heartland. “Prices for necessities like energy, housing, healthcare, and childcare continue climbing, and the more we pay those prices, the smaller our grocery budgets can get.” Todd Selvik, vice president of the MPB Board of Directors, says he’d like to thank Second Harvest Heartland for feeding families in Minnesota and the Midwest. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Respond to Proposed Dietary Guidelines Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, says his group thanks the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee for recognizing dairy’s role in a healthy diet. The committee continued recommending three servings of dairy for Americans two years and older. “The committee’s scientific review showed that reducing or eliminating dairy from the diet leads to undernourishment in key nutrients for millions of Americans,” Doud says. “The review also made clear that expanding the food group to include additional plant-based alternative beverages outside of fortified soy is not supported by scientific evidence.” This is especially important as the dietary guidelines greatly affect the food options available to children through school meals and other nutrition programs. “We are disappointed that the committee only recommends consumption of unflavored milk, especially as they acknowledge that flavored milk contains beneficial nutrients, and they didn’t find any connection between flavored milk and obesity risk,” he added. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Rural Jobs and Infrastructure USDA is investing $6.3 billion in rural and Tribal communities across 44 states to expand access to a clean and reliable electric grid, provide safe drinking water, and create good-paying jobs. “We know strong communities are rooted in their people,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These investments will build modern infrastructure that will attract employers to the nation’s smallest towns and most remote communities, creating jobs, vibrant Main Streets, and lasting economic growth for the people who live there.” More than 200 projects are being financed to strengthen the nation’s infrastructure in rural places, growing the American economy from the middle out and bottom up. For example, the agency is investing $5.7 billion in funding through the Electric Infrastructure Loan and Loan Guarantee Program to help utility providers and electric cooperatives build and improve electric infrastructure and smart-grid technologies in 23 states. For more information, go to rd.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 12, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Sales Report at 7:30 a.m. CST U.S. Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CST Oil Crops Outlook from ERS at 11 a.m. CST Feed and Wheat Outlooks from ERS at 2 p.m. CST Weather A burst of cold air has spread out through much of the country east of the Rockies for Thursday, being coldest in the Corn Belt. In the cold air, some light snow will occur and lake-effect snows will be prevalent east of the Great Lakes.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 11, 2024 |

USDA Cuts Corn Ending Stocks by 200 Million Bushels The USDA’s December WASDE Report shows a 2024-2025 U.S. corn outlook of greater corn used for ethanol, larger exports, and lower ending stocks. Corn used to produce ethanol was raised 50 million bushels to 5.5 billion. Exports rose by 150 million bushels. With no other use changes, corn ending stocks are reduced by 200 million bushels to 1.7 billion. The season-average corn price received by producers is steady at $4.10 a bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use projections are unchanged from last month. The U.S. season-average soybean price is forecast at $10.20 a bushel, down sixty cents from last month. This month’s 2024-2025 wheat outlook is for slightly larger supplies, unchanged domestic use, increased exports, and lower ending stocks. While projected wheat ending stocks are reduced by 20 million bushels to 795 million, it’s still 14 percent higher than last year. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $5.60 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Marketing Assistance Available for Specialty Crop Producers The Farm Service Agency’s $2 billion Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Program is now accepting applications from December 10, 2024, through January 8, 2025. The goal of the program is to help specialty crop producers expand markets and manage higher costs. “Specialty crop growers have typically faced higher marketing and handling costs relative to non-specialty crop producers due to the perishability of fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops, and herbs,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Through this marketing assistance program, we can expand U.S. specialty crop consumption and markets by providing specialty crop producers the financial support they need to help them engage in activities that broaden and enhance strategies and opportunities for marketing their commodities.” The program helps specialty crop producers meet higher marketing costs related to things like the perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops, herbs, and others. For information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn Inspections Improve Inspections of corn for overseas delivery increased week to week while bean and wheat assessments declined during the week ending on December 5. USDA data says corn inspections rose to 1.05 million metric tons, up from almost 949,000 tons a week earlier and well above the 725,000 tons assessed during the same week last year. Examinations for soybeans for export fell to 1.62 million tons, down from 2.11 million tons the prior week, but still above the 999,790 tons inspected at the same point in 2023. Wheat inspections were reported at 226,513 tons, down from 298,550 the previous week and 293,700 tons last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 12.1 million metric tons of corn, up from 9.19 million tons during the same period last year. Bean assessments are at 23.4 million tons, up from 19.8 million last year. Wheat assessments are currently 11.2 million tons. *********************************************************************************** Winter Forecast Features Pattern Shifts Following a frigid start to December across much of the eastern U.S. that featured feet of lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes, AccuWeather long-range experts have forecasted a temperature tug of war in the updated winter forecast. “We’re going to see waves of colder air through the winter season,” says long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok. “Get ready for a lot of ups and downs.” December kicked off with an arctic blast in the eastern U.S., leaving much of the West mild and dry. The pattern is flipping in mid-December with a thaw and mild weather in the east and central U.S., as well as rain and snow in parts of the West. “We’re favoring heavier rain and snow in the Pacific Northwest and occasionally in Northern California,” Pastelok said. “It could turn colder for the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Midwest, but not as intense as the start of the month.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Responds to Dietary Guidelines Report The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reiterated the important role of beef in a healthy diet and responded to the questionable advice published in the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s Scientific Report. Despite a wealth of high-quality scientific evidence that beef has an important role to play in a healthy diet, the committee is advising USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services that federal nutrition guidelines should include a reduction in red meat consumption. “Most Americans already eat beef within the Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ recommended levels for a healthy diet,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Public health advice should be based on the totality of scientific evidence.” He also says the Advisory Committee ignored robust and rigorous scientific evidence about beef’s essential nutrients and the foundational, positive role it plays in health as a preferred protein in a variety of healthy diets for all Americans. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Meal Exports Set a New Record U.S. soy remains America’s number one agricultural export, adding $31.2 billion to the U.S. economy in marketing year 2023-2024. Total soy export volumes were down from the prior year at 60.8 million metric tons, partly due to fewer carry-in stocks and the expansion of domestic crush. However, U.S. soybean meal exports set a record based on increased supply, strong demand, competitive prices, and its nutritional advantage. In the 2023-2024 marketing year, U.S. soybean meal exports totaled a record 14.4 million metric tons, valued at $6.7 billion. This volume was up 10 percent from the prior year and 17 percent higher than the five-year average. The Philippines bought the most soybean meal at 2.6 million metric tons during the marketing year, valued at $6.7 billion. Mexico and Canada were second and third, respectively. Demand is rising in other countries, including Vietnam, where purchases rose 110 percent to almost 744,000 metric tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 11, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index for November at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including Ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST ERS Feed Grains Database update at 11 a.m. CST Weather A strong cold front is pushing through the Corn Belt on Wednesday. It is not producing much precipitation, but the cold air funneling in behind it is significant and enough to squeeze out some light snow and turn on the lake-effect snow machine later Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 10, 2024 |

USDA Begins National Milk Testing Strategy for H5N1 The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced the start of its National Milk Testing Strategy to address H5N1 infections in U.S. dairy herds. The measure builds on steps already taken by USDA and its federal and state partners since H5N1 was first round in dairy cattle in March 2024. The Federal Order and guidance requires that unpasteurized milk samples nationwide be shared with USDA for testing. The guidance was developed with significant input from state, veterinary, and public health officials and will facilitate comprehensive H5N1 surveillance of the nation’s milk supply and dairy herds. The new Federal Order requires sharing raw milk samples upon request from any entity responsible for a dairy farm, such as a milk transporter, transfer station, or processing facility. Second, it requires owners with positive cattle to provide information that enables contact tracing. Finally, it requires labs and veterinarians to report positive tests to USDA. *********************************************************************************** EU Reaches Significant Trade Agreement Late last week, the European Union reached an agreement with Brazil, Argentina, and the three other nations that make up the Mercosur trade alliance. Even as France says it will push the controversial trade deal off course, the agreement ends 25 years’ worth of negotiations. The deal will create one of the world’s largest free trade zones if it gets approved. The free trade zone would cover a market of 780 million people who represent nearly a quarter of the global gross domestic product. However, critics in France, the Netherlands, and other countries with big dairy and beef industries say the pact would subject their farmers to unfair competition and lead to environmental damage. Proponents say the agreement would save businesses approximately $4.26 billion in duties each year, cut red tape delays, and remove tariffs on a large variety of products. Uruguay officials hail the agreement as a truly historic milestone. *********************************************************************************** October Red Meat Export Pace Above 2023 Levels U.S. beef and pork exports posted year-over-year increases in October. That’s according to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Beef exports during October totaled 105,269 metric tons, up one percent from last year, while the value jumped three percent to $860.4 million. From January through October, beef export value was four percent higher than last year at $8.68 billion despite a two percent drop in volume to 1.066 million metric tons. Pork exports reached 252,411 metric tons during the month, three percent higher than last year, while value also rose three percent to $710.4 million. Through the first ten months of 2024, pork exports rose five percent from a year ago to 2.49 million metric tons, valued at $7.07 billion, six percent above 2023. For the year, pork exports are projected to pass three million metric tons for the first time, exceeding 2020’s volume record of 2.98 million. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Endorsed Tax Relief Passes Senate The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association thanked the Senate for passing the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act last week. In addition to providing much-needed relief to victims of hurricanes, this legislation provides tax relief for cattle producers who received payments due to wildfires. Those payments were counted as taxable income, meaning producers who already suffered from disasters were hurt again by having their relief payments taxed. “It only adds to the pain of destruction when the payments meant to help you recover come with a tax bill,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “With the devastating hurricanes and wildfires the cattle industry suffered over the past several years, helping producers stay in business is NCBA’s top priority.” The Act addresses limitations in casualty losses and allows producers to take greater deductions for disaster-related losses. The bill passed in the House, so it heads to the president’s desk for a signature. *********************************************************************************** USB Investments Yield an Impressive Return The United Soybean Board continues to deliver economic returns to U.S. soybean farmers through strategic investment. That’s despite a challenging economic landscape of low commodity prices and tight margins. This remains critical to ensure farmers receive measurable value on-farm and through expanded opportunities. A recent study confirms the soy checkoff’s positive return of at least 4.5-1 on investment across the categories of export market development, domestic demand-enhancing research, on-farm production research, and soybean promotion. Cumulatively, soy-checkoff-funded initiatives at the national and state level supported almost 31,000 jobs, added $2.6 billion in labor income, contributed $5.9 billion in total value, and increased the U.S. GDP by $9.8 billion. “We focus on maximizing the impact of every dollar invested by creating new revenue streams for farmers, building premium markets, and establishing partnerships here and abroad where farmers can see tangible returns,” says Phillip Good, USB’s Chair of the Audit Committee. *********************************************************************************** USGC Issues Corn Harvest Quality Report The U.S. Grains Council’s 2024-2025 Corn Harvest Quality Report says the 2024 U.S. corn crop is projected to be the third largest on record with the highest 100-kernel weight in the history of the report. The 2024 crop also has lower broken corn and foreign material (BCFM), lower total damage, and lower moisture than in the last five years. Favorable growing season conditions contributed to the highest projected average yield on record and promoted good grain quality. The report showed that 89.2 percent of the 620 yellow corn samples taken from the top 12 corn-producing states in the country met all the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade, and 96.2 percent met the grade factor requirements for U.S. No. 2 grade corn. A test weight of 59.8 pounds per bushel is the largest test weight in the history of this report. The average U.S. aggregate BCFM in 2024 was 0.6 percent

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 10, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Productivity and Cost Report at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA December World Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report at 11 a.m. CST Weather A front and system is reorganizing in the Southeast on Tuesday, which will spread showers northeast throughout the rest of the day. An arctic cold front is pushing through the Canadian Prairies and will move through the Northern Plains later Tuesday, ushering in a rush of cold, arctic air that will spread through the Corn Belt and Northeast over the next couple of days.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 9, 2024 |

Corn Sales for Export Surge, Soybean Sales Decline Sales of corn to overseas buyers jumped week to week while soybean sales declined, according to the Ag Department. Corn sales in the seven days that ended on Nov. 28 jumped to 1.73 million metric tons, up 63% from the previous week and 4% from the prior four-week average, the agency said. Mexico was the big buyer at 392,400 metric tons, followed by Japan at 357,700 tons and an unnamed country at 283,600 tons. South Korea was in for 212,700 tons and Costa Rica bought 84,200 tons. The total would’ve been higher, but Guatemala canceled orders for 27,700 tons. Exports for the week rose 3% to 1.05 million tons, USDA said. Soybean sales fell 7% week over week to 2.31 million metric tons, the government said. That’s still up 17% from the average for this time of year. *********************************************************************************** One Mutation Could Make H5N1 a Greater Threat, Researchers Say While there has been no sign of person-to-person spread of bird flu, researchers now say that a single mutation in the H5N1 avian influenza virus could enhance the virus’ ability to attach to human cells. That could potentially increase the possibility of transmission among humans, according to a study led by a team of scientists at the Scripps Research Institute. These findings highlight the need for continuous surveillance of emerging mutations in avian and bovine clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses, said the study, published in the journal Science. An editor’s summary attached to the study indicated in nature, the occurrence of this single mutation could be an indicator of a human pandemic risk. Public health officials say genomic analysis of the H5N1 virus have found no changes that would make the virus more communicable among humans. They say the risk to the general public is low. *********************************************************************************** Water Resource Development Act Passed Every two years and authorizes the improvement and maintenance of our nation’s inland waterways, ports, and flood and storm protection via the Water Resource Development Act (WRDA). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the designated federal agency responsible for the implementation of WRDA legislation. If passed by both the House and the Senate, it will continue the track record of Congress passing a biennial WRDA since 2014. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 48% of U.S. soybean exports are transported by barge – primarily to export terminals along the lower Mississippi River. Barge transportation is one of predominant reasons U.S. soybean farmers are so competitive in the international marketplace. Investing in the inland waterway system and ports is simultaneously an investment in the success of soybean farmers. One barge is capable of transporting up to 57,000 bushels of soybeans – the equivalent of 62 semi-trucks. A typical 15 barge tow can therefore transport up to 855,000 bushels – the equivalent of 940 semi-trucks. *********************************************************************************** Clemson University Breaks Ground on New Vet School Clemson University officials and state leaders have broken ground on the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a historic moment for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina as the only college of veterinary medicine in the state continues to take shape. The new facilities are named in honor of State Senator Harvey Peeler. “Senator Peeler has passionately supported the development of a college of veterinary medicine for more than 20 years, and his efforts throughout the process have been instrumental in developing this new college at Clemson,” Clemson Board Chair Kim Wilkerson said. “In recognition of his contributions to this historic development for Clemson and the entire state, our board is excited to name this new college in his honor.” Peeler, the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a cattle farmer in his hometown of Gaffney, said he has experienced firsthand the need for large and small animal veterinarians in the state. *********************************************************************************** Republican Governors Write to Congressional Leadership about Farm Bill Republican governors have written Congress on the urgent need to update the 2018 Farm Bill. In the letter, the state leaders emphasized how the agriculture industry has experienced high inflation, high input costs, high interest rates, catastrophic weather events, natural disasters, regulatory uncertainty, and a growing agricultural trade deficit. High inflation has significantly increased the costs of essentials like seed, fertilizer, and fuel, with some input prices rising over 30% in just the past year. Unprecedented droughts, fire, floods, and hurricanes have devastated crops and livestock across the country. Elevated interest rates are making it more difficult for farmers to secure the financing they need for operations, while supply chain disruptions continue to hinder access to critical resources. American farmers and ranchers are the most productive, effective, and efficient producers, with each farm, on average, feeding 150 people globally. In the vast majority of states throughout the country, agriculture serves as the largest industry. Farmers and ranchers serve as the best stewards of our land, preserving our natural resources for generations to come, ensuring rural communities continue to thrive. Farmers are projected to lose up to $35 billion in lost profit this year alone. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Enhance Support for Farmers with Increased Replant Payments USDA is bolstering support for farmers facing crop setbacks by announcing an increase in replant payments for most producers beginning with the 2026 crop year. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to farmers who need to replant insured crops damaged by early insurable causes of loss. The enhancement in replant payments underscores the Risk Management Agency’s commitment to sustain agricultural productivity and economic stability. Replant payments assist farmers with the financial burden of replanting, offering them a pathway to recover more than the insurance indemnity alone potentially would provide. Replant payment factors have not been updated since they were established in the 1990s. RMA reviewed replant payment factors to ensure they reflect current replanting costs. The agency determined most small grains and coarse grains crops will receive a significant increase. RMA will consider future updates based on new data, further analysis, and stakeholder feedback from these changes.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 9, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Traders await Tuesday's WASDE, Crop Production reports. Weather A two-part system is moving through the U.S. on Monday. The first part is among some warmer air in the East, bringing scattered rain showers. The second piece has some colder air with it and is producing some light snow and breezy winds across the north.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday December 6, 2024 |

Cattlemen Relieved by Court Decision The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hailed a nationwide preliminary injunction blocking the Corporate Transparency Act from being enforced on January 1, 2025. The ruling from the East Texas U.S. District Court protects millions of family farmers and ranchers from onerous reporting requirements imposed by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, a division of the Treasury Department. “The CTA requires millions of family farmers and ranchers to file complex paperwork and disclose beneficial ownership information with the federal government under penalty of severe fines and jail time,” says NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Cattle producers are relieved that this mandate is on hold while the law is being considered by the courts.” The injunction prevents the CTA from taking effect until the outcome of a case brought by a Texas small business that challenged the legality of the Corporate Transparency Act. “We’ll be working with Congress on a solution,” he added. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Expanding Broadband Access Passes Senate Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced their “Access to Capital Creates Economic Strength and Supports Rural America Act” unanimously passed in the Senate. The ACCESS Act expands rural broadband access by easing the burden of regulatory costs for smaller broadband providers that rural communities rely on. Baldwin says access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury. “It’s a necessity for rural Americans to work, attend school, run their businesses, manage their farms, and connect with people around the world,” she said. “For too long, small providers, often in rural areas, get caught up in burdensome regulations, which stopped them from reaching more people.” The legislation provides regulatory relief to rural telecommunications service providers by allowing them to submit streamlined financial reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of the NTCA – the Rural Broadband Association, thanked them for getting the bill through the Senate. *********************************************************************************** USDA Increasing Replant Payments USDA is boosting support for farmers facing crop setbacks by announcing an increase in replant payments for most producers beginning with the 2026 crop year. This initiative will provide financial assistance to farmers who need to replant insured crops damaged by early insurable causes of loss. “The enhancement in replant payments underscores the Risk Management Agency’s commitment to sustain agricultural productivity and economic stability,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Replant payments assist farmers with the financial burden of replanting, offering them a pathway to recover more than the insurance indemnity alone potentially would provide.” Replant payment factors have not been updated since they were established in the 1990s. RMA reviewed replant payment factors to ensure they reflect current replanting costs. The agency determined most small grains and coarse grains crops will receive a significant increase. RMA will announce the new replant payments with additional crop insurance improvements in the summer of 2025. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Down From a Record High The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output fell from a record high while inventories increased in the seven days ending on November 29. Production declined to an average of 1.073 million barrels a day last week. The agency says that’s down from a record 1.119 million the previous week and was the lowest level since October 11. In the Midwest, output averaged 1.014 million barrels a day, down from 1.048 million the week prior and the lowest in the region since October 18. Gulf Coast production plunged to an average of 22,000 barrels a day from 34,000 barrels the prior week. East Coast output held steady during the week at 12,000 barrels a day, and Rocky Mountain production was steady at 15,000 barrels a day. The only rising output was on the West Coast, averaging 10,000 barrels a day, up from 9,000 the previous week. Inventories rose to 23.003 million barrels. *********************************************************************************** Deere Announces More Iowa Layoffs John Deere has another round of layoffs scheduled at its plant in Iowa. The facility in Waterloo Works, Iowa, is the company’s largest plant. The state’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, website says the company will lay off more than 100 workers effective on January 5, 2025. It’s the sixth round of layoffs by Deere in Waterloo, Iowa, a focal point for tractor manufacturing. It’s cut a total of more than 1,000 workers as farm income projections for 2025 lag, depressing demand for new equipment. Deere’s Waterloo operation currently has 4,700 total employees, with about 2,700 working in production and maintenance jobs, according to the company. “As we recently said in our fourth-quarter earnings report, difficult market conditions will result in lower demand for our equipment, with net income down $3 billion in fiscal year 2024,” says Deere. “We need to continue making adjustments to remain globally competitive.” *********************************************************************************** Virus Making Things Difficult in U.S. Poultry South Dakota State University researchers are working to develop a vaccine for a new strain of a highly contagious disease that’s hitting the U.S. poultry industry. Avian metapneumovirus (meta-new-mo-virus), or aMPV, is an upper respiratory tract viral infection that affects all types of poultry but is most harmful to turkeys. The virus is divided into four subgroups, including A, B, C, or D. The U.S. had previously experienced outbreaks in subgroup C. Last January, an SDSU research team identified the first known instance of aMPV subgroup B after testing a sample from an outbreak in a North Carolina turkey flock. The news of a subgroup B outbreak was a shock to America’s $67 billion poultry industry. Four months after identifying the virus, it’s spread to all of the major poultry-producing regions in the U.S. Reports from Minnesota, the country’s largest turkey producer, include egg shortages and thousands of dead birds.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday December 5, 2024 |

Texas Court Strikes Down Corporate Transparency Act A Texas federal court halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act’s beneficial ownership reporting requirements that included America’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. The court held the CTA as likely unconstitutional, so it issued a preliminary injunction barring the government from enforcing the Act and its reporting requirements against anyone. Before the ruling, small businesses that met certain criteria would have had to file reports with the Treasury Department by January 1, 2025, or risk fines and criminal penalties. The preliminary relief will remain in effect until the conclusion of legal proceedings, at which point the court may enter a permanent injunction. In the meantime, the government is expected to appeal the preliminary injunction. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says unless and until an appellate court overrules or narrows the injunction, no businesses are obligated to comply with the reporting requirements. Congress enacted the CTA on January 1, 2021. *********************************************************************************** Farm Income Forecast Shows Trouble for U.S. Agriculture The USDA’s release of the 2024 Farm Sector Income Forecast shows lower income for U.S. farmers and ranchers. House Ag Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) and Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) say the income update underscores what Ag Committee Republicans in the House and Senate have been warning about for two years. “America’s farmers and ranchers are in serious trouble, and the outlook remains grim,” they said in a statement. “From 2023 to today, row crop producers alone have lost more than $50 billion and stand to lose even more next year.” They also stressed that immediate action is required to stabilize the farm economy and prevent a crisis that will only get more expensive to address over time. “Reauthorizing a five-year farm bill with significant improvements to the safety net is critical to restore certainty for our producers,” they added. “Farmers and ranchers deserve better.” *********************************************************************************** Court Halts GE Crop Introductions without Oversight Activist groups called it a “precedential victory” for food and environmental safety when a federal district court ruled that genetically engineered organisms must be regulated. The ruling overturns the 2020 rule overhaul by the first Trump administration that eliminated most government oversight over GE crops, trees, and grasses. “This is a victory on behalf of farmers, the planet, and scientific integrity,” says George Kimbrel, legal director for the lead plaintiff Center for Food Safety. “USDA tried to hand over its job to Monsanto and the pesticide industry and the Court held that capitulation contrary to both law and science.” The plaintiffs say the ruling is a sharp rebuke of the Trump administration to almost eliminate oversight of all GE technology. The plaintiffs in the case included the National Family Farm Coalition, Friends of the Earth, the Pesticide Action Network, and several others. All were represented by the Center for Food Safety. *********************************************************************************** USDA, FDA Looking at Clarification of Food Labeling The Food and Drug Administration and the USDA announced a joint request for information about food date labeling, which includes the use of terms like “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By.” The information request asks for data on industry practices and preferences for date labeling, research results on consumer perceptions of date labeling and any impact date labeling may have on food waste and grocery costs. “Confusion over a multitude of different date labeling terms on food products accounts for about 20 percent of food waste in the home,” says FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones. “We look forward to gathering information to determine how date labeling can make it easier for consumers to know whether a food is still good to eat and avoid food waste.” Both agencies currently recommend that food industry members voluntarily apply the “Best if Used By” quality-based food date label. *********************************************************************************** Administration Won’t Finalize 45Z Guidance Biden administration officials won’t finalize guidelines on new clean fuel production tax credits intended for the airline and biofuel industries before the officials leave office in January. Three sources told Reuters that casts significant doubt on the future of a key piece of the president’s climate goals. The tax credit was due to take effect on January 1, 2025, but a lack of detailed guidance from the Treasury Department would make the program dormant. The credit initially was supposed to help drive the production of three billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuels by 2030. Air travel contributes 2.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, which makes it a big part of U.S. climate policy. The Treasury Department still says it will issue the needed guidance before January 20 that will enable producers to access that credit during the new year. Biofuel companies wanted a finalized program in place by that date. *********************************************************************************** Tyson, Cargill Announce Layoffs A company letter released this week by the state of Minnesota says Cargill will permanently terminate almost 500 employees in the state, which is home to the company’s corporate headquarters. The terminations will begin on February 5. Cargill recently announced it would cut approximately five percent of its overall staff after revenue took a hit in its most recent fiscal year thanks to a big slump in crop prices. Also, Tyson Foods announced the closure of its Kansas Meat Plant. Over 800 employees will lose their jobs in Emporia, Kansas, as the company closes its marinated proteins and ground beef plant. Farm Policy News says Tyson has notified the state of Kansas in a recent letter. “After careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to close our beef and pork non-harvest processing facility in Kansas to help increase our operational efficiency,” says a Tyson spokesperson. “We understand the difficulty this presents.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 4, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Highest Since 2021 Farmer sentiment jumped again in November as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 30 points to 145. That’s the highest level of farmer optimism since May 2021. The Future Expectations index saw the largest jump, rising 37 points to 1161, while the Current Conditions Index increased 18 points to 113. The November sentiment boost reflects growing optimism about a more favorable regulatory and tax environment for agriculture following the November election. Optimism about the overall U.S. ag sector also surged as 34 percent of farmers anticipate good times financially in the next 12 months, more than double the October rate. The improving sentiment carried over to their investment outlook. The Farm Capital Investment Index rose 13 points in November to 55, which was the highest level since May 2021. The Short and Long-Term Farmland Value Expectation Indexes dropped by five and three points, respectively, but both remain strong. *********************************************************************************** Farm Sector Profits Forecast to Fall in 2024 Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast at $149.7 billion in calendar year 2024, down by $6 billion, or 4.1 percent, relative to 2023. Inflation-adjusted farm income is forecast to drop by $9.5 billion, or 6.3 percent. Despite the predicted decline, net farm income in 2024 would be 16 percent above the 20-year average of $121.4 billion. Cash receipts from the sale of agricultural commodities are forecast to decrease by $4 billion (0.8 percent) from 2023 to $516.9 billion in 2024. Total crop receipts are expected to drop by $25 billion, or nine percent, from 2023, led by lower receipts for corn and soybeans. Direct government payments are forecast to fall by $1.7 billion (13.6 percent) from 2023 to $10.6 billion in 2024. Total animal product receipts are expected to increase by $21 billion (8.4 percent) following increases in the receipts for cattle, calves, eggs, milk, broilers, and hogs. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill and Disaster Help on the Table in Congress? Some lawmakers in the lame-duck session of Congress want to include specific provisions to help commodity farmers who weren’t hit by a disaster in any potential disaster aid packages. Farm Policy News says while many farmers weren’t hit by disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, they have experienced significant price decreases for their commodities. Congress also has to deal with another potential shutdown and is said to be looking at another short-term extension that would put most major funding decisions into Fiscal Year 2025 for the new Congress and President-elect Donald Trump. Some of the House Republican leadership plans to attach a one-year extension of the farm bill to the Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded. Reports say there is also a chance they’ll add the farm bill to an annual defense authorization bill, which is also a must-pass package to handle this month, but most lean toward the CR. *********************************************************************************** Rural Broadband Association Pleased with Supreme Court Decision NTCA, the Rural Broadband Association, was pleased that the Supreme Court announced it would review a decision from the Fifth Circuit Appeals Court regarding the federal Universal Service Fund. Specifically, the nation’s highest court will look into the constitutionality of the mechanism for contributions to the Universal Service Fund. “The Fifth Circuit Court’s decision is contrary to Supreme Court precedent and the decision of several other appeals courts, and it threatens to undermine valuable universal service programs,” the NCTA says. “For many decades, those programs have served to promote the availability and affordability of critical communications service for millions of rural and low-income consumers, rural health care facilities, and schools across the nation.” The association will present arguments in defense of the USF contribution mechanism as the case moves forward and ultimately dispels the uncertainty that these challenges have created in furthering the nation’s mission of universal service. *********************************************************************************** EPA Rule Would Revoke Most Uses of Insecticide The Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed rule to revoke tolerances for chlorpyrifos, which establishes the amount of a pesticide that’s allowed on food. This rule revokes all tolerances for chlorpyrifos, except for those tolerances associated with the 11 food and feed crops that would remain registered. EPA says it’s taking this action in response to a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. “EPA continues to prioritize the health of children,” says Michal Freedhoff of the EPA. “This proposed rule is a critical step forward as we work to reduce chlorpyrifos in or on food and to better protect people, including infants and children, from exposure to chemicals that are harmful to human health.” Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide that was used in a large variety of ways in agriculture, including soybeans, fruit and nut trees, vegetables, and other row crops, as well as many non-food uses. *********************************************************************************** Upper Mississippi River Navigation Closes for the Year The Army Corps of Engineers in the St. Paul, Minnesota, District, saw the last barge of the year depart Lock and Dam 2 on December 1, ending the 2024 navigation season on the Upper Mississippi River. Traditionally, the last tow departing Minnesota’s capital city heading south of Lock and Dam 2, near Hastings, Minnesota, has marked the unofficial end to the navigation season. The last tow to leave St. Paul usually occurs around the last week of November or the first week of December. As they close down the 2024 navigation season, St. Paul District staff are busy this winter with maintenance projects scheduled at Locks and Dams 7 and 9 for miter gate anchorage bar replacement, Lock and Dam 2 for guide wall repairs, and Locks and Dams 5 and 5A for gate maintenance. The district maintains a nine-foot navigation channel and 13 locks and dams from Minneapolis to Guttenberg, Iowa.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday December 4, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets ISM Services and Factory Orders at 9 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report incl. ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Fed Chair Jerome Powell press conference at 12:40 p.m. CST Weather A big clipper system is moving through Ontario on Wednesday, bringing light to moderate snow across the northern Great Lakes into the Northeast. A rush of cold air will be flowing in behind it. Strong winds will usher in that colder air today and bring about some streaks of light snow for the Midwest. A small system is bringing scattered showers to the Gulf Coast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 3, 2024 |

Economists Forecast a Drop in Land Prices Lower returns to rented land and higher interest rates began signaling the potential for falling farmland prices in 2023. Farmdoc from the University of Illinois says those signals are continuing, with the current fundamentals suggesting land value reductions of approximately three percent in 2025. A three percent drop would be in line with observed adjustments since the 1980s as well as expectations from professional farm managers who were surveyed this year. On the other hand, there are valid arguments supporting continued strength in farmland prices. For example, the average cash rent in Illinois was $269 per acre in 2024, an increase of ten dollars an acre, or 3.9 percent, from 2023. Average Illinois cash rents have risen by 21 percent since 2020 after a period of relative stability from 2015 to 2020. The average Illinois land values this year followed the same trend, rising almost three percent (2.7) from 2023. *********************************************************************************** Trade Mission to Morocco Underway Daniel Whitley, the administrator of the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, arrived in Casablanca to begin a USDA-sponsored trade mission. He’s leading a delegation of almost 50 U.S. agribusinesses and trade groups and 14 state ag departments to expand U.S. farm and food exports to Morocco and other West African markets. Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. U.S. sales of farm and food products to the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of all American exports to the continent. American agricultural exports to Morocco have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 2006. “I’m honored to lead the delegation to Casablanca as we work together to strengthen our vital connections,” Whitley said. The country offers a stable market and growing economy, and it serves as a key distribution hub for the African continent and is a major importer of bulk commodities. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Sustainability Alliance Highlights Progress The 2024 Fall Meeting of the Dairy Sustainability Alliance emphasized the industry’s collective efforts to meet sustainability targets. The Alliance says the industry will accomplish its goals through adopting new technologies, best practices, and measurement tools. The meeting brought together more than 350 representatives from the dairy value chain, including nearly 40 dairy farmers, to collaborate on advancing sustainability across the industry. The Alliance is a multi-stakeholder initiative led by the checkoff-funded Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. Presentation topics during the meeting included shopper attitudes around sustainability, the FARM environmental stewardship program, the dairy conservation navigator platform, and many others. “U.S. dairy is truly walking the walk with significant progress to celebrate and by continuing to learn as there’s more work to do,” says Sarah Hanson, executive lead for the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. “We will continue building our collective knowledge, navigating challenges, and providing solutions for our producers.” *********************************************************************************** Consumer Institute Advocates for AM Radio The American Consumers Institute is the latest organization to voice strong support for the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act. Nate Scherer, policy analyst for the group, says AM radio is vital for ensuring public safety and maintaining access to vital information for millions of Americans. More than 80 million Americans rely on AM radio each month for programming that includes weather updates, traffic reports, sports, spiritual content, and emergency alerts. “Policymakers must recognize the irreplaceable benefits of AM radio,” Scherer says. “This isn’t about nostalgia or entertainment, but about public safety and ensuring that all Americans, especially those in underserved communities, have access to vital information.” The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act has significant support, with 262 co-sponsors in the House and a supermajority in the Senate. If the bill doesn’t pass in this Congress, which ends in early January, it starts all over in the next session. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Sheep Producers Heading to New Zealand The University of Wyoming Sheep Program recently announced the “Sheep Innovation Exchange: Wyoming to New Zealand.” This international program gives Wyoming sheep producers and industry entrepreneurs a chance to gain fresh insights by engaging with global peers who face similar challenges. Exchange participants will travel to New Zealand to explore the country’s renowned sheep industry. For five days, they’ll tour essential industry sites like genetic improvement facilities and value-added lamb and wool marketing operations. “Sometimes, gaining a fresh perspective on challenges and opportunities requires connecting with people who face similar circumstances in other parts of the world,” says Whit Stewart, UW Extension Sheep Specialist. “We intend to foster new ideas and strengthen the future of Wyoming’s sheep industry.” The Sheep Innovators Exchange will take place from July 12-18, 2025. Participants must arrive in New Zealand by July 12, and programmed events begin on July 14. Go to uwagnews.com for information. *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Support Ag Career Pipeline Farm Foundation and the National 4-H Council recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a focus on collaboration in leadership, education, and youth workforce readiness for young people. The two organizations will align on career exploration, leadership training, and skill-building opportunities for youth through the Farm Foundation’s Next Generation programs and 4-H’s recently launched Beyond Ready Initiative. This collaboration will help strengthen young learners’ interest in food and agriculture career pathways as early as elementary school. Additionally, it will help create a ready pipeline of future leaders as they graduate high school and college. “The extended partnership with Farm Foundation further strengthens our ability to prepare young people for success in agriculture, food science, and beyond,” says Jill Bramble, president and CEO of the National 4-H Council. “Our collaboration will equip youth with the leadership, skills, and confidence they need to be Beyond Ready for the workforce of tomorrow.”

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday December 3, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets No major Ag reports, but the ERS will release its highlights from their December 2024 Farm Income Forecast at 10 a.m. CST It is also slated to be a quiet day for major economic reports, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release its Job Openings report at 9 a.m. CST Weather Relatively quiet conditions are noted for most of the U.S. for Tuesday. However, cold air moving across the Great Lakes continues the lake-effect snow from last week. A clipper building in the Canadian Prairies will graze northern areas of the country with some snow Tuesday and Wednesday as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 2, 2024 |

Mexico Threatens Retaliatory Tariffs After U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to impose 25 percent import duties on Mexican goods, President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico could retaliate with its own tariffs. Trump says the tariff on Mexican imports will go into effect if the flow of drugs and migrants across the border doesn’t stop. While Sheinbaum says she’s willing to engage in talks on the issues Trump mentioned, she called drugs a “U.S. problem.” Farm Policy News says Sheinbaum’s response was, “One tariff followed by another in response, and so on until we put at risk common businesses.” What she’s referring to are businesses like U.S. automakers that have plants on both sides of the border. However, retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods often target the agriculture and food industry, which Mexico did in 2018 in the lead-up to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. Canada and Mexico are also significant exporters of agricultural goods to America. *********************************************************************************** Kentucky Judge Blocks H-2A Worker Protection Rules A federal judge issued an injunction against the Biden administration’s expanded protections for farmers in the U.S. under the H-2A program. The injunction, issued by a U.S. District Judge in Kentucky, applies in Ohio, West Virginia, Alabama, and Kentucky. Plaintiffs in the case argued that the Department of Labor rules would allow foreign workers to unionize. The American Farm Bureau and partners were also issued a preliminary injunction by the U.S. District Court in Mississippi, preventing the DOL from enforcing its Workers Protection Rule. “Farmers appreciate the men and women who choose to work on their farms, and they take seriously the responsibility of ensuring a safe workplace,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “While workers should be treated fairly and respectfully, we also believe the DOL rule was overly broad to the point of being unlawful.” The AFBF’s lawsuit was the first to stop key aspects of the rule for all farmers. *********************************************************************************** Seminar Helps Exporters Navigate the Cuban Market U.S. red meat exports are growing in Cuba due in part to an expansion of private-sector buying. To help exporters capitalize on the opportunity, the U.S. Meat Export Federation held an educational seminar in Miami, bringing exporters and buyers together to learn more about conducting business in Cuba. Paul Johnson of FocusCuba, a consulting firm that helps U.S. companies interested in the Cuban market, says much of the interest from Cuban buyers is for U.S. pork due to a sharp decline in Cuba’s domestic pork production. Opportunities for U.S. ag exporters are expanding because they now have access to more buyers rather than working through Cuba’s government procurement agency. Through September, U.S. pork exports to Cuba totaled 5,843 metric tons, up 322 percent from the same period last year, and up 236 percent to a value of $17.2 million. Beef exports through September are up 1,500 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** Trump Selects Nominee for U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is President-elect Trump’s nominee for U.S. Trade Representative. Greer was an aide in the office during Trump’s first term and will help steer the incoming president’s trade agenda. A graduate of the University of Virginia’s Law School, Greer was chief of staff to Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. Trade Rep during Trump’s first term in office. The goal for the new U.S. Trade Rep will be to focus the office on reigning in the country’s massive trade deficit, defending American manufacturing, agriculture, and services, and opening up export markets everywhere. “Jamieson played a key role during my first term in imposing tariffs on China and others to combat unfair trade practices and replacing the failed NAFTA deal with USMCA,” Trump said. The Hill says the selection came a day after Trump said he would impose new tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China on his first day in office. *********************************************************************************** AccuWeather Estimates $500 Billion in Hurricane Damage As the record-shattering hurricane season ends, AccuWeather experts estimate that the five hurricanes and one unnamed tropical storm that made landfall in the U.S. caused an estimated $500 billion in total damage and economic loss. “The 2024 hurricane season was explosive and will be remembered for shattering records and causing approximately half a trillion dollars in total damage,” says Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “For perspective, this would equate to almost two percent of the nation’s gross domestic product.” More than 230 deaths have been directly linked to tropical storm and hurricane impacts in the U.S. this year. AccuWeather’s estimates include impacts like long-term medical costs, job and wage losses, crop losses, infrastructure damage, business and supply chain disruptions, and many other impacts that most projections don’t account for. Hurricane Helene was the most costly as AccuWeather’s damage and economic loss estimate in the United States was between $225 and $250 billion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Revenue Protection Options Flax producers can now benefit from revenue protection, a crop insurance option available through the USDA. The Risk Management Agency expanded the Small Grains Crop Provisions to now offer revenue protection for flax for the 2025 crop year, an option already offered for barley, rye, wheat, and oats. “Expanding revenue protection for flax producers represents a critical step in strengthening the safety net,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “By ensuring that flax farmers have access to revenue-based insurance, we provide them with a more reliable tool to manage both market fluctuations and unexpected challenges.” RMA is also continuing to expand crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers by allowing enterprise units by organic farming practices, adding enterprise unit eligibility for several crops, and making additional policy updates. Also, the agency expanded the availability of enterprise units by organic farming practices to sugar beets, onions, popcorn, and processing beans.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday December 2, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets ISM Manufacturing Index at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST U.S. Grain/Oilseed Crushings and Co-Products Report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Delayed Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A clipper continues to move through the Midwest Monday morning, with snow bands from Iowa to the Ohio Valley into the afternoon. Cold air blowing over the Great Lakes continues the heavy lake-effect snows southeast of the Lakes as well. Another band of snow is developing in the Canadian Prairies as another clipper is forming.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 27, 2024 |

U.S. Trade Partners Quick to Criticize Trump’s Tariff Declaration Officials in China, Mexico and Canada criticized Tuesday a pledge made by President-elect Donald Trump on social media to impose new tariffs on all three of the United States' largest trading partners on the first day of his presidency. Trump said the move, which appears to violate the terms of a free-trade deal Trump signed into law in 2020, is aimed at clamping down on drugs − fentanyl especially − and migrants crossing into the U.S. illegally. A tariff is effectively a tax imposed by one country on the goods and services imported from another country. Oil is the top U.S. import from Canada. The largest category of goods imported to the U.S. from Mexico is cars and components for cars. The U.S. imports a significant amount of electronics from China. Some goods are exempt from tariffs because of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Halts Mexico Cattle Imports after New World Screwworm Detected The United States has paused imports of cattle from Mexico after a positive detection of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating pest that can be fatal to animals and in some cases humans. Authorities identified an infected cow at a livestock inspection checkpoint close to the border of Guatemala. Given the northward movement of screwworm, USDA said it is “restricting the importation of animal commodities,” including live cattle and bison, that originated or were transported through Mexico, effective immediately. The suspension of Mexican cattle could affect U.S. beef production and prices. The pest, which gets its name from the way it burrows into wounds like a screw, last appeared in Florida in 2016 and marked the first U.S. outbreak in decades. The U.S. has relied on live cattle imports from Canada and Mexico to fill in the gaps from years of herd declines. *********************************************************************************** Soy Transportation Coalition Elects Officers During Annual Meeting The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) elected its officers during the organization’s annual meeting in Mobile, Alabama, on November 21, 2024. During the annual meeting, Mike Koehne of Greensburg, Indiana, was elected chairman. Koehne previously served as the STC secretary-treasurer from 2023-2024. He and his wife, Jill, have four children. Koehne also currently serves on the board of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, the American Soybean Association, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council. Raylen Phelon, a soybean, corn, wheat, cattle, and hay farmer from Melvern, Kansas, was elected vice chairman. Phelon and his wife, Karen, have three children. Phelon also serves as vice chairman on the Kansas Soybean Commission. C.J. Chalfant, a soybean and corn farmer from Hartford City, Indiana, was elected secretary-treasurer. He and his wife, Abbey, have two children. Chalfant also serves as a director on the Indiana Soybean Alliance. *********************************************************************************** Pork Exports to Dominican Republic Surging U.S. pork exports to the Dominican Republic could reach a record high as African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks continue across the country. Researchers are expecting “increased export opportunities” for U.S. pork and pork products to the Caribbean nation, according to USDA, with local production declining as a result of increased disease outbreaks. While U.S. pork exports to the Dominican Republic are set to hit another record in 2024 after reaching 96,010 metric tons last year, increased competition from Brazil could influence how much the country imports moving forward. With local pork production in the Dominican Republic declining, imports have reached record levels since 2021. Pork imports totaled 101,324 metric tons last year compared to 40,084 in 2020. The U.S. is the Dominican Republic’s largest supplier of pork, averaging about 94% of the country’s pork imports. ASF, which is highly contagious and deadly to pigs, remains a significant challenge in the Dominican Republic since it was first detected in July 2021. *********************************************************************************** New Products Push Deere to Strong Q4 Earnings Deere & Co. finished the year stronger than expected after aggressively cutting production and seeing solid demand for new tractors and precision agriculture technology. The Moline, Illinois-based tractor giant reported a net profit of $1.3 billion in the fourth quarter compared to $2.4 billion last year as farmers grappled with high interest rates and low commodity prices. Sales and revenue totaled $11.1 billion, down 28% from a year ago. Despite economic challenges, Deere Chairman and CEO John May said in an earnings call that company performance was better than expected, which led to strong reinvestment across the enterprise. Josh Beal, Deere’s director of investor relations, said in the call that order books are full for the company’s new high-horsepower 9RX tractor through the fourth quarter of 2025. The company also noted “record adoption” of its technology stack, including hardware, software, data platforms and applications. Executives are bracing for another tough year in terms of demand. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Found in California Raw Milk A California raw milk farm has issued a recall after state health officials detected bird flu in retail samples. The California Department of Public Health has instructed consumers to avoid consuming a single batch of cream top, whole raw milk produced by Raw Farm, LLC. While no illnesses have been reported, retailers have been instructed to pull affected products from their shelves. “Public health experts have long warned consumers against consuming raw milk or raw milk products due to elevated risks of foodborne illness,” California health officials said in a press release. “Raw milk products are not pasteurized, a heating process that kills bacteria and viruses such as bird flu.” In 2023, Raw Farm was linked to a salmonella outbreak that sickened more than 165 people. The U.S. has reported 55 human cases of bird flu since the virus jumped to dairy cows earlier this year. California has reported 29 confirmed human cases of bird flu, the most of any state.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 27, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets 3rd quarter GDP first revision at 7:30 a.m. CST Personal Consumption Expenditures at 8 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A storm system is moving out into the Southern Plains early Wednesday morning and will quickly move east-northeast through the Ohio Valley Wednesday night. Scattered showers are forecast around the system and could be a mix of rain and snow on the northern edge of the storm across the Ohio Valley. Cold air will spread south behind the system tonight and may cause some light snow showers as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 26, 2024 |

Trump Picks Nominee for Secretary of Agriculture President-elect Donald Trump chose Brooke Rollins as his nominee for the next Secretary of Agriculture. Rollins is a graduate of Texas A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture development. She grew up in the small agriculture-centered town of Glen Rose, Texas, while spending years in leadership involvement with FFA and 4-H. “Her commitment to support the American farmer, defense of American food self-sufficiency, and the restoration of agriculture-dependent small towns in America is second to none,” the President-elect said. “As the next Secretary of Agriculture, Brook will spearhead the effort to protect American farmers, who are truly the backbone of our country.” Rollins was on Trump’s 2016 Economic Advisory Council and worked as the Director of the Domestic Public Policy Council. Rollins has also spent the past four years as the Founder and CEO of the American First Policy Institute and America First Works. *********************************************************************************** Agriculture Groups React to Ag Secretary Nominee U.S. agriculture groups reacted to President-elect Donald Trump picking Brooke Rollins as his nominee for Secretary of Agriculture. “Brooke Rollins has fought for Main Street and rural America,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. says, “We’re ready to work on issues of importance to production agriculture, including expanding markets here and overseas for U.S. Corn.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, hopes her rural roots instilled in her the important role that family farmers and ranchers play in supporting the national economy. National Sorghum Producers Chairwoman Amy France says this is an important moment for U.S. agriculture, and they are optimistic about the opportunities her leadership will bring to rural America. “We also look forward to working with the Secretary-designate to support our farmers and rural communities,” says Jack Pettus of the American Sugar Alliance. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Slightly Higher, Egg Production Lower The USDA’s Cattle on Feed Report shows cattle and calves for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with 1,000 head or more capacity totaled 12 million head on November 1, 2024. That inventory was slightly higher than in November 2023. October placements in feedlots totaled 2.29 million head, five percent above last year. Net placements totaled 2.23 million head. Fed cattle marketings during October were 1.85 million head, five percent above 2023. Other disappearances totaled 55,000 head in October. In poultry, U.S. egg production totaled 9.19 billion during October, down four percent from last year. Production included 7.89 billion table eggs. The average number of layers in October was 377 million, down three percent from 2023. October egg production per 100 layers reached 2,438 eggs, down one percent from October 1, 2023. Total egg layers on November 1, 2024, totaled 377 million, down three percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** Syngenta Collaborates with Ducks Unlimited on Conservation The Sustainable and Responsible Business Team at Syngenta announced a collaboration with Ducks Unlimited, highlighting employees’ commitment to conservation in agriculture. In the spring, Syngenta and DU developed a contest for sharing employee stories and recognizing their leadership in conservation. Qualifying employees had the opportunity to showcase a range of products related to their personal, education, on-farm, or operational projects, with the grand prize winner getting two tickets to the “Concert for Conservation in Las Vegas, Nevada, a DU exclusive event. “Our goal is to learn from each other and to motivate staff to share, be involved, and do more, whether they grow crops or not,” says Liz Hunt, head of Syngenta Sustainability for North America. “We know our staffs love the agricultural way of life, nature, and wide-open spaces.” She also says it’s important DU staff realize they’re part of climate and biodiversity solutions too, not just the farmers Syngenta serves every day. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Celebrates the “Beagle Brigade” The National Pork Producers Council celebrated the Senate’s unanimous passage of Senate Bill S.759. It’s known as the “Beagle Brigade Act, and it provides statutory authority and reliable funding for the National Dog Training Center. “American agriculture relies on the National Dog Detector Training Center to prevent the introduction of foreign animal and plant diseases that would cripple our food supply,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “For the pork industry, the ‘Beagle Brigade’ is the first line of defense for keeping threats from foreign animal diseases, like African Swine Fever, out of the United States.” Stevermer also says they appreciate Iowa Senator Joni Ernst and their Senate supporters and urge the House to take this up before the end of the year. The agriculture canine teams of the Customs and Border Protection bolster national security by performing critically important inspections at U.S. ports of entry, and this bill strengthens the program. *********************************************************************************** Mike Spier is the Next President and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates The U.S. Wheat Associates directors elected Mike Spier, vice president of overseas operations, as the export market organization’s next President and CEO. The move becomes official with the retirement of current President and CEO Vince Peterson on July 1, 2025. Spier says he’s honored and humbled to be elected to this position and grateful to the officers and directors for their trust and confidence. “I’m immensely grateful to Vince Peterson, whose vision and dedication have laid a durable foundation for future success,” Spier says. “I look forward to working with my outstanding colleagues, as well as the National Association of Wheat Growers, state wheat commissions, and our industry partners.” Through his career, Spier has gained expertise in grain merchandising, international wheat trading, market analysis, risk management, hedging, coordination, execution, and negotiation of ocean freight contracts. He’s also traveled to more than 50 countries, implementing wheat export market development activities.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 26, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Consumer Confidence Index at 9 a.m. CST U.S. Agricultural Trade Outlook at 2 p.m. CST Weather A system continues to move through the East on Tuesday, but the bigger story is the storm system in the West, where it is producing scattered rain and snow, especially from California to Colorado. This system will move into the Southern Plains on Wednesday and could cause some travel hazards for the Thanksgiving holiday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 25, 2024 |

Farm Labor Costs Continue Climbing The USDA’s Farm Labor Report, released on November 20, offers a glimpse into the future of farm expenses. The Department of Labor uses the “field and livestock workers’ combined” wage rate reported in the November Farm Labor Report to establish most H-2A workers’ minimum wage, known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate. This year, the combined field and livestock worker wage rate nationally is $18.12, up 3.2 percent from the 2023 release. Regional wages increased an average of 4.5 percent, but this reflects wide ranges of change across the country. Fruit and vegetable farmers, the largest users of H-2A, spend 38 percent of their farm expenses on labor, and that share will continue to grow if wages grow as they have in recent years. Rising farmworker wages are a challenge to American specialty crop producers competing with farmers in other countries who can hire at a fraction of the cost. *********************************************************************************** Senators Want Farm Aid Beyond Hurricane Damages Federal officials testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on how they’re dealing with disasters. Farm Policy News says Georgia and North Carolina senators testified about the devastation facing their farmers after Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit those states this Fall. Beyond those disasters, several senators also talked about significant financial losses facing row crop farmers in their states. “Many farmers across the country are on the verge of going out of business due to hurricanes, wildfires, drought, and other weather-related events that wiped out entire crops,” said Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS). “But there are also many farmers across the country on the verge of going out of business due to high input costs and below break-even commodity prices, and they need help too.” She added that for the first time in her career, she’s had lenders and bankers say they weren’t going to be able to help finance farmers in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Release Quarterly Economic Update The National Corn Growers Association’s Economic Update reported on everything from trends to challenges, opportunities, and market conditions in U.S. agriculture. The rapid 2024 harvest gives farmers an edge on any fall field preparations and more time to finalize year-end financial plans, which is critical in the current high-cost and low-price environment. It also looked at the impact of a potential tariff war. A recent study by the NCGA and the American Soybean Association shows a reignited tariff war would limit market access, drop corn prices, and increase overseas market competition for U.S. corn. The report also detailed economic conditions, including government projections showing a drop in net income for farmers. The USDA predicts U.S. real net cash income for the U.S. farm sector will dip 9.6 percent in 2024. The decline follows a 24 percent drop last year. The report is designed to show what’s working and not working in U.S. agriculture. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Support Launch of Yogurt-Based Snack The dairy checkoff and General Mills created YoBark, a yogurt-based snack designed to give families a tasty option and expand yogurt’s presence in the snacking category. YoBark is refrigerated and combines the creaminess of yogurt with the crunchy texture of Nature Valley Granola, offering a multi-sensory flavor experience. It’s already available in places like Safeway and Walmart and will reach more retailers in the months ahead. Dairy Management Inc. has been working with General Mills on this concept since 2021, providing consumer insights on why “tweens” (ages 12-13) have decreased their yogurt consumption. DMI also provided new product concept development, package design, and research and development support. “Recognizing this trend, we partnered with General Mills and co-funded research to develop product concepts that would appeal to this demographic,” says Chris Urban, vice president of growth platforms and partnerships for DMI. ‘The lead concept that emerged from the collaboration is YoBark.” *********************************************************************************** South American Corn Production on Different Paths Corn production in South America’s two major agricultural countries will follow two distinct paths during the 2024-2025 crop season. In Brazil, the planted acreage is expected to remain steady, but exports are likely to drop significantly due to intensified competition in the international markets. Conab has increased its estimate for Brazil’s total corn crop to 4.717 million bushels, a 3.6 percent increase from last year. If achieved, this would mark the second-largest harvest in Brazil’s history, trailing only the record in 2022-2023. Field activities are underway for Brazil’s first corn crop. In contrast, Argentina anticipates the largest relative decrease in corn acreage in 17 years, driven by concerns about the potential impact of corn stunt disease, which affected many producers’ yields last season. Farmdoc says Argentina’s corn exports are projected to reach their highest levels since the 2020-2021 season. Argentina’s corn planted area is projected to drop 25 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Members Support Livestock Grazing to Prevent Wildfires Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council testified before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands. Their testimony supported legislation to expand the use of livestock grazing as a tool to reduce wildfire risk, make grazing permits more responsive to range conditions, and remove regulatory barriers to maintaining critical infrastructure. Each bill will work together to protect the beautiful landscapes across the West and support the ranchers who drive the economic success of rural communities. “I see a clear need for the Operational Flexibility Grazing Management Act,” says NCBA member and Utah cattleman Jeff Young. “Resource management shouldn’t be static; it should be responsive and collaborative.” He also says the bill represents an updated, modernized way to manage that land, understanding that you need flexibility to make things work from year to year. Targeted grazing can remove up to 1,000 pounds of wildfire fuel per acre.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 25, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Food Price Outlook at 8 a.m. CST Export Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Crop Progress Report at 3 p.m. CST Weather A weak system traveling east through the Midwest will produce scattered showers for Monday. Some snow is falling up in the northern Great Lakes area, but most areas will be warm enough for rain. A system off the West Coast will keep that area active Monday as well, bringing the bigger storm system for the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 22, 2024 |

‘Dicamba Cannot be Fixed’: Senate Democrats Push to Keep Weedkiller Banned The EPA is facing renewed pressure to deny applications re-registering the controversial weedkiller from three of the biggest crop protection companies. Three Senate Democrats are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to deny applications to re-register the herbicide dicamba, saying the weedkiller cannot be used without causing unreasonable adverse effects. The herbicide, which was pulled from the market earlier this year, can drift when sprayed and cause irreparable harm to human health, critical habitats and neighboring crops, according to a letter from senators Cory Booker, Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch. Re-registering the herbicide with tighter usage restrictions, as the agency has done in the past, has not been enough to mitigate damage from dicamba, the letter said. The senators reiterate that that dicamba cannot be fixed. *********************************************************************************** Corn Earworm Building Up More Resistance to Crop Protection Efforts To minimize damage and reduce the need for insecticide sprays, crops have been genetically engineered to produce bacterial proteins that kill key pests but are not harmful to people or wildlife. However, widespread planting of such transgenic crops has led to rapid adaptation by some pests. Researchers from the University of Arizona used genomics to investigate the genetic changes causing resistance to transgenic crops in field populations of the corn earworm. The corn earworm is one the world’s most challenging pests in terms of its ability to quickly evolve resistance in the field to genetically engineered crops, says senior study author Bruce Tabashnik. To analyze the genetic basis of field-evolved resistance of corn earworm, insects were sent for DNA extraction and sequencing to enable scanning the entire genome for genetic differences between the resistant and susceptible corn earworm caterpillars. the genomic analysis included 937 corn earworms from 17 sites in seven states across the southern U.S. *********************************************************************************** Food Fight: US Dietary Guidelines Could Cut Meat and Potatoes Beef groups slammed recommendations for consumers to increase their protein intake via beans, peas and lentils, calling the proposal “unhinged.” A major battle is brewing over how much red meat Americans should consume — and it has the beef industry seeing red. The United States is preparing next year to update its Dietary Guidelines for Americans, an influential set of recommendations that inform nutrition labels, what food is served in schools and hospitals and the advice that healthcare professionals give patients. Drafted recommendations are set to call for greater intake of plant-based foods while limiting consumption of beef and starchy vegetables like potatoes. The committee of scientists behind the recommendations also proposed moving “meats, poultry, eggs” to the last group listed in the protein-foods category while adding beans, peas and lentils as options. *********************************************************************************** US-Only Supply Chains Could Emerge Under Trump Companies looking to avoid tariffs on imports from China will likely shake up their sourcing. Facing the threat of more tariffs, companies will begin to create supply chains just to export to America. Creating a separate supply chain for the U.S. market would mean eliminating components from China for products bound for the country. Speaking at the Port of Los Angeles this week, Mary Lovely, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, asserted, “If the U.S. says, ‘no Chinese content, no matter what the good, what the product, whether there’s a national security implication or not,’ you’re going to see that supply chains will be created at higher expense just to serve the United States. With President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to impose tariffs during his administration, shippers and supply chain managers are revising their trade strategies — which could come at a higher cost. We’re looking ahead to a period that we think will be very active for trade policy. *********************************************************************************** How Are Pecans Being Affected by Climate Change? Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, which are already having a profound impact on the crops in large agricultural. We are seeing decreases in crop productivity due to plant stress from excessive dry and warm conditions. The University of Texas at El Paso study will look at how drought, heat waves, and soil impact the cycle of water and carbon between plants and the atmosphere in dryland agricultural ecosystems. It will focus on two orchards, one in the El Paso area and another in the Conchos River basin near the city of Delicias in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. The research team will monitor tree and root system growth, soil-plant water status, and canopy temperature. Their goal is to develop a detailed understanding of how soil structure and management practices can either mitigate or exacerbate the stress that plants experience during extreme weather events. *********************************************************************************** Corteva Unveils ‘Breakthrough’ in Drought-Resistant Wheat A new seed hybrid has the potential to increase yields by 10% and represents one of the first major innovations for the crop in decades. This week Corteva unveiled a drought-resistant wheat seed that could be “revolutionary” in advancing more climate-resilient hybrids for a crop that’s been difficult to innovate. The new proprietary hybrid wheat seed has the potential to increase yields by 10% while using the same amount of land and resources. The non-GMO technology can also provide yields 20% above competitors in drought conditions. The Indianapolis-based company plans to bring hybrid Hard Red Winter wheat to North America by 2027 as competitors race to bring drought-tolerant seeds to market. Hybrid seeds, created by crossing two genetically different parents, have been used for decades by corn and soy farmers as a way to produce more resilient, higher yielding plants. However, due to the relatively complex genetics of wheat, progress on creating a hybrid has been slow.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 22, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Consumer Sentiment at 9 a.m. CST Cattle On Feed and Chicken and Eggs report at 2 p.m. CST CFTC Commitment of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather A system weakening in the Northeast is still able to produce some lake-effect showers in the Midwest for Friday, but mostly as rain. The Pacific Northwest continues to be pounded by a system off the West Coast with some snow leaking into the Canadian Prairies and Montana.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 21, 2024 |

White House Wants $100 Billion for Disaster Relief The White House is asking for $98.6 billion in emergency disaster relief funding following multiple hurricanes this fall. Roll Call says the administration wants a comprehensive package that extends back to unmet needs from prior disasters, encompassing requests the White House made over a year ago. The largest piece of the funding, $40 billion, would restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s dwindling fund for immediate disaster response needs. Another $21 billion would allow USDA to compensate farmers and ranchers for crop and livestock losses. “From rebuilding homes and reopening critical infrastructure to supporting the nation’s farmers and ranchers and ensuring access to healthcare services, impacted communities await your response,” President Biden wrote in a letter to Congress. “There can be no delay.” Congress will decide how much to appropriate and whether to attach the package to a stopgap measure that may be needed to avoid a partial government shutdown after December 20. *********************************************************************************** Summit Carbon Applies Again for Pipeline in South Dakota Summit Carbon Solutions resubmitted an application for a carbon dioxide pipeline to South Dakota state regulators this week. The application included “major reroutes” of the proposed structure in four South Dakota counties. The move happened over a year after the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission rejected the company’s first application. “By working hand-in-hand with landowners and communities, we’ve developed a project that balances progress with respect for those directly involved,” says Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions. “Together, we’re creating a new pathway to new markets and lasting economic growth for generations to come.” The 2,500-mile pipeline will include 700 miles in South Dakota. It will eventually transport CO2 from 57 ethanol plants across five states, including 14 in South Dakota and Gevo’s (JEE-voes) SAF plant near Lake Preston, South Dakota. The majority of the CO2 will be safely and permanently stored in North Dakota via Class Six injection wells. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Thanksgiving Survey Shows Dinner Cost Declined from 2023 Cooking a Thanksgiving dinner this year for friends and family will cost less than last year but is still more expensive than before COVID-19. The 39th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey shows the cost of this year’s classic holiday feast for ten people is $58.08 or about $5.80 per person. That’s a five percent decrease from 2023, which was 4.5 percent lower than 2022. Two years of declines don’t erase dramatic increases that led to a record high cost of $64.06 in 2022. Despite the encouraging momentum, a Thanksgiving meal is still 19 percent higher than it was in 2019. Turkey, the centerpiece on most tables, helped bring down the overall cost of the dinner. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $25.67. That’s $1.68 per pound, which is down six percent from 2023. Items like dinner rolls and cubed stuffing both saw an eight percent increase, and cranberries were up 12 percent. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Processing Injuries and Illness Fall Sharply The incidence of occupational injuries and illnesses within the poultry sector’s slaughter and processing workforce has fallen sharply. The number of injury and illness occurrences is below all general industry, manufacturing, and food manufacturing levels for the first time since the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics began recording the information in 1994. The 2023 incident rate of 2.6 injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers represents an 89 percent decrease from 1994, the oldest data available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website, when the recorded rate was 22.7. “The poultry industry has always prioritized employee safety and remains dedicated to preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, with a particular focus on disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome,” says the Joint Poultry Industry Safety and Health Council. “By embracing ergonomic practices and early medical intervention, and by adopting new technology and automation, the industry has made significant strides in worker safety.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding to Strengthen the Specialty Crops Sector Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the creation of new programs that will help farmers who grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts overcome market barriers for their products. The programs will also help producers access necessary pre-market storage for their crops following severe weather events, including the recent hurricanes. The new Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops Initiative will provide $2 billion to assist specialty crop growers in maintaining a strong domestic supply and expanding market opportunities for their crops. USDA is also creating the Commodity Storage Assistance Program that will provide $140 million to help producers gain access to a packinghouse, grain elevator, or other facilities necessary for marketing their commodities. This program is designed for farmers nationwide due to disaster-related challenges, and USDA anticipates a high signup rate in the Southeast due to hurricane devastation. “These programs will be important for producers in every corner of the U.S.,” says Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** Sugar Alliance Congratulates Congressional Leadership The American Sugar Alliance congratulated John Thune (R-SD) on his election as Senate Majority Leader and Representative Mike Johnson (R-LA) on his re-election as Speaker of the House. “American farmers are vital to American strength and food security, and we’re encouraged to see strong agricultural champions positioned in these key leadership roles,” says Jack Pettus, Chairman of the American Sugar Alliance. From coast to coast, American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and factory workers support more than 151,000 jobs and drive $23.3 billion in annual economic activity. “Both the Senate and House leadership teams will be comprised of members who have a first-hand understanding of why we must keep American sugar production in America,” Pettus added. “We look forward to working with them as we continue advocating for our farmers, workers, and the rural communities they support.” The American Sugar Alliance is strongly urging Congress to pass a new five-year Farm Bill.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 21, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST Agricultural Exchange Rate Data at 2 p.m. CST Livestock Slaughter at 2 p.m. CST Weather A balled-up system in the Great Lakes is producing scattered rain and snow showers across the region on Thursday. Some heavier snow will move down around Lake Michigan and through Indiana along with some breezy winds. Meanwhile, heavy precipitation continues to move into the Pacific Northwest, with some snow showers leaking into the Canadian Prairies as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 20, 2024 |

Farm Loan Concerns in Struggling Ag Economy A new report says banks could be more hesitant to lend to the farm sector just as the agricultural industry is expected to enter a major credit crunch. Rabobank says that could disproportionately hurt smaller producers in the process. After two years of near-record profits, a significant drop in crop prices is pushing more producers to take out loans. Although farmers have built up somewhat of a liquidity buffer to manage the downturn, Rabobank says those savings are expected to run out by the next crop year. “Although the U.S. agricultural sector’s financial affairs are projected to finish 2023-2024 in stable condition, the trajectory is downward,” the report says. Demand for farm loans is set to climb to levels not seen since 2013 with producers expected to increase their borrowing by billions of dollars over the next several years. Producers may face stricter borrowing requirements when taking out new loans. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Releases Democrat’s Version of the Senate Farm Bill Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow spoke on the Senate floor and introduced the “Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act.” She says for more than two years, she’s been working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass her sixth farm bill. “The farmers I met with made clear that the farm safety net must be the backbone of support for all farmers, and not just a handful of mostly southern commodities,” she said. “Large increases in farm subsidies shouldn’t be paid for on the back of our families in need or the broader needs of our small towns and rural communities.” Farm Policy News says her Senate bill and the House-approved bill differ in multiple ways. Top Ag Republican John Boozman of Arkansas quickly rejected the proposal, saying, “A partisan proposal released 415 days after the expiration of the current farm bill is insulting. America’s farmers deserve better.” *********************************************************************************** Congress Reaffirms Low Costs of Keeping AM in Vehicles The Congressional Budget Office released a second cost analysis for the revised AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2024. Radio Ink says the scoring still bodes well for radio. The estimated budgetary effects of the Senate and House bills are similar. The CBO estimates that 2.5 to three million EVs annually would need updates to media equipment and software. While the cost of these updates is considered minimal, the CBO estimates the total annual cost for automakers would be in the low millions, and far below the $200 million threshold for private-sector mandates set by the U.S. government. While both the Senate and House versions of the bill remain pending, bipartisan support continues growing. The National Association of Broadcasters, NAFB, state broadcast associations, legislators, and tens of thousands of listeners are calling on Congress to act swiftly by emphasizing AM radio as a free and reliable platform for emergency communications. *********************************************************************************** Minneapolis Fed Saw Farm Incomes Drop During the fall, harvests are typically the biggest concern on farmers’ minds. But even in parts of the Ninth District where crops looked bountiful, crop prices that have been falling for the last two years were a bigger worry this year. That’s according to an October survey of agricultural bankers by the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank. “Above average yields may somewhat offset the lower commodity prices,” a South Dakota banker said in the survey. “The resulting financial stress on many operations will most likely be more noticeable this year.” The survey asked about conditions from July through September, and respondents say farm incomes across the region overwhelmingly dropped. Spending on capital equipment also fell, though farm household purchases increased on balance. Tighter income pushed up demand for loans, while the rate of loan repayments dropped. Loan renewal and extension activity increased. Land values and cash rents also increased from a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Disappointed in Failure to Address Prop 12 The National Pork Producers Council issued a statement after Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow unveiled the Senate Democrats’ 2024 Farm Bill text. While NPPC appreciates Chairman Stabenow’s efforts to publish farm bill text, they say it’s simply not a viable bill. “It fails to provide a solution to California’s Prop 12,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer, a Minnesota pork producer. “Pork producers have continually spoken up about the negative impact of this issue, and it’s a shame these conversations were disregarded,” Stevermer said. In May, NPPC secured 100 percent of pork producers’ priorities in the House Agriculture Committee-passed bipartisan 2024 Farm Bill. In June, producers once again secured all policy priorities in Senate Ag Ranking Member John Boozman’s 2024 Farm Bill Framework. NPPC is urging both the House and Senate to swiftly consider and pass a farm bill this year that includes a legislative fix to California’s Proposition 12. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Morocco and West Africa in December Representatives from 50 U.S. agribusinesses and trade groups and 14 state departments of agriculture will travel to Casablanca, Morocco, on December 2-5. “This mission offers a crucial opportunity for U.S. agribusinesses to enter into Morocco’s dynamic market and leverage its strategic position for wider American access,” says Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley, who will lead the trade mission. “We are dedicated to facilitating these vital connections and expanding America’s agricultural exports.” Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. U.S. sales of farm and food products to the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of the continent’s market share. American agricultural exports to Morocco have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement went into effect in 2006. Whitley says U.S. exporters have a number of opportunities in numerous sectors, including beef, dairy, feed grains, live animals, rice, seafood, seed potatoes, soybeans, and more.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 20, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Weekly Petroleum status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A system continues in the Canadian Prairies, bringing heavy snow to eastern areas and down into the North-Central U.S. as well. The system is pushing colder air through more of the country. On the leading edge of that cold air, some showers have developed in Illinois early Wednesday morning and a new low pressure center will develop around Michigan today, continuing the showers in the Midwest for the rest of the week as a mix of rain and snow. Snow could come down heavy at times the next couple of days. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest will continue to be pounded by a large storm.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 15, 2024 |

AFBF Expels Illinois FB, Legal Challenges to Follow The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has kicked the Illinois Farm Bureau out of the federation effective December 20 in a dispute over member dues. The Illinois organization has responded by challenging the move in circuit court. A letter from AFBF President Zippy Duvall to state farm bureau presidents said the action comes after a failed mediation session on Monday. The move is in retaliation for a decision by the Illinois Farm Bureau’s affiliate, Country Financial, to drop a Farm Bureau membership eligibility requirement for non-farm insurance policy holders in Illinois. The Illinois Farm Bureau and Country Financial have the same individuals on both boards of directors, though they have different fiduciary duties. WGLT reports there are three other states where Country does business where farm clients are required to be members of their state farm bureau, but none except Illinois where non-farm clients had to buy a farm bureau membership as well. ************************************************************************************ Mississippi River Low During Harvest for Third Straight Year The Mississippi River is experiencing an unwelcome three-peat with low water levels during harvest season. The “Mighty Mississip” experienced low water in both 2022 and 2023 and now once again this harvest season. Charts from the U.S. Geological Survey show precipitation and the resulting water levels were quite robust during the spring and early summer. But after mid-July, precipitation declined significantly, which caused a steady and dramatic decrease in water levels. The short-lived 15-plus foot spike in water levels at Memphis due to Hurricane Helene passed through the system quickly in late September, and the levels returned to where they were earlier. The impact on agriculture shipping can be dramatic when water levels drop. For example, for each foot of draft reduction on the river, an individual barge is loaded with 7,000 fewer bushels (200 tons) of soybeans. Depending on the location in the river, tow sizes are being reduced from 10-15% at minimum and upwards of 30-40%. ************************************************************************************* Producers Readying Themselves for New Trade War Under Trump USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Thursday that USDA is funding new projects in nearly every state to lower costs, expand access to clean energy and strengthen American farms and small businesses. USDA is making the investments through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). “The Biden-Harris Administration and USDA are ensuring farmers, small business owners and rural communities have the resources they need for the future,” Secretary Vilsack said. “The investments I’m announcing today will help rural communities lead our country toward an economy that benefits working people everywhere with lower costs and clean energy jobs.” Vilsack said this new round invests more than $256 million in loans and grants that will support more than 1,100 clean energy projects in 40 states. Most of the new projects are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. ************************************************************************************* Ducks Unlimited, Sorghum Producers to Promote Water Conservation Ducks Unlimited (DU) and National Sorghum Producers (NSP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cooperatively promote water conversation. This MOU aims to develop and expand a framework of cooperation between DU and NSP uniquely focused on water savings and market innovation. The partnership will support agricultural producers and surrounding rural communities by promoting water-efficient practices, expand critical waterfowl habitat that also recharges below-ground aquifers, and drive innovation into new value-added opportunities around ‘water-smart’ commodities. “If there’s one thing that ducks and agriculture both need, it’s water,” said DU CEO Adam Putnam. “DU and NSP have a shared interest in conserving America’s precious water resources, and our collaboration will enable us to achieve success that wouldn’t be possible alone.” “National Sorghum Producers has long championed innovative, sustainable practices that enhance agricultural productivity while preserving our vital natural resources,” NSP CEO Tim Lust said. “Sorghum...serves as a water-sipping alternative to more thirsty crops, making it indispensable in water-stressed regions.” ************************************************************************************* Food Prices Slightly Higher in October The October Consumer Price Index numbers for food-at-home show that prices increased just 0.1% for the month and fell to 1.1% year over year. Heading into the holiday season, some prices have moderated. Andy Harig, vice president for FMI, the Food Industry Association, said, the "CPI numbers illustrate once again that -- while the process of bringing down overall inflation continues to be a work in progress -- food price inflation remains on a solid path.” In addition, turkey prices are down 11% from last year, ham prices are expected to drop 2.5% and apples, fresh cranberries and frozen pies are all expected to be more affordable. "With Thanksgiving around the corner, the good news for consumers is that many traditional items will cost less than last year," according to Harig. The overall CPI edged up a slight 0.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis in October, the same rate as the each of the previous three months. ************************************************************************************* Cox Farms Becomes North America’s Largest Indoor Farmer Cox Farms, a recently launched subsidiary of telecommunications conglomerate Cox Enterprises, said it is now the largest indoor farming operator in North America following its latest acquisition of a greenhouse facility in Canada. Cox-owned Mucci Farms added to its footprint with the acquisition of Greenhill Produce, a nearly 150-acre facility in Kent Bridge, Ontario, that specializes in bell peppers. Financial details were not disclosed. The purchase gives Cox Farms more than 700 acres of greenhouse space across its two brands. In addition to Mucci Farms, Cox also owns leafy greens grower BrightFarms. Since launching in March, Cox Farms has embarked on a rapid acquisition spree and doubled the acreage across its two brands in roughly nine months. “Seeing Cox Farms become North America’s largest greenhouse operator is a proud moment for us,” Alex Taylor, chairman and CEO of Cox Enterprises, said in a statement. “Cox Farms is not only providing fresh food options to millions but is also setting a powerful example of building a better future in agriculture.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 15, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA/FAS Export sales report at 7:30am CT U.S. retail sales report at 7:30am CT US Industrial production and capacity utilization at 8:15am CT USDA Livestock Outlook at 2pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30pm CT Weather An overall quiet day is in store east of the Rockies Friday. But a system is moving through the West and will bring scattered showers in some areas there.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 14, 2024 |

Thune Elected Senate Majority Leader Senate Republicans have elected South Dakota’s John Thune as the next Senate majority leader after rejecting public overtures from allies of President-elect Donald Trump who backed a different candidate. MSN reports Thune won in a secret-ballot vote of 29-24, beating out opposing candidates John Cornyn of Texas and Rick Scott of Florida. The 63-year-old Thune will succeed Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has led his chamber's Republicans since 2007 and is the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history. Thune has served as whip since 2019 and campaigned heavily for his GOP colleagues during this election cycle, a metric often used to size up candidates' fundraising prowess and willingness to help out the party. Thune raised $33 million this cycle and attended more than 200 events for Republican candidates, according to his office. Thune has served in the Senate since 2005. Before that, he was South Dakota's at-large representative in the House for six years. ************************************************************************************ Zeldin Tabbed to Head EPA President-elect Donald Trump has selected former New York congressman Lee Zeldin to run the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The nomination for EPA administrator will need confirmation from the Senate, where Republicans are poised to hold a majority of seats next term. “Zeldin will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses,” Trump said in a statement, adding that Zeldin will still maintain “the highest environmental standards.” NPR reports environmental groups decried the nomination as a step backward for environmental policy. Reuters reports during his time in Congress from 2015 to 2023 as a representative from New York, Zeldin cast “yes” votes on key pieces of environmental legislation just 14% of the time, according to a scorecard by environmental group the League of Conservation Voters. ************************************************************************************ Tractor Sales Plummet in October Sales of tractors for agricultural use plunged year-over-year in October, according to data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Tractor sales dropped 14% from the same month a year earlier to 21,354 units. Combine sales fell almost 35%. These declines point to the overall softness in the ag economy following a robust five years of positive industry results. Sales of two-wheel drive tractors fell 15% to 20,631 units, led by a 38% drop in sales of those with 100 horsepower or more. Sales of tractors with 40 to 99 horsepower fell 13% to 5,868 and those with less than 40 horsepower lost 8.4% to 12,185 units. Successful Farming reports sales of four-wheel drive tractors were down 0.4% to 723 units. Meanwhile, combine sales plunged about 35% to 516 units. ************************************************************************************ Corn and Soybean Harvests Nearly Complete As of November 10, 95% of the 2024 corn crop in the top 18 corn-growing states was harvested. This was up from 91% a week prior and ahead of the five-year average of 84%. USDA said 96% of the soybean crop in the top 18 growing states was in the bins. This was up from 94% the week prior and ahead of the five-year average of 91%. Planting is also making progress with winter wheat across the top 18 states at 91% planted as of Nov. 10. This was up from 87% the week prior but behind the five-year average of 93%. USDA said 76% of winter wheat was out of the ground. This was up from 66% the week prior but behind the five-year average of 79%. ************************************************************************************ Trump Administration Likely to Abandon HIIPP Rule A second Donald Trump presidency will likely spell the death of OSHA’s recently published heat safety rule, but experts say it won’t necessarily mean no standard will come to pass. The agency published the proposed rule and began accepting public comments this summer. That time period will close on December 30. Then it would take several months for OSHA to review all of the input, finalize the rule, and put it into effect. But Ashley Brightwell, partner in Atlanta-based Alston & Bird’s labor and employment group, called the finalization of the rule “highly unlikely” before President Biden leaves office. The standard would also face congressional and legal challenges, and she added the Trump administration could abandon the rulemaking process altogether. The 1,000-page rule requires a Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Plan, or HIIPP, that employers would need to put into effect for a heat trigger when temperatures reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. ************************************************************************************ First State to Complete Soybean Harvest? Minnesota! The first state to complete the 2024 soybean harvest was a surprise: Minnesota has finished its harvest, the USDA said in the latest Crop Progress Report. The state was five percentage points ahead of its five-year average for November 3. This is a change from 2023, when Louisiana was the first state to get all of its soybeans in the bin. Minnesota Soybean Growers Association President Darin Johnson, who farms in Faribault County near the southern border, told Successful Farming that weather conditions played a big role in farmers getting into fields early to harvest. A really dry August and September pushed the harvest window up so much that farmers were in the fields harvesting soybeans by mid-September. According to the June Acreage Report released by USDA, Minnesota planted the third-most soybeans in the country in 2024 at 7.53 million acres.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 14, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Brazilian agency Conab releases their November crop report at 6 a.m. CST Producer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST EIA Weekly Petroleum Status Report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST ERS Cost of Production Forecast at 2 p.m. CST Fed Chair Jerome Powell press conference at 2 p.m. CST Weather A storm system in the Midwest continues to produce showers there down to the Southeast early Thursday morning. The system will continue to slide eastward, with some areas of moderate rainfall. A trough continues to dig into the West, setting up several storm systems for the weekend and next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 13, 2024 |

Mexico Now Top U.S. Export Customer, China Drops to Third U.S. food and ag sales to Mexico surged by 7% during the 2024 fiscal year, making the North American neighbor the No. 1 ag export customer, according to Census Bureau data tracked by the USDA. China fell to third place behind Canada in export purchases. Shipments to Mexico totaled $30 billion, an increase of $2 billion from 2023, with purchases that included a record 24.5 million metric tons of corn, 40% of all U.S. corn exports for the year. Canada bought $29 billion and China $25.7 billion of American-grown food and ag products. Together, Mexico and Canada accounted for one-third of U.S. food and ag exports of $173 billion for the year. And they were forecast to repeat as the top two markets in fiscal 2025, with China again in third place. Brazil has gained a larger share of the ag import market in China. ************************************************************************************ Producers Readying Themselves for New Trade War Under Trump U.S. agriculture is bracing for a new trade war under U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, but Reuters reports producers say they are “better prepared” this time than they were in 2016, when Trump was first elected. “China will remain a key market,” according to Jason Hafemeister, USDA Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Services. “Even in the last couple of years we’ve recognized the potential for disruption in U.S.-China trade so a lot of our efforts have gone into diversifying our markets.” Trump is threatening new tariffs on Chinese imports, and China is likely to reciprocate. “I think it’s terribly naive of anyone to think that the election of Trump and the Republican party will be positive for agriculture,” said Jay O’Neil, a grain industry consultant and former economist at Kansas State University. ************************************************************************************* USDA Cuts Soybean Yield, But Probably Not Enough to Bounce Market USDA slashed expectations for soybeans on Friday in a surprise revision to its production outlook, potentially offering some relief to farmers who have struggled with surplus crops and low prices. Soybean production is forecast at 4.46 billion bushels, down 3% from USDA’s October forecast. Yields are expected to average 51.7 bushels per acre, a decline of 1.4 bushels from the previous forecast. Markets moved slightly higher in reaction to the news, with USDA economist Seth Meyer saying corn increased by 3 cents and soybeans improved by 5 to 6 cents. However, market response was moderated with crop supply still plentiful. “On the bean side, [there was] a pretty late season yield surprise,” Meyer said, “but was still a plentiful carryout, which is really going to temper the market’s ability to push those prices higher.” ************************************************************************************* Thompson Leads List of Potential Ag Secretary Candidates House Agriculture Chair Glenn Thompson is among those being considered for agriculture secretary in the next Trump administration, according to a person familiar with the team’s thinking. Politico reports the Pennsylvania Republican, who developed closer ties to Trump during the president-elect’s many campaign visits to the Keystone State, offers deep knowledge of agriculture policy. The Trump transition team neither confirmed nor denied the possibility of tapping Thompson. “President-Elect Trump will begin making decisions on who will serve in his second Administration soon. Those decisions will be announced when they are made,” said spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. Other names being mentioned are Former Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agriculture Affairs Ted McKinney; Kip Tom, formerly U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture; and former White House ag advisor Ray Starling. ************************************************************************************* Export Inspections Down Week over Week Inspections of corn, beans and wheat for overseas delivery all declined week to week, according to data from the Ag Department. Corn inspections in the seven days that ended on Oct. 31 were reported at 779,078 metric tons, the agency said. That’s down more than seven percent from a week earlier but more than 26 percent above the 574,558 tons assessed during the same week a year earlier. Soybean assessments totaled 2.16 million tons, down from 2.63 million tons the previous week and just below the 2.18 million tons inspected at the same point in 2023. Examinations of wheat for export dropped to 193,523 tons, just 65 percent of the inspections the week prior. The total was still above the 114,318 tons assessed in the same week last year, the agency said. Since the start of the marketing year on Sept. 1, USDA has inspected 7.42 million metric tons of wheat for export. That’s up from 5.55 million tons during the same time frame a year earlier. ************************************************************************************* Tractor Manufacturers Slow Production as Demand Declines As farmers struggle with low crop prices, relatively high interest rates and increased input costs, fewer are making big-ticket purchases like tractors, combines and farm implements, resulting in a backlog of inventory across the globe. Machinery manufacturer AGCO has about four months of orders with its dealers in North America and is looking to bring that number down to three, Eric Hansotia, AGCO's president and CEO, said in an investor call last week. In general, manufacturers want to optimize their coverage to avoid extra costs and storage fees. "We will continue to focus on under-producing retail demand, coupled with retail market share execution to bring dealer inventories in line with our targeted range," according to Hansotia. Competitors Deere & Co. and CNH have also slowed their production and reduced their workforce numbers throughout the year to account for the down market. While tractor and combine sales wane, manufacturers are expecting precision agriculture sales to grow as farmers look to boost yields and lower day-to-day costs.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 13, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. Consumer Price Index at 7:30 a.m. CST USDA Oil Crops Outlook at 11 a.m. CST USDA Feed, Rice, and Wheat Outlooks at 2 p.m. CST Weather A small system is moving from the Plains into the Mississippi Valley Wednesday morning, bringing scattered showers into the region. Some heavier rain will be possible from the Delta into the Ohio Valley with some thunderstorms later in the day. The Pacific Northwest will continue to have showers moving through as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 12, 2024 |

Cost Down to Raise 2025 Corn Crop Looking ahead to the 2025 corn crop, one company says the cost to raise that crop is down. Farmers National Company says 2025 crop inputs are expected to see a slight reduction compared to 2024. While some farms may experience increased costs for specific reasons, such as adding lime, improving drainage, or boosting fertility, the overall picture suggests a decrease in expenses for most farms. The reduction is primarily anticipated in fertilizer, crop insurance, and interest costs. Seed, chemicals, equipment, labor, and the cost of land are expected to remain stable. FNC expects fertilizer costs to decrease by up to 10 percent. Crop insurance costs are expected to be down in 2025 based on current commodity prices for next year. Interest rates have decreased slightly, with further reductions expected in 2025. As always, FNC says these expectations are based on no major disruptions from weather, worldwide events, or farm bill changes. *********************************************************************************** Kircher Names President of the National Chicken Council The National Chicken Council’s Board of Directors announced that Harrison Kircher is the new President and CEO of the organization, effective January 1, 2025. “On behalf of the NCC Board, I congratulate Harrison on his appointment as the new President and CEO,” says NCC Chairman Bill Griffith. “His dedication, expertise, and leadership have been evident throughout his time with the Council.” Kircher has been a member of the NCC team for 13 years, most recently as the senior vice president of government affairs in 2021. His primary focus there has been advancing NCC’s lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill and educating members of Congress and their staffs on a wide range of policy issues, including agriculture, appropriations, immigration, labor, energy, and international trade. “I’m honored to accept this position and the opportunity to continue working for the chicken industry,” Kircher says. “I’m confident in our future success given the strong team around me.” *********************************************************************************** AFBF Presents First Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence Retired Army Colonel Joe Ricker (RY-ker) of Indiana is the first winner of the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence presented by the American Farm Bureau Federation with support from Farm Credit. Ricker served 30 years in the Army before retiring from a Pentagon logistics post in 2022. Since leaving the Army, Ricker started At Ease Orchard, a nonprofit that introduces veterans, first responders, and their family members to beekeeping and other farm activities. He also founded Veterans in Farming, which provides vets in Indiana with training and support to succeed in farming. Ricker has also served as a veteran outreach coordinator for AgrAbility. “We’re proud to elevate and celebrate Col. Joe Ricker for his past service to our country and current involvement in agriculture and local communities,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices of veterans and their services, and I’m delighted to highlight their contributions to agriculture, too.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Alliance Commends CARB Clean Fuels Alliance America commends the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for passing amendments to the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. The group says that’s another step forward in California’s decarbonization leadership. Clean Fuels acknowledges CARB’s continued commitment to a cleaner future while recognizing there is more work ahead to ensure crop-based renewable fuels are recognized as a long-term solution. “Clean Fuels has enjoyed a long partnership with CARB and is committed to working with staff to ensure that the updated regulations can meet California’s aggressive carbon reduction targets while supporting the agricultural community that is the backbone for our sustainable clean fuels,” says Cory-Ann Wind, director of state regulatory affairs at Clean Fuels Alliance. Since the LCFS was adopted in 2009, California fleets have used increasing amounts of biomass-based diesel to lower emissions and lessen reliance on fossil fuels. Biodiesel is responsible for 45 percent of California’s LCFS progress. *********************************************************************************** USMEF Elects New Chair Steven Hanson, a rancher and cattle feeder from Nebraska was elected chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation at the organization’s Strategic Planning Conference in Tucson, Arizona. Hanson said a priority will be to highlight the partnerships with the various checkoffs that support the work of USMEF around the globe. He also touted the strength that comes from the unified work of all the various sectors of the red meat industry that are involved in the USMEF. Hanson succeeds Minnesota hog producer and grain farmer Randy Spronk. Jay Theiler is the USMEF Chair-Elect and executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Co., a diversified business with operations in every step of the beef supply chain, including ranching cattle feeding, cattle nutrition, and beef processing. Dave Bruntz is USMEF’s vice chair and president of Bruntz Farming and Feeding in Southeastern Nebraska and raises irrigated corn and soybeans and feeds cattle. *********************************************************************************** CDC Wants Expanding H5N1 Testing for Farmworkers A new study recently showed that some dairy workers had signs of H5N1 infection even when they didn’t report feeling sick. As a result, federal health officials called for more testing of employees on farms affected by bird flu. The University of Texas Medical Branch says farmworkers in close contact with infected animals should be tested and offered treatment, even if they show no H5N1 symptoms. The new guidance comes after blood tests for 115 farmworkers in Michigan and Colorado showed that eight workers – seven percent – had antibodies that indicated a previous infection with H5N1 influenza. The purpose of the actions is to keep workers safe, to limit the transmission to humans, and to reduce the possibility of the virus changing. The CDC study provides the largest window to date into how the bird virus first detected in March in dairy cows may be spreading to people.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 12, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain Inspections at 10 a.m. CST Feed Grains Update at 11 a.m. CST Seasonal Average Price Forecast from ERS at 2 p.m. CST Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. CST Weather A system in the Rockies will move out into the Plains later in the day on Tuesday, with scattered showers and a few thunderstorms building into the overnight hours. Conditions will be much drier elsewhere.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 11, 2024 |

USDA Reduces Corn and Soybean Production Estimates More Than Expected This month’s 2024/2025 U.S. corn outlook is for lower production and ending stocks, according to the November WASDE report. Corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, down 60 million from last month on a 0.7-bushel reduction in yield to 183.1 bushels per acre. Harvested area for grain is unchanged at 82.7 million acres. Total use is unchanged at 15 billion bushels. With supply falling and no change to use, corn ending stocks are down to 1.9 billion bushels. U.S. soybean supply and use changes for 2024/2025 include lower production, exports, crush, and ending stocks. Soybean production is forecast at 4.5 billion bushels, down 121 million on reduced yields. The largest production changes are for Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota. Exports are lowered 25 million bushels to 1.8 billion on lower supplies and sales to date. Crush is lowered 15 million bushels to 2.4 billion, reflecting lower soybean meal domestic disappearance and exports. Soybean ending stocks are lowered 80 million bushels to 470 million bushels. ************************************************************************************************************* USDA Tightens Numbers as Harvest Nears Completion The latest month-over-month adjustments to USDA’s Crop Production Forecast reflect tightening of numbers as harvest winds down. The National Agricultural Statistics Service reports lower production forecast in November for major spring planted crops, soybean production forecasts lowered 3% from the previous month, and corn and cotton production declining by less than 1% from October. Yet record to near-record marks are still indicated in various production categories, the second-highest total production for soybeans, fueled by the second-highest yield total on record, and record yields for corn, contributing to the third highest production totals on record for that crop. For example, even with the slight production forecast adjustments, the season-ending average price estimates for corn, beans and cotton remained unchanged from the previous month. *********************************************************************************************************** EPA Urged to Ban Paraquat More than 50 U.S. lawmakers are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to ban the use of a weedkiller linked to Parkinson’s disease and other health risks to humans. In a letter to the agency, seven U.S. senators said that paraquat, a chemical commonly used on farms across the country to protect row crops, fruits and vegetables, is a highly toxic pesticide whose continued use cannot be justified given its harms to farmworkers and rural communities. The call for a nationwide ban came after 47 U.S. Representatives sent a similar letter to the EPA earlier in October. According to findings from a recent study, paraquat could more than double a person’s odds of developing Parkinson’s if not sprayed more than 500 meters from where people live and work. ************************************************************************************************************* CDC Calling for More H5N1 Testing of Dairy Farm Employees A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that some dairy farm employees showed signs of infection, even when they didn’t report feeling sick. The CDC concluded that more bird flu testing of dairy farm employees is required. The purpose of these actions is to keep workers safe, to limit the transmission of H5N1 to humans and to reduce the possibility of the virus changing. The new CDC study provides the largest window to date into how the bird virus detected last March in dairy cows may be spreading to people. The study suggests the virus has infected more humans than the 46 farmworkers currently identified in the U.S. Nearly all were in contact with infected dairy cows or infected poultry. The scientific community considers every additional infection in animals or humans a chance for the virus to change in potentially dangerous ways. ************************************************************************************************************* California Voters Reject Ban on ‘Factory Farming’ A proposal to phase out large livestock operations in a major California agricultural county failed. California voters in the major agricultural region of Sonoma (suh-NO-mah) County overwhelmingly voted down a controversial ballot proposal to phase out large farms in a win for the meat industry. The ballot initiative, Measure J, which about 85% of the voters opposed, would have banned large livestock farms, also known as concentrated animal feeding operations. Proponents said the measure would protect animal welfare as well as provide a national model to transform food systems away from large-scale agriculture. Around two dozen CAFOs operate in Sonoma County, including four owned by poultry giant Perdue Farms. However, the majority of the state’s CAFOs are in California’s Central Valley. The ballot measure in the rural county spurred broad pushback from farmers, who expressed concern that the loss of large farms could have ripple effects throughout the agricultural economy. ************************************************************************************************************* Floods, Winter Weather Expected in Oklahoma and Texas Flood warnings and watches remain in effect in much of central Oklahoma and north-central Texas amid ongoing storms, according to the National Weather Service. Several rivers were overrunning their banks in parts of the region Friday morning as rain and thunderstorms were forecast to continue into the weekend, the agency said. In eastern Colorado and New Mexico and the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles, blizzard warnings were in effect for the weekend. As much as 10 inches of snow are forecast for parts of the panhandles as long as temperatures stay low enough. Prolonged rain rather than snow will promote melting of existing snowfall, limiting new accumulations to only a few inches or less, with lesser impacts, the agency said. Any locations that are able to stay as snow longer before precipitation ends could see 5 to 10 inches of new accumulations and increased impacts.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 11, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Veteran's Day Holiday: U.S. bond market closed, most U.S. futures will trade, Canada markets are closed. Weather A few showers will go through the Great Lakes and East Coast while the next system moves into the West, but most areas of the country are quiet and dry for Monday. It is also warm by November standards for most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 8, 2024 |

Speculation Starts on Next Ag Secretary Speculation has already begun on who the next Secretary of Agriculture will be when Donald Trump returns to the White House in January. Successful Farming says Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, former ambassador Kip Tom, and Ted McKinney of NASDA are among a handful of people viewed as potential nominees to run the Department of Agriculture. Incoming presidents typically try to announce their nominees before the year-end holidays, although Trump didn’t announce Sonny Perdue to lead USDA until two days before his inauguration. Miller was initially mentioned for USDA after Trump won his first term. Tom was the U.S. ambassador to the UN agencies for food and agriculture in Rome during the first term. McKinney, the undersecretary for trade in the first administration, is now the CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has also been mentioned because his term expires in December. *********************************************************************************** South Dakota Voters Turn Down Pipeline Regulation Bill Referred Law 21 in South Dakota would have created new requirements for regulating linear transmission facilities, including carbon dioxide pipelines, and allowed counties to assess a surcharge on certain pipelines. It also sought to establish a “Landowners Bill of Rights.” The numbers are showing the state’s voters said “no” to the ballot measure, which put the ethanol industry and landowners on opposite sides. Iowa-based Summit Carbon Solutions wants to construct a $5.5 billion, 2,500-mile pipeline network. The lines would carry carbon emissions from over 50 ethanol plants in multiple Midwest states to storage deep underground in North Dakota. The company will apply for a permit in South Dakota on November 19, 2024. Supporters say the pipeline is crucial for developing future aviation fuel markets for the Midwest ethanol industry, which buys one-third of the nation’s corn. Opponents questioned the forced use of their property and raised concerns about possible ruptures releasing hazardous gas. *********************************************************************************** Winter Flow Slowing in the Missouri River Gavins Point Dam releases in South Dakota will be reduced in late November as flow support for navigation ends. Releases are currently at 32,000 cubic feet per second. “We will continue to make releases from Gavins Point Dam to provide flow support at a level of 500 cubic feet per second less than full service through the end of the navigation support flow system,” says John Remus, Chief of the Core of Engineers. “The flow support season will end on December 1.” Release reductions to the winter rate of 12,000 CFS are scheduled to begin around November 22. Releases will be reduced gradually until they reach a rate of 15,000 cubic feet per second. October runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 0.5 million acre-feet, which is 43 percent of the average. About 95 percent of the Basin is either abnormally dry or in a drought. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Policy Meeting in December The United States Cattlemen’s Association will host its 2024 Annual Meeting December 5-7 in San Antonio, Texas, at the InterContinental Hotel. Each year, USCA brings together its industry members and leaders together to discuss current policy and issues facing the industry. This year, USCA will host panel discussions on animal IDs, marketing, competition, livestock risk protection, and new and emerging technologies within the industry. “The USCA Annual Meeting is an opportunity for producers and members to come together and discuss the issues that will guide the organization for the year ahead,” says USCA President Justin Tupper. “Each year, the meeting serves as the guidepost for how and what USCA will focus on in terms of policy and issue priorities.” The Annual Meeting kicks off with a “Meet the Officers and Staff event on Thursday evening. The meeting gets busy on Saturday with a full day of panels from industry experts. *********************************************************************************** Farm-to-School Program Applications Now Open The USDA is continuing its support for local foods in schools by opening applications for the 2025 Patrick Leahy (LAY-hee) Farm to School Grants. For the first time, USDA is allowing organizations to select the type of Farm to School Grant that best fits their needs by offering three different requests for applications. The Implementation Grant supports establishing or expanding comprehensive farm-to-school projects. The State Agency Grant helps state-level agencies implement local sourcing and agricultural education activities. The Turnkey Grant is for organizations interested in projects related to launching or enhancing farm-to-school activities, agriculture education, or edible gardens. Around the nation, K-12 schools serve meals to about 30 million children every school days. These meals provide critical nutrition to children and the foundation for our nation to have a healthier future. When local foods are incorporated into meals, it benefits the students, supply chains, and producers. *********************************************************************************** Updated Estimates of Renewable Diesel Through 2026 University of Illinois analysts looked into the future of renewable diesel production in the U.S. and saw some headwinds. Renewable diesel production capacity has exploded in recent years, increasing by more than three billion gallons. This substantially impacted fats and oils feedstock markets. However, the profitability of renewable diesel has taken a hit in the last year. The industry began to produce at levels greater than the demand ceiling set by the annual renewable volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Farmdoc Daily says the bloom is off the renewable diesel boom that began in 2021. There’s a list of announced building projects that could add substantial production capacity in the future. However, none of these projects have broken ground and started construction. “Until there is confirmation of actual construction activity, it’s prudent to exclude the announced projects in projecting renewable diesel production capacity for 2027 or later,” the Farmdoc experts added.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 8, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA November WASDE Report and Crop Production at 11 a.m. CST FAS World Markets and Trade Updates at 11:15 a.m. CST CFTC Commitments of Traders report at 2:30 p.m. CST Weather An upper-level system is developing a stronger low-pressure system in the Central and Southern Plains on Friday, with widespread showers and thunderstorms as well as continued heavy snow in Colorado and New Mexico. The rest of the country will be rather dry while Hurricane Rafael continues to sit in the Gulf and stay away from the U.S. coastline.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 7, 2024 |

September Meat Exports Above 2023 September U.S. pork and beef exports were higher year-over-year. That’s according to data from USDA compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Pork exports are well-positioned to set annual volume and value records in 2024. September pork exports totaled 238,047 metric tons, up eight percent from last year, while value climbed six percent to $685 million. Pork exports through September were on a record pace to Mexico, as are shipments to Central America, Colombia, and several Caribbean Markets. Through the first three quarters of this year, pork exports were five percent above last year’s pace at 2.3 million metric tons, with the value seven percent higher at $6.36 billion. U.S. beef exports reached 103,980 metric tons in September, up five percent year-over-year, while export value rose six percent to $843.8 million. January-September exports increased five percent in value to $7.82 billion despite volume dropping by two percent to 960,814 metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Lower Ag GHG Emissions in 2022 Farming activities in the U.S. accounted for 10.5 percent of America’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2022. From 2021 to 2022, agricultural greenhouse gas emissions decreased from 681.6 to 663.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and decreased from 10.8 percent to 10.5 percent as a share of the entire U.S. economy’s emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that in 2022, agriculture emitted 390.1 million metric tons as nitrous oxide emissions directly as nitrous oxide, 227 million metric tons of methane, 47.9 MMT directly as on-farm carbon dioxide, and indirectly emitted 29.7 MMT through electricity the agricultural sector uses. Ag practices that emit nitrous oxide include nitrogen fertilizer application and manure management. Major sources of agricultural methane emissions include enteric fermentation, manure management, and rice cultivation. The EPA has identified the industrial sector as the largest contributor to total greenhouse gas emissions at 26 percent, followed by transportation and commercial. *********************************************************************************** Two Ag Committee Incumbents Lose The House and Senate Agriculture Committees will see changes to membership during the 2025 legislative session. Farm Policy News says at least two incumbent members, New York Representative Marcus Molinaro and Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, were not re-elected. Representative Molinaro had served on the committee since his election in 2022 and lost his race to Democrat Josh Riley. On the Senate Ag Committee side, incumbent Brown lost his race to Republican challenger Bernie Moreno. There were several incumbents who won re-election, including Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican who held on to her Senate seat, besting challenger Dan Osborn. Iowa Republican Zach Nunn held onto his House seat in Iowa’s Third Congressional District. Democratic Illinois Representative Eric Sorenson is returning for a second term, as is Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat. In New Mexico, Democrat Gabe Vasquez won a second term, and Representative Jahana Hayes won re-election to the U.S. House representing Connecticut. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bailout Bill Would Cost $21 Billion Industry analysts say the Farm Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act sponsored by Mississippi Representative Trent Kelly may be too much money for Congress. The estimated $21 billion cost might make things more difficult for a new farm bill. Kelly says his bill keeps farmers in operation despite high costs and lower commodity prices, and it’s supported by a dozen of America’s biggest farm groups. Analysts in a Farmdoc Daily blog estimate that for the major commodities with a specified payment rate calculation outlined in the legislation, the FARM Act would result in $21 billion in ad hoc support payments to farmers. The bill may also be interpreted by those on Capitol Hill as evidence of U.S. farm policy shortcomings, and that may delay work on the next farm bill into 2025. Kelly’s bill allows payments of up to $350,000 per farmer. The farm program typically sets a limit of $125,000 per farmer. *********************************************************************************** Treasury Expands Foreign Land Purchase Oversight The U.S. Treasury Department issued a final rule that significantly expands its ability to review real estate transactions by foreign persons near more than 60 military bases across 30 states. The Treasury, as Chair of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), says the committee has the authority to review certain real estate transactions near specified military installations and to take the appropriate actions it deems necessary. Nearly 60 military installations will now be added to an existing list of military installations around which CFIUS has jurisdiction over real estate transactions and its jurisdiction will be extended around 10 existing installations. “We continue to use strong screening tools to advance America’s national security and protect our military installations from external threats,” says Janet Yellin, Secretary of the Treasury. She also says this final rule is a significant milestone in safeguarding critical U.S. military and defense installations. *********************************************************************************** Farmer Mac Income Jumps 23 Percent The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, or Farmer Mac, the nation’s secondary market provider that increases the accessibility of financing for agriculture and rural America, announced the recent fiscal quarter results. “Farm Mac delivered another solid quarter, demonstrating yet again the benefits of our successful efforts to continue to diversify revenue streams, taking advantage of our strong capital base and uninterrupted access to low-cost capital,” says Brad Nordholm, president and CEO of Farmer Mac. “Growth across our loan portfolio into newer lines of business and higher spread businesses continues to pay dividends through changing market cycles.” The third quarter ended on September 30, 2024, and net interest income was $86.8 million, compared to $87.6 million in the third quarter of 2023. Farmer Mac provided $2 billion in liquidity and lending capacity to lenders serving rural America. The core earnings in the report were $44.9 million, or $4.10 per diluted common share.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday November 7, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets FAS Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CST FOMC meeting continues with interest rate decision at 1 p.m. CST followed by Fed Chair Powell press conference at 1:30 p.m. CST Weather An upper-level low in the Four Corners area is producing some heavy snow in Colorado and New Mexico early Thursday morning. Showers are forecast to expand across the southwestern Plains throughout the day with heavy rain and thunderstorms for west Texas up into Kansas. Showers continue over the Southeast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 6, 2024 |

Pre-Election Farmer Sentiment Bounces Back October provided a surprising pre-election bounce in farmer sentiment as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 115, 27 points above the September index. The biggest driver of the sentiment improvement was an increase in producers’ confidence in the future. The Future Expectations Index jumped 30 points to 124. The Current Conditions Index also rose in October but by a smaller amount. With a reading of 95, the Current Conditions Index confirmed that farmers think economic conditions this year are worse than last year and the lowest since 2015-2016, which were the early days of a multi-year downturn in the farm economy. Producers this month expressed some optimism that economic conditions will improve and not precipitate an extended downturn in the farm economy. For example, the percentage of producers who expect bad times in the upcoming year dropped from 73 percent in September to 53 percent in October. *********************************************************************************** Industry May See Brazil as Hub for SAF Is Brazil already leading the pack in the race to produce sustainable aviation fuel? Farm Policy News says a global push to cut down carbon emissions from air travel has groups betting on Brazil to become a top global center for SAF. Developers are said to be considering putting plants in Brazil because it’s the world’s largest producer of ethanol, which can be used to produce SAF. Brazil also has an abundance of cheap crops to make biofuels, giving the South American country a leg up on competitors like the U.S. Many of Brazil’s supplies are reported to rank better in terms of carbon emissions, a key to meeting requirements for future SAF manufacturing. Organizations like Airbus, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and others put together a study on the topic, and they say preliminary data shows Brazil has the potential to produce over 13 billion gallons by 2030. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Grains Council Takes Roadshow to Mexico Staff from the U.S. Grains Council recently traveled to Mexico for the 2024 Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow. They conducted a series of informative presentations on proper grain handling and storage methods that can preserve grain quality and save money throughout the supply chain. USGC Mexico Director Heidi Bringenberg and several others spoke to end-users of U.S. feed grains in several Mexican states. “We’re excited to have seen great attendance and active participation from feed millers and beef, swine, and poultry producers during the roadshow,” Bringenberg said. “That allowed the Council to share storage and handling techniques that prevent grain quality deterioration and demonstrate value.” The Council staff members said Mexico is U.S. agriculture’s biggest trading partner, and it’s important to show purchasers and producers in the country that American farmers aren’t resting on their laurels. “We always want to support and grow the Mexican market throughout the supply chain,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Registration is Open for USDA’s 101st Ag Outlook Forum The USDA says registration is open for the 101st Agricultural Outlook Forum. The event titled “Meeting Tomorrow’s Challenges, Today” will be held in Washington D.C. on February 27-28, 2025. Additionally, all Forum sessions will be live-streamed on a virtual platform. The Forum will feature a presentation on the 2025 outlook for the U.S. agricultural economy and trade by USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer. The program will also include a distinguished panel of guest speakers and a number of breakout sessions organized by USDA agencies that will explore a wide range of current issues. More than 100 experts from government, industry, and academia will provide insights on key topics like commodity and food price forecasts, farm income, U.S. and global agricultural trade, the future of biofuels, climate change strategies, and advancements in biotechnology. The in-person event will also feature exhibit booths by different USDA agencies providing information about recent USDA-funded innovations. *********************************************************************************** Food for Opportunity Launches The USDA launched the Food for Opportunity Program, or FFO, designed to expand opportunities for non-traditional U.S. commodities to qualify for various international food assistance programs. Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, announced the new pilot program managed by the Foreign Agricultural Service. FAS will solicit applicants to apply for FFO and provide non-traditional commodities to be tested at active McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program projects. “The goal of Food for Opportunity is to assess the suitability of commodities for use in USDA international food assistance programs and to evaluate potential future uses,” Taylor says. In seeking stakeholder input through a Request for Information, USDA received 26 comments covering 44 commodities, foods, and items to assist with designing the FFO. In the weeks ahead, the FAS will solicit applicants to run the pilot program based on the input from the RFI. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Shearing Grants Available The American Sheep Industry Association has once again set aside $15,000 in grants to assist developing shearers and mentors. There is a large and continuing need for sheep shearers across the U.S. Domestic shearers are becoming fewer, and it is increasingly difficult to bring international shearers into the U.S. Seeing the need for more shearers for both large and small sheep operations, the ASI Wool Council developed this grant program to incentivize the development of domestic shearers. The program will support shearers as they increase the quality of their shearing and the number of sheep they shear each day, thus working to build their income and longevity in the shearing industry. Additionally, as mentors provide developing shearers with education and an avenue to shear, they may also apply for assistance under the grant program. The grant will be given to ten developing shearers and/or mentors. For information, go to sheepusa.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday November 6, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets USDA Livestock and Meat International Trade Data at 11 a.m. CST EIA weekly petroleum status report including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CST Weather A front is moving from the Lower Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley where showers will continue for Wednesday. A small tropical feature will bring some heavy rain to portions of the Southeast as well. An upper-level low is settling into the Four Corners region. Heavy snow is falling in Colorado and the southwestern Plains will see several days of precipitation before the low moves northeast this weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 5, 2024 |

Lame-Duck Farm Bill Will be Difficult While the lame-duck session of Congress represents one last chance at a farm bill, industry experts say it would require compromise on a number of tricky issues. Farm Policy News says it would require House and Senate leaders to agree on spending in quite a few important areas. One report says Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow holds the key to finishing a farm bill this year. The question is whether she can work out a deal with the other major farm bill players. Some insiders say Stabenow would like one last farm bill completion as a legacy item as she isn’t running for re-election. An AgWeb report from Farm Journal says some long-time Washington contacts give the odds of getting a farm bill done at only 15 percent. A veteran farm lobbyist said the simple resolution is for Republicans to drop SNAP cut demands and Democrats to agree to higher reference prices. *********************************************************************************** Minnesota to Get SAF Plant Running by 2030 Moorhead (more head), Minnesota, will get a sustainable aviation fuel production facility up and running by 2030. A company called DG Fuels says it has patented a system to use agricultural and timber waste to produce low-carbon fuels. The plant will produce 193 million gallons of zero- or low-CO2 lifecycle emissions SAF every year, and production is slated to begin in 2030. Moorehead, in Clay County, Minnesota, is known for its productive farmland and abundant timber resources and stands to generate millions of dollars per year in additional on-farm income by converting corn stover and timber waste into a high-value SAF. The project will provide 650 quality jobs, offer a local community coordinator, and includes a comprehensive multi-million-dollar community benefits package that will enhance the county’s infrastructure, quality of life, and local strategic plan. “Adding value to our agricultural economy is a top priority,” says Moorehead Mayor Shelly Carlson. *********************************************************************************** Meaningful Assistance Could Be Coming to Farmers The Farm Assistance and Revenue Mitigation (FARM) Act was introduced last month and sponsored by more than 40 members of Congress. It’s also endorsed by several of America’s largest commodity groups, including the National Sorghum Producers. The legislation is intended to meet farmers’ immediate financial needs through economic assistance for the 2024 crop year. The proposed payment structure utilizes per-acre cost of production to provide a payment that is 60 percent of economic loss on eligible acres. With respect to payment limitations, persons or entities that derive less than 75 percent of income from farming would be subject to a limitation of $175,000. For those with at least 75 percent of their income coming from farming, they would be subject to a limitation of $350,000. The National Sorghum Producers says the potential scale of payments has sparked conversation on Capitol Hill, and this is a step in the right direction. *********************************************************************************** Organizations Collecting Donations for Ranchers Hit by Wildfires North Dakota rancher organizations are collecting donations, supplies, and labor to assist ranchers in the northwest part of the state who were devastated by wildfires in October. An estimated 120,000 acres were burned up by wildfires last month, with high winds of up to 78 miles per hour helping the fires to tear through the region. The damage was immense, with farmers and ranchers losing many head of cattle, stored feedstocks, fences, gates, hayfields, and crop fields. They also lost farmsteads, pastures, outbuildings, farmhouses, and equipment. “The investigations we are handling are ongoing and remain in the beginning stages,” says North Dakota State Fire Marshall Doug Nelson. “Early indications suggest no evidence of intentionally set fires at the scenes we have responded to.” He also says an official cause of origin report will be available when the investigation is complete. That usually takes between one to two months to wrap up. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit System Income Up Seven Percent to $5.91 Billion The Farm Credit System reported that combined net income was relatively stable at $1.98 billion for the third quarter of 2024, as compared with $2 billion for the third quarter of 2023. For the nine months ending on September 20, 2024, FCS’s combined net income increased 7.3 percent to $5.91 billion. That’s compared to $5.51 billion for the same period last year. “The System continued to achieve favorable results during the third quarter and first nine months of 2024,” says Tracey McCabe, President and CEO of the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation. “Overall credit quality remains strong, despite an increase in non-accrual loans, but results going forward may be impacted by a more challenging agricultural economic and volatile political environment.” Increases in net interest income primarily resulted from higher levels of average earning assets, driven largely by increased loan volumes and, to a lesser extent, growth in investments held for liquidity. *********************************************************************************** Voting Open for NCBA National Anthem Contest Four finalists have been selected in the 12th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is inviting the public to vote for the winner through November 15. The four finalists are Jaci Dietrick of Oklahoma, Payton Goodman of Texas, Anah Higbie of Kansas, and Hayden Ladd of Michigan. Videos of the finalists are available for viewing and voting at convention.ncba.org. The public can vote once per day per person through November 15, and the winner will be announced on November 21. The winner will perform the “Star Spangled Banner” at the Opening General Session of CattleCon 2025 and will receive round trip airfare to San Antonio, Texas, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans, and a shirt from Roper or Stetson. For more information, to register or reserve housing at CattleCon 2025, go to convention.ncba.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday November 5, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Trade Deficit at 7:30am CT U.S. Election Day Weather A multi-low storm that has brought widespread heavy rain to the Southern Plains into the Midwest continues to push northeast through the Great Lakes Tuesday with heavy rain and thunderstorms continuing from the Mississippi Valley into the Midwest. Another storm system in the northern Rockies will be dropping south through the mountains Tuesday as well, with some showers into the Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 4, 2024 |

China Pivot from US Farm Imports Bolsters it Against Trade War Risks China's push to shift its food import sources since 2018 has put it in a better position to impose tit-for-tat tariffs on U.S. farm goods with less harm to its food security if trade friction with Washington flares after the U.S. presidential election. Reuters reports the threat of a trade war looms for China, the world's top importer of farm products such as soybeans and corn, with Republican candidate Donald Trump floating blanket 60% tariffs on Chinese goods in a bid to boost U.S. manufacturing. His opponent Kamala Harris, a Democrat, is also expected to confront China on trade. China’s pivot began in 2018, when Beijing slapped 25% tariffs on imports of U.S. soybeans, beef, pork, wheat, corn and sorghum, retaliating against duties imposed by the Trump administration on $300 billion worth of Chinese goods. China has decreased U.S. purchases, buying more grain from Brazil, Argentina, Ukraine and Australia, even as it boosts domestic production. ************************************************************************************************************* Cross-Laminated Timber Market is Projected to Reach US$ 3.7 Billion by 2032 The global cross-laminated timber (CLT) market size reached US $1.586 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 3.7 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6% during 2024-2032. Europe leads the market, accounting for the largest cross-laminated timber market share. Residential use accounts for the majority of the market share in the application segment due to the need for affordable and environmentally friendly housing options. Spruce remains the leading raw material in CLT. Wall panels remain a dominant segment in the market, as they offer superior insulation, structural integrity, and installation speed, which makes them perfect for a range of construction projects. *********************************************************************************************************** Specialty Crop Funding Will Help South Carolina Farmers In August, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced $603,000 in funding awarded to South Carolina through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Through this program, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture funds projects that strengthen South Carolina’s specialty crop industry through marketing, education, and research. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops. “Each year, we find new ways to use the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to help South Carolina farmers thrive,” said South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers. “These grants encourage growers to expand their markets, take informed risks, and grow more local crops. Supporting farmers is what it’s all about.” A full project list is available at ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp. ************************************************************************************************************* Could Biden Declare Shaver Lake a National Monument and 'Completely Change' It? Activist group Unite the Parks called on President Joe Biden to transform 1.4 million acres of Sierra National Forest land into a national monument, and it has the backing of three state lawmakers from the Valley. But three local county supervisors wrote to the president on Monday, warning him the change could undo forest management efforts, end off-road vehicle recreation and motorized boating, and possibly threaten private property rights. “A lot of the great work that has been taking place the last five or six years to just really reduce the high hazard fuels would be effectively eliminated,” said Fresno County Board Chair Nathan Magsig, and co-author of the letter to Biden. “There’s also a lot of private properties in the area that could be drawn into this (proposed) Range of Light area. And so private property rights, in my opinion, could be in jeopardy. How Shaver operates today could be completely changed.” ************************************************************************************************************* Farm Loans Soar as Ag Economy Deteriorates Farmers are taking out loans at a rate and scale not seen in years as weakened crop prices weigh on the agricultural sector, according to a report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. The volume of new operating loans increased at its fastest pace since 2017, the report said, with commercial banks issuing 40% more of these loans to farmers over last year. Farmers are not only taking out more loans, but also borrowing higher amounts. For the first time in at least two decades, loans larger than $1 million made up the majority of lending volume. Growth in loan volumes was concentrated among small and mid-sized lenders, the Federal Reserve report said, underscoring difficulties for family farms and other smaller operations without deep pockets to weather the volatility. Farmers are grappling with weakened global demand and a glut of corn and soybeans, which has contributed to a decline in the prices paid to producers. ************************************************************************************************************* New Jersey Cranberry Farms Struggle Amid Worst Drought They’ve Ever Seen The severe lack of rain means a big financial hit to operations because farmers can’t rely on the local streams and rivers to flood the bogs for harvest. Generations of the Lee family gathered this fall, as they have every year since 1868, to harvest cranberries at the Lee Brothers Farm in Chatsworth, Burlington County. Stephen V. Lee III, 78, has farmed the fruit for decades. He walked Thursday on the sand road of a bog filled with scarlet berries that bobbed at the water’s surface. Workers, including family members, stood hip-deep in the water, raking berries toward a submerged vacuum that sucked the fruit to the top of a truck. Cranberry harvesting is an annual colorful ritual in New Jersey. But this year is anything but typical. The data showed more than 12 inches of rain fell from August through October in 2022 and 2023. This year: 1.54 inches for the same period, and zero for October.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday November 4, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Grain Export Inspections at 10 am CT Crop Progress report at 3 pm CT Weather A front and some low-pressure centers are active across the middle of the country for Monday, causing areas of continued heavy rain and potential for severe weather across the Southern Plains. To continue the active pattern, another feature is moving into the Pacific Northwest and will be an important player for the southwestern Plains later this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 1, 2024 |

H5N1 Found in Oregon Backyard Hog Farm The National Pork Producers Council confirms there are no food safety concerns about the nation’s pork supply after H5N1 was detected this week in an Oregon backyard farm. NPPC continues to work closely with the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Veterinary Services and pork industry stakeholders on disease surveillance programs. “The confirmed case in Oregon poses no threat to consumer health or food safety as properly handled and cooked pork products remain safe for consumption,” says Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO. “The entire pork industry remains committed to safeguarding food safety and human and animal health.” With rigorous on-farm biosecurity programs in place, the pork industry has worked alongside APHIS since 2009 to carry out the swine influenza surveillance program to identify viruses circulating in swine. “Pork producers have always been proactive and diligent about implementing biosecurity plans as part of their daily production practices,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. *********************************************************************************** 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Data Now Available The 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey results showed 212,714 farms with 53.1 million irrigated acres, which included 81 million acre-feet applied in the U.S. “The 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey is conducted every five years and expands on the data collected in the 2022 Census of Agriculture,” says NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons. “The report offers detailed, comprehensive, up-to-date information specific to the agriculture industry’s use, management, and investment of water supplies and irrigation systems.” Among the report’s highlights, the total amount of water used in 2023, at 81 million acre-feet, was 2.8 percent below 2018. Five states accounted for almost one-half of the irrigated acres and more than half of all water applied – Arkansas, California, Idaho, Nebraska, and Texas. The largest portion of irrigated farmland acres in the United States was dedicated to cropland, including grains and oilseed crops, vegetables, nursery and greenhouse products, and hay crops. *********************************************************************************** Lawsuit Filed Against Mandatory Livestock Ear Tags The New Civil Liberties Alliance filed a complaint against USDA and its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The group says the new rule requiring electronically readable (EID) ear tags for certain cattle and bison transported across states lines is unlawful compared to the long-used visual tags. The NCLA, representing ranchers, farmers, and livestock producers who move cattle across state lines, urges the U.S. District Court for South Dakota to halt this illegal attempt to eliminate an already in-place efficient means of cattle identification. “USDA and APHIS are pursuing their objectives without any regard to the statutory limitations placed on them by Congress,” says Kara Rollins, Litigation Counsel for NCLA. “Sadly, in this instance, America’s ranchers have been left holding the bag and footing the bill for this unlawful rule.” NCLA says the new APHIS rule imposes punishing new financial and practical burdens, particularly on smaller and independent cattle producers. *********************************************************************************** Pork Herd Contractions Slowing in Most Regions A new Q4 2024 pork report from Rabobank says improved profitability is slowing herd contractions in most regions. However, producers are taking a cautious approach to expansion. Disease pressure in parts of Europe, South Korea, and Southeast Asia are slowing production growth, as are U.S. slaughter constraints and EU regulatory headwinds. Questions around consumer sentiment and pork demand are also weighing on expansion decisions. Political challenges are also heating up and creating a tenuous trade environment. Changes in the Mexican and Japanese administrations, a U.S. election, and the trend toward regionalized trade could create a less supportive trade environment for pork in 2025. China’s anti-dumping case against the EU also highlights the industry’s need to remain nimble. Recent labor and weather-related logistical challenges only compound trade uncertainty. While global feed levels are better than in past years, dry weather in South America and Asia may limit production in those areas. *********************************************************************************** Washington Port Expanding Rail Capacity The Federal Railroad Administration announced the Port of Kalama in Washington state was awarded over 26 million dollars for a rail expansion project. The Port of Kalama and the Tacoma Export Marketing Company (TEMCO - a joint venture by Cargill and CHS) are expanding the rail unloading and staging infrastructure at the terminal. The facility routinely experiences significant delays due to its limited tracks. An unloaded train often remains stationary due to the railroad companies not being able to quickly collect and send the cars elsewhere. Loaded trains are often held out of the facility until the empty trains are moved. The project will add 25,000 linear feet of rail track that will stage loaded or unloaded trains so the actual unloading infrastructure is free and available to operate when needed. The Port of Kalama and TEMCO estimate this will increase efficiency by 25-30 percent, especially during shipping season. *********************************************************************************** USA Awards Funds for Fertilizer and Meat Processing Projects USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small announced that her department is making investments to strengthen America’s farms and businesses. The investments will expand innovative domestic fertilizer production and increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, which in turn will increase competition and lower fertilizer costs for farmers and food costs for consumers. The Department awarded over $120 million to six fertilizer production projects in Arkansas, California, Illinois, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin. Business owners can use the funding for help completing different tasks like modernizing equipment, adopting new technologies, and building production plants. USDA is also awarding $20 million in funding to 26 projects through the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program to help expand processing capacity within the meat and poultry industry. “When we invest in domestic supply chains, we drive down input costs and increase options for farmers,” says Torres Small. “These investments help bring jobs back to the U.S.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday November 1, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. employment report including unemployment rate and wage data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Brazil agency IMEA weekly soybean planting progress out early afternoon. USDA Oilseed and Grain Crushings w/ Co-Products production at 2 p.m. CDT CFTC Commitment of Traders data at 2:30 p.m. CDT Weather A somewhat quieter day is expected Friday with some light showers in the Southeast and Northern Plains. The next system will start to move into the Southern Plains though and showers will be increasing, especially overnight into Saturday.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 31, 2024 |

USDA Sending Natural Disaster Aid to Farmers The USDA is issuing payments this week to agricultural producers impacted by natural disasters. The assistance includes $143 million in crop insurance indemnities for Florida producers impacted by Hurricane Milton and over $92 million for livestock producers nationwide who have faced increased supplemental feed costs as a result of forage losses due to 2022 qualifying drought and wildfire events. “Florida farmers, livestock producers, and forest landowners have been hit hard by hurricanes this year, and we’re continuing our efforts to help producers recover following hurricanes like Milton,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Additionally, payments for America’s livestock producers serve as another example of how we’re leveraging every available resource to help as many people as we can on the road to recovery.” Producers with federal crop insurance coverage through the Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index endorsement and Tropical Storm Option will see their payments from insurance providers in the next 30 days. *********************************************************************************** Lack of 45Z Guidance Already Slowing Production Reports say agricultural companies like Cargill and Bunge are slowing their soybean purchases due to uncertainty over U.S. biofuels policy. Farm Policy News says some producers are putting off some purchases of soy oil for use early next year, which is also dampening demand for soybeans. By mid-October, most fuel retailers had only bought about ten percent of their biodiesel feedstocks for the coming first quarter in 2025. That compares with more than 80 percent bought by this time of year over the past ten years. The industry is still waiting for the Treasury Department to issue guidance for the clean fuel production credit set to begin in January. Producers aren’t eager to book a lot of soybean oil until that guidance is released. Industry insiders say if the Treasury doesn’t release the regulations on the 45Z production credit, a 45-million-gallon-a-year biodiesel plant in northwest Iowa may have to idle. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Winter Wheat Health in Rough Shape To the surprise of many in the industry, the U.S. winter wheat crop is in much worse shape than they expected. Shipping News says drought has strengthened since the middle of this year throughout rural America. However, there may be a break coming as ample rains are slated for the central portion of the country during the next several days. That could mean wheat’s health struggle could be a shorter-lived issue, but it all depends on how much rain those areas receive. The most recent crop rating showed 38 percent of the winter wheat crop is in good to excellent condition, while pre-report estimates from industry analysts averaged 47 percent. Kansas, which accounts for a quarter of all U.S. winter wheat, saw its crop rating at 38 percent, two percentage points below the five-year average. Last week, around 58 percent of U.S. winter wheat areas were experiencing drought, the largest number since 2023. *********************************************************************************** Four Top Corn-Growing States Lagging in Harvest Progress Four of the top 18 corn-growing states have 65 percent or less of their corn crop harvested. Successful Farming says of those top 18 states, Pennsylvania had the lowest percentage of corn harvested as of October 27 at 50 percent. That’s still ahead of their five-year average by six percentage points and further ahead of last year’s pace that saw 34 percent of the crop harvested by late October. Colorado had harvested 58 percent of its corn crop as of October 27 and was only one percentage point behind its five-year average pace. Michigan farmers had harvested 62 percent of their corn, dramatically outpacing the five-year average of 35 percent. At this time last year, only 28 percent of the crop was harvested. Wisconsin farmers had completed 65 percent of their corn harvest compared to a five-year average of 35 percent. Wisconsin farmers had 1.01 million acres still to harvest. *********************************************************************************** Broiler Industry Provides 1.4 Million Jobs, $450 Billion Impact The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Chicken Council, the National Turkey Federation, and United Egg Producers have released an economic impact study of the poultry industry. The report highlights the positive impact the industry has on jobs, wages, and federal and state revenue in the U.S. The study breaks down the industry into three categories: broilers, turkey, and eggs. The broiler industry provides 1,376,000 jobs, $90.9 billion in wages, $36.7 billion in government revenue, and $449 billion in economic activity. “This tool shows the positive economic impact the poultry and egg industry have on our nations and communities, and we are pleased to continue providing it,” says Nath (NAYTH) Morris, president of USPOULTRY. Gary Kushner, interim president of the National Chicken Council, says, “Our chicken producers have a positive impact that stretches from coast to coast, hits every sector of the economy, and is felt in every Congressional district. *********************************************************************************** Company Transforms Organic Byproducts into Feed and Fertilizer Denali (deh-NAHL-lee), a company that recycles organics, says it has transformed over 10 billion pounds of organic byproducts into natural fertilizers. The company’s newly released sustainability report details findings from 2023. The report also shows that Denali collected 1.7 billion pounds of food waste, with 75 percent recycled into organic, nutrient-rich animal feed. The report shows that Denali’s recycling efforts produced enough natural fertilizer to support more than 100,000 acres of farmland and manufactured enough animal feed to nourish over 40,000 cattle across five states. The EPA says Denali’s converting 1.3 billion pounds of food waste into animal feed resulted in an approximate avoidance of 780,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent in 2023. This reduction is comparable to the greenhouse gas emissions produced by 185,641 gasoline-powered vehicles driven over the course of one year. Denali says its purpose is to convert organic wastes from various sources into valuable products.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 31, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets PCE Index data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Jobless Claims at 7:30 a.m. CDT Weekly Export Sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT EIA Biofuels and Feedstocks Update at 11 a.m. CDT Agricultural Price Indices update at 2 p.m. CDT Weather A low-pressure center is moving from Iowa into the Great Lakes for Thursday. East and south of the low, showers and thunderstorms will continue to spread. There is a much lower chance for severe weather, but areas of heavy rain will likely occur. Near the low, rain will change to snow from Minnesota into western Wisconsin where several inches will likely accumulate. Breezy winds are also found in portions of the Midwest Thursday.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 30, 2024 |

Officials Want Accountability from USDA Congressmen Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, Brad Finstad from Minnesota, and Randy Feenstra of Iowa wrote a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack regarding Pure Prairie Poultry’s shutdown. The Minnesota company closed its doors, leaving almost 50 farmers and over two million chickens in those three states with no feed or processing options. The members highlighted the lack of oversight and accountability by USDA and requested answers from the agency on their loan and grant process, as well as what they know about Pure Prairie Poultry’s bankruptcy filing. “The USDA will answer for the $45.5 million in loans and agricultural grants given to Pure Prairie Poultry, and the company will answer for what they did with that money before they stiffed our farmers,” Van Orden says. “I’m so thankful for how our farmers put the welfare of their flocks first and am proud to advocate for them on the House Agriculture Committee. *********************************************************************************** Farm Economy Steady to Weakening While the farm economy seems to have stabilized in the Midwest and Northern Plains, it weakened in the rest of the U.S. this fall. Producers are dealing with high costs and lower commodity prices. The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book says, “Agricultural activity was flat to down modestly, with some crop prices remaining unprofitably low.” Farmers in parts of the Sixth District of Atlanta are having a hard time. Farmers in South Georgia and parts of Florida noted significant damage and losses resulting from Hurricane Helene. Chicago’s Seventh District farmers had stable farm income expectations despite above-average harvest projections. The Eighth District of St. Louis notes that while agricultural production has been stable, overall sector conditions have weakened. Ninth District – Minneapolis conditions remained stable at lower levels. Kansas City’s Tenth District says activity in the ag sector continued to decline. Contacts in the Eleventh District around Dallas continued reporting tough financial conditions. *********************************************************************************** Forty Percent of Farmers Work Off the Farm The 2022 Census of Agriculture showed about 40 percent of American farmers worked 200 or more days off the farm in 2022. The majority, 93 percent, of the 3,078 U.S. counties for which data was reported had at least 30 percent of producers working 200 or more days off the farm. Further, 83 counties (2.7 percent) had at least 50 percent of producers working off-farm for 200 days or more. For farms with at least two producers, 41 percent of those worked off-farm for 200 days or more. In comparison, 35 percent of producers on farms with only one producer did so. Off-farm work is a significant source of income for most farm households and can additionally provide health and retirement benefits. Agricultural Resource Management Survey data says over half of family farms weren’t profitable in 2022, and 84 percent of farms earned at least half their income off the farm. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: SAF Policy Questions Remain Sustainable aviation fuel could emerge as the next big opportunity for substantial growth in U.S. biofuel production with proper market and regulatory incentives. Agricultural feedstocks could play a leading role in the supply chain for domestic SAF production. However, any meaningful growth opportunities will be largely dependent on favorable policies and adequate incentives for farmers and the wider biofuels industry. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange says the guidance on the 45Z tax credit will be a determining factor for the extent of agriculture’s role in SAF production. “Farmers are hopeful the new guidance will offer more flexibility than the 40B guidance did in setting on-farm conservation practices required to be eligible for the credit,” says Jacqui Fatka, an economist with CoBank. “Farmers want to be able to employ on-farm conservation practices that are applicable to their individual operations.” She also says biofuel producers won’t expand until the new guidance gets published. *********************************************************************************** Export Inspections Lower Across the Board The USDA says grain and soybean inspections were lower week to week during the seven days ending on October 24. Corn assessments were reported at 823,664 metric tons, down from one million tons from the previous week. The agency says that’s still above the 541,000 tons inspected during the same week a year ago. Wheat inspections totaled 248,534 tons, down from almost 269,000 assessed during the previous week. That’s still higher than the 198,000 tons examined at the same time last year. USDA says the examinations of soybeans for offshore delivery dropped to 2.39 million tons, down from 2.55 million a week earlier. That total is still up from the 2.05 million tons inspected last year. Since the beginning of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 6.62 million metric tons of corn - higher than the 4.98 million last year - 10.4 million tons of soybeans and 9.51 million tons of wheat. *********************************************************************************** Ag Research Technology Center Breaks Ground Advances in crop production and preservation are poised for a new location as the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service broke ground for a modernized facility. The new structure will consolidate all the labs that are currently located at the University of California-Davis. The Agricultural Research and Technology Center is a cutting-edge facility that will include customized laboratories, greenhouses, and capacity for scientists as part of the ARS’s ongoing efforts to mitigate climate change, water scarcity, emerging pests, and increasing global need in support of a resilient agricultural production system. The two-story, 59,000-square-foot facility will house four ARS research units. Collectively, the units will improve the health, sustainability, and profitability of agricultural production and natural resources in California and the western United States. The building will be a nexus for scientists to investigate plant diseases, plant genetic resources, soil health, and a number of other areas driven by long-term agricultural research.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 30, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets GDP at 7:30 a.m. CDT EIA Weekly Petroleum Status report including Ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. CDT Weather A front and system have moved into the middle of the country on Wednesday and will be a focal point for producing showers and thunderstorms. Some severe weather is expected across the eastern Plains into the southwestern Midwest. Breezy winds continue around the front as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 29, 2024 |

South American Expanding Soybean Production The U.S. soybean harvest will soon finish with expected record yields. South American farmers are already working on the 2024-2025 planting season, and Farmdoc (farm dock) Daily says Argentina may see its largest soybean acreage expansion in more than a decade. Brazil’s plantings are also expected to grow, albeit at their slowest pace in ten years. This surge in supply, driven by potential record production in both countries, could further depress international soybean prices in the months ahead. Brazil’s National Supply Company, Conab (KOH-nahb), says Brazil’s soybean acreage is projected to grow by 2.8 percent, reaching 117 million acres. This marks the slowest growth in ten years, driven by lower profit margins for farmers. If weather conditions are favorable, the 2024-2025 South American soybean crop is forecasted to reach 6.1 billion bushels, a 13 percent increase over the previous harvest. The Argentinian soybean crop is projected to hit 1.91 billion bushels. *********************************************************************************** Soy Growers Alarmed by EPA Action The American Soybean Association is expressing concern after the Environmental Protection Agency imposed additional restrictions on farmers in a move that seemed driven by environmental groups. A new registration for glufosinate-P was announced on October 18, but the EPA was slow in releasing the final label for that registration. The label is finally available, and with its public posting, additional unwarranted restrictions are evident. Alan Meadows, an ASA Director, says, “EPA seems to have relented to pressure from environmental groups and decided to impose additional Endangered Species Act restrictions on farmers.” In their comments, the groups claimed the number of runoff points and the size of the spray drift buffers currently required by the EPA were insufficient. “Somewhere between the draft and final registration, EPA, without explanation, tripled the number of ESA runoff points required and imposed a new 10-foot spray drift buffer that farmers must adopt to use glufosinate-P,” Meadows said. *********************************************************************************** RFA Applauds California Move on E15 The Renewable Fuels Association applauded California Governor Gavin Newsom for directing the state’s Air Resources Board to expedite the approval of E15 in the state. California is currently the only state that doesn’t allow the sales of lower-cost, low-carbon E15. In a letter to the California Air Resources Board, Newsome wrote, ”Given the potential for allowing E15 gasoline to increase the fuel supply and reduce gasoline prices with little to no environmental harm, it’s prudent for CARB to prioritize resources that would allow for the rapid completion of the process, and I am directing CARB to accelerate its action on this critical issue.” Newsom’s letter cited a recent study by economists from the University of California at Berkley and the United States Naval Academy that showed E15 could result in a twenty cents per gallon price decrease for the state’s drivers, saving California families up to $2.7 billion per year. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Down Slightly Despite the cattle inventory plummeting to the lowest level in 73 years, the number of cattle on feed remains surprisingly strong. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the U.S. for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.6 million on October 1, 2024. That number is slightly below the inventory on October 1, 2023. The inventory included 7.00 million steers and steer calves, up one percent from the previous year. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.6 million head, down one percent from 2023. Feedlot placements during September totaled 2.16 million head, two percent below last year. Net placements were 2.1 million head. Fed cattle marketings in September reached 1.7 million head, two percent below 2023. The average all-fresh retail price for beef hit record highs in six of the last seven months, while the cash price paid to farmers fell from July to September. *********************************************************************************** “Now, Next, Future” Checkoff Strategy at DMI Annual Meeting Dairy Management Inc. President and CEO Barbara O’Brien outlined “Now, Next, and Future” checkoff strategies to more than 800 dairy farmers and industry representatives at their recent annual meeting. The meeting included the United Dairy Association, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, and the National Milk Producers Federation and was held in Phoenix, Arizona. O’Brien shared that consumer retail dollar spending and volume sales for dairy are increasing, up three and two percent, respectively, year to date. All categories are experiencing volume growth compared to last year. “Make no mistake, we’re experiencing what I call a dairy renaissance,” O’Brien said. “You’ve seen the headlines and heard the discussions on social media, and it’s clear the narrative is shifting, and it’s our time.” She also noted the data indicates that the millennial generation (28-43 years old) is primarily behind the dollar and volume growth based on their newfound positive perceptions of dairy. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Culls More Than One Million Birds After the sudden closure of Pure Prairie Poultry left many farmers stuck with birds they couldn’t feed, Iowa has now culled approximately 1.3 million chickens after being unable to find a market for the birds. Iowa’s Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said it euthanized birds between October 17 and October 25 due to the unavailability of buyers, a lack of processing capacity, and the costs to feed and care for the birds. The state had taken custody of the birds when the Minnesota-based company shut its doors and closed its Iowa processing plant, laying off 138 workers. Iowa had an offer from Tyson Foods to buy the birds for processing when they reach market weight. However, that offer was pulled back at the last minute after creditors threatened to sue for part of Tyson’s profits. State officials received court permission to euthanize the birds on October 11.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 29, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Case-Shiller Home Price Index at 8am CT Consumer Confidence and Job Openings at 9am CT Livestock and Meat Domestic Data from ERS at 2pm CT Weather A storm system is moving into the Plains on Tuesday morning, which will be the first of several that will move through over the next 10 days or so. Scattered showers have already started in the Northern Plains, with more widespread showers and thunderstorms forecast to develop later Tuesday and Tuesday night across the Central and Southern Plains into the Upper Midwest. It may be cold enough for snow around Wyoming while winds increase in the country's midsection as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 28, 2024 |

Nearly Three-Quarters of Louisiana in Exceptional Drought Drought conditions are worsening in Louisiana, where cattle producers say some land has deep cracks that can break ankles and water troughs have been put out where they’ve never been needed before. Exceptional drought conditions continue to impact nearly three-quarters of the state of Louisiana. Cattle producers say some land has deep cracks that can break ankles and water troughs have been put out where they’ve never been needed before. Shannon Midkiff, a cow-calf producer in DeRidder, Louisiana, says the drought has impacted his operation “tremendously” this year. Midkiff says not only has his herd been affected, but he’s seeing the economic strain of the drought. He was only able to grow and harvest 25% of the hay that he normally produces to feed his herd through the winter months. As a result, Midkiff says he’s had to outsource hay and purchase grain mixes. *********************************************************************************** Corn Farmers Facing Worst Year Since 2007 Corn farmers could be in for their worst year in close to two decades, economists say, as the Federal Reserve reports that crop prices remain “unprofitably low” in its latest assessment of economic conditions. Last week’s Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book largely “confirmed things we were already thinking,” Michael Langemeir, a professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University, told Agriculture Dive, with dismal crop prices standing in stark contrast to the strong livestock sector. “This is one of the worst years” for corn and sorghum prices since the ethanol boom began in 2007, says Langemeier. High input costs following COVID-19 have created more of a difficult environment for row croppers, though the decline in crop prices has provided a boon to the livestock industry by lowering feed costs. *********************************************************************************** Pesticides Detected in California Air Samples; Environmentalists Alarmed California state regulators report that they have found detectable levels of pesticides floating in the air in multiple, large farming regions. Although state officials insist that none of the samples exceeded safe limits, environmentalists and anti-pesticide activists say the compounds pose a far greater risk than the state is willing to acknowledge. According to a new state report, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, or CDPR, collected weekly air samples last year in Oxnard, Santa Maria, Shafter and Watsonville, and found pesticides in nearly 80% of the samples. Environmental groups say the testing demonstrates that these chemicals are drifting into nearby communities and being inhaled by passersby. The compounds have been linked to a variety of health conditions, including respiratory illness, neurological issues and some types of cancers, they say. All detected pesticides were found below state-established health limits, meaning they are “unlikely to be harmful to human health,” according to the CDPR air monitoring report. ***************************************************************************************************** American Family Farms Going Broke Across the country, skyrocketing prices, wages and operating costs have shuttered hundreds of thousands of American farms. MSN reports in the past five years alone, over 140,000 American farms have tilled for the last time. Going back to 1950, 66% of all U.S. farms — 3.75 million farms in total — have stopped producing. The number of acres farmed has dropped by 323 million, which is roughly double the size of Texas. Agriculture experts worry as family farms across America gasp to stay afloat and go broke. “We have been losing family farmers at an alarming rate for 50 years now, and every time we go through these cycles like we are currently in, we lose more,” according to Scott Blubaugh, the president of American Farmers & Ranchers/Oklahoma Farmers Union. Agricultural economist Cesar Escalante said it’s the smaller farms that suffer because their backs are against the wall. *********************************************************************************** Riskiest States for Countryside Driving Wyoming has been identified as the most dangerous state for rural motoring, with a worrying 19.76 rural crash fatalities per 100,000 residents. This rate starkly contrasts with Massachusetts, which recorded the safest rate at just 0.43 fatalities per 100,000. These results are from a recent study conducted by Lucky Gambler and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the focus was placed on the dangers of driving on rural roads across the United States in 2022. Mississippi and Montana followed as the second and third most dangerous states, with rural crash fatality rates of 15.87 and 15.49 respectively. Farms dot com reports these figures highlight the heightened risk associated with driving in less urbanized areas. The study further lists South Dakota, South Carolina, and Arkansas among the top ten most perilous states for rural drivers, all exceeding 11 crash fatalities per 100,000 residents in rural settings. These statistics underscore the disproportionate number of fatalities occurring on rural versus urban roads in these regions. *********************************************************************************** Chiquita Ordered to Pay $38 Million in Wrongful Death Case A federal judge entered judgment against Chiquita Brands International, Inc. for $38.3 million, confirming a jury’s June 2024 verdict. The compensation is for the wrongful deaths of seven Colombian nationals, which a jury found were caused by Chiquita’s financial and material support to violent terrorist groups in Colombia. The six-week trial concluded with a unanimous verdict against the company. AgNet West reports U.S. District Judge Kenneth Marra had delayed the final judgment to consider Chiquita’s argument that Colombian law, which would limit compensation to $52,000 per claim, should apply. However, the court rejected Chiquita’s interpretation, ruling that even if such limits existed under Colombian law, they would not apply to a U.S. corporation. This landmark decision marks the first time a U.S. corporation has been held liable in an American court for human rights violations committed against foreign nationals outside U.S. borders.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 28, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Export Inspections at 10 am CT Crop Progress at 3 pm CT Weather A storm system is moving through the western states on Monday, bringing some showers there, but also is the start of a much more active pattern for the middle of the country. Warm temperatures are building while winds will start to pick up this afternoon in the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 25, 2024 |

Mississippi River System Levels Dropping For the third year in a row, the Mississippi River is experiencing low water levels during harvest season. In the spring and early summer, precipitation and water levels were quite robust. Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says once the calendar moved past mid-July, precipitation decline significantly, which caused a steady and dramatic decrease in water levels. There was a brief rise in water levels near Memphis after Hurricane Helene, but once the surge of water passed through the system, those water levels quickly returned to where they were earlier. “In certain areas of the river, we’re seeing several feet of draft reductions due to the low water,” Steenhoek says. “For each foot of draft reduction on the river, each barge carries 7,000 fewer bushels of soybeans, which is roughly 200 tons.” The draft is the distance between the waterline and the lowest part of the hull. *********************************************************************************** Trials for H5N1 Vaccine Beginning in South Dakota Medegene, a South Dakota based animal health company, has begun a field trial for their H5N1 vaccine in cattle. The trial began earlier this month at a contract research facility. The goal of the field trial is to demonstrate a reasonable expectation of efficacy and preliminary safety in animals specific to the company’s vaccine, data that would support a conditional license by the USDA. Dr Alan Young is co-founder and Chief Testing Officer for Medegene. “As unfortunate as the H5N1 spread is, this is exactly the kind of situation our technology was created to address,” Young says. “Our goal from the very beginning of this outbreak was to be ready for our cattle customers whenever the USDA gave us the green light.” The company’s H5N1 cattle vaccine study is expected to be complete in five weeks, with results then shared with the USDA. Medegene is based in Brookings, South Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Double Cover Crops by 2030 Farmers for Soil Health is a group that empowers farmers to lead the charge in sustainability. The group puts real money directly into their hands to drive change where it matters most: at the farm level. FFSH has an initiative program to offer an opportunity for farmers to make a meaningful impact on soil health while benefiting financially. In the program’s first year alone, 238 farmers enrolled over 78,000 acres, pushing the initiative closer to its goal of doubling cover crop adoption to 30 million acres across the U.S. by 2030. Participating farmers who plant cover crops get payments to help transition totaling $50 per new acre over cover crops planted over a span of three years. Farmers with existing cover crops can get a one-time payment of $2,000 per acre. Farmers in 20 states are eligible for enrollment in the cost-share programs. For more information go to farmersforsoilhealth.com. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Annual Meeting Spotlights H5N1 Vigilance U.S. dairy farmers are staying resilient in the face of H5N1 influenza outbreaks while advancing in policy areas like nutrition and milk pricing. Those remarks came from NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney at the organization’s annual meeting in Phoenix. The meeting was held jointly by NMPF, the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, and the United Dairy Industry Association. “With everything we do, the future is going to take a level of cooperation and coordination from all of us,” said Mooney, a Missouri dairy farmer. “We’ve had that, but it’s going to take more than we’ve ever had.” In the past year, dairy producers have grappled with HPAI and delays in a farm bill that expired in September even as milk prices have risen and consumer demand stayed strong. Underpinning the entire industry is USDA’s plan for Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization, which is likely to get voted on early next year. *********************************************************************************** Dietary Guideline Recommendations a Mixed Bag for Pork The National Pork Producers Council expressed concerns about the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s latest report. The group criticized the lack of a scientific basis for recommending plant proteins as a replacement for animal proteins. “While pork producers support the Committee’s recommendation to increase protein intake, their recommendation to replace animal proteins will severely compromise the America diet, as plant proteins aren’t nearly as nutritionally rich.” The Committee recommended moving beans, peas, and lentils from the vegetable group to the protein group. NPPC says this is deceiving to Americans as there are essential nutrients in animal proteins that plant proteins don’t provide. This also puts at risk infants, young children, adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women, and older adults, as they require higher amounts of protein and nutrients that are provided by animal-based proteins. NPPC will continue to engage with the Departments as a scientific voice for the U.S. pork industry. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Producers Climate-Smart Grant Producer Program Accepting Enrollments The American Lamb Board has received a USDA Climate-Smart Commodities Grant to measure the benefits of targeted sheep grazing on carbon sequestration, soil health, and related ecosystem services. This program allows up to 150 sheep producers to participate and expand climate-smart practices beyond the initial four plot sites. Among the program requirements, producers will work with Technical Assistance Providers to develop operational plans, implement climate-smart practices, and organize farm data to assess emissions. Producers can receive up to $7,000 to support their participation in climate-smart management and emissions reporting efforts. To qualify for the program payment, producers must meet several requirements, including establishing farm records with the USDA Farm Service Agency. “This Climate-Smart Grant offers a valuable opportunity for producers to adopt sustainable practices, enhance their farm’s long-term productivity, and receive financial support to offset costs,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. For more information or to sign up, go to lambboard.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 25, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Food Price Outlook at 8 am CT Consumer Sentiment at 9 am CT Cattle on Feed and Cold Storage at 2 pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders at 2:30 pm CT Weather A system is moving through the Midwest Friday morning with scattered showers. However, the system is weakening and showers will be more sporadic by the afternoon. Some cooler air is moving in behind the system, but only briefly.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 24, 2024 |

Fall Harvest Double Digits Ahead of Last Year’s Pace Reports show the U.S. corn and soybean harvests are double digits ahead of their five-year averages. Farm Policy News credits the fast pace to dry weather stretched across most of the U.S. through the past week. Corn harvest jumped 18 points nationally to 65 percent complete as of last Sunday, 13 percent over the five-year average. Soybean harvest slowed a little over the past week but still rose 14 percent to reach 81 percent completed as of last Sunday. Industry reports say the soybean harvest is moving along at its fastest pace in 14 years, and the corn harvest is moving at the fastest pace since 2021. The quick harvest pace and crop size is putting a strain on physical storage capacities for many grain handlers. As the dry weather continues accelerating the harvests, some grain handlers are forced to store their corn outside rather than in harvest bins. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Exporters Rushing to Get Shipments Sent Out Grain merchants are racing to ship out a record-large harvest ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Marine Link says fears of renewed trade tensions with China, the top soybean importer, are driving the push. USDA data released earlier this week says almost 2.5 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans were inspected for export the previous week, including almost 1.7 million tons headed to China, the largest amount in the last year. Prices are hovering near four-year lows, and if this heightened export demand doesn’t last, that may leave the U.S. with a glut of oilseeds. Tariff threats are causing some Chinese importers to not take U.S. shipments from January 2025 onward. Buyers are said to be looking to Brazil’s soy crop. They’re paying up to 40 cents a bushel more than they would in the U.S. in a quicker than expected seasonal shift that’s shrinking the U.S. export window. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Slams Dietary Guidelines Recommendations The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association slammed the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s unhinged recommendations that replace high-quality protein like beef with beans, peas, and lentils. “The preview of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee stands out as one of the most out-of-touch, impractical, and elitist conversations in the history of the process,” says NCBA VP of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “After 22 months of public discussion and lip service to transparency, we are disappointed by the number of chaotic new directions proposed at the literal last minute.” He also says NCBA laughs at the suggestion that beans, peas, and lentils are going to replace lean red meat and fill all the nutrient gaps Americans are facing, noting that it’s a dangerous and deceptive idea. “Beef contributes only five percent of the calories in the American diet but more than five percent of essential nutrients like potassium,” says NCBA Registered Dietitian Dr. Shalene McNeil. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Welcomes New Legislation on Clean Fuel Production The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition applauded the introduction of the Expanding Clean Fuel Production Act. SAF Coalition Executive Director Alison Graab says the legislation would extend the Section 45Z clean fuel production credit for ten years. Graab appreciates the effort to extend incentives for sustainable aviation fuel. “We look forward to advancing sustainable aviation fuel to demonstrate a clear commitment to the environmental and economic promises that SAF holds, and incentives that are durable and attract investment are essential to unlocking the potential and driving the progress needed to grow the SAF industry,” she says. Representative Brad Schneider of Illinois, a bill co-sponsor, says a ten-year extension would allow sustained investment in production to accelerate the transition to cleaner fuels and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation industry. “We’re already seeing the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act’s investments in U.S. production of sustainable fuels,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Down Two Percent, Milk Production Slightly Higher U.S. egg production totaled 8.92 billion during September 2024, down two percent from the same time last year. Production included 7.65 billion table eggs and 1.27 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.18 billion were broiler-type and 91.3 million were egg-type. The average number of layers in the U.S. during September totaled 375 million, down three percent from last year. September egg production per 100 layers was 2,381 eggs, up one percent from September 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on October 1, 2024, were at 377 million, two percent below last year. September milk production in the 24 highest-producing states reached 17.5 billion pounds in September, 0.2 percent higher than September 2023. Production per cow in the 24 states averaged 1,966 pounds for September, eight pounds higher than September 2023. The number of milk cows on farms in those 24 states totaled 8.89 million head, 200,000 less than in September 2023. *********************************************************************************** Pork Industry Scholarship Applications Open The National Pork Producers Council is accepting 2025 Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship applications. Ten $2,500 scholarships are awarded annually to college students who intend to pursue a career in the pork industry and aspire to become leaders in the industry. CME Group and the National Pork Industry Foundation sponsor the scholarships. “The strength of America’s pork industry lies in the hands of its future leaders,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President and Minnesota pork producer. The scholarship program honors NPPC’s former board director Lois Britt, a lifetime supporter of agriculture and member of the NPPC Pork Industry Hall of Fame. Any undergraduate student enrolled in a two-year swine program or four-year college of agriculture may apply. Applicants are evaluated by essay submissions that describe current or future issues confronting the pork industry with proposed solutions. For more information on the scholarships or to apply, go to nppc.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 24, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Grain Export Sales report at 7:30 am CT Initial Jobless Claims at 7:30 am CT S&P flash U.S. service and manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index at 8:45 am CT Livestock and Poultry Slaughter at 2 pm CT Weather A small system is exiting the Rockies into the Northern and Central Plains Thursday morning. While showers are rather unimpressive early Thursday morning, they should grow throughout the day, including some risk of thunderstorms across Minnesota down through northeast Kansas by the evening as the storm continues east overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 23, 2024 |

Many Economists Believe Ag is in a Recession Over half of the 70 ag economists surveyed in Farm Journal’s Monthly Survey of Ag Economists believe the U.S. agriculture economy is in a recession. Seventy-five percent of the other economists believe the ag economy is on the brink of a recession. The 75 percent of economists who believe the ag economy is on the brink of a recession is up from the 56 percent who responded that way in the previous month’s survey. Michael Langemeier of Purdue University is one of the economists who say it’s in a recession and says he defines the current recession as one of the worst we’ve seen in the last 20 years. “So my short answer to the question is yes,” Langemeier says. “Just looking at where the prices are currently at, this is the worst year we’ve seen since 2007.” Producer expectation levels have dropped back to those last seen in 2016. *********************************************************************************** USDA Begins Issuing Funds to Producers USDA will issue more than $2.14 billion in payments to eligible agricultural producers and landowners, providing much-needed support through conservation and farm safety-net programs. Producers should soon receive payments from the Farm Service Agency for their participation in these programs aimed at conserving natural resources and keeping family farms economically viable. Program participants are expected to receive more than $1.7 billion through the Conservation Reserve Program and CRP Transition Incentive Program. The agency will also send out more than $447 million through the ARC and PLC programs. Additionally, FSA will invest another $21 million for projects to better measure the effectiveness of CRP. “Conservation and safety net program payments are significant investments in preserving and protecting our valuable and vulnerable natural resources and they provide protection for producers impacted by market volatilities,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “These programs support voluntary land stewardship and producers with risk protection and stability.” *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Possible in Four Washington Farm Workers The Centers for Disease Control is sending a team to Washington state after reports surfaced of four workers who were thought to potentially have bird flu. They were culling poultry that were suffering from bird flu infection and are presumed to have caught the virus. If the infections are confirmed, Reuters says that would make Washington the sixth state to identify human cases this year. A spokesman says the CDC is sending the team to support the state’s assessment of the farm workers. The risk to the public from the outbreak in cattle remains low, but those with exposure to infected animals are at heightened risk. Washington’s health department says the workers’ use of protective gear was inconsistent as they were working at an infected egg farm hit by a strain from wild birds. Nationwide, 27 people had tested positive for the virus this year before the cases in Washington. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn, Soybean Inspections Jump A USDA report says inspections of corn and soybeans jumped week to week while wheat assessments declined during the week ending on October 17. Corn inspections rose to almost one million metric tons, up from 506,000 the prior week and 472,000 tons during the same week last year. Examinations of soybeans for overseas delivery also jumped to 2.43 million metric tons, up from 1.91 million tons the previous week. However, that total was lower than the 2.63 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat inspections dropped to 268,000 tons, down from 380,000 the week before but still notably higher than the 170,000 tons assessed at the same point in 2023. Since the marketing year began, USDA has inspected 5.79 million metric tons of corn, higher than in 2023 at the same time. Soybean inspections are at 7.9 million metric tons, down from 8.1 million in 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Boost Wildlife Protection The USDA will boost wildlife habitat protection as the Biden administration enters its final months. In a department memo issued Monday, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack directed agencies to coordinate more closely on protecting lands across different types of ownership, including making wildlife habitat a high priority in various conservation programs. In the memorandum, Vilsack said many animals rely on vast swaths of connected habitat that can be broken by development or disrupted by disease outbreaks, among many other factors. Agency officials told reporters during a conference call that protecting those landscapes can coincide with agricultural production such as ranching, and he says it involves an array of USDA initiatives like the Conservation Reserve Program. The agency’s goal is to improve terrestrial wildlife habitat connectivity and corridors in a way that recognizes and leverages state and Tribal authorities, capitalizes on public land management, and respects property rights through voluntary conservation efforts. *********************************************************************************** High-Quality Wheat Detailed in Crop Report As a key part of its commitment to transparency and service, U.S. Wheat Associates has produced the 2024 U.S. Crop Quality Report that includes grade, flour, dough, and baking data for five of the six U.S. wheat classes. This report provides essential and objective information to help buyers get the wheat they need at the best possible value. The 2024 Crop Quality Report is now available for download. “After the past few challenging years, my colleagues and the farmers we represent are glad to say that there is good production and quality news about U.S. Wheat Supplies,” says USW President Vince Peterson. “The 2024 report shows the larger new crop offers our customers the milling and baking qualities needed to produce the highest quality wheat foods, and greater opportunity to thrive in the coming year.” USW will also share quality information in person through Crop Quality Seminars in other countries.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 23, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Existing Home Sales at 9 am CT EIA's Weekly Petroleum Status w/ Ethanol production at 9:30 am CT Broiler Hatchery at 2 pm CT Weather A dry front sagging through the northern half of the country is bringing in a sharp drop in temperatures, though most areas are still near or even above normal for late October. Meanwhile, heat continues in the south and will rebound in the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 22, 2024 |

Biofuel Groups Welcome Supreme Court Decision on SREs The Renewable Fuels Association and Growth Energy were pleased with a Supreme Court decision on Small Refinery Exemptions. They issued a joint statement saying the Fifth Circuit Court wasn’t the right venue to hear challenges on small refinery exemptions. “Because the Fifth Circuit opinion set up a clear split with several other courts on the venue question, this is precisely the sort of issue that the Supreme Court is meant to resolve,” the statement says. “The court has agreed, and we look forward to participating in the case and settling the issue for good.” The groups also say the refining community’s abuse of small refinery exemptions destroys demand for biofuels nationwide, which negatively impacts farmers and bioethanol producers regardless of where they operate. “The economic and environmental impact of this abuse does not recognize state lines,” the groups add. “The decision in this case should give producers some much-needed certainty.” *********************************************************************************** AFT Collaborates with Real Farmer Care American Farmland Trust will collaborate with Real Farmer Care as the fiscal sponsor to support and advance farmer and rancher self-care and well-being. The Real Farmer Care’s founding mission is to support farmers’ self-care needs and allocate donated funds directly to farmers and ranchers as $100 self-care awards. Self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting and improving one’s well-being and happiness, particularly during stressful times. Self-care activities can be inexpensive but rarely get prioritized. “As rigors in responsibilities and challenges continue for farmers, it's critical that now more than ever they have the resources at hand to improve their well-being,” says AFT President and CEO John Piotti (pee-AHT-tee). “AFT could not be any more grateful to Real Farmer Care in this alliance to promote healthy farmer and rancher mental health.” For more information, go to Real Farmer Care or American Farmland Trust. *********************************************************************************** Organic Growers Summit 2024 in December The Organic Growers Summit is set for December 4-5, 2024. The show is put on by Farm Progress and features a lineup of expert-led seminars, industry-leading speakers, and a special keynote panel. Attendees will get insight into the evolving organic market, including education on ag technology, soil health, innovations, and government regulations. The event’s keynote panel will provide insights into the future of organic farming. Matt Jungmann of Farm Progress says this year’s revamped schedule gives Organic Grower Summit attendees a unique chance to connect with industry experts in the field and on the retail side, explore innovations, and learn how to make their operations more efficient and profitable. To view the seminars and to register, go to the show’s official website at organicgrowersummit.com. Other presentations include a whole-systems approach to managing pests and weeds and answering the question of whether Ag tech will make organic more profitable. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook The USDA’s beef production outlook is noticeably higher from September. Third- and fourth-quarter 2024 production is forecast to be higher than last month, raising the annual forecast to 27 billion pounds, just above 2023 production. U.S. dairy milk production is expected to decline in 2024 due to lower yields from aging cows, adverse weather, and limited replacements. Imports are expected to increase while exports remain mostly stable. Projected broiler production is adjusted down slightly in 2024 on recent slaughter data but revised upward in 2025 on favorable hatchery indicators and feed prices. Projected broiler exports were adjusted down in 2024 and 2025 on recent data and strong global competition. Wholesale broiler price expectations are higher based on recent price data and strong demand expectations. Projected turkey exports in 2024 were also adjusted down slightly. Projected turkey prices were adjusted down for the fourth quarter of 2024 and in 2025 based on weaker demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Funds for Food and Nutrition Security The USDA announced an investment of more than $46 million in projects aimed at tackling food and nutrition insecurity in underserved communities. The funds also support healthy diets by providing more access to fruits and vegetables for eligible families. “Healthy, safe, and affordable food is essential for a strong start for children and a healthy life for all of us,” says USDA Deputy Ag Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “With these funds, we’re investing in healthy food options for people no matter where they live and supporting stronger local and regional food systems.” Funding for 20 projects under the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program brings together stakeholders from distinct parts of the food system and fosters an understanding of national food security trends and how they might work together to improve local food systems. This investment is expected to help catalyze small production agriculture and increase food access for low-income Americans. *********************************************************************************** Grocery Store Shopping is Changing In 2022, the USDA’s Economic Research Service Eating and Health Module captured the first nationally representative data about how many U.S. residents grocery shop online. The data featured in the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey revealed that about one in five shoppers purchased groceries online at least once in the 30 days prior to the survey. ERS researchers performed an analysis to look at the differences in the likelihood of online grocery shopping within the past month among a wide variety of personal characteristics. The largest disparity among any of these characteristics was the difference in an individual’s education level, from nine percent for those with less than a high school diploma to 26 percent of those with more than a bachelor’s degree. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher were 17 percentage points more likely to buy groceries online.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 22, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. Cotton Ginnings at 11 am CT Weather A small upper-level low that produced some streaks of heavier rain in the Central Plains on Monday is falling apart as it moves into the Midwest, but there will still be a few showers Tuesday. A stronger front is moving through the Northern Plains and will cruise through the Upper Midwest as well, bringing down temperatures significantly from Monday and offering some limited showers of its own. Otherwise, very warm and dry conditions continue for most of the country.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 21, 2024 |

Drought Conditions Persist in Wisconsin The majority of Wisconsin is experiencing abnormally dry to severe drought conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. When I looked at the weather maps for the next two weeks, I was struck by how dry it’s supposed to be, according to Wisconsin State Climatologist Steve Vavrus. Even with the strong cold front over the weekend, which often brings rainfall when you have that big of a temperature change, it still looks like a pretty dry one. While dry, warm weather has been beneficial for harvest progress, Vavrus thinks conditions could become too much of a good thing. If we don’t get rain pretty soon, we’re going to start being a little concerned about soil moisture going into next year’s growing season. Once you get into late fall and winter, whatever the soil moisture is in place at that point locks in and that’s what you’re stuck with come spring next year. ************************************************************************************* Distressed Agricultural Borrowers Get $250 Million in USDA Assistance The Department of Agriculture announced an additional $250 million in automatic payments for distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers under Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act. With the assistance more than 4,600 producers across the country will see another production season, said Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency administrator. Some 4,650 financially distressed farmers who owe money on USDA direct and guaranteed loans will share $250 million in payments from the government. USDA said it has provided roughly $2.4 billion in assistance, including that announced last week, to 43,900 distressed borrowers with funding from the 2022 climate, healthcare, and tax law. The new round of money will go to borrowers who did not receive assistance previously. It would be split into $235 million for delinquent loans and $15 million for borrowers with shared appreciation agreements on their guaranteed loans. ************************************************************************************* AFT Distributes Over $700,000 to Farmers Nationwide American Farmland Trust announced the disbursement of over $700,000 to 139 farmers across the United States through this year’s Brighter Future Fund. Over 50% of those awarded identified as beginning farmers, with 30% being under 34 years of age. And over 60% of those awarded identified as women. Grants were awarded to help these farmers invest in professional services, vital equipment and infrastructure with a special emphasis on improving farm viability, accessing farmland, and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. Over half of those awarded have projects focused on projects focused on improving the overall viability of their farms. Additional grants were made available this year to farmers and ranchers affected by the historic Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle. The funds will allow farmers to rebuild and replace infrastructure, equipment, cattle, and more that were destroyed in the early 2024 wildfires. ************************************************************************************* Self-Driving Tractors May Help Fill Agriculture’s Labor Shortage A farm in Sonoma County, California had 27 tractor driver positions open and posted the positions on various job boards. The farm didn’t get a single applicant for weeks. A few weeks later, the owners onboarded an autonomous tractor system for the farm and updated the job listing to say they were looking for an agtech operator position. In the preferred qualifications they listed “video game experience.” The applications came rolling in. “You’ve opened up a whole new workforce for agriculture,” Tim Bucher, CEO of the ag startup Agtonomy, said. “One that’s never driven a tractor before.” Tractor giant Deere and software startup Agtonomy have emerged as some of the major players driving the autonomous revolution. While the two companies are focused on different sectors in agriculture, their end goals are the same: Helping farmers make more money by making smarter decisions about their operations. There’s obviously struggles with labor shortages around the country, and so people are always looking at ways to how they can get more done in the shortest amount of time, said John Deere’s Micheal Porter, ************************************************************************************* ARS Studying Precision AG Applications in Arid Regions One of the main challenges of irrigating crops is that available water sources contain salt. Over time, repeated waterings from these sources lead to salt accumulation, damaging soil fertility. This issue is especially acute in the arid and semi-arid regions found in much of the western United States. To address the issue, the Agricultural REsearch Service’s Agricultural Water Efficiency and Salinity (AWES) Research Unit in Riverside, California are using remote sensing and precision technology to aid growers in arid regions. They are beginning to apply the techniques of digital and precision agriculture to help growers provide their crops with the water they need without harming them, or the soil, in the process. One approach is to develop crops with a higher salt tolerance, including working to understand that trait at a genetic level. Researchers have also leveraged remote sensing data from satellites to inform their picture of salinity levels in fields. They have used remote sensing data from satellites to inform their picture of salinity levels in fields. ************************************************************************************* Ag Industry Groups File Suit in Challenge of H-2A Rule The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) and nine co-plaintiffs filed a lawsuit contesting the U.S. Department of Labor’s regulatory overreach and limitations on the freedom of speech of farmers who employ temporary workers. “DOL is exacerbating an already enormously challenging labor crisis for growers and agriculture employers across the country. This lawsuit challenges the unauthorized process through which DOL passed this rule and the unlawful and unconstitutional impacts it has on American agriculture employers,” says IFPA CEO Cathy Burns The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of Mississippi with representation, requests a permanent injunction of DOL’s Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States. In August, the court in Kansas v. U.S. Department of Labor – a similar case in the 11th Circuit brought by 17 state attorneys general, the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, and Miles Berry Farm – found the rule unconstitutional and enjoined DOL from enforcing it within the 17 states.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 21, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA Food Expenditure data at 8 am CT Grain export inspections at 10 am CT U.S. Leading Economic Indicators at 11 am CT Crop Progress at 3 pm CT Weather An upper-level low is moving through the Plains Monday morning bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some pockets of good rain will fall, but most areas will see insufficient amounts. A front will be moving into the Northern Plains with some areas of showers there through Monday night as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 18, 2024 |

U.S. Loss Would Be South America’s Gain A new economic study paints a troubling picture of the potential results a new U.S.-China trade war could have on hundreds of thousands of rural communities. It shows that American-imposed tariffs would come at a steep cost to American farmers and ranchers while benefiting Brazil and Argentina. The study was commissioned by the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association and showed an immediate drop in corn and soy exports to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. Brazil and Argentina would immediately step in to claim the lost market share. “The study highlights the dangers that come with broad tariffs on imports,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “While launching tariffs may seem like an effective tool, they will boomerang and cause unintended consequences.” ASA Chief Economist Scott Gerit says the study shows a significant trade war would easily compound the challenges placing stress on America’s producers. *********************************************************************************** AgriSafe Network Steps Up Support for Hurricane-Hit Communities Hurricanes Helene and Milton had devastating impacts on the southeastern United States. Communities in many states are facing unprecedented challenges. Many areas were left in ruins, including severed communication lines and local support systems struggling to respond to the crisis. In recognition of the critical need for mental health support during these challenges, AgriSafe is offering FarmResponse® training seats at no cost to those providing counseling services to ag communities affected by the hurricane. This training will assist in providing the best possible care to the state’s agricultural communities impacted by disasters. It’s vital to not skip mental health while trying to make a physical recovery. AgriSafe’s FarmResponse program equips health professionals to foster resilience and instill hope in agricultural communities that are in desperate need of both. For more information and to access open seats, go to agrisafe.org. FarmResponse is listed in the Suicide Prevention Resources Best Practices Registry. *********************************************************************************** AEM Tour Concludes in Wisconsin The AEM Manufacturing Express concluded its cross-country tour when it returned home to Wisconsin for final stops. The tour launched on July 1 and traveled across 22 states, celebrating the 2.3 million men and women of the U.S. equipment manufacturing industry and highlighting their roles in building, powering, and feeding the world. The tour, launched by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, stopped at 80 equipment manufacturers across the Midwest, Southeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions. “The AEM Manufacturing Express has been a unique platform to celebrate the grit and determination of the men and women in the equipment manufacturing industry,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. Throughout the tour, AEM showcased the cutting-edge technology and innovations that drive the industry. Each stop featured an interactive experience called the “Manufacturing Challenge” that gave people the chance to test their knowledge. Participating manufacturers included companies like AGCO, CNH Industrial, Deere and Company, Kubota, and many others. *********************************************************************************** Gevo Receives $1.5 Billion for SAF Plant in South Dakota Gevo (JEE-voh) Inc., a developer of net-zero hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals, received a conditional commitment for a loan guarantee with disbursements totaling $1.46 billion from the Department of Energy. The funds will be used for a Net-Zero 1 project in Lake Preston, South Dakota. The facility will use 100 percent U.S.-sourced feedstocks and is designed to produce approximately 60 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel, about 1.3 billion pounds of protein and animal feed products, and approximately 30 million pounds of corn oil per year. “This marks a watershed moment for the Net-Zero 1 project and a critical step forward in our mission to transform the aviation industry by providing a sustainable and economical renewable carbon-based jet fuel,” says Gevo CEO Patrick Gruber. A recent report shows the facility will create over 100 direct jobs and hundreds of local indirect jobs, with an economic impact of more than $100 million. *********************************************************************************** Connecting More Rural Americans to High-Speed Internet USDA’s Undersecretary of Rural Development, Dr. Basil Gooden, announced nearly $173 million in funding to connect rural residents, farmers, and business owners in the Dakotas and eight other states to high-speed internet. “Keeping the people of rural America connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs,” Gooden says. “Thanks to the ReConnect Program, we are connecting the most rural and remote communities in our country to a global marketplace.” He also says the funding will drive economic security and rural prosperity for generations to come. The ReConnect Program is designed specifically to fund the most difficult high-speed internet projects in the nation in the most rural, remote, and unserved communities. The USDA has invested more than $4 billion in 345 ReConnect Projects that will help bring high-speed, reliable internet access to more than 600,000 people throughout rural America. *********************************************************************************** Turkey Production Down From 2023 The USDA says turkey eggs in incubators in the United States as of October 1, 2024, were down nine percent from October 1 of last year. Eggs in incubators were down two percent from the September 1, 2024, total of 25 million eggs. Turkey poults hatched during September 2024 in the U.S. totaled 20.4 million, down five percent from September 2023. Poults hatched were down one percent from the August 2024 total of 20.7 million poults. The 18.2 million net poults placed in September 2024 in the United States were down five percent from the number placed during the same month a year earlier. Net poult placements were down ten percent from the August 2024 total of 20.1 million. As far as feed options in the future, a 2024-2025 USDA Feed Outlook is for reduced supplies despite an increase in output. Sorghum supplies were raised but offset by lower corn carry-in.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 18, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Weekly export sales out at 7:30 am CT Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Outlook out at 2 pm CT CFTC Commitment of Traders report out at 2:30 pm CT Weather Warm air continues to spread eastward through the country on Friday. A front has moved into the Plains and will produce some areas of showers as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 17, 2024 |

USDA Makes Indemnity Payments After Hurricane Helene Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced additional assistance to help producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in their recovery process. USDA is announcing that counties that have triggered for payment under the Hurricane Insurance Protection Wind Index (HIP-WI) endorsement for Hurricane Helene. As a result, Approved Insurance Providers have 30 days to issue payments to producers, but those providers typically issue payments much sooner. “Several states across the southeast experienced devastating damages from Hurricane Helene, which caused significant destruction right before the harvest season,” Vilsack says. “USDA will support farmers through the recovery process for the long haul, and that includes today’s step of making innovative types of coverage available and getting funds into the hands of producers quickly.” Georgia’s indemnity payments top the list at a combined $207.7 million. A full list of the Farm Service Agency disaster assistance programs is available on the Hurricane Helene webpage at farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** Baldwin Wants Help for Wisconsin Poultry Growers Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) called on the USDA to provide immediate assistance for Wisconsin farmers who were impacted by the sudden closure of Pure Prairie Poultry. The shutdown left the state’s poultry producers staring at crippling financial losses without feed and a processor for the birds. “Hard-working Wisconsin farmers have been left high and dry by the abrupt closure of Pure Prairie Poultry,” says Senator Baldwin. “Our agriculture industry is the beating heart of many of our communities, and, in the face of this dire situation, I’m calling on USDA to do everything they can for these Wisconsin farmers who face financial ruin through no fault of their own.” She also raised concerns for the animal’s well-being and the potential for this closure to exasperate the avian flu outbreak as farmers are resorting to giving away chickens by the tens of thousands. Pure Prairie Poultry filed for bankruptcy in September. *********************************************************************************** Protect the Harvest Shutting Down Protect the Harvest will cease operating on October 31, 2024, citing funding challenges that began during COVID. The organization was created in 2011 as a non-profit educational and advocacy effort to promote and defend American farmers and ranchers, improve food security, protect property rights, ensure animal welfare, and support outdoor sports. Protect the Harvest has kept many people safe from a myriad of threats. “The current economy has made it challenging for many individuals and organizations that have supported us in the past,” says Mike Siemens, Protect the Harvest Executive Director. “It’s been frustrating and disappointing to see the number of issues we confront multiply while our resources to address them have been diminished.” He also says it’s even more heartbreaking because they still hear from many stakeholders about how much they value Protect the Harvest and the work they do. “Other organizations will have to fill in,” he said. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Announced Leadership Class VII The United Sorghum Checkoff Program released the names of the Leadership Sorghum Class VII. This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and advocates for the sorghum industry. “The strength of the sorghum industry depends on developing leaders who can advocate for the future,” says Kendall Hodgson, USCP Chairman. “With a growing demand and evolving challenges in agriculture, Leadership Sorghum plays a vital role in preparing producers to represent and promote our industry with knowledge and confidence.” Seventeen farmers have been selected from states like Alabama, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and others. “Leadership Sorghum is instrumental in shaping the future of our industry by equipping producers with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and advocate at every level,” says Shelee Padgett, Leadership Sorghum Program Director. “The leaders we develop are vital to continue the future success of the entire sorghum industry.” For more information, go to leadsorghum.com. *********************************************************************************** New Oat Ready for Battle Against Crown Rust A team of Agricultural Research Service and university scientists released two new oat germplasm lines to shore up the crop’s defenses against the devastating fungal disease called crown rust. The team specifically created the oat lines so that they could be crossed with elite commercial varieties to fortify them with new genetic sources of resistance to crown rust. The disease can be a plague upon oats worldwide and inflict grain losses of up to 50 percent in unprotected crops. The crown rust fungus is a genetically diverse pathogen and highly adept at evolving into new virulent forms called races. This can happen so quickly that the average productive life of an oat variety with seedling resistance is between three and five years, necessitating the use of chemical fungicides in conventional production systems. The sturdy oat lines have been propagated for their seed, which is available for a variety of development programs. *********************************************************************************** Investments will Strengthen School Meals Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized USDA’s commitment to connecting local farmers and producers with schools nationwide that serve meals to about 30 million children every school day. Vilsack, joining others across the country in celebrating National School Lunch Week and National Farm to School Month, pointed to the Department’s recent investment of $500 million for schools to purchase unprocessed foods as the latest in a series of actions to support school meals through nutritious, domestic foods. “A healthier future for our country starts with our children, and American farmers and producers play a critical role in ensuring kids have healthy, tasty food with homegrown flavor to nourish them through the school day,” Vilsack says. “We know the school meals supply chain is the strongest when schools have relationships with local suppliers, which is why USDA will continue to support local foods in schools for a brighter future for our children.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 16, 2024 |

New Analysis of Tariff-Induced Trade War Impacts Farmers for Free Trade, the national trade advocacy coalition including America’s largest ag and food associations released a reaction to new trade analysis from the National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association. The analysis evaluates the impacts of a trade war on soybeans and corn, two of America’s leading ag exports. Bob Hemesath (HE-meh-sath) is the Board President for Farmers for Free Trade and says the analysis shows that American corn and soybean farmers would be devastated by the re-emergence of a trade war. “The very real possibility that tariffs rise sharply would mean corn exports to China drop by well over 80 percent and soy exports would drop by half,” Hemesath says. “The analysis also shows that a trade war would reduce U.S. soybean and corn prices, which would harm rural economies across the country.” He also says a trade war would be a gift to international competitors. *********************************************************************************** USDA Recruiting Exports for Trade Mission to Thailand The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will host its first-ever trade mission to Bangkok, Thailand, February 3-6, 2025. Current and potential exporters interested in participating should apply for consideration by October 29. “The mission represents an opportunity for our farmers, ranchers, producers, and agribusinesses to connect with potential trade partners from both Thailand and Burma,” says Daniel Whitley, administrator of the FAS. “Consumers in these markets are ready to stock their pantries with world-class, high-quality food and farm products offered by U.S. exporters that join the trip in February.” The U.S. was the fifth-largest supplier of agricultural products to Thailand in 2023, with $1.2 billion in exports. The top U.S. exports were bulk commodities used for feed and food manufacturing, but there are strong opportunities for consumer-oriented products as well. Thailand boasts the fourth-highest per capita income in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. For information or to apply, go to fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Mississippi River Falls During Record Harvest Season Farm Policy News says that as the fall harvest of record corn and soybean crops is in full swing, Mississippi River conditions continue to get worse. It’s stalling barges trying to move up and down the channel, especially in the Lower Mississippi River. That means barge drafts and tow sizes have been cut. A draft is the distance between the waterline and the deepest points of the boat, which typically is 12 feet at 1,500 tons. On the Illinois River, barges are loaded to about a nine-foot draft at 900 tons. Each reduction in the draft means a barge’s cargo is cut by 200 tons. That will cost shippers more money as they’re paying for the same amount of money but shipping less freight than normal. More barges will be needed to pick up the slack. These costs typically get passed on to the farmers who haul grain to river terminals. *********************************************************************************** Ag Productivity Growth Falling Short of Meeting Global Demands A Virginia Tech study shows a dramatic slowdown in agricultural productivity that threatens the world’s ability to feed a growing global population and manage environmental challenges. That’s according to the 2024 Global Agricultural Productivity (GAP) Report. The report says that while research, development, and high-tech farming tools are being developed at a steady pace, a substantial “valley of death” separates the development of new innovations from the people who need to adopt them. Agricultural total factor productivity growth is critical for ensuring that agriculture can meet the growing global demand for products by 2050. “Global agricultural productivity growth has slowed from 1.9 percent annually during 2001-2010 to 0.7 percent annually during 2013-2022,” says Tom Thompson, the report’s executive editor. “This dramatic slowdown will prevent us from reaching our agricultural production and sustainability goals by 2050, with potentially dire impacts on food and nutrition security unless we reverse this trend.” *********************************************************************************** AVMA Anticipates No Dire Shortage of Veterinarians A recent analysis of the drivers of supply and demand for veterinary services shows that the number of graduates from existing veterinary colleges is likely enough to meet demand through 2035. The conclusion comes after a study commissioned by the American Veterinary Medicine Association. The projections in this analysis do not justify a conclusion of overall excess capacity or a capacity shortage by 2035. Meantime, the population of veterinarians is likely to grow faster than pet-owning households if all 13 proposed veterinary schools become accredited. With 33 colleges already recognized by the AVMA Council on Education, this would represent almost a 40 percent increase in the next ten years. Vet visits are declining from a peak achieved in 2021 and 2022. Data shows prices for those veterinary services have been increasing as well. The Veterinary Industry Tracker says that’s caused a slowdown in the volume of vet services. *********************************************************************************** AccuWeather: Another Mild Winter Ahead for Parts of the U.S. On the heels of one of the warmest summers on record, AccuWeather long-range experts are forecasting a mild winter with above-average temperatures in three dozen states. The U.S. recently had its warmest winter season on record last December through February, and much of the country will see mild temps again. “We will likely have a weak La Niña for most of this winter,” says Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok. “We expect the storm track to dive south into California this winter, which can result in periods of mild air moving across the Central and Eastern U.S. at times.” However, with a weak signal of La Niña, some cold can push into the Midwest and Northeast. Based on data from previous winters with a similar setup, Pastelok says February is the likely month for the polar vortex to usher in a blast of bitterly cold air across the eastern U.S.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 16, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Imports and Exports and Import Price Index out at 7:30 am CT EIA weekly petroleum status report, including ethanol production and stocks at 9:30 am CT ERS Oil Crops Outlook at 11 am CT ERS Feed, Wheat, Rice Outlook at 2pm CT Weather Cold temperatures continue east of the Rockies early Wednesday, with frosts that have gotten as far south as Oklahoma and just south of the Tennessee border Wednesday morning. Warmer temperatures will spread into the Plains late in the day, however. And with increasing winds, it should become more dangerous for wildfires for the rest of the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 15, 2024 |

Poultry Company Abandons Producers Pure Prairie Poultry declared bankruptcy and shut down with little notice, affecting workers at a processing plant in Iowa and contract growers in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Farmers Union says this has left farmers in dire straits, with thousands of birds to feed and no feed or compensation coming. The growers are reporting that they will have to euthanize tens of thousands of birds because it’s too expensive to feed that many out of their own pockets. Reports say Pure Prairie Poultry received $45 million in taxpayer subsidies in 2022. Chickens in some of the company’s Wisconsin sheds haven’t been fed for more than a week and have resorted to cannibalism to survive. No feed or relief from their suffering is in sight as Pure Prairie Poultry is no longer feeding the birds and refusing to respond to any inquiries from its contracted farmers about the situation. *********************************************************************************** Combine and Tractor Sales Fall in September U.S. sales of ag tractors dropped by 19 percent in September of this year compared to September 2023. New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says combine sales also fell during the month, dropping 41 percent compared to last year. The 100-plus horsepower tractor segment fell the most from last year, dropping almost 27 percent in September of 2024 compared to last year. Four-wheel-drive tractors were the segment’s only gain, selling 1.7 percent more year-to-date from January through September 2024. “September’s ag tractor and combine sales follow a summer that showed a cyclical slowdown in sales,” says AEM senior vice president Curt Blades. “These declines point to the overall softness in the ag economy.” Sales of ag tractors in Canada also dropped in September 2024, finishing the month 25 percent behind the total sales in September 2023. Combine sales in Canada fell 52 percent compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Governor Issues Order to Protect Livestock from Wildfires Just weeks after wildfires burned through almost half a million acres in Wyoming and Montana, more devastating wildfires are popping up around the Cowboy State. As communities tried to pick up the pieces after the devastation, Wyoming received a USDA Disaster Declaration to help assist in agriculture’s recovery from wildfire damage. State Governor Mark Gordon issued an emergency transport order to protect livestock and the ag industry in the fire’s area. Ignited by a lightning strike in late September, the Elk Fire is breaking records as the largest wildfire to tear through the Big Horn National Forest in 100 years of recorded history. According to the Fire, Weather, and Avalanche Center, as of October 9, the Elk Fire had scorched 75,969 acres with only 16 percent containment. Reports say as many as 889 personnel are working to put out the large fire. Unusually dry weather conditions have not improved the situation. *********************************************************************************** 4-H Updates its Strategy to Better Prepare Youth The national 4-H program launched Beyond Ready, a nationwide initiative designed to empower ten million young people with the skills, resilience, and confidence they need to thrive in a changing world. While schools play a critical role in education, 4-H says they can’t do it alone. As the largest youth development organization in the country, 4-H is equipped to bridge the gap between school and the working world. Employers are increasingly focusing on skills extending beyond traditional subjects, with 77 percent stating the need for analytical thinking, creativity, resilience, and adaptability. To meet their goals, 4-H outlined multiple key initiatives to drive the Beyond Ready Campaign, including partnerships with land-grant universities to provide more college credit and credentialing programs. 4-H will also invest in educators by expanding Positive Youth Development training opportunities, as well as mobilizing the 4-H network to accelerate impact by leveraging key partnerships with government agencies and universities. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Corn Production Up While Soybean Production Drops Friday’s USDA Crop Production Report showed corn production is forecast at 15.2 billion bushels, up less than one percent from the previous forecast, but down one percent from last year. Soybean growers are expected to increase their production by ten percent from 2023, with the forecast at 4.58 billion bushels. Based on conditions as of October 1, corn yields are expected to average 183.8 bushels per harvested acre, up 0.2 bushels from the previous forecast and 6.5 bushels higher than last year. Soybean yields are predicted to average 53.1 bushels an acre, down fractionally from the previous forecast but up 2.5 bushels from 2023. The report also included a production forecast for U.S. cotton. The all-cotton production is forecast at 14.2 million 480-pound bales, down two percent from the previous forecast, but up 18 percent from 2023. Yields are expected to average 789 pounds per harvested acre, 18 pounds below September. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases October WASDE The October World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report says the 2024-2025 corn outlook is for smaller supplies, larger exports, and reduced ending stocks. With supply falling and use rising, ending stocks are cut 58 million bushels to two billion. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.10 a bushel. U.S. soybean production is forecast at 134.4 million tons, down 0.3 million from last month. With lower soybean production partly offset by slightly higher beginning stocks, supplies are lowered by 2 million bushels to 4.9 billion. The season-average soybean price is unchanged at $10.80 a bushel. The outlook for U.S. wheat calls for reduced supplies, larger domestic use, unchanged exports, and lower ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are lowered by 16 million bushels to 812 million, still up 17 percent from the previous year. The season-average farm price for wheat is unchanged at $5.70 a bushel.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 15, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Empire State Manufacturing survey out at 7:30 am CDT, FAS Grain Export Inspections report out at 10 am, USDA Feed Grains Database update out at 11 am, ERS Wheat Data update out at 2pm, and USDA Crop Progress report out at 3 pm. Weather Cold air continues to flood the country east of the Rockies Tuesday, bringing some more widespread frosts in the morning from Kansas to Pennsylvania and points northward. The cold air continues to produce some lake-effect rain showers in the Great Lakes as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 14, 2024 |

Agricultural Leader Harley Janssen Joins NCGA Harley Janssen, a farmer and leader with more than 20 years of experience in agriculture, construction and off-road technology, has joined the National Corn Growers Association. He will serve as the Director of Outputs and Measurements, a newly created position at the organization. The high caliber experience Janssen brings will help NCGA take its sustainability work to new heights. In his role, Janssen will translate and interpret production and sustainability data and help growers access new sustainability markets. He will play a crucial role as NCGA helps farmers access tax credits that will allow them to sell into the aviation sector. Janssen said that NCGA wants to make certain that existing private and public sustainability programs are as inclusive as possible when it comes to how they work with and assist corn growers. ************************************************************************************* Scientists Examining Corporate Influence over Food and Farm Bill The Union of Concerned Scientists recently released a report analyzing the influence of lobbying on food and agriculture systems. The report finds that agribusinesses, industry associations, and other interest groups have spent more than US$500 million to influence legislation, including the Farm Bill, between 2019 and 2023. The Farm Bill is an omnibus bill that covers issues across food and agriculture systems including financial credit for farmers, resource conservation and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is renewed approximately every five years by Congress. The current Farm Bill, which expired in September 2023, was extended for an additional year, but that extension has now expired. The researchers looked at quarterly lobbying disclosure reports and campaign donations to Congress officials associated with the Farm Bill during reelection periods in 2019-2023 to determine the reach of influence of corporate lobbying over the bill. Karen Stillerman, Deputy Director of the Union of Concerned Scientists, emphasized the responsibility of legislators to uphold the needs of small and midsize farms, historically marginalized farmers, food workers, and consumers. ************************************************************************************* Helene Damage to Georgia Agriculture Tops $6B in Preliminary Estimate The future is uncertain for thousands of Georgia farmers, the state’s agriculture commissioner said, with poultry growers and pecan farmers facing years of recovery from widespread destruction. Farmers in Georgia face billions of dollars in preliminary losses from destructive Hurricane Helene in what could be a catastrophic blow to the state’s agriculture industry. Agricultural damages are expected to reach at least $6.46 billion, according to an early estimate from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. The total is based on crop losses, plus losses to businesses and workers supporting agriculture. Estimated losses are approximately three times that of Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused at least $2 billion in damages and was considered one of the most destructive storms to hit the state. ************************************************************************************* Robots May Provide Answers to Herbicides Resistance Farmers are looking to weeding robots as herbicide resistance solution. A new survey by the Illinois Center for Digital Agriculture finds more than half of corn farmers would adopt weeding robots. Ag economist Shadi Attallah says the prevalence of herbicide resistance weeds is a major factor. A $40,000 robot and a $20,000 robot were tested, according to Attallah, and he says, “As you might imagine, the more expensive the robot, the more I’m going to wait until I have more weeds and more resistance until I adopt the robot.” More than 93 percent of planted row crop acres in the U.S. have genetically modified herbicide resistance, but Attallah says the efficacy is declining. Some studies have shown that loss of efficacy via chemical control will lead to crop losses that can reach up to $100 billion per year. Attallah recently developed an integrated weed ecological and economic dynamic, or I-WEED, model system to understand what factors could impact farmer adoption. He says earlier use of robots did lead to better profits in the model. ************************************************************************************* Oregon Rewrites Dairy Regulations, Small Farmers Drop Lawsuit The Oregon Department of Agriculture has rewritten its regulations on dairies, following push back from some small farmers. Previously, the ODA had warned dairy farms that they could face fines if they failed to register as Confined Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs. In a memo from last year, the agency said several raw milk producers were ignoring the registration requirement, creating environmental concerns and generating complaints from other dairies. However, critics argued the state’s criteria was too broad and would have saddled small businesses with regulatory requirements meant for large-scale farms. “It would have been very cost prohibitive to us to continue to operate the way that we do today, if at all,” said Sarah King with Godspeed Hollow, a two-cow farm in Newberg. “And that could have been the case for many other farms that look like us in the state.” In January, King joined three other raw milk farmers in a lawsuit against the ODA, accusing the state of protecting the corporate milk industry. “These rules don’t make sense for the small dairies, because they don’t create the kind of problems posed by these larger farming operations,” said Bobbi Taylor, a lawyer for the plaintiffs. ************************************************************************************* Lawmakers Ask EPA to Ban Paraquat Forty-seven Democratic members of Congress have asked Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to ban the use of the herbicide paraquat. The lawmakers, led by Texas Congressman Greg Casar, told Regan the chemical is particularly dangerous for farmworkers. The EPA says it has yet to find a scientific link between the use of the herbicide and Parkinson's disease. At the end of January 2024, EPA released a report on the ongoing review of paraquat. Due to the significant human health and environmental concerns associated with paraquat, roughly 70 countries have banned or discontinued the use of the chemical, including China, Brazil, the European Union, and Canada. Findings from researchers at UCLA found that paraquat sprayed within 500 meters of where people live and work can more than double a person's odds of developing Parkinson's disease.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 14, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Columbus Day Holiday -- Most futures will trade. U.S. Treasury market and bond futures are closed. Usual Monday reports such as export inspections and crop progress will be released on Tuesday. Weather A burst of cold air is moving into the country east of the Rockies early this week. Frosts and freezes in the Northern and Central Plains will spread south and east over the next couple of days. The cold is leading to some lake-effect rain showers across the Great Lakes as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 11, 2024 |

Illinois Farmers Underutilizing Insurance Product The Pasture, Rangeland and Forage Rainfall Index (PRF-RI) is a crop insurance product underutilized by Illinois livestock and forage producers. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois reports that only 6% of the eligible acres in Illinois were insured in 2024, much lower than use west of the Mississippi. Like other Federal crop insurance programs, PRF-RI is heavily subsidized. Over time, PRF-RI has returned $1.29 in payments for each $1.00 in producer-paid premium. Illinois and Midwest livestock and forage producers should consider using PRF-RI as a risk management tool. PRF-RI has been available as a risk management tool for livestock and forage producers in Illinois since 2016. According to the 2022 USDA Agricultural Census, Illinois producers operated roughly 742,000 acres of pasture and 473,000 acres were harvested for hay production. In 2024, approximately 70,000 acres were enrolled in PRF-RI, meaning less than 6% of eligible forage land in Illinois is enrolled in this subsidized insurance program. ************************************************************************************* New Report Reveals Ag Isn’t On Track to Meet Rising Demand Global agriculture productivity is falling behind the curve according to a new report by Virginia Tech. “Global agricultural productivity growth has slowed from 1.9% annually during 2001-2010 to 0.7% annually during 2013-2022,” said Tom Thompson, the report’s executive editor, associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and director of CALS Global at Virginia Tech. “This dramatic slowdown will prevent us from reaching our agricultural production and sustainability goals by 2050, with potentially dire impacts on food and nutrition security, unless we reverse this trend.” Farm Journal reports agricultural productivity growth during this period was even lower in the U.S. – averaging 0.21% annually. The report’s authors attribute this in part to the lack of public funding in agricultural research and development. At the same time, South Asia led progress at 1.4%. Global total factor productivity should be at 1.91% annually to meet the demand projected in 2050, according to the report. But due to current productivity being so far below that level, it may actually need to rise to 2%. ************************************************************************************* Mormon Church pays $289M for dozens of US farms The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ real estate arm is paying $289 million to acquire tens of thousands of acres of farmland across eight states. Farmland Reserve, a nonprofit arm of the Mormon Church, is buying 46 farms from real estate investor Farmland Partners. The farms encompass 41,500 acres of land and include sites in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and the Carolinas. Doug Rose, CEO of Farmland Reserve, said the company plans to lease “these productive farms to local farmers.” The LDS Church owns approximately 1.7 million acres of land primarily used for agriculture, according to Landgate, a commercial real estate advisory service, making it one of the largest institutional landholders in the U.S. It’s estimated the church owns $16 billion worth of property across the country, with around $2 billion for agriculture land. ************************************************************************************* H5N1 on the Rise in California Dairy Herds As a rapidly increasing number of California dairy farms suffer outbreaks of H5N1 bird flu, industry experts say it remains unclear just how the disease may affect the nation’s milk supply or pricing. As of Oct. 9, the nation’s largest milk producing state had reported 93 H5N1 outbreaks in dairy herds — nearly doubling in the span of a week. The Los Angeles Times reports there have also been three confirmed and two presumptive cases of human infection. All five cases were among Central Valley dairy workers who had no known connection. State and federal health authorities insist that H5N1 poses little threat to humans and that it is safe to drink milk that has been pasteurized, because the process kills the virus. However, dairy farmers and veterinarians are reporting far greater rates of mortality among infected herds than anticipated and steep drops in the rate of milk production among recovered cows ************************************************************************************* Court Denies Petition for Stronger EPA Regulation of Large Livestock Farms A federal judge rejected a petition from environmental activists for more strict regulation of large livestock operations in a win for the U.S. meat industry. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, based in San Francisco, threw out a lawsuit that would have changed how the Environmental Protection Agency regulates concentrated animal feeding operations. Pork producers applauded the decision. The lawsuit, filed and led by Food & Water Watch, challenged the EPA’s decision last year to deny a petition that would have required all farms to obtain permits to operate their CAFOs unless they could prove they’re not a source of pollution. In their petition, activist groups argued livestock operations are releasing pollution into waterways in violation of the Clean Water Act. In its decision, however, the court agreed with the EPA’s approach to regulating livestock production, including the formation of a subcommittee to study water quality issues, saying it was important to “seek information about how best to tackle the problem” before crafting new regulations. ************************************************************************************* USDA Projects a Record Ag Trade Deficit in 2024 U.S. agricultural exports were at $13.01 billion in August, essentially unchanged from July, against imports of $17.19 billion, which were down 2% from July, resulting in a monthly trade deficit of $4.18 billion. AgWeb reports exports thus far this fiscal year total $161.3 billion compared to imports of $188.82 billion, creating a cumulative deficit of $27.52 billion. The sector has recorded monthly deficits in 10 out of 11 months in FY 2024, with three months seeing deficits of $4 billion or more and eight months with a deficit of $1 billion or more. USDA forecasts agricultural exports at $173.5 billion and imports at a record $204 billion for a projected record trade deficit of $30.5 billion. In FY 2023, the trade gap was $17.1 billion. Based on the FY 2024 forecasts and cumulative trade data, agricultural exports in September would need to reach $12.2 billion to meet the USDA forecast, while imports would need to be $15.18 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 11, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Labor Department will report on producer prices for September. The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment for early October is scheduled for release at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are due out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's report webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather Quiet conditions are found across most of the country for Friday. A cold front going across the north could produce some isolated showers. A shower or two could continue over eastern Oklahoma as well. Otherwise, warm and dry conditions continue again.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 10, 2024 |

NCBA Releases Tax Producer Survey Results The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association released a report analyzing a nationwide tax survey of America’s cattle producers. With the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire at the end of 2025, NCBA wanted to better understand how key tax provisions like Death Tax relief and business deductions impact family-owned cattle operations. The survey showed producers’ strong support for provisions like the 1031 Like-Kind Exchange, Section 179 Expensing, bonus depreciation, and Section 199A Small Business Deduction. The survey also showed that a quarter of the respondents spend more than $10,000 every year on tax preparation, filing, and potential audits. Those expenses only add to the pressure agricultural operations remain under. “When I was starting in the ranching business, I saw the devastating impact of the Death Tax firsthand,” said NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “The tax nearly killed my dream of ranching with my family.” *********************************************************************************** Interest in Plant-Based Products is Cooling Off Plant-based products started quickly in the grocery sector a few years ago. However, Supermarket News says that the market is beginning to settle and evolve. The plant-based meat sector, a hot topic a few years ago, is currently experiencing growing pains. Fresh meat alternatives had volume sales of 36.9 million pounds for the 52 weeks ending on May 19. That’s 21 percent lower year-over-year. Volume sales for frozen alternatives totaled 90.1 million during the same period, down almost 12 percent year-over-year. Plant-based dairy is also going through a significant downcycle. Through May 19, non-dairy milk dollar sales were down 29 percent versus the same time in 2023, and volume was 18 percent lower. A Chicago-based marketing firm that specializes in plant-based products says the overall plant-based industry has been struggling, but the dairy category is especially lagging. When milk supplies dropped, plant-based milks had to increase their prices to cover costs. *********************************************************************************** McDonald’s Sues Meatpackers for Collusion McDonald’s has filed a lawsuit against Tyson Foods, JBS, and other major meat packing companies. The fast food chain is accusing the packers of colluding for years to limit beef supplies. The suit says that the collusion allowed the companies to boost their profits while forcing McDonald’s to pay inflated prices for their meat supplies. McDonald’s says the companies conspired to reduce production levels beginning on January 1, 2024, which would artificially drive up market prices. The companies have significant control over the cattle and beef industry, so they could manipulate prices “at their will.” In the suit, McDonald’s says, “Only colluding meatpackers would expect to benefit by reducing their prices and purchases of slaughtered cattle, fully aware that their conspiracy would shield them from the pressures of a competitive market.” In 2018, the “Big Four” beef companies controlled 80 percent of fresh and frozen beef sold in the U.S. *********************************************************************************** Many Cattle Producers Still Optimistic About Their Futures Cattle producers, like other farmers, are generally an optimistic bunch. A Drover’s beef industry survey shows that 64 percent of the respondents remain optimistic about the future. Over half (51 percent) of the producers plan to grow their herd size in the next five years, and another 38 percent will maintain their herd sizes. Parts of the U.S. still face dry conditions, but the situation is better than at this time in 2023. Producers are looking to the future, with 59 percent saying they’re planning to add a family member to the operation within the next five years. That number was 54 percent last year. While beef cow inventories continue to stabilize this year, the industry could experience a longer transition period as significant risks mute profit signals that would normally jump-start herd rebuilding efforts. Rabobank is forecasting a stable cow herd between 27.9 and 28.3 million over the next three years. *********************************************************************************** Ordering Food Through Phone Apps Continues Growing Two-thirds of U.S. consumers have used a food-ordering app at least once for takeout, delivery, or both. That’s according to the September 2024 Consumer Food Insights Report. Over half have used an app for a delivery order. Nearly half of those consumers say they use an app for delivery or takeout at least once a week. The survey-based report comes from Purdue University’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability and assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction, values, support of agriculture and food policies, and trust in information sources. The report breaks down per-person weekly food expenditures into three groups: thrifty (less than $50 a week), moderate ($50 to $85 a week), and liberal (over $85 a week). Most consumers don’t seem to mind the additional fees associated with ordering food. The survey also revealed that most consumers say they tip between 10 percent and 19 percent for each food delivery order. *********************************************************************************** USDA Awards First $25 Million to Help Specialty Crop Exports The USDA announced it has awarded more than $25 million to support eight projects under the new Assisting Specialty Crop Imports (ASCE) Initiative. USDA launched the initiative in January 2024 as part of the agency’s commitment to create more and better markets for U.S. producers and agribusinesses. “Specialty crop exporters face many import requirements in every foreign market they enter, yet they often don’t have the economies of scale to develop the required certifications or negotiate favorable terms,” says Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. “This innovative partnership between USDA and the specialty crops sector focuses on projects to address the non-tariff trade barriers that hinder America’s exports of fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural crops, and related products.” U.S. exports of specialty crops totaled $25.8 billion last year, increasing the bottom line for producers nationwide and driving economic development in their local communities and beyond.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 10, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. consumer price index for September and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor are also out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is out at 9:30 a.m. Weather Hurricane Milton is leaving Florida after devastating destruction across the state Wednesday night. With it going away, very little weather is in the cards across the U.S. There is a front moving into the Northern Plains, but it should remain dry there today.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 9, 2024 |

NCBA Responds to Misguided White House Event National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane responded to a questionable agriculture event hosted by the White House. “Real cattle producers have faced not one but two hurricanes in two weeks and multiple months of wildfires across the West, and instead of addressing the problems of hurting farmers and ranchers, the Biden-Harris administration hosted a pep rally to try to prop up their failing Bidenomics agenda at the White House, with animal rights advocates front and center,” he said. “Had we been invited, we could have discussed much more pressing issues like much-needed disaster relief, regulatory overreach, and USDA’s questionable approval of South American beef imports.” Lane also said the event makes clear what cattle producers have known for quite some time: “When it comes to agriculture, this administration has prioritized politics over policy that supports cattle producers.” For more information on NCBA news, go to ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Export Exchange Ongoing in Texas Nearly 250 international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and co-products from more than 50 countries are in Fort Worth, Texas, for Export Exchange 2024. It’s an opportunity for buyers to meet with nearly 300 U.S. suppliers and service providers across the value chain. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association, Export Exchange 2024 offers attendees an unparalleled opportunity to meet and build relationships with domestic suppliers of corn, distiller’s dried grains with solubles, sorghum, barley, and other commodities. Export Exchange focuses on bringing together international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and co-products, including dried distiller’s grains with solubles, with U.S. suppliers and agribusiness representatives. “Ninety-five percent of potential customers and three-fourths of the world’s purchasing power are outside of the U.S., which is another reason Export Exchange is a long-standing event that’s so critical to our industry,” says USGC Chair Verity Ulibarri (oo-lih-BAR-ee). *********************************************************************************** USDA Assistance for Distressed Farm Loan Borrowers USDA announced an additional $250 million in automatic payments for distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers. This step continues USDA’s commitment to keeping farmers and ranchers financially viable and supporting agricultural companies. “USDA continues to invest in the future of producers through our loan portfolio,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “The payments announced today help to ensure that more than 4,600 producers across the country will see another production season.” He also says these ongoing investments come on the heels of critical Farm Service Agency Loan Reforms that recently went into effect. Building on the momentum, USDA announced an estimated additional $250 million in assistance to approximately 4,650 distressed direct and guaranteed farm loan borrowers. This includes about $235 million in assistance for an estimated 4,500 delinquent direct and guaranteed borrowers who have not received prior IRA assistance. Producers should reach out to local FSA staff for assistance. *********************************************************************************** NCBA President Calls for Action at White House Meeting National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. told Biden administration officials that farmers are living through difficult economic times. However, he also said Congress and the administration can help by removing barriers so growers can access expanding markets for U.S. corn. Hartman’s comments came during an event called “Farmers and Ranchers in Action” hosted by the White House. “On behalf of my fellow growers, I spoke about the need to make it possible for producers to access tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels,” Hartman says. “The tax credit would help us expand the ethanol market, which is important for growers while boosting the airline industry’s efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.” He touched on a number of other priorities that growers hope Congress will tackle and asked administration officials to help in any way they can with pending legislation, including the long-awaited farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn and Wheat Export Inspections Decline Inspections of corn and wheat for export dropped while soybean assessments surged during the week ending on October 3. Corn inspections for overseas delivery fell to 933,274 metric tons, down from 1.15 million tons inspected a week earlier. That’s still above the 804,000 tons examined during the same week in 2023. Wheat examinations for offshore delivery declined to 363,500 tons from almost 551,000 tons during the previous week. USDA says that the total was still higher than the 306,000 tons assessed during the same week in 2023. Soybean inspections rose to 1.43 million tons from 682,000 the previous week. That total also topped the 1.4 million tons assessed during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year on September 1, corn inspections totaled 4.27 million metric tons, up from 3.5 million last year. Soybean assessments are at 3.36 million tons versus the 3.39 million last year. *********************************************************************************** TSC Sending FFA Students to National Convention Tractor Supply Company surprised five high school FFA chapters across the country with the funds needed for students to attend the 97th Annual National FFA Convention and Expo. The convention is in Indianapolis and takes place in October. It’s the pinnacle event for students involved in FFA, providing opportunities to learn, compete, and develop. Tractor Supply Company’s contribution will cover travel costs for a total of 75 students to attend. “The National FFA Convention is an invaluable experience for these students as they seek to further their agricultural education,” says a TSC news release. “We are honored to support them in this opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate each other with this formative event.” Schools in South Dakota, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas were surprised by TSC’s donations. Each year, chapters raise money to send students to the convention. TSC has donated almost $24 million through initiatives supporting FFA’s work.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 9, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by minutes from the latest Fed meeting at 1 p.m. Livestock and Meat International Trade Data from USDA will be released at 11 a.m. Stay updated on U.S. and South American weather forecasts with U.S. harvest in full swing and Brazilian soybean planting attempting to get up to speed. Weather Fairly calm and dry conditions continue across the bulk of the U.S. for Wednesday, but Florida is watching Hurricane Milton as it approaches the Gulf Coast. Though some weakening is expected prior to landfall Wednesday night, the hurricane is currently a Category 5 early this morning, and should remain a destructive hurricane at landfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 8, 2024 |

USDA Makes Changes to Assist Producers After Helene In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated communities, homes, farms, and businesses across the Southeast, USDA is taking several steps to help. The agency has deployed staff to assist with response and recovery efforts and is putting contingency plans and flexibilities in place to ensure farmers, foresters, and communities can get the help they need. USDA estimates there are more than 38,000 crop insurance policies covering more than 4.8 million acres in the affected areas. USDA instructed crop insurance companies to expedite loss adjustments that are necessary to make payments and expects those payments to be made within 30 days. The agency also reminds producers to document damage and losses, including gathering farm records, herd inventory, receipts, and pictures of damage or losses. If a producer’s local USDA Office is still without power, calling the Farm Service Agency Call Center at 877-508-8364 can help them find available offices and staff. *********************************************************************************** Middle East Conflict Affecting Fertilizer Markets Farmdoc from the University of Illinois says the ag sector is closely watching the fertilizer markets this week because of the ongoing war in the Middle East. Following months of tight supplies, global nitrogen values started rising last week. The story of the week was Iran’s attack on Israel. The Middle East is an important area for fertilizer production in general, but it’s especially important for nitrogen. “When you look at the attack on Israel, Iran didn’t impact any shipping lanes, it didn’t have any impact on fertilizer production, yet prices moved higher,” says Josh Linville of StoneX. He also says the attack on Israel may have forced the market to finally admit that supplies are tight, and it’s manifesting in higher prices. Urea prices are one example of moving higher, up 10 percent as of last week. Linville advises farmers to contact their fertilizer retailers as soon as possible. *********************************************************************************** The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest is Open The National Sorghum Yield Contest showcases the top yields across the nation. In 1985, there were over 18 million acres of grain sorghum planted in the U.S. The National Sorghum Producers Yield Contest was started to increase membership and educate producers on new management techniques. The Yield Contest provides farmers an opportunity to showcase their crops and compete with farmers from across the Sorghum Belt. The contest allows the industry to recognize some of the best growers in the U.S. and helps farmers learn from one another. The contest performs several functions important to the industry, including recognizing some of the nation’s top growers every year. It also helps improve sorghum yields across the nation and enables a knowledge transfer between growers who support enhanced management. NSP Yield Contest winners are recognized each year at an awards gala in conjunction with Commodity Classic, coming up in Denver in 2025. *********************************************************************************** NACD Launches Grant Application Period The National Association of Conservation District announced the launch of its application period for the 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program. This year, NACD and Scotts Miracle-Gro are partnering to award the 2025 Friends of NACD District Grants Program. Now in its sixth round of funding, the Friends of NACD District Grants Program is an initiative of the NACD District and Partner Relations Committee. The 2025 program will award top-ranking applicants up to $2,500 each to conduct new activities or test novel approaches to their operations. Past grant winners have implemented projects that have helped enhance their visibility within communities, reach new clients, and grow their partnerships. Examples include an Arbor Day tree-planting partnership event hosted by the Rio Grande Conservation District. The Friends of NACD Program was established in 2009 to increase support for 3,000 conservation districts nationwide. Learn more about the District Grants Program by applying at nacdnet.org. *********************************************************************************** Sugar Producers Stress Importance of Farm Bill in 2024 “Waiting till next year would be a mistake.” That’s the prognosis from Dr. Rob Johansson of the American Sugar Alliance regarding the next farm bill. “Two years’ worth of hearings have documented a brewing financial crisis caused by falling commodity prices, high input costs, and tightening farm credit,” he said. “It’s time for Congress to act.” Johannson was the USDA Chief Economist when the last farm bill was written and saw firsthand the impacts of a trade war, COVID, and climate on America’s agricultural and food system. “The level of farm assistance has fallen to its lowest level relative to farm income since 1981,” Johansson says. “It’s clear that the current suite of farm programs is fraying at the edges, farms are leaving agriculture, and farmland is being paved over.” The need for improved certainty is vital for securing credit needed for the next planting season and long-term investments in productivity. *********************************************************************************** Lambing School Set for November The American Sheep Industry Association’s Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs are planning an in-person lambing school on November 23 at the Codington County Extension Complex in Watertown, South Dakota. The one-day lambing school will focus on the preparation and basics of lambing. The school will educate and empower beginning sheep producers of any age to be confident and successful in the lambing barn, which will help improve lamb survival. The course will cover topics like nutrition pre- and post-lambing, basic equipment and facility needs, disease problems, and the steps of preparation to take before, during, and after lambing. Participants will get hands-on instruction on how to successfully assist ewes when the need arises and practice their skills on a life-size ewe model designed to demonstrate difficult births. All ages and skill levels are welcome to attend. The cost is only ten dollars, payable on the day of the school.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 8, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on the U.S. trade deficit for August is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by more specific export data from USDA and the Census Bureau later Tuesday morning. Traders continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts. Weather Hurricane Milton continues to be a very strong hurricane, but it is starting to weaken. That trend should continue Tuesday as it makes a turn toward Florida Tuesday. Rain will move through Florida ahead of the hurricane, but it won't make landfall until Wednesday night. The rest of the country will be warm and dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 7, 2024 |

Dockworkers Suspend Strike Until January 15 The union representing 45,000 striking U.S. dockworkers at East and Gulf coast ports has reached a deal to suspend a three-day strike until Jan. 15 to provide time to negotiate a new contract. The union, the International Longshoremen’s Association, is to resume working immediately. The union and the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies, also reached a tentative agreement on wage increases, but no details were given, according to a joint statement from the ports and the union Thursday night. A person briefed on the agreement said the ports raised their wage offer from about 50% over six years to 62%. The person didn’t want to be identified because the agreement is tentative. Any wage increase would have to be approved by union members as part of the ratification of a final contract. ************************************************************************************* ‘New Benchmark for Dry’ in Ohio as Drought Severely Impacts Yields Rapidly growing drought conditions across Ohio have farmers concerned about decreased yields, field fires, and overall mental health and well-being as 2024 harvest begins reports Charmayne Hefley, from Successful Farming. As corn and soybean harvest kicks off across Ohio, farmers say significant drought conditions over the past few weeks have taken a toll on yields. Brice Acton, a fifth-generation farmer in Frankfort, Ohio, said the dry conditions in his area have left him expecting anywhere from one-third to half of his typical yields. The latest drought monitor map shows just 2% of Ohio is free from drought stress compared to 49% last year at this time. Nearly 10% of the state is in exceptional drought, 21% is in extreme drought, 29% is in severe drought, 28% is in moderate drought, and 10% of the state is abnormally dry. Acton said he started harvesting his soybeans on Sept. 19, and the beans were just 8 inches tall and dry, with just 10% to 11% moisture. ************************************************************************************* Lawmakers Questioning Inaction on Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawmakers want to know why the Department of Agriculture and Boar’s Head did not take action to avoid a Listeria outbreak. A group of U.S. legislators are demanding answers from officials regarding egregious food safety violations at a production plant that has led to dozens of hospitalizations and at least 10 deaths. “What is especially troubling is how egregious sanitation problems occurred despite supposed regular oversight, oversight which typically includes at least one inspection per shift,” the legislators wrote to USDA officials. According to records released by USDA, inspectors turned up 69 records of noncompliance at this individual plant. Inspectors found and documented mold and mildew around the hand washing sinks for staff working with meats that are supposed to be ready to eat, mold in holding coolers, blood in puddles on the floor, insects in and around deli meats at the plant, and heavy meat buildup on walls and machinery. The legislators cited a New York Times story that reported that two years prior, U.S. inspectors warned that conditions at the Boar’s Head plant posed an imminent threat to public health. ************************************************************************************* Rapid On-Site Diagnostics for Pathogens NEMIS Technologies is preparing to enter the U.S. food safety industry with its on-site testing technology aimed at reducing contamination risks in food production. They are focused on providing rapid, actionable results to help food manufacturers make immediate decisions and prevent large-scale recalls. NEMIS’s diagnostic technology enables food manufacturers to conduct pathogen tests, including for Salmonella and Listeria, directly on-site instead of waiting for results from a laboratory. Traditional lab-based testing can take several days to return results, but NEMIS’s tools provide rapid data, allowing companies to act quickly to prevent contamination from spreading. The company is initially focusing on high-risk sectors such as ready-to-eat foods and food preparation in supermarkets. The technology will be especially useful in environments like sushi restaurants and fresh produce processing facilities, where raw ingredients are exposed to potential contamination. ************************************************************************************* NPPC Secures 9th Circuit Victory Defending Producers' Freedom to Farm In a victory for the U.S. pork industry, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit based in San Francisco rejected a lawsuit from several activist groups who sought to impose sweeping changes to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) rules. Last month, NPPC participated in oral arguments before the Ninth Circuit, successfully urging the court to reject the lawsuit. At that hearing, the Ninth Circuit expressed frustration and concerns with Food & Water Watch’s approach and candor. In its decision, the court made clear that EPA’s preferred approach to regulating livestock production to study water quality issues is the appropriate path for EPA and does not warrant throwing out decades of established law. NPPC stated that the lawsuit sought to use the court to upend livestock production across the country. By attacking core notions of due process and fundamental civil rights, animals rights activists sought to put pork producers around the country out of business. ************************************************************************************* Lame Duck Session Seen as Last Chance to Save Farm Bill The legislation that would set food and farm policy for the next five years is in limbo, waiting for lawmakers to decide its fate after the election. The latest deadline for the Farm Bill passed unceremoniously at midnight on Sept. 30, without a push from lawmakers to pass a new bill or an extension. Congress will have to scramble in the lame-duck session set to begin Nov. 12 to come up with some agreement before benefits run out at the end of the year — which if allowed to happen eventually would have major consequences. The law began 90 years ago with various payments to support farmers but now has an impact far beyond the farm, with programs to create wildlife habitat, address climate change and provide the nation’s largest federal nutrition program. The delay creates further uncertainty for farmers, who are facing declining prices for many crops and rising costs for fertilizer and other inputs.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 7, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will brush up on the latest weather forecasts and check the news from the Middle East and Ukraine. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Rather dry conditions continue across most of the country Monday. However, showers are spreading through Florida as Hurricane Milton strengthens in the Gulf of Mexico. The storm will be moving toward the Florida Peninsula with landfall expected on Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 4, 2024 |

University of Illinois Studies Farmland Decline The University of Illinois studied the loss of U.S. farmland, dividing the country into nine regions. Farmdoc says land in farms declined in all nine regions and was led by pastureland. The decline in pastureland was likely facilitated by a growth in livestock confinement operations. Planted cropland declined in all regions except the Northern Plains and the Mid-South regions. Because acres differ notably between regions, Farmdoc took a look at percent changes. Between 1997 and 2022, the percent decline was smallest in the Northern Plains (-4 percent) and highest in the Pacific region (-14 percent). Double-digit declines also occurred in the Rocky Mountains, Mid-South, Mid-Atlantic, and the Northeast. Pastureland had the largest declines in all regions except the Southern Plains, where planted cropland had a slightly bigger drop (-7 to -6 percent). The drop in pastureland was especially pronounced at 30 percent or more in states east of the Mississippi River. *********************************************************************************** September Missouri River Runoff Below Average September runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin was well below average, continuing the below-average runoff in 2024. “Although Montana precipitation was much wetter than normal, much of the Basin stayed dry and warm, causing the September runoff in all reaches above Gavins Point to be well below average,” says John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Runoff in the Basin below Sioux City, Iowa, has also been well-below-average during the late summer and fall, so System releases from Gavins Point Dam have been increased to maintain the flow support to meet downstream navigation targets.” Central Montana saw greater than 150 percent of normal precipitation during a few days in September. The rest of the Upper Basin received less than 25 percent of its normal precipitation. September’s runoff was 0.8 million acre-feet, 66 percent of the average above Sioux City. The total water in the system on October 1 was 53.5-million-acre feet. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Production at Highest Level in Eight Years U.S. wheat production for the 2024-2025 marketing year is estimated at 1.971 billion bushels, up nine percent year-to-year and the highest level since 2016-2017. The USDA says this stands in contrast to a long-term downward trend in U.S. wheat production that resulted in declining acreage as farmers switched to other crops like corn and soybeans. For the last two seasons, wheat acreage, as measured by area harvested, has risen. High wheat prices in Fall 2022 encouraged farmers to plan for substantially more wheat in 2023-2024. Despite the gains, a major drought in regions producing hard red winter wheat had negatively affected the harvestable volume of wheat. In the current marketing year, despite less acreage getting planted into wheat, more favorable weather is expected to boost the area harvested and yield compared to the previous season. Higher production is forecast for hard red winter, hard red spring, white, and durum classes of wheat. *********************************************************************************** Investments Will Lower Energy Costs and Create Jobs USDA’s Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small says the agency is partnering with farmers and small businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the REAP Program, or the Rural Energy for America Program. “Farmers and rural business owners deserve more access to affordable energy,” she says. “That’s why I’m proud to announce an additional $104 million in REAP loans and grants that will lower energy costs for farmers and small businesses and help them expand their operations.” That $104 million in loans and grants will support more than 300 clean energy projects in 34 states. The REAP program helps agricultural producers and rural small business owners expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydropower energy and make energy efficiency improvements. “These innovations will help those in rural America increase their income and grow their businesses while lowering energy costs for American families,” she added. *********************************************************************************** Livestock Producers Reminded of Anthrax Danger North Dakota’s state veterinarian says the state’s first reported case of anthrax this year is a reminder to livestock producers to take action to protect their animals from disease. The case included beef cattle from Adams County, North Dakota, and was confirmed by the South Dakota Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory. “Producers in past known affected areas and counties should consult with their veterinarians to review their risk factors and vaccination needs,” says ND State Vet Dr. Ethan Andres. “If producers have unusual losses on pasture, they should reach out to their local vet as they are experienced and trained for this type of response.” Effective vaccines are available, but it takes more than a week to develop immunity. The bacterial spores can lie dormant underground for decades and become active under ideal conditions. Animals are exposed to the disease when they graze in pastures or drink contaminated water.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday October 4, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department releases employment data for September at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders continue to keep up with the latest weather forecasts for the U.S., South America and Black Sea region, as well as monitor events in the Middle East and Ukraine. Weather A front in the Midwest is producing a few limited showers in Illinois early Friday morning. Those showers are forecast to die out by midday, leaving behind mostly dry conditions for much of the country. A few may pop up along the Gulf Coast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 3, 2024 |

Hurricane Helene Hits Southern Agriculture Hard Floodwaters from Hurricane Helene swamped the Southern United States, with virtually every commodity impacted. Farm Policy News says cotton, pecans, poultry, and timber were hit the hardest by the Hurricane. It brought chicken processing plants to a halt, and caused severe damage to some flocks, while also downing pecan trees and flattening crops. A USDA official said hurricane damage to crops could trigger $7 billion in insurance payouts. Moody’s Analytics says it expects $15 billion to $26 billion in property damages. Georgia and North Carolina are among the largest chicken-producing states and suffered severe damage. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said in a press conference that 107 poultry facilities had been damaged or destroyed by the storm. The Georgia Department of Ag reported that 100 poultry farms in Coffee County were affected by the storm. A table egg producer in Pierce County, Georgia, had 17 poultry houses knocked down by Helene. *********************************************************************************** EPA Finalizes Rule on Pesticide Exclusion Zones The Environmental Protection Agency announced a final rule to restore the pesticide Application Exclusion Zone requirements under the 2015 Agricultural Worker Protection Standard. The AEZ is an area surrounding outdoor pesticide application equipment where people are prohibited while pesticides are applied. This rule finalizes the agency’s 2023 proposed rule without change and advances the agency’s commitment to protecting farmworkers, pesticide handlers, their families, and agricultural communities. It reinstates AEZ protections, extends protection for neighboring communities, makes requirements easier to understand, and provides flexibility for family farms without compromising protections. “Farmworkers help provide the food that feeds our families every day, and it’s our job to keep them safe from pesticides,” says EPA’s Michael Freedhoff. “No one should be at risk from pesticide-related illnesses because of their job or where they live.” The regulation protects over two million agricultural workers, their families, and pesticide handlers who work for over 600,000 agricultural establishments. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Looking for Spring 2025 Interns The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reminds students that internship opportunities are available for the spring 2025 semester. Those opportunities include a public policy internship, a meetings and events internship, and a producer education and sustainability internship. “Interning at NCBA is a fantastic learning opportunity and a great way to jumpstart your career in the cattle industry,” says NCBA President-Elect Buck Wehrbein (WHERE-bine), a Nebraska cattle producer. “Interns perform critical work that supports our advocacy efforts in Washington, our producer education programs, and our industry-focused meetings and events, including the annual cattle industry convention.” He’s encouraging students to apply for these internships and see how their skills might help the American cattle and beef industry. The public policy internship supports NCBA’s government affairs team in Washington, D.C. The meetings and events internship is in Denver, Colorado, as is the producer education and sustainability internship. For information or to apply, visit ncba.org. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Groups Call for a Quick End to Port Strike The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council called on the administration to immediately intervene in the port labor strike at the East and Gulf Coast ports. The dairy organizations warned that this disruption could have a devastating impact on America’s dairy farmers and exporters, who rely on the smooth functioning of these ports to get their products to international markets. “The administration must act now to bring both sides to the table because the stakes are too high,” says Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “This strike puts the livelihoods of American dairy farmers and the strength of our supply chain at risk.” Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, says global customers depend on the reliability of U.S. dairy products. Delays caused by this strike not only risk damaging those relationships but also severely impact perishable dairy products that require timely delivery,” Harden says. *********************************************************************************** New Land Management Course for Livestock Producers Noble Research Institute and Certified Angus Beef partnered to deliver Land Stewardship, an educational course designed for livestock producers worldwide. Land Stewardship will launch next month and is an extension of Noble’s curriculum. It offers an introduction to the six soil health principles and how they work with the ecosystem processes. Available fully online and free, the program provides participants with the ability to complete it at their own pace. Producers of all sizes and locations will gain insights into improving their land management for healthy soil, better grazing animal performance, and a more resilient and profitable operation. “We are excited to partner with Certified Angus Beef, a company with a long history of commitment to the beef industry and the establishment of a set of uncompromising standards for taste,” says Steve Rhines, president and CEO of Noble Research. Bruce Cobb of CAB says farmers and ranchers are land stewards first. *********************************************************************************** Mercy Chefs Serving Meals After Hurricane Helene Mercy Chefs, a Virginia-based disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization, is serving hot, chef-prepared meals to the victims, volunteers, and first responders of Hurricane Helene. The nonprofit has served more than 27 million meals since it was founded in 2006 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The team is serving lunches and dinners in several locations across Florida. “This devastation caused by Hurricane Helene along Florida’s Big Bend and the Southeast is overwhelming,” says Gary LeBlanc, founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs. “We have the capacity to produce upwards of 20,000 meals a day as we work to feed body and soul wherever we are needed the most.” After Hurricane Katrina, LeBlanc went to New Orleans to volunteer and realized disaster relief could be done better. Nearly 20 years later, the organization has provided restaurant-quality meals across the country and around the globe. For more information, go to mercychefs.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday October 3, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for August are due at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The latest weather forecasts and news from the Middle East and Ukraine continue to get trader attention. Weather A front is sagging south into the U.S. on Thursday and while it is bringing some slightly chilly air into the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, it is rather dry. Some spotty showers may form over the Midwest late tonight into Friday, but coverage looks awfully low.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 2, 2024 |

Dockworker Strike Begins at East and Gulf Coast Ports Dockworkers at ports stretching from Maine to Texas are walking picket lines as of Tuesday morning, striking over wages and automation. Farm Policy News says it could reignite inflation and cause shortages of goods if it goes more than a few weeks. There was some progress reported on Monday in the contract talks, but workers went on strike after the current agreement ended at midnight. The strike affects 36 ports and is the first by the union since 1977. Reports say the affected ports handle 68 percent of all containerized exports in the U.S. and approximately 56 percent of containerized imports. The strike is expected to have a limited impact on bulk grain supports, including corn and soybeans. Bulk grain export facilities typically operate with different labor arrangements. However, soybeans, soybean meal, and other agricultural products exported via containers would be affected. A strike will reduce U.S. economic activity by $7.5 billion. *********************************************************************************** Dockworker Strike Highlights Importance of Food Independence American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says America is bracing for the impact of the massive dockworker strike that threatens to paralyze goods in and out of the U.S. He points out that our nation relies on international trade for everything from electronics to machinery. “Families also count on the imports of foods like bananas, coffee, and specialty items,” he says. “While there is a risk of shortages of some items, America is fortunate it can meet its nutritional needs without importing food.” He adds that America’s farmers grow a diverse range of foods that help ensure the nation’s food independence and grocery stores will remain stocked with domestically-raised products. “It’s even tougher because the dockworker strike started at the same time the farm bill extension expired,” Duvall adds. “Farmers meet the needs of America’s families with help from the farm bill, and now are working under a cloud of uncertainty.” *********************************************************************************** Farmer Sentiment Reaches Lowest Point Since 2016 The September Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reached its lowest readings since March 2016. Declining income expectations pushed farmer sentiment down as the barometer fell to 88, and the Index of Future Expectations dropped 14 points to 94. The Index of Current Conditions also fell seven points to 76, nearly matching levels seen in April 2020, during the height of COVID. September’s survey revealed that farmers are increasingly worried about commodity prices, input costs, agricultural trade prospects, and the potential impact of the upcoming election on their farm operations. The top concerns for survey respondents include 34 percent saying high input costs were their chief worry. Also, 33 percent pointed to lower output prices as their number one worry. Only 26 percent of all the survey respondents expect agricultural exports to rise during the next five years, the most pessimistic response to the question since it began in 2019. *********************************************************************************** National Corn Growers Association Elect a New President Kenneth Hartman, Jr., a corn farmer from Waterloo, Illinois, is the new President of the National Corn Growers Association. As his term began this week, he has a number of things to work on, including pushing Congress to pass a robust farm bill, expand markets, and address tariffs that are being placed on ag supplies and passed on to farmers. He also wants to extend consumer access to higher blends of ethanol. The key to accomplishing big goals like this is building relationships. “My theme as president is ‘Building Bridges,’” Hartman says. “We need to build on our ties with existing allies while cultivating new relationships with other organizations inside and outside of agriculture.” He also says corn growers need to continue reaching out to policymakers and other leaders who may not represent rural communities but who benefit indirectly from the work of farmers. “We’re building a coalition,” Hartman adds. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Calls for Emergency Assistance After Helene Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow called for emergency assistance for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities who suffered devastating losses in the wake of Hurricane Helene. “This is a horrible blow to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the Southeast just as the harvest season was getting started for many crops,” Stabenow says. “As Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, I’m focused on ensuring that these farmers and ranchers get the emergency assistance they need to get back on their feet as soon as possible.” AccuWeather recently increased its estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Helene from $145 billion to $160 billion. That number makes Hurricane Helene one of the costliest storms in United States history. Meantime, Stabenow encourages farmers and ranchers to report their losses to crop insurance agents and contact their local USDA offices for information on existing disaster assistance programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Boosts Farmer Support and Nutrition Assistance The USDA is investing $1.7 billion for purchasing local and regionally produced foods and domestically produced foods for emergency food assistance. These investments, made possible by the Commodity Credit Corporation, will help American producers by ensuring they have the certainty of access to local and regional markets as well as the financial benefits that come with selling directly to institutions. With these purchases, USDA is at the same time ensuring schools, childcare facilities, and emergency food providers have access to healthy foods. “These investments provide immediate and long-term assistance to American farmers, families, and communities,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “By delivering food from domestic producers to schools, child care facilities, and emergency feeding organizations, we’re securing local and regional markets for those farmers and ensuring that students, young children, and neighbors in need are getting nutritious and reliable meals.” For more information on food support, go to usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday October 2, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders remain attentive to events out of the Middle East and the latest weather forecasts. Weather Very quiet conditions are expected across the U.S. today, though a front will dip into the far northern tier. Precipitation will be limited at best.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 1, 2024 |

Grain Stocks Report Shows More Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat The USDA released its September 1 Grain Stocks Report, which showed old crop corn stocks in all positions totaled 1.76 billion bushels, up 29 percent from September 1, 2023. Of the total stocks, 780 million bushels are stored on farms, 29 percent higher than last year. Off-farm stocks, at 980 million bushels, were up 30 percent from a year ago. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2024, totaled 342 million bushels, up 29 percent from September 1, 2023. Soybean stocks on-farm totaled 111 million bushels, 54 percent higher than in 2023. Off-farm stocks are 20 percent above last year. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.99 billion bushels, up 12 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks are 42 percent higher than last year at 664 million bushels. Off-farm stocks, at 1.32 billion bushels, are 13 percent higher than a year earlier. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Push for Post-Election Farm Bill Now that the farm bill extension reached its deadline on Monday, what’s next? Farm Policy News says while the bill expires on Monday, September 30, the funds don’t run out until the end of the year. Some lawmakers, including Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR), have called for another one-year extension. House Republicans said that another extension would fail to stop the bleeding in the farm economy. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries puts the farm bill third on his list of must-pass bills for the lame-duck session of Congress, behind only averting a government shutdown and assuring military preparedness. “Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until the next Congress for an enactment of an effective five-year farm bill,” says House Ag Committee Chair Glen Thompson (R-PA). Earlier this month, over 300 ag groups flew to Washington to lobby for quick farm bill passage. *********************************************************************************** New Website Strengthens Value of Dairy Checkoff Dairy Management Inc. has launched a new website to more effectively communicate the full national and local impact of the dairy checkoff to farmers and importers. The new site, dairycheckoff.com, has content focused on these audiences that was previously found at USDairy.com. The new site is a way to focus on checkoff areas that are important to farmers, including growing dairy demand, sustainability, research and innovation, health and nutrition, and others. “In speaking with farmers, we could see there was some confusion when we had just one website for the entirety of the checkoff, and they didn’t know how to get more information on the programs that are delivering results for them,” says Joanna Hunter, head of farmer relations and outreach for DMI. “We developed dairycheckoff.com with a farmer-first mindset.” Visitors will find information on key checkoff pillars. There are episodes of the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast and many other features. *********************************************************************************** Paying Livestock Producers to Stop “Factory Farming” Congressional Democrats unveiled a bill that would pay livestock farmers on large industrial operations to transition toward more climate-friendly practices. Agriculture Dive says the bill would use Inflation Reduction Act funding to provide farmers with grants to transition Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations into specialty crop production or pasture-based livestock operations. Farmers participating in this program would need to permanently cease operating their CAFOs within 180 days. The proposal comes as House Republicans look to move IRA funds earmarked for climate-smart agriculture to pay for other priorities in the farm bill. Democrats are fighting against that, although some have criticized the program for funding manure management and other practices shown to have little impact on climate change. “This legislation leverages conservation funding to give farmers a completely voluntary new path forward by providing them with the resources to transition to a more climate-friendly and humane system,” says New York Senator Cory Booker. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up Slightly The U.S. inventory of hogs and pigs on September 1, 2024, totaled 76.5 million head, up slightly from September 1, 2023, and two percent higher than June 1, 2024. Breeding inventory, at 6.04 million head, was down two percent from last year, but up one percent from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 70.4 million head, was up one percent from last year, and up two percent from last quarter. The June-August 2024 pig crop, at 35 million head, was one percent below 2023. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.99 million head, two percent lower than in 2023. The sows farrowed during the quarter represented 50 percent of the overall breeding herd. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow during the September-November 2024 quarter, down slightly from the actual farrowing during the same period last year, and down four percent from the same time in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Using Nuclear Energy to Power Rural Utilities As part of the Investing in America Agenda, the Department of Energy and USDA announced more than $2.8 billion to support reliable, affordable, and clean power in the Midwest. DOE, through its Loan Programs Office, announced the closing of a loan guarantee of up to 1.52 billion dollars under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program for Holtec Palisades to help finance the restoration and resumption of service of an 800-megawatt nuclear-generating station in Covert Township, Michigan. This represents a first-of-its-kind effort by DOE to restart an American nuclear power plant. It will generate carbon pollution-free energy and save and expand a union workforce in Michigan while helping strengthen America’s nuclear energy sector and advance core climate and domestic energy goals. USDA also announced more than $1 billion in Empowering Rural America program awards for two rural electric cooperatives, including Wolverine Power Cooperative and Hoosier Energy.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 1, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world roll in overnight, leading up to the release of the U.S. index at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. NASS's Fats and Oils report is due out at 2 p.m., along with updates of USDA's Commodity Costs and Returns estimates. Weather The upper-level low and remnants of Hurricane Helene are finally getting pushed eastward and out of the country by a cold front cruising through the Midwest on Tuesday. Spotty showers are all that is left from the low and front. Colder temperatures are filling in behind the front but they won't last long as warm and dry conditions look to be the norm for the next couple of weeks.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 30, 2024 |

Veterinarian Shortage Reaching Crisis Level Veterinarian shortages are not new. Anyone who ever needed a vet in the middle of the night will tell you that. And any rural vet called in the middle of the night will agree. What is new is the realization that it is about to get worse. “If our veterinary workforce is not adequately staffed and prepared, in the event of an animal health emergency, there could be catastrophic consequences for the United States and the global food system,” said Dr. Erin Luley, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. According to Jody Kull, professor from Penn State University, about 50% of rural veterinarians currently in practice are within five years of retirement. Only 5% of practicing veterinarians in the United States are food animal veterinarians working on food, fiber or /milk-producing animals. Nationally, only about 3% to 4% of graduating veterinarians enter livestock practice. *********************************************************************************** FDA Set to Launch Human Foods Project on October 1 The Food and Drug Administration reached a significant milestone when it approved its reorganization and created its new unified Human Foods Program (HFP). It is one of the most significant reorganizations in FDA’s history. The new model for field operations and other significant modernization efforts is only days away, with Oct. 1 set as the implementation date. According to FDA, the new Human Foods Program will “notably enhance the agency’s ability to oversee and protect the human food supply and other products the FDA regulates. The FDA says it is focused on transforming the agency to be more efficient, nimble, and ready for the future with the ever-changing and complex industries it regulates. That includes the emergence of new food technologies, the impacts of globalization, climate change, and other factors that require the FDA to adapt to an evolving world quickly. ************************************************************************************* ASA & NOPA Welcome Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Boost Domestic Energy The American Soybean Association and the National Oilseed Processors Association last week hailed the introduction of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to support renewable fuels produced from domestically sourced feedstocks. The Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act, would restrict eligibility for the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to fuels produced from domestic feedstocks and make 45Z a 10-year credit by extending it to 2034. ASA President Josh Gackle said that biofuel production paves a key path for the country to be a clean energy leader, and U.S. farmers who grow the crops going into those biofuels take pride in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the U.S. economy and energy independence. Imported waste feedstocks are assigned lower carbon intensity scores and benefit from minimal oversight and testing. Without this legislation, biofuel producers will have added incentive to buy imported feedstocks over U.S. soybean oil. ************************************************************************************* Codex Proposes Guidelines for Controlling Food Fraud A Codex committee has made progress on guidelines for preventing and controlling food fraud. The draft guidance has been sent to the Codex Alimentarius Commission for adoption, which will meet in Switzerland in November. The United States chaired the electronic working group. Food safety regulators from 60 countries and international organizations met to discuss food standards. Four new work proposals have also been put forward. These include guidance on appeals mechanisms due to the rejection of imported food, harmonizing the use of food establishment listing for market access, guidelines for the presentation of sanitary attestations on export certificates to better enable the transition to paperless trade, and principles to guide the digitalization of national food control systems. These must be approved at Codex’s November meeting. ************************************************************************************* U.S. Pork Producers, Veterinarians Protected from Misguided Antimicrobial Reduction Mandate In a victory for America’s pork producers and swine veterinarians, the National Pork Producers Council celebrated the United Nations’ decision to reject proposed on-farm target reductions of antimicrobials. Instead, the UN declaration on antimicrobial resistance invests in stewardship programs and strengthens veterinarians’ roles on the farm, which NPPC strongly supports. Without NPPC’s leadership and science-based voice in these discussions, by 2030 the UN could have implemented a 30% global on-farm reduction in antimicrobials, as well as limits on the use of certain antibiotics in animal agriculture. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, domestic sales of all medically important antimicrobials intended for use in food-producing animals decreased by 33% between 2016 and 2017. ************************************************************************************* Kraft Heinz Brings Procurement Expertise to Rise Against Hunger Food giant Kraft Heinz is leveraging its logistics partnerships to help the nonprofit bring food to communities in need across Europe. When Kraft Heinz was facing challenges in delivering food for nonprofit Rise Against Hunger, the company set out to leverage its existing procurement network through the Kraft Heinz Rise Together Procurement Program. The program, piloted in 2022, led to the formation of a cross-functional team of supply chain, operations, legal and environmental, social and governance experts, Sara Zeidan, head of agriculture and sustainability in the East at Kraft Heinz. The experts worked with the nonprofit to find ways to deliver food seamlessly, which helped create a blueprint for future logistics challenges. This year, the company has already committed $15 million to Rise Against Hunger and extended its partnership with the nonprofit for the next three years as the two continue to grow their work together.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 30, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's Quarterly Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary at 11 a.m. The weekly Crop Progress report will be out at 3 p.m. Grain traders are staying close to the latest weather reports and are interested in damage assessments from Hurricane Helene. Weather The remnants of what was Hurricane Helene continue to produce some limited showers in the Mid-Atlantic region Monday, but rainfall amounts will be quite low. A front is sweeping through the Northern Plains Monday morning and will push south and east across the Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. The front will be dry but kick up some strong winds in the Northern Plains that could be a risk for spreading wildfires.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 27, 2024 |

Groups Ask Administration to Intervene in East Coast Strike Threat Ag groups are urging the White House to step in and help avert a potential strike that could occur at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports beginning on October 1. Groups like the American Farm Bureau, Renewable Fuels Association, and the American Chemistry Council said, “The time has come for the government to intervene and ensure port operations don’t stop.” They’re asking for help in preventing damage to U.S. agriculture and the overall economy. Country Wide says Republican Senator Ted Cruz cited a JP Morgan analysis that predicted a strike at that large number of ports could cost the economy $5 billion daily. Negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association union and the United States Maritime Alliance employer group appear to be deadlocked on pay as the current contract expires on September 30. The Biden administration says it doesn’t intend to invoke the Taft-Hartley Act to prevent a strike. *********************************************************************************** USDA Farm Loan Changes Now in Effect USDA’s updates to the Farm Service Agency’s Farm Loan Programs are officially in effect. These changes are designed to increase financial flexibility for agricultural producers, allowing them to grow their operations, boost profitability, and build long-term savings. USDA says the new rules will mean a low-interest installment set-aside program. Financially distressed borrowers can defer up to one annual loan payment at a reduced interest rate. There are also flexible repayment terms. New repayment options give borrowers the ability to increase their cash flow and build working capital reserves, allowing for long-term financial planning. The new rules also mean reduced collateral requirements. FSA lowered the amount of additional loan security needed for direct farm loans, making it easier for borrowers to leverage their existing equity without putting their personal residence at risk. USDA says the new rules give farmers and ranchers better tools to manage their operations and get long-term financial stability. *********************************************************************************** USDA Encourages Producers to Prepare for Hurricane Helene The USDA reminds communities, farmers, ranchers, families, and small businesses in the path of Hurricane Helene that the agency has programs to provide help in the wake of natural disasters. Rainfall with the storm could trigger severe flooding in many areas. USDA partnered with FEMA and other disaster-focused organizations and created the Disaster Resource Center. This information source includes a searchable database of disaster-related resources powered by agents with subject matter expertise. USDA also developed a disaster assistance recovery tool specifically targeted to rural and agricultural issues. The tool walks producers through five questions that generate personalized results identifying which USDA disaster assistance programs can help them recover from a natural disaster like Hurricane Helene. USDA also encourages residents and small businesses in impact zones to contact a local USDA office to determine which assistance programs might fit their individual needs. To learn more about getting recovery help, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** CLA Elects New Board President CropLife America, the national association representing the manufacturers, distributors, and formulators of organic and non-organic pesticides, elected Darren Dillenbeck as its new Board Chair. Dillenbeck, president of FMC North America, will hold the title for two years and use his skills to help guide the association. “We’re so pleased to welcome Darren as the new Chair of our Board,” says Alexandra Dunn, CropLife America president and CEO. “His deep commitment to CLA members and the agricultural community will be invaluable as we continue important work on our most pressing issues.” Dillenbeck also says he’s honored to be elected to the new position and notes that their work as an industry has never been more critical. “We will ensure that our collective voice is heard on its own and alongside the voices of American farmers, whose livelihoods depend on having the necessary tools to succeed in an increasingly challenging global economy,” Dillenbeck says. *********************************************************************************** ALB Sponsors Young Leaders at Global Forum Young leaders in the U.S. sheep industry participated in the 2024 Global Sheep Forum’s NexGen Program in Australia in August. The leaders were selected to take part through a competitive application process sponsored by the American Lamb Board. The NexGen Forum was held in conjunction with the annual LambEx educational conference. The program is designed to create a global forum of young producers and leaders to share their ideas and network and to broaden their understanding of new innovations and technology in sheep production practices around the world. ALB Chair Jeff Ebert says participation in the Global Forum was important because the U.S. sheep industry must stay innovative and progressive to increase our production efficiencies and improve American competitiveness. “Educating our producers about the newest technologies and global opportunities is critical,” Ebert says. The program included farm tours focused on genetics, sustainability, traceability, and innovation. For more information on this, go to lambboard.com. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for World Ag Expo Innovation Contest The World Ag Expo offers a look into the latest innovation and education through the return of the Top 10 New Products Contest and Seminar Series. The Top 10 New Products Competition at the World Ag Expo provides a glimpse into cutting-edge technology and innovation. Open to exhibitors, the innovation contest showcases the latest in a competitive field of new products ranging from groundbreaking technology to simple solutions. Previous award winners have pointed to the Top 10 New Products competition as a catalyst for future success. “Winning a Top 10 award at the 2024 World Ag Expo provided a significant opportunity for Farm-ng,” says Nathan Dorn, Director of Agriculture Business Development for Farm-ng. Entrants must be exhibitors at the 2025 World Ag Expo, and products released anywhere between February 8, 2024, and February 13, 2025, are eligible. World Ag Expo is the largest annual outdoor ag tradeshow in the world. For more information, go to WorldAgExpo.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 27, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the U.S. Commerce Department will release August reports of U.S. personal incomes, consumer spending and the PCE inflation index. The University of Michigan's final consumer sentiment index for September is due out at 9 a.m. Hurricane Helene is creating problems in the southeastern U.S. and grain traders are staying close to weather forecasts for several crop areas around the world. Weather Helene has degraded into a tropical storm overnight as it has pushed north through Georgia, but it is still producing strong winds and areas of heavy rain that will intensify across the Mid-South throughout the day Friday. Breezy winds will also develop over the Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 26, 2024 |

Groups Respond to SAF Tax Credit Guidelines Legislation introduced in the House and Senate would extend a new sustainable aviation fuel tax credit for biofuels for ten years and prevent foreign producers from accessing the credits. Groups like the National Corn Growers Association applauded the legislation that supports domestic producers. “Corn growers are making every effort to help the airline industry lower its greenhouse gas emissions through the use of corn ethanol,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). The 45Z tax credit provides incentives to refineries that produce biofuels that can be used in commercial aircraft. The National Oilseed Processors Association and the American Soybean Association also hailed the legislation. “NOPA commends this bipartisan, bicameral legislative effort that puts U.S. fuel producers, crushers, and farmers first,” says NOPA President Kailee Buller. “While we support free trade and open markets, we don’t believe foreign feedstocks should benefit on the backs of U.S. taxpayers and to the detriment of U.S. farmers.” ************************************************************************************* Coalition Commends Senate SAF Caucus The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition’s Executive Director, Allison Graab, issued a statement applauding the establishment of the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Fuel Caucus. The Caucus is led by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Boozman (R-AR), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). “The SAF Coalition is grateful to Senator Jerry Moran and his colleagues, Senators Duckworth, Boozman, and Klobuchar for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Fuel Caucus,” Graab says. “The formation of the SAF Caucus is a positive step towards strengthening national energy security, driving economic growth, and generating quality jobs across the country through the development and deployment of SAF.” Graab also says her group is looking forward to working with the Caucus and other SAF supporters and advocates to enhance incentives to expand SAF production and support the nation’s energy needs. The SAF Coalition represents the entirety of the SAF value chain. ************************************************************************************* Farm Bill, Ag Economy Top Concerns at Tenth Ag Outlook Forum Navigating a softer ag economy and no new farm bill were the chief topics at the Tenth Annual Ag Outlook Forum on September 16 in Kansas City. Hosted by Agri-Pulse and the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, the Forum is a critical information exchange between national leaders in ag policy, economics, and business during harvest season. In an overview of the economy, USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer said most crop prices will likely continue their downward trend through the end of 2024, but so will total production expenses, alleviating some of the losses. “Crop receipts are expected to lower net farm income for 2024,” he said to those in attendance. He’s hopeful that farmers have several good years of farm income stashed away to help carry them through the leaner time. Jackson Takach of Farmer Mac says the major difference between now and the last down-cycle is the interest rate. ************************************************************************************* Port Strike Could Hinder U.S. Ag Shipments A potential strike at three dozen U.S. ports could upend supply chains and raise prices weeks before election day. Farm Policy News says the International Longshoremen’s Association says it will have 25,000 members walk off the job if the union doesn’t come to a new agreement with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents carriers and marine terminal operators, before their contract ends on September 30. The contract covers all ports between Maine and Texas, including New York, Savannah (Georgia), Houston, Miami, and New Orleans. A coalition of 177 trade groups says those ports handle 41 percent of the country’s containerized port volume, and their closure would have a devastating impact on the U.S. economy. While bulk grain exports would largely be unaffected, the strike would impact containerized agricultural exports like soybeans, soybean meal, and other agricultural products exported via containers would be affected, forcing farmers to move shipments to new ports. ************************************************************************************* Columbia Lifts Ban on U.S. Beef Imports Colombia lifted a ban on American beef imports from the states where bird flu was detected in dairy cows. According to USDA’s export library, beef exporters in 14 states will get restored access to Colombian markets. Colombia was the only country to ban U.S. beef imports over the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle. Agriculture Dive says Colombia’s ban hurt U.S. beef export purchases and reduced Colombia’s spending by as much as 70 percent during the summer. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says the U.S. is Colombia’s largest supplier of imported beef. Before the restrictions went into effect, Colombia averaged about three million dollars per month in U.S. beef purchases. In July, exports fell to less than $850,000. While Colombia is considered an active market for the U.S. beef trade, it still makes up a small percentage of total exports. The U.S. sent over $40 million in beef to Colombia in 2023. ************************************************************************************* Mexico to Import Less U.S. Corn USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service says Mexico will import less corn as its domestic production increases in the 2024-2025 marketing year. A report from the FAS Mexico City Office says corn exports to Mexico will fall two percent to 23 million metric tons. Production is forecast to jump six percent to 25 million metric tons during the 2024-2025 marketing year. “The forecast is based on higher-than-average precipitation and gradual recovery of their reservoirs during the summer of 2024 following severe and exceptional drought conditions in the previous market year,” the department said. Mexico bought $5.39 billion worth of U.S. corn in 2023, making it by far the largest importer. Japan was second at $2.07 billion, and China was third at $1.63 billion. Harvested area in the current marketing year is expected to rise five percent to 15.8 million acres. From January 1 through August 11, precipitation was three percent higher than the 30-year average.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 26, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. second-quarter GDP, U.S. durable goods orders and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report and quarterly hogs and pigs report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather Hurricane Helene has strengthened since Wednesday and should continue to do so throughout the day Thursday as it heads north through the Gulf of Mexico. It may become a Category 3 storm, or major hurricane, before landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida by Thursday evening. Rain bands from Helene have already been moving through Florida and the storm will be interacting with a front and upper-level low in the region to produce heavy rain for the Southeast throughout the day.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 25, 2024 |

Rural Mainstreet Index Stays Below Growth Neutral For the 13th consecutive month, the Rural Mainstreet Index sank below growth neutral. That’s according to a September survey of bank CEO’s in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture and-or energy. The region’s reading in September sank from 40.9 in August to 37.5. It was the lowest level since COVID began in spring 2020. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral. “Weak agriculture commodity prices, sinking agriculture equipment sales, and elevated input costs pushed the Index below growth neutral for the 13th straight month,” says Ernie Goss (Gahs) of Creighton University. For the fourth time in five months, farmland prices sank. The region’s farmland index fell to 43.8 from 45.5 in August. “Only 4.2 percent of bank CEOs reported that farmland prices expanded from August levels,” Goss adds. “One-fourth of the bankers anticipate a 10 to 20 percent downturn in prices next year.” ************************************************************************************* USDA Invests $466 Million in Food and Agriculture Projects Worldwide The USDA will provide $466.5 million to strengthen global food security through its two premiere international development programs. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the agency will provide $248 million to the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, and USDA will provide $218.5 million to help seven countries through the Food for Progress program. Under both programs, USDA purchases U.S.-grown commodities and provides them to implementing organizations, including the United Nations World Food Program. Food for Progress implementing partners sell the commodities locally and use the proceeds to support local development projects. This year, USDA will provide more than 37,000 metric tons of U.S. commodities to support projects in many countries, including El Salvador, Ethiopia, and Guatemala. That will benefit 1.2 million children and their family members in 2,800 pre-primary and primary schools. Food for Progress will utilize 315,000 metric tons of American commodities to benefit almost 200,000 farmers. ************************************************************************************* Mandating Milk for Military Installations Two Navy veterans, Congressmen Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin and Guy Reschenthaler of Pennsylvania introduced the Strengthening Our Servicemembers with Milk Act. The bill directs the U.S. Secretary of Defense to provide fluid or powdered milk to members of the Armed Forces at dining facilities on military installations. “The milk produced by our hardworking dairy farmers is a vital source of nutrients, playing a critical role in supporting the health and strength of our servicemembers,” says Van Orden. “By mandating milk on military installations, we are ensuring our men and women in uniform have access to healthy food options while serving our country.” Reschenthaler also says milk plays an important role in America’s success. “It provides vital nutrients to the American people with the help of our dairy farmers in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and across the nation,” Reschenthaler says. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with my fellow Navy veteran.” ************************************************************************************* Egg Production Down Three Percent in August U.S. egg production totaled 9.08 billion during August 2024, down three percent from last year. Production included 7.77 billion table eggs and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.21 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during August totaled 370 million, down three percent from last year. August egg production per 100 layers was 2,451, up slightly from August 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on September 1, 2024, were 372 million, down three percent from last year. The 372 million layers consisted of 307 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 61.6 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.66 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of laying per day on September 1 averaged 79.3 eggs per 100 layers, up one percent from September 1 of last year. Egg-type chicks hatched during August totaled 57.4 million, up nine percent from August 2023. ************************************************************************************* CFTC Issues First Carbon Credit Market Guidelines The Commodity Futures Trading Commission approved the first guidelines for the trading of voluntary carbon credit derivative contracts in the country. Carbon credit derivative contracts are financial instruments that derive their value from carbon credits, which represent the right to emit one metric ton of carbon dioxide or an equivalent amount of greenhouse gasses. AgriMarketing Dot Com says the contracts allow traders and market participants to hedge against or speculate on the future price of carbon credits, similar to how traditional derivative contracts function in commodities or financial markets. Regulators pushed for heightened scrutiny of voluntary carbon markets, which have developed outside government oversight due to concerns over quality and double counting. “The CFTC’s mission focused on risk mitigation and price discovery puts us on the front lines of the global nexus between financial markets and decarbonization efforts,” says CFTC Chair Rostin Benham. “We’ve outlined guidance to crack down on manipulation.” ************************************************************************************* NASDA Hosts 2024 Next Generation Cohort The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation hosted the 2024 NASDA Next Generation Program at the NASDA Annual Meeting in Indianapolis. The program is designed to engage college students with leaders in agricultural policy and industry, fostering professional connections and promoting exposure to state and federal policy discussions. Launched in 2015, NASDA’s Next Generation Program provides an opportunity for college students to interact directly with leaders who represent state departments of agriculture from around the country. “The unique and innovative perspectives of these students are an essential part of the conversation as we look to support more robust and resilient agricultural food systems,” says NASDA Foundation Senior Director Chris Jones. “With support from our program sponsors, we are proud of the connections and opportunities that this initiative continues to create for the next generation of agricultural leaders.” The students engaged with industry leaders and attended policy meetings.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 25, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in August is set for 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m., a report that includes weekly ethanol production. Weather A front has pushed to the Gulf and East Coasts, where scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue for Wednesday. Eyes remain on the Gulf of Mexico as Tropical Storm Helene becomes a hurricane and quickly strengthens throughout the day as it moves northward toward the Florida Panhandle.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 24, 2024 |

NCGA Applauds House Vote on Tailpipe Emissions The National Corn Growers Association applauded the House of Representatives for passing a bill last week that would overturn tailpipe emissions standards from the Environmental Protection Agency. Those standards focus solely on using electric vehicles to lower greenhouse gas emissions. “The members of Congress who passed this legislation understand there are many different tools that we can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “While it could take years to realize the potential that EVs offer, ethanol is an effective part of a portfolio of options for addressing climate concerns and is fully available for use today.” A decision of this magnitude will have long-lasting negative impacts on the rural economy because it ignores the benefits of ethanol. It’s uncertain whether the Senate will consider the legislation before the end of 2024. The Corn Growers are currently litigating in federal court against the rule. ************************************************************************************* USDA Releases Cattle on Feed and Milk Production Reports Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more animals totaled 11.2 million head on September 1. That inventory was one percent above September 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots totaled 1.98 million head, one percent below last year. Net placements were 1.92 million head. Fed cattle marketings in August totaled 1.82 million head, four percent below last year. Meantime, milk production in the 24 major dairy states during August reached 18.1 billion pounds, up 0.1 percent from August 2023. Production per cow in the 24 states averaged 2,036 pounds for August, eight pounds higher than August 2023. The number of milk cows on farms totaled 8.8 million head, 28,000 head less than August 2023, but unchanged from July 2024. Overall United States milk production in August reached 18.8 billion pounds, down 0.1 percent from August 2023. ************************************************************************************* Recent Soy Sales Won’t Lift Export Prospects The U.S. is coming off one of its worst soybean export seasons in recent memory. Shipments during the season rivaled those from a few years ago when the U.S. and China were locked in a trade war. Export sales for 2024-2025 began on September 1 and have been stronger than average over the past months as China stepped into the market to make purchases. XM Dot Com says two weeks into the marketing year, overall soy sales were at five-year lows and five percent below this time last year. Brazil, one of the top competitors of the U.S. in the world soy market, doesn’t have as many soybeans to export this year, and America’s soybeans have recently been more price-competitive. However, for the third straight year, logistics are getting disrupted by low water levels on the Mississippi River, restricting the movement of grain to the busiest export hub in the U.S. ************************************************************************************* Partnership on Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture Purdue University and Bayer announced the creation of the Coalition for Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture, a public-private partnership designed to help improve the soil health of farmland while also increasing food production for a growing population. The coalition’s mission is to generate robust, real-world data in support of regenerative agriculture practices to help farmers restore soil health and biomass, increase biodiversity, and improve the resiliency of ecosystems over time. The coalition’s new frameworks will also support education and outreach programs to enhance sustainable and regenerative agriculture. “America’s farmers are already global leaders in providing food worldwide, supplying a substantial amount of grain, meat, and other agricultural products,” says Karen Plaut, executive vice president for research at Purdue. “But with population projections of nine billion people in the years ahead, it’s critical to provide the tools that support those farmers who are called upon to produce even more while stewarding their lands.” ************************************************************************************* USDA Launches Support Network for Financially Stressed Producers The USDA launched the Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network, an initiative designed to provide support to financially distressed farmers and ranchers across the nation. Through a series of Cooperative Agreements, this national network will connect distressed borrowers with individualized assistance to help them stabilize and regain financial footing. Network partners include Farm Aid, the University of Arkansas, the University of Minnesota, and others. “Having someone with experience in ag finance who helps producers work through financial difficulties can be the difference between losing the farm or prospering,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “The Distressed Borrowers Assistance Network underscores our dedication to farmers and ranchers receiving the tailored support they need.” He also says the initiative will address the immediate needs of distressed borrowers and provide comprehensive, wraparound services aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by financially distressed producers. Investments will build a support network for agriculture in the years ahead. ************************************************************************************* Dairy Consumption Good News and Bad News One of the more well-known consumer trends is a decline in per capita milk consumption. Americans drank 250 pounds per person in 1975, but consumption has steadily dropped over the decades, reaching only 130 pounds in 2022. However, Agricultural Economic Insights says the news isn’t all bad for dairy. Per capita consumption of yogurt and cheese has increased over the last few decades. Compared to 2000, per capita yogurt consumption has more than doubled, and cheese has also posted big gains, including American cheese up 28 percent since 2000, and mozzarella is up 40 percent. Yogurt and cheese have been the clear winners, while milk and ice cream have struggled. But AEI economists point out that different activity measures could lead to different conclusions about the magnitude of consumer shifts. While per capita consumption data is important, consumer prices and a larger population could also affect the dairy market.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 24, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. consumer confidence for September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT and is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Grain traders are staying attentive to the latest weather forecasts with several active threats to crop areas this week. Weather A small system continues to trek through the Midwest Tuesday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms and limited areas of heavy rain. An upper-level low is drifting south behind it, getting cut off from the jet stream that will produce showers for the South-Central states the next couple of days and guide a developing tropical system northward through the Gulf of Mexico later this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 23, 2024 |

USDA Finds Antibiotics in Sample of Animals Raised Antibiotic Free USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service released new guidelines last week aimed at strengthening documentation in support of environmental or animal-raising labeling claims on meat and poultry products after a recent study found antibiotics in livestock raised for the no-antibiotics market. USDA called for meat and poultry companies to do more to verify claims that the products are raised antibiotic-free. "The action FSIS is taking through the publishing of this guidance today addresses these concerning findings and makes clear that FSIS will take enforcement action against any establishments found to be making false or misleading negative antibiotic claims," the agency said. FSIS said animal-raising claims such as "raised without antibiotics," "grass-fed" and "free-range," and environment-related claims such as "raised using regenerative agriculture practices" and "climate-friendly" are voluntary marketing claims. ************************************************************************************* Threatened Port Strike a Concern for Shippers Shippers have less than two weeks to prepare contingency plans if workers strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports in the U.S. Composed of 85,000 members, the International Longshoremen’s Association is approaching the expiration of its master contract with the United States Maritime Alliance, or USMX, on September 30. The union’s chances of averting an Oct. 1 strike are dwindling as automation concerns and wage disagreements stall negotiations. ILA President Harold Daggett has been clear about the union’s intentions to strike and shared a strike mobilization plan earlier this month. A strike would have a major impact on operations and the flow of goods at several ports. The contract between the ILA and USMX covers ports in states such as Texas, Maine, New York, New Jersey and Florida, but a strike could spur disruptions for other regions and industries. West Coast, Canada and Mexico ports are seen as viable alternatives if a strike becomes reality. ************************************************************************************* General Mills, Grocery Giant Partnering on Regenerative Ag Project The owner of East Coast grocery chains Food Lion, Giant Food and Stop & Shop is investing alongside General Mills to expand regenerative agriculture for key ingredients such as wheat and oats in an effort to reduce emissions across their shared value chain. Agriculture Dive reports Ahold Delhaize USA and the Minneapolis-based maker of Cheerios and Betty Crocker products plan to co-invest in farms adopting regenerative agriculture practices, such as cover cropping and nutrient management techniques. No financial specifics were disclosed. The collaboration is focused on geographic growing regions where key ingredients like wheat and oats are sourced. The partnership is set to advance regenerative practices on more than 70,000 acres of farmland in Kansas and Canada’s Saskatchewan province by the end of 2025. This is Ahold Delhaize USA’s second foray into regenerative agriculture this year, following a pilot with Kellanova over the summer that supported the adoption of sustainable practices on North Carolina farms that grow wheat used to make Cheez-It crackers. ************************************************************************************* Salt Forcing Mid-Atlantic Farmers to Seek Alternative Crops More and more mid-Atlantic farmland is becoming inundated with salt, making crops like corn and soybeans ungrowable. Visible salt patches almost doubled across land along the Delmarva Peninsula, and over 20,000 acres of farmland were converted to marsh. The range of economic losses has been estimated between $39.4 million and $107.5 million annually under circumstances where farmers abandoned corn and soybeans altogether. Salt Meadow Cordgrass could be one answer. It often yields a bumper crop and can stop coastal erosion. According to the Good News Network, this crop from colonial times may be a future harvest in places like Delaware and New Jersey. The native species has been used for building insulation, as packing material, and as an additive to concrete, for paper, textiles, fodder for animals. The cordgrass is naturally free of seeds and weeds because of its strangulating root system, which makes it useful as a premium mulch for flower beds. ************************************************************************************* Society of St. Andrew Gleaning Unused Food for the Hungry The Society of St. Andrew announced last week that it has shared its billionth pound of food with people in need. Gleaners have shared one billion pounds of food that would have otherwise been wasted. Countless families have had food on their tables because of the hard work of gleaners, volunteers, and staff and the unwavering generosity of donors, farmers, and supporters. Each pound of food rescued speaks to the power we can have when we work together. SoSA’s mission is to build caring communities through sharing food, and each pound of produce tells a story of that connection. The Society of St. Andrew is a 45-year-old national nonprofit hunger-relief ministry that improves the environment by keeping good food out of landfills and feeds hungry people by sharing rescued fruits and vegetables with front-line feeding agencies, soup kitchens, shelters, food banks and food pantries. Across the country. More information is available online at EndHunger.org. ************************************************************************************* Drought Threatening Brazilian Coffee Crop As harvest wraps up for this year’s Brazilian coffee crop, drought is already threatening the 2025 harvest. The market is watching how the dry conditions, the worst drought in more than seventy years there, will affect the coffee plants. Prices are already at a 13-year high when adjusted for inflation, according to the International Coffee Organization. In August, the organization’s Composite Indicator Price, which combines the price of several types of green coffee beans, averaged $2.38 per pound, up nearly 55% from the same month a year ago. In part, prices are rising because of higher demand, particularly in Asia. But weather is also driving increases. Drought, frost and fire have damaged as much as one-fifth of arabica coffee producers’ growing areas in Brazil, according to CoBank. AP reports Vietnam, the world’s second largest coffee producer, is also experiencing heat and drought which could impact the crop there.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 23, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A front that draped itself across the Corn Belt over the weekend developed a low-pressure center along it that will move through Missouri on Monday and into Illinois overnight. The front will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms and potentially some severe weather and areas of heavy rain. We will also be watching the northwest Caribbean for tropical storm development.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 20, 2024 |

Fed Cuts Interest Rates, Some Relief for Agriculture Kicking off an expected loosening of U.S. monetary policy, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a percentage point on Wednesday. The move brings a larger-than-normal reduction in the cost of borrowing, which followed growing concern about the health of America’s job market. Farm Policy News says higher interest rates have hit the agricultural sector much harder than the rest of the U.S. economy. Interest rates during the last two years have been at a high point not seen in decades, not only increasing farmers operating costs but also helping to fuel fund managers’ record short positions in corn, soybeans, and wheat. Industry experts say the half-percent rate cut is a good start for easing the price pressures on agriculture. Policymakers see the Fed’s benchmark rate falling another half a percentage point at the end of 2024, another full point in 2025, and by a half-percentage point in 2026. *********************************************************************************** EWG Sues Tyson Over “Deceptive” Marketing The Environmental Working Groups filed a lawsuit against Tyson Foods, the second-largest meat company in the world. The suit accuses the company of making “false or misleading” marketing claims targeting D.C. consumers concerned about climate change. It targets Tyson’s claims that its industrial meat production operations will reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and that it produces “climate-smart” beef. The plaintiffs want to stop Tyson from continuing to make what they say is unsubstantiated environmental claims. The groups are calling for Tyson to retract its misleading statements and be held accountable. Despite 2022 annual revenues of over $53 billion, the groups say Tyson spent $50 million on GHG reduction practices, less than 0.1 percent of its revenue. “Consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions with their climate footprint in mind,” the groups said in a statement. “Tyson is trying to exploit this trend by making unsubstantiated claims about its sustainability practices.” *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Falls to Near Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output fell to its lowest level in three months while inventories rose slightly during the week that ended on September 13. The agency said production sank to an average of 1.049 million barrels a day, down from 1.09 million barrels a day the previous week. It’s also the lowest output since June 21. The Midwest, which produces the most ethanol of any region in the country, saw production drop to an average of 986,000 barrels a day from 1.019 million the week prior. That’s the lowest point in the region since June 7. That was the entirety of the losses as Gulf Coast production rose to an average of 28,000 barrels a day, East Coast output was unchanged at 12,000 barrels a day, and Rocky Mountain production was steady at 14,000 barrels. West Coast production remained at an average of 9,000 barrels per day. *********************************************************************************** Grants for Climate-Smart Sheep Producers The American Lamb Board is looking for 150 sheep producers to participate in its Climate Smart Sheep Program. Producers enrolled in the program will be paid up to $7,000 to develop and implement Climate Smart Sheep management practices and measure and report emissions and life cycle analysis. Possible practices include prescribed grazing, cover crop planting, range planting, tree or shrub enhancement, cross-fencing, and others. “Adding on-farm research and data collection in the form of Climate Smart grants not only extends the value of this research project, but it also provides sheep producers with resources and information they need to improve their livestock operations,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. “Sustainability is a top priority for the American Lamb Board.” The producer application can be found online at LambBoard.com. The application period ends on December 1, and producers will be notified by December 15. The program will begin on January 1, 2025. *********************************************************************************** BLM Announces Rangeland Stewardship and Innovation Award Winners At the Public Lands Council’s annual meeting, the Bureau of Land Management announced the winners of the 2024 Rangeland Stewardship and Rangeland Innovation awards. The two organizations have partnered for 19 years to honor BLM livestock grazing permittees and lessees who demonstrate exceptional management, collaboration, and communication that restores, conserves, or enhances public lands. The Rangeland Stewardship Award winner is Fitzgerald Ranch, Inc., of Plush, Oregon. The Rangeland Stewardship Award winner in the collaborative team category is the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance of Montana. The Rangeland Innovation Award winner in the Permittee Category is the Hansen family of PH Livestock in Wyoming. “Federal lands ranchers represent the most efficient and cost-effective way to maintain western rangeland, while still producing a wholesome product for consumers,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. “Grazing permittees partner with BLM to protect and build vital wildlife habitat and improve native plant life while reducing invasive grasses and preventing catastrophic wildfires.” *********************************************************************************** Stocks of Hams, Turkeys, and Butter are Higher Than 2023 The Fall and Winter holidays are still a few months out, but USDA says the essentials for holiday cooking have been accumulating in cold storage. Stocks of bone-in and boneless hams at the end of July totaled 139.2 million pounds, 1.2 percent above last year. Whole-hen turkey stocks totaled 109.4 million pounds at the end of July, an increase of 12.5 percent from the same time last year. That’s even though the 2024 turkey production is projected to be lower than last year. Butter in cold storage at the end of July was seven percent above 2023. The 2024 beef production forecast is adjusted slightly higher on reported slaughter data through early September. The third quarter of 2024 lamb and mutton import forecast was raised from 80 to 90 million pounds. The 2024 dairy forecasts for the average number of milk cows, milk per cow, and total milk production were lowered to 9.33 million head, 24,200 pounds, and 225.9 billion pounds, respectively.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 20, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets After a week in which the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by a half-percent, the only report on Friday's docket is USDA's Cattle on Feed report for September 1, due out at 2 p.m. CDT. Weather A front has moved into the Midwest on Friday with the southern portion of the front still stuck in the Southern Plains. Some areas of isolated showers will form near the front, especially late in the day. Another front will move through the Canadian Prairies and into the Northern Plains today with some showers as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 19, 2024 |

AM Radio Bill Moves to House Floor Efforts to keep AM radio in the dashboards of U.S. vehicles have taken a step forward in the House. The House Energy and Commerce Committee voted 45-2 to send the proposed AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act to the full House for a vote. “It’s been a stalwart of American prosperity and information sharing,” says Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC). “Having AM radio available is important to my constituents, especially during emergencies.” If passed by the full House, the proposed Act would require the Secretary of Transportation to issue a rule requiring access to AM broadcast stations in motor vehicles. If they don’t, automakers would get fined. The role of AM during natural disasters was cited by several lawmakers as they spoke during the bill’s markup, noting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency spent millions solidifying the Emergency Alert System with AM radio as the backbone of the EAS. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Calls for Swift Action Against Colombia The U.S. Dairy Export Council and National Milk Producers Federation expressed their strong disappointment with a preliminary ruling by Colombia’s government that unfairly targets U.S. dairy exporters. The move advances baseless claims that U.S. milk powder was unduly subsidized. The groups called on U.S. trade officials to take immediate action to challenge Colombia’s unjust decision and defend American dairy farmers and exporters. Based on the Colombian announcement, the preliminary findings call for an additional 4.86 percent tariff to be implemented on U.S. milk powder imports. That’s despite the fact that the Colombian government admitted that there are “many factors negatively affecting Colombia’s dairy sector.” Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF, says these findings show that Colombia does not respect its trade commitments. “Instead of working with us to resolve this issue in a mutually beneficial way, Colombia chose instead to move forward with a meritless investigation,” Doud says. *********************************************************************************** Public Lands Council Begins 56th Annual Meeting The Public Lands Council opened its 56th annual meeting in Grand Junction, Colorado on Tuesday. Ranchers, policymakers, administration officials, and industry stakeholders from across the country are meeting to discuss the most urgent issues facing the public lands ranching industry. Over the two days, federal grazing permittees will shape PLC policies for the next year and hear from influential decision-makers. This year’s meeting is taking place as grazing permittees are facing deadly wildfires and a host of other extreme weather conditions across the West. They’re also facing several federal rulemakings that seriously threaten ranchers’ abilities to reliably access public lands. “This is our best opportunity to address the issues that affect access and management of federal lands,” says Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director. “This year is a perfect example: grazing permittees are dealing with wildfires, increased regulatory burdens, and uncertainty from new uses of federal lands that are pressuring permittees.” *********************************************************************************** Potential World Wheat Supply Challenges Ahead Farm Policy News says dried-out soils in Russia and Ukraine are threatening wheat planting for harvest next year. It’s yet another challenge for farmers hit by the ongoing war and weather events. The two nations account for a quarter of the world’s wheat exports, but large chunks of land are too dry to plant crops. There’s still time for conditions to get better, but the challenges bring a risk of shortening the planting window for the winter crops that make up the bulk of their annual production. Industry experts say it’s an early reminder of the possibility of risks to the wheat supply next year. World wheat prices have begun creeping upward in recent weeks, due in part to concerns about the Black Sea supply of wheat. The output in Ukraine is about a third below the pre-war levels, and Russia’s latest crop shrank 10 percent because of unfavorable weather. *********************************************************************************** Judge Dismisses Price-Fixing Suit A judge in Missouri dismissed a lawsuit accusing agricultural giants like Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, and others of price fixing. The suit accused the companies of conspiring with wholesalers and retail outlets to fix prices for seeds and crop protection chemicals, forcing farmers to pay higher prices. A St. Louis-based judge says that the farmers and other plaintiffs failed to present sufficient allegations that the companies had violated U.S. antitrust laws. The plaintiffs said the companies schemed to collectively boycott electronic “crop inputs” platforms, depriving farmers and other purchasers of the ability to make effective cost comparisons for key agricultural materials. The judge said the plaintiffs’ accusations did not rebut the companies’ claims that their practices served legitimate business purposes. She faulted the plaintiffs for advancing “mere generalizations” in their lawsuit. Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, and BASF all welcomed the court’s ruling in separate statements. All of the defendants denied any wrongdoing. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Depends on Reliable Rail Service Growth Energy highlighted many issues currently plaguing the nation’s rail service that has resulted in delayed shipments, longer wait times, and higher costs for American ethanol producers. The group’s Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Chris Bliley, testified to the scale of the problem before the Surface Transportation Board. “With drivers facing high fuel prices and ethanol is consistently trading significantly less than unfinished gasoline, at no other time has the need for timely and efficient ethanol rail service been more important,” he said. Data posted by the STB shows that in 2022, the average dwell time for ethanol train units increased, average rail speed decreased, and the average number of ethanol-loaded cars not moved increased, all negative trends that contribute to added costs and other negative consequences through the entire biofuel supply chain. “The ethanol industry ships almost 70 percent of what it produces via rail,” he added.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 19, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Early Thursday, markets are fresh off Wednesday's half-percent rate cut from the Federal Reserve. USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales in August and the U.S. index of leading indicators are both out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A storm system moving through the Canadian Prairies continues showers there and is pushing a front into Minnesota on Thursday. The northern half of the front will be the most active today, with scattered showers and thunderstorms down through northern Missouri. The southern half of the front will be stuck across the Central and Southern Plains, but it may also produce some showers and storms. Severe weather will be possible in the storms, especially north.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 18, 2024 |

Trade Policy Shifts Impact on U.S. Agriculture Agricultural economists from North Dakota State University have examined the proposed trade policies of the two presidential candidates and one proposal being floated in Congress. The NDSU experts laid out the potential losses to soybean, corn, wheat, and beef exports under different scenarios. Under the three proposed trade policy scenarios, North Dakota State estimates substantial export losses for U.S. soybeans, corn, beef, and wheat. Each scenario assumes the U.S. government imposes tariffs on goods from China and other countries, which would provoke retaliatory measures against American exports. Under a worst-case scenario, projected U.S. ag exports could decrease by $15.8 billion for soybeans, $4.4 billion for corn, $2.5 billion for wheat, and $2.3 billion for beef. These projected trade losses pose significant challenges, especially in the Midwest, which relies heavily on exporting these critical commodities to foreign markets. Beef states like Kansas, Texas, and Nebraska would also be hit hard financially. ********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Institute Wants More from Rail Industry The Fertilizer Institute testified before the Surface Transportation Board and emphasized the ongoing need for the freight rail industry to shift its focus toward customer service and growth. The fertilizer industry has long relied on rail service for the efficient and safe transport of its products but has struggled with declining service quality, increasing rates, and a lack of attention to customer needs. “The fertilizer industry is heavily reliant on rail and cannot afford to see continued stagnation in freight rail service,” says TFI vice president of government affairs Ryan Bowley. He also pointed to data showing that while rail employment has dropped and carloads have declined, rail rates have surged. Between 2005 and 2017, rates for transporting critical farm inputs like anhydrous ammonia increased by more than 200 percent. These price hikes and inconsistent service make it difficult for fertilizer companies to meet the delivery demands of U.S. farmers. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Challenges EPA Emissions Standards Growth Energy filed a brief in the D.C. Court of Appeals in a case challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later vehicles. It’s also known as the tailpipe emissions rule and applies to Light Duty and Medium Duty vehicles. In the brief, Growth Energy noted that EPA’s rule was a missed opportunity to recognize the positive impact biofuels can have on reducing tailpipe emissions. “As Congress recognized when enacting the Renewable Fuel Standard, biofuels offer numerous climate and other benefits,” Growth Energy said in the brief. “When compared with petroleum, corn ethanol emits only half the greenhouse gasses and cellulosic ethanol emits even less.” The group also says ethanol and other biofuels emit less particulate matter and other pollutants harmful to human health. “All these benefits are available right now, all while enhancing U.S. energy security and supporting U.S. jobs,” the group added. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases September Feed and Wheat Outlooks This month’s 2024-2025 U.S. coarse grains outlook is for marginally higher supplies and slightly tighter stocks. A slight increase in corn yields isn’t enough to offset a reduction in beginning stocks driven by strengthening fourth-quarter demand in 2023-2024. For sorghum, higher yields lift the supply forecast and are expected to spur export volumes. Corn and sorghum prices are at parity, with both reduced a dime to $4.10 a bushel. Barley supplies are slightly lower on smaller imports, and there are no changes to the oats supply. In wheat, the European Union yield is forecast at a six-year low, estimated at 124 million metric tons, down to its lowest level since 2018-2019. U.S. wheat production for 2024-2025 is unchanged this month and remains at 1.982 billion bushels, up nine percent from last year. U.S. wheat exports for the current marketing year are unchanged at 825 million bushels with no adjustments in any classes. *********************************************************************************** As Farm Bill Stays in Limbo, Lawmakers Considering Farm Aid Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, a critic of Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow, told more than 250 people that he had an optimistic moment after speaking with her on the Senate floor. He points out that Stabenow and other Committee leaders are recognizing just how dire the economic situation is for U.S. farmers and that they can’t wait for Congress to reach an agreement on a five-year farm bill. Along with potentially boosting commodity programs, Moran says Stabenow is trying to find ways to accelerate payments. Currently, payments in the ARC and PLC programs are always a year after harvest. Moran said his agricultural staff suggests that there is growing sentiment on the House side to get something done. House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott says farmers he met with asked Congress to consider a two-year ad hoc package that would bolster the safety net for the 2024 and 2025 crop years. *********************************************************************************** Certified Angus Beef Awards 26 Scholarships Certified Angus Beef’s Colvin Scholarship Fund achieved a milestone by awarding a record-breaking $100,000 in scholarships to 26 students. With increased scholarships presented, more students than ever are being empowered to pursue careers that advance the beef industry. Scholarship recipients are each actively pursuing a career in production agriculture, industry research, or other agricultural endeavors. Since its inception 25 years ago, the Colvin Scholarship Fund has provided 176 scholarships totaling $633,500 to deserving students. ”It’s inspiring to see students who truly embody what the Colvin Scholarship Fund stands for,” says Danielle Matter, CAB director of brand experience and education. “They’re passionate, articulate, and hardworking, and we’re humbled to support them and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make.” The top recipients in each category were awarded $7,500 scholarships. CAB also says the future leaders exemplify a strong commitment and passion for the beef industry, making them worthy brand ambassadors.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 18, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, including ethanol production. The Federal Reserve's announcement on interest rates follows at 1 p.m. and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is set for 2 p.m. Weather A strong storm system has developed in the Northern Plains, bringing heavy rain and some strong winds to Montana with waves of scattered showers moving north into the Canadian Prairies for Wednesday. The front to the storm may remain active with showers and thunderstorms down the Plains as well while it remains hot east of the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 17, 2024 |

Mississippi River Levels Falling Again For the third consecutive year, Mississippi River water levels are falling again, making shipping goods difficult. Farm Policy News says the low levels are forcing barge companies to put limits on how much cargo they can carry and cutting into farm profits. It was only two months ago that much of the river was above flood stage north of St. Louis. As river levels fell steadily since then, barge companies had to limit the soybeans, grains, and other cargo they carry to prevent barges from getting stuck, which means less profits for farmers. Approximately 60 percent of all U.S. grain exports are taken by barge down the Mississippi to New Orleans, where the corn, soybeans, and wheat get stored and then transferred for shipment to other countries. It’s an efficient way to move crops. A group of 15 barges lashed together carries as much cargo as about 1,000 trucks. ********************************************************************************** Cracks Showing in the Farm Bill Logjam While the 2024 Farm Bill has been stalled for multiple months, the legislative logjam is showing a few signs of breaking after key ag groups took to Capitol Hill last week to share the economic reality facing farmers and ranchers. In a letter last week to House Ag Committee Democrats, Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) said, “We all know that Congress needs pressure to act. That’s why Chairman Thompson, Chairwoman Stabenow, Ranking Member Boozman, and I agree that we are better off without another extension at this point.” After he met with farmers, Scott said if it looks like Congress won’t be able to pass a farm bill, they asked him if Congress would consider doing a two-year ad hoc package that would bolster the safety net for the 2024 and 2025 crop years. “Farmers need the certainty and support, and we need to step up to this challenge,” Scott added. *********************************************************************************** Poultry Group Wants More Time on Salmonella Changes After recent unsatisfactory public meetings and a growing series of unanswered questions, the National Chicken Council requested a 90-day extension to the comment period for FSIS’ proposed Salmonella Framework. The Council wants more time to properly analyze the proposal and provide more meaningful comments. “Unfortunately, the two webinars that the Food Safety and Inspection Service provided for constituents to ask questions failed to provide meaningful insights or clarification on most of the questions asked by participants,” says Dr. Ashley Peterson, senior vice president of science and regulatory affairs for the NCC. “Most clarifying and technical questions went unanswered during the presentations.” In sum, Peterson says there are more questions than answers at this point. “The lack of clarity around many aspects of the proposal directly impedes NCC’s and our members’ ability to meaningfully comment on the proposal,” she added. “The webinars showed us FSIS has limited guidance to offer the industry.” *********************************************************************************** Moms Flood Capitol Hill to Oppose EATS Act Moms for America, a Missouri-based national conservative advocacy group that focuses on pro-family issues, went to Capitol Hill last week to discuss their opposition to the EATS Act. They say House Bill 4417 and Senate Bill 209 would “hand American pork and other production over to the Chinese multi-national conglomerates like Smithfield and the global meat cartel.” The Moms pointed out that the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppressions Act is supported by the National Pork Producers Council and their largest member, Smithfield, who owns one of every six sows in America, and whose purchase was financed by the Chinese Communist Party. The group opposes the EATS Act because it would “upend” state’s rights and cede greater control of America’s agriculture over to China. “Smithfield’s EATS Act is the greatest threat to food safety and security that Moms for America has seen in the last half a century,” says Moms’ President Kimberly Fletcher. *********************************************************************************** ALB Accepting Cooperative Funding Program Applications The American Lamb Board allocates funds through the Cooperative Funding Program for local sheep producer groups, lamb suppliers, and direct marketers. The program helps cost-share marketing efforts that align with ALB’s mission to grow awareness and demand for American Lamb. Applications can be submitted now through September 30. “The Cooperative Funding Program is a fantastic opportunity to help producers, suppliers, and direct marketers share information and resources about the advantages of American lamb with consumers, retailers, and the food service industry,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. “The program was designed to help cost-share marketing and promotion campaigns that reach consumers at the local level.” Producers can apply for funding to reach consumers, chefs, or retailers through marketing and promotional projects designed to build awareness and grow demand for American lamb. Additionally, suppliers like direct marketers can also apply to promote American Lamb products in the retail or food service sector. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Taking Neil Dierks Scholarship Applications The National Pork Industry Foundation is accepting applications for the Neil Dierks Scholarship, which honors Neil Dierks, the former longtime CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, and his contributions to the industry. The $5,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student enrolled in a land-grant university and pursuing a field of study that directly supports the pork industry. “We are honored to continue this scholarship in recognition of Neil’s exceptional legacy,” says Iowa producer Dwight Mogler, a member of the Foundation’s Board. “Neil’s unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of pork industry leaders was truly inspiring.” The Foundation is committed to carrying his vision forward by empowering students who are passionate about the future of the industry. Applications are due by December 31, 2024. The winner will be announced at the National Pork Industry Forum March 12-14, 2025. For more information or the application requirements, go to nppc.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 17, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for August is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by U.S. industrial production in August at 8:15 a.m. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting and, according to CNBC.com, traders are expecting either a quarter-percent or half-percent reduction in the current federal funds rate range of 5.00% to 5.50%. Weather A small tropical low that was never named continues in the Mid-Atlantic with some showers for Tuesday. A bigger storm system is developing in the Northern Plains, and is likely to produce widespread areas of showers and thunderstorms across the Plains and into the Canadian Prairies, some of which may be severe Tuesday afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 16, 2024 |

Pork Producers Talk Farm Bill, Prop 12 During Fly-In Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Senator John Boozman (R-AR) met with 120 pork farmers at the National Pork Producers Council’s Fall Legislative Action Conference. They discussed prospects for a 2024 Farm Bill and a federal solution to California’s Prop 12. NPPC said that the Prop 12 initiative imposes serious financial burdens on pork producers, raising food prices for consumers, and sets a dangerous precedent by enabling each state to develop differing regulations on out-of-state producers. Californians are experiencing less pork and higher costs. Vilsack emphasized those higher prices make it harder to include pork products in nutrition programs for the hungry. Boozman, the ranking member of the Senate Ag Committee, said he remains optimistic that a farm bill will get passed this year. To help with the education, NPPC hosted a pop-up food truck on Capitol Hill offering maple bacon donuts and information on the threat of Prop 12 and similar laws. *********************************************************************************** FCA Board Gets Quarterly Update on the Ag Economy The latest consumer price index data indicates a slowdown in inflation, which has dropped below three percent for the first time since 2021. The Federal Reserve is expected to begin cutting interest rates this month, while longer-term interest rates have been falling for weeks. Crop yields are expected to be high this fall, putting downward pressure on prices. Corn and soybean futures have fallen over 30 percent in the past 18 months. While the pressure is on crop producers, livestock producers are benefiting from lower feed prices and higher product prices, improving their 2024 profitability. Strong financial positions from high incomes in 2021 and 2022 have provided a cushion for farmers heading into a more challenging business environment. However, weak crop margins are set to further erode farm sector income this year. Portfolio growth in the System showed solid financial results with modest growth in the first half of 2024. *********************************************************************************** Eastern Ports Face Strike Prospects The bulk exports of soybeans and other agricultural products from the East Coast would not be directly impacted by any potential strike or lockout if an agreement is not achieved between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance. However, containerized exports of soybeans and other agricultural products would be impacted. There are several ports along the East Coast. Norfolk, Virginia, was the busiest in 2023, exporting over 1.6 million metric tons of soybeans. To provide some perspective, the Mississippi Gulf Region near New Orleans is the number one export region for soybeans, exporting 27 million metric tons from the region in 2023. “We are starting to see agricultural exporters explore other routes like the West Coast, which will most likely mean at a higher cost and longer transit times,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook) of the Soy Transportation Council. “This will be one more cost intrusion into the supply chain.” *********************************************************************************** NCC Urges AMS to Withdraw “Fair and Competitive Markets” Proposed Rule The National Chicken Council strongly urged USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service to withdraw its proposed rule, “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets. The group says the rule represents an impermissible attempt to make an end-run around established judicial precedent for requiring a showing of injury to competition to sue and win under Section 202 of the Packers and Stockyards Act. “Worse than a solution in search of a problem, the proposed rule would cause widespread confusion and inflict staggering costs on the meat and poultry industries, ultimately to the detriment of American consumers,” says NCC Interim President Gary Kushner. NCC highlighted the many flaws associated with this rule in detailed comments to the ASF, including the fact that it would try to fundamentally alter the nature of PSA Section 202 violations in a manner that exceeds the authority of AMS. “This proposed rule is ill-advised and unconstitutionally vague,” Kushner added. ********************************************************************************** Leases Expected to Remain Steady or Modestly Decrease As farmers wrap up the current crop year and begin planning for 2025, one of the more crucial first steps in preparing for a successful crop season is securing farm leasing arrangements. In the Midwest, farm lease negotiations typically begin in August and ramp up as fall sets in. Tenants often prefer to finalize lease terms early to facilitate timely purchases of inputs and to start field operations promptly after harvest. While cash rental rates have gradually risen in recent years, Farmers National Company says the current market environment suggests uncertainty is on the horizon. As commodity prices and farm income are expected to al, FNC anticipates that most leases for 2025 will either remain steady or see a modest decrease. That’s assuming they were set at market rates in 2024. When a tenant seeks a rent reduction, FNC says incorporation of flex or bonus provisions can be a strategic compromise. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Sales Climb Higher The USDA says wheat sales through the week ending on September 5 came in at 4745,000 metric tons, up 40 percent from the previous week and 11 percent over the prior four-week average. Taiwan was the top buyer at 105,400 tons. Wheat exports for the week totaled 542,000 tons, up 15 percent week over week. Corn sales to overseas buyers, as the marketing year ended, were reported at 665,000 metric tons. Mexico was the biggest buyer, purchasing 180,300 tons. Accumulated exports for the 2023-2024 marketing year ended at 54.3 million metric tons, up 38 percent year over year. Soybean sales in the new marketing year totaled 1.47 million metric tons. China was the top buyer at 962,6000 tons. Soybean exports ended the marketing year at 44.5 million metric tons, 15 percent below the prior year. The 2024-2025 marketing year for both corn and soybeans started on September 1.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 16, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will monitor the latest weather forecasts from around the world. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather The remnants of Francine in the Delta and a new tropical low off the coast of the Carolinas are producing showers in the Southeast for Monday. A non-tropical low moving through the West is producing additional showers in the Plains early Monday as well. Both areas will see showers continuing throughout the day while temperatures remain well above normal for this time of year.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 13, 2024 |

Corn Production Down, Soybeans and Cotton Higher Corn production is down, while soybean and cotton production will be higher than in 2023. The USDA Crop Production Report says corn production is one percent below last year, forecast at 15.2 billion bushels. The average corn yield is predicted to be 183.6 bushels an acre, up 0.5 percent from last month and 6.3 bushels over last year. Soybean production will be 10 percent above 2023 with a forecast of 4.59 billion bushels. Soybean yields are expected to be 53.2 bushels an acre, unchanged from last month, and 2.6 bushels above 2023. Cotton Production is up 20 percent from 2023 at 14.5 million 480-pound bales. Yield is expected to reach 807 pounds per harvested acre, 33 pounds below last month’s forecast and 92 pounds below 2023. The total planted area for corn is estimated at 90.7 million acres, soybeans are estimated at 87.1 million acres, and cotton is at 11.2 million acres. *********************************************************************************** Banks Urged to Stop Financing Livestock Production Over 100 climate groups are pressuring JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and other private banks to stop financing global meat and dairy companies. Agriculture Dive Dot Com says the institutions’ lending activities undermine their environmental commitments. An open letter from groups led by Friends of the Earth to some of the world’s biggest banks calls for a halt on any new financing that expands industrial livestock production and to add requirements that meat, dairy, and feed clients disclose their climate action plans. The letter calls out the banks by name for supporting the world’s biggest meat, dairy, and animal feed producers like JBS, Tyson Foods, and others. While food companies are a small part of the banks’ overall lending portfolios, the groups say they have a much bigger impact on the institutions’ environmental footprints. The letter says Increased lending has let the world’s biggest emitters grow their operations and emissions. *********************************************************************************** Growers Critical of Tariff Announcements The National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association expressed frustration with a recently released recommendation from the Department of Commerce. The Department is recommending an imposition of preliminary countervailing duty rates on imports of the herbicide 2-4D. The decision comes at the behest of domestic herbicide producer Corteva, who filed a petition earlier this year calling for antidumping and countervailing duties on imports of the herbicide from certain foreign suppliers. Farmers have said that their demand exceeds the domestic supply of the product, and foreign sources help to fill the gap. “Access to this herbicide is critical for corn growers,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “We would welcome all ideas from Corteva on how to ensure that this herbicide is available and affordable for American growers.” Josh Gackle, president of the ASA, says the decision to raise duties on imports is disappointing to soybean growers nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Group Want Dairy Industry Protection Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led a bipartisan group of colleagues in calling on the administration to protect America’s dairy industry. They want to ensure that plant-based imitation products are not equated in upcoming dietary guideline changes. The officials are asking the Department of Health and Human Services and USDA to carefully consider any changes to the upcoming Dietary Guidelines for Americans that could add plant-based imitation products into the dairy category despite their nutritional differences. In a letter, the senators say existing research has shown that plant-based alternatives are indeed not nutritionally equivalent to dairy. Their concerns are that adding imitation products to the dairy category equates the products nutritionally, despite imitations often containing lower protein and added sugars. “As you consider potential DGA updates that may pertain to dairy, please ensure sound scientific evidence to support any statements which nutritionally equate plant-based alternatives with real dairy,” the letter also says. ********************************************************************************** USDA Releases September WASDE Report The USDA released its September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report that says this month’s 2024-2025 corn outlook is for smaller supplies and a modest decline in ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks are 55 million bushels lower based on increases in exports and corn used for ethanol for 2023-2024. The season-average corn price received by producers was lowered ten cents to $4.10 per bushel. U.S. soybean supply and use changes for 2024-2025 include lower beginning stocks, production, and ending stocks. Lower beginning stocks reflect a slight increase in crush during the prior marketing year. Ending stocks are predicted to be at 550 million bushels, down 10 million from last month. The U.S. season-average price for soybeans is unchanged from the previous forecast at $10.80 per bushel. The 2024-2025 U.S. wheat outlook is quiet relative to last month. The projected season-average farm price for wheat remains steady at $5.70 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Tax Credit Coming by January Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says he’s confident that a clean fuels tax credit program set to take effect in 2025 will be finalized by the end of the Biden administration in January. Farm Policy News says an April guidance for the SAF tax credit disappointed ethanol producers by requiring corn farmers to bundle a set of climate-friendly farming practices that meant little to no ethanol would qualify. Vilsack says his agency is hoping to make more feedstocks and individual farming practices eligible for the credit and is working with the energy and transportation departments on how to do so. The Treasury Department is coming under pressure from some lawmakers to limit the eligibility for the new clean fuels tax credit to fuels made from feedstocks sourced in the United States. Vilsack says the right answer in writing the regulations was to ensure feedstocks meet expectations through inspections and certifications.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 13, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early September is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Friday. Grain traders will continue to watch the latest forecasts, especially for South America and the Black Sea region. Weather The remnants to what was Hurricane Francine continue to spin up near the Bootheel of Missouri Friday morning, producing scattered showers through the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. Some heavier rainfall will be possible across the Southeast due to enhanced, slow-moving thunderstorms. A system continues to produce scattered showers in the Canadian Prairies, particularly in Alberta. Its cold front will produce more showers in the Dakotas into Nebraska as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 12, 2024 |

U.S. Tractor Sales Increase Slightly in August Sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 4.8 percent in August 2024 compared to the same month last year. New data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says U.S. sales also increased 5.2 percent year-to-date. Total U.S. ag tractor sales decreased 19.4 percent compared to 2023, while combine sales dipped 19.6 percent. “While the increase in four-wheel-drive tractors is modest, it’s indicative of the industry’s resilience and the ongoing need for agricultural equipment,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “The decline in the overall tractor market highlights the urgent need for Congress to pass a robust farm bill to support rural America and our agricultural community.” Canadian sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 29.4 percent in August compared to last year and are up 18.1 percent year-to-date. Total Canadian ag tractor sales fell 26 percent compared to last year, while total combine sales dropped 36.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** House Passes Bill to Protect U.S. Farmland The House of Representatives passed the “Protecting U.S. Farmland from Foreign Adversaries Act” on Wednesday. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced a companion bill in the Senate. The legislation would increase scrutiny of foreign bids to purchase U.S. farmland, particularly from adversaries like China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. It would add the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States and include the secretary on future transactions involving agricultural land, biotech, product transportation, storage, and processing. It would authorize the Secretary to report agricultural land transactions involving foreign persons from China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. “Chinese ownership of American farmland increased more than 20-fold in the past decade,” Braun says. The amount of American soil in the hands of adversaries will only rise if we don’t implement these restrictions and oversight.” Fourteen other senators also signed on to the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for 2025 Clean Fuels Conference Registration is now open for the 2025 Clean Fuels Conference, the must-attend event for the biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel industries. Hosted by Clean Fuels Alliance America, it takes place January 20-23, 2025, in San Diego, California. This year’s theme is “Accelerate,” which captures the rapid growth and transformative progress of the clean fuels industry. In addition to exhibitors and multiple networking events, the conference agenda offers educational sessions designed to enhance industry knowledge and equip participants for success in an ever-evolving landscape. “With the clean fuels industry accelerating at an unprecedented pace, this conference is crucial for anyone involved in shaping the future of heavy-duty transportation,” says Donnell Rehagen, CEO of Clean Fuels Alliance America. The conference will feature keynote presentations by Lucas Lentsch, CEO of the United Soybean Board, Beth Whited, president of Union Pacific, and Dr. Steven Cliff of the California Air Resources Board, among others. *********************************************************************************** Groups Support ESA Amendments Act The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council announced strong support for the ESA Amendments Act of 2024. This legislation would reform the Endangered Species Act to provide more timely conservation efforts on America’s rangeland. “For too long, the Endangered Species Act has been weaponized to list species under non-science-based criteria to the detriment of real conservation,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Farmers and ranchers have witnessed the harm that comes from politically-motivated species listings and the dangers that come from recovered predators that become a direct threat to producers’ personal safety and economic success.” Drovers also says this bill will make the ESA a real tool for conservation, foster transparency and accountability, and ensure that the environmental contributions from farmers and ranchers are properly recognized. As the ESA has had its scope widened over the years, it is now coming in direct conflict with established science on wildlife conservation. ********************************************************************************** Low South American River Levels Hindering Crop Shipments While it’s not catastrophic in terms of South American export levels, rivers have reached low enough levels to hinder shipments of grain and oilseeds. The University of Illinois Farm Policy News says South America is not in its peak trading season. Record drought in the Amazon and lower-than-usual rainfall have sent water levels dropping rapidly and hindered barges carrying grains for export. Even South America’s Paraguay River, a key shipping lane for grains, has hit a record low near Paraguay’s capital. In fact, the Paraguay River has dropped so low it’s broken the previous record low level set in October 2021. The northern section of the Paraguay waterway is so low that navigation has practically come to a standstill. Brazil has also been hit by a drought that’s begun to threaten the country’s coffee and soybean crops. That’s after wildfires in Brazil scarred the sugar cane fields. *********************************************************************************** Amp America’s Dairy Projects Reduce Two Million Tons of CO2 Amp Americas, a leading dairy methane capture and renewable gas company, announced that its projects have reduced more than two million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions since 2012. That’s equal to the emissions of more than five natural gas-fired power plants in one year. Amp Americas partners with dairy farmers throughout the United States on projects that reduce methane emissions from dairy waste. Amp provides an immediate, measurable, and at-scale solution to methane emissions by capturing methane on dairy farms that would otherwise get released into the atmosphere. Dairy Renewable Natural Gas also reduces the cost of managing dairy waste and produces digestate that can be used as a fertilizer. “After 12 years, two million metric tons is a milestone we’re proud of, especially since there are no other near-term solutions that can tackle methane emissions like our RNG projects can,” says Grant Zimmerman, CEO of Amp Americas.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 12, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for August and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report will be out at 11 a.m. followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. A report on the August federal budget will be out at 1 p.m. Weather As remnants of Hurricane Francine push north, winds will weaken around the center of the storm but scattered, heavy rain showers are still likely for portions of the Southern Delta throughout the day. Farther east, across the Deep South, severe storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, and few brief tornadoes are possible. A low-pressure system in the Northern Plains will also provide a risk for scattered showers and a few severe storms to the western Dakotas and eastern Montana.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 11, 2024 |

Two Parties Present Contrasting Ag Policy Views In a lead-up to Tuesday night’s presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, the agricultural positions of the two leading political parties were displayed in contrast during a forum at the National Press Club. Speaking for the Democrats, former Biden Administration EPA Senior Advisor Tom Snyder says farmers lost $29 billion in exports during the trade war in 2018 and 2019. “The four years of the Trump presidency was defined by chaos and uncertainty for the farm economy, and a second term would be even more severe,” Snyder added. The Trump campaign was represented by Kip Tom, a farmer and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture under President Trump. Tom said the Biden-Harris administration has imposed $1.6 trillion in new regulations that are costing the American economy and costing farmers. Hosted by the Farm Foundation, the event touched on a wide range of issues, including trade, the farm bill, tax policy, China, climate-smart programs and nutrition. ************************************************************************************************************** USDA Launches Interactive Census of Ag Maps The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) launched a collection of interactive maps to allow data users to access key Census of Agriculture information. The newly redesigned Ag Census Web Maps application offers the public access to maps and accompanying data to help visualize, download and analyze Census of Agriculture data down to the county level. The app parses maps and statistics from the 2022 census across a number of categories including crops, producers and economics. NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons says it allows customizable ways to access the Census of Agriculture data in a way no other product can. He says for example, a user can show average value of agricultural products sold per farm, or view a county’s data for a given category. In preparation for the 2027 Census of Ag, NASS is already asking for content change suggestions and for new producers who did not receive a 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaire last year to sign up to be counted. Both forms can be found at nass.usda.gov. ************************************************************************************************************** Washington Sees Coordinated Push for Farm Bill Passage In an unusual move, commodity groups are coordinating efforts in bringing producers and other ag stakeholders to Washington, DC in an effort to get a new Farm Bill passed before the end of 2024. Agri-Pulse reports that such a cross-commodity initiative has not been put into practice since farmers pushed for what became the 2002 Farm Bill. Iowa banker Caleb Hopkins, vice chairman of the Ag and Rural Bankers Committee with the American Bankers Association, was reported by Politico as saying, “If the farm bill is not passed this year, agricultural producers will struggle to obtain credit during the 2025 production year. That will come as a blow to farmers who have experienced low commodity prices and high input costs.” Lawmakers, who have just returned from recess, are working on must-pass legislation to keep the government open past September 30. That is also the day the one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill is set to expire. ************************************************************************************************************** Congressional Leaders Working to Pass Farm Bill in this Congress With Congress now back from its August recess, leaders in both parties are saying they will resume talks to get a Farm Bill passed before the end of the year, even if it happens during a lame duck session. Senate Agriculture chairwoman Debbie Stabenow told Successful Farming she would do “everything in my power to pass a farm bill” this year. Farm-state lawmakers have been deadlocked for weeks over SNAP funding, higher crop subsidy spending, and climate mitigation. Stabenow has proposed an increase of at least 5% in reference prices, no cut in SNAP funding, and keeping the guardrails on climate funding, but has yet to release a full bill text. Meanwhile, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota told Brownfield Ag News he is confident a new Farm Bill will get across the finish line after the November election. Emmer said House Ag Committee chair GT Thompson is ready to bring his version to the House floor. ************************************************************************************************************** USDA and National Farmers Union to Collaborate on Strengthening Local FSA Operations The National Farmers Union (NFU) and the USDA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to address staffing levels and improve customer service at USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) county-level offices. NFU and USDA say they will work together to gather feedback on the experiences of family farmers and ranchers when interacting with FSA staff and the programs they deliver. By hosting listening sessions in local communities, NFU says it will provide a platform for farmers to share their concerns and ideas for improvement. “As an agency, our employees are our greatest resource, and the agricultural producers we serve are our top priority,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m extremely pleased to enter into this MOU with NFU. Our hope is that the information gathered through this MOU can be used to guide better investment in the capacity of our local offices.” *************************************************************************************************************** Ag Student Donates Steer Proceeds to Farm Fire Victims The future of farming appears to be in good hands after a recent auction in Wisconsin. During the 2024 Clark County Fair in Neillsville, Anna Kayhart, an agricultural education student at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, exhibited her Grand Champion Dairy Market Steer. On Saturday August 10th, the morning of the animal market sale, a fire destroyed the milking barn of Clark County dairy farmers Jeremy and Bethany Oberholtzer. Later that day at the sale, the auctioneer announced that selfless Anna had decided all proceeds from her Grand Champion Dairy Steer would be donated to the Oberholtzers to help with rebuilding their dairy facility. Anna’s 1408-pound steer was purchased by Lynn Dairy in Granton, Wisconsin for a bid of $15.75 per pound, raising over $22,000.00 for the Oberholtzer’s farm recovery. Kayhart is also the recipient of a Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation Premier Scholarship Award.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 11, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for August is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. and includes ethanol production. Weather Hurricane Francine is expected to make landfall as a Category 2 hurricane in southern Louisiana later today and provide significant, heavy rainfall to southern areas of the Southern Delta. After making landfall, the storm will quickly lose strength but still provide areas of heavy rainfall as it heads north, following the Mississippi River.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 10, 2024 |

Food Price Index Slightly Lower in August The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization says its Food Price Index stood at 120.7 points in August, down marginally from July. Decreases in the price indexes for sugar, meat, and cereals outweighed increases for those in vegetable oils and dairy products. The Food Price Index was 1.1 percent lower than August 2023 and 25 percent below the 160.3 points reached in March 2022. The Cereal Price Index averaged 110.1 points in August, down 0.6 points from July and 15 points below last year. The Sugar Price Index had the biggest drop, down almost six points from July to 113.9 points, 34 points lower than August 2023. The Dairy Price Index had the biggest jump, rising 2.8 points from July to 130.6 points, 16 points above last year. The Vegetable Oil Price Index hit 136 points, one point higher than in July, while the Meat Index was up 0.9 points to 119.5. *********************************************************************************** Over 300 Groups Call on Congress for a Robust Farm Bill Drawing attention to the worsening economic conditions impacting the nation’s food growers, over 300 national and state groups, like the National Corn Growers Association, sent a letter to congressional leaders about the need for a new farm bill. Signatories stressed the significant need for a new bill before the end of 2024. “It’s critical that Congress pass a new farm bill that strengthens the safety net as many producers are facing multiple years of not being profitable, and this is causing their overall financial situation to deteriorate,” the letter says. “Some will have challenges as they seek operating credit for the 2025 crop year.” As the farm bill delays continued, producers across the country have faced headwinds ranging from extreme weather to high input costs and uncertain global demand to supply chain disruptions. Farmers and their allies say these challenges exposed areas of the farm bill that need to be strengthened. ************************************************************************************ Vietnam Trade Mission Underway Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City to launch a USDA-sponsored agribusiness trade mission. Taylor’s delegation includes officials from 60 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations and nine state departments of agriculture seeking to develop and expand business opportunities with importers in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian Countries. “I’m honored to lead this delegation as we celebrate the first anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Taylor says. “Agriculture plays a huge role in our relationship with Vietnam, which is now our tenth-largest export market for agricultural and food products.” In addition to Vietnamese customers, members will meet with businesses from Burma, Cambodia, and Thailand. U.S. agricultural and related product exports to Vietnam totaled almost $3.5 billion in 2023 and are recognized by Vietnamese consumers, importers, and retailers for their reliability, quality, and sustainability. Fresh fruit, beef, and pork are in high demand. *********************************************************************************** 2024 Cash Rents Hit Some Record High Levels Illinois farmers are paying record-high cash rents this year, and they aren’t the only ones. USDA’s annual cash rent survey puts Illinois’ average at $269 per acre for non-irrigated cropland. It’s the third consecutive record-breaking year. A new record high was established in 2022 after a seven-year slump. Last year, the 2022 statewide average cash rent was topped by $16 an acre, and this year, despite some ideas that it might stay steady or decline, the price rose another ten bucks. Illinois does have some of the highest county-wide cash rent averages in the Midwest, but not the highest. On average, the USDA Cash Rent Survey says Iowa farmers pay $276 an acre. However, ten Illinois counties have average cash rents above Iowa’s highest county-wide rate of $323 in Sioux County, located in Northwest Iowa. At least ten Illinois counties spreading eastward from the state capitol in Springfield have higher published rates. ********************************************************************************** Nominations Open for Environmental Stewardship Program Awards Nominations are being accepted for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Environmental Stewardship Award. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award (ESAP) annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the nation. “Every day, cattle producers across the country are implementing stewardship practices that improve wildlife habitat and protect the environment for generations to come,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “This distinguished award is our opportunity to celebrate their hard work and share those efforts with fellow producers.” Any individual, group, or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, although nominees should be involved in preparing the application. Along with the application, one nomination letter and three recommendation letters are required. Also, note there’s an earlier deadline of February 17, 2025. For more information or to download the nomination packet, visit environmentalstewardship.com. *********************************************************************************** Human Bird Flu Case Not Linked to Animal Exposure Over the weekend, Missouri officials identified a person sick with bird flu despite having no known contact with animals. Farm Policy News from the University of Illinois says this is the first case of the virus this year not linked to farm work. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that the Missouri patient was hospitalized and treated with antiviral medications. The patient has since recovered and has been discharged from the hospital. This is the 14th case of bird flu infection in humans this year. Ten cases were reported in Colorado, two in Michigan, and one in Texas, all amid an outbreak in animals. Before this year, there was only one reported case of bird flu in the U.S. in a poultry worker from Colorado, who was infected in 2022. Possible signs of human infection include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, conjunctivitis or pink eye, and runny nose.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 10, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets DTN Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman are giving presentations on what lies ahead for weather and corn and soybean price outlooks at Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island, Nebraska, lot 802 on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Come say hi. Weather A few isolated showers are possible across the Western Corn Belt Tuesday while the rest of the Corn Belt remains dry. Outer rain bands from Tropical Storm Francine will move into the Southern Delta throughout the day which could lead to some areas of locally heavy rainfall across so

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 9, 2024 |

Beef Export Momentum Continues in July U.S. beef exports continued building momentum in July. USDA data says July beef exports totaled 110,419 metric tons, up seven percent from a year ago and the second largest of 2024. Export value rose 12 percent to $910.0 million, also the second-highest this year. July growth was fueled by higher demand in Japan, Taiwan, Mexico, and the Middle East and ASEAN regions. From January through July, value increased six percent from last year despite a two percent drop in volume. Pork exports were well above a year-ago levels in July, led by a record value for shipments to Mexico. Pork exports reached 24,210 metric tons in July, ten percent higher than last year. Export value rose 13 percent to $710.5 million, fueled by a record $244.5 million for leading market Mexico. Through the first seven months of 2024, exports were four percent above 2023 and export value rose six percent. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Likely to Persist in Missouri River Basin Abnormally dry or drought conditions are present across 73 percent of the Missouri River Basin, with drought conditions likely to persist or get worse through November. August runoff was 1.2 million acre-feet, 86 percent of the average above Sioux City, Iowa. The updated 2024 calendar year forecast for the upper Basin is 23.8 million acre-feet, 92 percent of the average annual runoff, which is 25.7 MAF. “August rainfall was generally near normal across most of the Missouri River Basin, with isolated areas of above normal precipitation in every state except Nebraska,” says John Remus of the Army Corps of Engineers. Nebraska was generally below average with most of northern Nebraska’s precipitation at 50 percent of normal. As of September 1, the total water volume in the system was 55.1 MAF, one million below the base of the system’s flood control zone. System storage is expected to decrease through the fall. *********************************************************************************** Landmark Export Agreement in Chile The Consortium for Common Food Nems, National Milk Producers Federation, and the U.S. Dairy Export Council hailed the passage into law of commitments by the Chilean Nation today regarding U.S. exports. The commitments safeguard the rights of U.S. cheese and meat exporters to use certain common names like “parmesan” and “prosciutto” to market and sell their products. The agreement first came together in June between U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Chile’s Undersecretary of International Economic Relations and confirmed a mutual understanding and agreement that U.S. exporters will be able to continue marketing their products in Chile using many common meat and cheese terms. Certain provisions under the EU-Chile trade agreement signed in 2023 enabled the unfair treatment of U.S. meat and dairy products by abusing geographic indication protectors. The Consortium applauds the initiative to negotiate the protection of parmesan and a number of other key products,” says Jaime (HY-may) Castaneda. *********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Submits Comments on Energy Credits and Incentives The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition submitted comments responding to request for stakeholder comments on energy credits and incentives from the House Ways and Means Committee. In its comments, the Coalition underscored the economic benefits associated with SAF investment. The Coalition also emphasized the need for robust, long-term SAF incentives, comparable to biofuels, to ensure the SAF industry’s competitive edge. To achieve this, the Coalition urged the House Ways and Means Committee to consider several solutions, including a longer duration for the SAF tax incentives to support the SAF marketplace and agricultural sector. They’d like to see enhanced value for SAF tax incentives to support sustained investment in producing these new fuels and bolster U.S. SAF leadership. They’d like the Committee to ensure tech neutrality of SAF tax incentives to encourage innovation. They’d like complimentary actions at the Environmental Protection Agency to be consistent with the goals of the SAF tax incentive. ********************************************************************************** USDA, USTR Seek New Trade Advisory Committee Members The USDA and Office of the U.S. Trade Representative are accepting applications for new members to serve on the agricultural trade advisory committees. The Agricultural Trade Policy Advisory Committee is comprised of senior representatives from across the U.S> agricultural community who advise USDA and USTR on overall trade policy matters, while members of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees provide technical advice and guidance from the perspective of their specific product sectors: animals and animal products; fruits and vegetables; grains, feed, oilseeds, and planting seeds; processed foods; sweeteners and sweetener products; tobacco, cotton, peanuts, and hemp. Applications must be received by Friday, September 20, 2024. Committee members appointed from this round of nominations will serve four-year terms beginning in January 2025. To be considered for committee membership, applicants must have expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade. For more information about the committees or application instructions, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Wisconsin Show Exhibitor Gives $22,000 Gift During the 2024 Clark County Fair in Neillsville, Wisconsin, Anna Kayhart exhibited the Grand Champion Dairy Market Steer. The morning of the animal market sale, a member of the Clark County agricultural community, Jeremy and Bethany Oberholtzer experienced the tragedy of a barn fire on the morning of Saturday, August 10. The fire destroyed their milking barn and milkhouse. When it came time to sell her Grand Champion Dairy Steer in the final lot of the auction, the Oberholtzer family was still weighing heavily on her mind. The auctioneer announced that Kayhart decided all proceeds from the sale of her animal would be donated to the Oberholtzer family to help with the expense of cleaning up after the fire and rebuilding their dairy facilities. Anna’s 1,408-pound steer was purchased by Lynn Dairy Inc. in Granton, Wisconsin, and sold for $15.75 per pound, raising more than $22,000 for the Oberholtzer family.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 9, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. As usual, grain traders will keep up on the latest weather forecasts and may be cautious ahead of Thursday's USDA reports. Weather Much of the U.S. is quiet for Monday as temperatures rise in the Plains that will spread eastward over the next couple of days. Eyes are on the Gulf of Mexico as a tropical storm is forecast to develop today, likely labelled Francine. The current track is up through Louisiana and the Lower Mississippi Valley later this week, which could mean flooding damage

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 6, 2024 |

South Dakota Company to Test H5N1 Vaccine South Dakota-based animal health vaccine manufacturer Medgene says it has received approval from the Department of Agriculture to commence testing a vaccine for H5N1 in cattle. "This is great news for us, for the CVB (USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics) and more importantly, the dairy industry,” says Medgene Chief Operating Officer Tom Halbur. “Our technology is founded on being able to respond to disease challenges faster. Our protocol satisfies the states requirements and we're looking forward to doing our part in supporting both the necessary regulatory policies and the needs of the dairy industry." USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced last week that testing for high path avian influenza, or H5N1, in cattle had been approved. Vilsack said field trials would be done in hopes of moving forward for safe and effective use of the vaccine. Progressive Farmer reports the CVB Notice allows for vaccine studies to be conducted outside of containment facilities and has the potential to accelerate agency licensure of H5N1 vaccines in dairy cows. ************************************************************************************* New Organic Tomato Shows Promise Vitaetom, a Belgium company specializing in organic greenhouse-grown vegetables, recently introduced a new organic variety of tomatoes called Ruby Red. This deep red plum tomato is a first in the organic market, and its cultivation earned Koen Van Hauteghem, the third-generation owner of Vitaetom, a nomination for the BioVLAM 2024 award. HortiDaily reports adapting the Ruby Red to organic farming was challenging due to differences in planting methods and soil requirements compared to conventional practices. The Ruby Reds are grown directly in the soil within heated greenhouses, which required adjustments in planting density and fertilization methods to ensure the best growth. Despite the challenges, Van Hauteghem is optimistic about the tomato's potential, noting its excellent flavor and shelf life, which helps reduce food waste. The first harvest has been well-received, leading to plans for expanding the cultivation area significantly next year. ****************************************************************************** USDA Announces $7 Billion in Rural Clean Energy Initiatives Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced more than $7.3 billion in financing for rural electric cooperatives to build clean energy for rural communities through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. Speaking in Wisconsin, Vilsack said the 16 initiatives announced Thursday will leverage private investments of more than $29 billion to build more than 10 gigawatts of clean energy for rural communities across the country. He added the programs will collectively reduce and avoid at least 43.7 million tons of greenhouse gases annually. “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we are supporting a more prosperous future for rural communities by speeding up the transition to clean energy while at the same time keeping monthly bills low and investing in the American workforce with new jobs and apprenticeships,” said Secretary Vilsack. “One in five rural Americans will benefit from these clean energy investments, thanks to partnerships with rural electric cooperatives like Dairyland. Put simply, this is rural power, for rural America.” ****************************************************************************** Farm Leaders Growing Impatient on New Farm Bill Some ag leaders are expressing dismay over the delays in getting a new federal Farm Bill passed. “We need a proper Farm Bill,” says Kurt Coffey, the Case IH, vice president for North America. “We need to work beyond an extension and get a farm bill.” But that is beginning to seem unlikely as there are only about 60 days before the national election, and the current one-year Farm Bill Extension expires at the end of this month. Paul Neiffer, known as The Farm CPA, tells AgWeb he also strongly supports American agriculture getting the certainty that a new Farm Bill would provide. Neiffer says the agricultural economy is seemingly in a recession and without an updated Farm Bill, farmers may struggle even more with net farm income expected to be substantially lower in 2025. A recent Farm Journal poll of ag economists revealed only 19 percent expect a new farm bill to get across the finish line in 2024. ****************************************************************************** More than Three-quarters of Missouri River Basin Abnormally Dry Abnormally dry or drought conditions are present across 73% of the Basin, with drought conditions likely to persist or worsen through November. “August rainfall was generally near normal across most of the Missouri River Basin, with isolated areas of above normal precipitation in every state except Nebraska,” says said John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Nebraska was generally below average with most of northern Nebraska measuring 50% of normal precipitation.” Runoff in the Fort Peck and Fort Peck to Garrison reaches were well-below average while runoff in the reaches between Garrison Dam and Sioux City were all above average. As of Sept. 1, the total volume of water stored in the System was 55.1 MAF, which is 1.0 MAF below the base of the System’s flood control zone. System storage is expected to continue to decline through the fall. ****************************************************************************** EU Reflection Group Urges Overhaul of Ag Sector A report released this week by the president of the European Union suggests that “the EU should undertake a major overhaul of its Common Agricultural Policy to subsidise farmers based on their income rather than the size of their farms.” The report also urged consumers to eat less meat. The report states that Europeans eat more animal protein than scientists recommend and says support is needed for consumers to “rebalance” diets toward plant-based proteins. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen commissioned the report and said the results would feed into a planned vision for agriculture that she will present in the first 100 days of her new mandate. “We share the same goal,” said Von der Leyen. “Only if farmers can live off their land will they invest in more sustainable practices. And only if we achieve our climate and environmental goals together will farmers be able to continue making a living.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 6, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as August employment data from the Labor Department. As usual, grain traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front continues to press south and east through the Corn Belt on Friday, getting down into the Gulf and East Coasts for the weekend. Some isolated showers are possible across the Corn Belt but will be more frequent near the Gulf Coast. A burst of cooler air is filling in behind the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 5, 2024 |

Over 400 Cases of Salmonella Linked to Backyard Poultry More than 400 cases of salmonella across the country have been linked to backyard poultry. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported over 100 people have been hospitalized. Texas and Missouri have the most cases, followed by Minnesota, Washington, Michigan, and Oklahoma. Almost 70 percent of those who’ve gotten sick say they had contact with backyard poultry. Backyard poultry like chickens and ducks can carry Salmonella germs even if they look healthy and clean. You can get sick from touching your backyard poultry or anything in their environment and then touching your mouth or food, thereby swallowing Salmonella germs. Always wash your hands with soap and water immediately after touching backyard poultry, their eggs, or anything in the area. Keep your backyard poultry and the supplies you use to care for them outside of the house. Always supervise children around poultry and make sure they wash their hands afterward. *********************************************************************************** China and Canada Involved in a Trade Dispute China’s Ministry of Commerce will initiate an anti-dumping investigation into canola seed imports from Canada. This investigation is part of China’s response to Canada’s decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum. “China is a valued market for Canadian canola,” says Chris Davison, Canola Council of Canada’s president and CEO. “We are confident that an investigation into Canada’s canola trade with China will demonstrate alignment with and reinforce our support for rules-based trade.” The Canola Council is waiting for further details on the investigation and will work closely with the federal government on this situation. “Working to maintain open and predictable trade for canola is a top priority for the CCC,” Davis adds. “We will continue to engage on this issue to support market access and competitiveness for Canadian canola in this key market.” The Canola Council of Canada represents the entire value chain in the canola-growing process. *********************************************************************************** Wyoming Wildfires Trigger Ag Emergency Order An emergency order is in effect through September 13 due to wildfires in Wyoming. Under this order, certain requirements are waived pertaining to operating time as well as the transportation of oversized or overweight loads of livestock and livestock feed. Wildfires have burned over 100,000 acres in Wyoming, while low humidity and high temperatures make it worse. “Hazardous conditions created a shortage of livestock feed in Wyoming, including depleted pasture grass and natural feed supplies in many parts of the state resulting in inadequate livestock forage,” the order says. “Easing restrictions to transport loads of livestock and livestock feed is necessary to provide assistance to the fire-stricken areas.” However, livestock feed and livestock transportation companies operating under Wyoming’s wildfire emergency order shall not require or allow any fatigued driver to operate a vehicle. A driver who informs their carrier they need rest should be given adequate rest before returning to work. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Values Remain Strong Farmland values in states like Illinois remain sold. Central and Southern Illinois land values increased 7.49 percent on average from last year. That’s according to a 2024 study of 22 benchmark farms by the Farm Credit Illinois appraisal team. Eighteen of the 22 benchmark farms increased in value, and four remained unchanged. Results across all land classes showed considerable variation, reinforcing that agricultural real estate is a location-specific asset. When considering the individual benchmark values, the average year-over-year percentage changes across the four land classes ranged from 3.6 to 14.05 percent. “Farmland values remain strong despite higher interest rates and lower commodity prices,” says Kent Reid, Farm Credit Illinois Chief Appraiser. “Values remain consistent with the peaks set in 2023 due to constant demand for Illinois farmland coupled with limited supply of farms.” Interest rates, higher cash rents, and lower commodity prices could affect land values in the coming year. ********************************************************************************** Entries Open for Dairy Checkoff Competition The Dairy Management Inc. New Product Competition for college students is accepting entries for 2025. The competition seeks innovative dairy product concepts and is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S. This year’s contest theme algins with checkoff-led insights that show consumers are seeking dairy products that deliver health-related benefits. Successful entries will meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation, and provide consumer value in one or more areas, including heart health, metabolic health, and weight management. A combined $27,000 in cash prizes will be awarded. DMI says that spells an opportunity for U.S. dairy. The judging panel includes experts from across the dairy industry. Winning teams will be recognized at the American Dairy Science Association’s Annual Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, June 22-25, 2025. The top prize of $10,000 goes to the Platinum Dairy Innovator Award winner. The deadline for submissions is January 13, 2025. For more information, go to usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Foundation Receives $3 Million Grant The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation was awarded a $3 million cooperative agreement from the Environmental Protection Agency to implement the Pesticide Inspector Residential Training Program. The funding will significantly expand the nationwide educational training provided to pesticide inspectors and enforcement staff over the next five years. The training program is designed to provide comprehensive educational training to pesticide inspectors and enforcement staff from state-led agencies, territories, and tribes that operate under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act cooperative agreements. With this cooperative agreement, the NASDA Foundation will double the number of training courses offered annually, including new bi-annual PIRT training. “The expansion of PIRT reflects the NASDA Foundation’s long-standing commitment to promoting sensible environmental management practices,” says NASDA Foundation Senior Director Chris Jones. “The PIRT Program plays a crucial role in ensuring that our state inspectors are well prepared to meet regulatory standards.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 5, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, along with a revision of second-quarter U.S. productivity. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 10:00 a.m. CDT. Due to this week's holiday schedule, USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday morning. Weather Showers continue near the Gulf Coast on Thursday with a stalled front down there. Another front is moving through the Corn Belt Thursday. Some showers and thunderstorms are forming along the front, but coverage will be spotty and amounts will generally be light as it moves through. Temperatures are dropping behind the front, but the really cool air doesn't start filtering in until Friday.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 4, 2024 |

HPAI Spreads to Three California Dairy Herds Three of California’s dairy farms report cattle infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Wisconsin State Farmer Dot Com says that makes the nation’s top milk-producing state the 14th in the nation to report bird flu in cattle. More than 190 herds have been infected across the nation since March. Federal data says the infections also include 13 dairy and poultry farm workers. The California Department of Food and Agriculture issued a statement saying that no human cases have been confirmed in the state. The infected herds are in California’s Central Valley Region and began showing symptoms on August 25. “It’s a tough time for those dairy farmers given the economic challenges they face,” says Karen Ross, California’s Secretary of Agriculture. “We’re approaching this with the utmost urgency and the infected cattle have been quarantined.” Sick cattle are isolated and treated at their farms, while healthy cows are cleared to continue milking. *********************************************************************************** Weaking Farm Income Slowing Farmer Optimism The August Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dipped 13 points from July to a reading of 100. That drop echoes levels seen from fall 2015 through winter 2016 during the early stages of a significant downturn in the U.S. farm economy. The Index of Current Conditions also dropped 17 points to 83, while the Index of Future Expectations decreased by 11 points to 108. Weakening farm income weighed heavily on farmers’ sentiment as the outlook for a bountiful fall harvest was more than offset by dropping crop prices. This month’s decline provides a signal that farmers are concerned about the possibility of extended weakness in farm incomes, similar to what took place from 2015 to 2019. The August survey results indicate a shift among farmers’ primary concerns, with 30 percent of respondents identifying lower commodity prices as their primary concern, compared to 33 percent who cited high input costs. *********************************************************************************** Koch Completes $3.6 Billion Purchase of Iowa Fertilizer Co. Koch (Coke) Ag & Energy Solutions successfully purchased OCI Global’s fertilizer plant in Weaver, Iowa, for $3.6 billion. After announcing the pending sale last year, the finished transaction gives Koch access to a state-of-the-art facility and its related businesses. The facility opened in 2017 and can produce up to 3.5 million metric tons of nitrogen fertilizers and diesel exhaust fluid annually. “This is a huge blow to retailers and farmers who had hoped more competition in the space would help to keep values more in check,” says Josh Linville of StoneX. However, Mark Luetters, president of Koch, says this is a significant investment in domestic fertilizer production. “In the past 15 years, we have invested $2 billion in our North American production facilities to enhance reliability, expand production, and improve logistics for our consumers,” he says. “This investment enhances our ability to serve customers by providing flexibility to adapt to their nitrogen preferences.” *********************************************************************************** What’s Keeping Farmland Prices High? The farmland market across the Midwest is resilient. While the markets have been pushing lower for almost a year and reaching below breakeven levels, Doug Hensley, President of Hertz Farm Management, says we’ve not seen land prices retreat in a similar fashion. While land sales aren’t making new highs, sale after sale in the early summer months is a reminder of how valuable the opportunity is to own the farm next door. Farmland is highly sought after. “I know landowners who’ve waited decades to position themselves to make a move when a specific farm comes available,” he says. “For some, the timing doesn’t matter.” He also says it does somewhat mute the effect of grain market volatility as not all of last year’s production is getting sold at current price levels. Plus, if the opportunity to buy the right farm surfaces, he says many land buyers can easily sacrifice other capital expenditures. ********************************************************************************** Ten Teams Vie for 100 Grand Ten start-up companies offering agricultural innovations are now vying for the top prize of $100,000 in the 2025 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The Farm Bureau, in partnership with Farm Credit, continues to elevate the importance of entrepreneurship in agriculture through the contest. “New ideas and innovative businesses have continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in farming,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We doubled the prize and the impact for this competition, which helps entrepreneurs grow their ideas into products that support farmers and ranchers in their mission to provide the food, fuel, and fiber we all rely on.” The competition provides an opportunity for individuals to showcase ideas and business innovations in agriculture. It’s the 11th year of the Challenge, which was the first national business competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs launching agriculture- and food-related businesses. Farm Bureau is offering $145,000 in start-up funds throughout the competition. *********************************************************************************** Argentina’s Soybean Planting Growth Accelerating Argentina could see the largest expansion of soybean planting in more than a decade during the 2024-2025 planting season. Farm Policy News says Brazil’s soybean plantings may be heading in the other direction thanks to the slowest growth pace in a decade during the same timeframe. Argentina’s farmers are likely to plant more soybeans in the current 2024-2025 season after last year’s corn was hurt by a devastating insect plague and future rain forecasts look more promising for soybeans. Fears of another leafhopper plague like the one last year that could hit fields again are likely to knock an estimated 4.9 million acres off corn planting and into soybeans. This could potentially boost the world’s soybean supply even as prices are already subdued. Simultaneously, the price drop in soybeans looks less attractive to Brazilian producers than in previous seasons. Slower Brazilian soybean planting growth is unlikely to stop global stocks from swelling.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 4, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT with additional export data to be released by USDA later Wednesday morning. U.S. factory orders for July will be out at 9 a.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book is set for release at 1 p.m. Weather Showers continue in Texas and along the Gulf Coast for Wednesday and could be heavy near the coast. A front is moving through the Northern Plains and will produce some scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. There is a small chance for severe weather in the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 3, 2024 |

Soybean Export Sales Drop Sharply, but Rebound Coming Global demand for U.S. soybeans has fallen sharply as international buyers remain discouraged by the strong dollar, slowing economic growth, and uncertainty over the direction of U.S. trade policy in an election year. Export sales of new-crop soybeans are historically low as the 2024-2025 marketing year begins on September 1. A new report says tailwinds could emerge to rejuvenate demand for U.S. soybeans in the upcoming marketing year. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange issued a brief saying the pace of early season soybean export sales historically has a low correlation with the final marketing year export numbers. With a record U.S. soybean harvest expected this fall, continued weakness in prices will likely attract new export demand. Factors that could increase soybean exports could include a smaller-than-expected South American soybean harvest, a bump in EU demand for soybeans from non-forested acreage, falling U.S. interest rates, and a Chinese economic recovery that could fuel higher demand. *********************************************************************************** USDA Celebrates New School Meal Options as Year Begins The USDA joined the Education Department and other education, parent, and school meal partner groups to celebrate new school meal options as the educational year begins in the U.S. The organizations held a virtual pep rally to celebrate the back-to-school season and thank the champions that educate and nourish our nation’s school children. “Healthy school meals are an essential part of the educational environment and fuel children to learn, grow, and thrive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is fully committed to setting kids up for success, and this rally gives us the opportunity to come together and encourage one another to raise the bar for school meals as the new school year gets going.” Beginning this year, schools have more options to serve protein-rich breakfast foods such as yogurt, tofu, eggs, nuts, and seeds, which can help them offer less sugary foods while also supporting vegetarian diets and other food preferences. *********************************************************************************** Panama Canal Increasing Ship Traffic The Panama Canal is lifting restrictions that caused a global shipping bottleneck as water levels get back to near normal after a severe drought. Farm Policy News says the Panama Canal Authority increased the draft in the waterway to a maximum of 50 feet and will allow 36 vessels a day to cross after recent rains lifted water levels at an artificial lake that forms part of the canal system. The Authority is also expecting rains to continue through November, further lifting water levels. About 30 to 32 vessels are currently traveling through the waterway, and that’s still below pre-drought capacity. The canal had restricted daily transits to as few as 24 while the drought was ongoing, and it will likely take five to six months for shippers to return in full. Rainfall is expected to lift water levels to 88 feet by November from current levels of around 85.8 feet of water. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Utilities Issues Pipeline Permit The Iowa Utilities Commission has found that Summit Carbon Solutions has substantially complied with the requirements of a June 25 order regarding the company’s application for a hazardous liquid pipeline permit. Last week, the IUC issued the permit. The order doesn’t modify the conditions Summit Carbon must establish in order to start construction. On June 25, the IUC issued its final decision and order regarding Summit Carbon’s petition for a hazardous liquid pipeline permit. As a part of its decision, the Commission required Summit Carbon to make several compliance filings with the IUC. Summit Carbon filed the compliance filings required by the IUC on August 5. The filings included revised petition exhibits. The pipeline will cross over 2,000 miles in five states, including 70 miles in Iowa. In planning the pipeline, Summit partnered with 57 ethanol plants and signed voluntary easement agreements with 75 percent of Iowa’s landowners along the route. *********************************************************************************** Cost Report for Milk Production by Herd Size U.S. dairy farms vary widely in size, from fewer than 50 dairy cows to having 2,000 or more. While many factors can influence a dairy farm’s production cost per unit of milk, such as technology use, management, and input prices paid, farm size can also affect costs. The Economic Research Service estimates the cost of milk production by dairy herd size based on the Agricultural Resource Management Surveys conducted every five to six years. Based on the past five surveys, the average total production cost per 100 pounds of milk sold has been consistently lower for dairy farms with larger herd sizes. In 2021, the average total cost per 100 pounds of milk sold was $42.70 for herds with fewer than 50 cows. Farms with 2,000 or more had a cost of $19.14. Lower per-unit production costs are attributable to spreading at least some expenses over a greater output. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Corn, Soybean Export Sales Surge Sales of corn and beans for delivery in the 2024-2025 marketing year, which starts on September 1, jumped during the week ending on August 22. The Ag Department says corn sales in those seven days were reported at 1.49 million metric tons, up from 1.29 million a week earlier. Mexico was the big buyer at 420,000 tons, followed by Japan and Colombia. Exports for the week reached 1.05 million tons, nine percent below the previous week. Soybean sales for the next marketing year jumped to 2.62 million metric tons, up from 1.68 million during the prior week. China bought 870,000 tons, followed by Mexico and Egypt. Weekly exports rose 29 percent to 542,000 tons. Wheat sales in the current marketing year totaled 532,000 metric tons, eight percent higher than the prior week and 53 percent above the previous four-week average.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 3, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. futures markets are closed Monday for Labor Day. Trading in grains will resume later Monday at 7 p.m. CDT. Reports of manufacturing indices from around the world will start rolling in late Monday and early Tuesday. The Institute of Supply Management's index of U.S. manufacturing is due out at 9 a.m. Tuesday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m., followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather It is relatively quiet across the country coming off the Labor Day Holiday in which a lot of areas saw rain. Showers will be concentrated across Texas and the Gulf Coast. A new storm system is brewing in the Pacific Northwest, set to move through the Northern Plains for Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 30, 2024 |

FAPRI Updates Baseline for U.S. Ag Markets The University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute released its 2024 Baseline Update for U.S. agricultural markets. Increased supplies, a strong dollar, and several other factors have caused prices for multiple agricultural commodities to fall sharply from their 2022 peak levels. In the absence of new shocks to the weather, the macro-economy, or policy, projected prices will generally remain near current levels for the next five years. Some of the key results in the update include increased acreage and large yields that will mean a record 2024 U.S. soybean crop. Despite a significant jump in crush and a rebound in exports, end-of-year stocks will increase sharply. Record yield will result in the second consecutive 15 billion bushel corn crop this year. Given the projected reduction in prices for a broad range of crops and moderating production costs, there’s little incentive to sharply change crop acreage allocation in 2025. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Online Debt Consolidation Tool The USDA launched a new Debt Consolidation Tool that allows U.S. agricultural producers to enter their farm operating debt and evaluate the potential savings that might come from debt consolidation. That consolidation could come from either a local lender or the Farm Service Agency. “Providing producers with options to structure their debt in a manner that affords them every opportunity to meet the goals of their agricultural operations is the best way to ensure the nation’s farmers and ranchers build financial equity and resilience,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. By combining multiple eligible debts into a single, larger loan, farmers may get more favorable payment terms like lower interest rates or lower payments. The tool can help farmers achieve financial viability by helping them identify potential savings that could be reinvested in their operations, retirement accounts, or college savings accounts. Producers can access the tool at farmers.gov. *********************************************************************************** NIAA Welcomes New Antibiotic Co-Chairs The National Institute for Animal Agriculture welcomed two new co-chairs to its Antibiotics Council: Dr. Heather Fowler from the National Pork Board and Dr. Alexandra Medley from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The purpose of the Antibiotics Council is to seek to enhance an animal agriculture industry that’s aligned with judicious antibiotic use policies and practices. Dr. Fowler is the director of producer and public health at NPB, where she oversees public health as well as occupational safety and health issues as they relate to swine production in the United States. Dr. Medley is a veterinary epidemiologist currently serving as the Associate Director for Antimicrobial Resistance within the Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases at the CDC. The Antibiotics Council is also hosting its annual Antibiotics Symposium. Co-Chairs have assembled a planning committee for the 14th Annual Antibiotics Symposium in Denver, Colorado, from November 19-21, 2024. ********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Vietnam, Southeast Asia Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead a USDA trade mission to Vietnam from September 9-13. She’ll be joined at stops in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi by representatives from 58 agribusinesses and organizations and nine state governments that represent the diversity of U.S. agriculture. “Vietnam’s continued economic growth, ongoing reform, and young population have combined to create a dynamic and quickly evolving environment for high-quality and diverse American agricultural products,” says Taylor. “Our collaboration has secured market access for a variety of American products, including most recently stone fruit and grapefruit.” In 2023, the U.S. exported $3.1 billion worth of agricultural products to Vietnam. The U.S. holds a sizable market share in Vietnam across several commodities like cotton, soybeans, and distillers’ grains, along with consumer products like tree nuts, dairy, and fresh fruit. Participants will connect with several key importers in business-to-business meetings during the visit. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Reacts to CARB Proposal A proposed cap on soy- and canola-based biodiesel and renewable diesel could raise prices of fuel and goods for California consumers and set back decarbonization efforts by years. Those comments were submitted to the California Air Resources Board by Clean Fuels Alliance America. The recently proposed amendments to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard would put a 20 percent cap on credits for vegetable-oil-based fuel without sufficient scientific evidence to support such limitations. Clean Fuels and other industry stakeholders are urging the board to reconsider the proposed caps on vegetable oils in the LCFS in part because it will delay decarbonization and increase the cost to comply with California’s lofty greenhouse gas reduction goals. For every five years of delay, 13 times more emissions reductions will be required to have the same climate impact. Biodiesel and renewable diesel are responsible for 45 percent of the state’s progress to date under the LCFS. *********************************************************************************** Missouri Researchers Working on Protecting Cattle from Tick Diseases University of Missouri researchers are working to develop the first-ever vaccine proven to protect cattle from a devastating tick-borne disease called bovine anaplasmosis. The research is vital to a state like Missouri, which has a $1.6 billion cattle industry. Bovine anaplasmosis infects the red blood cells of cattle and causes hundreds of millions in economic losses nationwide every year and almost $1 billion in worldwide losses. Roman Ganta, a University of Missouri researcher, led the study that created the new vaccine. The work involves modifying the pathogen that causes anaplasmosis in a lab. By deleting a specific gene and injecting the modified pathogen into cattle, the vaccinated cattle were successfully immunized against the disease. “I often receive calls from cattle producers who are excited about our research and want to know how soon they can get the vaccine,” Ganta says. “There is currently no widely available effective vaccine against the disease.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 30, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Friday is first notice day for September grain contracts. The U.S. Commerce Department will release its PCE inflation index for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT and also July reports of U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index is due out at 9 a.m. Weather A strong cold front that brought areas of heavy rain to the central Corn Belt Thursday continues to press eastward for Friday. Showers may be more scattered and overall lighter than Thursday, but will favorably hit some areas with needed rain from Texas to Michigan. Isolated showers may also fill in across the South and Southeast, where drought has been growing lately.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 29, 2024 |

USDA Forecasts an Increasing Trade Deficit in 2025 The USDA forecasted the agricultural trade deficit to increase sharply to a record $42.5 billion in the coming fiscal year. That compares to $30.5 billion this fiscal year, which ends September 30. The widening trade gap, a source of frustration for many farmers and ag-state lawmakers, reflects an expected $8 billion increase in agricultural imports in fiscal year 2025 to $212 billion and a $4 billion drop in exports to $169.5 billion. The decline is primarily driven by lower corn, soybean, and cotton prices, as well as lower volumes of beef. Horticultural exports are projected to rise by $1.2 billion to a record $41.5 billion due to higher exports across all categories. Ethanol exports are forecast at $4.3 billion, unchanged from the revised FY 2024 projection. Agricultural exports to Mexico are forecast at $29.2 billion, $100 million below the prior fiscal year. Exports to Canada are unchanged at $28.9 billion. *********************************************************************************** Deck Stacked Against American Biofuels Growth Energy submitted comments to the California Air Resources Board criticizing the latest updates to California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Growth Energy says the changes unfairly single out American biofuels and make it hard for them to generate credits under the program. Specifically, Growth Energy objected to a proposed “sustainability certification” requirement, calling it “a double penalty for corn starch bioethanol.” Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Chris Bliley says the economic impact analysis acknowledges potential direct and indirect land use change is at least partially and potentially fully accounted for by the LUC scores added to crop-derived pathways. “This acknowledgment renders the need for a sustainability certification moot as potential LUC concerns for crop-based feedstocks are addressed,” he said. Farmers that produce feedstocks for biofuel production are required to use climate-smart practices to qualify for certification but still wouldn’t get any credit for the emissions reductions under the LCFS. *********************************************************************************** DEKALB Partners with the Field of Dreams Movie Site DEKALB is proud to announce its new partnership as the official corn seed for the Field of Dreams movie site in Iowa. DEKALB corn surrounds the filming site of the iconic 1989 Field of Dreams baseball movie while it continues to make dreams come true for countless baseball fans around the world. Rahe (Ray) Farms of Dyersville has farmed the Field of Dreams movie site for 20 years and takes great pride in growing the corn surrounding one of the world’s most famous baseball fields. “It’s been an honor for our family to be able to farm the Field of Dreams Movie Site and grow DEKALB corn there,” says Andy Rahe. “It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it only makes sense to have the best corn brand in the world represented at the site.” A pathway took fans through the cornfield to the ballpark during MLB games in 2021 and 2022. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Beef Exports to Hit Records in 2024, 2025 Beef exports from Brazil are expected to reach record highs in both 2024 and 2025 amid strong demand from overseas buyers, a weakened local currency, and “challenges” expected from rival exporting countries. That’s according to an attaché report from the USDA office in Brazil. Brazil, the world’s largest beef exporter, will ship a carcass weight equivalent of 3.575 million metric tons of meat this year. The agency says that will rise to 3.6 million tons in 2025. Exports account for 30 percent of all beef production in the South American country. “A relevant element that’s working in favor of the increased Brazilian beef production is that its main competitors, including the U.S., EU, and Argentina, are forecast to scale back beef production in 2024, opening up opportunities for Brazil,” USDA says. Slaughter is forecast to reach 48 million head in 2024 before dropping to 47.5 million head the following year. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Wants Immediate 45Z Guidance Clean Fuels Alliance America sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen urging the agency to issue guidance, including safe harbors, to the 45Z Clean Fuels Production Credit by September 1. The new producer credit becomes available on January 1, 2025, as the existing blender credit expires. Clean Fuels’ letter emphasizes the difficulties that farmers, producers, and fuel marketers are facing in making the transition without guidance on the rules. “U.S. biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are having difficulties finalizing feedstock contracts, securing capital flows, and meeting project deadlines without knowing the value of the credit,” says Clean Fuels in the letter. “The need for policy certainty is urgent.” Clean Fuels is requesting the Treasury to issue safe harbor provisions allowing taxpayers to rely on existing carbon lifecycle assessments, such as the GREET model, to calculate the 45Z credit until a final rule is in effect. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Updated Guidance on Labeling The USDA announced the availability of updated guidelines that make recommendations to strengthen the documentation that supports animal-raising or environment-related claims on meat or poultry product labels. The action builds on the work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels. “These updates will help level the playing field for businesses who are truthfully using these claims and ensure that people can trust the labels when they buy meat and poultry products,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Animal-raising claims like “Raised Without Antibiotics” or “Grass-Fed” and environmental claims like “Raised Using Regenerative Agriculture Practices” are voluntary marketing claims detailing certain aspects of how the animals are raised or how the producers maintain and improve the environment. The Food Safety and Inspection Service reviews the evidence to support these claims that can only be included on meat and poultry labels once they’ve been approved by the agency.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 29, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and updates of second-quarter GDP and the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather A strong cold front will continue to work through the Plains Thursday while also providing a few marginally severe storms across the western Midwest Thursday afternoon into the evening. Some of the strongest storms may favor Minnesota, Iowa, and western Wisconsin.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 28, 2024 |

Judge Blocks Rule Allowing Farmworkers to Join Unions A federal judge blocked the U.S. Labor Department from enforcing a rule in 17 states that would prevent agricultural employers from retaliating against migrant workers with H-2A visas for joining labor unions. Employers also couldn’t retaliate for workers organizing against wage theft, trafficking, and other abuses. Courthouse News says the judge sided with states in a lawsuit against the Labor Department and granted a preliminary injunction. He ruled the regulation would unconstitutionally give foreign agricultural workers rights that Congress never wanted to provide. Judge Lisa Wood found the rule violates the National Labor Relations Act, a federal law that allows certain employees to unionize. Ag laborers are explicitly excluded from the law’s definition of “employee” and aren’t entitled to collective bargaining rights. Judge Wood wrote that by implementing the final rule, the DOL exceeded its general authority constitutionally afforded to agencies. The rule was supposed to combat abusive working conditions for employees. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Associates Applauds Drought-Tolerant Wheat Approval U.S. Wheat Association commended the USDA for its thorough, science-based process resulting in the deregulation of the HB4 drought-tolerant trait from Bioceres Crop Solutions. The farmer leaders of USW are confident that the trait has the potential to deliver significant producer and consumer benefits. Although USDA’s ruling clears the regulatory pathway for the cultivation of HB4 wheat in the U.S., there are several additional steps needed before those benefits are realized and HB4 is grown commercially. “Wherever wheat is grown in the world, drought takes its toll on yields and quality, so an innovation like HB4 holds a lot of interest for growers like me,” says USW Past Chair Michael Peters. “With global wheat demand hitting new records almost every year, there is concern about variable production.” In addition to FDA approval in 2022, the company received regulatory approval for food and feed use in Nigeria, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, and South Africa. *********************************************************************************** Political Promises to Lower the Price of Food The latest results were released from the Gardner Food and Agricultural Policy survey on the question of whether consumers and voters believe those in political power can address high food prices. Farm Doc Daily from the University of Illinois says concerns about the cost of food remain a priority for consumers and voters, and the recent emphasis on food prices by both presidential candidates demonstrates the issue’s continued relevance. Farmdoc found most respondents thought that political parties could help lower food prices and grocery bills. Not surprisingly, most respondents who identified with one of the major parties thought that only their party would be successful in lowering prices. Those who identified as independent or aligned with a third party were less confident politicians could help lower food prices. The results of the survey underscore that consumers do believe politicians can help lower the cost of food, but the “who” can is highly partisan. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants to Strengthen the Specialty Crop Industry The USDA is awarding $82.3 million to 65 recipients to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops, and help support the industry’s producers. From market development to consumer education to research, these programs expand markets, increase the competitiveness of the specialty crop industry, and increase access to specialty crops for consumers. “This funding will strengthen specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and more,” says USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffitt. “These programs are furthering our efforts to build a more resilient food system, one where consumers and producers have more, new, and better market opportunities, which helps farmers and their communities prosper.” Through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, USDA is awarding $72.9 million to 54 states and territories, as well as $9.4 million to 11 projects in multiple states. *********************************************************************************** Summer Heat Building Ahead of Labor Day Weekend Temperatures are soaring across much of the country during the final week of August before the Labor Day holiday weekend arrives, with a threat of downpours and severe weather from Texas to the Carolinas. AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok says the large heat dome of high pressure that’s building from the Midwest to parts of the East will break down this week and over the weekend as a strong cold front slides to the southeast. “A strong cold front will move through the eastern third of the nation over the holiday weekend,” he says. “Showers and a few strong, gusty thunderstorms are likely,” he says. “The big travel day on Friday will feature heavy showers and gusty thunderstorms from the Midwest to the South-Central Plains along the front.” Meantime, a heat wave will continue baking the Midwest, with temperatures 8-14 degrees above historical averages, and will combine with high humidity. *********************************************************************************** Global Diary Top 20 Report RaboResearch’s annual Global Dairy Top 20 report reveals a year of modest gains and strategic shifts within the dairy sector. The report, which analyzes the financial performance of the world’s leading dairy companies, indicates a slight 0.3 percent increase in combined turnover in U.S. dollar terms, a stark contrast to the previous year’s 8.1 percent growth. The report attributes the deceleration in revenue growth to lower milk prices in 2023 compared to 2022. This trend particularly affected European cooperatives, and seven companies worldwide reported lower revenues in their local currencies. In the U.S., dairy companies are focusing on internal growth rather than acquisitions, with over $7 billion planned for new plant construction and expansions from 2023 through 2026, mainly in cheese production. Milk production is expected to grow again in 2025 after three straight years of stagnation. This trend contrasts with other regions where plant closures are more likely.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 28, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Grain traders continue to monitor weather in the U.S. and South America and financial traders will watch for the PCE inflation index, due out Friday morning. Weather A weak front and disturbance moving through the Midwest will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms for Wednesday. Some of those could be severe, tapping into the expansive heat and humidity in the region. A new front is moving into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains, which should produce scattered showers of its own, and is bringing in a burst of much cooler air.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 27, 2024 |

Canadian Rail Employees Go Back to Work The Canada International Relations Board (CIRB) issued an order imposing binding arbitration between the two sides. The CIRB also ordered that no rail work stoppage, whether a lockout or strike, can occur during the arbitration process. As a result, work has resumed on both the Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) networks as of Monday morning, August 26. While railroad workers have returned to the job, the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference has vowed to challenge the ruling in court. “Of course, it’s preferable for the two parties to have the latitude to arrive at an agreement themselves,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. It's appropriate that the federal government intervened on behalf of the country and all those, like U.S. agriculture, that depend on a predictable, reliable cross-border supply chain. “We look forward to a return to normalcy very soon,” says Steenhoek. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Announced New Investment in Young Advocates The National Pork Producers Council unveiled a new Strategic Investment Program called “Young Pork Advocates” for young people ages 18-22. The initiative aims to empower young advocates within the pork industry. At the 2024 World Pork Expo, NPPC hosted the inaugural Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet contest, which fostered lively discussions on key industry topics. Emma Kuhns of Illinois won the meet. “The top reason students should get involved is because of the invaluable network connections being made that are a laugh pad for a successful career,” Kuhns says. For an annual investment of $50, young people get regular communications on pork industry issues, opportunities to apply for scholarships, communications and advocacy training, and more. “Leveraging the potential and passion of your youth is critical for the future of the pork industry,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. Young people interested in the program can go to nppc.org for more information. *********************************************************************************** NIAA Accepting Applications for Leadership Training The National Institute for Animal Agriculture is accepting nominations for the fourth Cohort of the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders. Nominations are due November 17. The 16-month leadership program blends in-person and virtual working sessions to focus on four areas of development: critical thinking, leadership development, connecting and relating skills, and operational excellence. Members of the program work together on applied-learning projects that will incorporate interest in animal agriculture. “It’s been a true gift to learn from and collaborate with the other community groups, organizations, and associations represented within this leadership cohort,” says Sarah Coleman, Kentucky Horse Council and member of Cohort 3. “To learn about so many things in the agriculture space is incredible and it’s reassuring that so many of us are working to ensure that agriculture is sustainable in every facet of the word.” More information about how to nominate someone or apply is available at animalagriculture.org *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Cattle on Feed and Egg Production Reports Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 11.1 million head on August 1, 2024. The inventory level was slightly above August 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots totaled 1.70 million head, six percent higher than in 2023. Net placements for the month were 1.65 million head. Marketings of fed cattle in July totaled 1.86 million head, eight percent above the same time in 2023. Other disappearances during July totaled 1.86 million head, 14 percent below last year. United States egg production totaled 9.06 billion during July 2024, two percent below last year. Production included 7.76 billion table eggs and 1.30 billion hatching eggs. The average number of layers during July totaled 370 million, down three percent from last year. July egg production per 100 layers was 2,451 eggs, slightly higher than July of last year. *********************************************************************************** Building Ethanol Markets in Africa, Middle East The U.S. Grains Council escorted a group of key ethanol industry stakeholders from Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates on a tour of U.S. ethanol facilities. The goal of the tour is to help advance biofuel exports to Africa and the Middle East. USGC’s regional director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa says providing market intelligence and a consistent information flow about the U.S. biofuels industry, supply and demand, transportation, blending and quality issues, and exposing Middle East and African players to the U.S. ethanol industry will hopefully catalyze future demand of sustainable aviation fuel and U.S. bioethanol in the region. The countries represented examples of different stages of ethanol adoption in the region. For example, Nigeria has consistently been the largest market for U.S. ethanol, mainly for industrial use. The Council’s efforts there and in Ghana include fuel policy authorities and possibly developing E10 blending mandates. *********************************************************************************** Colorado Officials Releasing Even More Wolves Colorado Parks and Wildlife intends to release more gray wolves into the exact zone where they’ve already killed dozens of sheep and cattle in Grand and Summit counties. Colorado Politics Dot Com says in just over four months, the death toll for livestock killed by wolves in the area is now dozens. Officials estimate that number comes from nine out of the ten wolves released last December. Most of the livestock were likely killed by just two wolves, a mating pair that produced three pups. Reid DeWalt of Colorado Parks and Wildlife said last Friday that they’re considering the same zone for their next release of wolves. “CPW’s wolf restoration plan says the wolves would be released in two zones: a northern zone where the first group was released, and a southern zone.,” says DeWalt. DeWalt told the commission that the next release next release would again be in the northern zone.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 27, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. consumer confidence in August is scheduled at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. DTN Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman are speaking at the Farm Progress show in Boone, Iowa, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning in building 1118. Come say hi. Weather A cold front will provide scattered showers and storms across the Midwest on Tuesday with some storms severe. Some of the strongest storms may target Wisconsin, northern Illinois, Michigan, northern Indiana, and northern Ohio. Hot temperatures are expected out ahead of the cold front from the eastern Midwest into the Southern Mississippi Valley.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 26, 2024 |

Canadian Government Steps Into the Rail Strike Canadian freight trains could be running again within days. Farm Policy News says the government forced the two major railroads into binding arbitration with their labor union. The move should turn aside what would potentially trigger serious economic consequences in Canada and the U.S. if trains don’t run for a long time. Labor Minister Steve MacKinnon took action only 16 hours after Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City locked out their employees over an impasse in labor negotiations. Both railroads say they’ll get trains moving as quickly as possible. “The government wanted to give negotiation every chance to succeed on its own, but the economic risk was ultimately too great to allow the lock-outs to continue,” MacKinnon says. Canadian National says it lifted the lockout on Thursday to expedite the economic recovery. CPKC says it’s prepared to resume operations but claims the Teamsters didn’t want to discuss the matter. *********************************************************************************** South Dakota State Supreme Court Sides with Landowners The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Summit Carbons Solutions can’t build a carbon-capture pipeline through the state as the situation stands right now. The court ruled that Summit hasn’t proven it’s a “common carrier.” A common carrier transports goods and services for the public in exchange for a fee, such as electricity in a transmission line. Common carriers are allowed to use eminent domain to gain land access from unwilling landowners. The State Supreme Court ruled Summit hasn’t proven to lower courts that it’s holding itself out to the general public as transporting a commodity for hire. Landowners who oppose the project applauded the decision as a victory. However, South Dakota Searchlight says the company remains confident it can go back to the lower courts and prove its case. Summit Carbon Solutions is developing an $8 billion pipeline project to transport CO2 to underground storage in North Dakota. *********************************************************************************** Company Brings Virtual Fencing for Livestock Halter, a New Zealand company, has brought its virtual fencing technology for livestock to the U.S. “Halter technology is a powerful system that helps users precisely manage pasture to lift the performance of your grazing animals,” says Craig Piggot (PIG-uht), founder and CEO of Halter. The Halter app allows users to establish virtual fences anywhere on their land. Ranchers can see a heatmap of grazing activity through the app and take advantage of grass growth by moving cattle to optimize the best grazing opportunities for the animals. Cows are trained to respond to the collar’s guidance cues as they approach the virtual fence. Users can create new fences from the app on their mobile phones and herd animals into new pasture areas by using sound and vibration cues generated through the app. “Ranchers can quickly put cattle where the grass is without moving fences or physically herding their cattle,” Piggot adds. ********************************************************************************** Sorghum Interest is Growing Sorghum is an ancient cereal grain that holds a lot of potential. “We see sorghum as so much more than just another crop,” says Nate Blum, CEO of Sorghum United, dedicated to advancing sorghum cultivation globally. The rising interest in sorghum is being driven largely by its suitability to hotter, drier growing conditions, which makes it a climate-smart crop. As weather patterns continue to grow more unpredictable, many farmers appear to be turning to sturdy, drought-resistant sorghum to stabilize and boost yields. “Sorghum actively replenishes the soil and environmental capital,” Blum adds. “It requires few external inputs, fixes soil nitrogen, and helps prevent erosion.” Beyond that, sorghum also holds emerging market opportunities. As the gluten-free trend continues growing, demand for specialty products is rising. The grain can be milled into gluten-free flour, popped like corn, turned into syrups and edible oils, brewed for beer, and used as cattle feed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Makes Payments to Producers Impacted by Hurricane Debby The USDA announced the counties that have triggered for payment under the Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index endorsement for Hurricane Debby. Approved insurance providers have 30 days to issue producer payments. Under HIP-WI, producers will receive over $200 million in indemnities for hurricane-related losses from Hurricane Debby. “The hurricane caused devastating damage across the southeast and impacted many agricultural operations,” says Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger. “The RMA’s hurricane and tropical storm endorsement provides added protection for producers who want more coverage options. We understand the importance of timely payments that help producers overcome natural disasters and assist with recovery efforts.” Estimated indemnities include over $12 million for Florida, $45.6 million in Georgia, $97.8 million in North Carolina, and $54.3 million for South Carolina. Producers do not need to file a claim to receive an indemnity payment under the HIP-WI program. If a county is triggered, indemnity payments are automatically issued. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Delivers Support to Young, Beginning, and Small Farmers Farm Credit System institutions made almost 133,000 loans to young, beginning, or small U.S. producers in 2023, delivering on their critical mission to support rural communities and agriculture. A new Farm Credit Administration Report underscores Farm Credit’s commitment to the next generation of agricultural producers through strategic lending and support initiatives. “Supporting young, beginning, and small farmers is central to Farm Credit’s mission and vital for the future of American agriculture,” says Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council. “As the farm economy became even more difficult in 2023, Farm Credit had nearly $113 billion in new loans to young, beginning, or small U.S. producers.” For example, in 2023, the Farm Credit institutions made over 47,000 loans totaling $11.7 billion to young producers who are 35 or younger. Almost 66,000 loans were made to producers with ten years or less of experience, totaling nearly $18.1 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 26, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be digesting Friday's news that rail service was restored in Canada and the latest comments from Fed Reserve Chairman Powell. The chairman said, "The time has come for policy to adjust," meaning a cut in interest rates is likely at the September Fed meeting. A report on U.S. durable goods orders for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Monday. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Heat has filled in to most of the country east of the Rockies and will be sweltering for some areas. It will also fuel potential for severe storms across the northern Corn Belt, particularly in eastern South Dakota into Wisconsin. All hazards are possible with the storms, but wind and hail will be most likely.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 23, 2024 |

Canadian Rail Strike Begins A disruption in rail service is in effect between Canada’s Class One railways and the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference Union. As a result, the Canola Council of Canada says service has ground to a halt, impacting all segments in the value chain. With farmers already harvesting some grains in parts of Canada and the U.S., the work stoppage couldn’t have come at a worse time for the grains sector. Grain elevators and oilseed processors are reducing capacity and curbing production, resulting in delays in executing customer contracts and farmers are losing their ability to sell their commodities. In turn, that affects their ability to cash flow their operations. This will further damage the reputations of farmers in both countries as reliable suppliers and risks future exports and loss of market share to competitors. Given the lack of progress, ag groups want Canada’s government to send both groups to binding arbitration. *********************************************************************************** North American Cattle Leaders Hold Joint Meeting The Canadian Cattle Association hosted the third 2024 meeting with its North American counterparts, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and CNOG, their Mexican counterparts. The groups met on the sideline of the Canadian Beef Industry Conference and discussed the challenges and opportunities facing beef producers across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. Topics this year included trade policy, the upcoming U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement review in 2026, and international engagement on microbial resistance. “NCBA values our relationships with our Canadian and Mexican counterparts and our ability to come together as allies to tackle issues facing North American producers,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “In addition to discussing international trade and animal health concerns, we’re also standing together to push back against lab-grown proteins.” He also says the lab-grown protein companies are trying to capitalize on the incredible reputation of real beef. The next meeting will be in San Antonio, Texas, in 2025. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Producers Elect New Chair The National Sorghum Producers Board of Directors elected Amy France of Scott City, Kansas, as chairwoman at the board’s annual August budget and board meeting. France says it’s a true honor to serve as chairwoman of the NSP. “Just as in farming, many fine people have blazed a trail before me so that we can achieve the things we do today,” France says. “I’m grateful for past leadership and their examples and look forward to continuing to carry the torch for sorghum and agriculture in this most important time.” She operates a family farm in the semi-arid western Kansas region and produces grain sorghum, corn, wheat, and black Angus cattle. She and her husband, Clint, are third-generation farmers who work along with their oldest son. France has served on the NSP board of directors since 2018. The 2024-2025 term begins on October 1. View the entire leadership team at SorghumGrowers.com. ********************************************************************************** New Video on Public Lands Movement During FMD Outbreak The American Sheep Industry Association worked with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and other stakeholders to develop movement decision criteria guidance during a potential FMD outbreak. The video is for federal land grazers and the unique challenges they would face in a food-and-mouth outbreak. “For years, the resources prepared have focused on mitigating losses on private land,” says NCBA’s Kaitlynn Glover. “Now, with help from a number of organizations, we have comprehensive resources to help public lands ranchers whose livestock may be far from any infected herd have predictability for their operations in the event of an FMD outbreak.” Livestock producers are now more prepared than ever to work with federal agencies and health officials to make movement decisions. A five-minute video describes the project and resources and can be viewed on the Secure Sheep and Wool Supply and Secure Beef Supply websites under the Public Land Grazing pages. *********************************************************************************** Imports of Animal Fats and Processed Oils Have Skyrocketed U.S. imports of animal fats, greases, and processed oils, including used cooking oil, skyrocketed to almost five billion in 2023 from 2.2 billion pounds in 2022. The surge in imports has been driven by rising domestic production of biomass-based diesel – fuels derived from animal fats and vegetable oils – to meet U.S federal and state policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These policies sparked new demand for animal fats, processed oils, and grease and have boosted imports, especially processed oil imports commonly known as used cooking oil. Process imports have doubled to three billion pounds from 2022 to 2023 as China emerged as the top supplier. U.S. tallow imports also have increased largely on expanded sourcing from Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina. As biofuel use grows, the structural shift in biomass-based diesel production and import markets is expected to affect domestic use and trade flows of animal fats and vegetable oils. *********************************************************************************** July Milk Output Declines Modestly USDA says milk production in the 24 largest producing states fell slightly year-over-year in July. Output was down 0.2 percent from the same month a year earlier to 18.2 billion pounds. USDA says per-cow production rose two pounds to 2,047 pounds, and the number of milk cows on dairy farms was reported at 8.88 million, down 31,000 head from July 2023. The agency revised its June milk output levels to 17.9 billion pounds, down 1.5 percent year-over-year. In the three months ending on June 30, the total milk herd totaled 9.33 million head, down from 9.41 million a year earlier. Production per cow fell to 6,151 pounds from 6,164 pounds in the same timeframe last year. The government report also says milk output in the quarter through June fell 1.1 percent to 57.4 billion pounds. Total milk production in the U.S. reached 18.9 billion pounds during July, down 0.4 percent from July 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 23, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. new home sales for July will be released at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's monthly cattle on-feed and cold storage reports are due out at 2 p.m. Grain traders will be closely watching developments surrounding the halt to rail service in Canada that is also affecting U.S. rail service and making grain elevators reluctant to take in grain until they can be confident about making shipments. Fed-watchers will be following Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's speech in Jackson Hole, Wyoming on Friday, looking for any clues on what the Fed will decide in September. Weather A weak front may produce some showers from Colorado to Wisconsin on Friday but will be only spotty where it occurs. A system moving into the Pacific Northwest will spread more showers through the Northern Plains and eventually the Canadian Prairies later Friday afternoon and evening. Heat that has been stuck in Texas all week, is starting to spread north.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 22, 2024 |

Shippers Lose STB Rate Review Option Grain elevators and others who move smaller shipping volumes likely won’t get a quicker process to settle rate differences with railroads after a federal appeals court ruling. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals says the Surface Transportation Board exceeded its authority by trying to streamline rate dispute settlements between railroads and shippers. The nation’s largest railroads sued over the new rate rules, and the appeals court found in their favor. Great American Crop Dot Com says the ruling will limit the ability of shippers to challenge railroad freight rates in situations involving smaller shipping volumes. Major ag groups and other industries that rely on railroads to remove commodities lost their arguments defending the STB Rule. Union Pacific Railroad filed the lawsuit, along with the American Association of Railroads, which lobbies for major railroad companies. Federal statutes require railroads to establish reasonable rates when they do not have effective competition. *********************************************************************************** EPA Releases New Herbicide Strategy The Environmental Protection Agency released its final Herbicide Strategy, calling it an “unprecedented step” in protecting over 900 federally endangered and threatened species from the potential impacts of herbicides. EPA will use the strategy to identify measures to reduce the amount of herbicide exposure to these species when it registers new herbicides and when it reevaluates registered herbicides under a process called registration review. The final strategy incorporates a wide range of stakeholder input, ensuring EPA not only protects species but also preserves a wide range of pesticides for farmers and growers. “Finalizing our first major strategy for endangered species is a historic step in EPA meeting its Endangered Species Act obligations,” says Jake Li, EPA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pesticide Programs. “By identifying protections earlier in the pesticide review process, we are far more efficiently protecting listed species from herbicides and reducing the burdensome uncertainty for the farmers who use them.” *********************************************************************************** Soy Growers Wary of EPA Herbicide Strategy American soybean growers are worried about the feasibility of implementation and the impacts of the Environmental Protection Agency’s final Endangered Species Act Herbicide Strategy. Josh Gackle, president of the American Soybean Association, says while there are improvements to the final Herbicide Strategy over what was first proposed, they’re disappointed that EPA chose to leave so many opportunities on the table to make this strategy workable for farmers. “We remain concerned with the complexity of this framework and whether growers and applicators will be able to clearly understand how to implement it,” Gackle says. ”We also have concerns as to the type and affordability of runoff mitigations EPA has provided, the potential distance of spray drift buffers, and concerns with several other requirements.” The Herbicide Strategy will cost U.S. farmers billions of dollars to implement and could result in significant new hurdles to farmers accessing and using herbicides in the future. ********************************************************************************** World Dairy Expo Taking Extra Steps to Protect Cattle Valuable purebred cattle are heading to Madison, Wisconsin, in October to take part in the 57th Annual World Dairy Expo. As one of the premier dairy shows in the U.S., the Expo will take extra precautions to ensure H5N1 doesn’t infect the animals. The Wisconsin State Farmer says the Expo staff are in contact with USDA and the state Department of Agriculture so that everyone understands what the requirements are to take cattle onto the Alliant Energy Center show grounds in Madison. “There will be a World Dairy Expo, and we will have cow classes,” says Expo Manager Laura Herschleb, now in her third year of managing the event. The show runs October 1-4 this year and typically features around 2,500 head of dairy cattle. Herschleb says biosecurity is always important, and they’re placing greater emphasis on it this year. Veterinarians will be on the Expo Showgrounds during the entire event. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows the Value of Livestock Grazing A study from the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service confirmed the value of livestock grazing as a tool to protect western rangelands from wildfires. The Public Lands Council, which represents ranchers who hold federal grazing permits, hailed the research as more proof of the important role livestock grazing plays in protecting our natural resources. “In a year where wildfire has run rampant across the West, this study is a great reminder that livestock grazing must be an integral part of land management and wildfire mitigation,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. The study demonstrated that grazing supports the reduction of fire fuels that pose huge risks in sagebrush ecosystems that are prone to fire. By applying targeted grazing in these landscapes, managers can create effective fuel breaks to slow fire activity and improve suppression efforts. Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director, says officials should remain confident in their partnership with public lands ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Farm Rescue Gets Own Farm Progress Show Booth for First Time Farm Rescue is a nonprofit organization that provides free planting, haying, harvesting, and other types of assistance to farmers who’ve experienced a major illness, injury, or natural disaster. For the first time, Farm Rescue will have its own exhibit space at the Farm Progress Show on August 27-29 in Boone, Iowa. Generous support has made it possible to achieve greater visibility. “Our biggest challenge is awareness,” says Farm Rescue Marketing Program Manager Dan Erdmann. “This is a great opportunity for Farm Rescue to share our story and message of support to the broader farm community.” He says this is an opportunity for Farm Rescue that they’ve never had before. Farm Rescue’s display will include farm equipment from the nonprofit’s fleet that readily serves the fieldwork needs of farmers and their families in times of crisis. Equipment on display will include planting and harvesting implements and a semi-truck. For more information, go to farmrescue.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 22, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales for July will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Weather A small system is pushing a cold front through the eastern Dakotas down to western Nebraska early Thursday morning. Clusters of showers and thunderstorms are found in the Red River Valley as well as the Nebraska-Kansas border area. While storms are forecast to diminish in the south Thursday morning, they may refire as the front stalls out with the northern cluster expanding into the Upper Midwest by the evening. Some of these storms could be stronger and bring locally heavy downpours.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 21, 2024 |

American Ag Groups Call on Canadian Officials to Head of Strike Groups like the National Corn Growers Association urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to resolve a dispute between Canada’s railway executives and union leaders that could lead to a strike. A work stoppage there could interrupt rail service into the U.S. “If a strike shuts down rail service from Canada into the U.S., it will adversely impact America’s farmers who rely on rail to ship goods between the two countries,” says Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee), NCGA President. “We strongly encourage Prime Minister Trudeau, the Teamsters, and Canadian rail workers to do everything possible to avoid such a strike.” Canada is the third-largest destination for U.S. ag exports and the second-largest source of agricultural imports. The biggest concern for corn growers is a strike that could interrupt shipments of fertilizer imports and exports of ethanol, corn, and byproducts used as animal feed. Canadian law says officials can order all parties into binding arbitration. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Ranchers Required to File Ownership Information In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act, requiring businesses to report the identity of their owners. The goal is a simple one: to prevent crimes by knowing the identity of corporation owners. That means many small businesses like farms and ranches are required to comply with this. Under the Act, companies with 20 or fewer employees are required to report information about their beneficial owners, or the individuals who own at least 25 percent of the entity’s ownership interest, exercise substantial control over the entity, or receive a substantial economic benefit from the assets of the reporting entity. In more basic terms, you are a beneficial owner if you own at least 25 percent of a company, control or make major decisions for the company, or receive substantial earnings for the company. Many cattle raisers may be impacted by this law. For more information about the requirement, go to fincen.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepts Over 2.2 Million Acres of Land in Conservation Programs The USDA is accepting offers for more than 2.2 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year’s Grassland, General, and Continuous Conservation Reserve Program sign-ups administered by the Farm Service Agency. With the accepted acres, enrollment is very near the 27 million CRP acreage cap. “The popularity of our Conservation Reserve Programs, including the significant success of the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program and nearing the overall CRP acreage cap is a testament to the commitments made by the farmers, ranchers, and landowners we serve to mitigate the impacts of climate change by conserving, protecting, and enhancing our natural resources,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “It’s through all of FSA’s conservation programs that we are able to work directly with agricultural producers to implement climate-smart conservation practices that ultimately benefit everyone.” Producers can still participate in CRP through the Continuous CRP signup at their local USDA service center. ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels is Disappointed in the CARB Proposal Clean Fuels Alliance America expressed disappointment in the California Air Resource Board’s proposed amendments to its Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). If adopted, these changes would impose caps on credits for soy- and canola-based biodiesel without sufficient scientific evidence to support such limitations. By restricting credit generation for these low-carbon alternatives, CARB risks unfairly disadvantaging biodiesel and renewable diesel, which are proven solutions that reduce emissions today while supporting sustainable farming and rural economies. Limiting biodiesel and renewable diesel in favor of technologies that will not be fully scalable for many years, even by CARB’s own projections, threatens both environmental progress and innovation. “These proposed amendments impose significant restrictions on vegetable oil feedstocks, hindering the ability of clean fuels to effectively decarbonize the heavy-duty transportation sector,” says Jeff Earl, director of government affairs at Clean Fuels. “They induce stricter standards for these fuels than those applied to others, even petroleum.” *********************************************************************************** TFI Announced 2024 4R Sinners The Fertilizer Institute has announced the selection of two agricultural retailers and their partnering farmers as the 2024 4R Advocates. These four individuals are being recognized for their exceptional commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices based on the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship, which have demonstrated significant economic and environmental benefits. “Our 2024 4R Advocates are at the forefront of environmental stewardship,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Their commitment to the 4Rs – right source, rate, time, and place – is crucial for optimizing crop yield and sustainability, ensuring our ability to continue feeding the crops that feed the world.” Now in its 13th year, the 4R Advocate program highlights the in-field successes of these best management practices. The advocates collectively manage diverse cropping systems across multiple states and will participate in various TFI outreach efforts. For information on the 4R advocates and 4R Nutrient Stewardship, go to tfi.org. *********************************************************************************** CattleCon 2025 Registration is Now Open Registration is now open for CattleCon 2025, which is in San Antonio, Texas, February 4-6. This annual event is where the beef industry meets to conduct business, attend educational sessions, experience engaging speakers, and enjoy family fun. “CattleCon is the biggest industry event of the year,” says Mark Eisele (EYES-lee), president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Cattle producers from across the country will gather to make decisions, network, learn, and have some fun.” For those arriving early, there will be an immersive grazing management workshop and tour on Monday, February 3. The pre-convention tour is tailored for cattle producers aiming to deepen their expertise in effective grazing strategies. CattleCon officially kicks off on Tuesday, February 4, and the cattle industry will be hard at work guiding both Beef Checkoff and NCBA policy programs. Several registration options are available. For more information or to register and reserve housing, go to convention.ncba.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 21, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will release minutes from the latest FOMC meeting, seen as a possible source of clues about what the Fed will decide in September. Weather A trough in the Northwest continues to send energy into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms. Mild temperatures continue across the Corn Belt with sweltering heat still around Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 20, 2024 |

U.S. Beef Herd Rebuild Could Take Years The U.S. beef cow inventory has fallen to its lowest level in more than 60 years. With no significant changes on the horizon that would quickly reverse the trend, rebuilding the U.S. beef cow herd to historical norms is shaping up to be a years-long undertaking. According to a new research brief from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, current market conditions are incentivizing cow-calf producers to sell heifer calves rather than retain them for future breeding purposes. From a financial standpoint, the benefit of selling calves for immediate gain far outweighs the risks of investing in those calves to become part of their reproductive cow herd. CoBank researcher Abbi Prins says, “Given the route calf prices have gone, it's a become a no-brainer decision for some cow-calf operators to sell new crop calves for immediate cash flow,” Ultimately, calf prices will be the determining factor when it comes to whether the U.S. beef cow herd retracts further or begins to grow. *********************************************************************************** FSIS to Start H5N1 Beef Monitoring Sampling USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service plans to monitor H5N1 influenza A in dairy cows at slaughter starting next month. FSIS will leverage its existing National Residue Program and conduct H5N1 sampling in the muscle samples of dairy cow carcasses already collected for the program. Samples will be tested by FSIS laboratory personnel using polymerase chain reaction testing. Carcasses sampled under the program are held by establishments pending residue testing results. This process will not require additional holding time for carcasses beyond current residue testing protocols. In the event of a positive H5N1 finding, USDA will work with industry to ensure the carcass does not enter the food supply. HPAI is a threat to the poultry industry, animal health, human health, trade, and the economy worldwide. Since the first detection of HPAI in dairy cattle in March 2024, USDA has worked to assess the prevalence of the virus in U.S. dairy herds. *********************************************************************************** USDA Addressing Wildlife Rabies Outbreak The Department of Agriculture recently approved nearly $19 million in emergency funding to address current wildlife rabies outbreaks in multiple states. The funding allows USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to establish a sufficient stockpile of oral rabies vaccination baits and address emerging rabies cases in high-risk areas. APHIS Administrator Michael Watson says, “By reducing rabies in wildlife populations, we are safeguarding both human and animal health and decreasing the risk of disease spread.” The APHIS National Rabies Management Program controls and eliminates rabies virus in terrestrial carnivores such as raccoons, coyotes and foxes. APHIS has been able to support emergency responses in recent years using appropriated funding, but growing costs and the need to provide an increasing number of rabies responses has depleted available resources. This emergency funding is being redirected from unspent balances from previous animal and plant health emergencies. The funding will address rabies outbreaks in Alabama, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. *********************************************************************************** Cover Crop Adoption Rates Vary Across Regions The adoption rates for cover crops vary across regions and how land is managed, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Land in the Heartland region had adoption rates of around ten percent for all owner-operated, cash-rented, and share-rented fields. Land in the Northern Great Plains and Prairie Gateway regions had adoption rates of around four percent for owner-operated fields and 11 percent for cash-rented fields. The rest of the country - any land outside of the Heartland, Great Plains, and Prairie Gateway Resource regions - had 30 percent cover crop adoption for fields operated by owner-operators and 16 percent of fields operated by cash renters, respectively. No surveyed share-rented fields in the “rest of the country” region adopted cover crops. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, 18.0 million acres of cover crops were planted in 2022, which has grown over the last decade. *********************************************************************************** Danford Plant Science Center CEO to Retire Donald Danforth Plant Science Center President and CEO Jim Carrington recently announced he will step down on July 1, 2025. The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is a not-for-profit research institute with a mission to improve the human condition through plant science, located in St Louis, Missouri. Carrington says, “We've been able to do so much because of our exceptional people, our partners and our supporters. But it's time to plan for a transition.” Penny Pennington, managing partner at Edward Jones and chair of the Danforth Center Board of Directors, will lead the search for a new President. Carrington has led the Danforth Center in delivering its mission since 2011. Under his leadership, the Danforth Center has grown significantly through doubling its staff, expanding the scope of scientific research, and developing new facilities like the William H. Danforth building on the main campus and the 140-acre Field Research Site. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Decline Again The nation’s average price of gasoline declined for the third straight week, falling 4.2 cents compared to a week ago to $3.37 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is down 11.4 cents from a month ago and is 47.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 2.6 cents last week and is $3.69 per gallon—the lowest level in 940 days. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Gasoline and diesel prices continue to trail off across much of the country as summer demand fades away.” With economic concerns persisting on one of the balance of markets and with the potential of further attacks in the Middle East, oil prices have been somewhat in limbo over the last week. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand rose 0.1 percent for the week ending August 17.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 20, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but grain traders will keep track of the latest weather forecasts and are probably scouring X for reports from a Midwestern crop tour. Weather A small disturbance will bring showers into the northwestern Corn Belt Tuesday, especially in eastern South Dakota. Drier conditions are expected elsewhere, but showers could pop back up again in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 19, 2024 |

Almost One-Quarter of Farmers Don’t Have Internet Access U.S. Census data says American producers saw moderate improvement in internet access from 2017 to 2022. Across rural America, the percentage of farm operations or operator residences with internet access increased from 75.4 percent in 2017 to 78.7 percent in 2022. While many of the southeastern states still lag behind the U.S. average, most of them had significant increases in producers’ internet access over that period. There are still a surprising number of producers, at 21.3 percent, who don’t have access to the internet. This is important for government agencies and universities to understand and make sure that the information they provide is available to all producers. Many of the available options for internet access aren’t adequate for accessing precision agriculture in rural America. An FCC task force recommends a minimum performance of 100 megabits per second for downloading and 20 megabits per second for uploading to support precision agriculture. *********************************************************************************** California Proposes Credit Cap on Renewable Diesel Farm Policy News says the California Air Resources Board is proposing to cap the amount of renewable diesel made from soybean or canola oil that would qualify for the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Some of the proposed changes for California’s LCFS would also require feedstocks like soybeans to be certified as meeting sustainability criteria. The California board also wants to continue an exemption from LCFS requirements for jet fuel. That may promote the increasing use of sustainable aviation fuel. Under the proposals, companies would be eligible for LCFS credits for no more than 20 percent of their biomass-based diesel made from soybean or canola oil. In the first quarter of 2024, biofuel from soybean and canola oil accounted for about 30 percent of the renewable diesel that qualified for the credits. The American Soybean Association says the proposal would likely increase credit prices and boost fuel costs throughout California. *********************************************************************************** Court Rules Against EPA in RFS Exemption Case A Washington, D.C., Circuit Court panel vacated a swath of government decisions denying requests from small fossil fuel refineries to be temporarily exempt from the Renewable Fuel Standard. In 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency denied all pending exemption requests from small refineries, finding the only costs that could cause such economic hardship were those tied to compliance with the program, and those costs could be fully passed on to consumers. The Court wrote, “We conclude that the EPA’s rationale for denying all pending exemption requests was contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious. We therefore vacate the denial actions.” The panel’s decision comes in the wake of a Supreme Court decision overturning the long-standing Chevron deference that required courts to defer to an agency’s interpretation of a vague federal regulation. In an emailed statement, Growth Energy decried the panel’s decision and urged the EPA to meet its obligations under the RFS. ********************************************************************************** Certified Hereford Beef Names a New CEO Ernie Davis, Jr. is the new president and CEO of Certified Hereford Beef. He brings three decades of merchandising experience to his new role from across all animal proteins. Much of his experience revolves around developing premium branded opportunities to help producers add value to production and retrieve added value for their efforts. “I view Certified Hereford Beef as the best-kept secret in the marketplace,” says Davis. “It is a great eating experience with great marbling and a great story behind it.” Davis also says he’s happy to sell a premium product with a producer-based story that resonates with consumers.” Certified Hereford Beef was established in 1995 and is owned by the U.S. farmers and ranchers who make up the AHA member list. Cattle qualifying for CHB must grade USDA Choice and higher. Cattle qualifying for Premium CHB must grade in the upper two-thirds of Choice and Prime. *********************************************************************************** NCC Responds to Campaign Rhetoric on Price Gouging Recent political rhetoric in the presidential race came from the Democratic ticket and blamed the meat and poultry industry for rising meat prices. Vice President and presidential candidate Kamala Harris says the food industry’s “corporate price gouging” would be the focus of an upcoming speech. National Chicken Council Interim President Gary Kushner says he doesn’t agree with the idea of price gouging. “Americans are seeing inflation in nearly every part of their livelihoods, including rent, gas, automobiles, furniture, and not just in the meat case,” Kushner says. “Chicken prices are largely affected by supply and demand, by major input costs like corn, soybeans, energy, packaging, transportation, and by fiscal policy and burdensome government regulations and not by price gouging.” He adds that it’s time for the administration to stop using the meat and poultry industry as a scapegoat and a distraction for the root causes of inflation and significant economic challenges. *********************************************************************************** New Soybean Yield Record Set Southwest Georgia farmer Alex Harrell surpassed his own world record soybean harvest of 206.79 bushels an acre set in 2023. Now, he’s a back-to-back yield champ, growing the highest-yielding soybeans in agriculture history. He cut a bin-busting 218 bushels per acre in the Georgia Soybean Production Contest. He told Farm Journal that he never thought this year’s harvest would surpass last year’s by such a wide margin. After setting the record last year, he wanted to try again but decided to change things up. Harrell planted seeds into red clay watered by center pivot irrigation on the opposite end of the county from his previous year’s success. During the August harvest, Harrell hit 218.2856 bushels an acre on 2.58 acres, with the remainder of the field still well above 100 bushels per acre. The record soybeans averaged almost 3.1 beans per pod. His 2023 average was 2.8 beans per pod.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 19, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts. A report on U.S. leading economic indicators in July is due out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A system moving off the East Coast Monday is dragging some mild and dry conditions through the Corn Belt. The front to the system will bring some showers to the southern Delta back into the Central Plains, but the main action will be in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 16, 2024 |

July Four-Wheel Drive Tractor Sales Increase U.S. sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 18.6 percent in July compared to the year before and are up 5.2 percent year to date. That’s according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Total sales of ag tractors dropped 14 percent in July compared to 2023 and are down 12 percent year-to-date. Combine sales dipped 19 percent in July compared to 2023 and are 17.6 percent lower so far this year. “July’s uptick in four-wheel-drive tractors is a bright spot after slow sales in June and May,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “We’re still seeing softness across the subcompact tractor market after years of strong sales.” In Canada, July sales of four-wheel-drive tractors increased 88 percent compared to last year and are up 17 percent in 2024. Overall, Canadian ag tractor sales dropped 13 percent in July compared to last year and are 15 percent lower year-to-date. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Farmland Prices Up Three Percent in 2024 The average farm real estate value for Illinois in 2024 is $8,700 per acre, including the value of the land and buildings. That is 3.3 percent higher than the adjusted 2023 average of $8,420 per acre. It’s the third-highest increase since 2015. With that 3.3 percent increase in the average farm real estate value from 2023 to this year, the average Illinois farm real estate value for 2024 was 17 percent higher than the 2015 value of $7,430 ten years ago. Since 1970, the average farm real estate values have declined only eight times as compared to the previous year. There were four years when the value increased over 20 percent, the last coming in 2005. From 2015-2020, the change in values hasn’t varied as much, ranging between -1.9 percent to 1.7 percent during that period. Since 2020, the value increase averaged 5.2 percent, with 2022 the biggest increase at 10.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announced December Trade Mission to Morocco Alexis Taylor, USDA’s Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Casablanca, Morocco, December 2-5. Current and potential exporters interested in participating should apply for consideration by August 28. “This mission presents a pivotal opportunity for U.S. agribusinesses to tap into Morocco’s dynamic market and leverage its strategic position for wider African success,” Taylor says. Morocco is the second-largest export market for U.S. agriculture in Africa. Sales of American farm and food products in the country topped $619 million last year, representing 16 percent of the continent’s market share. American agricultural exports have doubled since the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 2006. “Morocco offers a stable market and growing economy and serves as a key distribution hub for the African continent,” she adds. Exporters have numerous opportunities, including in beef, dairy, feed grains, live animals, genetics, rice, seafood, soybeans, and tree fruits. ********************************************************************************** Don’t Learn Safety by Accident For the 80th time, the U.S. is holding National Farm Safety and Health Week during the third week of September, with this year’s schedule of September 15-21. Farm Safety and Health Week is a time to increase awareness of the high injury and fatality risk in agriculture and to improve agricultural health outcomes through outreach and education. Data from 2022 shows that the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industries had the highest rate of fatal work injuries compared to other occupations, at 23.5 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says the majority of those are due to incidents with transportation or equipment. Agri-Safe is supporting the cause with 11 free educational webinars during the week. Each one has a specific topic, including equipment and roadway safety, health and wellness, confined spaces, and others. For more information, go to the Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center’s website. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Advancing Beef Industry Eligible for Scholarship Applications are being accepted for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship Program. The scholarship was established in 2007 by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing careers in meat science and animal agriculture. Two $15,000 grants are awarded to graduate students who demonstrate superior achievement in academics and leadership and are committed to the advancement of the beef industry. Previous scholarship recipients recognize that the program not only benefits their work but also the entire industry. Graduate students must apply online by submitting a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a description of their goals and experience, a short essay, a statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant’s graduate research, and three letters of recommendation by September 20. The scholarship honors the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation pioneer, rancher, and statesman. For more information or to apply for the scholarship, visit nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Food Price Index Up Fractionally in July The Food Price Index increased 0.2 percent in July, as it did in June. The index for food at home rose 0.1 percent in July. Three of the six major grocery store food group indexes rose over the month, while the other three dropped during July. The meat, poultry, fish, and eggs index rose 0.7 percent, with eggs seeing the largest increase. The cereals and bakery products index dropped by 0.5 percent, and so did the dairy and related products index. The food away from home index rose 0.2 percent in July after rising 0.4 percent in the prior two months. The index for food at home rose 1.1 percent during the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 4.1 percent over the last year. The meat, poultry, fish, and eggs index had the biggest jump in the last year at three percent.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 16, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. new housing starts will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlooks is set for 2 p.m. Financial traders will continue to discuss the possibility of a rate cut in September, currently expected to be for a quarter-percent, but not set in stone. Weather A slow-moving storm system continues to move through the Midwest on Friday, producing areas of showers and thunderstorms that have resulted in some areas of heavy rain. The tail end of the front may also be active across Kansas and northern Oklahoma as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 15, 2024 |

U.S. Renewable Diesel Imports up 29 Percent in 2024 The Energy Information Administration says the U.S. imported near-record volumes of renewable diesel fuel in each of the first five months of this year, averaging about 30,000 barrels a day. The imports were 29 percent higher than the same period last year, came from one producer, Neste (NEHS-tay), and almost all shipped to the West Coast. The EIA says it’s because California, Oregon, and Washington are the only states with active clean fuel programs that incentivize consuming renewable fuel beyond the incentives of federal policies. Scott Irwin of the University of Illinois says there’s an even more important contributor to the increase in imports, calling it a race by Neste, a Finnish oil company, to take advantage of the $1 per gallon blenders tax credit (BTC) before it expires at the end of this year. Renewable diesel imports aren’t eligible when the new Clean Fuel Tax Credit replaces the BTC next year. *********************************************************************************** Limited Ag Credit Stress, but Signs of Pressure Ag credit stress was limited in the second quarter of 2024 but showed signs of tightening amid lower crop prices and rising input costs. Those are the findings from a survey by the Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City. Farm income in the Tenth Federal Reserve District dropped faster than in recent quarters amid lower crop prices and increased expenses. “Despite sharp declines in farm income and capital spending, agricultural credit stress remained limited, but signs of financial pressure have appeared,” the survey said. “Lenders reported modest deterioration in farm finances, farm loan repayment rates declined at a gradual pace, and repayment problems on farms rose slightly.” The Fed says about 60 percent of farm lenders reported income was lower than last year. Stronger cattle prices weren’t enough to offset low crop prices. Income was down across the country but states that rely on crop production saw the steepest income declines. *********************************************************************************** Farmers to Help Address Land Use Changes A new Land Use Change Initiative is leading efforts to resolve the inconsistencies in definitions, metrics, and methodologies for quantifying land use change. This multi-stakeholder initiative is funded by the United Soybean Board in partnership with Carbon A List. The effort seeks to unite every step in the value chain solution to these challenges. Farmers play an essential role in protecting our land’s natural resources through sustainable farming and conservation planning. “Our farmers have often been left out of conversations regarding land use change and its collective impact on agriculture,” says USB Chair Steve Reinhard. “We weren’t at the table, so we had to build our own table through this land use change initiative.” The Initiative started two years ago to drive collaboration. “It’s difficult to compete in the world on production alone,” says Dave Wessel, a USB Director. “A consistent land use change model would help level the playing field.” ********************************************************************************** USDA to Expand Slaughterhouse Beef Testing for Bird Flu The USDA will expand slaughterhouse testing for H5N1 in beef entering the food supply as a part of its response plan to combat the ongoing outbreak in dairy cattle. Officials say the tests will begin mid-September and urged livestock workers to remain vigilant. The Print says almost 200 herds in 13 states have contracted the virus since March after it jumped from wild birds to cows. In May, the USDA tested 109 beef samples from dairy cows sent to slaughter and found bird flu virus particles in one sample. USDA Undersecretary for Food Safety Emilio Esteban says the expanded testing will continue for the rest of this year and focus on dairy cows. Eric Deeble, deputy undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs, says USDA is confident in the existing level of bird flu testing. The USDA continues to report that meat and milk are safe for public consumption. *********************************************************************************** FBI Holds Symposium on Threats to Agriculture Farmers and ranchers from more than 30 states attended the 2024 Agriculture Threats Symposium hosted by the Omaha, Nebraska, field office. Technology continues advancing to make farming and agriculture more efficient across rural America. With more technology, there’s a potential for cyber-attacks that could affect the entire agriculture industry. FBI Agent Gene Kowel says there are four major threats to watch for. Those include criminal ransomware attacks, foreign adversaries stealing data, the potential for them to implant malware on industrial control systems and farming machinery, and lastly, the threat of bioterrorism. “People can take steps at ground level,” he says. “One is basic cyber hygiene like having multi-factor authentication for any kind of system.” Another is being willing to report any kind of attack to law enforcement. The more farmers and ranchers do that, Kowel says law enforcement has a better chance of being able to protect the entire industry. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Prices Increase Despite Downward Pressure The Purdue University Farmland Value and Cash Rent Survey showed that Indiana farmland prices once again hit a new record in 2024. The average price of top-quality farmland is $14,392, up 4.8 percent from June 2023. Average and poor-quality farmland also hit new high prices at $11,630 and $9,071 per acre, an annual increase of 3.7 and 4.4 percent, respectively. Survey respondents suggest that the price growth mostly occurred late in 2023 and began to retreat in the first half of this year. Respondents generally expect farmland prices to decline modestly through the remainder of this year. At the state level, prices in December 2024 are expected to remain just above those observed in June 2023. The survey finds a number of forces putting downward pressure on farmland prices, including interest rates and crop prices. While there is general pessimism about the rest of 2024, longer-term economic expectations aren’t as gloomy.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 15, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. A report on U.S. industrial production will be out at 8:15 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will release members' soybean crush data later Thursday morning, typically a lower figure at this time of year. Weather A storm system is moving from the Dakotas into the Upper Midwest on Thursday. The system is already producing widespread rain and thunderstorms Thursday morning in the middle of the Corn Belt that will move eastward. Additional rain and thunderstorms will develop behind these early clusters, with risks of hail and damaging winds across Illinois and Missouri later in the day and Thursday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 14, 2024 |

Officials Want Fix for Foreign-Owned Farmland Disclosure Process Senate Ag Committee members Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are asking the USDA to improve its process for foreign-owned farmland disclosures. The letter follows alleged inaccuracies posted online by the Farm Service Agency under the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act. “It’s essential for the USDA to ensure that the information published on its website is accurate and reliable,” the senators say. “Inaccurate information can have significant implications for various stakeholders and erodes public trust in the integrity of the reporting process.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the current practice of manual entry, including the re-typing of paper-filed reports into FSA systems, can lead to the publication of problematic and inaccurate information. “We’re told there have been instances where energy developers have been incorrectly identified as having ownership interest from sanctioned nations when, in reality, the investment behind the company originates from U.S. allies,” says Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Colombia Underway Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, arrived in Bogota, Colombia, this week. She’s leading a trade mission with representatives from 36 agribusinesses and organizations to enhance American agricultural exports and continue building on trade gains made since the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement was implemented in 2012. “Colombia stands out as a key growth market for U.S. agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “As South America’s second-most-populous country, Columbia is experiencing rapid growth in its middle class and consumer purchasing power.” Also, Colombian consumers are eager for the high-quality food and agricultural products that the U.S. delivers. Changes in Colombian lifestyles, including more dual-income households, interest in healthier foods, and a demand for packaged and prepared food products, all bode well for American exports. While in Colombia, U.S. agribusiness representatives will meet with potential importers from across the country. FAS staff and industry experts will provide detailed market briefings. *********************************************************************************** NACD and Trust In Food™ Affirm Partnership The National Association of Conservation Districts and Trust In Food™, a sustainability initiative, signed a letter of agreement during the NACD Summer Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts. The letter builds on recent collaborations. Both share a common ground in championing a locally-led approach to natural resource conservation and the importance of partnerships and continuous improvement. “We look forward to growing our partnership with Trust In Food™ and encourage conservation districts to participate in activities like field days and peer networking with TIF’s America’s Conservation Agriculture Movement,” says NACD President Kim LaFleur. “It’s great to have TIF with their research-backed insights into what makes producers adopt regenerative and climate-smart agricultural practices as a partner to help producers get more conservation installed through voluntary programs.” The organizations will continue working together and participating in collaborative activities, sharing what they learned and promoting events and resources to empower producers and land stewards to conserve natural resources. ********************************************************************************** Baldwin Wants STB to Review High Transportation Costs Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin called on the Surface Transportation Board to review existing exemptions for certain commodities like paper, forest products, manufactured goods, and food products. She wants the Board to take action to ensure companies that ship these goods can address harmful service and pricing issues. These outdated exemptions prohibit rail shippers from seeking recourse at the STB. Revoking the exemptions would also provide greater access to a newly finalized rule that will begin to address unreliable rail service and the high costs of rail shipping for businesses by increasing competition in the freight rail industry. Baldwin asked the Board to revisit their decades-old exemptions on the critical commodities that were put in place before the rail industry consolidated, reducing competition, raising costs, and hurting businesses in rural America. “For too long, businesses and growers had to rely on fewer and fewer rail carriers,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Impossible Foods Opens a Brick and Mortar Store Impossible Foods opened a brick and mortar foodservice concept called Impossible Quality Meats at XMarket Food Hall near uptown Chicago. CEO Peter McGinnis told Food Dive that it’s all about availability and accessibility. A lot of people think plant-based is like a warm beer or cold shower, and it’s simply not,” he says. “The opening is a physical manifestation of the brand and a creative way to bring the company’s portfolio together.” The company’s beef, chicken, and pork products will be joined with other breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Menu items will include a plant-based breakfast sausage sandwich, a Chicago-style hot dog, a grilled chicken Caesar salad or wrap, and a dessert item in collaboration with Oatly. “At the end of the day, this is all about burgers and hot dogs,” McGuiness adds. “I think this whole category has been over-intellectualized and in some cases politicized, and it’s been very partisan too.” *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma State Plans for an Agronomy Discovery Center Six million dollars in donations will help jump-start a new Agronomy Discovery Center at Oklahoma State University. As a multi-phase process, the Agronomy Discovery Center will be created through upgrades to the existing Agronomy Research Station, home to one of the world’s top wheat breeding programs. “The work conducted at the Agronomy Research Station matters, greatly affecting both producers and consumers throughout Oklahoma and beyond,” says Dr. Jayson Lusk, dean of OSU agriculture. “We’re doing state-of-the-art research, but we’re doing it in antiquated facilities.” Plans include the construction of a new headhouse and 12 research greenhouses that will become the birthplace of OSU’s new wheat breeds. Plans also include a dynamic and multipurpose Research and Education Center featuring classrooms and laboratory spaces that can accommodate industry audiences. The building will house lab spaces for the Wheat Quality Laboratory; the Soil, Water, and Forage Analytical Laboratory; and the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 14, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. consumer price index for July is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, a report will likely factor into the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision in September. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report will follow at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system is slowly moving into the Northern Plains on Wednesday. There are already areas of showers and thunderstorms out there southeast into Missouri Wednesday morning. The system slowly shifts eastward through the Western Corn Belt throughout the day with showers and thunderstorms continuing. Severe storms will be most likely in the Mid-Missouri Valley this afternoon and evening.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 13, 2024 |

USDA Forecasts Lower Corn and Higher Soybean Production The USDA’s Crop Production Report forecasted corn production to be down from 2023 and soybean production up from last year. The corn production forecast is for 15.1 billion bushels, down one percent from last year. The average corn yield forecast is a record high of 183.1 billion bushels an acre, up 5.8 bushels from 2023. Soybean growers are expected to increase their production by ten percent compared to 2023, with a record-high forecast of 4.59 billion bushels. Soybean yields are expected to average a record high of 53.2 bushels per acre, up 2.6 bushels from 2023. The all wheat production is forecast to be 1.98 billion bushels, nine percent higher than last year. Monday’s report also included the first cotton forecast of the season. The all-cotton forecast is for 15.1 million 480-pound bales, up 25 percent from last year. Yield is expected to average 840 pounds per acre, 59 pounds under 2023. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Debby Damage Impact at $28 Billion A preliminary estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Debby is $28 billion. AccuWeather says Debby’s first landfall as a hurricane in Florida and second as a tropical storm in South Carolina and its impacts on the eastern U.S. will be widespread and long-lasting. Flooding hit both the coastal areas and extended inland. The hardest-hit locations experienced a foot or more of rain in only one or two days, leading to devastating flooding that damaged homes and businesses, even taking lives in the process. Some of the highest rain amounts reported included 21.06 inches in Tatem Ridge, Florida, 18.25 inches in Summerville, South Carolina, 15.25 inches in Kings Grant, North Carolina, and 13.87 inches in Rincon, Georgia. The highest wind gust reported in the storm was 99 miles per hour in Horseshoe Beach, Florida, and the highest storm surge was 6.11 feet in Cedar Key, Florida. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Asks Government to Preempt Colombian Trade Barriers The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council are asking the U.S. government to leverage all available tools if Colombia implements countervailing tariffs on U.S. milk powder exports. They made the request in a letter sent Friday to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Colombia’s recent decision to initiate an unwarranted Subsidies and Countervailing Measures investigation into U.S. milk powder exports is a tariff threat without merit. The dairy groups note that no causal link exists between U.S. milk powder exports and the injury alleged by Colombian officials. The letter also explains that imported milk powder products and domestically produced fluid milk are not interchangeable ingredients in a food manufacturing facility. “Initiating unfounded investigations undermines any progress and is a step backward in our trade relationship,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “We appreciate U.S. officials for recognizing this is baseless.” ********************************************************************************** August WASDE Calls for Lower Corn, Higher Soybean Ending Stocks The 2024-2025 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report is calling for larger corn supplies, lower domestic use, greater exports, and smaller ending stocks. Corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, 47 million higher than last month. Ending stocks are forecast down 24 million bushels to 2.1 billion. The season-average corn price dropped a dime to $4.20 a bushel. The outlook for soybeans includes higher production, exports, and ending stocks. Production is forecast at 4.6 billion bushels, 154 million higher than in July. Ending stocks are forecast at 560 million bushels, 125 million more than last month. The season-average soybean price dropped 30 cents to $10.80 per bushel. The wheat outlook is for lower supplies, slightly higher domestic use, unchanged exports, and smaller ending stocks. Projected ending stocks are down 28 million bushels to 828 million. The season-average farm price is unchanged from last month at $5.70 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Junior Hereford Association Holds Faces of Leadership Conference Members of the National Junior Hereford Association attended the 2024 Faces of Leadership Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, in late July. The Faces of Leadership conference is designed to help NJHA members hone communications, team-building, and other skills essential to becoming effective leaders. This year, 115 members from 25 states attended the event. “Good leaders know how to lead themselves first,” says NJHA vice chairman Haley Mouser. “The hat you should never take off in your life is living every day with a purpose.” Participants had several learning opportunities, including livestock handling and processing, presented by the Texas Christian University Ranch Management Program. “Faces of Leadership is a tool to not only build leaders but to get these young people started on a successful career path,” says Amy Cowan, director of youth activities for the American Hereford Association. “We hope they stay in agriculture but want to help them be successful.” *********************************************************************************** Cattle Feedlots Have Challenges Ahead Dr. Glynn Tonsor, a livestock market economist at Kansas State University Extension, says cattle feedlots may have tough times ahead. He told the Radio Oklahoma Network that his most recent feedlot study doesn’t look healthy for the beef cattle industry from this fall into early next year. He warned of red ink for the feedlot business beginning in September and continuing through next spring. “The returns are projected to be negative,” he says. “The main reason is, yes, fed cattle prices are expected to go up, but nowhere near the rate that the incoming feeder cattle prices have gone up.” He says the main profit drivers for feedlots are what they pay for cattle coming in, how much it costs to feed them, and what they bring at sale time. If they pay more on incoming cattle than they make on sale day, margins get squeezed, which he predicts from September-March.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 13, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders will continue to digest USDA's new WASDE and Crop Progress estimates from Monday. The U.S. producer price index for July is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, offering an early peek at Wednesday's report on consumer prices. Weather A disturbance moving through Kansas is producing a cluster of thunderstorms early Tuesday morning. The cluster is forecast to die out Tuesday afternoon as it moves into Missouri, but leaves behind a zone for more showers and thunderstorms to develop Tuesday evening. Another disturbance moving into the Plains will aid that and other thunderstorms farther north and west, some of which could be severe.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 12, 2024 |

Confusion Possible About Monday Acreage Updates Lance Honig, Chair of the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board, says there seems to be some confusion about a heads-up that USDA gave to commodities traders. The agency issued a notice reminding them acreage updates for corn and soybeans could come in the August reports that are due on Monday, August 12. Some traders took this to mean changes are coming, but Honig says that’s not necessarily the case. He said the heads-up was intended to be a process reminder. “It’s the same process we’ve been using for years,” he notes. “It’s just coming earlier as the processing improvements in the Farm Service Agency’s reporting have made the planting data more complete quicker than in the past.” The Chair of the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board says while the FSA data is highly valuable for planted acreage numbers, it is of very limited value for harvested acreage at this point in the season. *********************************************************************************** BLM Announces Next Steps in Public Lands Rule Implementation The Bureau of Land Management announced its intent to develop a Federal Advisory Committee to engage the public and help inform the BLM’s implementation of the Public Lands Rule. The committee will allow the agency to continue working with and hearing from a range of experts and the public to support successful rule implementation. “The Public Lands Rule provides essential tools to help the Bureau improve and conserve the health of the lands we’ve been entrusted with for present and future generations,” says BLM Director Tracy Manning-Stone. In the weeks ahead, BLM will publish a call for nominations and a charter for the committee to the Federal Register. The BLM also released a set of initial guidance documents to support clear and consistent implementation of the rule across the Bureau’s 12 state and 175 field offices. The guidance documents will give direction to field personnel on how the rule will work. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Industry Leaders React to Rancher Persecution Leaders of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council were not happy about the indictment of Charles and Heather Maude, family ranchers in western South Dakota. “I’m deeply disgusted by the Forest Service’s persecution of Charles and Heather,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). On June 20, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Dakota indicted them on charges of theft of government property related to a small piece of Forest Service land surrounded by the Maude’s private land. The family has stewarded that government land for generations. “The Forest Service’s deference to the heavy-handed special agent with a long history of abusing permittees is unconscionable,” says NCBA V.P. of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. The groups say the Forest Service has a long and shameful history of confronting ranchers in South Dakota, and their escalation to imprisonment over a century-old fence line has shaken the confidence of every permittee. ********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Show Bipartisan Support for Sugar Policy In a bipartisan show of support for U.S. sugar policy, Representatives Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) all spoke at the International Sweetener Symposium in Washington. Each of the members noted the importance of agriculture, particularly sugarbeets, to their region of the country. Sugar production has a significant impact on the Pacific Northwest’s economy. In Washington state, sugarbeets drive $28 million in yearly economic impact, and in Oregon, sugarbeets have $128 million worth of economic impact. Farmers across all commodities are facing rising production costs and greater weather challenges that have made it harder for family farms to survive. “As one of the few farmers in Congress, I understand those unique challenges our producers face,” Newhouse said. “I know that passing a farm bill is of utmost importance to our farm economy.” Newhouse expressed support for the strengthened provisions in the House Agriculture Committee’s farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Health Insurance Webinar for Farmers and Small Businesses Healthcare costs are a significant burden for farmers and small businesses. A Penn State University Extension webinar is aimed at helping participants better understand the available options. The webinar titled “Smart Choice, Smart Use Health Insurance: Options for Farmers and Small Businesses” takes place from noon to 1:30 pm Eastern Time on September 5. The session is designed for farmers and small business owners, those with fewer than 50 employees, who are interested in learning about available insurance options. The webinar will cover health insurance options as they relate to farmers and small businesses, items to consider when selecting health insurance, and sources for more information on health insurance options. By making smart choices, farmers and small business owners can ensure that their health and the well-being of their businesses are protected. The webinar is free but registration by noon ET on September 5 is required. More information is at extension.psu.edu. *********************************************************************************** Corn Sales for Export Rise USDA data shows corn sales jumped week-to-week, while wheat sales were narrowly lower. Corn sales in the seven days ending on August 1 were reported at 485,000 metric tons. USDA says that’s up from 168,000 metric tons the week before and is a 32 percent increase from the prior four-week average. Mexico was the big buyer at 309,400 metric tons. Sales for the upcoming marketing year that starts September 1 totaled 249,000 metric tons. Soybean sales hit 325,400 metric tons, two percent higher than the previous week and 66 percent from the average. China was the top buyer at 134,500 metric tons. Sales for the next marketing year totaled 985,200 tons. Wheat sales fell four percent weekly to 274,000 metric tons. That’s down 23 percent from the average total for this time of year. Taiwan was the top wheat buyer at 105,700 metric tons, while Japan bought just over 63,000 tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 12, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, DTN Digital Yield Tour Kick Off the Week 1. DTN Digital Yield Tour: The seventh annual DTN Digital Yield Tour will run August 13-16. This year's tour will have a slight change, featuring corn and soybean predictions from new DTN-developed yield models, including our proprietary historical weather data, plus insights from farmers, agronomists and others from around the Corn Belt. Watch for continued coverage throughout the week, including a full take on changes for the 2024 Tour. 2. WASDE Monday: The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report is revealed at 11:00 a.m. Monday. We will have our flash report immediately after the numbers are made public, with continuing updates and analysis through the morning. 3. FSA Acreage Report. Monday we'll also see the first actual acreage report for the 2024 crop season from Farm Service Agency. The acreage data will be released at 12:00 p.m. and is based on farmer-reported categorization of acres as planted, prevented planted or failed. It's the first look of the season on what flooding and wet conditions had on farmers' ability to plant the land they intended to plant in 2024. 4. Weather For the Week: We'll be watching the continued chance of early frosts in northern Canada prairies, and how the cold front creating those conditions plays out throughout the upper US plains. Cooler temperatures in the Midwest and central and southern Plains states early in the week lessen the chance for rain; we'll see temps climb again later in the week. Conditions are hot and dry in the Delta, a drain on soil moisture there. A front moving into the region will stall out going into next week, but models disagree whether that will produce any rain. 5. Economic Reports This Week: Monday, Grain Inspections reports are out at 10 a.m., followed by the 11 a.m. WASDE and Crop Production reports. At 11:15 a.m. we'll see the latest Grains and World Grain, Cotton and Oilseed stocks and trade report. At 12:00 p.m. FSA releases the acreage report, then at 1 p.m. we'll see the Monthly Federal Budget report, then the weekly Crop Progress report hits at 3 p.m., followed by our analysis of the report. Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. the Producer Price Index and Core PPI are released. At 11 a.m. we'll see the Feedgrain Database updates, then at 2 p.m. we'll see Wheat Data and latest County Estimates for Hogs, as well as the Season Average Price forecasts from the Economic Research Service. Wednesday reports start at 7:30 a.m. with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI. At 8:15 a.m. the Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization reports are out. At 9:30 a.m. we'll see EIA's Weekly Petroleum including ethanol statistics, then Broiler and Turkey hatchery numbers are at 2 p.m. Thursday starts at 7:30 a.m. with Grain Export Sales, Housing Starts and Building Permits, Initial Jobless Claims Retail Sales and the latest Import Price Index. At 8:15 a.m. we'll see Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization, followed by Business Inventories data at 9 a.m. Friday reports begin at 7:30 a.m. with Housing Starts and Building Permits. At 9 a.m. we'll have Consumer Sentiment indexes and the Home Builder Confidence Index. At 2:30 p.m. the CFTC Commitment of Traders report is out.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 9, 2024 |

Petition to Clarify Labels on Farm Products A coalition of attorneys general is urging the Environmental Protection Agency to implement a new rule that would create uniform labeling requirements on pesticide products across the country. By streamlining the process and preempting misbranding in states like California, the rule would lift the burdens currently placed on farmers across the country. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act allows each state to create separate requirements that manufacturers must include when labeling their products. In some instances, manufacturers are forced to label products with health information that’s inconsistent with EPA’s findings about the product’s health effects. California’s Prop 65 forces manufacturers to label products containing glyphosate as likely carcinogenic, even though the EPA findings disagree. The proposed rule would preempt Prop 65 and declare that any state labeling requirements inconsistent with the EPA’s findings would constitute misbranding under FIFRA. The current patchwork labeling requirements have led to needless, years-long litigation. *********************************************************************************** EPA Investigating Used Cooking Oil Imports The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating the supply chain of at least two renewable fuel producers amid industry concerns that some may be using fraudulent feedstocks for biodiesel to secure government subsidies. Farm Policy News says the EPA declined to elaborate further or identify the companies being targeted because the investigations are ongoing. A flood of used cooking oil from China and elsewhere is causing several senators to question whether some of the shipments meant to supply the biofuel market may be fraudulent. Producing biodiesel from sustainable ingredients like cooking oil can earn refiners a number of state, federal, and environmental climate subsidies, including tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Investigators are trying to determine whether some supplies labeled as used cooking oil are cheaper and less sustainable virgin palm oil that’s been associated with deforestation and other environmental damage. Cooking oil imports reached three billion pounds in 2023. *********************************************************************************** New Plant to Turn Milk into Ethanol A Canadian company that got its start distilling a milk byproduct into spirits and a large cooperative owned by Great Lakes dairy farmers broke ground on a new Michigan plant that will unite their businesses to make ethanol. While most U.S. ethanol is corn-based, Ontario-based Dairy Distillery and the Michigan Milk Producers Association have a different idea. They’re building a new facility near Constantine, Michigan, which will repurpose milk permeate, a byproduct of dairy goods production. “Utilizing milk permeate to produce low-carbon ethanol is an innovative solution to reduce our carbon footprint and provide dairy farmers with more value for their milk,” says Omid McDonald, Dairy Distillery CEO. The $41 million plant will go online in 2025 and take 14,000 tons of the dairy byproduct, using it to produce 2.2 million gallons of ethanol. “This marks a significant step forward in sustainability,” says MMPA President and CEO Joe Diglio. ********************************************************************************** Beef Export Value Climbs in June June exports of U.S. beef reached the highest value in nearly two years. Data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation shows beef exports totaling 110,155 metric tons, down four percent from 2023 but the second-largest total in 2024. Export value reached $938.3 million, up three percent year-over-year and the highest level since August 2022. Despite a four percent volume decline through the first half of 2024, the export value climbed five percent to $5.22 billion. “June beef exports performed well in Japan despite the headwinds beef faced there,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. June pork exports totaled 224,392 metric tons, down nine percent from 2023 and the lowest level since September. Pork export value fell five percent to $659.7 million. However, the January-June volume still reached 1.52 million metric tons, three percent above the first half of 2023, while the export value increased five percent to $4.26 billion. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Persist in the Missouri River Basin July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 2.8 million acre-feet, 85 percent of the average, with below-average runoff in the upper three reaches and below-average in the lower three reaches. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 23.9 million acre-feet, 93 percent of average. “July brought warmer and drier weather to the Missouri River Basin,” says John Remus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “While every state experienced storms that produced small pockets of above average rainfall, overall precipitation was below normal for the basin.” The July 30 drought monitor shows that 59 percent of the Basin is in abnormally dry or worse category. Soils are drier than normal in the western portion of the basin and wetter than normal in the eastern parts of the basin. System storage peaked on July 11 at 57 million acre-feet. August 1 storage was 56.5 MAF. *********************************************************************************** Food Safety Guidelines After Hurricane Debby Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack directed the USDA to aid recovery efforts for farmers, ranchers, and residents affected by Hurricane Debby, which continues tracking up the East Coast. The Food Safety and Inspection Service says during a power outage, a refrigerator will keep food at a safe temperature for up to four hours. A full freezer will hold a safe temperature for about 48 hours or 24 hours if it’s half full. Drink only bottled water that hasn’t been in contact with flood water. Screw caps aren’t waterproof, so discard any bottled water that may have contacted flood water. Discard any food and beverages that aren’t in a waterproof container if there’s any chance it’s contacted flood water. Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort pouches such as flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches can be saved by following FSIS website instructions. For more information, go to fsis.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 9, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT, Stats Canada will release monthly employment data, an important factor for the Bank of Canada's interest rate decisions. There are no other significant reports Friday, but traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts, global stock markets and the situation between Iran and Israel. Weather The remnants of Tropical Storm Debby are moving into the Northeast for Friday where it will produce some heavy rain. A front stalled across the Southern Plains will produce scattered showers there as well. But much of the country will be cooler and quieter.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 8, 2024 |

USDA Updates Farm Loan Programs The USDA announced changes to the Farm Service Agency’s Farm Loan Programs that take effect on September 25, 2024. The changes are intended to increase opportunities for farmers and ranchers to be financially viable. These improvements are part of the Enhancing Program Access and Delivery for Farm Loans rule. “USDA recognizes that Farm Service Agency’s loan making and servicing activities are critical for producers, especially in tough times,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Providing borrowers the financial freedom to increase profits, save for long-term needs, and make strategic investments is the best way the nation’s farmers and ranchers can build financial equity and resilience.” Notable policy changes include providing all eligible loan applicants access to flexible repayment terms that can increase profitability and help build working capital reserves and savings. The change also establishes a new low-interest installment set-aside program for financially distressed borrowers. For more information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** The SAF Coalition Welcomes Amazon as a New Member The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition announced that Amazon has joined its expanding membership. The tech leader’s inclusion underscores the commitment to advancing SAF as a key element to improve the efficiency and environmental impact of jet fuel, create domestic jobs, and enhance American energy independence. “We are thrilled that Amazon has joined the SAF Coalition,” says Coalition Executive Director Alison Graab. “Their addition marks a pivotal moment for our collective efforts to scale up SAF production and create a more sustainable future.” Amazon has a significant presence in the logistics and transportation sectors, so the SAF Coalition is looking forward to the insights the company will bring. The SAF Coalition has grown to more than 50 organizations across the SAF value chain since its launch earlier this year. The Coalition encompasses airports, airlines, and many other economic segments and advocates for policies and incentives to rapidly increase the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels. *********************************************************************************** Senators Urge Ag Secretary to Improve Drought Response Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and Kansas Senator Roger Marshall sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to adapt USDA’s drought mitigation programs to provide sufficient resources to western farmers and ranchers. The letter details testimony and recommendations given by Colorado and Kansas producers, water experts, and state health officials from a field hearing in Colorado. “Producers told us they can’t survive the current drought levels unless we make serious changes in how we address it,” says Bennet. “Their testimonies were invaluable, and now we need assistance from our USDA programs and upcoming farm bill to reflect those challenges.” The letter specifically addresses multiple USDA programs that could be improved, including the Conservation Reserve Program and several others. The letter also recommends increased investment in water conservation research and the scaling of innovative and voluntary water conservation approaches, like the pilot program in Bennet’s Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act. ********************************************************************************** Stakeholders Support Stronger Sugar Policy Sugar is a vital ingredient in our national food supply, and U.S. farmers, workers, and food manufacturers support the sugar policy provisions in the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024.” Randy Green, speaking on behalf of the Sweetener Users Association at the 39th annual International Sweetener Symposium, called the bill “responsive and positive” and would result in more American-made sugar. “We view the bill as a balanced package,” Green said. “It seems to us that the Ag Committees have been responsive to the needs of both growers and users.” The American Sugar Alliance continues to assert that a stronger sugar policy would better reflect the current economic realities affecting sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and workers. That’s vital to ensuring that American farmers and workers can continue to grow and refine the sugar crops that supply American food manufacturers. Domestic sugar production fills about 75 percent of America’s sugar needs. *********************************************************************************** Public Health and Animal Agriculture Leaders Come Together The National Pork Board partnered with the National Institute for Animal Agriculture to convene a group of public health, animal health, and swine professionals in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The goal was to build relationships and explore opportunities for One Health collaborations. The event was sponsored by the Pork Checkoff, with the support of several state pork associations and producers from Minnesota and South Dakota. The One Health farm-to-fork experience spanned all phases of swine production, including a feed mill, truck wash, and processing plants in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa. The educational tour focused on biosecurity, animal well-being, and sustainability to help create a necessary dialogue between human health, animal health, and food safety professionals. “This Checkoff investment is evidence of our holistic approach to connecting directly with our colleagues in the public health sector,” says Heather Fowler, director of producer and public health at NPB. *********************************************************************************** Tyson Foods Third-Quarter Sales Improve Tyson Foods, the maker of Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farms, and Ball Park products, says its fiscal third-quarter sales rose year-over-year, and per-share earnings surged. Sales in the three months ending on June 29 totaled $13.4 billion, up 1.6 percent from the same quarter in 2023. The company says revenue was up 0.5 percent to $39.7 billion in the first nine months of Tyson’s fiscal year. Third-quarter sales in the company’s beef segment rose to $5.24 billion from $4.96 billion, and pork sales increased by 10 percent to $1.46 billion. Meanwhile, chicken segment sales were down to $4.08 billion from $4.21 billion in the same quarter during the previous year. Adjusted earnings jumped to $0.87 a share in the quarter, up from $0.15 a year earlier. For the nine months of the fiscal year ending June 29, earnings were $2.18 a share versus 97 cents the previous year.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 8, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and concerns about Iran possibly preparing an attack on Israel. Weather Tropical Storm Debby moved back onshore in South Carolina early Thursday morning and will bring heavy rain there northward into Virginia for the rest of the day. A cold front is bringing a reinforcing shot of cooler air to the Corn Belt and areas northwest as well. The front is mysteriously dry across the Eastern Belt but is producing heavier rainfall in Kansas Thursday morning. Showers may continue in the Central Plains through Thursday evening, getting farther south later in the day and overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 7, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Improves Despite Financial Concerns All three broad-based measures of farmer sentiment improved in the July Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The index rose eight points from June to 113. The Index of Current Conditions increased 10 points to 100. The Index of Future Expectations rose seven points from June to 119. Farmer sentiment improved in July despite declines in corn and soybean prices from mid-June to mid-July. The July survey showed that higher input costs remain the biggest concern to 34 percent of the respondents. Also, 29 percent of the respondents cited lower crop and livestock prices as their number one concern. The Farm Financial Performance Index dropped four points in July to 81, six points lower than July 2023. Despite concerns about farms’ financial performance, the Farm Capital Investment Index rose six points in July to 38. However, at seven points lower than July 2023, it does remain at a weak level. *********************************************************************************** Large Loss of Midwest Farmland The loss of agricultural land to different types of development is a long-standing topic at the national and state level. The University of Illinois’ Farmdoc Daily says development accounted for 55 percent of the 1.6 million acres lost in eight Midwestern states during the 21st Century. The states include Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The National Land Cover Database says agricultural land in the eight Midwest states dropped from 150,312,467 acres in 2001 to 148,716,812 acres in 2021. That’s a total drop of almost 1.6 million acres. Of that number, 877,386 acres were converted to developed land, likely due to urbanization, infrastructure expansion, or other development activities. Development accounted for the biggest loss in Iowa, totaling 90 percent of the lost farmland between 2001 and 2021. Illinois lost the largest number of acres at 155,653. Almost 81 percent of lost land occurred because of urban area expansion. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Coalition Sends Letter on 2,4-D Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) and 20 of their bipartisan colleagues wrote a letter to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo regarding 2,4-D imports from China and India. The officials cite the International Trade Commission’s antidumping and countervailing investigations. Senator Grassley, a self-proclaimed free trader who’s long worked to combat Chinese dumping, welcomed the news. The lawmakers noted the importance of maintaining producers’ access to adequate 2,4-D supplies amid higher costs for inputs like fertilizers and declining farm income projections. “We’re asking the Department of Commerce to carefully review the facts as it calculates any preliminary duties during this investigation,” the letter says. “Given that there is only one domestic source of 2,4-D with a limited capacity to meet domestic demand, American agricultural producers have to rely on imports to supplement their management plans.” Any changes to the duties on the products may have significant impacts on farmers. ********************************************************************************** House, Senate Ag Leaders Show Support for U.S. Sugar Policy The bipartisan, bicameral leaders of the congressional Agriculture Committees reiterated their support for U.S. sugar policy during the International Sweetener Symposium. “Sugar is so important,” says House Ag Committee Ranking Member David Scott. “We can do without a lot of things, but the one thing we cannot do without is sugar.” The American Sugar Alliance, which sponsors the symposium, says these folks are the primary architects of the next farm bill. “The message I heard loud and clear is that our farmers are struggling, and the safety net is inadequate,” says House Ag Chair GT Thompson. “Between low commodity prices and high input costs, the margin squeeze is getting more serious as the days go by.” Thompson also says his farm bill proposal delivers critical policy improvements for domestic growers and processors. “Sugar is sweet, but your role in the American economy is sweeter,” said Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow. *********************************************************************************** Soy-Based Asphalt at the Farm Progress Show The Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa, will unveil new advances in soy-based technologies. The Iowa Soybean Association, in partnership with Iowa State University and the Farm Progress Show, announced the completion of an enhanced soy-based asphalt project at the heart of the Central Iowa Fairgrounds near Boone. The 42,560 square foot asphalt base is a continuation of an initial project unveiled at the 2022 Farm Progress Show. “Infrastructure and demand are two priorities for our soybean farmers,” says Suzanne Shirbroun, ISA President. “Soy’s incorporation in asphalt enhances the product’s durability and longevity and reduces maintenance costs.” At the same time, she said it also increases demand for soybean oil, improves the product’s environmental footprint, and benefits the fairgrounds as well. “We’re creating an enhanced experience for visitors by upgrading the Varied Industries Tent area with this asphalt,” says Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress Show Manager. The Show runs August 27-29. *********************************************************************************** AFT Releases Bilingual Transfer Curriculum American Farmland Trust released a new resource that’s available in English and Spanish to build the skills and knowledge of beginning farmers and ranchers participating in a transfer. The “Transitioning Land to a New Generation: Land Transfer Training” curriculum helps to face a pressing need as almost 300 million acres of American agricultural lands are expected to change hands in the coming decades. As aging farmers and ranchers retire, the incoming generation is struggling to afford to enter it, putting land at risk of changing to non-farm uses. Few tools exist to help cultivate relationships and plan for conversations involved in a farm or ranch transfer. “The Land Transfer Training is designed to meet people where they are and to be adaptable while still building off of steps that are universal,” says Erica Goodman, AFT Farms for a New Generation Director. Both the Spanish and English versions are at farmland.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 7, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday with interest in ethanol production after hitting a record high last week. At 11 a.m., USDA will release its monthly report of Livestock and Meat International Trade data. Outside markets were calmer Tuesday, but traders may remain leery after Monday's global sell-off. Weather Tropical Storm Debby may be offshore, but it continues to send rainbands into the Carolinas for Wednesday, adding to the flooding dangers there while it likely gathers strength before coming back ashore in South Carolina on Thursday. A system in Manitoba is pushing a cold front through the Northern Plains and is producing scattered showers and thunderstorms and another burst of cooler air.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 6, 2024 |

National FFA Reaches a Significant Membership Milestone The National FFA Organization has reached a record-breaking milestone of more than one million members. The current membership number is 1,027,273, up 8.6 percent from last year. National FFA, a nationally recognized school-based student leadership development organization, says states that have shown the largest membership percentage growth this past year are Utah, Florida, and Alaska. “It’s so exciting to watch this generation continue to find their place in agricultural education and FFA,” says National FFA CEO Scott Stump. “We know there are many opportunities in the field of agriculture – from being a leader in your community to filling the need in the talent pipeline in one of more than 350 careers in agriculture.” The organization believes in the future of its members and is also seeing a lot of opportunities in the years ahead. Utah saw a 172 percent growth in membership, Florida jumped 116 percent, and Alaska’s membership grew by 74 percent. *********************************************************************************** CBO Says House Farm Bill Cost Will Raise Deficit The Congressional Budget Office released an official cost estimate of the House Ag Committee’s farm bill and said it’s $33 billion over budget and fails to pay for a large increase in crop subsidies. House Ag Chair GT Thompson says if the CBO doesn’t change its mind, he’ll rely instead on the House Budget Committee to overrule the CBO. The CBO cost estimate, released last Friday, creates a large obstacle to passing a farm bill that Congress is already 10 months late in passing. The House bill will increase commodity supports by $45 billion over ten years, cut SNAP funding by $29 billion, and greatly restrict USDA’s use of Commodity Credit Corporation funds for discretionary spending. Thompson says the proposed limitations on the $30 billion USDA reserve would save more than enough money to offset the expense of increasing the reference prices that trigger crop subsidy payments by 15 percent. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Has an Important Reminder for Producers The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association reminds cattle producers to consult their tax attorneys regarding the Corporate Transparency Act as key deadlines approach at the end of this year. The Act was passed by Congress in 2021 and requires companies to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, a division of the U.S. Treasury. The legislation’s goal is to reduce financial crimes, but the new mandate will impact farmers and ranchers whose operations have fewer than 20 employees and are structured as corporations like Limited Liability Companies. “Farmers and ranchers need to speak with their tax attorneys to make sure they aren’t in violation of this new law and to submit the necessary information to the Network before the December 31 deadline,” says NCBA Tax and Credit Committee Vice Chair Jeff Magee. “Failure to meet the deadlines carries a fine of $500 per day and possible jail time.” ********************************************************************************** Farm Land Values Up Five Percent USDA says the value of all farm real estate increased five percent compared to last year. The average price is $4,170 per acre, and that includes buildings and other facilities. Cropland values increased to $5,570 per acre from last year. That’s a jump of $350 per acre, more than 4.7 percent higher. The average pasture value was $1,830 an acre, up 5.2 percent, or $90 per acre, compared to 2023. Farmers paid an average price of $160 per acre to rent cropland. Renting irrigated ground averaged $245 an acre. Dryland rents were about $146 per acre on average. Most states saw higher cropland values. The Corn Belt saw cropland values climb by an average of 4.5 percent, reaching $8,560 an acre. In the Northern Plains, average cropland value rose 6.6 percent to $4,040 per acre. Colorado, Montana, and New Jersey were the only states to see a decrease. *********************************************************************************** Soybean Seeding Rates are Declining in Farm Country Changes in technology and higher seed costs have shifted the way farmers plant soybeans in the United States. Between 1997 and 2018, soybean seeding rates – the number of seeds planted per acre – declined by 22 percent on America’s farms. In 1997, farmers planted an average of more than 200,000 soybean seeds per acre. The seeding rates fell to 192,000 in 2002 and eventually to 157,000 in 2018. The decline in seeding rates was accompanied by an increase in row widths or the distance between planting rows. From 1997 to 2002, the average U.S. soybean row width dropped from 17 to 16 inches. Widths suddenly increased to 18 inches in 2006 and then to 20 inches in 2012. They’re currently estimated at 20 inches as of 2018. Costs of seed on a per-acre basis increased, creating incentives for farmers to plant fewer seeds. Soybean yields increased by 20 percent from 2002-2018. *********************************************************************************** Turning the Tables on H5N1 in Cattle USDA scientists have completed animal challenge studies showing that infecting dairy cows with H5N1 in a laboratory setting can trigger clinical signs of disease similar to those of naturally infected animals on farms. Understanding more about how this virus infects cows and how the disease progresses in the animals is essential to developing vaccines. While the study size was limited, the scientists’ validation of a reliable challenge model offers an important step towards filling crucial knowledge gaps that remain, including how to prevent the spread of H5N1. USDA continues to set up additional studies with more animals and additional endpoints. The virus associated with the dairy cattle outbreak was first detected in a Texas dairy cow on March 25, 2024. Since then, 172 confirmed cases of infected dairy cows have taken place in 13 states. The Centers for Disease Control continues to emphasize the human health risk is low.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 6, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders will keep their eyes on the financial markets, watching to see how far the current selling spree will go. The U.S. trade deficit for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and USDA will use the same source to publish more specific export data for ag commodities later Tuesday morning. Weather Tropical Storm Debby is slowly moving through the Southeast, bringing heavy rain. The storm center may move offshore today and keep its strength. Farther north, there is one system moving through the Eastern Corn Belt with scattered showers for Michigan into Ohio and Pennsylvania while another system in the Canadian Prairies pushes a front into the Northern Plains. All three areas will be watched for potential severe weather.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

FTC to Study High Food Prices The U.S. Federal Trade Commission will look into why grocery prices are still high despite falling costs for retailers. FTC Chair Lina Khan made the announcement during a public meeting with officials from the Justice Department on pricing practices. When the FTC votes to authorize the study, major U.S. grocery chains would be required to provide information on their costs and their prices of common products. Food prices have risen by 25 percent between 2019 and 2023. U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics say that’s a faster rate of increase than in other consumer goods and services. Reuters says an FTC study showed food prices for U.S. consumers rose 11 percent between 2021 and 2022, while profits for food retailers went up more than six percent. “We want to make sure that major businesses aren’t exploiting their power to inflate prices for American families at the grocery store,” Kahn says. *********************************************************************************** USTR Sets Timing for Tariff Hikes The Biden administration recently proposed tariff increases on goods entering the country from China. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative will make its final determination later this month. In May, the administration announced plans to raise Section 301 tariff rates on select goods from China, including electric vehicles, solar cells, and semiconductors. Supply Chain Dive reports that the White House’s reasoning for increasing the duties was to improve America’s competitive standing in the clean energy and technology sector, a major Biden administration focus. During the recent comment period, the National Retail Federation said the tariff increases would lead to further price increases for U.S. companies and potential retaliation by China against U.S. exports. The National Association of Manufacturers said the tariff increases were “not sufficient” to offset unfair trade practices outside the U.S. Several legislators said beyond the domestic impact, the increases could also negatively affect operations at U.S. ports. *********************************************************************************** USGC Elects New Chair The U.S. Grains Council elected Verity Ulibarri (VER-ih-tee you-lih-BAR-ee) as its new Chairwoman during the USGC’s 64th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. “We are thrilled to see Verity elected as chairwoman of the U.S. Grains Council,” says Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “She’s a former Sorghum Checkoff Chairwoman, and her leadership is exceptional.” Ulibarri operates a family farm in New Mexico, producing sorghum, wheat, forage crops, and cattle while also working as the agribusiness relationship manager at American AgCredit. “This industry is a higher calling,” she said. “Farming is getting your hands dirty, praying for favorable weather, and managing and mitigating hazards while having extreme amounts of capital at risk and hoping for the best to build a brighter future.” The delegates also elected Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board as vice chairman and Jay Reiners of the Nebraska Corn Board as secretary-treasurer. ********************************************************************************** Summer Heat to Last Well Into Fall AccuWeather long-range forecasters say intense summer heat is expected to last well into Autumn across much of America. That means an increased risk of wildfires and severe weather. “Fall is going to feel more like an extended summer for millions of Americans this year,” says long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok. “Much of the country will experience a delayed transition to cooler temperatures this year following a summer with some intense heat.” He also says record-high temperatures were shattered in several cities this year across California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and North Carolina this summer, with the possibility of more record temperatures in the fall. Long-range forecasters say the highest temperature departures are expected across parts of the Great Lakes region, the Midwest, and the Rockies. The only areas that won’t see those high temperatures include Florida, parts of coastal Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina, and the coastal areas of the Pacific Northwest. *********************************************************************************** Raised with Respect Cattle Campaign Now in Year Two Increasing consumer confidence in how beef is raised in the U.S. can be a tall task. However, due to ranchers investing time in Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training, progress is being made one certification at a time. Raised with Respect™ is a campaign first launched in 2023 by Sysco and Certified Angus Beef. The campaign used BQA as the conduit to talk about cattle care efforts with chefs and consumers purchasing beef. “We set out to support the work being done by farmers and ranchers to care for their cattle and raise high-quality beef,” says Joe Don Ellers, vice president of merchandising at Sysco. Building on the first successful year, another year of BQA promotions and training aims to reach new audiences and encourage live or online certification. Recognizing the importance of the next generation, Raised with Respect™ plans include an increased focus on providing education for young farmers and ranchers. *********************************************************************************** NMPF, USDEC Expand South American Partnerships The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council advanced a pair of partnerships in South America last week. The organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a prominent Brazilian milk producers association and renewed an existing MOU with an Argentine farmer organization. The agreements enhance cooperation between the United States and South American dairy industries, focusing on critical areas like the economic and social significance of the dairy sector and removing trade barriers affecting both producers and consumers. “Partnerships with like-minded organizations are crucial as we strive to promote the benefits of dairy on the international stage and tackle attempts to erect trade barriers throughout the Americas,” says Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “Our engagements underscored the shared challenges and opportunities facing dairy producers and processors in the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina.” Gregg Doud of the NMPF says dairy producers in each country confront similar challenges.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Uncertain Weather, Market Response to Fed Interest Rate Decision 1. Weather Models Shrug: Things look a bit uncertain for much of farm country next week. A front could bring scattered showers and a brief cool down to many areas, but where it stalls and for how long leads to an uncertain temperature forecast. Northern Plains should be warm to hotter than normal, the Delta region appears hot and drier. There's a chance of cooler, wet weather in the Canadian Prairies, which would benefit drought-stressed crops. 2. Stock Market Responses: We'll watch through the week on how markets respond to the Fed's decision to hold the ground, for the moment, on interest rates. As more indicators show improvement in inflation and some stability in the economy, as DTN Editor Emeritus Urban Lehner notes in his current An Urban's Rural View, it's getting tougher not to lower rates. Will the market begin to bake in a rate drop over the next few weeks? We'll be watching. . 3. Land Rate Numbers: It's time for USDA to update land and rental rate numbers, and we'll be digging into the trends. 4. Veepstakes and Ag: Like most of the nation we'll be watching for the reveal of choice for the Democratic Vice President candidate, to see how that lineup squares off against the GOP ticket and explore any signs of what that means for farming, trade and agriculture in general. 5. Economic Reports This Week: A lighter week for economic, trade and other reports. Monday, we start at 8:45 a.m. with S&P Final Services PMI, at 10 a.m. is the Grain Inspections numbers and at 2 p.m. the latest Dairy Products report is released, followed by the 3 p.m. release of the latest Crop Progress report. Tuesday, we'll only have the U.S. Trade Balance report at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday starts with the 9:30 a.m. release of EIA Weekly Petroleum Status, including ethanol production and stocks. At 11 a.m. are the Livestock and Meat International Data, and Consumer Credit and Broiler Hatchery reports at 2 p.m. Thursday numbers include the 7:30 a.m. Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobless Claims, the 9 a.m. release of Wholesale Inventories and the 9:30 a.m. Weekly Economic Index announcement. Friday we'll have the 2:30 p.m. CFTC Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 5, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be keeping track of the latest weather forecasts and watching the stock market for signs of further anxiety after last week's sell-off. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Hurricane Debby came ashore in the Big Bend area of Florida early Monday morning. The storm will be a slow mover all week long, getting into southeastern Georgia Monday night. Heavy rain and wind damage are likely. A front will slowly sag south across the northern tier of the country as well, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms and some severe weather. Much milder temperatures will follow behind that front and another that is forming in the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 2, 2024 |

Marshall Leads Letter Fighting for Farmers with Biofuel Tax Credit Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) led a bipartisan letter calling for the Treasury Department to restrict the eligibility of the 45Z tax credit to renewable fuels made only from domestically sourced feedstocks, like Kansas corn and soybean oil. The tax credit goes into effect on January 1, 2025, and it has the unintended consequence of incentivizing foreign used cooking oil over homegrown soybean and corn oil. The letter says what makes it worse is the government doesn’t verify the legitimacy of used cooking oil imports, and much of it is believed fraudulent. Since 2023, used cooking oil imports from China and other countries have averaged over half a billion pounds a month, resulting in downward pressure on American corn, soybeans, and their derivative products. “This drop in soybean prices corresponds to a loss in production value to American farmers of at least $5.4 billion, and even more when they calculate corn losses,” the letter says. *********************************************************************************** Food Export’s 2025 Year Opens on August 1 Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast announced the 2025 Program Year opens August 1, 2024, to suppliers in Food Export’s 23 member states. The announcement includes the release of 2025 activities, registration for events, and the opening of the application portal for the 2025 Branded Program year. “We are thrilled for the 2025 Program year,” says Teresa Miller, Food Export Chief Program and Partnership Officer. “We anticipated strong funding for the program, which Food Export will share with the small and medium-sized food and agricultural companies we represent.” She also says Food Export worked hard in recent years to create new events in emerging markets in areas like Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa. “We have a robust educational calendar planned, as well,” Miller adds. “Access to support for trade shows and other funding opportunities is part of what we offer to small and medium-sized businesses looking to export their products.” *********************************************************************************** Officials Welcome $400 Million to Combat Western Drought Elected officials from New Mexico, Oregon, and Colorado welcomed USDA’s announcement of $400 million to address drought through investments at the irrigation district scale in 12 states across the American West. “Family farmers, water users, and communities across the American West are facing the effects of a historic 1,200-year drought and a changing climate,” says Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO).”With the investment, they answered our call to bring resources to bear that will help producers innovate and become more resilient to drought.” Producers who participate in USDA’s Water Saving Commodity Program will receive payments for voluntarily reducing water consumption while maintaining commodity production. The funding will help conserve up to 50,000 acre-feet in water use across 250,000 acres of irrigated land in production while expanding and creating new sustainable market opportunities. The new program will support innovative measures for water conservation while building resilience for long-term production in the Western U.S. ********************************************************************************** Profit Downturn for Global Ag Traders Global bumper harvests, a downturn in crop markets, and slowing demand for farm equipment are shrinking profits and lowering the future outlooks for some of the world’s biggest companies. Farm Policy News says St. Louis-based Bunge posted earnings of $1.73 a share in the second quarter, the lowest since the start of COVID-19 in 2020. The results also missed analyst expectations by as much as ten percent. Also, global grain merchants ADM Company shares dropped two percent after the company missed Wall Street expectations for second-quarter profits, which were hit by lower soy crush margins and fading demand for U.S. crops. The company’s Ag Services and Oilseeds branch suffered a 56 percent year-on-year plunge in quarterly operating profits due to multiple challenges. On the equipment side, farm and construction maker CNH Industrial lowered its full-year profit forecast for the second time as slowing tractor and combine demand mutes recovery hopes. *********************************************************************************** China’s Food Self-Sufficiency Plans Hit Weather Snag China’s quest for becoming more food-secure is getting interrupted by extreme weather challenges. Torrential rains and floods have battered most of the nation in recent days and weeks. The South China Morning Post says that’s threatening the productivity of a farming industry that’s already lacking in efficiency. The Chinese government issued 238 million yuan, equivalent to 32.8 million dollars, in emergency funding for recovering agricultural production in five provinces. The funds will be used to help curb agricultural losses and to lay the foundation for a solid autumn grain harvest, which would likely make up most of the year’s food output in the country. China’s been pushing for increasing food self-sufficiency but increasing occurrences of extreme weather events in recent years have made it difficult. Beijing began the push for self-sufficiency to help feed its extensive population of 1.4 billion people amid the increasingly uncertain global food market. *********************************************************************************** FFA Student Leaders Convene in Washington, D.C. FFA State Officer leaders from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands converged on Washington D.C. in July to advocate for agriculture at the federal level. The activity was part of the National FFA State Officer Summit. State Officer Teams met virtually with their representatives to share the importance of agriculture and agricultural education while advocating for the extension of FFA funding through the farm bill. They also invited legislators to join the Congressional FFA Caucus. FFA members asked for the reauthorization of a grant that supports youth organizations including National FFA, the National 4-H Council, Boy Scouts of America, and Girls Scouts of America as part of the U.S. Farm Bill. National FFA also asked for support in extending the sunshine date of this grant to coincide with the next reauthorization of the U.S. farm bill. More information on the event is available at ffa.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 2, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release employment data at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by a report on June U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to watch the latest weather forecasts, but funds remain comfortable with their short positions in grains, so far. Weather A slow-moving system is working through the Eastern Corn Belt, bringing scattered showers Friday but with less of a threat of severe weather. Additional thunderstorms may develop along its front against the Rockies, especially the central High Plains. Showers may keep temperatures down a bit in those areas, otherwise heat continues across most of the country, breaking some records in the Pacific Northwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 1, 2024 |

U.S. Pork Supplies Proven Safe At the urging of the National Pork Producers Council, a newly published USDA study found zero Trichinella (Trick-ih-NELL-ah) positives in more than 3.2 million U.S. pork samples. NPPC says that demonstrates to domestic and global consumers how safe the U.S. pork supply is for consumption. “USDA scientists have confirmed that U.S. pork producers’ rigorous biosecurity efforts to keep pigs healthy and working,” says NPPC President Lori Stevermer. “Because of decades of pork industry research and hard work on the farm, consumers can continue to be confident that the pork on their dinner is safe to eat.” Trading partners have long restricted access for U.S. pork because of Trichinella concerns, as the U.S. didn’t have surveillance data to prove there was a negligible risk for it in the domestic swine herd. As a result of NPPC’s persistence over the past ten years, this USDA study validates the safety of U.S. pork. *********************************************************************************** Chicken Will Continue Meeting the Needs of Consumers Into 2035 In the upcoming decade, fast prep time, easy-to-prepare, single-serving packaging, and other time savers will be priorities for Gen Z and younger Millennials who buy fresh chicken. That’s according to research presented at the 2024 Chicken Marketing Summit. More than two-thirds, or 71 percent, of consumers surveyed said they now spend more than 30 minutes preparing a typical evening meal. Gen Z spends the most time preparing dinner, with almost a third spending an hour or more on a typical evening meal. Sixty-seven percent of Gen Z says that fast prep will be a priority in five years. “Beyond speed, Gen Z indicates a future need for advance meal prep, global flavors, and minimal clean up,” says Joyce Neth of WATT Global Media. Among the report’s recommendations was to make it easy for consumers to choose, buy, and prepare chicken meals fast and to reinforce the established benefits of chicken. *********************************************************************************** CDC to Spend $10 Million to Curb Human Bird Flu Infections The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plans to spend up to $10 million to curb farmworker bird flu infections, including $5 million on seasonal flu vaccines. It’s part of the agency’s overall efforts to avoid further spread and mutation of the virus. The CDC will allocate $5 million for organizations like the National Center for Farmworker Health to educate and train workers on protecting themselves from bird flu and another $5 million to providing seasonal flu shots to farm workers. Though the seasonal flu vaccine doesn’t protect workers from bird flu, the vaccine could reduce the risk that workers become infected with the seasonal flu and bird flu at the same time, which could lead to virus mutations. Farm Policy News says the ongoing outbreak of bird flu has infected poultry flocks in almost every state in the union since 2022 and over 170 dairy herds since March. ********************************************************************************** Majority of Beef Cattle Farms Have Small Herds The United States has numerous beef cow-calf farms that raise beef calves at least through weaning. However, USDA data says while there are a large number of farms, most are relatively small. Data from the 2022 Census of Agriculture indicated that 55 percent of America’s farms with beef cattle had fewer than 20 beef cows on December 31, 200, while less than one percent had 1,000 or more beef cows. Farms with fewer than 20 beef cows held nine percent of the national inventory of cows, and those with 1,000 cows or more held 10 percent of the inventory. Farms with 290 to 999 beef cows held 35 percent of the inventory. With 29.2 million beef cows on 622,000 farms on December 31, 2022, the average beef farm had 47 cows. USDA says the cow-calf segment of the U.S. beef industry is diverse and farms are located in every state. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Latest Food Price Outlook The USDA’s latest Food Price Outlook says food price inflation for 2024 will be less than half of the pace set in 2023. This year, the USDA says prices for all food are predicted to increase by 2.2 percent, down from 5.8 percent in 2023. Food-at-home prices are predicted to increase by one percent, and food-away-from-home prices are expected to increase by 4.3 percent. The USDA says 2025 food prices are expected to increase slower than the historical average rate of growth. Prices for all food in 2025 are predicted to increase by two percent. This year, USDA said prices were lower in June 2024 compared to June 2023 for four food-at-home categories, including fish and seafood, dairy products, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables. Apple prices, in particular, were 12 percent lower than in June 2023 because of higher supplies. Fresh fruit prices are predicted to drop 0.8 percent in 2024. *********************************************************************************** FFA Gets Grant to Expand Precision Ag Education Dozens of FFA chapters in the U.S. are getting a new classroom resource for the 2024-2025 school year. A Microsoft grant will help FFA members and advisors launch a new version of FarmBeats for Students, a hands-on education program built around precision agriculture that Microsoft developed in collaboration with National FFA. This summer, FFA advisors are attending a training session hosted by Microsoft in select states where digital agriculture is ripe for growth. The technology allows students to experience cutting-edge technology and participate in hands-on lessons, fostering a new generation of tech-savvy agricultural leaders. FarmBeats for Students gives direct experience with topics like digital sensors, data analysis, and artificial intelligence, all through the lens of agriculture. “Microsoft’s investment in our advisors and students is an investment in the future agricultural leaders, and eventually will help fill the void in the talent pipeline,” says National FFA Chief Program Officer Christine White.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 1, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, second-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. A U.S. manufacturing index will be out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A small system is moving through the Midwest on Thursday. It produced severe thunderstorms in the Western Corn Belt Wednesday and is likely to produce some additional severe weather Thursday as well. Heat continues to be a big issue across the South and is building back up in the West.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 31, 2024 |

Changes to the Enhanced Coverage Option Insurance Program The USDA announced changes to the Enhanced Coverage Option Policy Program beginning with the 2025 crop year. The Risk Management Agency is expanding coverage options to additional crops and increasing premium support to make the policy more affordable for U.S. producers. “RMA is continually responding to needs and adapting our insurance coverage options to give producers more choices for managing their risks,” says administrator Marcia Bunger. ECO is currently approved for 36 crops, and the RMA is expanding coverage options to almonds, apples, blueberries, grapes, and walnuts for the 2025 crop year and to citrus crops where the Supplemental Coverage Option is currently available in California and Arizona for the 2026 crop year. Additionally, the RMA is increasing premium support for all crops covered by ECO to 65 percent to make the policy more affordable. ECO provides additional area-based coverage for a portion of a producer’s underlying crop insurance policy deductible. *********************************************************************************** USDA Extends Comment Period on Packers and Stockyards Rule The USDA recently extended the 60-day comment period for the latest Packers and Stockyards Act proposal by 15 days. Tanner Beymer, senior director of government affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, says that’s not enough time for USDA to properly evaluate the rule. “Cattle markets are immensely complicated, and USDA is planning to make sweeping changes to those markets with only 75 days of public input,” Beymer says. “While this extension is welcome news, it’s not enough time to properly solicit public comments and review a rule that will have such an overarching impact on the cattle industry.” The proposed rule, “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets,” is already a direct attack on producer profitability, and now USDA is running down the clock to provide meaningful input from cattle producers. The rule aims to ensure fairer competition and transparency, requiring poultry companies to document fair comparisons between growers. *********************************************************************************** New USDA Policy to Reduce Salmonella in Eggs The Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a comprehensive proposed rule and determination to more effectively reduce Salmonella contamination and illnesses associated with raw poultry products. It’s the culmination of a three-year effort to reevaluate the FSIS strategy for controlling Salmonella rates in poultry and protect American consumers from illnesses linked to eating poultry products. Salmonella bacteria cause over one million human infections in the U.S. each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says food is the leading source of Salmonella infections and poultry is among the leading sources of foodborne illnesses. The proposal would establish final product standards to prevent raw chicken carcasses, chicken parts, ground chicken, and ground turkey products that exceed acceptable levels of salmonella from entering the food chain. “The proposed Salmonella framework is grounded in data and rigorous scientific evaluation and reflects stakeholder feedback,” says Undersecretary for Food Safety Dr. Emilio Esteban. ********************************************************************************** Tropical Rainstorm May Impact U.S. Coast AccuWeather says a developing tropical rainstorm in the Atlantic Ocean could strengthen into a named storm later this week or during the weekend and bring potential impact to the U.S. coast. “The tropical rainstorm is currently battling a harsh environment in a sea of dry air as it moves west across the Atlantic,” says Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. The tropical rainstorm is currently moving through an area that’s not conducive for development but will soon move into an area with more favorable conditions. “Dry air and wind shear ripped this tropical rainstorm apart,” says Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. “It’s struggling and trying to reorganize from scratch, but it has a 60 percent chance of strengthening into a named storm no sooner than this weekend or early next week.” The rainstorm is moving through an area with very warm waters that can support development, but it will also encounter more disruptive wind shear. *********************************************************************************** Producers Invited to the 2024 Stockmanship and Stewardship Tour The 2024 Stockmanship and Stewardship workshop tour gets underway in August. Producers in the heart of the driftless region can engage with esteemed cattle producers who have been recognized for their land stewardship efforts at the regional and national levels as they participate in an interactive panel, offering insights into their approaches to raising beef cattle while enriching their land. Attendees will see low-stress cattle handling demonstrations that teach how using the animals’ natural instincts helps improve cattle flow and makes handling easier and safer for both humans and animals. The program includes demonstrations using both beef cattle and beef-dairy cross cattle, providing tactics on how to move them based on their different instincts and behaviors. The tour kicks off August 23-24 in Richfield, Utah. After the tour stops in Lancaster, Wisconsin, August 28-29 and Fresno, California, October 18-19, it finishes up in Hamburg, New York on October 25-26. *********************************************************************************** The U.S. Dairy Industry is Evolving The U.S. dairy industry has evolved during the past 20 years, with fewer dairy farms producing more milk. The USDA’s Economic Research Service says this raised questions about how dairy farms have changed in size, location, use of advanced technology, and cost of production. An ERS report addresses the issues of how the dairy farm structure has changed and how it differs by the size of operations and location. The study found that consistent with long-term trends, the number of U.S. dairy farms has fallen while milk production has risen. Moderate shifts in dairy farm locations have occurred between 2020 and 2022, with Texas and Idaho gaining production share while California lost some share. Dairy farm usage has trended upward for several advanced technologies, management practices, and production systems. Larger farms, on average, were more specialized in production and greater adopters of the most advanced technologies and management practices.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 31, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. employment cost index for the second quarter will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve will announce its decision on interest rates at 1 p.m. and is expected to keep the target unchanged with an upper limit of 5.50%. Weather Heat continuing across the South-Central U.S. on Wednesday will feed scattered showers and thunderstorms as a front moves across the Western Corn Belt. Some of these thunderstorms may be severe and could put out a lot of rain as storms hit areas that have already been hit this week. Many areas will be unfortunately missed and those that are will sit in the heat, reducing soil moisture and stressing row crops.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 30, 2024 |

Non-Real Estate Loan Activity Higher in 2024 As commodity prices have continued to drop, many producers may face economic losses with less balance sheet resiliency. The economists at Agricultural Economic Insights say recent loan data revealed that farmers utilized more non-real estate debt in early 2024. In the first quarter of 2024, total non-real estate debt was 14 percent higher than in 2023. AEI says non-real estate loans increased at the fastest rate in five decades. The last time non-farm real estate debt jumped so quickly was in the late 1970s. However, while the 15 percent increase is rare, increases of 10 percent, which are also large, have occurred quite frequently. With margins squeezed, producers are utilizing more non-real estate debt, especially operating loans. AEI says while the upturn is noteworthy, the rise hasn’t pushed overall debt to record levels. Non-real estate debt trended lower between 2019 and 2023. Higher debt levels will contribute to higher interest expenses. *********************************************************************************** Farm Expenditures Top $480 Billion in 2023 The USDA estimates 2023 farm production expenditures in the U.S. at $481.9 billion, up from $452.5 billion the previous year. The four largest expenditures totaled $238.7 billion and accounted for 49.6 percent of total expenditures in 2023. These include feed at 16.6 percent, livestock, poultry, and related expenses at 11.6 percent, farm services accounted for 11.3 percent, and labor at 10.1 percent. In 2023, the U.S. saw the total average farm expenditure reach $255,047, up 12.4 percent from $226,885 in 2022. On average, U.S. farm operations spent $42,340 on feed, $29,479 on livestock, poultry, and related expenses, $28,800 on farm services, and more than $25,600 on labor. Total fuel expense in 2023 was $16.5 billion. Diesel was the largest sub-component at $10.9 billion, accounting for 66 percent. Diesel expenditures were down 4.4 percent from 2022. Gasoline expenditures reached $2.8 billion, down 5.7 percent from the previous year. LP gas reached $1.8 billion. *********************************************************************************** USDA Trade Mission to Colombia Alexis Taylor, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs will lead 24 agribusinesses and organizations on a trade mission to Bogota, Colombia, August 13-15. The mission’s goal is to boost American agricultural exports and build upon the successes of the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. “Colombia is a significant growth market for U.S. agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “As Latin America’s third-most-populous country, it features an expanding middle class and rising consumer purchasing power.” She also says Colombian consumers are hungry for world-class food and agricultural products that the U.S. offers. In 2023, U.S. agricultural exports to Colombia reached a record $3.7 billion. Colombia ranks as the seventh-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, while America is the top export market for Colombia’s agricultural products. Colombia’s gross domestic product is expected to continue growing and remain slightly higher than the regional average, setting the table for continued interest in U.S. products. ********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in 29 States to Lower Energy Costs USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the agency is partnering with farmers and businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy bills through the Rural Energy for America Program and the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program. USDA is investing $163 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance, that will support 338 clean energy projects in 39 states and Guam. “We’re partnering with people in rural communities across our nation to expand access to clean energy and save rural Americans money,” Vilsack says. “We’re hard at work supporting rural small businesses and farmers as they create jobs for their communities and drive economic prosperity.” REAP enables agricultural producers and rural small business owners to expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydro-power energy to make energy efficiency improvements. Those innovations help them increase their income, grow their businesses, and lower energy costs for American families. *********************************************************************************** Corn Growers Want Reasonable Standards for SAF Tax Credits The Biden administration should set fair and reasonable criteria around farming practices for farmers and refineries seeking tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels. Those are comments from the National Corn Growers Association submitted to the USDA. “Ethanol has played a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in cars and trucks and can do the same for the airline industry,” said NCGA President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee) after the comments were filed. “But we need a level playing field that allows farmers to meet emissions requirements using environmentally smart practices that will work on their farms.” The issue stems from tax credits allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act for sustainable aviation fuels that would allow farmers to participate in this emerging market. “Imposing a one-size-fits-all standard for attaining the tax credit will make it hard for farmers to contribute to the president’s grand challenge,” he added. “We can help meet those climate goals.” *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Developing a Producer Education Program The American Sheep Industry Association’s Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs group has received a grant of $89,580. The money comes from the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center to develop a beginning producer education program. It will incorporate online education, producer workshops, and an online forum. “We started the conversation at the American Sheep Industry’s Annual Convention about developing a program,” says Dr. Kelly Froelich (FRAY-lick) of the Young and Emerging Entrepreneurs Steering Committee. “We’ve already developed the online curriculum which will be open to everyone.” Because the committee doesn’t want to overwhelm beginners, the program is basic. They’re seeing an upswing in the number of people interested in sheep, and they want to do everything possible to help answer their questions. In-person workshops will be held in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. A fall lambing school in South Dakota is in the works. For information, go to SheepUSA.org.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 30, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Of course, grain traders will be watching the latest forecasts as we near August. An index of U.S. consumer confidence for July is due out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday and the Federal Reserve will hold the first of a two-day meeting with no change in the interest rate expected at Wednesday afternoon's announcement. Weather A front moving through the eastern Midwest and another moving into the Northern Plains are connected through Iowa, and clusters of showers and thunderstorms will be developing across the Corn Belt throughout the day. Any cluster will be able to tap into the heat building across the Southern Plains that is extending farther north into the Iowa front and could become severe with a primary focus of strong winds.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Consequences of No New Farm Bill The farm bill is already a year late, the stakes are high, and time is running out. The American Farm Bureau released its Market Intel Analysis of the consequences of not finishing the legislation and adding another extension of the 2018 bill. While crop insurance is a permanent program, it does need improvements to make it more affordable for all farmers. Plus, the fixed statutory reference prices that were set in 2014 don’t account for unforeseen market forces like the exceptional inflation in recent years. Also, by delaying the farm bill another year, Congress would be delaying help that could slow the consolidation rate of dairy farms. The farm bill’s conservation programs are defined by a fixed amount of money being available, and like the safety net programs, their value gets eroded by high inflation. The farm bill is also a chance to increase research funding and enhance U.S. food security. *********************************************************************************** EPA Releases Draft to Protect Endangered Species from Insecticides The Environmental Protection Agency released its draft Insecticide Strategy. It’s part of an effort to adopt early, practical protections for federally endangered and threatened species. “Ensuring the safe use of insecticides is a critical part of the EPA’s mission to protect endangered species and the environment,” says Jake Li (Lee) of the EPA. “We’re making a significant effort to protect endangered species, support farmers and other insecticide users, and provide critical environmental protections for communities across the country,” Li says. The draft strategy identifies protections that the EPA will consider when registering a new insecticide or reevaluating an existing one. EPA identified protections to address potential impacts for more than 850 species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The draft identifies protections earlier in the pesticide review process, thus creating a far more efficient approach to evaluate and protect the species that live near the agricultural areas using insecticides. ********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Submits Comments on Greenhouse Gas Mitigation The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition submitted comments in response to USDA’s request for information on a docket titled “The Procedures for Quantifying, Reporting, and Verification of GHG Emissions Associated with Producing Domestic Ag Commodities to Be Used as Biofuel.” In their comments, the Coalition supported USDA’s objective of accelerating the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels in the U.S. To achieve that objective, the Coalition urges USDA to consider four overarching principles during the rulemaking process. The SAF Coalition urged the agency to ensure federal policies are science-based and data-driven to unlock the full potential to develop and deploy SAF. They also encourage policies that are technology and feedstock-neutral, with the aim of reducing carbon intensity in a realistic and verifiable way. They’re also asking for sufficient flexibility to accommodate new feedstock technologies and to ensure simple and clear administrative practices that are implementable and manageable. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Quality Council Tour Finds Reasons for Optimism After three days of hard work, participants in the Wheat Quality Council’s Spring Wheat Tour came to the same conclusion. North Dakota farmers may have their best crop in decades. After three days of touring, the average Hard Red Spring Wheat yield was projected at 54.5 bushels per acre, up from 47.4 bushels last year. The durum fields visited had a prospective yield of 45.3 bushels per acre, up from the 2023 projections of 43.9. Two Hard Red Winter Wheat fields on the tour had a projected yield of 51.4 bushels per acre. Dave Green, the Executive Vice President of the Wheat Quality Council, said weather conditions in the weeks before harvest will determine if North Dakota can produce a record-breaking wheat crop. More than 40 millers, bakers, grain company representatives, media members, and government employees toured more than 250 fields of HRS and durum wheat in North Dakota, the host state. *********************************************************************************** Junior Angus Members Support McDonald House Charities National Junior Angus Association members rallied behind the mission of supporting families and took part in the 2024 Angus Impact Project. Pop tabs, meals, and gift cards were donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison, Wisconsin. Eighteen states collected 652 pounds of pop tabs, totaling $326, the single-largest donation to ever be made by one organization at the Madison Ronald McDonald House. NJAB vice chair, Lauren Gilbert, led the Angus Impact Project this year and said she was in awe of the number of pop tabs collected by the Association. “It was incredible to see how many people had turned up with so many pop tabs,” she said. Before the National Junior Angus Show, members also served 35 meals donated by Certified Angus Beef to residents on June 28. "Food brings people together, and that's huge, especially during times of need," she added. "It was great to help out." *********************************************************************************** Reaching Consumers at a Dining Event The American Lamb Board and Homemade, America’s largest cooking school, hosted a consumer dinner at the Seattle Cooking Studio on July 20. Consumers attending the event learned during a live cooking demo from chef and cookbook author Ashley Rodriguez before indulging in American Lamb from Anderson Ranches, a local producer. The dinner featured four lamb dishes from various cuts, including the rack, shoulder, and leg. Reed Anderson of Anderson Ranches talked to attendees about local lamb production. “It’s a success when ALB can bring together ranchers, butchers, and chefs to educate consumers about the lamb from farm to table,” says ALB Chair Jeff Ebert. “These consumers left the event with so much information about how lamb is grown and how to prepare amazing dishes. We hope they’ll take this information home and start sharing the lamb story with their family and friends.” For more information, producers and consumers should visit LambBoard.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Hot Weather, Interest Rates Decision, Crop Condition Update 1. August heat rolls in: The United States Corn Belt will see hotter conditions in most areas this week. The Midwest sees more chances of showers, potentially severe, but those will be hit-and-miss through the week. Things are hotter and drier in the Plains, warmer as well in the Northern Plains and into Canada. Northern corn and soybeans crops can use some warmth after a cool and late start. What's unlikely is more rain to help. 2. Crop condition watch: With weather systems turning warmer and rain spottier, we'll dig into the latest USDA NASs weekly Crop Progress report numbers Monday afternoon to judge where the overall crop sits as August moves in. 3. New interest rate? As we note below, Wednesday is the second day of the July meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee, followed by announcement of any adjustments to federal funds interest rates. The usual press conference with Fed Chair Jerome Powell is later Wednesday afternoon. Our Under the Agridome columnist Philip Shaw recently wrote about how Canada has lowered its interest rate and the possible impact. See: 4. Wildfire watch: As wildfires grow in the U.S. and Canada, we'll be tracking damage areas. During the last few days several communities have had to be evacuated as fires spread. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday. At 10 a.m., we see the latest Grain Inspections numbers. At 2 p.m. USDA releases Livestock and Meat Domestic Data plus Egg Products numbers. At 3 p.m. we have the USDA NASS weekly Crop Progress report including DTN analysis of those numbers. Tuesday sees the 8:15 a.m. Case-Shiller Home Price Index, followed by the 9 a.m. release of Consumer Confidence and Job Openings data. Wednesday reports begin at 7:15 a.m. with ADP Employment stats, then 9 a.m. the release of the Pending Home Sales Index. At 1 p.m., we'll get the FOMC Interest Rate Decision, followed by Fed Chair Powell's press conference at 1:30 p.m. At 2 p.m. we'll see Agricultural Prices and Broiler Hatchery reports. Thursday kicks off with Grain Export Sales and Initial Jobs Claims data at 7:30 a.m., then the 8:45 a.m. comes the S&P U.S. Manufacturing PMI data. At 9 a.m., Construction Spending. Friday reports start at 7:30 a.m. with U.S. employment report and U.S. Unemployment Rate and Hourly Wages. At 9 a.m. the latest Factory Orders data is released, then at 2:30 p.m. the CFTC Commitment of Traders report is released.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 29, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, grain traders will be checking the latest forecasts with a view to prospects for corn and soybean crop conditions in August. USDA's report of weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Outside markets will be interested in the Fed's post-meeting comments on Wednesday. Weather Heat is building in the Southern Plains on Monday and excessive heat advisories and warnings are posted for many in the south-central U.S. A front moving through the Corn Belt will do its best to resist the building heat by producing areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which may become severe.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 26, 2024 |

NCBA Praises Passage of Interior Appropriations Bill The Public Lands Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association applauded House passage of HR 8998, the Department of Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2025. The PLC says the bill protects the rights of land grazing permittees and reels in overreaching BLM regulations. “It addresses Endangered Species Act challenges, defends local communities against land grabs under the Antiquities Act, and recognizes the important role of ranchers – America’s original conservationists – in the stewardship of our nation’s lands,” says PLC President Mark Roeber. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee) says whether you’re a cattle producer on public or private lands, over-regulation from the federal government is a serious challenge. “This package supports American agriculture, protects farms and ranches from burdensome rules, and protect the rights of public lands ranchers who represent an important part of the cattle industry and a driving force in rural economies,” says Eisele. *********************************************************************************** Deere Confirms More Layoffs John Deere, faced with lower customer demand for equipment, declining sales, and a difficult ag economy, confirmed cuts in its global salaried workforce. Corridor Business says Deere didn’t release details on the number of salaried employees affected. In a statement, the company says it’s been forced to make tough decisions, including layoffs at John Deere production facilities and reductions in the global salaried workforce. The most recent round of cuts follow hundreds of previously announced layoffs of Deere’s production workers in recent months. The company didn’t release when the salaried workforce reductions would take place. In a statement, Deere said, “As the largest global manufacturer of agricultural equipment, John Deere, like many others, faces significant economic challenges, rising operational and manufacturing costs, and reduced customer demand, including a 20 percent decline in sales from 2023 to 2024.” Impacted employees get up to 12 months’ severance pay based on years of service. ********************************************************************************** Cotton Trust Protocol Continues Growing The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol announced its continued program expansion for the fifth consecutive year, both in enrolled growers and planted acres. Planted cotton acres enrolled increased to 2.1 million acres, up 31 percent from 2023 and is driven by a 35 percent increase in enrolled growers, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability in the cotton industry. “We are proud to see a steady increase in grower enrollment for the Trust Protocol for a fifth consecutive year, reflecting a continued commitment to sustainability throughout the cotton industry,” says Daren Abney, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol Executive Director. “It is a collective effort that brings more responsibly produced cotton into the market, providing brands and retailers with greater access to sustainable sourcing options.” With 35 percent increase, enrollment for 2024 now totals 1,327 growers participating in the Trust Protocol. Enrolled acres for the 2023 crop year resulted in 1.9 million bales of cotton. *********************************************************************************** Ag-FDA Funding Bill Pulled From House Floor Vote House Republicans pulled two government spending bills scheduled for a floor vote this week. Farm Policy News says the signals further peril for the leadership’s doomed efforts to pass all the 2025 spending bills before the August recess. The funding bills for the Agriculture Department and FDA, in addition to the Financial Services spending bill, will not be considered on the floor as originally planned. Both measures didn’t make it through the House floor thanks to controversial funding levels and conservative policy riders, including language blocking abortion and contraceptive protections. One report says the Ag-FDA funding bill was pulled off the House floor vote was that “conservative wanted an amendment vote to re-add the controversial abortion pill rider that centrist Republicans had stripped out. Tom Cole, an Oklahoma representative, said he had heard some pro-life concerns over changes to the ag funding bill Republicans expected to vote on this week. *********************************************************************************** Ag Banker Testifies on Farm Economic Conditions The American Bankers Association provided testimony before the House Ag Committee and offered the association’s views on the financial conditions in farm country. Tony Hotchkiss, char of the Agriculture and Rural Bankers Committee, emphasized the critical role banks play in the agricultural economy as the primary source of credit to farmers and ranchers across the U.S. He said that at the end of 2023, more than 3,800 banks in the U.S. had agricultural loans on their books with a total outstanding portfolio of $198.6 billion. While farm banks are prepared to manage potential economic headwinds, Hotchkiss explained that many producers have worked through the liquidity and working capital they built up in recent years due to rising input prices and lower commodity prices. “Across the industry, many bankers believe they may be looking over a cliff in regard to the agricultural economy without changes to current government policy,” said Hotchkiss. *********************************************************************************** Judge Upholds Massachusetts’ Ban on Pork District Judge William Young of Boston largely upheld Massachusetts’ Q3 pork law, rejecting an industry-backed attempt to block its enforcement. This law, known as the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, bans the sale of pork from pigs kept in tightly confined spaces. The decision’s key points included the rejection of federal presumption. The judge dismissed arguments that the Federal Meat Inspection Act preempted the state law. He also says that the Massachusetts law merely bans the sale of non-compliant pork meat and doesn’t regulate slaughterhouse operations directly. While the majority of the law was upheld, the judge did rule that a specific provision known as the “slaughterhouse exception” was unconstitutional. The exception allowed certain processors to directly sell non-compliant pork to consumers. The judge determined that the unconstitutional provision could be severed from the rest of the law, allowing the main components of the legislation to remain in effect.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 26, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. Commerce Department reports on personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the PCE inflation index for June. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for July will be out at 9 a.m. Grain traders continue to watch the latest weather forecasts with a view to conditions in August. Weather Scattered showers continue near the Gulf Coast on Friday, aided somewhat by an upper-level low in the Southern Plains. A front moving through the Northern Plains will bring some relief to recent triple-digit temperatures along with some isolated showers. Temperatures continue to creep upward in most areas east of the Rockies where showers aren't occurring with cooler air behind the front in the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 25, 2024 |

Defense Department Backs Off Lab-Grown Meat The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association confirmed that the effort to prevent ultra-processed, lab-grown protein in the diet of the American armed forces was successful. The announcement came following news that the U.S. Department of Defense is not pursuing lab-grown protein products for human consumption. “NCBA was the first and only group to fight back against lab-grown protein getting served to our armed forces,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “After weeks of speaking out against the plan, we are thrilled to have DoD confirmation that lab-grown protein is not on the menu for our nation’s service members.” He also says the men and women who make the greatest sacrifices in service to our country deserve high-quality, nutritious, and wholesome food like real beef grown by American farmers and ranchers. “There’s a big difference between defense applications for new tools and our food,” says Sigrid Johannes, NCBA senior director of government affairs. *********************************************************************************** Additional Steps to Protect Against Wildfires The USDA announced additional steps to safeguard western communities in the face of increasingly dangerous and intense wildfires. The agency is building advanced wildfire detection capabilities using satellite technology. An agreement between USDA’s Forest Service, the Interior Department, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration allows the use of NOAA’s Geostationary and Operation Environmental Satellite. This new agreement will use advanced remote sensing capabilities to improve the speed and accuracy of wildfire detection. “This partnership is one of the many ways we’re investing in technology to improve firefighter and community safety,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Wildland firefighting will always require highly skilled individuals on the ground, but with more real-time information, we can reduce the risks to pilots and improve our response time, reducing the risk to impacted communities.” The satellite observations are not only valuable for detecting wildfires but will also be critical for observing smoke from those fires. ********************************************************************************** NASS Releases Watershed Report The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Watersheds Report, which provides data to supplement the 2022 Census of Agriculture. Watersheds is the first of six Subject Series to be released for this Census of Ag. The Watersheds Report breaks down select ag census data like farms, land in farms, land use practices, fertilizer and chemical use, and select commodities by using the six-digit Hydrologic Unit code boundaries. “Anyone concerned about the health of a given body of water or watershed should be interested in this data,” says NASS administrator Joseph Parsons. “The Watershed Report provides agricultural and environmental data users with a novel way to examine and compare ag census data.” The type of data in the Watersheds Report can be used by researchers, community organizations, policymakers, and producers themselves to help assess the impact or potential impact of agriculture on the environment and any surrounding bodies of water. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Donate $100,000 worth of Pork Pork producers from Virginia, North Carolina, and Iowa announced a generous donation of $100,000 worth of pork products to the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington, D.C. That donation is the equivalent of 54,000 pounds of pork. The donation was a part of the $100K Pork Chop Challenge. Joe and Mandy Neuman of Sloppy Mama’s Barbecue won the $100K Challenge and were on hand for the donation, which was the culmination of the competition that celebrates the finest pork chop dishes in the Capital Beltway Area. “This donation is amazingly helpful to us so we can make sure that families in our region can access the food they need to thrive,” says Emily Lauer-Bader, director of corporate partnerships at the Capital Area Food Bank. The Challenge is hosted by the Virginia Pork Council, with support from the Iowa Pork Producers Association, North Carolina Pork Council, and the National Restaurant Association. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Applauds Letter on 45Z Tax Incentive Clean Fuels Alliance America applauded a bipartisan letter signed by 16 Senators and 36 Representatives and sent to the U.S. Treasury Department. The letter asks Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to publish proposed rules for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit and safe harbor guidance by September 1, 2024, and complete the final rulemaking no later than November 1, 2024. “Lack of regulatory certainty is already putting thriving businesses at risk as fuel producers are unable to make important business decisions regarding their fuel,” the letter says. “Capital investment remains uncommitted, threatening certain projects and expansion plans, including the administration’s stated goals to support new markets like sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon transportation fuels.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels says biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers are already producing almost five billion gallons of the advanced biofuels that could qualify for this credit. “They need policy certainty immediately,” he adds. *********************************************************************************** Bird Flu in Dairy Cattle Can Be Stopped Federal officials said this week that the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle can be eliminated. Stat News Dot Com says officials face increasing doubts from experts because the virus is still spreading to new herds. “All signs that we have are, with good biosecurity, with good farmer participation, we will be able to eliminate this,” says Eric Deeble, acting senior adviser for H5N1 response at USDA. He says the reason for the confidence is that investigations are showing that it’s the transportation of the cattle, as well as the shared use of equipment and vehicles, spreading the virus. Deeble says that means cutting off virus access to the cattle at those points in the delivery chain can contain it. “We understand this moves with the cattle and the people that work closely with them, so improving biosecurity should get us to a point where we can arrest the spread,” Deeble adds.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 25, 2024 |

Thursday Ag News Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, second-quarter U.S. GDP, U.S. durable goods orders in June and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. Weather An old frontal boundary continues to create a zone of showers and thunderstorms from southeast Texas to the Carolinas on Thursday where bouts of heavy rain will be possible. A new front is moving through the Canadian Prairies and into Montana during the day, which could spark some rain as well but mostly for northern Alberta. Heat is slowly building eastward ahead of that front into more of the Plains, being especially hot in the Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 24, 2024 |

Pork Industry Fuels Jobs and the Economy The National Pork Producers Council released a new economic contribution report detailing the significant impact America’s pig farmers have on the United States agricultural and overall economy. The report highlights the pork industry’s value chain contributions and trends in production and industry structure. Some of the report’s key takeaways include the pork industry supporting an estimated 573,311 direct, indirect, and induced jobs in the U.S. In 2023, more than 60,000 pig farms sold more than 149 million hogs worth over $27 billion in gross cash receipts. The pork industry supports more than $27 billion in personal income and boosts economic activity in services like trucking, grain elevators, insurance, and other rural-based businesses. “America’s pork industry is a vital pillar in our agricultural economy, contributing over $62 billion annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs,” says Lori Stevermer, NPPC President. “Pork is a vital part of the national economy.” *********************************************************************************** Over 500 Groups Unite to Call for a New Farm Bill Programs that benefit every family in America are too important to put off any longer. That’s the message from the American Farm Bureau and more than 500 other groups that sent a letter to Congressional leaders calling for the passage of a new, modernized farm bill. The groups signing onto the letter represent agriculture, nutrition, conservation, the environment, rural development, and several other economic sectors. The groups say in the letter, “Millions of Americans rely daily on the provisions of the farm bill to produce food, fiber, and fuel to feed their families and others around the world and to voluntarily conserve fish and wildlife and their habitat.” The groups recognize that time is running out to write and pass a farm bill this year. Passing a stopgap extension would put it at risk of further delay following the presidential election, seating a new Congress, and other legislative priorities. ********************************************************************************** Corn Grower Leader Testifies on Farm Financial Conditions A corn grower-leader from Minnesota told the House Agriculture Committee that farmers across the country must have a reauthorized and strengthened farm bill. “Unless conditions change, I believe we are heading into a perfect storm, a storm I don’t think will be fully appreciated until early next year when farmers try to get loans and are unable to do so because they can’t demonstrate the ability to cash flow,” says Minnesota Corn Growers President Dana Allen-Tully. “We have to have policies in place that reflect the realities of farming today.” She also says the stakes in farming are incredibly high, higher than she’s ever remembered them to be. “We’re putting everything we have on the line every year for very thin and oftentimes negative margins,” she also said. “While farmers feed and fuel the economy, they need a strong farm bill that will assist them when the chips are down.” *********************************************************************************** National FFA Members Attend the Washington Leadership Conference For over 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged on the nation’s capital each summer for the Washington Leadership Conference. It’s a chance to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. FFA welcomed a total of 1,610 members from 44 states. Members spent the week with agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff, who guided them through workshops, seminars, and small group activities. The goal was to have the students leave feeling equipped and empowered to impact their local communities and beyond. Students visited landmarks like the Smithsonian and packaged over 350,000 meals for those in need. The capstone of the conference was developing a Living to Serve Plan. The Plan is a civic engagement project that each participant pledged to implement in their communities when returning home. *********************************************************************************** New Education Platform Launches for Angus Juniors A new online learning platform called BEEF Academy was launched this month for members of the National Junior Angus Association. In the future, the platform will even be available to other young people interested in learning more about the beef industry. BEEF Academy was created with support from the Angus Foundation, Ingram Angus, and the American Angus Association. “The Academy blends the missions of these organizations into an online learning experience built especially for young people interested in our industry,” says Jaclyn Boester, the executive director of the Angus Foundation. In the first set of learning modules, junior members learn about the five beef industry segments and how they compete and work together as part of the beef industry. New topics will be added later this year. The BEEF Academy platform is filling a high-quality beef industry education platform that targets young people,” says Caitlyn Brandt, NJAA Director of Events and Junior Activities. *********************************************************************************** How Farmers Adjust Spending During Low Commodity Prices History does repeat itself, especially in agricultural cycles. Rabobank put together a report on how farmers adjust input spending when commodity prices drop. It explores the responsiveness of input volume and price to farm profitability in America, forming a view of how the current downturn will impact the input marketplace through next year. For example, the report says farm machinery is a hard asset that can be maintained, and new purchases can be deferred as needed. That makes machinery the most income-elastic of the major farm input categories. Fertilizer prices are also elastic. Lower fertilizer prices typically shoulder the bulk of changes in expenditures, but farmers can also adjust those volumes as well. Seed spending has increased markedly during the past 20 years as corn revenues increased during the early 2000s. As some seed patents expired, seed production costs are now expected to dictate price, suggesting farmers may see relief ahead.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 24, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. new home sales for June will be out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Also Wednesday morning, the Bank of Canada will announce its decision on interest rates. As usual, grain traders remain focused on the latest weather forecasts. Weather An old and washed-out boundary continues to produce scattered showers from Texas to the Carolinas for Wednesday, a zone that has seen widespread rainfall all week. Some areas of heavy rain will be possible. A small cold front is moving through the Midwest that should produce some limited showers as well. Extreme heat is breaking down in the West, but above-normal temperatures continue to plague that region up through the Canadian Prairies and is leaking through more of the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 23, 2024 |

Decision on Mexico-U.S. Corn Dispute Expected This Fall The U.S. made a strong case under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in the dispute with Mexico over genetically engineered corn. Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator in the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office, spoke during the recent National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress in Washington, D.C. “We will not rest on this until we get it done,” McKalip said. “It’s critically important not just for corn growers, but farmers of all kinds. If they can do this with corn, they can do it with anything.” He also said the U.S. cannot allow its trading partners to play “fast and loose” with the science. Both U.S. and Mexican officials were given questions by the panel considering the matter and both have responded. A decision is expected sometime this fall. The NCGA’s Corn Congress meets every summer in the nation’s capital to vote on policy positions, elect new board members, and hear from elected officials. *********************************************************************************** Global Poultry Markets Rebounding Despite Challenges The global poultry market outlook is further improving, driven by accelerated growth in poultry meat consumption and disciplined supply growth in many markets. After four years of highly disruptive conditions, global poultry markets are moving toward more “normal” market conditions. Rabobank says most of the global growth was driven by strong local market conditions rather than trade. This is particularly true in emerging markets in Southeast and Southern Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Lower feed prices have made chicken more affordable, supporting demand recovery. The U.S. and EU are performing well this year, with relatively strong demand, controlled producer growth, and rising prices. The main exceptions to the stronger market environment are China and Japan, where overly aggressive growth rates increased supply and reduced profitability. Brazil had also been facing an oversupply, but recent production cuts are expected to help balance their markets. Global trade is predicted to become more competitive. ********************************************************************************** U.S. Cattle on Feed Up One Percent The recent Cattle on Feed Report shows cattle and calves on feed for the U.S. slaughter market for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.3 million on July 1, 2024. The inventory was one percent above July 1, 2023. The inventory included 6.82 million steers and steer calves, up one percent from last year. This group accounted for 60 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 4.48 million head, up slightly from 2023. Placements in feedlots during June totaled 1.56 million head, seven percent below 2023. Net placements were 1.51 million head. During June, placements of cattle and calves weighing under 600 pounds were 365,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 225,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 350,000 head, 800-899 pounds reached 349,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 165,000 head, and 1,000 pounds-plus hit 80,000 head. Fed cattle marketings totaled 1.79 million head, nine percent below 2023. *********************************************************************************** Organizations Donate Aid to Flooded Areas in Iowa Three of the nation’s top cooperatives announced they will partner to support the American Red Cross in the aftermath of heavy rain and severe flooding, which devastated parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. CHS, CoBank, and Land O’ Lakes will together donate $100,000 to aid relief efforts in the impacted region. Overflowing rivers have destroyed homes in the three states, swamped farm fields, and washed away bridges. In Rock Valley, Iowa, residents evacuated by boat and helicopter following a levee collapse that made evacuation by roads impossible. Flooding has been especially devastating in rural communities where the full economic impact due to the loss of crops, livestock, and equipment isn’t known yet. “Our hearts go out to those whose lives and livelihoods have been impacted by the recent flooding,” CoBank said in a statement. “While recovery is long-term, we hope our joint contribution will help ease the burden.” *********************************************************************************** Converting Dairy Waste to Renewable Natural Gas Amp Americas, a dairy renewable natural gas (RNG) company has completed a project that converts dairy waste into RNG in Darlington, Wisconsin. The facility, now fully operational at Darlington Ridge Farms, is the latest of Amp Americas 12 operating digesters in Wisconsin, Indiana, Idaho, and Minnesota. The project at Darlington Ridge Farms utilizes continuous stirred tank reactor anaerobic digesters to convert 90,000 gallons of dairy cow waste per day into renewable energy. The project captures methane that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, purifies it, and then injects it into the Alliant Energy natural gas pipeline. The RNG is used as a clean, carbon-negative transportation fuel, reducing up to 27,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year. “Our RNG facilities prevent and capture methane from thousands of dairy cows across America,” says Grant Zimmerman, Amp Americas CEO. “Our renewable fuel reduces the cost of sustainably managing dairy waste.” *********************************************************************************** USGC Touts Corn Sustainability in China U.S. Grains Council members met with key partners and customers in China to talk about the eco-friendly benefits of U.S. corn and how the Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol helps importers qualify their products. The Chinese government recently unveiled its corporate sustainability framework. These procedures go into effect in 2027 and were developed in line with the International Sustainability Standards Board. “The Chinese market is signaling it’s looking to align with international sustainability standards, and this creates an opportunity thanks to U.S. corn growers’ long tradition of conservation and environmental stewardship,” says Manuel (man-WELL) Sanchez, USGC director in China. ”This was the perfect time to introduce the CSAP to the Chinese market and leverage the great work U.S. farmers are already doing to enhance U.S. agriculture’s market share in China.” The sustainability standards that China adopts will have ripple effects on the global economy, and USGC wants U.S. farmers to be ready.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 23, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets U.S. existing sales for June are due out at 9:00 a.m. CDT Tuesday, but it is the latest weather forecasts that grain traders will be most interested in. Weather A stalled front across the South continues to be active for Tuesday, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms from Texas into the Carolinas. Another front dropping south from Canada will keep showers and thunderstorms going across the Great Lakes as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 22, 2024 |

Low Prices Continue Pressure on Farm Income Farmers are on track to harvest some of their biggest corn and soybean crops ever. The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book says the ongoing decline in commodity prices is putting farm income in questionable territory. “Regional Fed banks in Chicago and Minneapolis say the farm income outlook had weakened in recent months,” the Beige Book says. “Agricultural conditions in the Kansas City Fed’s District says farmers faced headwinds from weak crop prices.” The Sixth District of Atlanta said agricultural conditions have improved slightly in recent weeks as cattle and poultry sales remained strong. Farmers in Chicago’s Seventh District have been slow to sell crops from storage and were holding back selling ahead of the fall harvest because of low prices. The Eighth District of St. Louis reported soil conditions have improved relative to the drought conditions during the last growing season. Crop conditions in the 11th District around Dallas broadly improved in most areas. *********************************************************************************** Despite Low Demand, Fertilizer Prices Remain High Fertilizer prices remain higher despite agriculture being past the high-demand spring season. Josh Linville of StoneX told Ag Web Dot Com that multiple global factors are the reason prices have stayed high. Lower European production is the first reason as skyrocketing natural gas prices have cut EU production by 25 percent. Brazil is another reason as high costs have led to a decrease in many of the country’s production plants. China’s restriction on fertilizer exports means the government figured out they can make sure there’s enough for their own people and reduce the domestic price. Restrictions are also coming out of Egypt due to heat and people trying to cool their homes as a result, so natural gas supplies are getting tight. In addition to an export shortage from other countries, the U.S. has also restricted imports from Morrocco, Russia, and China, which Linville says are a big part of the marketplace. ********************************************************************************** Ag Spray Drone Distributors Form Coalition A coalition of agricultural spray drone distributors is banding together to form a grassroots industry group. The move comes in response to proposed legislation aimed at banning drones manufactured by Chinese companies. The coalition consists of Agri Spray Drones, Bestway Ag, Drone Nerds, HSE-UAV, Pegasus Robotics, and Rantizo and intends to represent, protect, and advocate for the interests of the agricultural industry in the use of spray drone technology. Recent legislative proposals like H.R. 2864, which passed in the House, seek to ban drones manufactured by Chinese companies due to security concerns. However, the proposals currently being presented and discussed fail to consider other methods to address security concerns while also avoiding the significant impact such bans would have on the agricultural industry. Drones play a vital role in agriculture, including giving options for aerial application, creating jobs in rural America, and are a positive way to support precision and sustainable agriculture. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Organization Names 2004 American Star Finalists The National FFA Organization announced the 16 finalists for its 2024 top achievement awards: American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement, and American Star in Agriscience. The American Star Awards represent the best among thousands of American FFA Degree recipients. The award recognizes FFA members who have developed outstanding agricultural skills and competencies by completing a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program. A required activity in FFA, an SAE allows members to learn by doing. Members can own and operate an agricultural business, intern at an agricultural business, or conduct an agriculture-based scientific experiment and report the results. Other requirements to achieve the award include demonstrating top management skills, completing key agricultural education, scholastic, and leadership requirements, and earning an American FFA Degree, the organization’s highest level of student achievement. One winner will be announced in each category at the 97th National FFA Convention this fall. *********************************************************************************** BQ-9000 Program Assures Quality Biofuel Production The National Renewable Energy Laboratory released its seventh report documenting the quality of biodiesel from the U.S. and Canadian-based producers that participate in the BQ-9000 program. The comprehensive report details the quality of biodiesel based on monthly data collected throughout 2023. The BQ-9000 program, a voluntary quality-control assurance initiative within the biodiesel industry, will continue playing a critical role in ensuring high standards for biodiesel production. The 2023 report features several advancements and a more complete analysis. “The BQ-9000s program’s commitment to quality assurance is evident in the continued improvement and expansion of the parameters we assess,” says Scott Fenwick, technical director at Clean Fuels Alliance America. ‘This year’s report not only reinforces the high standards maintained by biodiesel producers but also provides valuable insights that can drive further achievements in the industry.” The NREL says it remains dedicated to supporting the biodiesel industry through rigorous analysis and disseminating quality data. *********************************************************************************** Corn Sales for Overseas Delivery Declines The USDA says sales of corn to overseas buyers declined during the week ending on July 11 while wheat and soybean sales rose. Corn sales for delivery in the 2023-2024 marketing year totaled 437,800 metric tons. That’s down 19 percent from the prior week and 10 percent from the previous four-week average. Japan was the top corn buyer at 191,200 metric tons. Sales for the next marketing year were reported at 485,700 tons. Exports jumped by 26 percent to 1.1 million tons. Soybean sales rose 10 percent week to week to 228,100 metric tons. USDA says that’s down 29 percent from the average. Egypt was the biggest buyer at 92,000 tons. For the 2024-2025 marketing year, sales were reported at 507,000 tons. Wheat sales rose to 578,500 metric tons, more than double the previous week and up one percent from the average. South Korea bought the most at 119,000 tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 22, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will look over the latest weather forecasts as more corn enters the pollination stage. The presidential election will get more attention this week after President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign this weekend and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Sporadic showers and some thunderstorms will pop up across the Corn Belt on Monday and could be more focused over Minnesota Mondy afternoon and evening. Meanwhile, a stalled front from Texas to the Carolinas and Virginia will be more active with widespread showers and thunderstorms developing throughout the day but especially Monday afternoon. Temperatures continue to be mild in most areas, though heat over the west is leaking east of the Rockies in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 19, 2024 |

Farmland Values Stabilizing Farmland values have stabilized in Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. A Benchmark Farm Value Trends Report from Farm Credit Service of America and Frontier Farm Credit says benchmark values rose just 0.07 percent. “The combination of higher interest rates and tighter margins for grain producers is having an impact on cropland values,” says Tim Koch, executive vice president for the two associations that operate as a collaboration. “Several years of strong profitability created optimism in the real estate market and helped offset the impact of the Fed’s rate hikes in 2022 and 2023.” While buyers seem willing to compete for limited land, falling grain prices are shifting attention to the more challenging economic environment. Iowa, which is normally on the leading edge of market trends, saw land values decline for the first time in five years. Despite that pullback, Iowa’s real estate values are up 60 percent since 2019. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Innovate Products Fuel Dairy Market Growth While U.S. consumers drink less milk every year, overall dairy sales are on a positive streak. Cheese, butter, and yogurt are fueling category growth, along with new dairy-based products designed to capitalize on convenience, health, and snacking trends. A new CoBank report says the outlook for dairy retail sales remains strong with additional room for growth even as consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors evolve. “The healthy snacking category is a growing megatrend that dairy products can capitalize on with a host of conveniently packaged solutions from low-fat cheeses to specialty yogurts to functional dairy drinks,” says Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank. Cheese continues to anchor the dairy category, with annual sales climbing. Butter is enjoying a comeback in the U.S. as per capita consumption has climbed 43 percent in 25 years. Yogurt has moved from being a morning meal to becoming an anytime snack or healthy dessert choice. ********************************************************************************** Financial Experts Want Support for U.S. Sugar Policy Five dozen farm lenders and financial experts sent a letter to House and Senate Ag Committee leadership urging Congress to strengthen U.S. sugar policy in the farm bill and oppose efforts to weaken the safety net. “An effective safety net is essential when lenders consider extending operating loans to farmers, given the high level of investments necessary to run a successful sugarbeet or sugarcane operation and the financing necessary for processing those crops into raw sugar,” the letter says. Improvements to U.S. sugar policy will help sustain a “stable financial framework for continued investment by family farmers at the farm and sugar-processing levels,” the letter continues. The letter was signed by CoBank and 59 other lending institutions, Certified Public Accountants, and tax professionals in more than a dozen states. Any efforts to undermine the effectiveness of the no-cost U.S. sugar policy would increase the likelihood of farm operating loan defaults. *********************************************************************************** USB Sets Forward-Thinking 2025 Budget The 77 farmer-leaders serving on the United Soybean Board approved $173.8 million for the 2025 fiscal year budget. The budget supports research, promotion, and education investment portfolios selected through the USB Portfolio Development Process. These investments drive demand for U.S. Soy and return value to all U.S. soybean farmers. “With wet conditions in the north and dry conditions in the south, growing soybeans has been a challenge for many farmers across the nation,” says Steve Reinhard, USB chair. “One of the checkoff’s benefits is that farmer-led investments continually focus on building a more resilient soybean to withstand weather conditions, pests, and weed pressure while also prioritizing demand creation.” As Reinhard looks to fiscal year 2025 investments, he’s impressed with the innovative and novel ideas by soybean farmers to not only protect soy production but grow the market across the animal ag sector, biofuels, and product innovations. For information, go to unitedsoybean.org. *********************************************************************************** EIA: SAF Production Capacity Will Continue to Grow The Energy Information Administration is predicting the production capacity of sustainable aviation fuel in the U.S. to increase from 2,000 barrels a day to 30,000 barrels a day this year. That’s if all announced capacity additions manage to successfully come online. Developers expect Phillips 66’s Rodeo Renewed Project to produce about 10,000 barrels a day beginning this summer. Diamond Green Diesel’s Port Arthur SAF project is predicted to produce around 15,000 barrels per day by the end of 2024. SAF is an alternative to petroleum jet fuel. It’s produced from agricultural and waste feedstocks and consumed in blends with petroleum jet fuel. About 1.6 million barrels a day of petroleum jet fuel was consumed in the U.S. during 2023, and the EIA predicts jet fuel demand by 2050 to exceed two million barrels a day. At the beginning of 2024, only two plants could produce SAF: one in California and the other in Montana. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Production Forecast at Eight-Year High U.S. all-wheat production for 2024-2025 is forecast at 2.008 billion bushels, the largest wheat crop since 2016-2017. Production is up 134 million bushels from the previous month and 11 percent higher than the previous year. Larger production for Hard Red Winter and Hard Red Spring are the major factors driving the year-to-year increase in total wheat production, while smaller increases are seen for White and Durum. Soft Red Winter is down from the previous year’s bumper crop. The total area planted to wheat this year is lower than last year, but improved weather conditions in HRW areas resulted in lower abandonment and higher areas harvested for that class. HRW yields are also up substantially with the improved conditions. The HRS production forecast benefits from favorable weather during crop development and results in record yields that more than offset the effect of smaller areas harvested. Stronger supplies should make U.S. wheat exports more competitive.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 19, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets Traders are apt to keep watching the latest weather forecasts, while simultaneously ignoring numerous reports of crop damage. USDA's cattle on-feed report for July 1 will be out at 2 p.m. with June placements expected to be 3% to 4% lower than a year ago. Weather A front that has settled from Texas to the Carolinas will continue with showers for Friday. A system that has moved into the Northern Plains will bring some areas of isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms as well. Mild and dry conditions over the Midwest are a welcome sight for many.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 18, 2024 |

Clean Fuels Intends to Sue the EPA Over Delay Clean Fuels Alliance delivered a formal notice of intent to sue the Environmental Protection Agency for its failure to issue timely 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard RVOs. By statute, EPA is required to finalize volumes 14 months before the start of a compliance year. For 2026, that deadline would come at the end of October 2024. On June 28, the White House Office of Management and Budget released the Spring 2024 Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The agenda set a timeline for EPA to propose the 2026 RFS volumes by March 2025 and finalize the rule by December 2025. “EPA’s failure to timely issue the 2026 RFS volumes compounds another issue: EPA set the volumes for 2023 through 2025 too low,” Clean Fuels says. Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels says, “Stakeholder organizations asked the EPA to ensure it met the deadline for the 2026 rule and get it back on track.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuel Tax Credits Out of Reach for Many Farmers Sustainable aviation fuel and clean fuel production tax credits have the potential to benefit farmers while lowering carbon emissions. However, the shortcomings in the provisions could put the benefits out of reach for many U.S. farmers. Four groups, including the American Farm Bureau, American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, and National Farmers Union, sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young urging them to ensure the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) works for U.S. farmers. “Without clear domestic feedstock requirements in the tax credit, the benefits of this policy are at risk of being diverted from American farmers,” the letter says. “There is no current requirement that feedstocks be grown domestically, which means foreign feedstock producers can take advantage of the credit.” The groups also say this goes against the broader goal of supporting U.S. agriculture and rural communities. ********************************************************************************** Flash Drought Intensifies in Mid-Atlantic Region Following weeks of intense summer heat and little rainfall, AccuWeather says a flash drought has developed and intensified in a region stretching from the Carolinas to Pennsylvania. A flash drought is described as the sudden arrival of drought conditions that are set in motion by lower-than-normal rates of precipitation, accompanied by abnormally high temperatures, winds, and solar radiation. “Severe and extreme drought conditions developed in the Carolinas, where the lack of rainfall combined with relentless heat have dried out the area,” says AccuWeather Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. “Drought has expanded across the Southeast, where we could also use some rain.” Unlike long-lasting droughts similar to the ones observed across the western United States in recent years, flash droughts are often short-term in nature and can disappear quickly. The effects of a flash drought are most notable in the top layers of soil and lead to detrimental effects on agriculture and crop yields. *********************************************************************************** Sheep Industry Center Requests Proposals The National Sheep Industry Improvement Center Board of Directors is accepting grant proposals designed to help improve the American sheep industry. At the request of the American Sheep Industry Association, the Center was established as part of the 2008 Farm Bill. As part of the 2019 Farm Bill, the Center was awarded funding by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service to be used for the Sheep Production and Marketing Grant Program. Grant funding can be used on activities designed to strengthen and enhance the production and marketing of sheep and sheep products in the United States. Financial assistance provided by the Center must be used to accomplish one or more of several specific objectives, including strengthening and improving the long-term sustainability of the lamb and wool industry’s infrastructure by increasing the numbers in production. The average grant in the last four years has been approximately $30,000. For more information, go to nsiic.org. *********************************************************************************** Russian Wheat Harvest Forecast Drops Farmers in Russia’s breadbasket are battling temperatures over 120 degrees and trying to save a wheat crop hit hard by a heatwave, frosts, and even floods. Rostov, one of Russia’s key wheat-growing regions, accounted for 11 percent of the country’s total grain harvest last year, and ag ministry officials are monitoring it to make more adjustments to an already soft 2024 wheat forecast. The ministry’s most recent estimate says the Russian grain harvest will hit 132 million tons, nine percent below the 145 million in 2023 and 16 percent from a record 158 million in 2022. After a serious heatwave followed frosts in the spring, Rostov expects its grain harvest to drop approximately 38 percent this year to ten million tons. An agronomist says the wheat initially came out of winter in good condition, and the harvest prospects were excellent. Now, they’re only harvesting what’s left after a rough season. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Looking for Singers to Enter Anthem Contest The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is looking for the next singing sensation to open CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio, Texas, February 4-6. The 12th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest is accepting entries through October 15 at convention.ncba.org. The contest winner will perform the Star Spangled Banner at the convention’s Opening General Session and receive round-trip airfare to San Antonio, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans, and a shirt from Roper or Stetson. Any member of the NCBA, American National CattleWomen, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, or family members are eligible to participate in the process. Previous NCBA National Anthem Contest winners aren’t eligible. The top four finalists will be chosen by October 21, and videos will be posted to the website, where voting will be open to the public from November 1 through November 15. The winner will be announced on November 18.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 18, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of leading U.S. economic indicators will be out a 9 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A cold front continues its pursuit southward, settling from Texas into the Carolinas for Thursday with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will also develop in the High Plains as well. Temperatures have become much more comfortable behind that front across the Corn Belt, reducing stress for any areas that have missed out on the recent rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 17, 2024 |

Groups Warn Against Herbicide Tariffs The National Corn Growers Association joined five other commodity groups in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on possible herbicide tariffs. The groups are asking the secretary to consider the impacts on farmers as she reviews a petition by ag chemical company Corteva that would place duties on imports of the herbicide 2,4-D. “Restricting imports of 2,4-D will have wide-ranging consequences for farmers,” the letter says. “American farmers cannot solely rely on Corteva, which is the only domestic supplier of 2,4-D, because there’s not enough to meet demand.” The letter also says that if it’s granted, the petition would cause availability shortages and hamper growers’ ability to be successful. “Restricting the availability of 2,4-D will be very harmful at a time when farmers are grappling with rising input costs and low commodity prices,” the letter adds. “Farmers can’t handle additional costs in what’s already a period of tight margins.” *********************************************************************************** Brazil’s Corn Harvest Drops but Still Second-Largest Ever Brazil’s farmers are expected to harvest 4.561 billion bushels of corn in the 2023-2024 season, including the country’s first, second, and third crops. Farmdoc Daily says that is 12 percent less than last year’s record harvest. Brazil’s National Supply Company, Conab, says the expected reduction in total corn production is mainly attributed to smaller acreage and lower yields in the second crop that accounts for approximately 75 percent of the nation’s production. Despite weather challenges in a year strongly influenced by El Niño, the anticipated total still will be the second-largest crop Brazil has ever produced. The projected reduction in Brazil’s total corn harvest is a result of two factors: a decrease in planted area caused by low prices and a decline in yields caused by adverse weather in critical growing regions. Conab’s latest update says the total planted area for all crops will fall by 6.3 percent to 51.5 million bushels. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Deadline for Emergency Relief Program Applications The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the deadline for commodity and specialty crop producers to apply for the Emergency Relief Program for 2022 natural disaster losses is August 14, 2024. The Farm Service Agency began accepting ERP 2022 applications in October 2023. “If natural disasters impacted your farm or ranch in 2022, there’s still time to submit your application for Emergency Relief Program assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Don’t delay. Gather up your documents and contact your local office to complete the application process.” Through the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, Congress allocated $3.2 billion in funding to help cover an estimated $10 billion in uncovered crop losses. ERP 2022 covers losses to crops, trees, bushes, and vines due to qualifying calendar-year 2022 natural disaster events like wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze (including a polar vortex,) smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought, and related conditions. *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma is State Number 13 with HPAI in Dairy Cattle Oklahoma is the 13th state to detect bird flu in dairy cattle. The USDA confirmed it even though the infection happened months ago. Reuters says the confirmation shows the outbreak was more widespread than authorities knew after the virus was first found in dairy cattle in late March. Bird flu has been found in over 150 U.S. dairy herds. The cases are part of an outbreak of H5N1 that’s spread globally in wild birds, infecting domestic poultry and different species of mammals. Even though four dairy workers have tested positive, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk to the public remains low. An Oklahoma dairy collected the first positive sample in April when it suspected its herd may have been infected. On its website, USDA reported two positive herds in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Ag Department says the positive sample is from one dairy that has two separate barns. ********************************************************************************** U.S. Soybean Supply to Rebound in 2024-2025 Marketing Year The U.S. soybean supply for marketing year 2024-2025 is forecast at 4.8 billion bushels, eight percent higher than the previous marketing year but down 20 million bushels from last month’s forecast. According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service Acreage Report released on June 28, 86.1 million acres of soybeans were planted in the U.S. for MY 2024-2025, three percent more than last year. The yield forecast remains unchanged at 52 bushels per acre. U.S. soybean production is forecast at 4.4 billion bushels for 2024-2025, down 15 million bushels from last month but 270.3 million bushels higher than production in the previous marketing year. With a lower production forecast and unchanged crush and export forecasts, U.S. ending stocks for 2024-2025 are projected at 435 million bushels, down 20 million bushels from last month’s forecast. The U.S. season-average soybean price for 2024-2025 is down a dime this month to $11.10 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** EPA Announces Earlier Protection from Pesticide Drift The Environmental Protection Agency is putting quicker protections in place for farmworkers, their families, and the general public near where pesticides are applied. EPA will now assess the potential for people to be exposed to a pesticide when it drifts away from where it’s applied earlier in the agency’s review process. This applies to new active ingredient pesticide registrations and new use decisions. This updated process will protect people from pesticide spray drift 15 years sooner in the review process for new pesticides than has historically occurred. “People who live and work near farms can unintentionally be exposed to pesticides, and it’s our job to do as much as possible to prevent that from happening,” says Michael Freedhoff of the EPA. “This new policy ensures that vital public health protections are in place when a pesticide is initially approved so people don’t have to wait years for the protections they need.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 17, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. housing starts for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Federal Reserve's report of industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be out at 2 p.m., the same time as USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook. Weather A cold front continues to work its way southward across the Central and Southern Plains through the Ohio Valley on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will develop along and ahead of the front throughout the day and may cause some heavy rain, especially in the Ozarks. Much milder conditions are filling in behind the front while it remains hot ahead of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 16, 2024 |

Lawsuit Filed Against BLM Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council filed a lawsuit against the Bureau of Land Management’s “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule. The lawsuit, filed in the District Court of Wyoming, seeks to overturn the rule that threatens generations of family ranching operations in the U.S. by undermining the long-held balance of multiple-use management. “NCBA is suing the BLM to stand up for America’s western ranchers and push back on this harmful rule that only serves as a stepping stone to removing livestock grazing from our nation’s public lands,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the BLM is supposed to balance the multiple uses of public lands, including grazing, energy, mining, timber, and recreation.” However, he also says the BLM’s rule upends the system by creating a brand new use for federal lands without Congressional approval and in conflict with federal law. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Corn Farming’s Economic Contribution A new study by the National Corn Growers Association shows American corn growers were responsible for a $152 billion boost to the U.S. economy in 2023. The report looked at the number of ways corn growers help shape the economy, including economic output, contributions to the Gross Domestic Product, tax revenues, labor income, and employment statistics. “The data shows that growers remain deeply rooted in rural America, where they serve as pillars of economic growth,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson, who authored the analysis. “They work to foster technological innovation, expand commercial opportunities, advance free trade, build the bioeconomy, and feed a hungry world.” Corn grower production directly contributed $20.7 billion to the gross domestic product and provided $12 billion in labor wages and benefits. The economic impact of corn farming extended across 524 different industry sectors in all 50 states, reinforcing its broad influence on the national economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Makes Large Investment in Farm to School Grants Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is awarding a record-breaking $14.3 million in Farm to School Grants to 154 projects in 43 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. These investments will help 1.9 million children eat more nutritious foods in school while supporting farmers and producers in their local and regional communities. “Farm to School is a huge win for children, schools, farmers, producers, and communities,” Vilsack says. “When schools have access to fresh, local food options with homegrown flavor, they can serve delicious, healthy dishes that kids are excited to eat while also supporting the local economy.” He also says the grants continue USDA’s work to address both food and nutrition insecurity, ensuring that not only are U.S. kids getting fed, but they’re getting fed well. Over 67,000 schools participate in Farm to School, and more information is available on the Farm to School website. *********************************************************************************** Summer Lambventures is Bigger than Ever The American Lamb Board recruited outstanding hosts from around the country to throw their best lamb-themed parties, complete with mouth-watering recipes and stunning photos. Nine hosts were chosen from over 100 applicants to host summer parties for ten friends in June. After nearly 100 partygoers experienced the dishes firsthand, consumers are now going to the AmericanLamb.com website to vote for their favorites and get entered into a drawing for a number of prizes. While the party host with the most votes wins the grand prize, a $1,000 Dream Culinary Prize Pack based on their party personality, consumers can also win themed gift cards just for voting. Voters can discover the hosts and their featured dishes in each category or visit the AmericanLamb.com website to view the full menus. Party themes include the “Patio Party Planners,” “Fit Foodies,” and “Outdoor Adventures.” Consumers can continue to vote for their favorites through August 15. ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Supports Letter on Higher RFS Volumes A bipartisan group of 37 House members sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan encouraging him to support biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuel volumes that fully account for availability and production capacity. Clean Fuels thanked all the Representatives who led the way and signed off on the letter. “Producing advanced biofuels in the U.S. promotes economic opportunities for communities across the country and increases market access for our nation’s farmers,” the letter says. “A strong RFS and available homegrown agricultural feedstocks are crucial to meeting the nation’s goal for new advanced biofuels for sustainable aviation (SAF), maritime, rail, home heating, and off-road heavy-duty markets.” Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels appreciates the bipartisan effort to urge EPA to meet statutory deadlines for the RFS. “Increased production and market space for advanced biofuels has always been the RFS program goal,” he says. “EPA needs to get the program back on track.” *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Top Five Majors at Ag Colleges Picking out a college major can be a daunting task. Colleges across the Midwest, including the University of Minnesota and South Dakota State University, were surveyed to see which majors had the best graduation and job placement rates. If you are a college student who doesn’t know what major to pick, here are five ag majors found to be in demand. The first is animal science/veterinary science. Careers in animal science include more than being a veterinarian. Another is Ag Business and economics. University of Missouri data says agribusiness management students have an 88 percent graduation rate and 100 percent career success rate. Crop science, while it can get called different names, produces plant specialists of all kinds. General agriculture is an option to explore different ag education sectors. Last is biochemistry, which may not be top of mind in ag education, but it is in many ag and natural resources programs.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 16, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders have been hitting the short side of grains pretty heavy lately and will be watching for rains expected across the Eastern Corn Belt this week. U.S. retail sales for June are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. Weather A cold front will continue to work south across the Central U.S. Tuesday, providing scattered showers and storms from the Central Plains into the eastern Midwest. Southern areas of the Corn Belt could also see locally heavy rainfall with the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

July WASDE Raises Corn Production, Lowers Corn Stocks The July World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates say the 2024-2025 corn outlook calls for larger supplies, greater domestic use and exports, and lower ending stocks. Corn production is forecast up by 240 million bushels on greater planted and harvested area from the June Acreage Report. Yield is unchanged at 181 bushels an acre, and ending stocks are down by five million bushels. The season-average farm price is down ten cents to $4.30 a bushel. Soybean production is projected at 4.4 billion bushels, 15 million lower on less harvested area. The yield forecast is unchanged at 52 bushels, and ending stocks are down 20 million bushels from June. The season-average soybean price is down a dime to $11.10. The wheat outlook is for larger supplies, domestic use, exports, and ending stocks. Ending stocks are predicted at 856 million bushels, the highest in five years. The season-average price is down 80 cents at $5.70. *********************************************************************************** Ag Spending Bills Advance in Both Chambers The Senate Appropriations Committee approved the Agriculture-FDA spending bill 27-0 last week. Farm Policy News says both chambers of Congress have now approved their Fiscal Year 2025 Ag-FDA funding bills out of the full committees. The bill was approved after a minimal debate in the Senate, with Senators quickly approving the bill and the accompanying manager’s amendment. The House Appropriations Committee moved a spending bill forward that will cut the Agriculture Department’s budget by $308 million if it passes in its current form. The bill would allocate $22 billion for USDA. The proposal was approved 29-26 by House Appropriations Committee members and is slated for consideration on the House floor during the week of July 22. The bill sets aside $25.9 billion for USDA, FDA, and related agencies like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Also, the Senate bill rejects the House bill’s deep cut in the Food for Peace Program. *********************************************************************************** Beef Checkoff Returns Over $13 for Every $1 Spent An independent analysis of the Beef Checkoff thoroughly assessed the effectiveness and additional financial benefits produced by the program’s demand-driving activities. The study, conducted by Dr. Harry Kaiser of Cornell University, had objectives to measure, including whether national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities increased demand for beef products. The study also wanted to determine the combined benefits of those activities in terms of their incremental financial impact on beef producers and importers. The Beef Checkoff’s Evaluation Committee was very pleased with the results of the latest study and said the statistics uncovered tell them that the committee is achieving the goal of providing exporters and importers with an excellent return on investment. The study calculated the ROI at $13.41 for every dollar spent. Without the Beef Checkoff, the study shows total domestic beef demand would have been 2.4 billion pounds lower per year than the actual results, and prices would have been 7.8 percent lower. *********************************************************************************** USDA Terminates Cranberry Marketing Order The USDA is terminating Marketing Order Number 929, which regulates the handling of cranberries grown in several states, including Minnesota, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and several others. In October 2023, USDA suspended the Cranberry Marketing Committee’s authority to collect assessments and reports from handlers after a continuance referendum failed to show producer support. A notice with the 60-day public comment period on the proposed termination was published in the Federal Register in 2023. During the comment period, the Agricultural Marketing Service received only five comments. After considering the comments, it was determined that the termination of the order was appropriate. USDA informed Congress of the termination in April 2024 in compliance with the requirement to notify Congress at least 60 days before terminating a federal market order. The final rule for this action with public comment analysis was published in the Federal Register on July 12, 2024. More information is available at ams.usda.gov. ********************************************************************************** Fewer Farmers are Responding to NASS Surveys The number of farmers responding to surveys from the National Agricultural Statistics Service has dropped in recent years. Ag Web Dot Com looked into response rates after a new study from the American Statistical Association warned the reliability of U.S. economic data is at risk for several reasons. In the early 1990s, response rates for NASS crop surveys were 80 to 85 percent. By the late 2010s, response rates had fallen below 60 percent in some cases. For a more specific example, the 2017 Census of Agriculture had a response rate of over 71 percent, while the 2022 Census had a response rate of 61 percent. Factors affecting response rates include concerns about data privacy and constraints from farmers. An increasing number of people requesting information from farmers discourages some respondents. Refusal rates are rising as well. Lance Honig of NASS says, “It’s mostly an inability to reach people that’s increasing.” *********************************************************************************** HPAI Hits Minnesota Turkey Flocks The USDA is confirming an outbreak of avian flu affecting two Minnesota turkey flocks. The agency’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed cases in Kandiyohi (can-dee-YO-hi) and Renville counties. The case in Renville County affected more than 15,000 breeder hens. The cases in Kandiyohi County affect nearly 22,000 hens and about 4,300 toms. These are the first cases found in either county in 2024. Minnesota has now seen 17 commercial poultry flocks struck by the virus in 2024. No state has had more flocks struck by HPAI during the 2022 through 2024 outbreak. In 2022, the virus appeared in 81 flocks, and in 2023, it appeared in 34 flocks. The ongoing bird flu outbreak is the largest animal disease event in U.S. history, killing 58.7 million birds across 47 states since January 2022. APHIS has spent at least $1.3 billion in response to bird flu and will eventually reach $2 billion.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Storms and Crop Conditions, Cattle Placements Lead Coverage 1. Crop reports become important: With each week, the Monday USDA NASS Crop Progress reports give the world increasing insight into how the 2024 corn, soybean and other crops are shaping up. There will be careful attention to crop conditions following the mixed bag of flash droughts and flash floods the past several weeks. 2. Post-Beryl storms: After Hurricane Beryl spun up storms from Texas to New England, some areas will be drier this week. But there are still chances of showers and storms across the Midwest, while a front from the Rockies increases the chance of storms in the Northern and Central Plains. Most areas will see an early week warmup followed by somewhat cooler conditions as the front moves in. 3. Market signals: Last week's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report brought some slightly bullish news, actually less bearish than expected. We'll watch how world news, including reaction to the weekend assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, influences commodity and equity markets. 4. Dairy herd safety: We're continuing to track the spread of H5N1 avian influenza on dairy cattle, including the latest on biosecurity efforts in the dairy industry. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, reports start at 7:30 a.m. with the Empire State Manufacturing Survey. At 10 a.m. we'll have latest Grain Inspections reports, followed at 11 a.m. with the ERS Feed Grains Database update. At 2 p.m., ERS Season Average Prices and Wheat Data hits, followed by the 3 p.m. USDA NASS Crop Progress report. We'll have analysis of the latest crop conditions as well. Tuesday reports also start at 7:30 a.m. with a host of updates, including U.S. Retail Sales, Import Price Index, and Imports and Exports numbers. At 9 a.m. there's the Business Inventories and Home Builder Confidence Index. At 11 a.m. is the ERS Oil Crops Outlook. At 2 p.m. the ERS Feed and Wheat Outlooks are out. On Wednesday we'll see Housing Starts and Building Permits reports at 7:30 a.m., with Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization updates at 8:15 a.m. At 9:30 a.m. EIA's weekly petroleum status report including ethanol is out, and at 2 p.m. we'll see Broiler Hatchery numbers. The early reports continue Thursday with the 7:30 a.m. Grain Export sales and Initial Jobless Claims numbers. At 9 a.m., we'll await the latest Leading Economic Indicators and at 10:30 a.m. we'll see the Weekly Economic Index. Friday we'll have the CFTC Commitment of Traders report (COT) at 2:30 p.m., with the latest USDA Cattle on Feed numbers at 3 p.m., including our analysis on those numbers.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 15, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and may have thought a little more about Friday's new supply and demand estimates from USDA, especially regarding corn. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather Much of the Corn Belt will see chances for scattered showers and storms Monday. A storm system across Iowa, southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and northern Indiana could produce damaging straight-line winds later in the day or Monday night. Large hail and a few isolated tornadoes may also accompany the storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 12, 2024 |

Grain Prices Hit Lowest Level Since COVID Grain prices have fallen to their lowest level since COVID-19. A Bloomberg report extended this year’s losses to 17 percent, with grains trading at the lowest point since 2020. It’s a sharp reversal from the post-COVID rally that sent grain prices more than doubling through 2022. University of Illinois Ag Economist Scott Irwin says the falling grain prices could mean significant financial losses for producing corn and soybeans this year. “Regardless of the fine details of crop insurance and government payments, alarm bells should be going off about the scale of potential corn and soybean losses for the 2024 crop in the Corn Belt,” Irwin says. “Right now, the losses look punishing due to the combination of rising expenses in recent years and the significant drop in corn and soybean prices.” He also says corn losses could surpass $200 per acre, and soybean losses could easily reach $98 per acre. *********************************************************************************** Tractor and Combine Sales Drop in June U.S. sales of ag tractors and combines in June fell below the reported sales from the same month in 2023. New Data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says June sales of two-wheel drive tractors dropped 16 percent compared to 2023, while four-wheel drive tractors fell 1.3 percent in the same timeframe. Combine sales declined as well, finishing the month 31 percent below June 2023. “June’s sales of ag tractors and combines follow a May that also showed a sales slowdown,” says AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “This softness in the market follows a robust five years of sales.” He also says the challenges facing the subcompact tractor market illustrate why the passage of a strong farm bill is needed to lift rural America and U.S. farmers. In Canada, sales of four-wheel drive tractors were a bright spot, rising 10 percent in June compared to 2023. Combine sales rose 13 percent. *********************************************************************************** CA Drivers Could Save $2.7 Billion Annually With E15 A new study finds California drivers could save up to 20 cents per gallon if the state allowed gas stations to sell E15 fuel. California is the only state that doesn’t allow fuel made of 15 percent ethanol and 85 percent gasoline. The potential savings for California drivers could reach $2.7 billion annually. “Consumers have the potential to gain significantly from the introduction and purchase of E15,” the study says. “In particular, our estimates suggest an approximately 20 cents per gallon discount for E15 compared with E10 after adjusting for energy content.” The study authors also highlighted the benefit of E15’s lower carbon emissions. “In California, price savings for lower GHG intensity fuels are larger, likely due to California-specific policies incentivizing low carbon fuels,” the study concludes. The study, sponsored by the Renewable Fuels Association, says state regulators are considering the approval of E15 after testing showed it offers important emissions benefits. *********************************************************************************** EPA Could Miss the 2026 RFS Volume Deadline The Environmental Protection Agency is required by statute to finalize 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard volumes by October 31, 2024. However, reports say those volumes for 2026 and beyond could be delayed until 2025. If a unified agenda released by the White House comes to pass, it could mean December 2025 will be the finalization date. Great American Crop Insurance News says the EPA plans to release its RFS proposal by March 2025, with a rule being finalized by the end of next year. Reports say the unified agenda sets deadlines for all regulatory actions but isn’t necessarily final. Under the latest rule set that was finalized in June, the EPA set the RFS volumes only through 2025. The rule was said by those in the industry to have brought some market certainty for the biofuels industry. The unified agenda could mean the next RFS volumes will be set by a new administration. ********************************************************************************** NCBA Concludes Summer Business Meeting National Cattlemen’s Beef Association members wrapped up the summer business meeting in San Diego, California. Cattle producers discussed many of the top issues facing the cattle industry, including risk management, taxes, and business regulation. “Our grassroots members are the NCBA’s backbone,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “The policies passed at the meeting will direct our association’s advocacy efforts in Washington to strengthen our industry’s profitability, reduce the government’s crippling regulations, and safeguard our way of life for the future.” The new policies direct the association to improve disaster relief and risk management programs, advocate for reduced capital gains tax, and oppose burdensome business registration and reporting requirements like the Corporate Transparency Act. Several existing policies were also renewed or amended. Members also discussed the implementation of USDA’s new animal disease traceability rule that will take effect in November. The Summer Business Meeting is one of two to set policy for NCBA. *********************************************************************************** Angus Foundation Golf Tourney Raises Over $15,000 After a three-hour rain delay, 83 golfers enjoyed a fun day of competition at the Angus Foundation Gold Tournament hosted at the Pleasant View Golf Course in Middleton, Wisconsin. The event is held in conjunction with the National Junior Angus Show, the National Junior Angus Association’s largest youth event of the year. “It’s hard to bargain with Mother Nature, but after the morning rain showers, the day was a huge success,” says Jimmy Stickley, Angus Foundation donor coordinator. “The teams and the players that stuck it out had a blast on and off the course, and we can’t thank everyone enough for sticking with us in the morning and seeing the day through.” The tournament welcomed 21 teams and raised more than $15,700 to support the Foundation’s commitment to education, youth, and research. First established in 1980, the Angus Foundation has distributed more than $4.2 million in youth scholarships since 1998.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 12, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will report on producer prices in June at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for July at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports will be released at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's WASDE webinar at 12:30 p.m. Friday is also the last trading day for July grain and oilseed contracts. Weather Later Friday afternoon and into the evening, isolated to scattered storms will form across the Dakotas and Central Plains. Some storms may become severe and lead to damaging winds and hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 11, 2024 |

Ag Trade Deficit Jumps in Fiscal Year Through May The agricultural trade deficit, or the value of exports from the U.S. versus imports into the country, increased in the first eight months of the fiscal year. USDA data says the deficit was at $15.2 billion thus far in the 2023-2024 marketing year that runs through September 30. That compares with a deficit of $3.89 billion during the same period last year. From October 1, 2023, through the end of May, exporters shipped $122.3 billion worth of agricultural products. At the same time, the agency report says importers brought in $137.6 billion in goods. The ag trade deficit in the 2023 fiscal year that ended on September 30 totaled a record $17.2 billion. The agency says that compared with a surplus of $1.92 billion a year earlier. Exporters shipped $13.7 billion worth of agricultural products in May while importing $18 billion, for a deficit of $4.27 billion for the month. *********************************************************************************** Flooding in Illinois as Beryl Moves Out The last of Hurricane Beryl is expected to move through the Ohio Valley and into the northeast, which the National Weather Service says will leave flooding in its wake. The agency says flooding is expected in much of northern Illinois as the last of the storm moves out of the region. “Tropical moisture will continue to contribute bands of heavy rainfall,” NWS says. “Another two inches is likely by the end of this week, which will make flooding worse in some areas.” At the other end of the forecast spectrum, extremely hot weather is on the way into western and central Nebraska, bringing the significant potential for wildfires. Temperatures in the region are expected to be among the hottest so far this year. Elevated fire weather conditions are likely as humidity values drop below 20 percent in the Panhandle and far southwest Nebraska. High temps will surpass 100 degrees. *********************************************************************************** Beryl Damage Estimate Approaches $32 Billion AccuWeather’s preliminary estimate of the total damage and economic loss from Hurricane Beryl in the United States is $28-32 billion. “Beryl will go down in the history books as a record-breaking hurricane,” says AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “It was the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record in the Atlantic Basin, causing catastrophic damage in the Windward Islands, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands before hitting the Mexican peninsula and moving to eastern Texas.” The storm also brought numerous tornadoes and flooding through eastern Texas, into Arkansas, and southeastern Missouri, with the storm then heading through the Midwest and into New England. At this point, flooding rain will become the main threat of the storm, as well as the risk for severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes east of the path of the storm. To put it into context, Hurricane Idalia caused $18-20 billion in total damage and economic loss in 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Hosting Final Workshop on Nursery Insurance Option USDA recently expanded its Nursery Value Select Crop Insurance Program to all counties in all states. The Risk Management Agency is encouraging interested nursery producers to learn more about the program through an informational workshop. It will be valuable for producers in the newly expanded areas and especially for the Nursery Field Grown and Container crop insurance program, which ends beginning with the 2026 crop year. The final Nursery Value Select workshop is on Thursday, July 18, at 2 pm Central Time. Nursery Value Select is a pilot program enabling nursery producers to select the dollar amount of coverage that best fits their management needs. Its expansion is part of the RMA’s efforts to provide insurance options for a broader group of producers, including specialty crop producers. Nursery Value Select was first available in 2021, and producers insured more than $460 million in liabilities in 2023. For more information, go to usda.gov. ********************************************************************************** FFA Alumni to Participate in Leadership Conference A select group of 50 FFA alumni from across the country will convene in Des Moines, Iowa, July 21-25 to discuss future issues and opportunities in the field of production agriculture. The annual New Century Farmer Conference convenes FFA alumni, ages 18-24, who have demonstrated leadership in their studies and work experience, earning them a sought-after spot at the conference. “The New Century Farmer Conference provides a pathway for FFA alumni to advance their leadership, personal, and career skills,” says Allie Ellis, Association Director of the National FFA Alumni and Supporters. “The conference is a dedicated time for attendees to explore diverse farm operations with industry experts and peers and learn what it takes to launch and maintain a successful career in agriculture.” Since FFA is primarily for middle and high school students, the conference offers former FFA members who’ve chosen agricultural careers a look inside the business operations of farming. *********************************************************************************** Florida Ag Teacher to Fly with the Blue Angels The Blue Angels Air Show will be featured in Pensacola, Florida this week. They’re welcoming a special guest to fly with them: Austin Courson, an agricultural education teacher, FFA advisor, and incoming assistant principal at J.M. Tate High School in Cantonment, Florida. Every year, the Blue Angels select a “key influence rider” for their work in the community. Courson was selected to fly with them on July 11 due to his steadfast commitment to his students, specifically in agricultural courses and the FFA. Under his leadership, the Tate FFA chapter earned its place among the top-performing 160 chapters out of 9,500 chapters nationwide. Courson teaches the Unmanned Aircraft in Agriculture course at Tate High School, which came about because of a funding grant from the State of Florida to teach the highly-specialized agricultural use of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Course. The course is designed to successfully link agriculture and aviation.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 11, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. consumer prices in June and an update of the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury will release its report of the federal budget in June at 1 p.m. Weather Isolated to scattered showers and storms are possible across the Plains and Midwest Thursday. A few severe storms are possible across the High Plains with the primary threats being localized damaging winds and hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 10, 2024 |

Ag Land Market Shows Signs of Settling Farmers National Company says the agricultural land market has been exceptional over the past five years. Value gains show up in all classes of land in every region of the country. “A lot has changed in the last 12 months, and even more has changed in the past five years,” says Paul Shadegg, senior vice president of real estate options. “Moving into the second half of 2023 and the first half of this year, we’ve experienced significant increases in interest rates, declining grain markets, and inflation.” Despite the negative pressures, Shadegg says the land market has been relatively resilient. However, it does show signs of settling in general, including single-digit decreases in specific areas. As buyers consider land purchases during the second half of 2024, the additional expenses for interest and lower commodity prices will be at the forefront of decision-making. “Ag land has never been more valuable,” adds Shadegg. *********************************************************************************** Top Scientists Defend Biofuels in Court Eight of the nation’s top agricultural, biomass, and greenhouse gas lifecycle scientists filed a brief on July 3rd challenging the faulty assumptions underpinning a number of attacks on the Renewable Fuel Standard. The brief was filed in the District Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor highlighted the importance of the brief, calling it a clear signal. “it’s time for environmental advocates to stop parroting fossil fuel companies and start supporting low-carbon biofuels at the gas pump,” Skor says. “Decades of data have demonstrated again and again that bioethanol has not increased crop acreage.” She points out that U.S. farm acreage is largely unchanged since the 1930s. Even the Department of Energy rejected similar claims in a letter to Growth Energy, acknowledging the scientific consensus that U.S. ethanol slashes greenhouse gas emissions by 44 to 52 percent. “It’s time for skeptics to forget debunked research,” Skor adds. *********************************************************************************** May Beef Exports Hit High Point U.S. beef export value topped $900 million in May, the highest point since June 2023. According to data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, U.S. beef exports totaled 110,133 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago but the second largest amount in 2024. Beef export value reached $902.4 million in May, three percent higher than last year and the highest in 11 months. Exports trended higher year-over-year to Japan, Mexico, the ASEAN Region, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Central America. January-May beef exports followed a similar trend, increasing five percent in value to $4.29 billion despite a four percent decline in volume. May pork exports totaled 251,447 metric tons, down four percent from a year ago, and valued at $715.8 million. That’s two percent below last year. Shipments to leading market Mexico were below last year’s volume but still trended higher in value, topping $200 million. *********************************************************************************** Finalists Announced for the #100KPork Chop Challenge The #100KPorkChop Challenge is a contest that celebrates restaurants in the Washington, D.C., Capital Beltway area that features unique and delicious pork chop recipes. The Virginia Pork Council, the Iowa Pork Producers Association, the North Carolina Pork Council, and other sponsors have announced the five finalists for the Pork Chop Challenge. After weeks of voting, the five finalists include four restaurants from Washington, D.C., and one from Arlington, Virginia. The five establishments will now advance to the final judging round, where culinary professionals and pork producers will evaluate their dishes. Judging will take place on July 11-12. The winning restaurant will receive a grand prize of $100,000, and an additional $100,000 worth of pork products will be donated to the Capital Area Food Bank, highlighting the competition’s commitment to fighting hunger. “We are immensely proud of all the participating chefs and restaurants,” says Roy Lee Lindsey of the Virginia Pork Council. ********************************************************************************** Federal Ag Spending Bills Considered This Week Appropriations leaders in both chambers of Congress will convene this week with the goal of working out key spending plans. Farm Policy News says the coming weeks are critical for pushing funding bills ahead of the upcoming August recess. The Senate Appropriations Ag-FDA subcommittee is scheduled to mark up its fiscal year 2025 spending bill on Thursday. Senate appropriators will unveil their fiscal 2025 Ag-FDA spending bill in the coming days ahead of what’s expected to be another bruising federal spending clash with House Republicans. Democrats have already expressed staunch opposition to the House GOP’s agriculture spending bill, which includes spending cuts and a controversial pilot program to test restrictions on the types of foods people can buy with SNAP benefits. The House Appropriations Committee is set to vote on that bill on July 10. The Agriculture-FDA funding proposal published Monday would allocate $25.9 billion in discretionary spending in fiscal 2025. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Holds Annual Women and Mentors Retreat The National Corn Growers Association hosted the fourth annual Women and Mentor’s Retreat in St. Louis in June. The program offers a network for women and their male allies, providing mentorships and creating a pipeline of female leaders for NCGA and other agricultural organizations. Participants at the most recent event noted that they were able to grow their leadership, communication, and professional skills while networking with others who are invested in elevating women’s voices in agricultural leadership. “The Women & Mentors Program has inspired me to continue growing as a leader while supporting new and emerging leaders,” says Joan Ruskamp, a participant from Nebraska. “Most importantly, this retreat builds a growing network of women supporting one another no matter what role each of us has in agriculture.” Attendees met with their new mentorship cohorts, which are groups based on similar interests and goals. These networks provide valuable connections and new opportunities for participants.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 10, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will track the rain progress of Tropical Storm Beryl after it brought moisture to the Eastern Corn Belt Tuesday. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the only significant report on Wednesday's docket. Weather As remnants of Beryl exit the Eastern Midwest Wednesday, gusty winds and more rainfall will impact Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Portions of the east-central Plains and Western Midwest will see pop-up showers and storms later Wednesday afternoon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 9, 2024 |

Colorado Dairy Worker Becomes Fourth Human Case of HPAI Public health officials in Colorado announced last week that an adult male had tested positive for avian flu. Farm Policy News says the man reported mild symptoms from the infection, including pink eye. The man is a dairy farm employee who was exposed to infected cattle and recovered after antiviral treatment. Since avian influenza was first confirmed in cattle in March, the Colorado man became the fourth reported case of human infection. The other three people who tested positive also worked on dairy farms and successfully recovered. Colorado newspapers report the state now has the largest outbreak of bird flu among dairy cattle in the country. Colorado had more cases in the past month than any other state. The latest federal and state data says Colorado has identified 26 herds so far with cases of avian influenza. Of those, 22 were identified within the last month and are still in quarantine. *********************************************************************************** Summit Wants 50 Percent Pipeline Expansion After Approval Summit Carbon Solutions got approval from the Iowa state regulators for its carbon dioxide pipeline system it wants to build in the state. Summit wants to move forward with expansion requests for that system beginning in late August. Documents filed with the Iowa Utilities Commission show proposed public informational meeting dates for 23 counties that would take about four weeks to complete. The first meeting would be on August 26. The company must hold those meetings in the affected counties before it can negotiate with landowners for easements and file petitions for permits to build the extensions. The 14 proposed offshoots to additional ethanol plants from Summit’s initial proposal would increase the system size in Iowa by about 341 miles, or 50 percent. Summit can’t start laying pipe in Iowa until it obtains permits in the Dakotas. The company can use eminent domain in Iowa to force agreements with unwilling landowners. *********************************************************************************** Hurricane Beryl Makes Landfall in Texas Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas early on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour. “People in urban and rural areas along the path of Beryl’s track shouldn’t let their guard down this week,” says AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. “Beryl will bring a risk of tornadoes as far away as Ohio, and downpours from the hurricane could also cause flash flooding as far north as Detroit, more than 1,100 miles from where Beryl made landfall in Texas.” The powerful winds and rough surf from Beryl pushed several feet of storm surge into the coastal areas early Monday, flooding roads and blocking access to several shoreline areas. “The most intense rainfall will occur near the storm’s landfall location along the east-central Texas coast,” says AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys. The wind knocked out power to over two million homes and businesses on Monday. *********************************************************************************** One Million Acres of Corn Hurt by Flooding Parts of Nebraska, South Dakota, and Iowa are struggling with the aftermath of flooding while still fighting a swollen Missouri River. Ag Web Dot Com says the Mississippi River is facing flood threats as well. Dr. Michael Cordonnier of Soybean and Corn Advisor says it’s possible that up to one million acres of corn will be lost due to flooding. He thinks harvested corn acres will be under 91 percent of plantings this year, down from an average of 91.3 percent. At this stage, corn acres won’t get replanted. It’s also a risky proposition to replant soybeans this late as they would flower while the crop is in early development, resulting in low yield potential. High river levels along the Missouri River are a concern with more rain in the forecast over the next ten days. As many as 18 gauges along the Mississippi River are at major flood stage. ********************************************************************************** Communicating With Farmers Under Stress Webinar in August The Penn State University Extension Service is holding a webinar titled “Communicating With Farmers Under Stress.” The event is aimed at helping participants learn the signs of stress and how to help. It’s scheduled for 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET on August 6, 2024. The program is designed for agriculture industry professionals, loan officers, family members of farmers, and concerned citizens. The session will cover how to communicate with and respond to farmers and their family members when they need assistance. The webinar will help participants learn to build awareness of the stressors affecting farmers and their families and to recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety and the warning signs of suicide. The webinar is free, but attendees must register before the webinar starts to get the access link. For more information or to sign up, go to the Penn State Extension website at extension.psu.edu, or call 877-345-0691. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent The United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1, 2024, was 74.5 million head. That number is up one percent from June 1, 2023, and up slightly from March 1, 2024. The breeding inventory, at 6.01 million head, was three percent lower than last year and slightly lower than the previous quarter. The market hog inventory, at 68.5 million head, was up two percent from 2023, and up slightly from last quarter. The March-May 2024 pig crop, at 34 million head, was up two percent from 2023. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 2.94 million head, up slightly from 2023. The sows farrowed during the quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. The average number of pigs per litter was 11.56 for March-May, compared to 11.36 last year. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow during June-August, down three percent from actual farrowings last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 9, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports due out Tuesday, but traders may be thinking ahead to Thursday when the Labor Department releases its morning report on consumer prices in June or to Friday when USDA has its next WASDE report. Traders will keep track of what used to be Tropical Storm Beryl as it brings rain to the Eastern Corn Belt. Weather Tropical Depression Beryl will continue to move across the Central Mississippi Valley and enter the Eastern Midwest Tuesday, providing areas of severe storms and heavy rainfall from southeast Missouri into Ohio.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 8, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Beryl Barrels in, WASDE Friday 1. Hurricane and floods: As of early Sunday morning, Tropical Storm Beryl was forecast to intensify as a hurricane again as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico, especially right before landfall early Monday morning on the Texas coastline. The National Weather Service stated after it moves inland, Beryl will accelerate farther northeastward and become a post-tropical cyclone. Heavy rainfall of 5-10 inches is expected, with localized amounts up to 15 inches, across parts of mid to upper Texas Gulf Coast and eastern Texas starting Sunday through Monday night, leading to flooding concerns. Beryl's rainfall is then projected Monday into Tuesday to be 3-5 inches for parts of the Lower and Middle Mississippi Valley. The exact track is a bit uncertain for this week, although at this time Beryl appears to then go through the Ohio River Valley and then the northeast. Depending on the path, the National Weather Service said this could lead to flash flooding in areas of the Corn Belt that already had several inches of rain in the last few days, or have a more heavy impact on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and tributaries. Southern portions of the Missouri River and tributaries are already continuing to rise as floodwaters move south from the Dakota/Minnesota and Nebraska/Iowa areas. Meanwhile, much of the West is under heat advisories or excessive heat warnings, with scorching triple-digit temperatures lasting into early this week. Hot weather is forecast to spread through the week across the northern tier of states while the South-Central stays on the milder end of temperatures. 2.Strategy updates delayed: Due to the Independence Day holiday schedule, which delayed the CFTC Commitment of Traders report, the DTN Six Factors Strategies will get their full weekly update Monday afternoon. That CFTC data is a critical piece of our tracking of noncommercial traders, or "specs" activity, which is one of the six key market factors in our analysis. Don't have access to our Six Factors view? Become a DTN subscriber here: 3. WASDE Friday: July 12 is the July Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Watch midweek for our preview of the reports, as soon as market analyst expectations reports are in. There we'll review the numbers traders expect to see and add our own analysis. WASDE report coverage begins Friday right after the 11 a.m. reports release, and we'll have updates throughout the morning. Our free webinar on the reports, featuring DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman, goes live at 12:30 p.m. 4. Crop Progress Monday: We'll pay special attention to this Monday's USDA NASS weekly Crop Progress report to see how rains, dryness and flooding have affected various crops, and we'll also see the latest on the 2024 wheat harvest. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday we'll see the 9 a.m. release of Grain Inspections. At 10 a.m. we expect the Survey of Consumer Expectations, followed by 2 p.m. release of Consumer Credit and U.S. Ag Trade Update from ERS. At 2:30 p.m., the delayed CFTC Commitment of Traders report is out (with our Six Factors Strategies update soon following). At 3 p.m. we'll have the USDA weekly Crop Progress report, with our analysis of that soon after. There are no official economic or markets reports Tuesday. Wednesday sees 9:30 a.m. Wholesale Inventories and the EIA Weekly Petroleum Status report, including ethanol production and stocks. At 2 p.m. we'll see latest Broiler Hatchery numbers. Thursday markets will reflect on 7:30 a.m. Grain Export Sales, Initial Jobless Claims, Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI. At 10:30 a.m., the Weekly Economic Index hits. At 1 p.m. we'll see monthly U.S. Federal Budget numbers. Friday starts with 7:30 a.m. release of Producer Price Index (PPI) and the Core CPI. At 9 a.m. we'll see the Consumer Sentiment report. At 11 a.m., the USDA Crop Production report and July WASDE is out, followed by 2:30 p.m. release of the CFTC's Commitment of Traders report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 8, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts as the U.S. corn crop gets closer to pollination time. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. The latest week of CFTC data will be released at 2:30 p.m. CDT. Weather Hurricane Beryl made landfall between Corpus Christi and Houston, Texas, early Monday morning and is expected to quickly weaken as it moves north. Eventually, the remnants of the storm will reach across the Lower Mississippi Valley later Monday, providing areas of heavy rainfall to Arkansas and Louisiana.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 5, 2024 |

More Reaction to USDA FMMO Modernization Proposal USDA proposed amendments to all 11 Federal Milk Marketing Orders, and national ag groups shared their reaction, including the American Farm Bureau. President Zippy Duvall says they’ve called for FMMO reform since 2021 and convened a successful first-of-its-kind industry-wide forum in 2022. “We’re pleased with the intent to return the Class 1 skim milk prices to the “higher-of” formula as we wanted,” Duvall says. Farm Bureau is disappointed in changes benefiting processors without regard for struggling dairy producers. Elsewhere, FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative in Madison, Wisconsin, says much of the reform the co-op advocated for appears in USDA’s recommendations. “What we’ve seen shows USDA has acknowledged what dairy farmers, cooperatives, and others have asked them to address for years,” says Sarah Sarbacker, director of communications and marketing. Gregg Doud, President of the National Milk Producers Federation, says not every detail is exactly what they wanted, but “we knew that would be the case.” *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Closing its Iowa Facility Smithfield Foods will close its Altoona, Iowa, ham boning facility and consolidate the production volume at other locations to improve the efficiency of its manufacturing platform. Smithfield says it will provide transition assistance to the 314 employees at the facility who will be affected by the closure. The company will meet with employees individually to provide additional details about the transition plans, including severance and potential employment opportunities with Smithfield. “We appreciate the great work our Altoona employees have done over the years and are committed to supporting every employee through the transition,” says Doug Sutton, chief manufacturing officer at Smithfield Foods. “We’ve been successful in retaining many of our people in positions with Smithfield during previous consolidations and will provide information about opportunities at other Smithfield locations.” Production from Smithfield’s Altoona facility will be consolidated into existing company facilities in Monmouth, Illinois, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Crete, Nebraska. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Up One Percent The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1 was 74.5 million head. USDA says that was up one percent from June 1, 2023, and up slightly from March 1, 2024. Breeding inventory, at 6.01 million head, was down three percent from last year and down slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 68.5 million head, was up two percent from last year and up slightly from last quarter. The March-May 2024 pig crop, at 34 million head, was up two percent from 2023. Sows farrowing during that period totaled 2.94 million head, up slightly from 2023. The sows farrowed during this quarter represented 49 percent of the breeding herd. The average number of pigs per litter was 11.56 for March-May, compared to 11.36 last year. U.S. producers intend to have 2.96 million sows farrow from June-August, down three percent from actual farrowings during the same time in 2023. *********************************************************************************** AEM Launches Manufacturing Challenge Game The Association of Equipment Manufacturers embarked on its largest public engagement initiative in 130 years by introducing the “Manufacturing Challenge” on its “Manufacturing Express” bus tour. It’s an online video game that invites participants to tackle industry-themed questions for a chance to win prizes, including the grand prize of a Ford F-150. The game and the chance to win the grand prize are available to anyone in the continental U.S. who visits manufacturingexpress.org. “The Manufacturing Express tour will visit 80 communities at equipment manufacturing sites, showcasing the contributions of our industry’s workers to local economies and national prosperity,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. “The tour will engage local and regional policymakers to spotlight bipartisan policies crucial for supporting equipment manufacturing companies, their 2.3 million employees, and the industry’s annual $316 billion contribution to the U.S. economy.” The tour began on July 1 in Iowa and finishes in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in November. ********************************************************************************** Moderna Receives HHS Grant to Develop Human H5N1 Vaccine Moderna will get 176 million dollars in federal funding from the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a human vaccine against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The grant follows outbreaks of the virus in dairy cattle throughout several states. The U.S. has documented three cases of humans with bird flu so far this year, and all had regular contact with dairy cattle. As of this month, over 130 herds in 12 states have been infected by the H5N1 virus. “We’ve successfully taken lessons learned during COVID-19 and used them to better prepare for future public health crises,” says HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra (bah-SEHR-ah). “As a part of that, we continue to develop new vaccines and other tools to help address influenza and bolster our pandemic response capabilities.” HHS also says the funding was made available through the federal-level Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle and allows Moderna to enhance vaccine response capability. *********************************************************************************** USDA Cuts Brazil Soybean Outlook Soybean production in Brazil, the world’s largest exporter, was revised downward by the USDA’s attaché office in Brazil after flooding in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Successful Farming says about 180 people were killed, and roughly 2.4 million were affected by the flooding in southern Brazil. Fields were underwater for weeks after the floods that started in April. Production in the 2023-2024 marketing year is now forecast at 150 million metric tons, a drop of two percent from the previous report. Flooding in the states of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Parana, and Sao Paulo also contributed to the reduction. The total planted area for soybeans in Brazil in the current marketing year is projected at 113.2 million acres (45.8 million hectares), one percent higher than the previous outlook. CONAB, Brazil’s National Supply Company, forecast a planted area of 46 million hectares last month, and Agroconsult expected 46.4 million hectares.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 5, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as employment data from the U.S. Labor Department. One day after the Independence Day holiday, U.S. grain and livestock futures resume trading at 8:30 a.m. CDT and will have their normal closing times. CFTC data, normally released on Friday afternoon, will not be issued until Monday afternoon. Weather A system moving through the Midwest is pushing a front from the Ohio Valley down into the Delta and Southeast for Friday and scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast over a wide area due to it. A system moving through the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains will bring more isolated showers and storms through. Milder air is being dragged southward and eliminating the extensive heat we have seen over the last few days across the southern tier while heat is building up in the West.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 3, 2024 |

Farmer Sentiment Drifts Lower in June Farmer sentiment lowered in June as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reading of 105 was three points below May’s level. The overall drop in sentiment was due to a five-point drop in the Index of Future Expectations, which dropped to 112, while the June Current Conditions Index increased to 90, one point higher than the May index. High input costs, the risk of lower prices for their products, and rising interest rates continue to weigh on farmer sentiment. The impact of rising interest rates on their farms has become a bigger concern for producers in recent months. Interest rates and high breakeven levels combined with concerns that crop and livestock prices could weaken are holding back producer sentiment and making producers cautious about making large investments. The Farm Capital Investments Index dropped by three points to a reading of 132. The Long-Term Farmland Value Index dropped seven points. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Proposed Updates to FMMOs The USDA released updates to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The 332-page proposal released on Monday would restore a rule that makes the Class 1 milk price the higher-of the price of Class 3 and Class 4 for a month. After an initial reading of the proposal, the National Milk Producers Federation reacted positively. “We’re heartened that much of what we proposed after more than two years of policy development, and another year of testimony and explanation, is reflected in USDA’s recommended FMMO modernization plan,” says NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “Crafting an effective milk-pricing system for farmers is complex and requires a careful balance.” He also says USDA’s plan acknowledges that complexity, and while it doesn’t match the Federation’s proposal in every detail, Doud says it looks largely in keeping with the comprehensive approach painstakingly determined by the work of dairy farmers and their cooperatives over the past three years. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Attend the 2024 Beef Leaders Institute From pasture to plate, it takes multiple links in the value chain to bring Americans the hamburgers they throw on the grill this Fourth of July. Each link is integral to the success of others, one of many important takeaways for the 25 Angus producers selected to attend the 2024 Beef Leaders Institute. The American Angus Association and Certified Angus Beef host the annual program to develop young cattlemen and women as industry leaders. “Sometimes producers get so focused on raising high-quality cattle that it can prevent them from having a better understanding of how they impact every step along the way to the consumer,” says Kara Lee, director of producer engagement at Certified Angus Beef. “They’re the beginning of the food chain.” The five-day tour started at the American Angus Association in St. Joseph, Missouri, and traveled to six states before finishing at the Certified Angus Beef headquarters in Ohio. *********************************************************************************** Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer Women are responsible for roughly half of the world’s food production. The United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives the world a chance to highlight and celebrate the incredibly important role women play in ensuring global food security. It’s a time to underscore and address the various social and economic challenges that women in agriculture face worldwide. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor says they’re proud of the agency’s role in leading efforts to introduce and generate support for the resolution that was co-sponsored by 123 other nations. It was passed by the U.N. General Assembly in May. “This marked the first time in history that the United States was the lead sponsor of an ‘international year’ at the U.N., demonstrating just how important the role of women in agriculture is to our department, nation, and the world,” Taylor says. ********************************************************************************** Unique Program Pays Illinois Farmers to Improve Soil Health American Farmland Trust and ADM are launching the next season of a program that supports Illinois farmers and the environment. The ADM re:generations™ Program in Illinois encourages farmers to incorporate regenerative agriculture practices into their operations while offering financial incentives for doing so. Enrollment begins in May. The ADM re:generations™ program continues offering flexible contracts to farmers who are willing to adopt cover crops, no-till, and-or provide data to calculate carbon-intensity scores. The program provides payments to farmers who enroll in the program, and carbon assets generated from participation are being claimed by ADM. Farmers can enroll new practice acres as well as previous practice acres. In 2023, AFT and ADM had a very successful year, surpassing their enrollment goal of 225,000 acres enrolled in cover crops throughout the state. The companies also enrolled 630,000 acres in emissions scoring. Enrollment is open and more information is available at farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Mexico to Drop Plan to Cut Yellow Corn Imports The incoming government in Mexico will discard a key goal of the previous administration to reduce yellow corn imports and achieve self-sufficiency in yellow corn production. Investing Dot Com says the incoming ag minister, Julio Berdegue, says Mexico will focus on maintaining self-sufficiency in the white corn that’s commonly used in tortillas, a Mexican dietary staple. The policy of former president Lopez Obrador aimed to dramatically reduce the imports of yellow corn, most of which comes from the U.S, and boost local production instead. Lopez Obrador wanted to limit the use of genetically modified corn, sparking a trade dispute with the U.S. “Our objective is not to reduce imports but to produce more,” says Berdegue. “Our goal in this six-year term is not self-sufficiency in yellow corn.” Mexico’s appetite for meat is growing, leading to an Increasing demand for corn in the livestock sector, and will mean large imports of yellow corn.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 3, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. weekly jobless claims and the U.S. trade deficit will be out at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by May U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. and the natural gas storage report is at noon. U.S. stock market exchanges close early, at 12:15 p.m. CDT, but grain and livestock futures close at their normal times ahead of Thursday's Independence Day holiday. Minutes from the latest Fed meeting will be released at 1 p.m. CDT. Weather A front that has produced some areas of heavier rain over the western Corn Belt earlier this week is shifting toward the Ohio River for Wednesday. More rounds of showers and thunderstorms are forecast to develop along the front. The next storm system is quickly entering the Plains and will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms of its own, especially across the northern half of the region. Both areas are watching out for some severe weather later Wednesday, but the areas around western Nebraska have a higher risk.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 2, 2024 |

Thirty Million Farm Acres Abandoned Since 1986 In 2022, a University of Wisconsin study claimed that U.S. farmers had converted several million acres of pristine grassland and other “semi-natural areas” to cropland. Researcher Tyler Lark said that was in response to the Renewable Fuel Standard and ethanol production. Two years later, another study by Lark shows a different result. Using satellite imagery from the 2022 study, the newest one in March showed that between 1986 and 2018, over 30 million acres of cropland were abandoned and transitioned into grassland, permanent pasture, forest, shrub land, wetlands, or urban areas. That timeframe encompasses a period of rapid growth in ethanol production. The new study concluded that among the abandoned croplands, 53 percent changed to grassland and pasture, 18 percent to shrub land and forest, eight percent to wetlands, and just five percent converted to urban-suburban land. The Dakotas, Kansas, and Montana saw some of the highest land conversion rates in the country. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow Talks About the SNAP Payment Error Rate Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), chair of the Senate Ag Committee, released a statement on the payment error rate for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “While states faced many challenges ensuring access to SNAP during COVID and unwinding temporary pandemic flexibilities and benefits, the national error rate reported recently is unacceptable,” she says. “The SNAP payment error rate measures the accuracy of SNAP benefits paid and eligibility determinations by states, not fraud.” She also says, in other words, it’s about accuracy and not fraud. “It’s critical that the program is accurate to protect program integrity and ensure people receive the assistance they need to put food on the table,” Stabenow adds. “SNAP is the foundation of the safety net for nearly 42 million Americans, providing about six dollars a day to help them buy food to feed their families.” She also says SNAP quality control was strengthened in the 2018 Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Donates Pork to Help in Northwest Iowa Smithfield Foods delivered 34,000 pounds of pork to Rock Valley, Iowa, to provide free, restaurant-quality meals to victims, first responders, and volunteers impacted by severe flooding in Northwest Iowa. Smithfield, with more than 600 employees in nearby Sioux Center and Orange City, Iowa, donated items like loins, ribs, and pork chops that will provide over 140,000 servings of protein. “Recent catastrophic flooding has left many of our Northwest Iowa neighbors without basic necessities like electricity, drinking water, and food,” says Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. “By partnering with a non-profit like Mercy Chefs, we’re able to provide support and hope for our neighbors in times of need as the community continues to recover from storm damage.” Mercy Chef’s mobile kitchen will serve restaurant-quality meals to anyone in need in the Rock Valley community. The team will also distribute meals to those unable to make it there. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open For Bright Future Fund Grants American Farmland Trust has begun accepting applications to help farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer, permanently protect farmland, or adopt regenerative ag practices. AFT’s Brighter Future Fund’s “National Grant for Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers” provides grants of up to $5,000 per project. The grant focuses its support of beginning, socially disadvantaged, limited resource, women, and veteran farmers and ranchers to support greater equity and opportunities for all in agriculture. In 2024, the grant program will continue to fund farmers and ranchers nationwide, with additional support available to those affected by the Smokehouse Creek Wildfire in Texas and expanded support in New York and New England. “We deeply appreciate our many supporters, including corporate, individuals, and AFT members that all made it possible for us to help farmers across the nation,” says Ashley Brucker of AFT. “These grants inspire a ripple effect of enriching families and entire communities.” ********************************************************************************** Dairy FARM Program Releases Updates The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program released new versions of the Animal Care and Workforce Development Programs. The new standards refine, update, and improve agriculture-leading benchmarks for animal care and workforce best practices. “This summer is an opportunity to showcase FARM’s commitment to continuous improvement,” says Emily Yeiser (EYE-ser) Stepp, executive director of FARM, an industry collaboration managed by the National Milk Producers Federation. Formally reviewed every three years, the Animal Care and Workforce Development program areas underwent revisions to ensure appropriate standards and processes are conducted via FARM’s second-party evaluations. Animal Care Version Five updates focus on refining and clarifying previous standards surrounding euthanasia, fitness for transport, calf management, and continuing education. Workforce Development Version Two updates the evaluation tool used to assess and encourage the adoption of HR and safety best practices. Environmental Stewardship Version Three will launch this summer and include a new greenhouse gas model. *********************************************************************************** Safety When Grilling and Smoking on the Fourth of July On July Fourth, the aroma of barbecue will fill the air as people come together to celebrate with quintessential American cooking pastimes: grilling and smoking meat. Food is a big part of celebrating the Fourth, aside from the fireworks. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is asking everyone to take the proper precautions during food prep. Thaw the meat or poultry first. Marinate your protein in the refrigerator. Do not marinate on the counter. Keep the raw meat and poultry separated. Use different cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and poultry. Do the same thing when the food is fully cooked. Keep the smoker and grill at a safe temperature. Cook the meats to a safe internal temperature as measured by a food thermometer. Cook all raw beef, pork, lamb, veal steaks, chops, and roasts to a minimum internal temp of 145 F before removing from the heat source.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 2, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports on Tuesday's docket, but traders may pay attention to the latest weather forecasts as more rain and chances for severe weather threaten the northwestern Corn Belt again. Wednesday will have several reports ahead of the Independence Day holiday on Thursday. Weather A system moving through Canada is pushing a cold front into the Corn Belt, laying down from Kansas into Wisconsin by Tuesday evening. Thunderstorms from Monday night should diminish as they move east into the Great Lakes Tuesday morning but redevelop Tuesday afternoon and evening with more rounds of heavy rain possible, especially around Iowa. Severe storms will be possible as well, with the greatest risk around southern Iowa and northern Missouri. It will remain hot across the South and Southeast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Cattle Producers Celebrate Supreme Court Decision The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision that reins in the legal concept of Chevron deference and will reduce overreaching regulations from federal agencies that lack congressional authority. “Elected officials in Congress should make laws, not un-elected bureaucrats at federal agencies,” says NCBA President Mark Eisele (EYES-lee). “Cattle producers have experienced numerous instances of federal agencies enacting overreaching regulations on our farms and ranches, exceeding their authority granted by Congress.” Eisele is also grateful that the Supreme Court is reining in these federal agencies and putting power back in the hands of those elected to represent citizens in Washington. While the case decided by the Supreme Court didn’t directly involve cattle production, it did challenge the Chevron deference, which gives federal agencies the authority to interpret statutes they consider vague. NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says Congress has ceded too much authority to un-elected bureaucrats in recent decades. *********************************************************************************** Planted Acreage Report Shows Less Corn, More Soybeans The USDA released its June Planted Acreage Report with some caveats. U.S. farmers still have 3.36 million acres of corn to plant and 12.8 million soybean acres. Corn planted area for all purposes is currently estimated at 91.5 million acres, down three percent, or three million acres, from last year. Soybean planted area for 2024 is estimated at 86.1 million acres, up three percent from 2023. The all-wheat planted area for 2024 is estimated at 47.2 million acres, down five percent from last year. The 2024 winter wheat planted area, at 33.8 million acres, is down eight percent from last year and one percent from the previous estimate. Of this total, about 24.1 million acres are Hard Red Winter, 6.14 million acres are Soft Red Winter, and 3.59 million acres are white winter. The all-cotton planted area for 2024 is estimated to be 11.7 million acres, up 14 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Grain Stocks Reports USDA’s June Grain Stocks Report shows corn stocks in all positions on June 1, 2024, totaled 4.99 billion bushels, up 22 percent from June 1, 2023. Of the total stocks, 3.03 billion bushels are stored on farms, 37 percent higher than last year. Off-farm stocks hit 1.97 billion bushels, four percent higher than in 2023. Soybeans in all positions on June 1 totaled 970 million bushels, up 22 percent from June 1, 2023. On-farm stocks were up 44 percent from last year at 466 million bushels. Off-farm stocks, at 504 million, are up six percent from last year. Old crop all wheat stored in all positions totaled 702 million bushels, up 23 percent over 2023. On-farm stocks are estimated at 139 million bushels, up 12 percent from last year. Old crop Durum wheat stocks in all positions on June 1 totaled 21.1 million bushels, down 24 percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** Survey Shows Americans’ Renewable Energy Support is Declining A Pew Research Center survey shows some Americans are driving a decline in America’s support for renewable energy. While solar and wind power remain popular, support for expanding them is dropping. In 2020, solar expansion had the backing of 90 percent of the people surveyed, and that’s now down to 78 percent. Wind has seen a similar dip, from 83 percent in 2020 to 72 percent now. “Although broad public support for renewable energy is still there, the breadth of that support is less widespread than it was four years ago, or even one year ago,” says Alec Tyson, the report’s lead author and associate director of research at Pew. The Pew report, titled, “How Americans View National, Local, and Personal Energy Choices,” shows tempered interest in EVs. Survey respondents are showing reluctance to embrace initiatives like phasing out gas-powered vehicles. Three in ten Americans would consider buying an EV. ********************************************************************************** NCGA: USTR Makes Strong Case in Trade Dispute Officials from the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office hammered arguments made by Mexican representatives during oral arguments about Mexico’s ban on imports of genetically modified corn used in some food products. The ban was issued in early 2023. USTR filed a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement over the issue in August of that year. “The science overwhelmingly shows that genetically modified corn is safe for consumers and doesn’t harm native plants,” says National Corn Growers Association President Harold Wolle (WOOL-lee). “U.S. officials did a great job of making their case, and more importantly, they successfully argued that the Mexican government doesn’t have the scientific evidence to support its actions or claims.” During the hearing, U.S. officials argued that Mexico didn’t conduct a risk assessment to support its claims and that the documentation provided was over 20 years old. They also said Mexico’s regulatory agencies previously determined that GMO corn is safe. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expanding Specialty Crop and Organic Insurance Options The USDA is expanding crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers beginning with the 2025 crop year. USDA’s Risk Management Agency is expanding coverage options by allowing enterprise units by organic farming practice, adding enterprise-unit eligibility for several crops, and making additional policy updates. This is the first of several announcements this summer, which will include the expansion of the shellfish policy in the Northeast and new coverage for grape growers in the West and beyond. These expansions and other improvements build on other recent RMA efforts to better serve specialty crop producers and reach a broader group of producers. “The Risk Management Agency is excited to expand coverage options for specialty and organic growers, including the availability of enterprise and optional units for many producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Expanding our coverage options gives producers more opportunities to manage their risks, and we’ll have more announcements soon.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - More Wet Weather, Cyberattack Recovery, Holiday Market Break 1. Independence Day market holiday: U.S. Markets will be closed Thursday; we'll resume market coverage, including our daily videos, early Friday morning. Canadian markets also will be closed on Canada Day on July 1. 2. Flooding updates, hurricane develops: More rain is expected through the week, which may be bad for areas already dealing with flooding, but good for areas that had been dry. DTN models increase rain chances with every fresh run. . We're also watching what might be the U.S. impact of the first hurricane of the season in the Atlantic Ocean -- Hurricane Beryl rapidly strengthened from a tropical depression on Friday to a Category 3 hurricane by Saturday evening as it heads towards the Caribbean. The major hurricane is currently forecast by the National Hurricane Center to become an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 hurricane when it hits the Windward Islands. 3. More on SCOTUS rulings: We'll continue to dig into how the latest Supreme Court decisions may influence farm and agricultural interests. 4. Cyberattack recovery: We're continuing to follow the slow recovery of thousands of automobile and farm equipment dealerships in the U.S. and Canada that were affected when CDK Global was hit with a ransomware cyberattack on June 19. The dealerships use CDK's software system in their businesses. Farmers were affected after these companies were forced to shut down their computers after the attack and do everything manually temporarily. 5. Economic reports to watch: Monday, at 8:45 a.m. the S&P Manufacturing PMI is out. At 9 a.m., Construction Spending and ISM Manufacturing reports hit. Grain Inspections come out at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. brings the Grain Crushings and Co-products, and Fats and Oils report. At 3 p.m. we'll have the USDA Nass Crop Progress Report, where many will be looking at crop conditions from the areas of flooding and heavy rainfall recently. Tuesday is a light day, with only the 9 a.m. Job Openings report to consider. Wednesday makes up for that, starting with the 7:15 a.m. ADP Employment figures, 7:30 a.m. Initial Jobless Claims and U.S. Trade Deficit reports. At 8:45 a.m. the S&P Services PMI is out, followed by 9 a.m. release of Factory Orders. At 9:30 a.m. we'll see the EIA Weekly Petroleum Status, including ethanol numbers. At 1 p.m. there is the anticipated release of the Minutes of June FMOC (Fed) meeting. At 3 p.m. we'll see the latest Broiler Hatchery and Dairy Products numbers. Thursday, July 4, there are no economics reports and markets are closed. Friday hopefully everyone rejoins the markets with all fingers accounted for. At 7:30 a.m. we'll have Grain Export Sales, U.S. Unemployment, Unemployment Rate and Hourly Wages figures. At 2:30 p.m. we'd normally see CFTC Commitment of Traders reports, but that may be delayed until Monday due to the holiday break. The weekly update of U.S. Drought Monitor Map could also be delayed.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 1, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, manufacturing indices will be reported from around the globe early Monday with the U.S. index for June due out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by NASS's Fats and Oils report at 2 p.m. and the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Markets in Canada are closed for Canada Day. Weather A storm system moving into the Northern Plains on Monday is already producing areas of showers and thunderstorms across portions of the Western Corn Belt. A lot of the storms will weaken this morning but will redevelop this afternoon and evening closer to the main cold front. Severe weather and areas of heavy rain are forecast, with southern Nebraska having the best chance for both Monday. Highs: 60s/70s Canadian Prairies; 70s/80s Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, Midwest; 80s/90s Central Plains, Delta, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 28, 2024 |

Rabobank: Consumers Battle Fatigue Over Food Prices Rabobank’s 2024 July 4th Barbecue Index reached an unprecedented level this year. Hosting a ten-person barbecue on the Fourth of July will cost $99, the highest total on record. This year, beef, beer, soda, and lettuce comprise 64 percent of the total cost. With food prices unlikely to reverse course, Rabobank says this may be the last time we’ll see a summer cookout for ten cost less than $100. Food inflation jumped 25 percent from 2019 to the end of 2023. The additional inflation in the first half of 2024 has been the tipping point. “The consumer is waving the white flag on food inflation,” says Tom Bailey, senior consumer foods analyst at Rabobank. “With an added two percent in price hikes in 2024, coupled with the disparity between the cost of eating out and cooking at home at the widest point in history, we’re seeing heightened fatigue and frugality.” *********************************************************************************** CLA Stresses a Balanced Herbicide Strategy CropLife America sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency addressing the Office of Pesticide Program’s April update on the agency’s Draft Herbicide Strategy. It’s part of the EPA’s framework to meet its obligations under the Endangered Species Act. CLA’s letter lauds the agency’s issuance of the Draft Herbicide Strategy and the extent to which it reflects significant input from interested stakeholders. The letter also offers recommendations on how the Draft Herbicide Strategy can be successfully finalized and implemented. CLA emphasizes the necessity of pesticide use with the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats, urging EPA to take realistic farming practices into consideration. “Understanding the needs of our nation’s growers is imperative to the success of the ESA, and any mitigation put in place will only work if real-world implications of how we farm are considered,” says Alexandra Dunn, CLA President and CEO. “We want a practical and scientifically sound plan.” ********************************************************************************** USDA to Accept Expanded ELA Program Applications The USDA will begin accepting applications on Monday, July 1, for its updated Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). The goal is to provide financial assistance to eligible dairy producers who incur milk losses due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza infection in their dairy herds. The Farm Service Agency expanded ELAP through the rule-making process to assist with a portion of financial losses resulting from reduced milk production when cattle are removed from commercial milking in dairy herds having a confirmed positive H5N1 test. Positive tests must be confirmed through the National Veterinary Service Laboratories. “USDA remains committed to working with producers, state veterinarians, animal health professionals, and federal partners as we continue to detect the presence of H5N1 in dairy herds and take additional measures to contain the disease spread,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to providing the support needed to help producers recover.” *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Welcomes USDA Request for Information Clean Fuels Alliance America welcomed Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to the June Member Meeting this week. He announced a Request for Information regarding climate-smart ag practices for biofuel feedstocks. These practices can further lower the lifecycle carbon scores of advanced biofuels like biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. Vilsack says the agency is looking for information on crops, crop practices, and how they can be documented, certified, and traced. “We greatly appreciate acknowledging our industry’s need for both timely and accurate rules on climate-smart ag practices,” says Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels Vice President of Federal Affairs. “We also appreciate that the secretary understands the importance of having guidance for 45Z well in advance of January 1, 2025, so farmers, producers, and fuel customers have the certainty they need to continue to produce and use low-carbon biomass-based diesel.” Clean Fuels Alliance hosted 100 industry representatives this week. *********************************************************************************** Getting Consumers Cooking American Lamb The American Lamb Board remains focused on educating consumers about cooking lamb at home. Many lamb purchasers cite the lack of confidence in cooking lamb as a significant barrier when cooking lamb at home. Plus, consumers who purchase lamb to cook at home are more likely to reserve lamb for special occasions and holidays. ALB is helping make American Lamb a more mainstream at-home dinner choice through partnerships with two virtual cooking class programs. Kittch and Homemade are innovative new ways to reach and inspire consumers to cook American Lamb at home for weeknight dinners. “We know lamb purchasers are motivated to buy lamb when they have access to easy-to-follow recipes,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. “These new partnerships take that to a new level by providing both recipes and interactive online classes to let consumers prepare lamb dishes at home alongside chefs across the country.” For information, go to lambboard.com. *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Releases Continue to Decline on the Missouri River Inflows into the Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River near Omaha, Nebraska, have dropped to nearly 10,000 cubic feet per second. Current releases from Gavins Point are 20,000 CFS and are lowering to 16,000 CFS on Thursday. “We will reevaluate the conditions on Friday, June 28, and if inflows into the Gavins Point Dam from unregulated tributaries continue declining, we may have an option to lower the releases to 13,000 cubic feet per second to reduce the impacts downstream from Gavins Point,” says John Remus, chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Average daily inflows to Gavins Point in June are 32,000 CFS, with average daily releases from the Fort Randall Dam upstream making up 28,900 CFS of the inflows, leaving 3,100 coming in from tributaries and rainfall. The current pool elevation at Gavins Point is 1,207.8 feet and slowly declining. The average elevation for June is 1,206.1 feet.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 28, 2024 |

Friday Watch List Markets The PCE inflation index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as May reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending. At 11 a.m., USDA releases its Acreage and June 1 Grain Stocks reports followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system is moving through the Canadian Prairies and has wrapped up in the region, causing a band of heavy rain from Alberta through Manitoba and down through the northwestern Corn Belt since Thursday. That has caused some areas of heavier rainfall in portions of the northwestern Corn Belt that have been dealing with flooding. A wave of morning showers continues eastward, but the front to the system should produce more showers and thunderstorms there and into the southwestern Corn Belt later today and tonight, the latter of which could see some significant severe weather. A burst of colder air is moving in behind the front. Highs: 50s/60s Canadian Prairies; 60s/70s Northern Plains; 70s/80s Pacific Northwest, Midwest; 80s/90s Central Plains, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains, Delta.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 27, 2024 |

Iowa Approves Carbon Pipeline Project The Iowa Utilities Board granted approval for a proposed carbon pipeline project to begin in the state. That clears the way for Summit Carbon to build that segment of the pipeline that covers 688 miles in 29 Iowa counties. The board hasn’t yet granted a permit that would allow construction to begin. However, Summit can now use eminent domain to acquire the land they need to complete the project. The board issued a final 507-page decision and order. “After weighing a number of factors for and against Summit’s petition, the board found that the service provided by Summit Carbon will promote the public convenience and necessity,” the board wrote in the decision. Summit will be required to submit “numerous revised exhibits” before the board issues a permit and before construction begins. “The momentum will continue when we file our South Dakota permit application in early July,” says Summit CEO Lee Blank. *********************************************************************************** States to Begin Voluntary HPAI Testing on Dairy Farms The USDA says four states will begin voluntary pilot programs to test bulk milk tanks on dairy farms for bird flu. Louisiana Illuminator says the move is intended to help dairy farmers ship herds across state lines and make it simpler for public health officials to track any spread of the virus. Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Texas will be in the first round of voluntary participation, and other states are likely to follow. Eric Deeble, acting senior advisor for H5N1 response, says, “This list of participating states is just the beginning. It’s important for us to get these four states going so the other states could watch how the program works and gain additional confidence in the idea.” He also says the agency is in close conversations with about a dozen other states who are very interested in participating. Launching the pilot program is “an important step forward.” ********************************************************************************** Groups React to Latest Packers and Stockyards Rule U.S. agriculture groups reacted to the USDA’s latest proposed Packers and Stockyards rule titled “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets.” National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane calls the proposed rule a “direct attack” on cattle producer profitability. “By creating criteria that effectively deems any innovation or differentiation in the marketplace improper, USDA is sending a clear message that cattle producers should not derive any free market benefit but be paid one low price, regardless of quality, in the same of so-called fairness,” he says. National Chicken Council Interim President Gary Kushner says the latest rulemaking retreads a failed proposal from more than a decade ago, which was written by a plaintiff’s lawyer who made money suing poultry companies. “The current facelift to the ‘Harm to Competition’ rule would open the floodgates to frivolous and costly litigation,” Kushner says. “The proposal would inflict billions in economic harm.” *********************************************************************************** National Wheat Foundation Hosts Officials in a Farm Tour The National Wheat Foundation hosted a wheat farm tour this week for congressional staff and USDA employees. Wheat grower Eric Spates of Maryland gave visitors the chance to explore the farm, witness the wheat harvesting process, and listen to speakers who specialize in the ag industry. The discussion centered around crucial topics like risk management, conservation, pesticide programs, environmental issues, and what happens to wheat when it leaves the farm. “One of the Foundation’s main goals is educating people about wheat and farming,” says Bernard Peterson, Chairman of the National Wheat Foundation and a Kentucky farmer. “Wheat accounts for 20 percent of the calories consumed worldwide, so it’s a vital food crop and essential that everyone understands the complex issues that farmers face every day.” The objectives of the tour focused on strengthening participants’ appreciation for the intricacies of farming. Eric Spates is a dedicated board member of various farm organizations. *********************************************************************************** Flooding Will Impact the Agricultural Supply Chain Flooding in several northern states is a reminder that weather events impact crop growth and the ability to transport that crop. Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says the closure of roads and bridges will result in farmers and elevators having to incur expensive detours to access delivery locations. “One of the biggest examples of the impact of flooding on rail infrastructure is the destruction of the BNSF Railway bridge across the Big Sioux River near Sioux City, Iowa,” Steenhoek says. “This will require considerable time to replace.” Considerable soybeans and grain continue to move at this time of year. The flooding is occurring in regions with a number of soybean processing facilities, which operate year-round. The damage will clearly impact those facilities. Even if a farmer isn’t directly impacted by the damaged infrastructure, it will cost more to ship commodities to operating sections of the transportation network. *********************************************************************************** Groundbreaking for New Grape Improvement Center The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences hosted a groundbreaking for a new state-of-the-art grape research facility on the Cornell AgriTech campus. The over 70,000-square-foot facility will be named the National Grape Improvement Center and will house the ARS Grape Genetics Research Unit and ARS Plant Genetic Resources Unit. In addition, four Cornell grapevine research projects will move into the research facility. “Ag research conducted by USDA and Cornell University will both enhance U.S. grape production and ensure farmers are better able to fight the impacts of climate change,” says USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small. “Investing in the National Grape Improvement Center helps to maintain our national food security while also building a stronger and more resilient food system.” ARS and university employees will work to enhance grape production efficiency, profitability, and sustainability for the United States grape industry.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 27, 2024 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of first-quarter U.S. GDP, U.S. durable goods orders for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Stats Canada reports new planting estimates Thursday morning. The U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. USDA's hog and pigs inventory report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A front continues in the Southeast for Thursday, where some showers will be possible today. But the next big storm is moving into the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies where it is already producing areas of showers and thunderstorms down to the Texas Panhandle. Showers and thunderstorms will become more widespread in these areas later this afternoon and especially this evening, with a significant risk of severe weather and heavy rainfall. Highs: 60s/70s Pacific Northwest, Canadian Prairies; 70s/80s Midwest; 70s/90s Northern Plains; 80s/90s Central Plains, Delta, Southeast; 90s/100s Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 26, 2024 |

Clean Fuels Petitions EPA on RFS Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America filed a formal petition asking the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2024 and 2025. The agency set biomass-based diesel and overall advanced volumes significantly below the actual production of the fuels, ignoring available data on the rapid build-out of production capacity. The low volumes are discouraging production, sacrificing greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and undercutting the economic benefits intended under the program. “We warned the EPA that the no-growth rule they set would undercut investments, economic opportunities for the industry, and environmental benefits,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Clean Fuels. “We’re now asking the EPA to use the industry’s demonstrated production in 2023 as a baseline and allow additional growth in 2024 and 2025.” Clean Fuels is also asking the agency to set 2024 and 2025 biomass-based diesel volumes to 5.1 billion and 5.6 billion gallons, respectively. *********************************************************************************** Growmark Testing Biodiesel in Semi-Tractor Fleet Growmark has partnered with Optimus Technologies to test biodiesel in five of its semi-tractors. The move may be a potential pathway to transitioning its entire fleet to low-carbon fuels. The engine upgrades from Optimus ensure heavy-duty diesel engines operate dependably in all weather conditions on either biodiesel or traditional diesel. The Growmark fleet drives five million miles annually. The pilot with only five heavy-duty trucks is going to be significantly lower in carbon dioxide emissions and the other pollutants found in traditional diesel, plus it will help improve air quality in communities near busy trucking routes. The U.S. Department of Energy cites a life cycle analysis by the Argonne National Laboratory Study concluded that biodiesel emissions for 100 percent biodiesel are 74 percent lower than emissions from petroleum-based diesel. Optimus says it’s happy to partner with Growmark and show that decarbonization is financially and environmentally sustainable for heavy-duty fleets today. ********************************************************************************** USDA Rule Clarifies Unfair Practices The USDA announced new action to support a fairer, more competitive, and more resilient meat and poultry supply chain. USDA’s “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets” proposed rule would tackle longstanding challenges around interpretations of unfairness and competitive injury for the livestock, meat, and poultry sectors. The rule is designed to support farmers and growers and reduce food costs for consumers. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement during an event at the Center for American Progress showcasing the push to create more affordable and competitive agricultural markets. The event highlighted USDA’s wide-ranging progress to enhance the Department’s ability to enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act, including previous rulemaking and an enforcement partnership with the Department of Justice. “The proposed rule stands for clear and transparent standards so that markets function fairly and competitively for consumers and producers alike,” Vilsack says. “It’s designed to give farmers a fairer shake.” *********************************************************************************** Stabenow: Stop the Politics Around SNAP Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow says the only path to passing a bipartisan farm bill is holding together the farm and food coalition that’s formed the foundation of past farm bills. “However, recent attempts to fracture that coalition through misleading statistics and an inaccurate portrayal of how the farm bill works have stalled progress on negotiations and risks forcing another 2018 extension,” Stabenow says. She also points out that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is designed to respond to fluctuations in the economy. Recent figures show that nutrition spending decreased by 13 percent since fiscal year 2022. “Year-to-year changes in SNAP spending do not take away from funding for other farm bill programs,” she says. “Similarly, year-to-year changes in spending for crop insurance and commodity programs during disasters or economic downturns don’t take away funding from SNAP.” Stabenow also says it’s time to get real and pass a farm bill. *********************************************************************************** May Egg Production Drops Two Percent U.S. egg production totaled 9.1 billion during May 2024, down two percent from May 2023. Production included 7.81 billion table eggs and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 99.7 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during May totaled 372 million, down three percent from last year. May egg production per 100 layers was 2,450 eggs, up one percent from May 2023. Total layers in the U.S. on June 1 reached 371 million, down three percent from 2023. The 371 million layers consisted of 306 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 61.7 million producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.83 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. The rate of lay on June 1 was 78.9 eggs per 100 layers. Egg-type chicks hatched during May totaled 58.2 million, one percent below May 2023. Broiler-type chicks hatched during May totaled 860 million, up one percent from May 2023. *********************************************************************************** State Disasters Declared Due To Flooding The governors of Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota have all issued emergency declarations as heavy rains that began late last week flooded several rivers in the Upper Midwest. A large number of counties in southeastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota, and northwest Iowa saw rainfall amounts from Thursday through Saturday between five to eight inches. The National Weather Service says there are spots in the region that received as much as 15 inches. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds requested an expedited presidential disaster declaration. “We’re still in a very early response stage, but the projected damage is staggering,” Reynolds said. Two major railroads in the region were seeing bridge closures and track damage in the Iowa-Minnesota-South Dakota region. BNSF lost a bridge over the Big Sioux River between Iowa and South Dakota. It’s too early to determine crop damage, but most Missouri River bottom fields were already in standing water before the past deluge.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 26, 2024 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Weather remains a likely focus of grain traders, although we can't guarantee they're comprehending what they see. A report on U.S. new home sales in May at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday will be followed by U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Keep in mind, the report's finding of ethanol production is for last week, before widespread flooding erupted in the northwestern Corn Belt. Weather Clusters of showers and thunderstorms that developed on Tuesday continue across the Ozarks into the northern Delta early Wednesday. The storms developed on a cold front that continues to sag southward and will be located from Oklahoma up through the Northeast by Wednesday afternoon, when additional showers and thunderstorms should fire up, some of which may be severe again. The next system moving into the Pacific Northwest should fire up some showers and thunderstorms in the High Plains Wednesday afternoon as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 25, 2024 |

$25 Million to Help Expand Rural Internet Access USDA’s Rural Development Undersecretary, Dr. Basil Gooden, says the agency is making $25 million available through the Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The funding is intended to help local organizations, cooperatives, and Tribes expand affordable, high-speed internet projects in rural communities. The department is now accepting applications. “USDA is committed to making sure that people, no matter where they live, have high-speed internet,” says Undersecretary Gooden. “USDA is partnering with small towns, Tribes, local utilities, rural cooperatives, and private companies to increase access to this critical service, which will boost opportunities and build bright futures.” He also says that’s how you grow the economy not just in rural communities, but around the nation. The BTA program provides funding to help communities and organizations receive or deliver broadband technical assistance and training that will expand high-speed internet into rural and Tribal communities. Applicants must apply in one of two categories found at Grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** Rain Causing Concerns for U.S. Crops Rains in parts of the Midwest and intense heat in the East are causing significant concern for U.S. crops. The University of Illinois’ Farm Policy News says more wet weather continues to raise the fear of more flooding. In the Midwest, the focus is on too much rain that could result in flooded corn and soybean fields, especially in the upper Midwest. Floodwaters have risen in northwest Iowa, where 13 rivers overflowed their banks. Entire neighborhoods and whole towns have been evacuated, and Spencer, Iowa, imposed a curfew Sunday for the second straight night after flooding that surpassed the 1953 record. Reports says that northern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and northwest Iowa received eight times the typical average rainfall. And the forecast says more rain is on the way this week. Fields around Mankato, Minnesota, were planted, drowned out, drained, got replanted, and have now drowned out again. ********************************************************************************** Bird Flu Infects Two More Iowa Dairies Iowa officials have detected avian flu in cattle on two more Sioux County, Iowa, dairy farms. Successful Farming says that brings the total to eight in the last two weeks. The Iowa Department of Agriculture says one of the affected herds has about 500 cattle, and the other is much smaller, with just 45 animals. Sioux County has the largest number of dairy cattle in any Iowa county, with 40 licensed dairies. That means approximately one-fifth of those herds in the county have been infected by HPAI. Cows almost always recover from the virus within two weeks. The virus is often fatal for domestic birds and infected three Iowa poultry flocks this year, including a Sac County flock with 4.2 million egg-laying chickens in late May, as well as two turkey farms, one of which was affected last week. Entire flocks get culled to help keep the virus from spreading. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Studies Starting Salary for Ag Grads Between 2020 and 2025, there will be an estimated total of 59,400 annual job openings in the agricultural job sector. Purdue University doctoral student Joshua Strine authored a study on the average starting salary for agricultural graduates. The average posted starting salary in those five years reached a high of $63,945 in January 2023. The lowest was $42,247 in February 2023. More recently in the study, the average salary was $53,594 in January 2024. Multiple trends show up in the data. First, there was an increase in posted salaries from 2022 to 2023. The average salary of job openings in 2022 and 2023 were $49,373 and $56,147, respectively. Salaries were also higher in 2021 at $52,051. One possible explanation is the increased demand for employees as companies transitioned back to full operation after COVID-19. Companies may have had to increase the wages they were offering to recruit more at-home workers back into the office. *********************************************************************************** Cattle on Feed and Milk Production Down Slightly Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the U.S. for feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.6 million head on June 1. That number was slightly below June 1, 2023. Placements in feedlots during May totaled 2.05 million head, four percent above 2023. Feedlot placements were 1.98 million head. Fed cattle marketings in May reached 1.96 million head, slightly higher than in 2023. In another USDA report, milk production in the 24 major dairy-producing states during May totaled 18.9 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from May 2023. April’s revised production reached 18.3 billion pounds. Production per cow averaged 2,122 pounds for May, three pounds below May 2023. The number of milk cows on farms reached 8.89 million head, 52,000 less than in May 2023, but 5,000 more than April 2024. Total United States May milk production reached 19.7 billion pounds, down 0.9 percent from May 2023. *********************************************************************************** Army Corps Monitoring Minnesota Flooding The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively working to monitor flood conditions throughout the Upper Midwest, including in Minnesota, after heavy rains. The Engineers’ water managers currently have all the dam gates above the water from Lock and Dam 2 in Hastings, Minnesota, to Lock and Dam 10 in Guttenberg, Iowa. The gates are not needed to maintain the minimum nine feet of depth with the current conditions. “Because the recent rain events fell with the Minnesota River basin, the rain adds more water to the Mississippi River and will take several weeks to drain,” says Dan Fasching, St. Paul Corps of Engineers water manager. “Any additional rains during the next few weeks have the possibility to increase the flood risk.” Further south near La Crosse, Wisconsin, Corp officials closed Blackhawk Park on June 21 due to recent heavy rains and high river levels. For flooding info, visit usace.army.mil.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 25, 2024 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Grain traders that acted surprised to hear of weekend flooding Monday may want to check the news and weather a little closer Tuesday. Stats Canada reports on Canada's consumer prices Tuesday morning. An index of U.S. consumer confidence in May will be out at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's monthly cold storage report is set for 2 p.m. Weather A cold front is drifting south through the Corn Belt for Tuesday. Early severe thunderstorms from northern Illinois into Michigan will be watched to see if they can be maintained throughout the day. But additional showers and thunderstorms will develop along the front later Tuesday afternoon and evening from Nebraska to Michigan, which may continue south overnight into Wednesday. South of the front, it continues to be hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 24, 2024 |

Senators Want Answers on Cooking Oil Imports Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) are pressing the Biden administration on the steps it’s taking to address the recent surge of used cooking oil imports. Last year, the U.S. imported three billion pounds of used cooking oil, half of which came from China. That’s up from a total of 200 million pounds imported in 2020. The senators sent a letter to the EPA, USDA, the USTR’s Office, and Customs and Border Protection. They point out concerns by some in the renewable fuels industry that large amounts of imported UCO may be a blend of UCO with virgin vegetable oils such as palm oil, which is directly linked to deforestation in Southeast Asia. That would constitute fraudulent value distortion of the commodity designed to take advantage of tax incentives in addition to Renewable Identification Number (RIN) fraud under the RFS. They want to ensure the integrity of clean fuel policies. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan The USDA joined 20 agencies in releasing an updated Climate Adaptation Plan to ensure federal operations are increasingly resilient to climate change impacts. The updated adaptation plans advance the National Climate Resilience Framework, which helps to align climate resilience investments across the public and private sectors through common principles and opportunities for action to build a climate-resilient nation. Communities from coast to coast are experiencing the impacts of climate change through crop yields depleted by drought and other impacts like flooding and wildfires that have washed away roads, businesses, and homes in many areas. “USDA has taken a department-wide approach to consider the impacts of climate change on our mission delivery and those we serve,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “From USDA headquarters to field offices nationwide, these efforts enable USDA to support the agriculture and forestry sectors and diverse communities across the country as they face climate change.” ********************************************************************************** SAF Coalition Continues to Grow The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition welcomed ten new companies and organizations involved in the development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel into its membership. The new companies bring the membership count to more than 50. The new members include leaders in energy, aviation, aerospace, and SAF production. “We are excited to welcome this additional group of leading companies and organizations into our coalition,” says Allison Graab (Grahb), Executive director of the SAF Coalition. “The expansion of our membership shows the deep and growing support that SAF enjoys from many stakeholders, and together, we will continue advocating for federal policies that will support and increase SAF production.” The new companies include Honeywell, Shell, Southwest Airlines, and others. Since its founding in April, the nonprofit coalition has leveraged the collective strength of the SAF value chain to advocate for the incentives and policies necessary to promote U.S. competitiveness in the emerging SAF marketplace. *********************************************************************************** Animal Ag Leaders Explore New Facets of the Industry The third cohort of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture’s Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders met for in-person training in Topeka, Kansas. The leadership training included ten educational sessions featuring ranchers, butchers, cooks, and leadership experts. “The most recent meeting in Topeka was eye-opening for me and again drove home what many of us are fighting for. The preservation of agriculture with the injection of new technology for sustainability,” says Sarah Coleman, executive director of the Kentucky Horse Council. “Listening to the team at NextGen Cattle Company was an incredible reminder that the food animal industry is constantly honing their skills to create animals that can feed the world, as fiscally and ethically responsible as possible.” The leadership training course is sponsored by the United Soybean Board and Farm Credit. It was created by the NIAA to empower animal agriculture professionals to strengthen leadership development and industry collaboration. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Industry Group Releases Summer SWAG As the summertime cranks up, American Lamb producers want you to know it’s the perfect time to share American Lamb at fairs, festivals, and farmer’s markets. They’re thrilled to introduce new summertime SWAG items in the Shop on the Lamb Board website. These items are not just for display but a way for people to proudly promote American Lamb at all the hot summer events on the calendar. For example, the brand new “Ewe are my Sunshine” t-shirts are on sale at two for $30. The design is great for everyday events. “As direct marketers, we are always looking for cost-effective ways to promote our product at events, and utilizing the professionally curated marketing pieces on the Lamb Board site is a great way to amplify local marketing efforts,” says ALB Chairman Jeff Ebert. The new apron and recipe books are also a must-have for any grilling and cook-off competitions. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Inventories Increase The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output and stockpiles both rose in the seven days ending on June 14. Ethanol production increased to an average of 1.057 million barrels a day. The EIA report says that was up from 1.023 million barrels from the prior week. Output in the Midwest was reported at 998,000 barrels a day, up from 967,000 barrels a week earlier. Gulf Coast production increased to an average of 26,000 barrels per day from 25,000 the previous week. West Coast output jumped to 12,000 barrels daily from 10,000 the week before. East Coast output was steady at 12,000 barrels per day. The EIA says the Rocky Mountain region was the lone decliner, dropping to 10,000 barrels a day, on average, from 11,000 barrels the week before. Ethanol stockpiles in the week ending on June 14 increased to 23.617 million barrels, up from 23.22 million a week earlier.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 24, 2024 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts, especially looking at rain possibilities for the Eastern Corn Belt and reports of flooding in the northern Corn Belt. USDA's report of weekly export inspections is at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A system is moving through Canada, but its cold front is moving through the Northern Plains early Monday morning. The front will continue to push southeast into the Central Plains and Upper Midwest throughout the day. Lots of heat and humidity south of the front will be fuel for thunderstorms across the Upper Midwest especially Monday afternoon and evening. Severe weather will be possible with hail and strong wind gusts being likely in thunderstorms that do occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 21, 2024 |

Stabenow: Republican Farm Bill Framework Uses “Magic Math” Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chair of the Senate Ag Committee, released a statement after the Congressional Budget Office published its revised 10-year budget projections. “Today’s updated projections from the CBO prove what we’ve been saying all along. The House Republican bill is unpaid for, relying on magic math and wishful thinking,” she says. “In exchange for blocking USDA’s ability to provide real-time assistance to farmers through the CCC to address emergency challenges, House Republicans received only a small fraction of the $50 billion hole they need to fill to pay for the bill.” She also says her Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act is meaningful and responsible. “More importantly, it doesn’t fracture the farm and food coalition that is the foundation of every successful farm bill,” she adds. “I did the hard work of securing new resources outside the farm bill,” she says. “Now is the time to start negotiating.” *********************************************************************************** Dairy Co-op Wants Accurate Payment Provisions in the Farm Bill Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative announced efforts in partnering with several other dairy industry supporters to codify the protection of timely payments and accurate testing as legislative text in the next farm bill. The request to move these specific FMMO provisions into legislation was prompted by the uncertainty created when volumes of milk are de-pooled, leaving farmers outside of the FMMO and outside of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. This action aims to extend those protections, currently granted when a processor is pooled, to all farmers and processors regardless of their participation in the FMMO. “Only 70 percent of U.S. milk is covered by the FMMO today, which leaves farmers that produce those 68 billion pounds of milk outside the order and its protections,” says Tim Trotter, Edge CEO. “It’s time to ensure that all U.S. dairy farmers are granted the same confidence and assurance as those within the FMMO system.” ********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Alliance Files Lawsuit Against EPA Clean Fuels Alliance America asked the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals to review the EPA’s final Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles – Phase 3. In the final rule, the Environmental Protection Agency evaluated a range of alternative fuel and engine configurations for 2027-2032 heavy-duty vehicles. However, the agency specifically declined to consider biodiesel and renewable diesel in combination with existing engines th